bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hiperceratose epidermolítica: um seguimento de 23 anos de uso de retinoides orais
Authors: Nassif Priscila Wolf , Nakandakari Sadamitsu , Fogagnolo Letícia , Contin Letícia Arsie , Alves Cinthia Janine Meira
Published: November 2011

A hiperceratose epidermolítica é uma forma de ictiose geralmente resistente a tratamentos tópicos. Relata-se um caso de paciente feminina , em acompanhamento na dermatologia desde 1978, com diagnóstico de hiperceratose epidermolítica. Foi tratada inicialmente com queratolíticos, vitamina A oral, ácido tartárico e emolientes tópicos, porém sem melhora no quadro clínico, já que não haviam disponíveis outros tratamentos na época. Em 1986, com o advento dos retinóides orais, foi introduzido o etretinato, e em 1998, foi substituído pelo acitretin, apresentando excelente resposta terapêutica. No momento a paciente está em uso de acitretin 25 mg/dia, completando 23 anos de uso de retinóides orais, com mínimos efeitos adversos e melhora significativa na qualidade de vida
Lipoenxertia autóloga no tratamento da atrofia hemifacial progressiva (síndrome de Parry-Romberg): relato de caso e revisão da literatura
Authors: Alencar Júlio César Garcia de , Andrade Sarah Hanna de Carvalho , Pessoa Salustiano Gomes de Pinho , Dias Iana Silva
Published: November 2011

A Síndrome de Parry-Romberg, também conhecida como atrofia hemifacial progressiva, é uma doença rara caracterizada por lenta e progressiva atrofia de hemiface. O tratamento ofertado para a síndrome, geralmente, visa melhorar o aspecto estético. Os enxertos gordurosos, as injeções de silicone ou as próteses de acrílico são alternativas sugeridas para correção da atrofia facial. Atualmente, a técnica recomendada para correção da atrofia facial é cirurgia dermatológica cosmética com lipoenxertia autóloga. O objetivo deste estudo é relatar um caso de SPR e demonstrar que a cirurgia dermatológica pode aliviar danos sérios à anatomia do paciente, a partir da discussão dos aspectos terapêuticos da síndrome, com ênfase na lipoenxertia autóloga
Lúpus comedônico: rara apresentação do lúpus eritematoso discoide
Authors: Farias Daniela Ferro , Gondim Roberta Marinho Falcão , Redighieri Isabella Portela , Muller Helena , Petri Valéria
Published: November 2011

Lúpus eritematoso cutâneo crônico é doença autoimune, com apresentações polimorfas que podem, eventualmente, mimetizar outras condições clínicas, causando dificuldade diagnóstica. Quadro acneiforme, com comedões e lesões atróficas pontuadas (pitting scars) pode constituir apresentação atípica do lúpus eritematoso cutâneo discóide
Líquen plano hipertrófico disseminado: relevante resposta à acitretina
Authors: Jaime Thais Jerez , Jaime Tatiana Jerez , Guaraldi Bianca de Mello , Melo Daniel Fernandes , Jeunon Thiago , Lerer Claudio
Published: November 2011

O líquen plano hipertrófico é uma variante do líquen plano, com pronunciada hiperplasia epidérmica em resposta à coçadura persistente. Clinicamente, caracterizam-se por placas hiperceratósicas, simétricas, de coloração cinza-violácea, com predileção pela região pré-tibial. O prurido intenso, a refratariedade aos tratamentos convencionais e a possibilidade de associação de um carcinoma epidermoide às lesões de longa duração impõem um tratamento eficaz. Os corticoides são considerados o tratamento de primeira linha e podem ser aplicados topicamente ou empregados de forma sistêmica. Outras modalidades terapêuticas propostas são a fototerapia com UVB-NB ou PUVA, imunossupressores e retinoides sistêmicos, com destaque para a acitretina. Relatamos um caso com apresentação clínica exuberante e excelente resposta à acitretin, totalizando um seguimento de nove meses
Mal de Meleda: relato de 2 casos de ocorrência familiar
Authors: Silva Fernanda Ayres de Morais e , Cunha Thiago Vinicius Ribeiro da , Boeno Elisangela dos Santos , Steiner Denise
Published: November 2011

Mal de Meleda é uma ceratodermia palmoplantar transgressiva rara, com prevalência estimada de 1:100.000 habitantes, descrita em 1826 por Stulli, na Ilha de Meleda. A herança autossômica recessiva foi descrita em 1938 e a alteração gênica no lócus 8qter, documentada em 1998. As principais manifestações clínicas decorrem da alteração da ceratinização palmoplantar. Há intensa hiperceratose transgressiva com eritema também no dorso das mãos e pés com distribuição em luvas e botas O aconselhamento genético faz-se necessário, sobretudo nos casos de consanguinidade. Nosso objetivo é relatar 2 casos de ocorrência familiar de pais consanguíneos
Miliaria-rash after neutropenic fever and induction chemotherapy for acute myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Nguyen Tuyet A , Ortega-Loayza Alex G , Stevens Michael P
Published: November 2011

Miliaria is a disorder of the eccrine sweat glands which occurs in conditions of increased heat and humidity. It can be associated with persistent febrile states as well as with certain drugs. We presented a 40 year-old female with myelodysplastic syndrome and progression to acute myelogenous leukemia who was admitted to the hospital for chemotherapy induction. The patient was treated with idarubicin and cytarabine. She became pancytopenic and developed neutropenic fever and was started on vancomycin and cefepime, but was persistently febrile with night sweats. Five days into her fevers, she developed diffuse, nonpruritic and fragile vesicles together with drenching nightsweats. The patient's exanthem was diagnosed as Miliaria crystallina, most probably induced by neutropenic fever and idarubucin exposure
Necrose adiposa do recém-nascido: a propósito de dois casos clínicos
Authors: Oliveira Ana Cristina Santos , Selores Manuela , Pereira Olga
Published: November 2011

