bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antidiabetic Activity of Different Extracts of Myrtus Communis in Streptozotocin Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Panjeshahin Mohammad Reza , Azadbakht Mohammad , Akbari Niattollah
Published: June 2016

Background and aim: Hydroalcoholic (70°) extract of leaves of Myrtus communis has been shown to have antidiabetic effect in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats in our previous study. In this study, we intended to determine the components of the mentioned extract and identify the mechanism for its action.

Materials and Methods: The leaves of Myrtus communis were extracted using petroleum ether by soxhlet. 100 g of the powder remaining in the strainer soxhlet apparatus were placed in two different percolators. The extraction was carried out by percolation method with ethanol-water (1-1) or distilled water in 72 hours. The remaining powder of water extract was further extracted using again ethanol (percolation method). The study was conducted on forty-eight matured male Charles-River rats (200-300 g) divided into 6 groups (n=8). Diabetes mellitus was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of 35 mg/kg of streptozotocin (STZ). Hydroalcoholic, water, and ethanol extracts of Myrtus communis were used at the dose of 4, 2, and respectively 2 g/kg body weight per day for 5 days. All extracts were given orally by gastric tube.

Results: We found that the total hydroalcoholic extract of Myrtus communis leaves showed a moderate antidiabetic effect. In this study, we showed that the ethanolic extract of leaves (2 g/kg) had a better hypoglycemic effect in diabetic rats compared with the aqueous extract (p < 0.05). Our results also showed that the oral administration of the ethanolic extract (2 g/kg) had an additive effect on the hypoglycemic action of glibenclamide (oral administration 5 mg/kg) in rats.

Conclusion: A review of previous researches on leaves of Myrtus communis and also the present study suggests that the extracts may stimulate the β-cells of pancreas to release insulin.
Effect of Soya based Protein Rich Diet on Glycaemic Parameters and Thyroid Function Tests in Women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sarathi Vijaya , Kolly Anish , Chaithanya Hulivana Boranna , Dwarakanath Chinthamani Suryanarayana
Published: June 2016

Background and Aims: Medical nutrition therapy plays a major role in the management of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). However, control of postprandial blood glucose values is often a challenge in Asian Indian GDM women due to high carbohydrate content in Indian diet.

Materials and Methods: Women presenting with GDM diagnosis were randomised to high fiber complex carbohydrate diet and soya based protein rich diet (25% of cereal part in the high fiber, complex carbohydrate diet replaced by soya food) groups.

Results: At the end of one week after initiation of dietary intervention, patients who received high fiber complex carbohydrate diet (n=30) had significantly higher postprandial blood glucose levels than those who received soya based protein rich diet (n=32). The need for insulin therapy at the end of one week after initiation of dietary intervention (15.62% vs. 40.0%) and at delivery (18.75% vs. 50%) were significantly lower in soya based protein rich diet group. Maternal thyroid function at diagnosis of GDM and delivery and neonatal TSH were not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion: Consumption of soya based protein rich diet reduced the need for insulin therapy in subjects with GDM. Short term consumption of soya food did not alter maternal and neonatal thyroid functions.
A Male with Extreme Subcutaneous Insulin Resistance: A Case Report
Authors: Ahmed Zuhayer , Prasad Indrajit , Rahman Hafizur , Ansari Jalil , Hassan Khaled
Published: June 2016

Introduction: Though insulin has no upper limit in dosage, we do not encounter very high dose requirements too often. The reported case is the first in Bangladesh to require more than 1000 international units (IU) of subcutaneous insulin per day.

Case presentation: A 44-year old male diabetic patient from Bangladesh presented with unusually uncontrolled diabetes mellitus due to extreme insulin resistance. Despite dramatic increase in insulin step by step up to 1110 IU of concomitant short and intermediate acting insulin per day by subcutaneous route, his blood glucose remained over 12 mmol/L persistently, in all the fasting, pre-prandial, postprandial and random samples. He was also treated with several oral hypoglycemic agents including metformin, vildagliptin, glimepiride, pioglitazone and miglitol along with insulin but blood glucose levels remained almost unchanged. However, intravenous infusion of insulin over 4 hours caused a plummet in the glucose level. His blood test for insulin autoantibody was negative.

Conclusion: This paper provides a scope to review literatures on extreme subcutaneous insulin resistance and its management. It also reveals the limitations of management due to lack of facilities in an underdeveloped country, which hinders proper exploration to many medical issues.
Factors Limiting Adoption of Technologies by Farmers in Catabola Municipality, Angola
Authors: Rušarová K. , Mazancová J. , Havrland B.
Published: June 2016

The objective of the paper is to define the factors influencing the adoption of animal traction and/or mechanical-power technology in the conditions of Catabola municipality where hand-tool technology is being used on 99.7% of the area cultivated by small farmers. Primary data collection was conducted in the period July–August 2011; semi-structured questionnaires and focus group discussions were the most frequent methods used. In total, 151 small-scale farmers from 9 villages participated in the survey. Ten factors influencing the dependent variable – level of technology used by farmers in combination with hiring of labour – were defined. The factors were statistically analyzed by ANOVA. The area of cultivated land and the educational level of both parents and children were found to be the factors limiting the process of animal traction or mechanical power adoption by small farmers in the Catabola municipality. In addition, a relatively high rate of child labour was observed. With the exclusion of childless families, 62.7% of small farmer families regularly use children aged 0–14 years for field operations. The results confirm that the factor of hiring extra labour is irrelevant in determining the development in technology use by small farmers in the Catabola municipality.
Economic Growth and Life Expectancy: The Case of Iran
Authors: Mahyar Hami
Published: June 2016

