bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical evaluation of the failure rate of metallic brackets bonded with orthodontic composites
Authors: Romano Fábio Lourenço , Valério Rodrigo Alexandre , Gomes-Silva Jaciara Miranda , Ferreira José Tarcísio Lima , Faria Gisele , Borsatto Maria Cristina
Published: December 2012

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate in vivo the failure rate of metallic brackets bonded with two orthodontic composites. Nineteen patients with ages ranging from 10.5 to 38.7 years needing corrective orthodontic treatment were selected for study. The enamel surfaces from second premolars to second premolars were treated with Transbond Plus-Self Etching Primer (3M Unitek). Next, 380 orthodontic brackets were bonded on maxillary and mandibular teeth, as follows: 190 with Transbond XT composite (3M Unitek) (control) and 190 with Transbond Plus Color Change (3M Unitek) (experimental) in contralateral quadrants. The bonded brackets were light cured for 40 s, and initial alignment archwires were inserted. Bond failure rates were recorded over a six-month period. At the end of the evaluation, six bond failures occurred, three for each composite. Kaplan-Meyer method and log-rank test (Mantel-Cox) was used for statistical analysis, and no statistically significant difference was found between the materials (p=0.999). Both Transbond XT and Transbond Plus Color Change composites had low debonding rates over the study period.
Chlorhexidine does not increase immediate bond strength of etch-and-rinse adhesive to caries-affected dentin of primary and permanent teeth
Authors: Lenzi Tathiane Larissa , Tedesco Tamara Kerber , Soares Fabio Zovico Maxnuck , Loguercio Alessandro Dourado , Rocha Rachel de Oliveira
Published: December 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 2% chlorhexidine digluconate (CHX) on immediate bond strength of etch-and-rinse adhesive to sound (SD) and caries-affected (CAD) primary dentin compared with permanent dentin. Flat dentin surfaces from 20 primary molars (Pri) and 20 permanent molars (Perm) were assigned to 8 experimental groups (n=5) according to tooth type (Pri or Perm), dentin condition (SD or CAD - pH-cycling for 14 days) and treatment (control - C or 60 s application of 2% CHX solution after acid etching - CHX). The bonding system (Adper Single Bond 2) was applied according to manufacturer's instructions followed by resin composite application (Filtek Z250). After 24 h water storage, specimens with cross-section area of 0.8 mm² were prepared for being tested under microtensile test (1 mm/min). Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test (α=0.05). Failure mode was evaluated using a stereomicroscope at ×400. Treatment with CHX did not result in higher bond strength values than no pre-treatment (C groups), independently of tooth type. Primary teeth and caries-affected dentin showed significantly lower (p<0.05) bond strength means compared with permanent teeth and sound dentin, respectively. Predominance of adhesive/mixed failure was observed for all groups. CHX did not influence the immediate bond strength to sound or caries-affected dentin of primary and permanent teeth.
Uma construção social: o anexo da norma brasileira de ergonomia para o trabalho dos operadores de telemarketing
Authors: Peres Claudio Cezar , Marinho-Silva Airton , Cavalcante-Fernandes Elizabete , Rocha Lys Esther
Published: December 2012