A necrose adiposa subcutânea do recém-nascido é uma paniculite rara do período neonatal. Surge, geralmente, em recém-nascidos de termo ou pós-termo, nas primeiras 4 semanas de vida, e em associação com trauma obstétrico. Caracteriza-se pelo aparecimento de placas ou nódulos subcutâneos duros, localizados ao tronco, nádegas ou coxas. O seu curso é, geralmente, benigno e autolimitado, embora possa acompanhar-se de hipercalcemia, o que obriga a uma vigilância periódica até à resolução das lesões cutâneas. Os autores descrevem 2 casos de necrose adiposa subcutânea do recém-nascido, um num recémnascido de termo, outro num prematuro, ambos associados a partos traumáticos e a sofrimento fetal
Paniculite pancreática como a primeira manifestação de doença visceral: relato de caso
Authors: Souza Fernanda Homem de Mello de , Siqueira Elisa Beatriz Dalledone , Mesquita Lismary , Fabricio Lincoln Zambaldi , Tuon Felipe Francisco
Published: November 2011

A paniculite pancreática, condição patológica rara, acomete 2-3% dos pacientes com doença do pâncreas. Em 40% dos casos, precede manifestações de doença pancreática. Relata-se caso de paciente feminina, 71 anos, surgimento há 1 mês de nódulos eritematosos nas pernas que evoluíram para ulceração e saída de conteúdo amarelado. Sem sintomas abdominais. A biópsia revelou macrófagos vacuolizados e necrose gordurosa representada por áreas anfofílicas, de material amorfo. Exame laboratorial e TAC demonstraram pancreatite crônica. Presume-se que a liberação de enzimas pancreáticas, tais como a tripsina, pode aumentar a permeabilidade da microcirculação e, então, a lípase e a amilase causariam a necrose de gordura subcutânea observada nas lesões. Na histologia, observam-se "células fantasmas" e paniculite septal de início e posteriormente lobular. O tratamento direciona-se a resolução da doença base
AIDS-associated paracoccidioidomycosis in a patient with a CD4+ T-cell count of 4 cells/mm³
Authors: Nogueira Lisiane Machado Contente , Santos Mônica , Ferreira Luiz Carlos de Lima , Talhari Carolina , Rodrigues Rodrigo Ribeiro , Talhari Sinésio
Published: November 2011

We describe a case of a patient presenting with HIV and paracoccidioidomycosis co-infection. At the time of diagnosis total CD4+ T-cell count was 4 cells/mm3. Histopathology revealed tuberculoid granulomas, scarce CD4+ T cells, a moderate number of CD8+ cells and the absence of Foxp3+ cells. Most of the cutaneous lesions healed after two weeks of treatment with amphotericin B. After 14 months the patient is still under antiretroviral therapy and no clinical evidence of recurrence of the mycosis has been observed
Pênfigo foliáceo endêmico refratário na adolescência: sucesso terapêutico com imunoglobulina intravenosa
Authors: Teixeira Talita Alves , Fiori Fernanda Coelho Barbosa da Cruz , Silvestre Marilene Chaves , Borges Camilla de Barros , Maciel Vanessa Gomes , Costa Mauricio Barcelos
Published: November 2011

O Pênfigo Foliáceo Endêmico é doença bolhosa autoimune crônica da pele. Geralmente, o tratamento com prednisona tem excelente resposta, mas existem formas refratárias, sendo necessária terapêutica alternativa. Apresentamos paciente adolescente masculino, com diagnóstico clínico-patológico de pênfigo foliáceo, com forma clínica eritrodérmica grave e refratária a várias terapêuticas, que apresentou evolução satisfatória com imunoglobulina intravenosa. Destaca-se, neste relato, o fato de tratar-se de um paciente adolescente que obteve melhora clínica substancial com imunoglobulina intravenosa e remissão completa da doença, após o quarto ciclo da medicação, possibilitando redução da dose do corticoide e de seus efeitos colaterais
Piodermatite-pioestomatite vegetante: relato de caso e revisão de literatura
Authors: Matias Fernanda de Abreu Toledo , Rosa Dário Júnior de Freitas , Carvalho Maria Teresa Feital de , Castañon Maria Christina M. Nogueira
Published: November 2011

A piodermatite-pioestomatite vegetante é uma rara dermatose inflamatória de etiologia desconhecida, com típico comprometimento mucocutâneo. Relatamos caso de paciente feminina com lesões pustulosas e vesiculosas em axilas, evoluindo com placas vegetantes e pústulas com agrupamento anular. Houve progressão com comprometimento vulvar, inguinal e mucosas oral, nasal e ocular. Proposto o diagnóstico, optou-se por iniciar prednisona 40mg ao dia, com remissão das lesões após um mês de uso da medicação. A associação com doença inflamatória intestinal ocorre em 70% dos casos. A imunofluorescência é um fator que ajuda a caracterizar a doença, sendo tipicamente negativa. A rápida resposta à terapêutica com corticosteroides sistêmicos é esperada
Psoríase eritrodérmica com regressão após profilaxia com isoniazida e terapia antidepressiva: relato de caso
Authors: Redighieri Isabella Portela , Maia Tatiana de Carvalho , Nadal Millena Accetta , Caliman Tatiana Romeu Lorenzon , Ruiz Maria de Fátima Maklouf Amorim , Petri Valeria
Published: November 2011

