bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Practice of Flash Point Determination: A Laboratory Resource
Authors: White Edmund W. , Montemayor Rey G.
Published: August 2013

Description

Satisfy:

Flash point defines petroleum product quality. This user's guide compares commonly used flash point apparatus and procedures and provides general guidance in the use and interpretation of standard ASTM flash point methods, including:

Chapters cover:

The manual is intended for those who run the flash point tests or for the users of the results of such tests. This includes lab technicians in testing laboratories, trucking, railway, aviation, shipping and warehousing of volatile materials to determine if they get what they ordered based on the flash point and the volatility of the materials. Also for businesses that receive DOT/EPA regulated petroleum products and refinery labs.
Experimental Study on Dynamic Properties of Clay Modified by Aught-Set Solidifying Agent Subjected to Freeze-Thaw Cycles
Authors: Liu Jiankun , Zhang Jiannan , Chen Mengqiao , Wang Tianliang
Published: August 2013

Clay modified by a solidifying agent has been used in the recent construction of high-speed rails in northern China because of a lack of good fill material. In this study, the dynamic properties of a clay modified by “aught-set” solidifying agent (a Chinese product) subjected to freeze-thaw cycles were analyzed. Dynamic triaxial tests were carried out on clay modified by aught-set solidifying agent that had been subjected to freeze-thaw cycles. The variation of the critical dynamic stress (CDS) with the cycles and freezing temperature during freeze-thaw was obtained. The results show that the CDS of modified clay decreased with the number of freeze-thaw cycles and decreasing freezing temperature.
Properties of Elastic Waves in Sand–Silt Mixtures Due to Freezing
Authors: Park Jung-Hee , Lee Jong-Sub , Hong Seung-Seo , Kim YoungSeok
Published: August 2013

The freezing of soil converts a particulate medium into a continuous solid bonded by ice bridging. The objective of this study is to investigate the property changes in elastic waves, including shear and compressional waves, in a sand–silt mixture during soil freezing, using bender elements and piezo disk elements. Experiments are performed in a small freezing cell, which is designed to freeze soil specimens from top to bottom. Bender elements and piezo disk elements are used for the generation and detection of the shear and compressional waves. Two pairs of bender elements and two pairs of piezo disk elements are installed in the walls of the freezing cell at two different depths. A sand–silt mixture, with a silt fraction of 10 % and a degree of saturation of 40 %, is frozen in a freezer. As the temperature of a specimen drops from 20°C to −10°C, the velocities, resonant frequencies, and amplitudes of shear and compressional waves are continuously monitored. Experimental results show that the properties of the elastic waves change markedly as the specimen is freezing; the velocities of the shear and compressional waves dramatically increase. Poisson's ratio continuously decreases with the decrease in temperature, and becomes constant after soil freezing. In addition, huge increases are observed in the resonant frequencies of both elastic waves. This study demonstrates that the dramatic increases in both velocity and resonant frequency result from the ice bonding of the particulate mixture as a result of freezing of the pore moisture.
Genetic Architecture of Parallel Pelvic Reduction in Ninespine Sticklebacks
Authors: Shikano Takahito , Laine Veronika N , Herczeg Gábor , Vilkki Johanna , Merilä Juha
Published: August 2013

Teleost fish genomes are known to be evolving faster than those of other vertebrate taxa. Thus, fish are suited to address the extent to which the same vs. different genes are responsible for similar phenotypic changes in rapidly evolving genomes of evolutionary independent lineages. To gain insights into the genetic basis and evolutionary processes behind parallel phenotypic changes within and between species, we identified the genomic regions involved in pelvic reduction in Northern European ninespine sticklebacks (Pungitius pungitius) and compared them to those of North American ninespine and threespine sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus). To this end, we conducted quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping using 283 F2 progeny from an interpopulation cross. Phenotypic analyses indicated that pelvic reduction is a recessive trait and is inherited in a simple Mendelian fashion. Significant QTL for pelvic spine and girdle lengths were identified in the region of the Pituitary homeobox transcription factor 1 (Pitx1) gene, also responsible for pelvic reduction in threespine sticklebacks. The fact that no QTL was observed in the region identified in the mapping study of North American ninespine sticklebacks suggests that an alternative QTL for pelvic reduction has emerged in this species within the past 1.6 million years after the split between Northern European and North American populations. In general, our study provides empirical support for the view that alternative genetic mechanisms that lead to similar phenotypes can evolve over short evolutionary time scales.
Practical Considerations Regarding the Use of Genotype and Pedigree Data to Model Relatedness in the Context of Genome-Wide Association Studies
Authors: Cheng Riyan , Parker Clarissa C , Abney Mark , Palmer Abraham A
Published: August 2013

Genome-wide association studies of complex traits often are complicated by relatedness among individuals. Ignoring or inappropriately accounting for relatedness often results in inflated type I error rates. Either genotype or pedigree data can be used to estimate relatedness for use in mixed-models when undertaking quantitative trait locus mapping. We performed simulations to investigate methods for controlling type I error and optimizing power considering both full and partial pedigrees and, similarly, both sparse and dense marker coverage; we also examined real data sets. (1) When marker density was low, estimating relatedness by genotype data alone failed to control the type I error rate; (2) this was resolved by combining both genotype and pedigree data. (3) When sufficiently dense marker data were used to estimate relatedness, type I error was well controlled and power increased; however, (4) this was only true when the relatedness was estimated using genotype data that excluded genotypes on the chromosome currently being scanned for a quantitative trait locus.
Nutritional Control of Epigenetic Processes in Yeast and Human Cells
Authors: Sadhu Meru J , Guan Qiaoning , Li Fei , Sales-Lee Jade , Iavarone Anthony T , Hammond Ming C , Cande W Zacheus , Rine Jasper
Published: August 2013

