bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spinal Epidural Hematomas in Fast Bowlers: Report of Two Unusual Cases
Authors: Khursheed Nayil , Makhdoomi Rumana , Tanki Humam , Wani Abrar
Published: October 2014

We report 2 cases of spinal epidural hematomas (SEDH) after a spell of fast bowling in 2 young boys. Both patients presented with spinal pain followed by weakness in both lower limbs. MRI of the spine revealed cervical SEDH in 1 patient and thoracic SEDH in the other. The authors want to highlight this peculiar mode of sports-related spinal injury. This type of injury has not been reported before.
Anatomical and Molecular Analyses of XY Ovaries from the African Pygmy Mouse Mus minutoides
Authors: Rahmoun Massilva , Perez Julie , Saunders Paul A. , Boizet-Bonhoure Brigitte , Wilhelm Dagmar , Poulat Francis , Veyrunes Frédéric
Published: October 2014

The African pygmy mouse Mus minutoides is characterized by the presence of a high proportion of fertile XY females in natural populations. This species displays 2 morphologically different X chromosomes: the ancestral X and a shorter one designated as X*, feminizing the X*Y individuals. This strongly suggests that in the presence of an X* chromosome, the male differentiation program is not activated despite a functional Y chromosome. In this study, we compared the histology of the adult ovaries of the 3 female genotypes (XX, XX* and X*Y) and investigated the expression of some of the main genes involved in male and female differentiation. We found that X*Y gonads display a typical ovarian structure without any testicular organization. Moreover, the ovarian somatic marker FOXL2 is detected in X*Y follicle cells and exhibits the same pattern as in XX and XX* ovaries, whereas SOX9 and DMRT1 are absent at all stages of follicular differentiation. However, surprisingly, X*Y ovaries display a higher level of Sry transcripts compared to testes. Our findings confirm the complete sex reversal in X*Y individuals with no apparent sign of masculinization, providing an attractive model to unravel new gene interactions involved in the mammalian sex determination system.
Ciało i piętno. Defloracja jako wytwarzanie kobiecości
Authors: Zawadzka Anna
Published: October 2014

The body and the stigma. Defloration as an act of building femininity The paper offers an analysis of the cultural meanings of the bodily attributes and practices related to virginity and defloration; the most important are “bloodstains” (a sign of the loss of virginity) and “penetration” (regarded as the only “true” form of sexual intercourse). The obligation to present the defloration and the shame that accompanies it are the vantage point to the analysis of the forms of stigmatizing femininity. A deconstruction of the meanings acquired by penetration led me to a conclusion that the cause-effect relation between gender and culturally defined sexual practices (including sexual orientation) is not only inseparable, but also different than it has usually been thought. It is not the gender that determines an individual’s sexuality, but the culturally imposed sexual practices build the gender. Ciało i piętno. Defloracja jako wytwarzanie kobiecościArtykuł poświęcony jest kulturowym znaczeniom cielesnych atrybutów i praktyk związanych z dziewictwem i defloracją. Szczególne miejsce wśród nich zajmuje plama krwi jako znak obwieszczający utratę dziewictwa oraz penetracja powszechnie uważana za jedyny „prawdziwy” seks. Przymus uwidocznienia defloracji oraz wstyd z tym związany traktuję jako punkt wyjścia do rozważań na temat piętnowania kobiecości. Dekonstrukcja narosłych wokół penetracji znaczeń pozwala z kolei dostrzec, że związek przyczynowo-skutkowy między płcią kulturową a kulturowo definiowanymi praktykami seksualnymi – w tym orientacją seksualną – jest nie tylko nierozerwalny, ale i odwrotny, niż zwykło się sądzić. To nie płeć kulturowa decyduje o seksualności jednostki, lecz kulturowo wymuszone praktyki seksualne produkują płeć.
IWAL–An Interactive Weather Analysis Laboratory
Authors: Limbach Sebastian , Sprenger Michael , Schömer Elmar , Wernli Heini
Published: October 2014

Complementary key elements of meteorological education are the provision of a thorough theoretical understanding of the physical laws governing atmospheric motions, and the hands-on investigation and visualization of specific weather systems. However, the latter task is technically challenging, because specific skills must be acquired for flexibly handling meteorological data. Some examples are superimposing satellite pictures and reanalysis fields, producing an isentropic potential vorticity (PV) map, and visualizing a vertical section across a flow feature of interest. Although learning these technical issues has its own merits, it can distract students from investigating the complexities of meteorology. This experience from teaching beginner classes in synoptic meteorology at ETH Zurich and the University of Mainz was the main motivation for developing the educational software tool IWAL, the Interactive Weather Analysis Laboratory. IWAL is designed as a web application for easy, fast, and interactive access to large meteorological datasets, which enables active and curiosity-driven learning. The main target users of IWAL are students with little or no experience in the handling and visualization of such data. The interactivity; the option to very easily reproduce complex visualizations; and advanced features, such as the interactive computation of trajectories, are also of interest to more experienced students and lecturers.
Impact of the 2011 Southern U.S. Drought on Ground-Level Fine Aerosol Concentration in Summertime*
Authors: Wang Yuxuan , Xie Yuanyu , Cai Libao , Dong Wenhao , Zhang Qianqian , Zhang Lin
Published: October 2014