Regarding the link between economic growth and it’s public outcomes, this paper studies the effect of economic growth on life expectancy in Iran during 1966-2013. To achieve the research objectives, annually data collected from World Bank Database and I used the life expectancy at birth and annually GDP growth rate to measure the research variables. Then I applied Vector Error Correction Model to estimate the proposed model. The results on this study show that economic growth has a positively significant effect on life expectancy in Iran during the observation period.
Re-Visting the Electricity-Growth Nexus in South Africa
Authors: Phiri Andrew , Nyoni Bothwell
Published: June 2016

This research study contributes to the ever-expanding literature by examining multivariate cointegration and causality relationships between electricity consumption, economic growth and other growth determinants for quarterly South African data collected between 1994/Q1 – 2014/Q4. The motivation behind this current research case study becomes apparent when taking into consideration that no previous studies have gone further than bivariate and trivariate analysis in investigating the electricity-growth nexus in South Africa. In conducting our empirical investigation, our obtained empirical results are two-fold in nature. Firstly, we find significant multivariate long-run cointegration relationships between economic growth, electricity consumption and other growth determinants. Secondly, our empirical analysis offers support in favour of the neutrality hypothesis, that is, the notion of no causal effects existing between electricity consumption and economic growth in the long-run. However, we find that exports directly cause electricity consumption whereas economic growth, domestic investment and employment levels causally flow to exports.
Mesocortical Dopamine Phenotypes in Mice Lacking the Sonic Hedgehog Receptor Cdon
Authors: Verwey Michael , Grant Alanna , Meti Nicholas , Adye-White Lauren , Torres-Berrío Angelica , Rioux Veronique , Lévesque Martin , Charron Frederic , Flores Cecilia
Published: June 2016

Motivated behaviors and many psychopathologies typically involve changes in dopamine release from the projections of the ventral tegmental area (VTA) and/or the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). The morphogen Sonic Hedgehog (Shh) specifies fates of midbrain dopamine neurons, but VTA-specific effects of Shh signaling are also being uncovered. In this study, we assessed the role of the Shh receptor Cdon in the development of VTA and SNc dopamine neurons. We find that Cdon is expressed in the proliferating progenitor zone of the embryonic ventral midbrain and that the number of proliferating cells in this region is increased in mouseCdon−/−embryos. Consistent with a role of Shh in the regulation of neuronal proliferation in this region, we find that the number of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons is increased in the VTA ofCdon−/−mice at birth and that this effect endures into adulthood. In contrast, the number of TH-positive neurons in the SNc is not altered inCdon−/−mice at either age. Moreover, adultCdon−/−mice have a greater number of medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) dopamine presynaptic sites, and increased baseline concentrations of dopamine and dopamine metabolites selectively in this region. Finally, consistent with increased dopamine function in the mPFC, we find that adultCdon−/−mice fail to exhibit behavioral plasticity upon repeated amphetamine treatment. Based on these data, we suggest that Cdon plays an important role encoding the diversity of dopamine neurons in the midbrain, influencing both the development of the mesocortical dopamine pathway and behavioral outputs that involve this neural circuitry.
Imaging Informatics: 25 Years of Progress
Authors: Agrawal J. P. , Erickson B. J. , Kahn C. E.
Published: June 2016

The science and applications of informatics in medical imaging have advanced dramatically in the past 25 years. This article provides a selective overview of key developments in medical imaging informatics. Advances in standards and technologies for compression and transmission of digital images have enabled Picture Archiving and Communications Systems (PACS) and teleradiology. Research in speech recognition, structured reporting, ontologies, and natural language processing has improved the ability to generate and analyze the reports of imaging procedures. Informatics has provided tools to address workflow and ergonomic issues engendered by the growing volume of medical image information. Research in computer-aided detection and diagnosis of abnormalities in medical images has opened new avenues to improve patient care. The growing number of medical-imaging examinations and their large volumes of information create a natural platform for “big data“ analytics, particularly when joined with high-dimensional genomic data. Radiogenomics investigates relationships between a disease’s genetic and gene-expression characteristics and its imaging phenotype; this emerging field promises to help us better understand disease biology, prognosis, and treatment options. The next 25 years offer remarkable opportunities for informatics and medical imaging together to lead to further advances in both disciplines and to improve health.
Clinical Information Systems – From Yesterday to Tomorrow
Authors: Gardner R. M.
Published: June 2016

Objectives: To review the history of clinical information systems over the past twenty-five years and project anticipated changes to those systems over the next twenty-five years.

Methods: Over 250 Medline references about clinical information systems, quality of patient care, and patient safety were reviewed. Books, Web resources, and the author’s personal experience with developing the HELP system were also used. Results: There have been dramatic improvements in the use and acceptance of clinical computing systems and Electronic Health Records (EHRs), especially in the United States. Although there are still challenges with the implementation of such systems, the rate of progress has been remarkable. Over the next twenty-five years, there will remain many important opportunities and challenges. These opportunities include understanding complex clinical computing issues that must be studied, understood and optimized. Dramatic improvements in quality of care and patient safety must be anticipated as a result of the use of clinical information systems. These improvements will result from a closer involvement of clinical informaticians in the optimization of patient care processes.