The vitamin folate is required for methionine homeostasis in all organisms. In addition to its role in protein synthesis, methionine is the precursor to S-adenosyl-methionine (SAM), which is used in myriad cellular methylation reactions, including all histone methylation reactions. Here, we demonstrate that folate and methionine deficiency led to reduced methylation of lysine 4 of histone H3 (H3K4) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The effect of nutritional deficiency on H3K79 methylation was less pronounced, but was exacerbated in S. cerevisiae carrying a hypomorphic allele of Dot1, the enzyme responsible for H3K79 methylation. This result suggested a hierarchy of epigenetic modifications in terms of their susceptibility to nutritional limitations. Folate deficiency caused changes in gene transcription that mirrored the effect of complete loss of H3K4 methylation. Histone methylation was also found to respond to nutritional deficiency in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe and in human cells in culture.
Genetic Mapping and Genomic Selection Using Recombination Breakpoint Data
Authors: Xu Shizhong
Published: August 2013

The correct models for quantitative trait locus mapping are the ones that simultaneously include all significant genetic effects. Such models are difficult to handle for high marker density. Improving statistical methods for high-dimensional data appears to have reached a plateau. Alternative approaches must be explored to break the bottleneck of genomic data analysis. The fact that all markers are located in a few chromosomes of the genome leads to linkage disequilibrium among markers. This suggests that dimension reduction can also be achieved through data manipulation. High-density markers are used to infer recombination breakpoints, which then facilitate construction of bins. The bins are treated as new synthetic markers. The number of bins is always a manageable number, on the order of a few thousand. Using the bin data of a recombinant inbred line population of rice, we demonstrated genetic mapping, using all bins in a simultaneous manner. To facilitate genomic selection, we developed a method to create user-defined (artificial) bins, in which breakpoints are allowed within bins. Using eight traits of rice, we showed that artificial bin data analysis often improves the predictability compared with natural bin data analysis. Of the eight traits, three showed high predictability, two had intermediate predictability, and two had low predictability. A binary trait with a known gene had predictability near perfect. Genetic mapping using bin data points to a new direction of genomic data analysis.
Heritable Gene Knockout in Caenorhabditis elegans by Direct Injection of Cas9–sgRNA Ribonucleoproteins
Authors: Cho Seung Woo , Lee Jihyun , Carroll Dana , Kim Jin-Soo , Lee Junho
Published: August 2013

We present a novel method of targeted gene disruption that involves direct injection of recombinant Cas9 protein complexed with guide RNA into the gonad of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Biallelic mutants were recovered among the F1 progeny, demonstrating the high efficiency of this method.
Heritable Custom Genomic Modifications in Caenorhabditis elegans via a CRISPR–Cas9 System
Authors: Tzur Yonatan B , Friedland Ari E , Nadarajan Saravanapriah , Church George M , Calarco John A , Colaiácovo Monica P
Published: August 2013

We adapted the CRISPR–Cas9 system for template-mediated repair of targeted double-strand breaks via homologous recombination in Caenorhabditis elegans, enabling customized and efficient genome editing. This system can be used to create specific insertions, deletions, and base pair changes in the germline of C. elegans.
CRISPR/Cas9-Targeted Mutagenesis in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Waaijers Selma , Portegijs Vincent , Kerver Jana , Lemmens Bennie B L G , Tijsterman Marcel , van den Heuvel Sander , Boxem Mike
Published: August 2013

The generation of genetic mutants in Caenorhabditis elegans has long relied on the selection of mutations in large-scale screens. Directed mutagenesis of specific loci in the genome would greatly speed up analysis of gene function. Here, we adapt the CRISPR/Cas9 system to generate mutations at specific sites in the C. elegans genome.
Severe Early-Onset Colitis Revealing Mevalonate Kinase Deficiency
Authors: Levy Michael , Arion Alina , Berrebi Dominique , Cuisset Laurence , Jeanne-Pasquier Corinne , Bader-Meunier Brigitte , Jung Camille
Published: August 2013