This study investigates the impacts of the 2011 severe drought in the southern United States on ground-level fine aerosol (PM2.5) concentrations in the summer. The changes in surface concentrations and planetary boundary layer (PBL) budget of PM2.5 between June 2010 (near-normal rainfall) and June 2011 (severe drought) are quantified using surface observations and the GEOS-Chem model. Observations show an average enhancement of 26% (p < 10−4) in total PM2.5 over the southern U.S. (SUS) region during the drought, which is largely attributed to a ~120% increase in organic carbon (OC). Over Texas (TX) under extreme drought conditions, surface PM2.5 shows a mean decrease of 10.7% (p < 0.15), which is mainly driven by a decrease of 26% (p < 0.03) in sulfate. Model simulations reproduce the observed relative changes in total PM2.5, OC, and sulfate during the drought. The model correctly identifies OC as the major contributor to the overall PM2.5 increase over SUS and sulfate as the key driver of the PM2.5 decrease over TX. Budget analysis suggests that increased OC emissions from wildfires (+58 kt C month−1), enhanced SOA production (+1.1 kt C month−1), and transboundary inflow from Mexico (+8.6 kt C month−1) are major contributors to the increase in atmospheric OC contents over SUS. Over TX, a 70% decrease of aqueous-phase oxidation of sulfate, driven by decreasing low clouds, outweighs the combined effects of reduced wet deposition and decreased outflow as the key driver of sulfate decrease both at the surface and within the PBL.
The Hittites and their Geography: Problems of Hittite Historical Geography
Authors: Alparslan Metin , Doğan-Alparslan Meltem
Published: October 2014

The Hittite state was founded c. 1650 BC and developed thereafter. The Hittites were able to establish their rule in Anatolia's hostile landscape and overcome the difficulties it presented to create an empire—an objective that they achieved with the aid of their remarkable organizational skills. Despite the frequent occurrence of geographical names in the state archives, only a small number of them can be safely localized and, although Hittitology is a 100-year-old field, the regional names have only recently been determined. This article serves as a general introduction to the Hittites as well as a review of the problem of geographical names, revealing the complexity it presents.
Patellar resurfacing in posterior cruciate ligament retaining total knee arthroplasty (PATRES): design of a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Bischoff Maria JFJ , van Raaij Tom M , Reininga Inge HF , van Raay Jos JAM
Published: October 2014

Background

Anterior knee pain may occur after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Patellar resurfacing, which is considered to lower the incidence of anterior knee pain after TKA, remains controversial. In the present study clinical and radiological outcomes after TKA performed on patients with clinical and radiological signs of femorotibial and patellofemoral osteoarthritis (OA) with and without patellar resurfacing will be compared.

Methods/design

Fifty patients will be included in a randomized controlled trial. Patients scheduled for TKA with clinical and radiological signs of femorotibial and patellofemoral OA will be included. Arthritis of the patellofemoral joint was determined based on the preoperative Baldini and Merchant X-ray views, which is assessed by the orthopaedic surgeon who treats the patient. Exclusion criteria are rheumatoid arthritis, history of patellar fracture, tuberosity transposition, high tibial osteotomy (HTO), hip arthroplasty and posterior cruciate ligament insufficiency. Patients will be randomized to undergo TKA either with or without patellar resurfacing. Outcomes will be assessed preoperatively, at 6 weeks and at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months postoperatively. Primary outcome measure is the patellofemoral scoring system according to Baldini. Secondary outcome measures are the Knee Society clinical rating system (KSS) and the Knee Osteoarthritis Outcome Scale (KOOS) scores. Conventional weight-bearing radiographs, and views according to Baldini will be used to asses component loosening, wear, and patellofemoral problems including fracture or loosening of resurfaced patellae, subluxation and wear of non-resurfaced patellae.

Discussion

There is no consensus regarding patellar resurfacing during primary TKA. Current prospective studies fail to determine any differences in clinical outcome among patients after TKA with or without patellar resurfacing. This randomized controlled trial has been designed to determine the effectiveness of patellar resurfacing during TKA in patients undergoing TKA who have clinical and radiological signs of tibiofemoral and patellofemoral OA, using a specific patellofemoral outcome measurement.

Trial registration

Netherlands Trial RegistryNTR3108
Etiology of Keratoconus: proposed biomechanical pathogenesis
Authors: Asher Roy , Gefen Amit , Moisseiev Elad , Varssano David
Published: October 2014

Background

The etiology of keratoconus most likely involves substantial biomechanical interactions. The goal of this study was to characterize corneal biomechanics using computer modeling techniques in order to elucidate the pathogenesis of keratoconus in biomechanical terms.

Methods

Finite element models of the cornea that are based on anatomical dimensions were developed. Cases comprising of thinned regions as well as regions with degraded isotropic mechanical properties and a case of gradual stiffening towards the limbus were subjected to normal intraocular pressures. The resulting deformations and dioptric power maps were analyzed and compared. Three additional cases that are based on a model of a thin plate were used to demonstrate the effect a transition from orthotropic to isotropic mechanical properties would have in terms of deformations and diopteric power maps.

Results

Results show that under 10mmHg intraocular pressure, decreasing the modulus of elasticity and thinning have opposite effects on the dioptric power maps of a homogenous isotropic cornea. When the thickness was maintained at 500 microns and the stiffness was decreased from 0.4 MPa to 0.04 MPa there was an increase of more than 40 diopters. For a cornea with a constant modulus of elasticity value of 0.4 MPa, 350 microns decrease in thickness resulted in a decrease of approximately 25 diopters. The anisotropic non-homogenous characteristics of the cornea have shown to be critical for maintaining the morphology of a healthy corneal.