O número de operadores das centrais de atendimento telefônico está em franca expansão no Brasil e no mundo, envolvendo cerca de 550 mil trabalhadores em nosso país. Este artigo aborda a ação coletiva em busca de melhores condições de trabalho para esses operadores, desencadeada por solicitações de intervenção ao Ministério do Trabalho e Emprego (MTE) feitas por trabalhadores portadores de Distúrbios Osteomusculares Relacionados ao Trabalho (DORT), diretamente, e por meio de seus sindicatos no Brasil. Além de ações de fiscalização sobre as empresas de telemarketing no sentido da regulação das condições de trabalho nesse setor, a Comissão Nacional de Ergonomia (CNE) do MTE, entre 2000 e 2005, organizou eventos reunindo profissionais de instituições de pesquisa, representações patronais e de trabalhadores, fazendo estudos aprofundados sobre esse tipo de trabalho. Capacitou, ao mesmo tempo, auditores fiscais do trabalho para fiscalização em ergonomia aplicada em todo o país. Essas ações resultaram na constituição de um grupo de trabalho interinstitucional em 2004 e na publicação da Recomendação Técnica 1 pelo Departamento de Segurança e Saúde no Trabalho em 2005. Enfrentando resistência empresarial e diversas inconsistências do próprio movimento sindical, visando à promulgação de uma Norma Regulamentadora para o telemarketing, o MTE constituiu um grupo técnico para a elaboração da proposta de Anexo à Norma Regulamentadora 17 ("Ergonomia"). Este artigo relata o processo de construção social dessa normatização, suas propostas e desafios.
Trabalhar em centrais de atendimento: a busca de sentido em tarefas esvaziadas
Authors: Sznelwar Laerte Idal , Abrahão Júlia Issy , Mascia Fausto Leopoldo
Published: December 2012

Este artigo apresenta uma discussão relativa a aspectos significativos do trabalho em centrais de atendimento estudadas sob o ponto de vista da ergonomia e da psicodinâmica do trabalho. A discussão se apóia nos estudos realizados em empresas situadas nas cidades de São Paulo e Brasília entre meados dos anos 1990 e início dos anos 2000. As centrais de atendimento em questão se dedicam sobretudo a atividades financeiras (cartões de crédito, bancos), serviço público e telefonia (celular e fixa). Os resultados apontam para a importância de se modificar os paradigmas que norteiam o projeto do trabalho dos atendentes visando reverter os processos de sofrimento e adoecimento no trabalho. Além disso, eles sugerem novos paradigmas nos quais o trabalho é considerado como uma ferramenta de desenvolvimento profissional. Portanto, um meio para a realização pessoal dos atendentes e também para atingir objetivos de produtividade e qualidade compatíveis com o desenvolvimento humano e das organizações.
Saberes e estratégias dos operadores de telemarketing frente às adversidades do trabalho
Authors: Oliveira Simone , Rezende Marcello Santos , Brito Jussara
Published: December 2012

Pretendemos contribuir para dar visibilidade aos saberes e estratégias desenvolvidos pelos operadores de telemarketing para lidarem com as situações nocivas e adversas no trabalho. Visamos indicar caminhos mais efetivos para as mudanças que são necessárias no processo de trabalho das centrais de atendimento. Como material de análise, optamos por utilizar entrevistas com dois operadores pertencentes a empresas de telefonia celular de grande porte localizadas no Rio de Janeiro, vinculados, porém, a centrais de atendimento diferentes. Nas entrevistas, buscamos nos aproximar da técnica de "instruções ao sósia" proposta por Oddone e Clot. Para análise, recorremos a conceitos da Ergonomia da Atividade, da Clínica da Atividade, da Psicodinâmica do Trabalho, do Modelo de Competências de Zarifian e da perspectiva ergológica. Observamos que, para tornar o trabalho "vivível" frente às adversidades e simultaneamente garantir o resultado esperado, os trabalhadores chegam antes do horário, driblam as "pausas", escolhem entre ficar ou sair do script, criam expressões verbais, conseguem tempos não previstos e se apóiam no coletivo de trabalho.
Avaliação da exposição de operadores de teleatendimento a ruído
Authors: Vergara Erasmo Felipe , Steffani Jovani , Gerges Samir Nagi Yousri , Pedroso Marcos
Published: December 2012

Existe um crescimento elevado da oferta de produtos e serviços das empresas de teleatendimento. Porém, os operadores usuários de fones de ouvido mostram-se afetados pela exposição a ruído, podendo estar sujeitos à perda auditiva permanente e irreversível devido à exposição acima dos limites permissíveis. Os métodos tradicionais de medição da exposição a ruído não são adequados quando a fonte sonora é instalada diretamente sobre o sistema auditivo externo (orelha) através do uso de fones. Neste trabalho, a norma ISO 11904 é usada para avaliar a exposição a ruído em operadores de teleatendimento, considerando duas técnicas: cabeça artificial padronizada e microfone em ouvido real. Os resultados obtidos demonstraram que os dois métodos aplicados são eficientes e efetivos, podendo contribuir na avaliação apropriada da exposição a ruído em usuários de fones de ouvido de teleatendimento.
A persistência da noção de ato inseguro e a construção da culpa: os discursos sobre os acidentes de trabalho em uma indústria metalúrgica
Authors: Oliveira Fábio de
Published: December 2012