Hyperimmunoglobulinemia D is the less severe form of mevalonate kinase deficiency (MKD) caused by recessive inherited mutation in the mevalonate kinase gene. Hyperimmunoglobulinemia D is characterized by febrile attacks, often associated with transient digestive manifestations, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting. Here we report for the first time 2 patients with MKD revealed by severe neonatal colitis. Both patients had chronic bloody diarrhea and failure to thrive; 1 patient since the age of 1 month and the other since the age of 12 days. Total parenteral nutrition was required. A marked elevation of acute phase reactants was present, and no evidence of infection was found. In patient 1, ileocolonoscopy revealed ulcerative colitis at the age of 5 months. Patient 2 suffered from enterocolitis and shock, associated with multiple bowel adhesions at age 5 weeks; the rectosigmoidoscopy showed aphtoid lesions of the sigmoid colon. Pathologic findings of colonic biopsies revealed a dense polymorph inflammatory infiltrate associated with deep ulcerations. Febrile attacks occurred 2 months after the onset of digestive symptoms in patient 1, and at onset of disease in patient 2. Genomic sequencing of the mevalonate kinase gene revealed compound heterozygous mutations in both patients. Anti-interleukin-1 agent produced long-term remission of all digestive features and laboratory parameters. This report emphasizes that MKD may be the cause of severe early-onset inflammatory colitis, and must be considered by physicians, even in the absence of fever, after ruling out infections. Anti-interleukin-1 therapy may result in a dramatic improvement of MKD-related inflammatory bowel disease.
Autistic Traits in Children With and Without ADHD
Authors: Kotte Amelia , Joshi Gagan , Fried Ronna , Uchida Mai , Spencer Andrea , Woodworth K. Yvonne , Kenworthy Tara , Faraone Stephen V. , Biederman Joseph
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the implications of autistic traits (ATs) in youth with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) without a diagnosis of autism.

METHODS:

Participants were youth with (n = 242) and without (n = 227) ADHD and controls without ADHD in whom a diagnosis of autism was exclusionary. Assessment included measures of psychiatric, psychosocial, educational, and cognitive functioning. ATs were operationalized by using the withdrawn + social + thought problems T scores from the Child Behavior Checklist.

RESULTS:

A positive AT profile was significantly overrepresented among ADHD children versus controls (18% vs 0.87%; P < .001). ADHD children with the AT profile were significantly more impaired than control subjects in psychopathology, interpersonal, school, family, and cognitive domains.

CONCLUSIONS:

A substantial minority of ADHD children manifests ATs, and those exhibiting ATs have greater severity of illness and dysfunction.
Nurse and Physician Agreement in the Assessment of Minor Blunt Head Trauma
Authors: Nigrovic Lise E. , Schonfeld Deborah , Dayan Peter S. , Fitz Brianna M. , Mitchell Shannon R. , Kuppermann Nathan
Published: August 2013

OBJECTIVE:

The Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN) traumatic brain injury (TBI) clinical prediction rules identify children with minor blunt head trauma who are at low risk for clinically important traumatic brain injuries. We measured the agreement between the registered nurse (RN) and physician (MD) assessments.

METHODS:

We performed a cross-sectional study of all children <18 years of age with minor blunt head trauma who presented to a single emergency department. RNs and MDs independently assessed each child and recorded age-based PECARN predictors. As symptoms can change over time, we included cases only when both evaluations were completed within 60 minutes. We used the κ statistic to measure RN-MD agreement, with the main analysis focusing on the overall PECARN rule agreement.

RESULTS:

Of the 1624 eligible children, 1191 (73%) had evaluations completed by both RN and ED providers, of which 437 (37%) were in children <2 years of age. The median time between completions of the provider forms was 12 minutes (interquartile range 4–25 minutes). The overall agreement between the RN and MD was higher for the older children (κ 0.55, 95% confidence interval 0.49–0.61 for children 2–18 years versus κ 0.32, 95% confidence interval 0.23–0.41 for children <2 years).

CONCLUSIONS:

The overall agreement between RN and MD for the PECARN TBI prediction rules was moderate for older children and fair for younger children. Initial RN assessments should be verified by the MD before clinical application, especially for the youngest children.
Solvothermal processes in Materials Synthesis
Authors: Demazeau Gérard , Goglio Graziella , Largeteau Alain
Published: August 2013