Mulher idosa apresentou psoríase em placas do tipo grave, com tendência eritrodérmica, e foi submetida a tratamento de acordo com o algoritmo consensual (fototerapia, acitretina, ciclosporina). Resultados clínicos insuficientes, recorrência e agravamento do quadro laboratorial orientaram no sentido da introdução de terapia biológica. A avaliação preliminar revelou PPD de 30mm. A resolução completa das lesões se verificou quando realizada profilaxia antituberculose e administrado antidepressivo
Psoríase eritrodérmica refratária em criança com excelente resposta ao etanercepte
Authors: Fraga Naiara Abreu de Azevedo , Paim Maria de Fátima , Follador Ivonise , Ramos Andréia Nogueira , Rêgo Vitória Regina Pedreira de Almeida
Published: November 2011

A psoríase acomete 0,12% a 0,71% da população infantil, sendo que a forma eritrodérmica, grave e rara, ocorre em menos de 1,5% dos casos. Os antagonistas do Fator de Necrose Tumoral-α (TNFα) constituem nova classe de drogas, utilizada para tratamento da psoríase grave a moderada, refratária às terapias convencionais. O Etanercepte é uma proteína de fusão do receptor do TNF-α, aprovada pelo Food and Drug Administration para tratamento da artrite reumatoide juvenil no grupo infantil. Apresentamos um caso de criança com 7 anos de idade, com psoríase em placa desde 8 meses de vida, que evoluiu para eritrodermia refratária a ciclosporina e metotrexato, com excelente resposta ao etanercepte, sem feitos adversos
Queratose liquenoide crônica: relato de caso
Authors: Martins Livia Cibele Gomes , Horne Marina , Moreira Júnior Dário Nunes , Follador Ivonise , Almeida Vitória Regina Pedreira de
Published: November 2011

A queratose liquenoide crônica ou doença de Nekam é uma dermatose mucocutânea rara da queratinização, com curso crônico e progressivo, que acomete geralmente indivíduos entre 20 e 40 anos. Existem, aproximadamente, 70 casos descritos na literatura. Devido à raridade desta dermatose e à ausência de tratamento efetivo, é uma doença de difícil manejo. No caso em questão, apresentamos um paciente de 42 anos com pápulas violáceas, hiperqueratósicas, algumas confluentes, com aspecto linear, rendilhado e em placas, localizadas no tronco e membros há cinco anos. Lesões aftoides na cavidade oral e úlceras rasas na genitália também faziam parte do quadro. O anatomopatológico foi bastante sugestivo de queratose liquenoide crônica. Introduziu-se tratamento com acitretina e dapsona, havendo melhora parcial do quadro
Reação liquenoide à carbamazepina em mucosa bucal: relato de caso
Authors: Artico Gabriela , Bruno Ingrid S , Seo Juliana , Hirota Silvio K , Acay Renata , Migliari Dante A
Published: November 2011

As reações liquenoides por drogas são mais comuns na pele, mas também podem ocorrer na mucosa bucal. Estas lesões são de difícil diagnóstico por causa de sua semelhança clínica com às do líquen plano oral idiopático. O presente artigo relata um caso de reação liquenoide em mucosa bucal, associado ao uso de carbamazepina, no qual o processo de diagnóstico é enfatizado
Classical Ehlers-Danlos syndrome: clinical, Histological and ultrastructural aspects
Authors: Bicca Eduardo de Barros Coelho , Almeida Fabiano Bonow de , Pinto Giselle Martins , Castro Luis Antônio Suíta de , Almeida Jr Hiram Larangeira de
Published: November 2011

A 12-year-old boy with difficulty in wound healing and scars of unusual appearance was examined. Thin, shiny and protruding skin, characterizing pseudotumoral lesions, was observed on his knees and elbows. Loose joints and increased skin elasticity were also observed. Light microscopy showed rare collagen bundles and loosely dispersed collagen fibers. Irregularly distributed elastic tissue was observed, and transmission electron microscopy revealed disorganized collagen fibers. In cross sections under high magnifications, fibers of varying diameters could be seen, as well as an irregular fiber outline. Scanning electron microscopy of the dermis showed disorganized collagen fibers, which were rarely arranged in bundles. Isolated and crossed-over fibers were also found
Síndrome de restauração imune associada à histoplasmose
Authors: Passos Leny , Talhari Carolina , Santos Monica , Ribeiro-Rodrigues Rodrigo , Ferreira Luiz Carlos de Lima , Talhari Sinesio
Published: November 2011

Paciente masculino, 27 anos, portador de HIV, com quadro de histoplasmose cutânea disseminada. Terapia antirretroviral oral e anfotericina B por via EV (dose total acumulada 0,5g) foram introduzidas, verificando-se rápida cicatrização das lesões após duas semanas. A anfotericina B foi substituída por itraconazol (200mg/dia). O paciente interrompeu voluntariamente os tratamentos. A terapia antirretroviral foi reintroduzida, havendo aumento da contagem de células T CD4-positivas (No restante do texto, a autora usa o símbolo "+" (T CD4+) ao invés da palavra "positiva". O que fazer neste caso? Seguimos o padrão do restante do texto ou acatamos essa opção da autora no resumo?!). Neste momento, diagnosticou-se histoplasmose ganglionar. O aumento da contagem de células T CD4-positivas (de novo aqui), associado à redução da carga viral a níveis inferiores ao limite de detecção após a reintrodução da terapia antirretroviral, sugere que essa piora clínica paradoxal seja uma síndrome de restauração imune
Síndrome de Sweet e policondrite recidivante reveladores de síndrome mielodisplásica
Authors: Diamantino Filipa da Encarnação Roque , Raimundo Pedro Manuel Oliveira da Cunha , Fidalgo Ana Isabel Pina Clemente
Published: November 2011