Conclusions: Clinical information systems and computerized clinical decision support have made contributions to medicine in the past. Therefore, by using better medical knowledge, optimized clinical information systems, and computerized clinical decision, we will enable dramatic improvements in both the quality and safety of patient care in the next twenty-five years.
Adipocytes, aldosterone and obesity-related hypertension
Authors: Dinh Cat Aurelie Nguyen , Friederich-Persson Malou , White Anna , Touyz Rhian M
Published: June 2016

Understanding the mechanisms linking obesity with hypertension is important in the current obesity epidemic as it may improve therapeutic interventions. Plasma aldosterone levels are positively correlated with body mass index and weight loss in obese patients is reported to be accompanied by decreased aldosterone levels. This suggests a relationship between adipose tissue and the production/secretion of aldosterone. Aldosterone is synthesized principally by the adrenal glands, but its production may be regulated by many factors, including factors secreted by adipocytes. In addition, studies have reported local synthesis of aldosterone in extra-adrenal tissues, including adipose tissue. Experimental studies have highlighted a role for adipocyte-secreted aldosterone in the pathogenesis of obesity-related cardiovascular complications via the mineralocorticoid receptor. This review focuses on how aldosterone secretion may be influenced by adipose tissue and the importance of these mechanisms in the context of obesity-related hypertension.
Corticotropin-releasing hormone family evolution: five ancestral genes remain in some lineages
Authors: Cardoso João C R , Bergqvist Christina A , Félix Rute C , Larhammar Dan
Published: June 2016

The evolution of the peptide family consisting of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and the three urocortins (UCN1-3) has been puzzling due to uneven evolutionary rates. Distinct gene duplication scenarios have been proposed in relation to the two basal rounds of vertebrate genome doubling (2R) and the teleost fish-specific genome doubling (3R). By analyses of sequences and chromosomal regions, including many neighboring gene families, we show here that the vertebrate progenitor had two peptide genes that served as the founders of separate subfamilies. Then, 2R resulted in a total of five members: one subfamily consists of CRH1, CRH2, and UCN1. The other subfamily contains UCN2 and UCN3. All five peptide genes are present in the slowly evolving genomes of the coelacanth Latimeria chalumnae (a lobe-finned fish), the spotted gar Lepisosteus oculatus (a basal ray-finned fish), and the elephant shark Callorhinchus milii (a cartilaginous fish). The CRH2 gene has been lost independently in placental mammals and in teleost fish, but is present in birds (except chicken), anole lizard, and the nonplacental mammals platypus and opossum. Teleost 3R resulted in an additional surviving duplicate only for crh1 in some teleosts including zebrafish (crh1a and crh1b). We have previously reported that the two vertebrate CRH/UCN receptors arose in 2R and that CRHR1 was duplicated in 3R. Thus, we can now conclude that this peptide–receptor system was quite complex in the ancestor of the jawed vertebrates with five CRH/UCN peptides and two receptors, and that crh and crhr1 were duplicated in the teleost fish tetraploidization.
Relación entre nivel académico y metas de socialización en madres de niños preescolares
Authors: Jaramillo Pérez Jorge Mario , Pérez Álvarez Laura , Ruiz Cubillos María Isabel
Published: June 2016

En esta investigación se analizó cómo el nivel académico de madres de niños en edad preescolar se relaciona con sus metas de socialización. Utilizando una metodología mixta se aplicaron entrevistas semiestructuradas a 172 madres de niños entre 3 y 4 años y medio de edad que viven en Bogotá y varios municipios de la zona cundiboyacense. Las entrevistas fueron sometidas a análisis de contenido de tipo categorial para calcular la frecuencia con que se mencionaron distintas metas de socialización y examinar si hubo una relación significativa entre el nivel de formación académica de las madres y su preferencia por metas de socialización asociadas a la independencia o la interdependencia. Los resultados indican que a mayor nivel académico, mayor es el énfasis en metas de socialización asociadas a la independencia.
Caracterización de la conducta adaptativa en escolares con y sin discapacidad intelectual de la región de la Araucanía
Authors: Krause Arriagada Arlett , Román Mella Francisca , Esparza Parra Yennifer , Novoa Mercado Marjorie , Salinas Pulleghini Pamela , Toledo Padilla Fernanda , Vallejos Medina Arlyn
Published: June 2016