A solvothermal reaction can be described as a chemical reaction involving a solvent either in subcritical or supercritical conditions between different precursors. Such a solvent can act as a chemical component or a fluid phase able, through its physico-chemical properties, to induce the synthesis reactions. During the last fifteen years, solvothermal reactions have been used in different scientific areas involving basic or applied research. Several domains have been developed in Materials Chemistry: (i) the synthesis of novel materials, (ii) the development of new low temperature processes able to prepare functional materials, and in Materials Science: (i) new crystal growth processes, (ii) thin film deposition and (iii) sintering processes at low temperature. In Materials Chemistry three illustrations are described: (i) the synthesis through “geomimetism” of a new family of layered oxides: the phyllosiloxides, (ii) the synthesis of inorganic-organic materials, (iii) the potential of solvothermal processes for producing c-BN.
Immunohistochemical evaluation of MMP-2, MMP-9 and CD31/microvascular density in squamous cell carcinomas of the floor of the mouth
Authors: Monteiro-Amado Flávio , Castro-Silva Igor Iuco , Lima Cristina Jardelino de , Soares Fernando Augusto , Kowalski Luiz Paulo , Granjeiro José Mauro
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the immunoexpression of MMP-2, MMP-9 and CD31/microvascular density in squamous cell carcinomas of the floor of the mouth and to correlate the results with demographic, survival, clinical (TNM staging) and histopathological variables (tumor grade, perineural invasion, embolization and bone invasion). Data from medical records and diagnoses of 41 patients were reviewed. Histological sections were subjected to immunostaining using primary antibodies for human MMP-2, MMP-9 and CD31 and streptavidin-biotin-immunoperoxidase system. Histomorphometric analyses quantified positivity for MMPs (20 fields per slide, 100 points grade, ×200) and for CD31 (microvessels <50 µm in the area of the highest vascularization, 5 fields per slide, 100 points grade, ×400). Statistical design was composed by non-parametric Mann-Whitney U test (investigating the association between numerical variables and immunostainings), chi-square frequency test (in contingency tables), Fisher's exact test (when at least one expected frequency was less than 5 in 2×2 tables), Kaplan-Meier method (estimated probabilities of overall survival) and Iogrank test (comparison of survival curves), all with a significance level of 5%. There was a statistically significant correlation between immunostaining for MMP-2 and lymph node metastasis. Factors associated negatively with survival were N stage, histopathological grade, perineural invasion and immunostaining for MMP-9. There was no significant association between immunoexpression of CD31 and the other variables. The intensity of immunostaining for MMP-2 can be indicative of metastasis in lymph nodes and for MMP-9 of a lower probability of survival.
Identification of occlusal prematurity by clinical examination and cone-beam computed tomography
Authors: Machado Naila Aparecida de Godoi , Henriques João César Guimarães , Lelis Éverton Ribeiro , Tavares Marcelo , Almeida Guilherme de Araújo , Fernandes Neto Alfredo Júlio
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability to identify occlusal prematurity by images from paraxial slices of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). For such purpose, a pilot study was performed in which 16 asymptomatic young patients were subjected to a clinical examination, including a careful occlusal analysis and then individual deprogrammer devices (“Lucia's JIG”) were fabricated. Premature contacts were clinically identified in centric relation (CR) for each patient by jaw manipulation and interocclusal marking with articulating paper (Accufilm). Subsequently, these devices were adjusted in CR and used during the tomographic exams in such a way that CBCT in CR could be obtained. After routine processing, the images were analyzed in order to identify occlusal prematurity on the displayed images by 30 professionals divided according to areas of activity (occlusion specialist, general practitioner and radiologist; n=10 per area) and time of professional experience (less than 5, between 5 and 10, and over 10 years). By comparing the premature contacts identified in the clinical analysis and CBCT images, an agreement index between these two variables was calculated. Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Scott-Knott test (α=0.05). The results showed that the identification of occlusal prematurity by paraxial CBCT slices was proven to be a method of average reliability.
Intracanal medications versus placebo in reducing postoperative endodontic pain – a double – blind randomized clinical trial
Authors: Singh Ripu Daman , Khatter Ramneek , Bal Rupam Kaur , Bal C.S.
Published: August 2013

This prospective randomized, double-blind factorial study aimed to compare the efficacy of three different intracanal medicaments with the placebo in controlling the postoperative pain after complete root canal preparation. The study was performed on 64 mandibular molars of 64 patients with diagnosis of pulp necrosis and acute apical periodontitis. After chemomechanical procedures using the stepback technique and 1% sodium hypochlorite, the teeth were randomized into four treatment groups (n=16). In group I, canals were filled with calcium hydroxide paste mixed with 2% chlorhexidine gel, group II received 2% chlorhexidine gel, group III was treated with calcium hydroxide paste, and group IV received no dressing (control). Before dismissal, preoperative pain experience was recorded using a visual analog pain scale. Patients were then instructed to quantify the degree of pain experienced 4 h after treatment and daily for a further 24, 48, 72 and 96 h. Two-way repeated measures ANOVA test and post hoc Tukey's HSD test revealed that at each time interval groups I and II were significantly more effective in reducing the postoperative pain values than groups III and IV (p<0.05). Dunnett's test showed that groups I and II differed significantly from control whereas difference between group III and control was not significant (p>0.05). Patients with pulp necrosis and acute apical periodontitis that had been dressed with chlorhexidine alone and calcium hydroxide plus chlorhexidine gave rise to less pain than that experienced by patients who had a calcium hydroxide dressing alone or no dressing at all.
Estimation of Toothpaste Fluoride Intake in Preschool Children
Authors: Nascimento Helena Aguiar Ribeiro do , Ferreira Jainara Maria Soares , Granville-Garcia Ana Flávia , Costa Edja Maria Melo de Brito , Cavalcante Ana Lúcia Almeida , Sampaio Fábio Correia
Published: August 2013

