bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Avaliação da inclinação do incisivo inferior através da tomografia computadorizada
Authors: Capelozza Filho Leopoldino , Fattori Liana , Cordeiro Aldir , Maltagliati Liliana Ávila
Published: November 2008

INTRODUÇÃO: durante muito tempo, a Ortodontia baseou-se em valores normativos obtidos através das análises cefalométricas existentes, utilizando a telerradiografia em norma lateral como exame principal no diagnóstico ortodôntico, ditando o plano de tratamento. O incisivo inferior, em particular, recebeu normas cefalométricas propostas por diversos autores, dentre eles Tweed. Entretanto, os exames radiográficos possuem limitações, pois, em uma imagem bidimensional de uma estrutura tridimensional, a superposição de determinadas estruturas ósseas e dentárias é constante. O advento da tomografia computadorizada disponibilizou meios diagnósticos mais precisos e confiáveis, principalmente pela possibilidade de obtenção da imagem das estruturas em três dimensões. Nesse contexto, parece razoável questionar os dados oriundos da análise clássica da radiografia lateral da face, com intuito de criar fatores de comparação com dados que passarão a ser gerados a partir da mesma imagem obtida pela tomografia. OBJETIVOS: para isso, propusemo-nos a avaliar o ângulo formado entre o longo eixo do incisivo inferior e o plano mandibular, a grandeza IMPA da cefalometria, na telerradiografia convencional e na tomografia computadorizada. MÉTODOS: dezenove pacientes selecionados para tratamento ortodôntico constituíram a amostra deste estudo, 12 do gênero feminino e 7 do masculino, com idades entre 16 anos e 4 meses e 28 anos e 2 meses. Após a coleta de dados, feita por dois examinadores, análises estatísticas para a obtenção dos erros intra e inter-examinadores foram feitas, utilizando nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADOS E CONCLUSÕES: concluiu-se que a obtenção dos valores para o ângulo formado entre o longo eixo do incisivo inferior e o plano mandibular (IMPA) na telerradiografia lateral é um método confiável para uso clínico, porque embora apresente, como regra, valores menores que os encontrados em tomografia computadorizada, as diferenças não são clinicamente significativas.
Abordagem clínica não-cirúrgica no tratamento da má oclusão de Classe III
Authors: Araújo Eustáquio A. , Araújo Cristiana V. de
Published: November 2008

A abordagem clínica não-cirúrgica da Classe III coloca-se entre os grandes desafios da Ortodontia e vem, desde sempre, gerando controvérsia entre clínicos e pesquisadores. Alguns defendem a tese de que o crescimento e o desenvolvimento do complexo craniofacial são determinados geneticamente e, portanto, inalteráveis. Para esses, a correção da grande maioria de casos de Classe III passará por intervenções orto-cirúrgicas, devendo a terapia ser realizada assim que cessar o período mais ativo do crescimento. Por outro lado, há aqueles que, mesmo concordando com o peso da hereditariedade na etiologia da Classe III, acreditam ser possível modificar o padrão e a direção do crescimento e, através de uma abordagem não-cirúrgica, minimizar a má oclusão ou até mesmo tratá-la com sucesso. Em face da controvérsia, quais seriam as possibilidades ortodônticas? Inúmeros são os relatos de que uma intervenção adequada, em momento adequado, acompanhada de um estudo do padrão familiar, pode, muitas vezes, minimizar o desenvolvimento de uma Classe III. Procedimentos selecionados com critério podem reduzir a indicação de intervenções cirúrgicas e proporcionar resultados positivos e duradouros. Há evidências clínicas e científicas de que algumas decisões terapêuticas podem mudar o curso de muitos prognósticos sombrios.
Systemic congenital lymphangiomatosis
Authors: Souza Ligia Maria Suppo de , Bentlin Maria Regina , Abreu Eliana Souto de , Bacchi Carlos Eduardo
Published: November 2008

Systemic lymphangiomatosis is a rare disease characterized by the exageration of lymphatic channel proliferation, occurring in children and young adults. We describe an extremely rare case of congenital systemic lymphangiomatosis in a newborn who had ascitis and respiratory failure develop immediately after delivery. Death occurred during the first hour of life. Autopsy findings showed numerous cysts in soft tissues of the cervical area, mediastinum and diaphragm, and several other organs including the liver, spleen, thyroid and kidneys. The severe and diffuse involvement with cysts in both lungs by lymphangiomatosis was associated with poor prognosis and death in our case.
Condyloma acuminatum: its histopathological pattern
Authors: Dias Eliane Pedra , Gouvêa Ana Luisa Figueira , Eyer Claudia Carvalhal
Published: November 2008

Condyloma acuminatum is one of the clinical manifestations of papillomavirus infection. The classical histopathological features are already known and do not constitute a diagnostic problem. Clinically, it has been classified into growth or proliferative, full-expression, and regressive or persistent phases, with the histopathological aspects of these distinct phases being well documented in equine cutaneous papillomas. We have designed a protocol of histopathological analysis in order to investigate the possibility of identifying the evolutional phases in human condylomata acuminata. Sixty condylomata acuminata from the files of the Department of Pathology, Universidade Federal Fluminense, were studied regarding koilocytosis, paraceratosis, acantosis, basal cell hyperplasia and mono-nuclear cell infiltrate. After an individual analysis and comparison of the cases, the main differential aspects of condyloma acuminatum were: koilocytosis, transepithelial lymphocytic infiltrate and basal cell hyperplasia. Thus, condylomatous lesions can be histopathologically differentiated in three major patterns: proliferative, viral replication activity and regressive.
Iron stores and coagulation parameters in patients with hypoxemic polycythemia secondary to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: the effect of phlebotomies
Authors: Martinez José Antônio Baddini , Guerra Celso Carlos de Campos , Nery Luiz Eduardo , Jardim José Roberto de Brito
Published: November 2008