Conclusions

Degradation of the circumferential fibers may very well be an initiating factor of a biomechanical process in which a bulge is gradually created from a presumably healthy cornea under normal underlying pressures and therefore, the identification of the early stages of keratoconus might be achievable by monitoring the in-vivo corneal fiber distribution.
CRP genotype and haplotype associations with serum C-reactive protein level and DAS28 in untreated early rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Ammitzbøll Christian Gytz , Steffensen Rudi , Bøgsted Martin , Hørslev-Petersen Kim , Hetland Merete L , Junker Peter , Johansen Julia S , Pødenphant Jan , Østergaard Mikkel , Ellingsen Torkell , Stengaard-Pedersen Kristian
Published: October 2014

Introduction

Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the CRP gene are implicated in the regulation of the constitutional C-reactive protein (CRP) expression and its response to proinflammatory stimuli. Previous reports suggest that these effects may have an impact on clinical decision-making tools based on CRP, such as the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28). We aimed to investigate the possible association between seven CRP SNPs, their haplotypes and the serum levels of CRP, as well as DAS28 scores, in two cohorts of untreated active early rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients followed during their initial treatment.

Methods

Overall, 315 patients with RA from two randomized controlled trials (the CIMESTRA and OPERA trials) who were naïve to disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and steroids with disease durations less than 6 months were included. Seven CRP SNPs were investigated: rs11265257, rs1130864, rs1205, rs1800947, rs2808632, rs3093077 and rs876538. The genotype and haplotype associations with CRP and DAS28 levels were evaluated using linear regression analysis adjusted for age, sex and treatment.

Results

The minor allele of rs1205 C > T was associated with decreased CRP levels at baseline (P = 0.03), with the TT genotype having a 50% reduction in CRP from 16.7 to 8.4 mg/L (P = 0.005) compared to homozygosity of the major allele, but no association was observed at year 1 (P = 0.38). The common H2 haplotype, characterized by the T allele of rs1205, was associated with a 26% reduction in CRP at baseline (P = 0.043), although no effect was observed at year 1 (P = 0.466). No other SNP or haplotype was associated with CRP at baseline or at year 1 (P ≥0.09). We observed no associations between SNPs or haplotypes and DAS28 scores at baseline or at year 1 (P ≥0.10).

Conclusion

CRP genotype and haplotype were only marginally associated with serum CRP levels and had no association with the DAS28 score. This study shows that DAS28, the core parameter for inflammatory activity in RA, can be used for clinical decision-making without adjustment for CRP gene variants.

Trial registration

The OPERA study is registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00660647). The CIMESTRA study is not listed in a clinical trials registry, because patients were included between October 1999 and October 2002.
Hydraulic conductivity and contribution of aquaporins to water uptake in roots of four sunflower genotypes
Authors: Adiredjo Afifuddin Latif , Navaud Olivier , Grieu Philippe , Lamaze Thierry
Published: October 2014

Background

This article evaluates the potential of intraspecific variation for whole-root hydraulic properties in sunflower. We investigated genotypic differences related to root water transport in four genotypes selected because of their differing water use efficiency (JAC doi: 10.1111/jac.12079. 2014). We used a pressure-flux approach to characterize hydraulic conductance (L

0
) which reflects the overall water uptake capacity of the roots and hydraulic conductivity (Lp

r
) which represents the root intrinsic water permeability on an area basis. The contribution of aquaporins (AQPs) to water uptake was explored using mercuric chloride (HgCl2), a general AQP blocker.

Results

There were considerable variations in root morphology between genotypes. Mean values of L

0
and Lp

r
showed significant variation (above 60% in both cases) between recombinant inbred lines in control plants. Pressure-induced sap flow was strongly inhibited by HgCl2 treatment in all genotypes (more than 50%) and contribution of AQPs to hydraulic conductivity varied between genotypes. Treated root systems displayed markedly different L

0
values between genotypes whereas Lp

r
values were similar.

Conclusions

Our analysis points to marked differences between genotypes in the intrinsic aquaporin-dependent path (Lp

r
in control plants) but not in the intrinsic AQP-independent paths (Lp

r
in HgCl2 treated plants). Overall, root anatomy was a major determinant of water transport properties of the whole organ and can compensate for a low AQP contribution. Hydraulic properties of root tissues and organs might have to be taken into account for plant breeding since they appear to play a key role in sunflower water balance and water use efficiency.
The Southeastern Minnesota Beacon Project for Community-driven Health Information
Technology: Origins, Achievements, and Legacy
Authors: Chute Christopher G. , Hart Lacey A. , Alexander Alex K. , Jensen Daniel W.
Published: October 2014