The objective of this study was to estimate the intake of toothpaste fluoride used by children aged 2 to 6 years (n=87) treated at a hospital of a medium-sized city (Campina Grande, PB) in the Northeastern region of Brazil. Data regarding sociodemographic characteristics of families and children's toothbrushing were collected from questionnaire-based interviews with parents/guardians, and the amount of fluoride used during toothbrushing was estimated using a precision scale for assessment of the risk of dental fluorosis, considering a cutoff value of 0.07 mgF/kg body weight/day. Fluoride content in the toothpastes was analyzed using a specific fluoride electrode. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics using the chi-square and Fisher's exact tests (α=0.05). Considering the use of the derice, the risk of fluorosis in the children was 19.5%. There was significant association (p<0.05) between the risk of fluorosis, brushing frequency, type of derice and who performed the child's oral hygiene. It was concluded that a high percentage of children in the studied sample used toothpaste inappropriately and were at risk of developing dental fluorosis.
In Vitro Cytotoxicity of White MTA, MTA Fillapex® and Portland Cement on Human Periodontal Ligament Fibroblasts
Authors: Yoshino Patrícia , Nishiyama Celso Kenji , Modena Karin Cristina da Silva , Santos Carlos Ferreira , Sipert Carla Renata
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to compare the in vitro cytotoxicity of white mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA), MTA Fillapex® and Portland cement (PC) on human cultured periodontal ligament fibroblasts. Periodontal ligament fibroblast culture was established and the cells were used for cytotoxic tests after the fourth passage. Cell density was set at 1.25 X10 4 cells/well in 96-well plates. Endodontic material extracts were prepared by placing sealer/cement specimens (5X3mm) in 1mL of culture medium for 72 h. The extracts were then serially two-fold diluted and inserted into the cell-seeded wells for 24, 48 and 72 h. MTT assay was employed for analysis of cell viability. Cell supernatants were tested for nitric oxide using the Griess reagent system. MTA presented cytotoxic effect in undiluted extracts at 24 and 72 h. MTA Fillapex® presented the highest cytotoxic levels with important cell viability reduction for pure extracts and at ½ and ¼ dilutions. In this study, PC did not induce alterations in fibroblast viability. Nitric oxide was detected in extract-treated cell supernatants and also in the extracts only, suggesting presence of nitrite in the soluble content of the tested materials. In the present study, MTA Fillapex displayed the highest cytotoxic effect on periodontal ligament fibroblasts followed by white MTA and PC.
Anterior and medial angulations of the styloid process in subjects with TMD: clinical and radiographic findings
Authors: Mazzetto Marcelo Oliveira , Andrade Kelly Machado de , Magri Laís Valencise , Rodrigues Carolina Almeida , Watanabe Plauto Christopher Aranha
Published: August 2013

This study investigated the existence of association between the angulation of the styloid process on the anterior and medial directions with the intensity of temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD) symptoms. Fifty patients (8 men and 42 women) aged 25 to 70 years, with relevant TMD symptoms were evaluated. Clinical examinations were performed to determine the severity of TMD symptoms (orofacial pain, headache, tinnitus and dizziness) based on the RDC/TMD criteria and the visual analogue scale (VAS), and digital radiographic images of the styloid process were obtained: lateral cephalometric skull radiograph (analysis of anterior angulation) and posteroanterior skull radiograph (reverse Towne's projection) (analysis of medial angulation). The anterior angulation average of the styloid process was 20.89° while the medial angulation average was 19.1° in the right side and 19.04° in the left side. There was no statistically significant difference among the patient groups (severe, moderate and mild symptoms) associating the TMD symptoms and the anterior or medial angulation of the styloid process (p>0.05). There was no correlation between the intensity of the TMD symptoms and the measurements of anterior and medial angulation of the styloid process using either lateral cephalometric or posteroanterior radiographs (reverse Towne's projection).
Effect of Fluoride-Treated Enamel on Indirect Cytotoxicity of a 16% Carbamide Peroxide Bleaching Gel to Pulp Cells
Authors: Soares Diana Gabriela , Ribeiro Ana Paula Dias , Lima Adriano Fonseca , Sacono Nancy Tomoko , Hebling Josimeri , Costa Carlos Alberto de Souza
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibility of fluoride solutions applied to enamel to protect pulp cells against the trans-enamel and transdentinal cytotoxicity of a 16% carbamide peroxide (CP) bleaching gel. The CP gel was applied to enamel/dentin discs adapted to aicial pulp chambers (8 h/day) during 1, 7 or 14 days, followed by fluoride (0.05% or 0.2%) application for 1 min. The extracts (culture medium in contact with dentin) were applied to MDPC-23 cells for 1 h, and cell metabolism (MTT assay), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and cell membrane damage (flow cytometry) were analyzed. Knoop microhardness of enamel was also evaluated. Data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis tests (α=0.05). For the MTT assay and ALP activity, significant reductions between the control and the bleached groups were observed (p<0.05). No statistically significant difference occurred among bleached groups (p>0.05), regardless of fluoride application or treatment days. Flow cytometry analysis demonstrated 30% of cell membrane damage in all bleached groups. After 14 days of treatment, the fluoride-treated enamel presented significantly higher microhardness values than the bleached-only group (p<0.05). It was concluded that, regardless of the increase in enamel hardness due to the application of fluoride solutions, the treated enamel surface did not prevent the toxic effects caused by the 16% CP gel to odontoblast-like cells.
Cyclic Fatigue Resistance of Rotary NiTi Instruments after Simulated Clinical Use in Curved Root Canals
Authors: Pessoa Oscar Faciola , Silva Juliana Melo da , Gavini Giulio
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study was to assess cyclic fatigue resistance in rotary nickel-titanium instruments after simulated clinical use in curved root canals (40-degree, 5-mm radius curve). Thirty-six RaCe rotary NiTi files, size #5, taper 0.04, were divided into 3 groups: Groups A, B and C with one, three and five cycles of use, respectively. Time to failure was recorded with a stopwatch in seconds and subsequently converted to number of cycles to fracture. The data were analyzed statistically by ANOVA and Tukey's test (α=0.05). Five sets of clinically used files (group C) reached significantly lower cycle-numbers before fracture (mean=197.5 cycles) when compared with one set of clinically used files (mean=309.2) and three sets (mean=287.5). Results showed that the number of simulated clinical uses of RaCe instruments for shaping curved canals affects adversely the fatigue resistance of these instruments after five uses.
O Compêndio de Gramática Hebraica de Espinosa é uma obra more geometrico demonstrata?
Authors: Santiago Homero
Published: August 2013