Certas dermatoses, pertencentes ao grupo das síndromes paraneoplásicas mucocutâneas, podem ser o prenúncio de uma neoplasia previamente não conhecida. Tanto a síndrome de Sweet como a policondrite recidivante incluem-se neste grupo. A síndrome de Sweet e a PR são raramente encontradas em um mesmo paciente. A presença de policondrite recidivante e síndrome de Sweet em um mesmo paciente tem se revelado mais frequente em pacientes com neoplasias associadas, sobretudo hematológicas. Relata-se o caso de paciente do sexo masculino, 79 anos, com síndrome de Sweet e policondrite recidivante, em quem, subsequentemente, foi diagnosticada uma síndrome mielodisplásica
Síndrome stiff skin: relato de caso
Authors: Amorim Adriana Gutstein da Fonseca , Aidé Marcia Kalil , Durães Sandra Maria Barbosa , Rochael Mayra Carrijo
Published: November 2011

Síndrome stiff skin é doença rara, esclerodermiforme, de etiologia desconhecida, caracterizada por endurecimento pétreo da pele, hipertricose leve e limitação da mobilidade articular. Não há tratamento efetivo até o momento. Exercícios e reabilitação são importantes para manter a qualidade de vida do paciente. Os autores apresentam caso de um menino de dois anos de idade com endurecimento cutâneo progressivo desde os oito meses de idade e restrição secundária da mobilidade articular, diagnosticado como Síndrome stiff skin
Tumor triquilemal proliferante: relato de caso
Authors: Cavaleiro Luíza Helena dos Santos , Viana Fernanda de Oliveira , Carneiro Clivia Maria Moraes de Oliveira , Miranda Mario Fernando Ribeiro de
Published: November 2011

Tumor triquilemal proliferante é uma neoplasia incomum que surge do istmo folicular, cuja característica histológica é a presença de ceratinização triquilemal. Apresenta-se usualmente como nódulo solitário no couro cabeludo de mulheres idosas. Descreve-se um caso de tumor triquilemal proliferante que se apresenta como lesão tumoral nodular na região glútea de uma jovem de 16 anos de idade
Uso da ciclosporina em paciente portador de hepatite C e psoríase pustulosa
Authors: Bomm Lislaine , Zimmermann Carolina Cotta , Souto Roberto , Bressan Aline , Gripp Alexandre
Published: November 2011

A ciclosporina tem sido contraindicada nos pacientes com infecções crônicas, como a infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C, devido ao seu efeito imunossupressor. No entanto, estudos recentes têm demonstrado que a ciclosporina suprime a replicação viral e pode, desta forma, não exacerbar a infecção pelo vírus da hepatite C, quando administrada como tratamento para pacientes com psoríase. Apresentamos o caso de uma paciente portadora de psoríase há 30 anos e hepatite C há 20 anos, com lesões circinadas difusas, que apresentou melhora cutânea e das enzimas hepáticas com o uso da ciclosporina, sem apresentar nenhum efeito adverso
Uma análise da mobilidade de trabalhadores qualificados da indústria de transformação brasileira
Authors: Taveira Juliana Gonçalves , Gonçalves Eduardo , Freguglia Ricardo da Silva
Published: November 2011

Este artigo procura analisar, de forma exploratória, os migrantes qualificados que saem de algum município do Estado de São Paulo, entre os anos de 1999 a 2002, quanto às suas características pessoais, como: gênero, idade e escolaridade; as características municipais, como: tamanho da cidade, bem como a intensidade tecnológica setorial. Para tal, é construído um banco de dados a partir da RAIS-Migra do Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego (MTE) que possui a vantagem de acompanhar longitudinalmente os trabalhadores do mercado formal de trabalho. Dentre os principais resultados, verifica-se que a mobilidade ocorre, em sua maioria, para trabalhadores do sexo masculino, mais jovens e com maior escolaridade, além de haver relevante migração para cidades de médio e pequeno porte e de migração intragrupo de acordo com a intensidade tecnológica.
Investigando a hipótese da paridade do poder de compra: um enfoque não linear
Authors: Marques André M.
Published: November 2011

A hipótese da Paridade do Poder de Compra (PPP) é investigada analisando-se a dinâmica de longo prazo da taxa de câmbio real efetiva no Brasil. Com dados mensais, o objetivo principal do estudo é testar a hipótese da PPP com um enfoque não linear. A metodologia empregada baseou-se na aplicação de testes gerais (Keenan, 1985; Tsay, 1986) e específicos para não linearidade do tipo Threshold (Chan, 1990). Seguindo-se a metodologia de Hansen (1999), o estágio seguinte consistiu em testar o número de regimes necessários para descrever a dinâmica não linear da taxa de câmbio real. Os resultados das estimações sugerem a ocorrência de apenas dois regimes distintos, com persistência e volatilidade diferentes. Conclui-se que a hipótese da PPP é apoiada pelos resultados.
Prevalence of breast cancer in the city of Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, between 1988 and 2002
Authors: Martins Edesio , Freitas-Junior Ruffo , Curado Maria Paula , Freitas Nilceana Maya Aires , Silva Carleane Maciel Bandeira , Oliveira José Carlos
Published: November 2011