Introduction: The Southeastern (SE) Minnesota Beacon organized all the health care
providers, county public health organizations, and school districts in the deployment
and integration of health information exchange (HIE) and targeted health communication
around childhood asthma and diabetes. The community cooperated to establish a clinical
data repository for all residents in the 11-county region. Through this community of
practice approach that involved traditional and nontraditional providers, the SE
Minnesota Beacon was able to realize unique applications of this technology. This
manuscript overviews the associated organization and infrastructure of this community
collaboration.Background: The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information
Technology (ONC), as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA)
stimulus, established 17 projects throughout the United States targeting the
introduction and meaningful use of health information technology (HIT). These 17
communities were intended to serve as an example of what could be accomplished. The SE
Minnesota Beacon is one of these communities.Methods: The community ultimately opted for
peer-to-peer HIE, using Nationwide Health Information Network (NwHIN) Connect software.
The clinical data repository was established using the infrastructure developed by the
Regenstrief Institute, which operated as a trusted third party. As an extension to HIE,
the consortium of county public health departments created a patient data portal for use
by school nurses and parents. Childhood asthma was addressed by creating, exchanging,
and maintaining an “asthma action plan” for each affected child, shared throughout the
community, including through the patient portal. Diabetes management introduced patient
treatment decision tools and patient quality of life measures, facilitating care.
Influenza vaccination was enhanced by large-scale community reporting in partnership
with the state vaccination registry. The methodology and principles for arriving at
these solutions included community engagement, sustainability, scalability, standards,
and best practices that fit a variety of organizations—from large, robust providers to
small organizations.Findings: The SE Minnesota Beacon demonstrated that all providers
for a geographically defined population can cooperate in the development and shared
governance of a low-cost, sustainable HIE, and the operation of a community-managed
clinical data repository. Furthermore, these infrastructures can be leveraged to
collaboratively improve the care of patients, as demonstrated for childhood asthma and
adult diabetes mellitus.Conclusion: The shared governance of HIT by a community can
palpably change the scope and success of collaborations targeted to improve patient and
community health care.
Health and Rights at the Margins: Human trafficking and HIV/AIDS amongst Jingpo ethnic communities in Ruili City, China
Authors: Shih Elena
Published: October 2014

In 2007, China and Myanmar signed their first Bilateral Memorandum of Understanding on human trafficking. The two countries cemented this agreement with the unveiling of the first Border Liaison Office in Ruili City, located in China’s southwestern Yunnan Province — one of the primary border crossing points between China and Myanmar. The government focus on human trafficking on this border intersects with decades of struggles to curb the border’s porousness to drugs and HIV/AIDS. This paper is based on qualitative ethnographic participant observation and interviews with young Jingpo women living in Ruili City and investigates the risk of human trafficking as a by-product of cultural stigma associated with ethnic marginality, drugs, and HIV/AIDS. The case of Ruili warns us that the global shift towards regarding human trafficking as the single most perilous phenomenon of the current age obscures ongoing issues of vulnerability and cultural stigma for ethnic minority peoples globally. In lieu of state sponsored patrol and monitoring of the border, more attention must be paid to overlapping concerns of people living in border communities, including drug prevalence, disease, and ethnic marginalisation.
A participaçao cidadano
Authors: Migliano Mg. Lcda. Milene
Published: October 2014

O artigo aqui apresentado é uma tentativa de análise crítica da experiência de requerimento de cumprimento da lei, revisão, implementação e eleição do Conselho Municipal de Cultura de Belo Horizonte, a partir da decisão de fazer a lei de 2008 entrar em prática, em 2011. A partir do entendimento do que significa um planejamento estratégico urbano, teceremos nossas considerações sobre o processo vivenciado na capital mineira. O texto, que começa em terceira pessoa, sofrerá nossa afetação participativa durante o relato, e será conduzido até o final em primeira pessoa.
Impact of fertilization on water resources in karst, example of research field site Sinji Vrh
Authors: ČENČUR CURK Barbara
Published: October 2014

A research field site (RFS) was established at Sinji Vrh in the western part of Slovenia in order to study flow and solute (particularly pollutant) transport in fractured and karstified rocks, with a focus on the unsaturated zone. RFS consists of surface set-up and a research tunnel, 15 m below the surface. Agrometeorological station was installed on the RFS. A special construction (1.5 m long segments) for collecting water seeping from the ceiling of the research tunnel was developed. At the research field site Sinji Vrh fertilizer application experiments were performed for estimation of impact of fertilization on water resources. Results of the fertiliser application experiments have shown that a thin autochtonous soil cover on karstic rock is insufficient to retain nitrate and prevent pollution of groundwater.
Determination of an optimal priming duration and concentration protocol for pepper seeds (Capsicum annuum L.)
Authors: ALOUI Hassen , SOUGUIR Maher , HANNACHI Chérif
Published: October 2014

Seed priming is a simple pre-germination method to improve seed performance and to attenuate the effects of stress exposure. The objective of this study was to determinate an optimal priming protocol for three pepper cultivars (Capsicum annuum L.): ‘Beldi’, ‘Baklouti’ and ‘Anaheim Chili’. Seeds were primed with three solutions of NaCl, KCl and CaCl2 (0, 10, 20 and 50 mM) for three different durations (12, 24 and 36h). Control seeds were soaked in distilled water for the same durations. After that, all seeds were kept to germinate in laboratory under normal light and controlled temperature. Results indicated that priming depends on concentration, duration and cultivar. The best combinations that we obtained were: KCl priming (10 mM, 36h) for ‘Beldi’ cultivar, CaCl2 priming (10 mM, 36h) for ‘Baklouti’ cultivar and finally NaCl priming (50 mM, 24h) for ‘Anaheim Chili’ cultivar. Generally, priming had an effect on total germination percentage, mean germination time, germination index and the coefficient of velocity compared to control seeds. The beneficial effect of seed priming could be used for improving salt tolerance on germination and early seedling growth for pepper cultivar.
The complex and covert web of financial protectionism
Authors: Young Kevin
Published: October 2014