No prefácio das Obras póstumas de Espinosa, o inacabado Compêndio de gramática da língua hebraica é apresentado como um trabalho que, segundo a intenção do autor, quando concluída, assumiria a forma de uma exposição more geometrico da gramática hebraica. Nos estudos espinosanos, muitas vezes se buscou determinar o aspecto geométrico do trabalho, sobretudo em comparação com a Ética, ou então renegá-lo, afirmando a incongruência de aplicar-se tal método a um objeto, um idioma, inapreensível à geometria. A partir da reconsideração desses argumentos e do estudo de algumas passagens do Compêndio, acreditamos ser possível concluir que a obra era realmente redigida como uma exposição geométrica da gramática hebraica, o que se revela especialmente pela presença de um movimento ordenado e dedutivo a comandar sua composição.
Avaliação da qualidade de vida com o instrumento SF-36 em lombalgia crônica
Authors: Adorno Marta Lúcia Guimarães Resende , Brasil-Neto Joaquim Pereira
Published: August 2013

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a qualidade de vida através dos domínios do Instrumento SF-36 em portadores de lombalgia crônica inespecífica. MÉTODOS: Trinta portadores de lombalgia crônica inespecífica foram aleatorizados para três grupos (grupo Iso (Isostretching), grupo RPG (Reeducação Postural Global) e Iso+RPG), e avaliados quanto à dor e qualidade de vida antes e após as intervenções fisioterápicas e reavaliados novamente após 2 meses de acompanhamento. Após a aceitação do Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido os pacientes foram submetidos a procedimentos como: avaliação fisioterápica através do Instrumento de Avaliação da Coluna Vertebral, Escala Visual Analógica de Dor (EVA), Questionário de Qualidade de Vida através do Instrumento SF-36, antes da 1ª sessão e após três meses de tratamento, e reavaliados 2 meses após o tratamento. RESULTADOS: Mostraram que ambas as técnicas fisioterápicas diminuíram a dor (p<0,001), porém quando foram associadas as duas técnicas (Iso + RPG) a melhora da dor foi significativamente maior, e na avaliação após dois meses de acompanhamento o método de RPG foi mais eficaz. Quanto à avaliação da qualidade de vida, as técnicas fisioterápicas foram eficazes após as intervenções (P<0,001), porém o método do Iso foi mais eficaz quando os pacientes foram reavaliados no acompanhamento. CONCLUSÃO: As técnicas fisioterápicas utilizadas neste estudo foram eficazes para tratar a lombalgia crônica inespecífica apresentada pelos pacientes, pois diminuíram a algia que os mesmos apresentavam e melhoraram a qualidade de vida segundo os domínios do Instrumento SF-36. Nível de Evidência II, Ensaio Clínico Controlado e Randomizado.
Cuidados paliativos: a comunicação como estratégia de cuidado para o paciente em fase terminal
Authors: Andrade Cristiani Garrido de , Costa Solange Fátima Geraldo da , Lopes Maria Emília Limeira
Published: August 2013

Os cuidados paliativos compreendem uma abordagem de assistência ao paciente sem possibilidades de cura e sua família, com o objetivo de proporcionar-lhes uma melhor qualidade de vida, a partir, essencialmente, de uma boa comunicação, sobretudo no campo do cuidado ao paciente terminal. O estudo teve como objetivo averiguar como enfermeiros utilizam a comunicação, no âmbito dos cuidados paliativos, ao assistir o paciente em fase terminal. Trata-se de uma pesquisa exploratória, de natureza qualitativa, na qual participaram 28 enfermeiros atuantes em unidades de internação de um hospital da cidade de João Pessoa (PB), no período de agosto a outubro de 2012. Para a coleta dos dados utilizou-se um formulário. Os dados foram analisados mediante a técnica de análise de conteúdo. Da análise do material, emergiram três categorias: "cuidados paliativos e comunicação - relação interpessoal do enfermeiro com o paciente terminal"; "comunicação em cuidados paliativos como estratégia para fortalecimento do vínculo entre enfermeiro e paciente terminal"; e "importância da comunicação entre enfermeiro e família do paciente terminal sob cuidados paliativos." Conclui-se que a comunicação se configura como um elemento eficaz do cuidado com o paciente em fase terminal e é de suma importância para a promoção dos cuidados paliativos.
Percepção dos profissionais que atuam numa instituição de longa permanência para idosos sobre a morte e o morrer
Authors: Oliveira Patrícia Peres de , Amaral Juliana Gimenez , Viegas Selma Maria da Fonseca , Rodrigues Andrea Bezerra
Published: August 2013