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Studies have shown increased prevalence rates for breast cancer, relating to higher incidence, longer survival and breast cancer prevention programs among populations. The aim here was to analyze the annual prevalence of breast cancer in Goiânia over a 15-year period. DESIGN AND SETTING: This was a cross-sectional study on women with breast cancer diagnosed in Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, from 1988 to 2002. METHODS: The breast cancer cases were identified in the database of the Population-Based Cancer Registry of Goiânia. The 15-year period was stratified into three five-year periods. The cases were followed up for five years, and the mortality database was used to exclude deaths. The population of the official census was used as the denominator for rate calculations. RESULTS: The coefficient of breast cancer prevalence in Goiania was 22.87/100,000 in 1988 and 220.22/100,000 women in 2002. The analyses for periods showed that in the first period, the rate was 19.39/100,000 and that it was 44.79/100,000 in the last period. For the fifteen years analyzed, the prevalence rate for breast cancer was 127.24/100,000 women. The annual percentage change was 27.07 (P < 0.001; 95% confidence interval, CI: 20.79-33.67) from 1988 to 1992 and 9.39 (P < 0.001; 95% CI: 8.52-10.25) from 1992 to 2002. CONCLUSION: There was an increase in the breast cancer prevalence rate in the city of Goiânia between 1988 and 2002, possibly relating to the improvement in the screening and treatment of breast cancer
Characteristics of ascitic fluid from patients with suspected spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in emergency units at a tertiary hospital
Authors: Reginato Thiago José Buer , Oliveira Marcelo José Andrade , Moreira Luiz César , Lamanna Antonieta , Acencio Milena Marques Pagliarelli , Antonangelo Leila
Published: November 2011

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a complication of ascites, especially in cirrhosis. Ascitic fluid with 250 or more neutrophils/mm³ is an acceptable criterion for diagnosis, even when bacterial fluid cultures are negative. The aims here were to estimate SBP frequency among emergency room patients based on cellular criteria and evaluate the biochemical profile of these fluids. DESIGN AND SETTING: Retrospective study at a public tertiary hospital. METHODS: Laboratory records of patients with ascites attended in emergency rooms between November 2001 and November 2006, from whom ascitic fluid samples were sent to the laboratory due to suspected SBP, were evaluated. The 691 samples included were divided into group A (presumed SBP: > 250 neutrophils/mm³; n = 219; 31.7%) and group B (no presumed SBP: < 250 neutrophils/mm3; n = 472; 68.3%). Patients' sex and age; ascitic fluid characteristics (numbers of neutrophils, leukocytes and nucleated cells); bacteriological characteristics; and protein, lactate dehydrogenase, adenosine deaminase and glucose concentrations were evaluated. RESULTS: Among group A cultured samples, 63 (33.8%) had positive bacterial cultures with growth of pathogens commonly associated with SBP. In total, the group A samples showed higher lactate dehydrogenase levels than seen in the group B samples. The latter presented predominance of lymphocytes and macrophages. CONCLUSION: Among the ascitic fluid samples with clinically suspected SBP, 31.7% fulfilled the cellular diagnostic criteria. Positive bacterial isolation was found in 33.8% of the cultured samples from the presumed SBP group
Canonical and noncanonical Wnt pathways: a comparison between endometrial cancer type I and atrophic endometrium in Brazil
Authors: Menezes Marina de Pádua Nogueira , Oshima Celina Tizuko Fujiyama , Badiglian Filho Levon , Gomes Thiago Simão , Barrezueta Luis Fernando Mesias , Stávale João Norberto , Gonçalves Wagner José
Published: November 2011

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: The Wnt pathway is involved in tumorigenesis of several tissues. For this reason, we proposed to evaluate Wnt gene expression in endometrial cancer type I. DESIGN AND SETTING: Cross-sectional study on materials gathered from the tissue bank of the Department of Pathology, Universidade Federal de São Paulo. METHODS: Endometrial specimens were obtained from surgeries performed between 1995 and 2005 at São Paulo Hospital, Universidade Federal de São Paulo. The material was divided into two groups according to tissue type: Group A, atrophic endometrium (n = 15); and Group B, endometrial adenocarcinoma (n = 45). We compared the immunohistochemical expression of Wnt1, Frizzled-1 (FZD1), Wnt5a, Frizzled-5 (FZD5) and beta-catenin between endometrial cancer type I and atrophic endometrium. RESULTS: Regarding Wnt1, FZD1 and Wnt5a expression, no significant association was observed between the groups. A significant association was observed between the groups in relation to FZD5 expression (P = 0.001). The proportion of FZD5-positive samples was significantly higher in group A (80.0%) than in group B (31.1%). Regarding the survival curve for FZD5 in group B, we did not find any significant association between atrophic endometrium and endometrial adenocarcinoma. We also did not find any significant association regarding beta-catenin expression (P = 1.000). CONCLUSION: FZD5 is downregulated in endometrial adenocarcinoma, in comparison with atrophic endometrium
Lumiracoxib for acute postoperative dental pain: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Silva Ricardo Carvalho Lopes , Riera Rachel , Saconato Humberto
Published: November 2011

CONTEXT AND OBJECTIVE: Lumiracoxib is an anti-inflammatory drug that has been used to treat acute dental pain, mainly in postsurgical settings, in which the greatest levels of pain and discomfort are experienced during the first 24 hours. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of lumiracoxib for treating acute postsurgical dental pain. DESIGN AND SETTING: Systematic review developed at the Brazilian Cochrane Centre, Universidade Federal de São Paulo. METHODS: An electronic search was conducted in the PubMed, Cochrane Library, Lilacs (Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde), SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and Embase databases. A manual search was also performed. Only randomized controlled trials were included, and these were selected and assessed by two researchers with regard to the risk of bias. RESULTS: Three clinical trials with 921 participants were included. Lumiracoxib 400 mg produced onset of analgesia in a shorter time than shown by lumiracoxib 100 mg, celecoxib 200 mg and ibuprofen 400 mg. There was no difference between lumiracoxib 400 mg and rofecoxib 50 mg. In two studies, the mean time taken to attain onset of analgesia for the placebo was not estimated because the number of participants who reached onset was too small. CONCLUSION: There is evidence with a moderate risk of bias that recommends the use of lumiracoxib for acute postoperative dental pain. However, the adverse effects are not completely known. Given that lumiracoxib is currently available in only three countries, further studies are likely to be rare and discouraged.
Testicular adrenal rest tumor in infertile man with congenital adrenal hyperplasia: case report and literature review
Authors: Marchini Giovanni Scala , Cocuzza Marcello , Pagani Rodrigo , Torricelli Fábio César , Hallak Jorge , Srougi Miguel
Published: November 2011