This study was designed to determine the effects of phlebotomy on iron body contents and coagulation tests of COPD patients with polycythemia secondary to hypoxemia. Seventeen patients with COPD and hematocrits higher than 54 percent (mean Hct: 57 ± 0.49 percent ), who had not received anti-inflammatory or antiplatelet aggregation agents recently. Their mean forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV1) was 0.92 ± 0.11 L. Intervention: Blood work was collected to evaluate the following: serum iron and ferritin levels, total iron binding capacity, transferrin saturation index, fibrinogen plasma levels, activated partial thromboplastin time, platelet count, platelet aggregation measurements, and thromboelastography coagulation parameters. The blood samples were obtained before and about 7 days after the hematocrit correction by 300-400 ml phlebotomies done every other day. The mean number of phlebotomies done for each patient was 4.4. Postphlebotomy iron serum levels decreased from 90.1 ± 14.8 to 59.7 ± 9.9 mg/dl and the ferritin serum levels from 133.8 ± 37.9 to 70.8 ± 32.7 ng/ml (p< 0.05). Regarding the coagulation studies, there were significant increases in the platelet count, from 227,300 ± 13,900 to 312,500 ± 30,200 per mm³, and in the maximum clot amplitude (a) obtained by thromboelastography ( from 53.6 ± 1.4 percent to 60.4 ± 1.1 percent). The coagulation time (k) of the thromboelastography also decreased significantly, from 7.5 ± 0.7mm prephlebotomy to 4.5 ± 0.3mm postphlebotomy. Although the coagulation changes were small amount, the observed significant decrease in iron contents may have important clinical implications.
Inhibitory serum factor of lymphoproliferative response to allogeneic cells in pregnancy
Authors: Daher Silvia , Fonseca Flavia , Mattar Roseane , Musatti Chloe Camba , Lima Maria Gerbase de
Published: November 2008

INTRODUCTION: An inhibitory serum factor of mixed lymphocyte culture (MLC) has been associated with successful pregnancy after lymphocyte transfusion in women with unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA). OBJECTIVE: Investigate whether the inhibitory serum factor of MLC is essential for a successful pregnancy. METHOD: Sera from 33 healthy pregnant women and from 40 women with RSA were assessed by a one-way MLC in which the woman's lymphocytes were stimulated with her partner's lymphocytes or with third party lymphocytes. RESULTS: An inhibitory serum effect (inhibition > 50% as compared to normal serum) was detected in 45% of the pregnant women who had at least 1 previous parity, in 8% of the primigravidea, in 29% of those with one abortion and in 58% of those with more than one abortion. CONCLUSION: MLC inhibitory serum factor does not seem to be an essential factor for pregnancy development. Therefore, it should not be considered as a parameter for the assessment of RSA patients.
Upper extremity nerve lesions (diagnosis, indications, surgical techniques)
Authors: Abreu Lauro Barros de
Published: November 2008

OBJECTIVE: Revision and questioning of orthodox principles regarding the conduction of nerve impulse. DESIGN: Retrospective study with clinical analysis of results. SITE: Hospital das Clinicas (HCFMSP), public university institution with research programs and tertiary attention to health. GROUP MEMBERS: Author and a team of residents and trainees. OPERATION: Direct suture of nervous stumps utilizing auxiliary technical procedures:- joint-flexion, nerve transposition, tendon transplants, bone shortening. MEASUREMENT: Clinical evaluation and objective tests for tactile and stereognostic function recovery (WeberTest). RESULTS: Variable, depending on preoperative conditions: - type of lesion, time elapsed since injury. CONCLUSIONS: Neurorrhaphy should be the procedure of choice even for long term lesions, although the expected results may be less favourable. Periodical evaluation from 24 hs. postoperative, checking for early undefined signals of nervous function recovery. Association of specific drugs for chemical biophysics of the nerve.
Lymphoblastic transformation of myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Lima Carmen Silvia Passos , Souza Cármino Antonio de , Cardinalli Izilda Aparecida , Lorand-Metze Irene
Published: November 2008

Mielodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are clonal disorders of the hemopoietic stem cell. About one third of the cases terminate in an acute leukemia, usually acute myeloblastic leukemia. However, few cases of transformation into acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have been described. We present a case of refractory anemia that transformed into ALL two months after diagnosis and was successfully treated with conventional chemotherapy. Two years later a hyperfibrotic form of MDS was detected in the patient, that soon after terminated in acute megakaryoblastic leukemia. The course of MDS in the present case provides evidence that MDS can involve a pluripotent stem cell, presenting clonal evolution, documented by successive changes in its clinical and hematological features.
Eletrorrecuperação de cobre e oxidação de cianeto de efluentes cianídricos diluídos gerados por unidade de galvanoplastia
Authors: Pombo F.R. , Dutra A.J.B.
Published: November 2008