Esta investigación se enfoca en la caracterización de la conducta adaptativa en escolares con y sin discapacidad intelectual de la Región de La Araucanía, Chile. Se utilizó el Inventario para la Planificación de Servicios y Programación Individual (ICAP), aplicado a padres y/o tutores legales de 22 niños con discapacidad intelectual y 33 niños sin discapacidad. Las edades fluctuaron entre los 6 y 12 años, con un diseño no probabilístico en conglomerados. El método utilizado es descriptivo-comparativo. Los resultados señalan que existen diferencias de las conductas adaptativas, donde los escolares sin discapacidad presentan un mayor nivel de desarrollo, además ambos grupos poseen un perfil heterogéneo en las destrezas que componen el funcionamiento adaptativo, donde las destrezas motoras son las más altas, mientras que las destrezas de la vida en comunidad son las más bajas. Se concluye que las diferencias encontradas se ven afectadas por la presencia de discapacidad intelectual y por el contexto educativo. Esta investigación se enmarca en el proyecto de investigación DI12-0077 denominado Propiedades psicométricas de la versión española del Inventario para la planificación de servicios y la programación individual (ICAP), en escolares de la ciudad de Temuco.
Efectos de una simetría facial alta, media y baja en un condicionamiento clásico de actitudes hacia logos
Authors: Zambrano R. Danilo , Agudelo T. Julián David , Grey Javela Lady , Cruz Julio Eduardo
Published: June 2016

Con 34 estudiantes de la Universidad de Ibagué (17 de cada sexo y una media de 21 años), se evaluó el efecto de la simetría facial (SF) en un Condicionamiento Clásico de Actitudes, mediante un procedimiento simultáneo donde los estímulos incondicionados fueron rostros femeninos con baja, media y alta SF, y como estímulos a condicionar tres logos (Xua, Xue y Xuo). Los resultados muestran una mejor evaluación de los rostros con alta SF; un cambio entre las evaluaciones realizadas antes y después a los logos y, finalmente, que la marca asociada a alta SF obtuvo una evaluación más positiva. Se valora el impacto del estudio en la operacionalización del atractivo físico, la identificación de estímulos incondicionados y las ventajas del procedimiento en la evaluación de comunicaciones persuasivas.
El involucramiento como expresión de la orientación hacia la promoción o prevención
Authors: Arboleda Arango Ana , López Sánchez Silvio Fernando
Published: June 2016

Este estudio asocia las estrategias cognitivas de promoción y prevención con el involucramiento del consumidor. Es un estudio de campo que aplica el cuestionario del enfoque regulatorio (RFQ) a 92 asistentes a una consulta odontológica; de manera paralela se observan conductas de involucramiento durante la consulta. Los resultados muestran que una mayor inclinación hacia la prevención se asocia con un mayor grado de involucramiento. Por el contrario, una mayor inclinación hacia la promoción se asocia de manera negativa con el involucramiento del consumidor. Recomendamos utilizar conductas asociadas al involucramiento entendiendo su relación con la orientación hacia la prevención/promoción como una estrategia para la segmentación de los usuarios de servicios de salud.
De víctima a victimaria: la mujer en la crianza de los hijos
Authors: Bautista C. Nelly Patricia
Published: June 2016

Este artículo busca problematizar concepciones corrientes sobre las mujeres víctimas de violencia, pobreza y exclusión, quienes en el rol materno replican en sus hijos las conductas aprendidas en los diferentes sistemas que las afectaron, desde el macro hasta el microsistema, los cuales se perciben cargados de violencia y exclusión. El estudio se fundamentó en la teoría ecológica de Bronfenbrenner, teniendo una visión sistémica del problema y se analizó desde autores como Martín-Baró, Foucault y Wernicke, entre otros. Luego de reconocer las características sociodemográficas y las relaciones interpersonales, se estableció la correlación entre ser víctima de violencia y el moldeamiento de las características psicológicas que se observan en las mujeres transmutándose de víctimas a victimarias en perjuicio de sus hijos, reproduciéndose la violencia en una espiral que es vista como natural en distintos entornos sociales. Se encontró una diferencia entre la mujer del ámbito urbano y la desplazada proveniente del ámbito rural, en cuanto al uso de los servicios que proveen las instituciones y la relación con las demás personas, siendo estas últimas más desconfiadas y prevenidas.
Personalidad e infracciones frecuentes de normas de tránsito
Authors: Durán Palacio Nicolasa María , Moreno Carmona Norman Darío
Published: June 2016

La Organización Mundial de la Salud (2013), alerta a los gobiernos a tomar medidas urgentes para prevenir accidentes de tránsito. Si no se intervienen, en el 2030 serán la quinta causa de muerte. Este estudio establece el perfil psicológico de conductores de vehículo infractores frecuentes de normas de tránsito, en una muestra de 295 adultos de ambos sexos. Utilizando el cuestionario factorial de personalidad 16PF-5 y una escala de creencias, conocimientos, y comportamientos sobre seguridad vial, se identificaron relaciones significativas entre conducta infractora y creencias, además de los factores de personalidad y variables específicas que predicen la propensión a las infracciones frecuentes de normas de tránsito.
Problemas bioéticos emergentes de la inteligencia artificial
Authors: Villalba Gómez Jairo Andrés
Published: June 2016

El presente artículo de revisión, relaciona de forma analítica los conceptos entre bioética e inteligencia artificial, identificando los elementos técnicofilosóficos tales como: transhumanismo, inteligencia artificial y bioética de la tecnología; cuyo orden transdisciplinar, evoluciona en cuestionamientos científicos basados en la evolución de la tecnociencia del siglo XXI. Se identificarán los referentes conceptuales de la relación entre transhumanismo (H+) e inteligencia artificial (IA), su génesis, enfoques, fundamentos disciplinares, así como los elementos básicos que hacen posible la arquitectura en un sistema de inteligencia artificial, precisando así el ambiente prospectivo en el que se consolida una “era” basada en la “singularidad tecnológica”, para finalmente concluir en una descripción de algunos problemas ético-filosóficos que emergen en la evolución de la inteligencia artificial.
A Genomic Resource for the Development, Improvement, and Exploitation of Sorghum for Bioenergy
Authors: Brenton Zachary W , Cooper Elizabeth A , Myers Mathew T , Boyles Richard E , Shakoor Nadia , Zielinski Kelsey J , Rauh Bradley L , Bridges William C , Morris Geoffrey P , Kresovich Stephen
Published: June 2016