CONTEXT: Synthesis of cortisol and aldosterone is impaired in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) because of 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Men with CAH have low fertility rates compared with the normal population, and this is related to testicular adrenal rest tumors. Findings of azoospermia in combination with a testicular tumor on ultrasound are likely to have a mechanical cause, especially when in the testicular mediastinum. The preferred treatment method consists of intensive corticoid therapy. However, when the tumor is unresponsive to steroid therapy, surgical treatment should be considered. CASE REPORT: We present the case of a male patient with CAH due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency who presented a testicular tumor and azoospermia. Treatment with low daily corticoid doses had previously been started by an endocrinologist, but after 12 months, no significant change in sperm count was found. Although the adrenocorticotrophic hormone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels returned to normal values, the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone and testosterone levels remained unchanged. Ultrasound examination confirmed that the testicles were small and heterogenous bilaterally, and revealed a mosaic area at the projection of the testis network bilaterally. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the finding. Testicular biopsy revealed the presence of preserved spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis in 20% of the seminiferous tubules in the right testicle. The patient underwent testis-sparing tumor resection. After 12 months of follow-up, there was no tumor recurrence but the patient still presented azoospermia and joined an intracytoplasmic sperm injection program.
Cystic brain metastases radiologically simulating neurocysticercosis
Authors: Troiani Charlene , Lopes Carla Cristina Barbosa , Scardovelli Carlos Antônio , Nai Gisele Alborghetti
Published: November 2011

CONTEXT: Brain metastases are common complications of cancer. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the main diagnostic imaging method in these cases, rarely shows cystic images. CASE REPORT: The patient was a 45-year-old woman who had had severe headache for a month that was refractory to medication, and had previously had breast cancer, which had been treated. The MRI showed the criteria for neurocysticercosis. Since there was no improvement with clinical treatment, we chose to excise the lesions. Histopathological analysis showed an epithelioid malignant neoplasm. CONCLUSION: From immunohistochemical analysis, it was concluded that this was a metastasis of breast carcinoma. Even when the MRI is not characteristic of cerebral metastasis, this hypothesis needs to be ruled out in patients with a previous history of cancer.
Oral Pressure and Nasal Flow on /m/ and /p/ in 3- to 5-Year-Old Children without Cleft Palate
Authors: Searl Jeff , Knollhoff Stephanie
Published: November 2011

Objectives

(1) To compare oral pressure and nasal airflow in 3- to 5-year-olds versus older children and adults; (2) to describe stability of these measures in 3- to 5-year-olds at two recording times; and (3) to report participation rates of 3- to 5-year-olds for the aerodynamic protocol.

Design

Prospective, nonrandomized, convenience samples in four age groups.

Setting

University clinic.

Participants

A total of 105 individuals without cleft palate and with normal speech for their age who were 3 to 5 (n = 45), 7 to 9 (n = 20), 11 to 13 (n = 20), or 20 to 30 years old (n = 20). All had normal nasal resonance and absence of nasally obstructive conditions on the testing day.

Main Outcome Measures

Oral pressure and nasal airflow on /p/ and /m/ in syllable series and the word “hamper.”

Results

Oral pressure was significantly higher on /p/ for 3- to 5-year-olds versus the two oldest groups. Nasal airflow on /p/ occurred infrequently across groups. Oral pressure on /m/ was significantly higher for 3- to 5-year-olds versus adults. Nasal airflow on /m/ increased significantly with age. Oral pressure and nasal flow did not differ at two measurement times for the 3- to 5-year-olds. Of the 3- to 5-year-olds, 88% completed the protocol.

Conclusions

Oral pressure decreased on /p/ and nasal airflow increased on /m/ from early childhood into adulthood. Nasal air escape on /p/ occurred rarely for speakers of any age; when it did occur, the magnitude was limited. Most preschool-aged children should be able to complete a velopharyngeal aerodynamic protocol, and measures are stable even for these young speakers.
A Brauer’s theorem and related results
Authors: Bru Rafael , Cantó Rafael , Soto Ricardo , Urbano Ana
Published: November 2011

Given a square matrix A, a Brauer’s theorem [Brauer A., Limits for the characteristic roots of a matrix. IV. Applications to stochastic matrices, Duke Math. J., 1952, 19(1), 75–91] shows how to modify one single eigenvalue of A via a rank-one perturbation without changing any of the remaining eigenvalues. Older and newer results can be considered in the framework of the above theorem. In this paper, we present its application to stabilization of control systems, including the case when the system is noncontrollable. Other applications presented are related to the Jordan form of A and Wielandt’s and Hotelling’s deflations. An extension of the aforementioned Brauer’s result, Rado’s theorem, shows how to modify r eigenvalues of A at the same time via a rank-r perturbation without changing any of the remaining eigenvalues. The same results considered by blocks can be put into the block version framework of the above theorem.
On the diffeomorphic type of the complement to a line arrangement in a projective plane
Authors: Bogomolov Fedor , Kulikov Viktor
Published: November 2011

We show that the diffeomorphic type of the complement to a line arrangement in a complex projective plane P
2 depends only on the graph of line intersections if no line in the arrangement contains more than two points in which at least two lines intersect. This result also holds for some special arrangements which do not satisfy this property. However it is not true in general, see [Rybnikov G., On the fundamental group of the complement of a complex hyperplane arrangement, Funct. Anal. Appl., 2011, 45(2), 137–148].
A theoretical forecast of the hydrogen bond changes in the electronic excited state for BN and its derivatives
Authors: Wang Dandan , Hao Ce , Wang Se , Dong Hong , Qiu Jieshan
Published: November 2011