Acidentes de trabalho (ATs) são conseqüências das formas pelas quais as sociedades produzem suas condições de existência e constituem-se como objetos sociais a partir de construções teórico-práticas. Tem-se constatado a existência de concepções calcadas em fatores pessoais ou psicológicos que responsabilizam os trabalhadores pelos ATs. Investigou-se a presença dessas concepções nas práticas discursivas de trabalhadores, procurando identificar os repertórios interpretativos e seus aspectos retóricos e argumentativos via análise de discurso. Realizou-se estudo de caso de empresa metalúrgica com base em observações, conversas informais, levantamento de documentos e entrevistas confrontativas com 20 operários. Constatou-se a presença marcante, nos modos de compreensão dos ATs, da Teoria dos Dominós e a predominância das explicações pelos atos inseguros, sustentadas pela naturalização dos riscos e por práticas institucionalizadas de difusão. No entanto, a construção discursiva dos ATs acontece de maneira dilemática, existindo contradições entre os diferentes repertórios interpretativos e a presença de eventos desnaturalizadores que produzem rupturas semânticas e manifestações de resistência. Assim, a pesquisa revelou aspectos polissêmicos e retóricos das práticas discursivas que atribuem significados aos ATs.
Novas tecnologias construtivas e acidentes na construção civil: o caso da introdução de um novo sistema de escoramento de formas de laje
Authors: Fonseca Eduardo Diniz , Lima Francisco de Paula Antunes
Published: December 2012

Este artigo analisa em que medida a introdução de novas tecnologias no processo produtivo da construção civil pode ser geradora de acidentes. No estudo de caso, procura-se demonstrar como a introdução de um novo tipo de escoramento para lajes nervuradas, utilizado para aumento da qualidade e da produtividade, produz novos riscos para os trabalhadores, causando acidentes. A origem desses acidentes está na ruptura entre a experiência do trabalho desenvolvida na situação anterior e a experiência ainda não plenamente desenvolvida na nova situação de trabalho. Um novo sistema de escoramento para laje pré-fabricada é introduzido imaginando-se ser necessário apenas um saber técnico específico (aprumar, alinhar, etc.), entretanto, a análise ergonômica do trabalho mostra que os acidentes acontecem porque os trabalhadores ainda não desenvolveram os saberes de prudência necessários para dominar os novos riscos.
Elementos para uma nova cultura em segurança e saúde no trabalho
Authors: Mendes Jussara Maria Rosa , Wünsch Dolores Sanches
Published: December 2012

Este artigo propõe-se a discutir o cenário contemporâneo das relações entre saúde e trabalho, apontando alguns elementos que possam contribuir para o debate sobre o tema, na perspectiva de alcançar uma nova cultura em segurança e saúde no trabalho. Evidencia-se que a predominância do viés prevencionista nesta área, que se consolidou ao longo dos anos, é resultado de um modelo hegemônico centrado no biológico e no indivíduo. A construção de práticas voltadas para a atenção à saúde do trabalhador exige uma abordagem interdisciplinar e passa pela apreensão de novos referenciais em saúde e trabalho, compreendendo-os como um processo dinâmico e social.
Effect of practicum experiences on pre-professional physical education teachers' intentions toward teaching students with disabilities in general physical education classes
Authors: Ellis M. Kathleen , Lepore Monica , Lieberman Lauren
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of practicum experiences on pre-professional physical education teachers' intentions toward working with individuals with disabilities. Pre-professional physical education teachers were students in their respective university's PETE programs and were categorized based on level of practicum experience. Over a three year period, a total of 596 PETE students completed the Physical Educators' Intention toward Teaching Individuals with Disabilities (PEITID) questionnaire (Rizzo, 2007). Significant differences were found among groups for overall intention to teach students with disabilities in their general physical education classroom. Additionally, trends of more positive intentions among pre-professionals with greater practicum experiences lead to higher Quality of Experience and Perceived Competence. The results of this study indicated that the level and quality of practicum experience significantly influence pre-professional teachers' intentions and competence toward teaching individuals with disabilities. (138 words)
Competências escolares e sociais em crianças e adolescentes com Síndrome de Williams
Authors: Hayashiuchi Ana Yaemi , Segin Miriam , Schwartzman José Salomão , Carreiro Luiz Renato Rodrigues , Teixeira Maria Cristina Triguero Veloz
Published: December 2012