With high productivity and stress tolerance, numerous grass genera of the Andropogoneae have emerged as candidates for bioenergy production. To optimize these candidates, research examining the genetic architecture of yield, carbon partitioning, and composition is required to advance breeding objectives. Significant progress has been made developing genetic and genomic resources for Andropogoneae, and advances in comparative and computational genomics have enabled research examining the genetic basis of photosynthesis, carbon partitioning, composition, and sink strength. To provide a pivotal resource aimed at developing a comparative understanding of key bioenergy traits in the Andropogoneae, we have established and characterized an association panel of 390 racially, geographically, and phenotypically diverse Sorghum bicolor accessions with 232,303 genetic markers. Sorghum bicolor was selected because of its genomic simplicity, phenotypic diversity, significant genomic tools, and its agricultural productivity and resilience. We have demonstrated the value of sorghum as a functional model for candidate gene discovery for bioenergy Andropogoneae by performing genome-wide association analysis for two contrasting phenotypes representing key components of structural and non-structural carbohydrates. We identified potential genes, including a cellulase enzyme and a vacuolar transporter, associated with increased non-structural carbohydrates that could lead to bioenergy sorghum improvement. Although our analysis identified genes with potentially clear functions, other candidates did not have assigned functions, suggesting novel molecular mechanisms for carbon partitioning traits. These results, combined with our characterization of phenotypic and genetic diversity and the public accessibility of each accession and genomic data, demonstrate the value of this resource and provide a foundation for future improvement of sorghum and related grasses for bioenergy production.
Mirror therapy for upper limb rehabilitation in chronic patients after stroke
Authors: Mota Dreyzialle Vila Nova , Meireles André Luís Ferreira de , Viana Marcelo Tavares , Almeida Rita de Cássia de Albuquerque
Published: July 2016

Abstract Introduction: Individuals with stroke sequelae present changes in the postural alignment and muscle strength associated with hemiplegia or hemiparesis. Mirror therapy is a technique that aims to improve the motor function of the paretic limb. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of mirror therapy, associated with conventional physiotherapy, for range of motion (ROM), degree of spasticity of the affected upper limb, and the level of independence in the activities of daily living (ADL) of chronic patients after stroke. Methods: This was a quasi-experimental (before and after) study. The study included ten stroke survivors undertaking physiotherapy and presenting with upper limb paresis. The following gauges were used for the present study: goniometry, the Modified Ashworth Scale, Fugl-Meyer and Barthel Index. Fifteen sessions were performed, each lasting 30 minutes, consisting of stretching of the flexor and extensor muscles of the wrist and elbow, pronators and supinators, followed by mirror therapy with gradual functional exercises. Results: Improvement was observed in all aspects studied, however with significant differences for ROM wrist extension (p = 0.04) and forearm supination (p = 0.03) Conclusion: It can be concluded that mirror therapy contributed to the participants' good performance in the aspects studied, mainly in relation to ROM of the affected upper limb.
Critical analysis of the drafting of physical therapy randomized controlled trials published in Portuguese
Authors: Rubini Ercole da Cruz , Pereira Fabio Dutra , Monteiro-Junior Renato Sobral , Zaidan Patricia , Souza Cintia Pereira de , Silva Elirez Bezerra da
Published: July 2016

Abstract Introduction: randomized controlled trials are high quality studies. Many problems related to the drafting of these studies have been identified and consequently various national and international journals, in an attempt to improve this writing, have adopted the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials recommendations. Regarding the studies written specifically by physical therapists, until now, the quality of the drafting in Portuguese has been unknown. Aim: To critically analyze the drafting of RCTs in the area of physical therapy, published in Portuguese, in relation to the CONSORT recommendations. Materials and Methods: On 17th Oct, 2012, 548 RCTs in Portuguese were recovered from the MEDLINE and PEDro databases, which were divided among four evaluators who, after reading the abstracts, selected those related to physical therapy. Of these studies, 78 RCTs were related to physical therapy, which were divided among the four evaluators for the analysis of the drafting according to the CONSORT recommendations. The four evaluators who participated in this study previously obtained a median kappa above 70% when their analyses were compared to the analyses of the evaluator considered the gold standard due to having greater experience. Results: The quantity of items of the CONSORT recommendations according to year of publication was very small, corresponding to a mean of 43% of the items in the articles analyzed. Conclusion: The results make very clear the need to improve the quality of the drafting of the RCTs related to physical therapy in Portuguese and to include more rigorous methodological procedures, such as sample size, randomization and blinding. The dissemination and adoption of the CONSORT recommendations by physical therapy researchers would, without doubt, be a big step towards improving this quality.
Lettuce and marigold intercropping: crops productivity and marigold's flavonoid content
Authors: Fonseca Maira Christina Marques , Sediyama Maria Aparecida Nogueira , Bonfim Filipe Pereira Giardini , Dores Rosana Gonçalves Rodrigues das , Gonçalves Melina Guimarães , Prado Adalgisa Leles do , Lopes Iza Paula de Carvalho
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT: Intercropping of vegetables and medicinal plants might produce favorable interactions for both crops, resulting in increased production and profit per unit area. It is known that active compounds can change because of several factors, including the cropping system. Therefore, the goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of intercropping of lettuce and marigold on the productivity of these crops and on the flavonoid content of marigold flowers. The experiment was conducted in the experimental area of EPAMIG in Oratorios-MG. Treatments consisted of lettuce + marigolds intercropping between rows, lettuce + marigold intercropping between plants, and monocultures of each species. Spacing was 0.3x0.3m. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks with ten repetitions. Harvest of lettuce and marigold flowers started 45 days after transplantation (DAT) and extended up to 72 DAT for marigolds. Lettuce and marigold intercropping appears feasible because lettuce production did not differ between the monoculture and intercropped cultivations, and marigold productivity was higher when intercropped with lettuce. No change in the flavonoid (active chemicals of medicinal interest) content in the floral capitula of marigolds was observed.
Escrituras ilegíveis e comunidade literária
Authors: Olmos Ana Cecilia
Published: July 2016