Apesar de sua elevada toxicidade, eletrólitos cianídricos são amplamente empregados pelas indústrias de eletrorrecobrimento devido à qualidade dos depósitos metálicos obtidos. Na Casa da Moeda do Brasil, o processo de eletrodeposição de cobre sobre aço carbono é utilizado para a fabricação das moedas de um e cinco centavos, gerando, ao seu final, dois tipos de efluentes: um concentrado, após a sangria de eletrólitos contaminados; e outro diluído, após a lavagem dos discos eletrorrevestidos de cobre. Em um trabalho anterior, avaliou-se a possibilidade de se recuperar eletroliticamente o cobre e oxidar parte do cianeto existente nos efluentes concentrados, alcançando-se bons resultados para os teores finais de cobre e cianeto livre partindo-se de uma solução contendo 26g/L de cobre e 27g/L de cianeto total. O presente trabalho visou testar em escala de bancada uma célula eletrolítica para o tratamento dos efluentes diluídos, partindo-se de uma solução sintética contendo 200mg/L de cobre e 130mg/L de cianeto livre. Nas condições de vazão de 0,37mL/s e a 50º C, alcançou-se concentrações finais de 0,7mg/L de cobre e 0,08mg/L de cianeto livre para uma corrente elétrica de 1,5A, e menor que 0,5mg/L de cobre e 0,08mg/L de cianeto livre para uma corrente elétrica de 2A, após três horas de eletrólise.
Modelagem tridimensional de pilhas a combustível de óxido sólido
Authors: Andrade Samuel Tadeu de Paula , Bortolus Marcos Vinicius , Brant Márcia Caldeira , Domingues Rosana Zacarias , Matencio Tulio
Published: November 2008

A modelagem computacional contribui para o projeto, o dimensionamento e, também, para a avaliação do desempenho de pilhas a combustível de óxido sólido. No entanto, essa modelagem é complexa devido a grande quantidade de fenômenos físicos envolvidos. Além dos fenômenos físicos, as dimensões presentes dificultam a validação dos resultados. Neste trabalho, os canais de um interconector adjacente a um anodo foram modelados visando avaliar o escoamento nesse sistema. A validação dos procedimentos e das considerações foi feita de maneira indireta. O escoamento no interconector foi avaliado através das equações de Navier-Stokes e, no anodo, foi utilizada a Lei de Darcy. A técnica de volumes finitos foi empregada para a solução das equações. Foram utilizados valores típicos de permeabilidade, enquanto viscosidade e densidade foram determinadas numericamente, considerando a mistura de hidrogênio e água. Foi considerado regime permanente e isotropia em relação a todas as propriedades físicas determinadas a várias temperaturas. Foram analisadas as influências no escoamento da razão entre porosidade do anodo e viscosidade da mistura H2 e H2O; da densidade e; da temperatura. Um estudo de como a densidade da malha afeta os resultados também foi realizado. Foi possível notar que, quando a mistura hidrogênio/água penetra no meio poroso, o escoamento sofre uma redução de velocidade, em relação ao valor médio aplicado na entrada. Já a pressão, nessa situação, não apresenta redução significativa.
Efeito de íons aliovalentes nas propriedades elétricas de céria dopada com ítria
Authors: Godoi Glauber S , Souza Dulcina P. F. de
Published: November 2008

A alta temperatura de operação da PaCOS pode causar a formação de fases resistivas isolantes na interface eletrólito-catodo o que contribui para a perda de eficiência da pilha, podendo-se citar como exemplo a formação de zirconatos na interface manganita de lantânio dopada com estrôncio (LSM) - zircônia estabilizada com ítria (ZEI). Outro aspecto importante em PaCOS é o uso de material de eletrólito com uma condutividade iônica maior do que a da zircônia em temperaturas mais baixas. Essa característica é importante para a redução da temperatura de operação da PaCOS minimizando os problemas relacionados com a alta temperatura de operação, sendo Céria dopada com ítria (CY) um exemplo desse tipo de material. Por isso, para o uso de CY como eletrólito em PaCOS é importante avaliar a possibilidade de formação de fase isolante envolvendo esse material e o material do catodo, como perovskitas de lantânio. Para avaliar possíveis reações entre céria dopada com ítria e dois tipos de perovskitas usadas como catodo, LSM and LSCF, foi realizado, neste trabalho, a dopagem de CY com dois conjuntos de íons: La, Sr, Mn e La, Sr, Fe, Co. A dopagem provocou aumento da condutividade elétrica do grão enquanto que a condutividade efetiva do contorno de grão decresceu. Contudo a condutividade total não foi comprometida com a dopagem. A dopagem com La, Mn e Sr forneceu amostra de Céria dopada com Itria mais estáveis em alta temperatura e atmosfera redutora.
Oxidação direta do etanol no anodo de PaCOS
Authors: Venâncio S.A. , Gutierres T.F. , Sarruf B.J.M. , Miranda P.E.V.
Published: November 2008