In the wake of the 2008 financial crisis, governments turned to protectionist policies to support their financial sectors. Yet these policy choices have been highly variegated, and like many recent protectionist policies reflect a process of adaptation to changing circumstances. Using data on a variety of government interventions in the financial sector since the crisis, I show that financial protectionism comes in at leastthreetypes, only two of which have witnessed a traceable increase since the global financial crisis. These are protection through market entry restrictions (Type 1), through asymmetrically applied regulation (Type 2) and protection through subsidies (Type 3). While Type 1 has not appeared to change significantly since the crisis, Type 2 and Type 3 have. I present empirical evidence which suggests that while Type 3 financial protectionism proliferated during and shortly after the crisis, it is unlikely to continue. Type 2 financial protectionism, I conclude, is more likely to take off into the future because of the nature of interest group effects associated with asymmetric regulation as a form of government intervention.
Simulation of the Denitrification Process of Waste Water with a Biochemical Systems Model: A Non-Conventional Approach
Authors: Adouani Nouceiba , Limousy Lionel , Lendormi Thomas , Voit Eberhard O. , Sire Olivier
Published: October 2014

Matching experimental and theoretical approaches have often been fruitful in the investigation of complex biological processes. Here we develop a novel non-conventional model for the denitrification of waste water. Earlier models of the denitrification process were compiled by the International Association on Water Quality group. The Activated Sludge Models 1–3, which are the most frequently used all over the world, are presently not adapted towards the integration of both nitrous and nitric oxide emissions during the denitrification process. In the present work, a Generalized Mass Action model, based on Biochemical Systems Theory, was designed to simulate the nitrate reduction observed in specific experimental conditions. The model was implemented and analysed with the software package PLAS. Data from a representative experiment were chosen (T=10°C, pH=7, C/N=3, with acetate as carbon source) to simulate greenhouse NO and N2O gas emissions, in order to test hypotheses about the corresponding bacterial metabolic pathways. The results show that the reduction of nitrate and nitrite is kinetically limiting and that nitrate reduction is limited by diffusion and support that distinct microbial subpopulations are involved in the denitrification pathway, which has consequences for NO emissions.
Laboratory X-ray Tomography: A Valuable Experimental Tool for Revealing Processes in Soils
Authors: Viggiani G. , Andò E. , Takano D. , Santamarina J.C.
Published: October 2014

The use of high-resolution tomographic techniques has allowed for unprecedented observations and a renewed understanding of geomaterials and processes. A laboratory x-ray scanner is used to explore the potential of the technology in the context of complex geotechnical systems. Tests benefit from the fast and non-destructive nature of x-ray measurements and the micrometer-scale resolution that is attainable. Several first-time observations are reported here. In this paper we demonstrate the following: subsurface volume loss in sandy soils can cause the formation of sharply defined low-density pipes; cryogenic suction consolidates sediments next to ice lenses during ground freezing; root growth involves transverse expansion, and the stress relaxation at the tip facilitates further longitudinal invasion; blade insertion causes successive shear localizations; and the incipient formation of desiccation cracks is not necessarily along a planar front—in fact, the fracture plane may split as it encounters heterogeneities at the tip. Finally, it is shown that x-rays can be used to monitor chemical processes that cause coupled mechanical effects, such as osmotic consolidation induced by ionic diffusion and mineral dissolution. Although brief events may not be tomographically imaged, single x-ray radiographs can be analyzed and compared to gain extensive process information.
Interaction of the Cell Adhesion Molecule CHL1 with Vitronectin, Integrins, and the Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-2 Promotes CHL1-Induced Neurite Outgrowth and Neuronal Migration
Authors: Katic Jelena , Loers Gabriele , Kleene Ralf , Karl Nicole , Schmidt Carsten , Buck Friedrich , Zmijewski Jaroslaw W. , Jakovcevski Igor , Preissner Klaus T. , Schachner Melitta
Published: October 2014

The cell adhesion molecule close homolog of L1 (CHL1) plays important functional roles in the developing and adult nervous system. In search of the binding partners that mediate the diverse and sometimes opposing functions of CHL1, the extracellular matrix-associated proteins vitronectin and plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 (PAI-2) were identified as novel CHL1 interaction partners and tested for involvement in CHL1-dependent functions during mouse cerebellar development. CHL1-induced cerebellar neurite outgrowth and cell migration at postnatal days 6–8 were inhibited by a CHL1-derived peptide comprising the integrin binding RGD motif, and by antibodies against vitronectin or several integrins, indicating a vitronectin-dependent integrin-mediated pathway. A PAI-2-derived peptide, or antibodies against PAI-2, urokinase type plasminogen activator (uPA), uPA receptor, and several integrins reduced cell migration. CHL1 colocalized with vitronectin, PAI-2, and several integrins in cerebellar granule cells, suggesting an association among these proteins. Interestingly, at the slightly earlier age of 4–5 d, cerebellar neurons did not depend on CHL1 for neuritogenesis and cell migration. However, differentiation of progenitor cells into neurons at this stage was dependent on homophilic CHL1–CHL1 interactions. These observations indicate that homophilic CHL1trans-interactions regulate differentiation of neuronal progenitor cells at early postnatal stages, while heterophilictrans-interactions of CHL1 with vitronectin, integrins, and the plasminogen activator system regulate neuritogenesis and neuronal cell migration at a later postnatal stage of cerebellar morphogenesis. Thus, within very narrow time windows in postnatal cerebellar development, distinct types of molecular interactions mediated by CHL1 underlie the diverse functions of this protein.
Role of microRNAs in mammalian spermatogenesis and testicular germ cell tumors
Authors: Wang Li , Xu Chen
Published: October 2014

microRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small endogenous RNAs, 19–25 nucleotides in size, which play a role in the regulation of gene expression at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Spermatogenesis is a complex process through which spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) proliferate and differentiate into mature spermatozoa. A large number of miRNAs are abundantly expressed in spermatogenic cells. Growing evidence supports the essential role of miRNA regulation in normal spermatogenesis and male fertility and cumulative research has shown that this form of regulation contributes to the etiology of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs). In this review, we addressed recent advancements of miRNA expression profiles in testis and focused on the regulatory functions of miRNA in the process of SSC renewal, spermatogonial mitosis, spermatocyte meiosis, spermiogenesis, and the occurrence of TGCTs.
Maturity onset diabetes of young type 2 due to a novel de novo GKC mutation
Authors: Afonso Paula , Ferraria Nélia , Carvalho Alexandre , Castro Sofia Vidal
Published: October 2014

Maturity Onset Diabetes of Young (MODY) is a heterogeneous group of monogenic disorders that result in β-cell dysfunction, with an estimated prevalence of 1%-2% in industrialized countries. MODY generally occurs in non-obese patients with negative autoantibodies presenting with mild to moderate hyperglycemia. The clinical features of the patients are heterogeneous, depending on the different genetic subtypes. We pretend to report a case of MODY type 2 caused by a novel de novo CGK mutation, highlighting the importance of the differential diagnosis in pediatric diabetes. A 13-year-old, healthy and non-obese girl was admitted for investigation of recurrent hyperglycemia episodes. She presented with persistent high levels of fasting blood glycemia (> 11.1 mmol/L) and had no familial history of diabetes. The blood glucose proﬁle revealed an impaired fasting glucose of 124 mg/dL (6,9 mmol/L) with a normal oral glucose tolerance test. Fasting insulinemia was 15 mg/dL (90.1 pmol/L), HOMA-IR was 3.9 and hemoglobin A1c was 7.1%. Pancreatic autoantibodies were negative. Genetic testing identified a novel missense heterozygous mutation in exon 5 of GCK gene c.509G > T (p.Gly170Val), not present on the parents. This result established the diagnosis of MODY type 2. Clinical identification of patients with MODY remains a diagnostic challenge, especially when familial history is absent. Molecular diagnosis is very important for establishing an individualized treatment and providing a long term prognosis for each type of MODY.
Paralisia periódica hipocalêmica tireotóxica em paciente de ascendência africana
Authors: Maia Morgana Lima e , Trevisam Paula Grasiele Carvalho , Minicucci Marcos , Mazeto Glaucia M. F. S. , Azevedo Paula S.
Published: October 2014

A paralisia periódica hipocalêmica tireotóxica (PPHT) é uma urgência endocrinológica caracterizada por ataques recorrentes de fraqueza muscular, associados à hipocalemia e à tireotoxicose. Essa patologia ocorre mais frequentemente em pacientes do sexo masculino, de origem asiática, sendo rara sua apresentação em pessoas de ascendência africana. O caso descrito mostra um paciente afrodescendente que apresentou tetraparesia associada à hipocalemia. Durante esse episódio foi realizado o diagnóstico de hipertireoidismo. A PPHT, embora rara, é potencialmente letal. Portanto, em casos de crises de paresias flácidas, essa hipótese diagnóstica deve ser sempre considerada, principalmente se associada à hipocalemia. Nessa situação, se não houver diagnóstico prévio de hipertireoidismo, este também deve ser considerado.
Prejuízo da vasodilatação muscular durante estresse mental em mulheres com hipotireoidismo subclínico
Authors: Ghetti Fabiana de Faria , Lacerda Rafaela Pinheiro , Wernek Francisco Zacaron , Coelho Emerson Filipino , Vaisman Mário , Lima Jorge Roberto Perrout de , Martinez Daniel Godoy , Laterza Mateus Camaroti
Published: October 2014