Resumo As escrituras de Héctor Libertella e Diamela Eltit operam como máquinas de corrosão da linguagem, desestabilizando os sentidos cristalizados do literário que remetem aos mandatos de representação do nacional ou continental. Trata-se de escrituras que, ao apelar ao traço singular e único dos idioletos, questionam todo regime de representação e renunciam à nitidez tranquilizadora do comunicável no seio da comunidade. Porém, esses autores também exploram o ensaio como forma discursiva que oferece uma condição de diálogo que permite restabelecer esses vínculos com o comum, sem deixar de problematizá-los. Por meio do ensaio, esses escritores buscam intervir criticamente no debate acerca da representação do latino-americano como variável determinante da literatura. Esse trabalho propõe indagar qual é a relação que se estabelece entre a singularidade expressiva dessas escrituras e o comum que o ensaio convoca.
Social networking in nursing education: integrative literature review
Authors: Kakushi Luciana Emi , Évora Yolanda Dora Martinez
Published: July 2016

Abstract Objective: to identify the use of social networking in nursing education. Method: integrative literature review in the databases: LILACS, IBECS, Cochrane, BDENF, SciELO, CINAHL, Scopus, PubMed, CAPES Periodicals Portal and Web of Science, using the descriptors: social networking and nursing education and the keywords: social networking sites and nursing education, carried out in April 2015. Results: of the 489 articles found, only 14 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Most studies were published after 2013 (57%), originating from the United States and United Kingdom (77.8%). It was observed the use of social networking among nursing students, postgraduate students, mentors and nurses, in undergraduate programmes, hybrid education (blended-learning) and in interprofessional education. The social networking sites used in the teaching and learning process were Facebook (42.8%), Ning (28.5%), Twitter (21.4%) and MySpace (7.1%), by means of audios, videos, quizzes, animations, forums, guidance, support, discussions and research group. Conclusion: few experiences of the use of social networking in nursing education were found and their contributions show the numerous benefits and difficulties faced, providing resourses for the improvement and revaluation of their use in the teaching and learning process.
Predictive factors for the Nursing Diagnoses in people living with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome
Authors: Silva Richardson Augusto Rosendo da , Costa Romanniny Hévillyn Silva , Nelson Ana Raquel Cortês , Duarte Fernando Hiago da Silva , Prado Nanete Caroline da Costa , Rodrigues Eduardo Henrique Fagundes
Published: July 2016

Abstract Objective: to identify the predictive factors for the nursing diagnoses in people living with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. Method: a cross-sectional study, undertaken with 113 people living with AIDS. The data were collected using an interview script and physical examination. Logistic regression was used for the data analysis, considering a level of significance of 10%. Results: the predictive factors identified were: for the nursing diagnosis of knowledge deficit-inadequate following of instructions and verbalization of the problem; for the nursing diagnosis of failure to adhere - years of study, behavior indicative of failure to adhere, participation in the treatment and forgetfulness; for the nursing diagnosis of sexual dysfunction - family income, reduced frequency of sexual practice, perceived deficit in sexual desire, perceived limitations imposed by the disease and altered body function. Conclusion: the predictive factors for these nursing diagnoses involved sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, defining characteristics, and related factors, which must be taken into consideration during the assistance provided by the nurse.
Intra-specific pelage color variation in a South American small rodent species
Authors: Sandoval Salinas M. L. , Barquez R. M. , Colombo E. M. , Sandoval J. D.
Published: July 2016