Neste estudo, foram desenvolvidos eletrodos eletrocatalisadores, a base de céria e Cu, para a oxidação direta de etanol em pilhas a combustível de óxido sólido (PaCOS). Um método alternativo, desenvolvido por Gortes et al [1], foi aplicado para a produção do composto Cu-CeO2-ZEI (zircônia estabilizada com 8% mol de ítria). Inicialmente, foi preparado um suporte poroso de ZEI, a partir de uma suspensão cerâmica contendo pó de ZEI, amido de milho e dispersante aplicada por serigrafia sobre uma das faces do eletrólito denso de ZEI, sendo, posteriormente, calcinada para eliminação dos compostos voláteis e em seguida sinterizada. Na outra face do eletrólito, foi aplicado o catodo multifuncional constituído de um material compósito de La0,8Sr0,2MnO3+δ/ Zr2O3-Y2O3, sendo a primeira camada constituída por um filme de catodo funcional de LSM/ZEI (50/50% em massa) e a segunda, de catodo de LSM puro (La0.8Sr0.2MnO3). Sobre o suporte poroso de ZEI, foram realizadas sucessivas impregnações com solução aquosa de nitrato de céria. Em seguida, da mesma maneira, foram realizadas impregnações com solução aquosa de nitrato de cobre, até obter a concentração desejada, em peso, para cada elemento. O suporte poroso foi caracterizado quanto à microestrutura por microscopia eletrônica de varredura, através da análise de superfície e de fratura, onde foi observada a estrutura porosa formada com o uso das partículas de amido. A quantidade, a morfologia e a distribuição espacial dos elementos foram analisadas por espectroscopia de dispersão de energia (EDS), com mapeamento, mostrando a concentração de Céria, Cobre e ZEI em todo o volume do anodo. A adequação ao uso dos combustíveis etanol e hidrogênio na pilha La0,8Sr0,2MnO/ZEI/Cu-CeO2-ZEI foi analisada através do desempenho eletroquímico quanto ao potencial, em circuito aberto, a densidade de corrente e a densidade de potência.
Avaliação do questionário de controle da asma validado para uso no Brasil
Authors: Leite Mylene , Ponte Eduardo Vieira , Petroni Jaqueline , D'Oliveira Júnior Argemiro , Pizzichini Emílio , Cruz Álvaro Augusto
Published: November 2008

OBJETIVO: Avaliar se a versão em língua portuguesa do Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ, Questionário de Controle da Asma) é um instrumento válido para medir o controle da asma em pacientes adultos ambulatoriais no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 278 pacientes ambulatoriais com diagnóstico de asma. Todos os pacientes, durante a primeira visita, responderam ao questionário, foram submetidos à espirometria e avaliados clinicamente por um médico para a caracterização do controle da doença. Foram analisadas as versões do questionário com 5, 6 e 7 questões, utilizando dois escores distintos (0,75 e 1,50) como pontos de corte. RESULTADOS: Dos 278 pacientes, 77 (27,7%) tinham asma intermitente, 39 (14,0%) asma persistente leve, 40 (14,4%) asma persistente moderada e 122 (43,9%) asma persistente grave. A sensibilidade do questionário para identificar asma não-controlada variou de 77% a 99% e a especificidade variou de 36% a 84%. O valor preditivo positivo variou de 73% a 90%, e o valor preditivo negativo variou de 67% a 95%. A razão de verossimilhança positiva variou de 1,55 a 4,81, e a razão de verossimilhança negativa variou de 0,03 a 0,27. Nas versões do ACQ com 5 e 6 questões, o coeficiente de correlação intraclasse foi de 0,92, e estas versões foram responsivas a mudanças no quadro clínico dos pacientes. CONCLUSÕES: O ACQ, nas suas três versões, teve boa capacidade de discriminar indivíduos com asma não-controlada daqueles com asma controlada. As versões com 5 e 6 questões apresentaram também boa reprodutibilidade e responsividade. Trata-se, portanto, de um instrumento válido para avaliação do controle da asma em pacientes adultos ambulatoriais no Brasil.
Diretrizes para cessação do tabagismo - 2008
Authors: Reichert Jonatas , Araújo Alberto José de , Gonçalves Cristina Maria Cantarino , Godoy Irma , Chatkin José Miguel , Sales Maria da Penha Uchoa , Santos Sergio Ricardo Rodrigues de Almeida
Published: November 2008

Estas diretrizes constituem uma ferramenta atualizada e abrangente para auxiliar o profissional de saúde na abordagem do tabagista, recomendando atitudes baseadas em evidências clínicas como a melhor forma de conduzir cada caso. De forma reduzida e mais objetiva possível, o texto final foi agrupado em dois grandes itens: Avaliação e Tratamento. Os dois itens apresentam comentários e níveis de recomendação das referências utilizadas, bem como algumas propostas de abordagem, como por exemplo, redução de danos, em situações específicas ainda pouco exploradas, como recaídas, tabagismo passivo, tabagismo na categoria médica e uso de tabaco em ambientes específicos.
Amiloidose traqueobrônquica primária
Authors: Santos José Wellington Alves dos , Schneider Filho Ayrton , Bertolazzi Alessandra , Michel Gustavo Trindade , Silva Lauro Vinícius Schvarcz da , Melo Carlos Renato , Pedro Vinícius Dallagasperina , Spilmann Daniel , Figaro Juliana Kaczmareck
Published: November 2008

A amiloidose traqueobrônquica é uma forma pouco comum de amiloidose localizada, caracterizada por depósitos amilóides limitados à traquéia, brônquios principais e brônquios segmentares. Nós apresentamos o caso de um homem aposentado de 67 anos com dispnéia progressiva de longa data, sibilância e dor torácica. O diagnóstico de amiloidose traqueobrônquica foi realizado após três fibrobroncoscopias e confirmação histopatológica com coloração vermelho congo.
The undrained capacity of skirted strip foundations under combined loading
Authors: Bransby M. F. , Yun G.-J.
Published: November 2008