Objetivo Testar a hipótese de que mulheres com hipotireoidismo subclínico (HSC) possuem condutância vascular do antebraço (CVA) prejudicados durante estresse mental. Sujeitos e métodos Foram avaliadas 20 mulheres com HSC e 21 eutireoidianas (Grupo Controle), pareadas por idade (p = 0,699) e índice de massa corporal (p = 0,462). O fluxo sanguíneo muscular (FSM), avaliado pela pletismografia de oclusão venosa, e a pressão arterial, medida pelo Dixtal2023, foram registrados simultaneamente durante 3 minutos de basal, seguidos de 3 minutos de estresse mental. A CVA foi calculada pela divisão do FSM pela pressão arterial média. Foi adotada significância de p < 0,05. Resultados O grupo HSC apresentou maior concentração do hormônio tireoestimulante (7,57 ± 3,17 vs. 2,10 ± 0,88 mU/L, p < 0,001). No basal, os grupos HSC e Controle foram semelhantes respectivamente para FSM (2,50 ± 0,79 vs. 2,55 ± 0,71 mL/min/100 mL, p = 0,905) e CVA (2,80 ± 0,90 vs. 2,92 ± 0,88 unidades, p = 0,952). Durante todo o estresse mental, os grupos HSC e Controle aumentaram significativamente o FSM (efeito tempo, p < 0,001) e CVA (efeito tempo, p < 0,001) em relação ao basal. Porém, essas variáveis foram significativamente menores no grupo HSC durante o primeiro (FSM: 3,66 ± 0,96 vs. 4,66 ± 1,61 mL/ min/100 mL, p = 0,018; CVA: 3,95 ± 1,08 vs. 5,19 ± 1,96 unidades, p = 0,010) e segundo (FSM: 3,55 ± 1,01 vs. 4,62 ± 2,27 mL/min/100 mL, p = 0,018; CVA: 3,75 ± 1,07 vs. 4,92 ± 2,37 unidades, p = 0,020) minutos do teste de estresse mental. Conclusão Mulheres com HSC possuem comportamento vasodilatador prejudicado durante o estresse mental.
Judicialização da política no Brasil: ver além do constitucionalismo liberal para ver melhor
Authors: Avritzer Leonardo , Marona Marjorie Corrêa
Published: October 2014

O presente trabalho busca abordar o fenômeno da judicialização da política no Brasil a partir de uma perspectiva analítica que supere o marco liberal. Parte-se do pressuposto de que as versões acerca da judicialização da política são construídas a partir de uma perspectiva comum, forjada sob os auspícios das teorias democrática e constitucional hegemônicas. No entanto, a realidade histórico-constitucional brasileira - nomeadamente após a redemocratização - é inovadora não apenas do ponto de vista institucional, como também enseja a renovação dos termos da relação entre sociedade civil e Estado na conformação do sistema político, emprestando novos contornos ao fenômeno da judicialização da política.
Prevenção da sífilis congênita em Fortaleza, Ceará: uma avaliação de estrutura e processo
Authors: Araujo Maria Alix Leite , Barros Valéria Lima de , Moura Heber José de , Rocha Ana Fátima Braga , Guanabara Marilene Alves Oliveira
Published: October 2014

Objetivo: Avaliar a estrutura e o processo de trabalho dos profissionais de saúde para desenvolver as ações de prevenção e controle da sífilis congênita em Fortaleza, Ceará. Métodos: Pesquisa avaliativa desenvolvida de julho a outubro de 2011 em 89 unidades primárias. Foram avaliados os componentes de estrutura física, materiais e insumos, recursos humanos e estrutura organizacional e as unidades foram classificadas como satisfatórias e insatisfatórias. Resultados: Na classificação geral, descobriu-se que somente 47,2% das unidades foram consideradas insatisfatórias. A sala de coleta de sangue estava presente em 68,5%, profissional capacitado para atender casos de sífilis em 21,3% e apenas 16,9% das unidades aplicavam a penicilina benzatina em gestantes. Conclusão: No geral, as unidades primárias de saúde não se encontravam em condições estruturais e processuais para contribuir para o controle da sífilis congênita.
Saúde materno-infantil em comunidades quilombolas no norte de Minas Gerais
Authors: Oliveira Stéphany Ketlin Mendes , Pereira Mayane Moura , Freitas Daniel Antunes , Caldeira Antônio Prates
Published: October 2014

Objetivou-se descrever indicadores de saúde materno-infantil em comunidades quilombolas ao norte de Minas Gerais. Trata-se de estudo transversal, de base populacional. Os dados foram coletados nos domiílios, alocados aleatoriamente, incluindo 411 mulheres com idade entre 18 e 49 anos e 234 crianças com idade igual ou inferior a cinco anos. A maioria das famílias (73,7%) referiu uma renda mensal inferior a um salário mínimo, e quase metade das mulheres entrevistadas (49,2%) tinha escolaridade inferior a quatro anos. O acesso à água tratada, esgotamento sanitário e coleta de lixo era limitado. A maioria das mulheres (52,1%) relatou a primeira gestação na adolescência e 35% relataram quatro ou mais gestações. A realização de exames preventivos para o câncer de colo uterino se mostrou irregular e 15,1% das mulheres nunca haviam feito o exame. Em relação ao ciclo gravídico-puerperal, 23,5% das mulheres referiram menos de seis consultas de pré-natal, 37,2% relataram início do pré-natal após o primeiro trimestre de gestação e 44,4% não fizeram consulta puerperal. Em relação às crianças, 15% nasceram com baixo peso, 9,4% tinham problemas crônicos de saúde e 40,6% não faziam uso regular de vitamina A. Os resultados destacam condições críticas de acesso aos cuidados de saúde.
Efeito do treinamento proprioceptivo no equilíbrio de atletas de ginástica rítmica
Authors: Lamb Marianne , Oliveira Priscila Daniele de , Tano Simone Sayomi , Gil André Wilson de Oliveira , Santos Eliana Virginia Nobre dos , Fernandes Karen Barros Parron , Semeão Florisvaldo Aparecido , Oliveira Rodrigo Franco de
Published: October 2014