O envelhecimento populacional e a falta de cuidadores resultam em uma crescente busca pela institucionalização. A convivência com a morte faz parte do cotidiano de trabalho dos profissionais de saúde, causando-lhes sobrecarga emocional. Objetivou-se conhecer a vivência dos profissionais de saúde atuantes em uma instituição de longa permanência para idosos diante do processo de morrer e de morte. Utilizaram-se os referenciais da Teoria Fundamentada nos Dados e do Interacionismo Simbólico, respectivamente, metodológico e teórico. Foram entrevistados 20 profissionais de saúde, com formação variada. O fenômeno central dos resultados foi: reconstruindo formas para lidar com as circunstâncias de morrer e morte. Originaram-se as categorias: compreendendo a morte como parte da existência humana; buscando adquirir conhecimentos para enfrentar os episódios de morrer e morte; refletindo sobre a própria morte. Sem um terreno propício para o desenvolvimento sistemático do tema, as interações entre os trabalhadores com a troca de experiências sobre morte e morrer permanecerá restrita a um nível subjetivo. Na conclusão, é enfatizada a importância de uma mudança (metamorfose) no contexto institucional e na educação em saúde, com foco mais específico na tanatologia.
Notícias difíceis e o posicionamento dos oncopediatras: revisão bibliográfica
Authors: Afonso Selene Beviláqua Chaves , Minayo Maria Cecília de Souza
Published: August 2013

Com objetivo de discutir e compreender as experiências de oncopediatras diante da tarefa de comunicar notícias difíceis (ND) a pacientes e familiares procedeu-se uma revisão bibliográfica a partir das bases de dados da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS) que contém artigos divulgados por PubMed, Lilacs, Scielo, Scopus e SciVerse, buscando a produção sobre o tema. Os artigos disponíveis, avaliados pela análise temática, evidenciam as seguintes questões: carência de estudos focando a percepção dos profissionais sobre as notícias difíceis; a comunicação como estratégia pela qual, aspectos psicossociais, culturais, bioéticos, legais e emocionais são tratados; expectativa de habilidades médicas para as quais esses profissionais não foram treinados. Observou-se também que informações e treinamento dos profissionais sobre estratégias a cerca dos modos de lidar com a comunicação de ND são insuficientes para acompanhar o dinamismo das ocorrências e das relações pessoais na área de oncologia onde o paciente costuma estar ou sentir-se em constante ameaça de vida.
A educação escolar nas prisões: uma análise a partir das representações dos presos da penitenciária de Uberlândia (MG)
Authors: Oliveira Carolina Bessa Ferreira de
Published: August 2013

Este artigo é fruto da dissertação de mestrado intitulada Para além das celas de aula: a educação escolar no contexto prisional à luz das representações dos presos da penitenciária de Uberlândia - Minas Gerais (MG), desenvolvida no período de 2010 a 2012, no programa de pós-graduação em educação da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia. A finalidade deste artigo é promover uma reflexão acerca da educação escolar prescrita e instituída no contexto prisional, a partir de uma análise contextualizada das representações dos presos da penitenciária de Uberlândia (MG). Objetiva-se contribuir com a compreensão dos limites e das possibilidades da educação escolar nas prisões. Com base na metodologia de pesquisa qualitativa e participante, e com fulcro em uma investigação bibliográfica, documental e de campo, o artigo pretende problematizar o discurso oficial e a realidade vivenciada pelos presos. Os sujeitos da pesquisa foram selecionados aleatoriamente, a partir de critérios de segurança da direção da penitenciária. Os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e grupo focal. Os resultados alcançados mostram que o panorama atual da educação escolar nas prisões tem demonstrado fragilidades, não somente por atingir um número reduzido de presos no Brasil, mas, principalmente, porque a possibilidade de uma ação efetiva de educação nas prisões é sustentada, sobretudo, no compromisso pessoal dos professores, agentes penitenciários e técnicos envolvidos na tarefa. Além disso, predomina-se, nesses espaços, uma visão pragmática da educação escolar, isolada das demais políticas setoriais e relacionada à obtenção de um emprego ou profissão.
Concrete beams fire design using graphs
Authors: Albuquerque G. B. M. L. , Silva V. P.
Published: August 2013

The most expeditious method for the design of concrete beams under fire situation is the tabular method, presented by the Brazilian standard ABNT NBR 15200:2012. Albeit simple, this method constrains the engineer's work, as it prevents him to seek alternative solutions to the few tabulated values. Yet, the Brazilian standard allows employing more advanced methods. Hence, the purpose of this work was to perform a thermal and structural analysis of beams with several widths, heights, covers and diameters/layouts of steel reinforcement (upper and lower). From those results, graphs were constructed, associating the ratio between the applied bending moment in fire over the resistance bending moment at ambient temperature, for the fire resisting time of each situation. These graphs also allow taking into account the redistribution of moments from positive to negative, which will lead to savings in the solution found.
Properties and microstructure of GGBS–magnesia pastes
Authors: Yi Yaolin , Liska Martin , Al-Tabbaa Abir
Published: August 2013

Reactive magnesia (MgO) was used as an alkali activator for ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS) and its activating efficiency was investigated compared with hydrated lime. GGBS–MgO and GGBS–hydrated lime paste samples with different compositions and different water to solid ratios were prepared and cured for different periods. A range of tests was conducted to investigate the properties and microstructure of the pastes, including compressive strength, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy dispersive X-ray and thermogravimetric analysis. The results showed that the reactive MgO acts as an effective alkali activator of GGBS, achieving higher 28-day compressive strength than that of the corresponding GGBS–hydrated lime system. The extensive microstructural investigation indicated that the main hydration product of reactive MgO-activated GGBS and hydrated lime-activated GGBS systems was hydrated calcium silicate, but there was much more hydrotalcite present in the former, which contributed to its superior 28-day compressive strength.
Preparation and application of carbon nanotube nanofluid as a reinforcement of cement slurry
Authors: Nasiri Aida , Rashidi Alimorad , Shariaty-Niasar Mojtaba , Soltanian Hamid
Published: August 2013