The response of skirted foundations to combined vertical, horizontal and moment loading is important for the design of offshore installations. The vertical skirts beneath the footing interact with the soil and increase the foundation capacity, compared with a surface footing. Previous researchers have assumed that the soil within the skirts remains rigid during undrained loading, but this assumption has not been investigated rigorously. A series of plane-strain finite element analyses has been conducted to investigate directly how the skirt geometry affects the undrained strip foundation capacity under combined horizontal–moment loading and the mechanisms occurring at failure. Conditions of both uniform and non-uniform undrained strength soil have been considered. The results show that deformation of the soil between external skirts can lead to significantly less foundation capacity than that of an equivalent solid embedded foundation. Hence the specific geometry of the foundation must be considered in design. In addition, the failure envelopes for skirted foundations with different embedment ratios differed significantly. This makes general recommendations for failure envelope shapes problematical. Finally, significant increases in foundation bearing capacity may be achieved by adding an intermediate skirt to the foundation, which results in a foundation capacity that is almost equal to that of a solid embedded foundation.
Potential habitat distribution for the freshwater diatom Didymosphenia geminata in the continental US
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Spaulding Sarah A , Stohlgren Thomas J , Hermann Karl A , Schmidt Travis S , Bahls Loren L
Published: November 2008

The diatom Didymosphenia geminata is a single‐celled alga found in lakes, streams, and rivers. Nuisance blooms of D geminata affect the diversity, abundance, and productivity of other aquatic organisms. Because D geminata can be transported by humans on waders and other gear, accurate spatial prediction of habitat suitability is urgently needed for early detection and rapid response, as well as for evaluation of monitoring and control programs. We compared four modeling methods to predict D geminata's habitat distribution; two methods use presence–absence data (logistic regression and classification and regression tree [CART]), and two involve presence data (maximum entropy model [Maxent] and genetic algorithm for rule‐set production [GARP]). Using these methods, we evaluated spatially explicit, bioclimatic and environmental variables as predictors of diatom distribution. The Maxent model provided the most accurate predictions, followed by logistic regression, CART, and GARP. The most suitable habitats were predicted to occur in the western US, in relatively cool sites, and at high elevations with a high base‐flow index. The results provide insights into the factors that affect the distribution of D geminata and a spatial basis for the prediction of nuisance blooms.
Oral cyclosporine A - the current picture of its liposomal and other delivery systems
Authors: Czogalla Aleksander
Published: November 2008

The discovery of cyclosporine A was a milestone in organ transplantation and the treatment of autoimmune diseases. However, developing an efficient oral delivery system for this drug is complicated by its poor biopharmaceutical characteristics (low solubility and permeability) and the need to carefully monitor its levels in the blood. Current research is exploring various approaches, including those based on emulsions, microspheres, nanoparticles, and liposomes. Although progress has been made, none of the formulations is flawless. This review is a brief description of the main pharmaceutical systems and devices that have been described for the oral delivery of cyclosporine A in the context of the physicochemical properties of the drug and the character of its interactions with lipid membranes.
Adequacy of Reporting Results of School Surveys and Nonresponse Effects: A Review of the Literature and a Case Study
Authors: Kano Megumi , Franke Todd , Afifi Abdelmonem A. , Bourque Linda B.
Published: November 2008

To ensure accurate interpretation of research findings, researchers should report details about their research design, data collection method, and response rates when presenting findings from survey research. A review of 100 peer-reviewed articles reporting the results of survey research on K–12 schools with principals as the designated respondents revealed that such information is often not reported. Few studies examined or even acknowledged the potentially biasing effects of nonresponse. A mail survey of 470 schools in California, which yielded a response rate of 33% (157/470), is used as a case study to evaluate the pattern of nonresponse and its effects on univariate and multivariate statistics. Consistent with prior research, nonresponse produced bias in univariate estimates, but associations between variables were robust and not affected.
Experimenting With Teacher Professional Development: Motives and Methods
Authors: Wayne Andrew J. , Yoon Kwang Suk , Zhu Pei , Cronen Stephanie , Garet Michael S.
Published: November 2008

A strong base of research is needed to guide investments in teacher professional development (PD). This article considers the status of research on PD and articulates a particular direction for future work. Little is known about whether PD can have a positive impact on achievement when a program is delivered across a range of typical settings and when its delivery depends on multiple trainers. Despite a consensus in the literature on the features of effective PD, there is limited evidence on the specific features that make a difference for achievement. This article explains the benefits offered by experiments in addressing current research needs and—for those conducting and interpreting such studies—discusses the unique methodological issues encountered when experimental methods are applied to the study of PD.
Das Konzept der Ökologie in der amerikanischen Geographie
Authors: Fuchs Gerhard
Published: November 2008

In recent times, interest in the ecological thought pattern has been revived in German geography by chorological research (Troll/Paffen) as well as by studies in social geography. There is, however, only little knowledge of the fact that a special body of ecological theory was developed in American geography between 1900 and 1930, thus anticipating the spread of ecological thought in European geography. This period is generally neglected in the presentation of the history of geography and mostly restricted to the name of H. H. Barrows, but as a whole deserves the merit of first introducing a certain amount of ecological thought into geographic theory. Theoretical argument during the phase when geography defined itself as 'a science of relationships' centred in the quest for an organizing concept of the newly developed branch of human geography, and later on for geography in general. Human geography, especially after the decline of geographical determinism, had come to emphasize the reciprocal relationships between man (culture) and physical environment, a concept showing obvious analogy to that of contemporary ecologists. Based on this coincidence of concepts, geographers in general looked for models in ecology. This exclusive derivation of thought patterns from the biological sciences originated in the naturalistic learning of the early American geographers as well as in their Darwinistic understanding of man and thus led to a general naturalistic emphasis. In geographic theory, the first one to include ecological thought was W. M. Davis in connection with his concept of "ontography". Discussion was carried on by A. P. Brigham; Ch. R. Dryer then came to identify human geography with ecology in his address before the Association of American Geographers, also introducing again the term “human ecology". The position of H. H. Barrows (geography = human ecology) is widely known but in the light of the foregoing development it can no longer be considered as isolated as most geographers regard it. The rise of cultural geography showed the limits for ecological thought in geography concerning man. C. O. Sauer, in his attempt to close the discussion on that particular subject, simply came to substitute his theory of cultural morphology for human ecology. M. Aurousseau, emphasizing the "community"-concept, was near to the socio-ecological theory of the Chicago school but remained without connection or influence, and D. S. Whittlesey's introduction of the "sequent occupance" study in analogy to plant succession quickly developed into a general genetic treatment of the cultural landscape. - A thorough analysis of the key terms of geographic theory of this time will testify to the special ecological aspect of American geography in the first quarter of this century.
Das Verhältnis der tages- zur jahreszeitlichen Temperaturschwankung
Authors: Paffen Karlheinz
Published: November 2008