A Síndrome de Williams (SW) é uma doença genética e neurocomportamental causada por uma deleção hemizigótica de múltiplos genes na região cromossômica 7q11-23. Caracteriza-se por alterações cognitivas e comportamentais que interferem no ajustamento psicossocial. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar indicadores comportamentais de habilidades nas áreas social, escolar e de realização de atividades de um grupo de crianças e adolescentes com SW e sinais de desatenção e hiperatividade. A amostra foi composta por 22 crianças e adolescentes com diagnóstico clínico e genético de SW entre sete e 18 anos, média de idade 11,6 (desvio padrão 3,7) e suas respectivas mães. Os instrumentos de coleta de dados foram a Escala de Inteligência Wechsler para Crianças, o Inventário dos Comportamentos de Crianças e Adolescentes de seis a 18 anos e um Questionário que avaliou presença de sinais de desatenção e hiperatividade baseado nos critérios clínicos para Transtorno de Déficit de Atenção e Hiperatividade do Manual de Classificação Estatística dos Transtornos Mentais da Associação Americana de Psiquiatria. Os principais resultados apontaram para um elevado número de sinais de desatenção e hiperatividade (90% do total da amostra pontuaram positivamente nesses sinais). Também foram verificados prejuízos graves nas habilidades e competências de desempenho escolar do grupo, diferentemente dos resultados positivos obtidos nas escalas de socialização e prática de esportes. Conclui-se que os resultados positivos encontrados na área social podem agir como fatores protetores para o desenvolvimento de problemas afetivos como isolamento, tristeza, sentimentos de solidão e baixa autoestima.
O PROFAE em Minas Gerais: o trabalho da Agência Regional
Authors: Madeira Lélia Maria , Gonçalves Dalva Cifuentes
Published: December 2012

Muitos esforços têm sido empreendidos em todas as regiões do país para se levar a bom termo a concretização da política de qualificação profissional na área da saúde. O Projeto de Profissionalização dos Trabalhadores da Área de Enfermagem (PROFAE) é a expressão maior desse propósito, que teve como características essenciais a descentralização e as parcerias, pelas diferentes regiões do país. Neste relato, realizado pela Agência Regional de Minas Gerais, destacam-se aspectos de sua atuação que contribuíram para significativos avanços, junto a todas as instituições envolvidas na implementação dos cursos de Complementação do Ensino Fundamental (CEF) e de Qualificação Profissional de Auxiliar de Enfermagem (CQP).
Cursos técnicos pós-médios: análise das possíveis relações com o fenômeno de contenção da demanda pelo ensino superior
Authors: Mendes Sonia Regina
Published: December 2012

Pode-se interpretar a separação entre o ensino médio e a educação profissional como um movimento que objetiva, mais uma vez, livrar a universidade pública do atendimento de contingentes cada vez maiores de alunos que concluem o ensino médio. Analisa-se, aqui, o caráter não-manifesto das orientações para a educação profissional expressas por meio do Decreto Federal 2.208/97, a partir do levantamento dos percursos escolares dos alunos que freqüentaram os cursos técnicos pós-médios nas escolas técnicas federais e no Serviço Nacional de Aprendizagem Industrial (SENAI) do Rio de Janeiro, nos anos de 1999 e 2000. Este documento indica, mais uma vez, uma tentativa do governo em conter o número de matrículas para o ensino superior público. A realidade dos alunos dos cursos técnicos pós-médios na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, ministrados de forma contínua em escolas técnicas federais e no SENAI nos anos finais do século XX, contribui para refletirmos sobre as intenções e possíveis repercussões da separação do ensino médio da educação profissional de nível técnico para boa parte dos alunos egressos do ensino médio.
Sobre o trabalho técnico em laboratórios de P&D em saúde: apontamentos para a educação profissional
Authors: Teixeira Márcia de Oliveira
Published: December 2012