Abstract Intra-specific color variation is often underestimated by researchers, and among mammals, intra-specific differences in coloration are poorly documented for most species. The main goal of this study was to apply an objective color measurement methodology to the study of a specific problem: the detection, if any, of patterns of changes in the fur color of specimens of Akodon budini in relation to biological (i.e., sex) and environmental (i.e., season) variables. We hypothesize that coat color will be more homogeneous in males than in females and that coat color will be darker in winter than in summer, the latter being orange. We measured the pelage color on five points over the dorsal surface of 26 A. budini museum specimens using a spectroradiometer and a diffuse illumination cabin. We used Principal Component Analysis to describe the association between the color variables, sex and season, and each of the observations. We then used general linear models of Analysis of Variance to examine relationships between color data, season, and sex. The results clearly confirm the hypothesis related to seasonal coat color change but do not directly confirm the hypothesis related to changes in coat color in relation to sex, and we show the complexity of the studied pattern. In conclusion, undoubtedly, the studied variables should accordingly be considered when studying the coloration of specimens for characterization, identification and discrimination of different taxonomic units based on color.
Biological properties of disturbed and undisturbed Cerrado sensu stricto from Northeast Brazil
Authors: Araújo A. S. F. , Magalhaes L. B. , Santos V. M. , Nunes L. A. P. L. , Dias C. T. S.
Published: July 2016

Abstract The aim of this study was to measure soil microbial biomass and soil surface fauna in undisturbed and disturbed Cerrado sensu stricto (Css) from Sete Cidades National Park, Northeast Brazil. The following sites were sampled under Cerrado sensu stricto (Css) at the park: undisturbed and disturbed Css (slash-and-burn agricultural practices). Total organic and microbial biomass C were higher in undisturbed than in disturbed sites in both seasons. However, microbial biomass C was higher in the wet than in the dry season. Soil respiration did not vary among sites but was higher in the wet than in the dry season. The densities of Araneae, Coleoptera, and Orthoptera were higher in the undisturbed site, whereas the densities of Formicidae were higher in the disturbed site. Non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis separated undisturbed from disturbed sites according to soil biological properties. Disturbance by agricultural practices, such as slash-and-burn, probably resulted in the deterioration of the biological properties of soil under native Cerrado sensu stricto in the Sete Cidades National Park.
Caracterização estrutural e status de conservação do estrato herbáceo de dunas da Praia de São Marcos, Maranhão, Brasil
Authors: ARAUJO Ana Cássia Medeiros , SILVA Ariade Nazaré Fontes da , ALMEIDA JR Eduardo Bezerra de
Published: July 2016

RESUMO As dunas costeiras têm sido apontadas como um dos ambientes mais deteriorados do litoral brasileiro ameaçando assim a vegetação de restinga. O objetivo desse estudo foi descrever a fitossociologia do estrato herbáceo da vegetação de dunas e avaliar o status de conservação da área no litoral maranhense. O estudo foi realizado na Praia de São Marcos, localizada na porção norte da Ilha do Maranhão. Para a amostragem fitossociológica foi utilizado o método de parcelas (50 parcelas de 1 m2), sendo analisados os parâmetros fitossociológicos tradicionais em vegetação. Também foram determinadas as formas de vida, distribuição fitogeográfica e status de conservação da comunidade vegetal. Nos 50 m² foram amostradas 35 espécies das quais Paspalum maritimum, Paspalum ligulare, Cassytha filiformis, Chamaecrista hispidula e Euploca polyphylla obtiveram os maiores VI's. O índice de diversidade de Shannon, quando calculado com valores de cobertura, resultou em H' =1,69 nats m-² e quando calculado com valores de frequência, foi de H' =3,04 nats m-². A área exibiu predominância de caméfitos e terófitos, indicando que essas formas de vida são uma estratégia adaptativa das espécies que ocorrem nesse tipo de vegetação para resistir as condições climáticas adversas. O ecossistema amostrado apresentou espécies de ampla distribuição nos biomas brasileiros, sendo ausentes endemismos. Foram identificados 14 fatores de impactos, dos quais cinco atingem com mais gravidade a vegetação de restinga. Portanto, são necessários mais estudos com foco na conservação dos ecossistemas de dunas, a fim de evitar danos que comprometam a diversidade vegetal dessas áreas.
Species richness in restinga vegetation on the eastern Maranhão State, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: SERRA Flávia Cristina Vieira , LIMA Patrícia Barbosa , ALMEIDA JR Eduardo Bezerra de
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT The State of Maranhão comprises the second largest coastline in Brazil. Nonetheless, few floristic surveys on restinga vegetation have been performed in Northeastern Brazil. This study aimed to survey floristic in a restinga of Maranhão, and to assess its similarity to other restingas in the states of Pará and Piauí. Botanical specimens were sampled at Sítio Aguahy, in the municipality of São José de Ribamar, along the eastern coast of Maranhão between June/2012 and October/2013. Species identification and life forms classification followed the usual methods employed in floristic studies. Similarities in plant composition of six sites were estimated based on cluster analysis through Bray-Curtis distance. In the studied area, we found 116 phanerogamic species, 100 genera and 52 families; 19 species were new occurrences for the restinga of Maranhão. Families with largest number of species were Fabaceae, Cyperaceae, Rubiaceae, Poaceae, Myrtaceae, Asteraceae, Malvaceae, Combretaceae, and Eriocaulaceae, which comprised 49.2% of all sampled species. We identified 41 nanophanerophytes, 34 terophytes, 15 camephytes, ten microphanerophytes, six hemicryptophytes, and five lianas. Similarity analyses indicated greater affinity between the restinga flora from the states of Maranhão and Pará than that observed for the states of Maranhão and Piauí, suggesting that the process of species colonization in the former is more likely derived from the Amazon Forest. It is expected that these results may encourage future researchers to conduct further surveys in restinga areas of the Maranhão aiming to better understand the influence of neighboring vegetation on the colonization of the coastal areas of Maranhão.
In vitro antioxidant, antitumor and leishmanicidal activity of riparin A, an analog of the Amazon alkamides from Aniba riparia (Lauraceae)
Authors: ARAÚJO Éverton José Ferreira de , LIMA Layana Karine Farias , SILVA Oskar Almeida , JÚNIOR Luís Mário REZENDE , GUTIERREZ Stanley Juan Chavez , CARVALHO Fernando Aécio de Amorim , LIMA Francisco das Chagas Alves , PESSOA Cláudia , FREITAS Rivelilson Mendes de , FERREIRA Paulo Michel Pinheiro
Published: July 2016