Arising from an unpublished world map, on which more than 100 of C. Troll's thermo-isopleth diagrams were accurately positioned, the author had the idea of also areally representing in exact numerical terms the relationship of diurnal to annual variations in temperature which are available for one station within each thermo isopleth diagram (Fig. 1). The result is presented on a world map (Suppl. Ill) on which the isarithms represent the relationship of diurnal to annual variation Ts/Js =Qs and polewards the line of equilibrium 1 the reciprocal value (Js/Ts =Qr).With the help of a nomogram (Fig. 2) and the author's world map of aperiodic diurnal changes (Erdkunde XX/4, Suppl. VIII) or of a map of annual variations we can thus easily determine the corresponding Ts and Js values for almost any place on earth (e. g. Fig. 3). The map shows in the central parts of the continents a pattern of isarithms parallel to lines of latitude, which show a broadly similar characteristic ordering in three continental meridional profiles from Pole to Pole (Fig. 4). The explanation of this is given by the mean value curves for Js and Ts worked out from the same meridional profiles (Fig. 5). Over the oceans, where Js is probably greater everywhere than the very small daily changes (1-2?) here (Fig. 5), the lack of adequate Ts values does not allow the construction of any isarithms. The maritime isarithms shown on the world map are based only on island values. Apart from the sea, the deviant behaviour of the Qs and Qr isarithms in mainland coastal areas also becomes under standable. We can recognise on the world map a contrary east and west coast effect in similar latitudes as a portent of changing climatic zones. The world map of the relationship between diurnal and annual variations of air temperature, as the examples show, allows a very complex discussion of planetary, regional and local climatic problems. It delivers, if not in detail, opportunities for delimiting and characterising climatic zones and regions (inner continental parts of the line of equilibrium as the boundary of the Tropics). Finally, the map is also a key to anthropo-climatological problems (e. g. freezing in the warm tropics where daily temperature variations are large although annual variations are small).
Quaternary stratigraphy of Panchkhal valley, Central Nepal
Authors: Timsina Yadu Nath , Adhikary Prakash Chandra
Published: November 2008

The Panchkhal Valley is one of intermontane basins in the Central Nepal east of Kathmandu with two sets of neo-tectonic lineaments sited from satellite imagery and aerial photographs. One extending NNW-SSE east of the valley results the old Panchkhal Valley uplifting along south during Plio-Pleistocene age and second one NE-SW has ultimately uplifted the old valley. The Panchkhal Clay, Ratopairo Formation, Rampur Formation and Tamaghat Formation are four depositional lithostratigraphical units. Similarly, Tamaghat, Rampur, Thumka, and Chisapani surfaces are depositional and Basukidada, Sano-Tinghare, Sumara-Thulo Tinghare, Dhulikhel, Koiralathumka and Bhamarkot surfaces are erosional morphostratigraphic geomorphic surfaces. Geomorphic terrace cutting level is around 1400-1440 m and all surfaces and deposits above and below are relatively young.   doi: 10.3126/bdg.v10i0.1415 Bulletin of the Department of Geology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Vol. 10, 2007, pp. 1-8
Shallow soil slope instability analysis at horticultural farm, Daman, Central Nepal
Authors: Manandhar Suman
Published: November 2008

Slope stability analyses were carried out for slopes around the horticultural farm at Daman, Central Mahabharat Region of Nepal. Daman lies in the Mahabharat zone with intruded granite as the basement rock. These granites are highly to completely weathered and decomposed to few metres depth from the exposed surfaces. The horticultural farm is situated over these decomposed rocks with some colluvium along the hill slopes. The rainstorm of 19-21 July 1993 devasted the horticultural farm with numerous landslides and gully erosions. Based on the limit equilibrium analysis theory and computed index as well as strength properties of the soil, analyses of three of the failed slopes were carried out. The analyses revealed that slides were unstable only during fully saturated conditions.   doi: 10.3126/bdg.v10i0.1422 Bulletin of the Department of Geology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Vol. 10, 2007, pp. 71-78
Status of sand mining and quality in northern Kathmandu, Central Nepal
Authors: Sayami Mamata , Tamrakar Naresh Kazi
Published: November 2008