The relationship between electronic spectral shifts and hydrogen-bonding dynamics in electronically excited states of the hydrogen-bonded complex is put forward. Hydrogen bond strengthening will induce a redshift of the corresponding electronic spectra, while hydrogen bond weakening will cause a blueshift. Time-dependent density function theory (TDDFT) was used to study the excitation energies in both singlet and triplet electronically excited states of Benzonitrile (BN), 4-aminobenzonitrile (ABN), and 4-dimethylaminobenzonitrile (DMABN) in methanol solvents. Only the intermolecular hydrogen bond C≡N...H-O was involved in our system. A fairly accurate forecast of the hydrogen bond changes in lowlying electronically excited states were presented in light of a very thorough consideration of their related electronic spectra. The deduction we used to depict the trend of the hydrogen bond changes in excited states could help others understand hydrogen-bonding dynamics more effectively.
Explicit construction of the classical BRST charge for nonlinear algebras
Authors: Bratchikov Andrei
Published: November 2011

We give an explicit formula for the Becchi-Rouet-Stora-Tyutin (BRST) charge associated with Poisson superalgebras. To this end, we split the master equation for the BRST charge into a pair of equations such that one of themis equivalent to the original one and find a solution to this equation. The solution possesses a graphical representation in terms of diagrams.
On the thermodynamics of phase transitions in metal hydrides
Authors: Vita Andrea
Published: November 2011

Metal hydrides are solutions of hydrogen in a metal, where phase transitions may occur depending on temperature, pressure etc. We apply Le Chatelier’s principle of thermodynamics to a particular phase transition in TiHx, which can approximately be described as a second-order phase transition. We show that the fluctuations of the order parameter correspond to fluctuations both of the density of H+ ions and of the distance between adjacent H+ ions. Moreover, as the system approaches the transition and the correlation radius increases, we show -with the help of statistical mechanics-that the statistical weight of modes involving a large number of H+ ions (‘collective modes’) increases sharply, in spite of the fact that the Boltzmann factor of each collective mode is exponentially small. As a result, the interaction of the H+ ions with collective modes makes a tiny suprathermal fraction of the H+ population appear. Our results hold for similar transitions in metal deuterides, too. A violation of an -insofar undisputed-upper bound on hydrogen loading follows.
Insomnia severity in chronic kidney disease patients with various therapies
Authors: Knezevic Marinela , Djordjevic Vladimir , Bivolarevic Ivana , Jovic Jelena , Djordjević Vidojko
Published: November 2011

The prevalence of insomnia is greater in end-stage renal disease. The aim of our study was to determine the frequency of insomnia and subclinical insomnia in patients with various dialysis therapy and kidney transplant recipients, in order to assess the severity of insomnia and examine whether there is a difference in severity among groups. In cross-sectional study, we evaluated 120 patients with terminal renal failure. Based on therapy, patients were divided into four groups: hemodiafiltration, standard bicarbonate dialysis, peritoneal dialysis and kidney transplant recipients. The severity of insomnia was evaluated through the use of the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI). Most patients who reported any kind of insomnia problems with ISI were on conventional dialysis (80%), followed by hemodiafiltration (76.7%) and peritoneal dialysis (63.3%). Transplant recipients had least difficulties with insomnia (46.7%). Insomnia Severity Index showed that insomnia in end-stage renal patients is not very severe. Most of the patients had “no clinically significant insomnia”. Our findings indicate that patients on hemodiafiltration and transplant recipients have a significantly lower score on Insomnia Severity Index. Patients with end-stage renal disease have high frequency insomnia problems. However, our study shows that insomnia in these patients is not severe. Insomnia is the most frequent and severest in patients on standard bicarbonate dialysis.
Optical forces and trapping potentials of a dual-waveguide trap based on multimode solid-core waveguides
Authors: van Leest M. M. , Arango F. Bernal , Caro J.
Published: November 2011

We propose a novel design of the dual-waveguide trap for trapping and Raman identification of microscopic particles and biological objects in a fluid. The device is based on two embedded Si3N4waveguides launching counterpropagating beams into the fluidic channel of a lab-on-a-chip. For waveguides with a square cross-section of 1 µm2, a 5 µm gap in between and for a 785 nm operation wavelength, we perform finite-difference time-domain simulations of the beam profiles and the trapping forces acting on polystyrene beads (diameter 0.2-1.4 µm). The forces reach values up to 16 pN/W for a bead diameter of 1.4 µm, indicating that the trap is very suitable to trap particles in a fluid. This is confirmed by the trapping potentials deduced from the force curves. The design of waveguides and chip is completely compatible with glass-based microfluidic technology, thus enabling mass production and widespead application, contrary to previous approaches.
Reduction of global interference in functional multidistance near-infrared spectroscopy using empirical mode decomposition and recursive least squares: a Monte Carlo study
Authors: Zhang Y. , Sun J. , Rolfe P.
Published: November 2011