Nas últimas décadas, alguns estudos apontaram para a existência de alterações significativas no conteúdo e na organização do trabalho em saúde, acarretando mudanças na formação profissionalizante nos níveis médio e superior. Todavia, poucos estudos procuraram analisar o processo de trabalho técnico em laboratórios de P em saúde nesse contexto. Este artigo reúne elementos sobre esse processo, situando-o no interior das práticas de produção dos conhecimentos e artefatos tecnocientíficos. Embora se mantenham afastados de uma discussão exaustiva, os elementos reunidos permitem uma aproximação com questões candentes à educação profissional em saúde, quais sejam, considerações acerca da especialização, da qualificação e da divisão entre concepção e execução. A discussão partiu da descrição das atividades realizadas por duas técnicas, uma de nível médio e a outra de nível superior, em um laboratório de P de vacinas. A pesquisa de campo apoiou-se nas contribuições de autores que partilham abordagens identificadas com os "Estudos Sociais da Ciência e da Tecnologia". Ao se basearem na discussão das práticas de pesquisa tecnocientífica, os estudos terminaram contribuindo para a investigação do processo de trabalho de técnicos, pesquisadores e assistentes.
Acute Renal Infarction
Authors: Bourgault Marie , Grimbert Philippe , Verret Catherine , Pourrat Jacques , Herody Michel , Halimi Jean Michel , Karras Alexandre , Amoura Zahir , Jourde-Chiche Noémie , Izzedine Hassan , François Hélène , Boffa Jean-Jacques , Hummel Aurélie , Bernadet-Monrozies Pauline , Fouque Denis , Canouï-Poitrine Florence , Lang Philippe , Daugas Eric , Audard Vincent
Published: December 2012

Background and objectives

Renal infarction is an arterial vascular event that may cause irreversible damage to kidney tissues. This study describes the clinical characteristics of patients with renal infarction according to underlying mechanism of vascular injury.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

This study retrospectively identified 94 patients with renal infarction diagnosed between 1989 and 2011 with the aim of highlighting potential correlations between demographic, clinical, and biologic characteristics and the etiology of renal infarction. Four groups were identified: renal infarction of cardiac origin (cardiac group, n=23), renal infarction associated with renal artery injury (renal injury group, n=29), renal infarction associated with hypercoagulability disorders (hypercoagulable group, n=15), and apparently idiopathic renal infarction (idiopathic group, n=27).

Results

Clinical symptoms included abdominal and/or flank pain in 96.8% of cases; 46 patients had uncontrolled hypertension at diagnosis. Laboratory findings included increase of lactate dehydrogenase level (90.5%), increase in C-reactive protein level (77.6%), and renal impairment (40.4%). Compared with renal injury group patients, this study found that cardiac group patients were older (relative risk for 1 year increase=1.21, P=0.001) and displayed a lower diastolic BP (relative risk per 1 mmHg=0.94, P=0.05). Patients in the hypercoagulable group had a significantly lower diastolic BP (relative risk=0.86, P=0.005). Patients in the idiopathic group were older (relative risk=1.13, P=0.01) and less frequently men (relative risk=0.11, P=0.02). Seven patients required hemodialysis at the first evaluation, and zero patients died during the first 30 days.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the clinical and biologic characteristics of patients can provide valuable information about the causal mechanism involved in renal infarction occurrence.
Validity of Medication Adherence Self-Reports in Adults With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Gonzalez Jeffrey S. , Schneider Havah E. , Wexler Deborah J. , Psaros Christina , Delahanty Linda M. , Cagliero Enrico , Safren Steven A.
Published: December 2012