Growing trend of urbanization in Kathmandu has increased the demands of sand for building materials of concrete. Demand of sand has been fulfilled from terrace and riverbed mining in northern region of Kathmandu and by importing from west of Kathmandu. Riverbed excavation and some quarries in terrace deposits are illegally operated. Although riverbed excavation is prohibited, majority of the sand comes from such mining. Questionnaire analysis, analysis of secondary data and sand samples were carried out in laboratory to obtain (a) the existing status of sand mining and (b) the quality of sand supplied to the market. About 60% demand of sands have been fulfilled through riverbeds while 40% have been fulfilled through terrace deposits. The Sanla and the Manahara Rivers have been the most efficiently excavated rivers. About 1865 m3 sands from river and 1238 m3 from terraces have been excavated per day. Future demand of sand may increase considering 60% increase of household in the valley. Out of total excavation sites in the valley, 40% illegal sites are located in rivers and 5% in terrace deposits. Mining policy and laws are weak to control illegal mining and to bring miners and dwellers into the framework of taxation. The river or terrace sands do not differ much in major constituents, but the former sands are more matured. Both sands are hazardous in terms of mica content that approaches 10 to 32% lying beyond the acceptable limit of 8%. Other deleterious materials are quite low in percentage and do not exceed 3%. If processing can be applied to reduce mica content at a commercial-scale, the sands in the Kathmandu Valley will be probably of good quality.   doi: 10.3126/bdg.v10i0.1424 Bulletin of the Department of Geology, Tribhuvan University, Kathmandu, Nepal, Vol. 10, 2007, pp.89-98
Detection of FLT3 Oncogene Mutations in Acute Myeloid Leukemia Using Conformation Sensitive Gel Electrophoresis
Authors: Gari Mamdooh , Abuzenadah Adel , Chaudhary Adeel , Al-Qahtani Mohammed , Banni Huda , Ahmad Waseem , Al-Sayes Fatin , Lary Sahira , Damanhouri Ghazi
Published: November 2008

FLT3 (fms-related tyrosine kinase 3) is a receptor tyrosine kinase class III that is expressed on by early hematopoietic progenitor cells and plays an important role in hematopoietic stem cell proliferation, differentiation and survival. FLT3 is also expressed on leukemia blasts in most cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). In order to determine the frequency of FLT3 oncogene mutations, we analyzed genomic DNA of adult de novo acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and conformation-sensitive gel electrophoresis (CSGE) were used for FLT3 exons 11, 14, and 15, followed by direct DNA sequencing. Two different types of functionally important FLT 3 mutations have been identified. Those mutations were unique to patients with inv(16), t(15:17) or t(8;21) and comprised fifteen cases with internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutation in the juxtamembrane domain and eleven cases with point mutation (exon 20, Asp835Tyr). The high frequency of the flt3 proto-oncogene mutations in acute myeloid leukemia AML suggests a key role for the receptor function. The association of FLT3 mutations with chromosomal abnormalities invites speculation as to the link between these two changes in the pathogenesis of acute myeloid leukemiaAML. Furthermore, CSGE method has shown to be a rapid and sensitive screening method for detection of nucleotide alteration in FLT3 gene. Finally, this study reports, for the first time in Saudi Arabia, mutations in the human FLT3 gene in acute myeloid leukemia AML patients.
Intestinal Structure and Function of Broiler Chickens on Diets Supplemented with a Synbiotic Containing Enterococcus faecium and Oligosaccharides
Authors: Awad Wageha , Ghareeb Khaled , Böhm Josef
Published: November 2008

A feeding trial was conducted on broiler chickens to study the effects of the synbiotic BIOMIN IMBO [a combination of Enterococcus faecium, a prebiotic (derived from chicory) and immune modulating substances (derived from sea algae)], with a dose of 1 kg/ton of the starter diets and 0.5 kg/ton of the grower diets on the intestinal morphometry and nutrient absorption. The general performance was improved (P < 0.05) by the dietary inclusion of synbiotic compared with the controls. Furthermore, the addition of synbiotic increased (P < 0.001) the villus height/crypt depth ratio and villus height in ileum. However, the ileal crypt depth was decreased by dietary supplementation of synbiotic compared with control. The addition of glucose in Ussing chamber produced a significant increase (P ≤ 0.001) in short-circuit current (Isc) in jejunum and colon relative to the basal values in both synbiotic and control groups. However, in jejunum the percentage of Isc increase after glucose addition was higher for synbiotic group (333 %) than control group (45 %). In conclusion, dietary inclusion of synbiotic BIOMIN IMBO increased the growth performance and improved intestinal morphology and nutrient absorption.
Systematic Review of Discriminating Power of Outcome Measures Used in Clinical Trials of Fibromyalgia
Authors: CARVILLE SERENA F. , CHOY ERNEST H.S.
Published: November 2008

Objective

Fibromyalgia (FM) comprises many symptoms and features. Consequently, studies on the condition have used a wide variety of outcome measures and assessment instruments. We investigated those outcome measures and instruments in association with the OMERACT (Outcome measures in Rheumatoid Arthritis Clinical Trials) FM Workshop initiative to define core outcome measures that should be used to assess FM.

Methods

A systematic literature review up to December 2007 was carried out using the keywords “fibromyalgia,” “treatment” or “management,” and “trial.” Data were extracted on outcome measures and assessment instruments used and the pre and post mean and standard deviation to calculate effect sizes (ES). Further sensitivity analysis was carried out according to treatment type, blinding status, and study outcome.

Results

The outcome domains identified fell largely within those defined by OMERACT. Morning stiffness was frequently assessed and therefore has been included here. The number of assessment instruments used was wide-ranging, so sensitivity analysis was only carried out on the top 5 within each domain. ES ranged from 0.54 to 3.77 for the key OMERACT domains. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) was the only exception that had no instrument with moderate sensitivity. Of the secondary domains, dyscognition was lacking any sensitive instrument, as were fatigue and anxiety in pharmacological trials.