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a sensitive technique that has the potential to detect haemodynamic changes during the performance of specific activation tasks. However, in real situations, fNIRS recordings are often corrupted by physiological phenomena, especially by cardiac contraction, breathing and blood pressure fluctuations, and these forms of interference can severely limit the utility of fNIRS. We present a novel fNIRS enhancement based on the multidistance fNIRS method with short-distance and long-distance optode pairs. With this method empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is applied to decompose the short-distance fNIRS measurement into a series of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs). By utilizing the weighting coefficients for the IMFs, we derive an estimate for global interference in the long-distance fNIRS measurements. We recover the evoked brain activity by minimizing least squares between the long-distance measurements and the estimated global interference. To accelerate the computation we adopt the recursive least squares (RLS) to decrease the computation complexity due to the matrix inversion. Monte Carlo simulations of photon propagation through a five-layered slab model of a human adult head were implemented to evaluate our methodology. The results demonstrate that the EMD-RLS method can effectively remove contamination from the evoked brain activity.
Tridimensional multiphysics model for the study of photo-induced thermal effects in arbitrary nano-structures
Authors: Demésy Guillaume , Gallais Laurent , Commandré Mireille
Published: November 2011

In the present paper, we detail the implementation of a numerical scheme based on the Finite Element Method (FEM) dedicated to a tri-dimensional investigation of photo-induced thermal effects in arbitrary nano-structures. The distribution of Joule losses resulting from the scattering of an incident wave by an arbitrary object embedded in a multilayered media is used as source of a conductive thermal transient problem. It is shown that an appropriate and rigorous formulation of the FEM consists in reducing the electromagnetic scattering problem to a radiative one whose sources are localized inside the scatterer. This approach makes the calculation very tractable. Its advantage compared to other existing methods lies in its complete independence towards the geometric, optical and thermal properties of both the scatterer and the medium in which it lies. Among the wide range of domain of application of this numerical scheme, we illustrate its relevance when applied to two typical cases of laser damage of optical components in high power applications.
Intelligent Design Creationism and the Mechanisms of Postmodernity
Authors: Carbonell Curtis D.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:

This article provides a critical reading of Intelligent Design proponents' attempt to create a wedge in secular society to reinsert a theistic worldview. It argues they assert their wedge via the mechanisms of postmodernity: following Frederic Jameson, those informational elements of mass culture that allow them to present their ideas as an alternate to that posed by evolutionary biology. It centres on a representation (by the philosopher of science Robert Pennock) of Intelligent Design advocate, Philip E. Johnson as a postmodern thinker. This article revises Pennock, claiming that while Johnson does attack modern science in his project to champion Intelligent Design, Johnson is not a representative of many precepts of postmodernity. In particular, this chapter reads Johnson as clearly supporting a Christian metanarrative. Moreover, Johnson is a representative of a strategy formulated by the conservative organization, The Discovery Institute, and their campaign called the Wedge Strategy. Exemplified by an internal document leaked to the internet, “The Wedge” is a clearly explicated strategy to combat secular society.
“What we have here is a failure to communicate”: Same-Sex Marriage, Evangelicals, and the Canadian News Media
Authors: Haskell David M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract:

From the time it was introduced, evangelicals in Canada were fervently opposed to the federal government's same-sex marriage legislation and from 2003 to 2006 several evangelical organizations waged an extensive lobbying campaign against it. To persuade the public and federal politicians to support their position, these organizations employed a sophisticated communication strategy that focused on three core arguments. The arguments, which were worked into speeches, petitions, presentations, letters, and media-savvy talking points, were not based on theological ideals but secular, empirical data. This study content analyzed news coverage from Canada's national newspapers and national television news programs that focused on evangelicals and the same-sex marriage debate. Based on the extant literature it was hypothesized that in their news coverage, in order to mitigate the influence of the evangelicals' position (with which they disagreed), journalists would ignore/omit the evangelicals' three core, non-religious arguments for opposing same-sex marriage. The hypothesis was supported.
Religious Studies and Popular Fiction: What Does Dan Brown Have to Do With the Ivory Tower?
Authors: Scott Mark S. M. , Zuidema Jason
Published: November 2011

Abstract:

In this article the authors discuss the problems and prospects of engaging popular fiction in the academy, particularly in religious studies. Utilizing Dan Brown as the example par excellence, the authors argue that while Brown's novels, particularly The Lost Symbol, appeal to a culture of consumption, they nonetheless afford scholars a valuable opportunity to dialogue with audiences unfamiliar with the academic study of religion. When approached responsibly with the distinctive theories and methods of the discipline, popular fiction has the potential to serve as a productive pedagogical tool to promote religious studies as an intellectually stimulating and culturally relevant enterprise. Rather than ignore or inveigh against popular fiction because of its tendency toward misinformation, sensationalism, and superficiality, scholars of religion should harness the public enthusiasm that these works engender and redirect it toward constructive scholarly ends.
John, Paul, Jorge, and Ringo: Borges, Beatles, and the Metaphor of Celebrity Crucifixion
Authors: Timmons Nathan
Published: November 2011

Abstract:

Although the impact of fame on John Lennon's music and personae has been well documented, issues of celebrity are often overlooked in critical studies of Jorge Luis Borges. However, a comparison of their respective crucifixion narratives, “The Ballad of John and Yoko” and “The Gospel According to Mark,” which were completed almost synchronously in April 1969, illuminates striking thematic and personal similarities between the two writers during a time in which each was experiencing an unprecedented growth in popularity. As such, Lennon's life and music provide important lenses through which one can better interpret the meaning and context of Borges's later work.
Development of microsatellite loci for the endangered species Pityopsis ruthii (Asteraceae)
Authors: Wadl Phillip A. , Dattilo Adam J. , Scheffler Brian E. , Trigiano Robert N.
Published: November 2011

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite loci were developed for the endangered species Pityopsis ruthii and will permit genetic and conservation studies of the species.

• Methods and Results: A microsatellite‐enriched library was used to develop 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci for P. ruthii. The loci amplified perfect and imperfect repeats with three to seven alleles per locus. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.05 to 0.80 and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.23 to 0.75.

• Conclusions: These microsatellite loci provide a sufficient set of markers for further investigation of population genetics of P. ruthii.