The mechanical properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) together with their high aspect ratios have drawn intense interest in their potential for use in composite materials. As common cement slurries are not capable of playing a major role in either preventing the degradation of a cement sheath or improving cement stability in cement-to-formation contacts, the idea of designing CNT-reinforced cements with a high Poisson's ratio, shorter thickening time and less free water and fluid loss came to mind. In this research, the properties of CNT–cement composites, which were synthesised by applying multi-wall CNT–water nanofluids in cement slurry, were thoroughly investigated. The results indicated that the Poisson's ratio of CNT–cement composite with 3 wt% multi-wall CNTs is four times greater than that of the unreinforced cement. Moreover, the free water and fluid loss of the former are 97·5% and 85·0% less than that of the latter.
PCR amplification and DNA sequence of mcyA gene: The distribution profile of a toxigenic Microcystis aeruginosa in the Hartbeespoort Dam, South Africa
Authors: Mbukwa Elbert A. , Boussiba Sammy , Wepener Victor , Leu Stefan , Kaye Yuval , Msagati Titus A. M. , Mamba Bhekie B.
Published: August 2013

Using new polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers, a once known to be under-transcribed microcystin synthetase A (mcyA) gene from the only known toxigenic cyanobacterium Microcystis aeruginosa dominating the Hartbeespoort Dam was consistently amplified from genomic DNA extracted from a set of algal and cell free water samples collected across this dam. In addition to this, five more mcy genes (mcyBCDEG) were also amplified during this study. The resultant mcyA PCR products (518 bp) were purified and sequenced and gave nucleotide sequence segments of 408 bp sizes. The obtained sequence was aligned to the published mcyA gene sequence available online on the NCBI database and resulted in 100% similarity to a 408 bp mcyA gene sequence segment of M. aeruginosa UWOCC RID-1. Furthermore, it was found that the above sequence segment (408 bp) spans from a common base in M. aeruginosa PCC 7806 and M. aeruginosa PCC 7820 from 141 to 548 bp in the N-methyl transferase (NMT) region signifying their closer relatedness to M. aeruginosa UWOCC strains. This study has for the first time amplified mcyA gene consistently from both intracellular and extracellular DNA extracts obtained from algal and cell free water samples, respectively. Sequence data and the amplified mcy genes showed that M. aeruginosa is widely distributed and dominant in this dam.
Short-term microbial release during rain events from on-site sewers and cattle in a surface water source
Authors: Åström Johan , Pettersson Thomas J. R. , Reischer Georg H. , Hermansson Malte
Published: August 2013

The protection of drinking water from pathogens such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia requires an understanding of the short-term microbial release from faecal contamination sources in the catchment. Flow-weighted samples were collected during two rainfall events in a stream draining an area with on-site sewers and during two rainfall events in surface runoff from a bovine cattle pasture. Samples were analysed for human (BacH) and ruminant (BacR) Bacteroidales genetic markers through quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and for sorbitol-fermenting bifidobacteria through culturing as a complement to traditional faecal indicator bacteria, somatic coliphages and the parasitic protozoa Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. analysed by standard methods. Significant positive correlations were observed between BacH, Escherichia coli, intestinal enterococci, sulphite-reducing Clostridia, turbidity, conductivity and UV254 in the stream contaminated by on-site sewers. For the cattle pasture, no correlation was found between any of the genetic markers and the other parameters. Although parasitic protozoa were not detected, the analysis for genetic markers provided baseline data on the short-term faecal contamination due to these potential sources of parasites. Background levels of BacH and BacR makers in soil emphasise the need to including soil reference samples in qPCR-based analyses for Bacteroidales genetic markers.
Assessment of water and seafood microbiology quality in a mangrove region in Vitória, Brazil
Authors: Keller Regina , Justino Juliana F. , Cassini Sérvio Túlio
Published: August 2013

Mangroves are vital part of the local economy for some communities in the region of Vitória, Brazil. Oysters, mussels, and crabs, which are naturally abundant in the mangroves, are harvested and largely consumed in restaurants and by the population. In recent years, unusually high rates of annual gastroenteritis cases have been reported in the region suggesting an association between the consumption of contaminated shellfish and the development of gastrointestinal diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate water samples and mussels collected in the mangrove region using bacterial indicator Escherichia coli and enteric viruses (adenovirus, rotavirus, and norovirus). Our results showed that the region of study is impacted by a continuous discharge of domestic sewage. Although E. coli was detected at low densities in water samples, mussels were shown to be 400 times more contaminated throughout the period of the study. Adenovirus and rotavirus genomes were detected by nested-polymerase chain reaction respectively in 76 and 88% of water samples and 100% of mussel samples. Norovirus was found in 4.8% of water samples and was not detected in the mussels. The screening of bivalves for the presence of health-significant enteric viruses can help in the prevention of outbreaks among shellfish consumers and contribute to improvement of the estuarine environment.