Conclusion

Each of the key OMERACT domains has an instrument that appears to be sensitive to change, with the exception of HRQOL, which requires further research. Dyscognition, fatigue, and anxiety would all benefit from more research into their assessment instruments.
Alendronate Protects Premenopausal Women from Bone Loss and Fracture Associated with High-dose Glucocorticoid Therapy
Authors: OKADA YOSUKE , NAWATA MASAO , NAKAYAMADA SHINGO , SAITO KAZUYOSHI , TANAKA YOSHIYA
Published: November 2008

Objective

We assessed the efficacy of bisphosphonate in premenopausal women (n = 47) commencing high-dose glucocorticoid (GC) therapy in protection against induced bone loss and bone fracture.

Methods

Subjects had just developed systemic autoimmune diseases and were randomized to be treated with 1 mg/kg/day prednisolone and alfacalcidol 1 μg/day alone (alfacalcidol group; n = 22), or prednisolone and alfacalcidol 1 μg/day with alendronate 5 mg/day (alendronate group; n = 25), each for 18 months.

Results

The percentage changes in lumbar spine bone mineral density (BMD) after 6 months of the therapy were −10.5% ± 0.8% in the alfacalcidol group, but only −2.1% ± 1.2% in the combined group. The rate of bone loss in the lumbar spine was significantly lower in the combined group than in the alfacalcidol group at 6 months. At 12 months of treatment, the percentage change in lumbar spine BMD was increased by 1.7% ± 1.4% in the combined group, but decreased by 9.9% ± 1.9% in the alfacalcidol group; the difference was significant. Bone fracture occurred at 12 months or later in 4 patients of the alfacalcidol groups, but not in the combined group, even at up to 18 months.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that alendronate with alfacalcidol can maintain BMD and protects against high-dose GC-induced bone loss and bone fracture.
Tendinous and Ligamentous Derangements in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: SIERRA-JIMENEZ GABRIELA , SANCHEZ-ORTIZ ADRIANA , ACEVES-AVILA FRANCISCO JAVIER , HERNANDEZ-RIOS GUILLERMO , DURÁN-BARRAGÁN SERGIO , RAMOS-REMUS CESAR
Published: November 2008

Objective

We assessed the prevalence of selected clinical and radiological features of tendinous and ligamentous derangements in a consecutive sample of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

Consecutive patients with SLE with no comorbidities attending a tertiary care center were prospectively assessed and underwent plain radiographic evaluation of the pelvis. Radiographs were analyzed by 2 blinded observers; radiographic sacroiliitis was graded 0 to IV. To better assess sacroiliac (SI) involvement, a computed tomography (CT) scan of the SI joints was performed in patients with grade III sacroiliitis. Hip joints and pubis were also assessed as described.

Results

Of the 192 included patients, 89% were female, mean age was 36 years, and mean disease duration was 10 years. Inflammatory low back pain was reported by 10% of patients. Sacroiliitis of any grade was observed in 31 patients (16%), and grade III (confirmed on CT scan) sacroiliitis was observed in 6% (95% CI 3% to 9%). Osteitis pubis was diagnosed in 6% (95% CI 3% to 10%) and coxofemoral migration in 8% (95% CI 2% to 9%). Jaccoud’s arthropathy was found in 23%. Demographic and clinical variables were not statistically associated with radiographic sacroiliitis.

Conclusion

Sacroiliitis and other tendinous and ligamentous derangements are not uncommon in patients with SLE. Based on these features and on previous reports, the term “SLE-related tendinous and ligamentous derangements” may be used to establish a common framework for further research and reporting.
An Angiogenesis Inhibitor, 2-Methoxyestradiol, Involutes Rat Collagen-Induced Arthritis and Suppresses Gene Expression of Synovial Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor
Authors: BRAHN ERNEST , BANQUERIGO MONA L. , LEE JOHN K. , PARK EUN J. , FOGLER WILLIAM E. , PLUM STACY M.
Published: November 2008

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pannus may be dependent on angiogenesis and several critical growth factors including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). 2-Methoxyestradiol (2ME2), an endogenous metabolite with low estrogen receptor affinity, has both antiangiogenic and antiproliferative activity. 2ME2 was assessed in the rat collagen- induced arthritis (CIA) model to determine if it could prevent or involute established synovitis.

Methods

Rats were immunized on Day 0 with collagen and randomized to a vehicle control or two 2ME2 prevention arms. In additional studies, multiple parallel treatment arms were initiated at Day 10 after arthritis onset.

Results

2ME2 in preventive protocols at 30 or 100 mg/kg significantly delayed the onset and reduced the severity of clinical and radiographic CIA. In established CIA, oral 2ME2 at 50 mg/kg/bid, 100 mg/kg/day, and 300 mg/kg/day reduced severity compared to vehicle controls. Efficacy of 2ME2 delivery by osmotic pumps at 60 mg/kg/day was equivalent to 300 mg/kg/day by daily gavage. The 3 oral treatment protocols all significantly reduced radiographic scores in a dose-dependent fashion, with the greatest benefit at 300 mg/kg. 2ME2 showed marked suppression of synovial gene expression of proangiogenic bFGF and VEGF, with parallel reduction of synovial blood vessels. Serum antibody levels to native type II collagen were not reduced, suggesting that 2ME2 did not influence humoral immunity.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that 2ME2 may represent a novel agent for the treatment of inflammatory autoimmune diseases such as RA.