OBJECTIVE

To assess the validity of self-report measures of diabetes medication adherence and evaluate the effect of depression on the validity of these reports.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Adults with type 2 diabetes, treated with oral medications, completed a set of medication adherence self-reports that varied response scales and time frames, were administered structured clinical interviews for depression, and provided blood samples for HbA1c as part of a screening for an intervention study. A subsample of participants with HbA1c ≥7.0% and clinically significant depression received Medication Event Monitoring System (MEMS) bottle caps to record adherence. Analyses examined relationships between adherence measures and HbA1c and, in the subsample, MEMS. Moderated linear regression evaluated whether depression severity modified relationships with HbA1c.

RESULTS

Participant (n = 170, 57% men, 81% white, mean HbA1c 8.3% [SD, 1.7]) adherence self-reports were significantly (r = −0.18 to −0.28; P < 0.03) associated with lower HbA1c. In the subsample (n = 88), all self-reports were significantly (r = 0.35 to 0.55; P ≤ 0.001) associated with MEMS-measured adherence. Depression significantly moderated the relationship between three of six self-reports and HbA1c; at high levels of depression, associations with HbA1c became nonsignificant.

CONCLUSIONS

Results support the validity of easily administered self-reports for diabetes medication adherence. One-month, percentage-based ratings of adherence had the strongest associations with MEMS and HbA1c; those requiring the report of missed doses had weaker associations. One-week self-ratings and measures that require respondents to record the number of missed doses appear to be vulnerable to bias from depression severity.
Finite-size behaviour of a critical related observable
Authors: Yuanfang Wu , Lizhu Chen , Xue Pan , Ming Shao , Chen Xiaosong
Published: December 2012

Accounting for the influence of system size in relativistic heavy ion collisions, the finite-size form of a critical related observable is suggested. The fixed-point and straight line methods are proposed in exploring the QCD critical point and phase boundary in relativistic heavy ion collisions. As an application, the finitesize behaviour of the ratios of higher net-proton cumulants, dynamical electric charge fluctuations, and transverse momentum correlations in Au + Au collisions at RHIC are examined.
Anosmia after exposure to a pyrethrin-based insecticide: A case report
Authors: Gobba Fabriziomaria , Abbacchini Carlotta
Published: December 2012

We present the case of a subject developing anosmia, preceded by nasal transient irritation and short lasting phantosmia and torqosmia, upon re-entrance into a room treated with a pyrethrin-based insecticide. The concentration of the insecticide in the room is unknown, but relatively high levels are predicted basing upon the modality of exposure and by the irritation symptoms in the subject. Despite corticosteroids therapy, anosmia has persisted unmodified for more than three years; according to, and based on evidence in the literature on olfactory disturbance prognosis, anosmia in this patient is likely to be permanent. The significance of this case report is related to the current wide use of insecticides containing pyrethrin and pyrethroids and highlights the need for more adequate attention to lowering airborne concentrations of pyrethrins and pyrethroids prior to re-entering the treated rooms. In particular, in a closed space sprayed with pyrethrins and pyrethroids insecticide, any irritant symptoms and/or dysosmia should be immediately considered relevant warning signs, and must be avoided.
Relationship between Material Characteristics of Asphalt Mixtures and Highway Noise
Authors: Kocak Salih , Kutay M. Emin
Published: December 2012

Traffic noise is a main source of total environmental noise. The major component of traffic noise is the interaction between tire and pavement. One way of reducing traffic noise is to engineer pavements such that tire–pavement noise is minimized. The objective of this research was to investigate the relationship between the tire–pavement noise generation (and absorption) and the material characteristics of asphalt pavements. This paper presents the impact of material mix design characteristics, as well as linear viscoelastic properties on sound absorption. To focus on the relationship between the noise and the internal material characteristics, a novel laboratory tire–pavement noise measurement system was developed. Although the individual material characteristics did not have an appreciable influence on the damping of sound, a strong correlation between the sound pressure level and a combination of several material characteristics was observed.
Selenium hyperaccumulation by Astragalus (Fabaceae) does not inhibit root nodule symbiosis
Authors: Alford Élan R. , Pilon‐Smits Elizabeth A. H. , Fakra Sirine C. , Paschke Mark W.
Published: December 2012