INTRODUÇÃO: A ginástica rítmica (GR) é uma modalidade esportiva que combina arte a gestos biomecânicos de alta complexidade, que requer alto nível de desenvolvimento de qualidades físicas como: agilidade, flexibilidade, força, impulsão e destreza. Nessa modalidade, estudos comprovam que as lesões mais frequentes ocorrem nas articulações do joelho e tornozelo e, em alguns casos, nas extremidades do punho, sendo os entorses as mais registradas, principalmente em atletas de nível de competição. Diante disso, a propriocepção e o controle muscular possuem papel fundamental na estabilidade articular dinâmica, já que após lesões ortopédicas algumas características sensório-motoras são alteradas e devem ser o foco de programas de reabilitação para que se obtenha melhor retorno às atividades como antes da lesão.OBJETIVO: Avaliar o efeito do treinamento proprioceptivo sobre o equilíbrio postural de atletas de ginástica rítmica, a partir da utilização da plataforma de força.MÉTODOS: Foi realizado um treinamento proprioceptivo no período de 2 meses, subdividido em três fases, com progressão da complexidade dos exercícios a cada fase de treinamento.RESULTADOS: Podemos observar que houve uma melhora significativa dos resultados da última fase do treinamento, quando foram utilizados exercícios de maior complexidade e agilidade, de acordo com o protocolo.CONCLUSÃO: Por se tratarem de atletas de GR de alto desempenho e apresentarem predomínio de atividades em apoio unipodal, os protocolos de propriocepção devem ser mais intensos, gerando um maior nível de perturbações e desequilíbrios posturais.
The influence of health expenditures on household impoverishment in Brazil
Authors: Boing Alexandra Crispim , Bertoldi Andréa Dâmaso , Posenato Leila Garcia , Peres Karen Glazer
Published: October 2014

OBJECTIVE To analyze the variation in the proportion of households living below the poverty line in Brazil and the factors associated with their impoverishment. METHODS Income and expenditure data from the Household Budget Survey, which was conducted in Brazil between 2002-2003 (n = 48,470 households) and 2008-2009 (n = 55,970 households) with a national sample, were analyzed. Two cutoff points were used to define poverty. The first cutoff is a per capita monthly income below R$100.00 in 2002-2003 and R$140.00 in 2008-2009, as recommended by the Bolsa Família Program. The second, which is proposed by the World Bank and is adjusted for purchasing power parity, defines poverty as per capita income below US$2.34 and US$3.54 per day in 2002-2003 and 2008-2009, respectively. Logistic regression was used to identify the sociodemographic factors associated with the impoverishment of households. RESULTS After subtracting health expenditures, there was an increase in households living below the poverty line in Brazil. Using the World Bank poverty line, the increase in 2002-2003 and 2008-2009 was 2.6 percentage points (6.8%) and 2.3 percentage points (11.6%), respectively. Using the Bolsa Família Program poverty line, the increase was 1.6 (11.9%) and 1.3 (17.3%) percentage points, respectively. Expenditure on prescription drugs primarily contributed to the increase in poor households. According to the World Bank poverty line, the factors associated with impoverishment include a worse-off financial situation, a household headed by an individual with low education, the presence of children, and the absence of older adults. Using the Bolsa Família Program poverty line, the factors associated with impoverishment include a worse-off financial situation and the presence of children. CONCLUSIONS Health expenditures play an important role in the impoverishment of segments of the Brazilian population, especially among the most disadvantaged.
Visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil: rationale and concerns related to reservoir control
Authors: Werneck Guilherme Loureiro
Published: October 2014

The control of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis is a challenge, particularly in Brazil, where the disease has been gradually spreading across the country over the past 30 years. Strategies employed for decreasing the transmission risk are based on the control of vector populations and reservoirs; since humans are considered unnecessary for the maintenance of transmission. Among the adopted strategies in Brazil, the sacrifice of infected dogs is commonly performed and has been the most controversial measure. In the present study, we provide the rationale for the implementation of different control strategies targeted at reservoir populations and highlight the limitations and concerns associated with each of these strategies.
Surface treatment of concrete test specimens subjected to compression
Authors: Chies J. A. , Rohden A. B. , Silva Filho L. C. P.
Published: October 2014

The technological control of concrete can only be considered a quality control procedure when all its steps are followed properly. Compressive strength testing plays a critical role in the technological control of concrete structures and in the technological development of concrete. The aim of this study is to select the most suitable preparation technique for conventional and high-strength concrete by analyzing mean strength, standard deviation and coefficients of variation. Test specimens with compressive strength ranging from 20 to 120 MPa were prepared in a laboratory and were then subjected to seven different types of surface treatment, using bonded, unbonded and mechanical wear (grinding) systems. Results show that the most effective technique is grinding using a rigid head. The performance of unbonded system was also suitable for use with conventional and high strength concrete.
Analysis of the braking longitudinal force considered by NBR7187 (2003) through a case study
Authors: Bettazzi G. C. , Dumêt T. B.
Published: October 2014

This paper analyzed the mechanical behavior of a railway bridge by the Finite Element Method and by monitoring strain deformations with extensometry during its operation. To represent the situations that occur in its operation, tests were made with train braking. The results of monitoring the bottom cross section of column P15 of the bridge are presented. Based on the obtained data, the deformations occurring during the tests are verified against the calculated values obtained by the FEM method and those prescribed by NBR 7187(2003). The comparison between the real behavior of the structure, recorded experimentally through extensometry, and the numerical forecast and its assumptions from the project conceived was done. From this comparison, it verified that the value of longitudinal force due to braking recommended by the standard is appropriate.