ABSTRACT Aniba riparia (Lauraceae) is an important medicinal plant found in the Amazon region and presents alkaloids of the type alkamide known as riparins. Riparin A is structurally represented as the fundamental core of all Amazon riparins. This work aimed to assess the in vitro antioxidant, antitumor and antileishmanial effects of riparin A. Riparin A presented weak antioxidant capacity by tecniques of DPPH• (EC50 of 296.2 μg mL-1) and ABTS•+ (EC50 of 450.1 μg mL-1), showed moderate activity against colon carcinoma (HCT-116: IC50 of 21.7 μg mL-1) and leishmanicidal activity on promastigotes of L. amazonensis (IC50 of 307.0 ± 79.6, 193.7 ± 44.3 and 81.8 ± 11.2 μg mL-1, respectively, after 24, 48 and 72 h of incubation). Then, in addition to its structural simplicity, riparin A revealed promising biological activities and remarkable in vitro leishmanicidal action, an important result in epidemiological point of view to control leishmaniasis in Brazil, including in the Amazon region.
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES ASSOCIATED WITH THE RECLAMATION OF AREAS DEGRADED BY MINING: POTENTIAL FOR PAYMENTS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Authors: SOUZA CAROLINE ALMEIDA , GALLARDO AMARILIS LUCIA CASTELI FIGUEIREDO , SILVA ÉRICA DONAIRE DA , MELLO YOHANA CUNHA DE , RIGHI CIRO ABBUD , SOLERA MARIA LUCIA
Published: July 2016

Abstract This paper discusses the potential of associating environmental services (ES) with techniques for reclaiming degraded areas (RDA) used in the mining sector, considering the current trends in payments for environmental services (PES) in Brazil. A literature review with content analysis generated results which identified the ES generated for eight cases of RDA in mining. As an example, ES related to soil enhancement were found. A more extended review of general RDA techniques confirmed the potential for associating other ES to RDA techniques used in mining, an example here is the enhancement of carbon stocks. Support for actions could come from existing PES schemes, particularly for cases where the ES identified as associated with an RDA technique are related to soil and water conservation. Concluding remarks indicate that there is a potential scenario for ES diversification in the reclamation stage of mining operations. A first step towards accomplishing this diversification envisages the creation of a PES scheme specific to the mining sector. Further studies are needed to develop criteria for fostering a PES scheme specifically for the reclamation phase of mining operations in Brazil.
SOCIAL REPRESENTATION OF SUSTAINABILITY IN CIVIL CONSTRUCTION AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS
Authors: TECHIO ELZA MARIA , GONÇALVES JARDEL PEREIRA , COSTA POLIANA NERES
Published: July 2016

Abstract Environment issues and their relationship with man have encouraged discussions and actions to prevent negative effects on the environment. To have effective programs that encourage more sustainable actions in Construction, it is necessary to know what people think and know about sustainability, the meanings and socially shared ideas. This research was developed within an interdisciplinary approach involving social psychology and civil engineering and aims to identify the social representations of college students of engineering and humanities on sustainability. It is a descriptive study that used an electronic questionnaire and EVOC for data analysis. The results point to a social representation of sustainability associated with the environmental dimension: environment, environmental, and nature. The other two dimensions of the triple bottom line, economic and social, appear superficially as peripheral representations.
ASSOCIATIONS IN PROTECTED AREAS: RESTRICTIONS AND POSSIBILITIES IN THE EXPERIENCE OF TOURIST GUIDES IN CATIMBAU, PERNAMBUCO
Authors: SILVA JOSILENE HENRIQUES DA , PIRES MARIA LUIZA LINS E SILVA
Published: July 2016

Abstract The aim of the current study is to analyze the organizational dynamics established by the Association of Tourist Guides and for the Development of Catimbau National Park (AGTURC - Associação de Guias do Turismo e do Desenvolvimento do Parque Nacional do Catimbau) as a way to structure the tourist activity in the park, which is located in Pernambuco State. This perspective is set in discussions about the changes the countryside has faced due to new territorial dynamics that have resulted from the idea of environmental conservation and enhancement of the country area, and the consequent implementation of protected natural areas. The abandonment by the public power, the poor logistics infrastructure of the association, in addition to the bad management of scarce resources in the herein presented case, among other reasons, have favored internal disputes over visitors among the AGTURC members, thus motivating, for instance, the noncompliance with the agreements defined by the group. These aspects reveal the tourism-related difficulties and tensions experienced in Brazilian Conservation Units.