• Premise of study: A survey of the root‐nodule symbiosis in Astragalus and its interaction with selenium (Se) has not been conducted before. Such studies can provide insight into how edaphic conditions modify symbiotic interactions and influence partner coevolution. In this paper plant‐organ Se concentration ([Se]) was investigated to assess potential Se exposure to endophytes.

• Methods: Selenium distribution and molecular speciation of root nodules from Se‐hyperaccumulators Astragalus bisulcatus, A. praelongus, and A. racemosus was determined by Se K‐edge x‐ray absorption spectroscopy. A series of greenhouse experiments were conducted to characterize the response of root‐nodule symbiosis in Se‐hyperaccumulators and nonhyperaccumulators.

• Key results: Nodules in three Se‐hyperaccumulators (Astragalus crotalariae, A. praelongus, and A. preussii) are reported for the first time. Leaves, flowers, and fruits from Se‐hyperaccumulators were routinely above the hyperaccumulator threshold (1,000 µg Se g−1 DW), but root samples rarely contained that amount, and nodules never exceeded 110 µg Se g−1 DW. Nodules from A. bisulcatus, A. praelongus, and A. racemosus had Se throughout, with a majority stored in C‐Se‐C form. Finally, an evaluation of nodulation in Se‐hyperaccumulators and nonhyperaccumulators indicated that there was no nodulation inhibition because of plant Se tolerance. Rather, we found that in Se‐hyperaccumulators higher levels of Se treatment (up to 100 µM Se) corresponded with higher nodule counts, indicating a potential role for dinitrogen fixation in Se‐hyperaccumulation. The effect was not found in nonhyperaccumulators.

• Conclusions: As the evolution of Se hyperaccumulation in Astragalus developed, root‐nodule symbiosis may have played an integral role.
Microsatellite markers for Kleinia neriifolia, an endemic Asteraceae species on the Canary Islands
Authors: Chen Jun‐Lin , Li Chun , Sun Ye , Wang Fa‐Guo , Xing Fu‐Wu
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite makers were developed in Kleinia neriifolia, an endemic Asteraceae species on the Canary Islands, for investigation of the population genetic structure and colonization history of this insular species.

• Methods and Results: Seventeen polymorphic and seven monomorphic microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized from K. neriifolia using the protocol of Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences COntaining repeats (FIASCO). At the population level, the number of alleles detected per locus varied from two to 16, and the observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.105–1.000 and 0.100–0.923, respectively.

• Conclusions: These highly informative loci are potentially useful to obtain a deeper understanding of the evolutionary process of K. neriifolia.
Microsatellite markers developed for Corallodiscus lanuginosus (Gesneriaceae) and their cross‐species transferability
Authors: Gao Lian‐Ming , Zhang Zhi‐Rong , Zhou Ping , Möller Michael , Li De‐Zhu
Published: December 2012

• Premise of the study: Corallodiscus is widespread across China and in adjacent countries to the west and south, with C. lanuginosus covering the entire range of the genus. Microsatellite markers will be useful to address within‐complex taxonomic and biogeographic structures of this species.

• Methods and Results: Fourteen markers were developed using the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences COntaining repeats (FIASCO) protocol. Polymorphism was assessed in 12 individuals each from two populations from West Yunnan, China. Nine primers displayed polymorphisms. The number of alleles per locus ranged from one to six (mean: 2.7). The observed and expected heterozygosities ranged from 0 to 1 and from 0 to 0.772 (average: 0.487 and 0.448). Only one of the polymorphic loci deviated from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. Among the four congeneric species, cross‐amplification success ranged from two to eight markers.

• Conclusions: The markers will be useful for population genetic and evolutionary history studies for C. lanuginosus and the allied species C. bhutanicus, C. cooperi, and C. kingianus.
The Effect of Vitamin D Supplementation on Inflammatory and Hemostatic Markers and Disease Activity in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Randomized Placebo-controlled Trial
Authors: ABOU-RAYA ANNA , ABOU-RAYA SUZAN , HELMII MADIHAH
Published: December 2012

Objective.

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic multisystem inflammatory autoimmune disease. Vitamin D has potent immunomodulatory properties that support its use in the treatment of autoimmune conditions, including SLE. We assessed vitamin D status in patients with SLE and determined alterations in inflammatory and hemostatic markers and disease activity before and after vitamin D supplementation.

Methods.

Patients with SLE (n = 267) were randomized 2:1 to receive either oral cholecalciferol 2000 IU/day or placebo for 12 months. Outcome measures included assessment of alterations in levels of proinflammatory cytokines and hemostatic markers, and improvement in disease activity before and after 12 months of supplementation. Disease activity was measured by the SLE Disease Activity Index. Vitamin D levels were measured by Liaison immunoassay (normal 30–100 ng/ml). Serum levels between 10 and 30 ng/ml were classified as vitamin D insufficiency and levels < 10 ng/ml as vitamin D deficiency.

Results.

The mean 25(OH)D level at baseline was 19.8 ng/ml in patients compared to 28.7 ng/ml in controls. The overall prevalence of suboptimal and deficient 25(OH)D serum levels among patients with SLE at baseline was 69% and 39%, respectively. Lower 25(OH)D levels correlated significantly with higher SLE disease activity. At 12 months of therapy, there was a significant improvement in levels of inflammatory and hemostatic markers as well as disease activity in the treatment group compared to the placebo group.

Conclusion.

Vitamin D supplementation in patients with SLE is recommended because increased vitamin D levels seem to ameliorate inflammatory and hemostatic markers and show a tendency toward subsequent clinical improvement. Clinical Trial RegistryNCT01425775.
Memory CD4+ T Cells Are Required for Optimal NK Cell Effector Functions against the Opportunistic Fungal Pathogen Pneumocystis murina
Authors: Kelly Michelle N. , Zheng Mingquan , Ruan Sanbao , Kolls Jay , D’Souza Alain , Shellito Judd E.
Published: December 2012

Little is known about the role of NK cells or their interplay with other immune cells during opportunistic infections. Using our murine model of Pneumocystis pneumonia, we found that loss of NK cells during immunosuppression results in substantial Pneumocystis lung burden. During early infection of C57B/6 CD4+ T cell–depleted mice, there were significantly fewer NK cells in the lung tissue compared with CD4+ T cell–intact animals, and the NK cells present demonstrated decreased upregulation of the activation marker NKp46 and production of the effector cytokine, IFN-γ. Furthermore, coincubation studies revealed a significant increase in fungal killing when NK cells were combined with CD4+ T cells compared with either cell alone, which was coincident with a significant increase in perforin production by NK cells. Finally, however, we found through adoptive transfer that memory CD4+ T cells are required for significant NK cell upregulation of the activation marker NK group 2D and production of IFN-γ, granzyme B, and perforin during Pneumocystis infection. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to demonstrate a role for NK cells in immunity to Pneumocystis pneumonia, as well as to establish a functional relationship between CD4+ T cells and NK cells in the host response to an opportunistic fungal pathogen.
Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus Major Allergen 1 Activates the Innate Immune Response of the Fruit Fly Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Warmbold Christine , Uliczka Karin , Rus Fiorentina , Suck Roland , Petersen Arnd , Silverman Neal , Ulmer Artur J. , Heine Holger , Roeder Thomas
Published: December 2012

Some allergens with relevant protease activity have the potential to directly interact with host structures. It remains to be elucidated whether this activity is relevant for developing their allergenic properties. The major goal of this study was to elucidate whether allergens with a strong protease activity directly interact with modules of the innate immune system, thereby inducing an immune response. We chose Drosophila melanogaster for our experiments to prevent the results from being influenced by the adaptive immune system and used the armamentarium of methods available for the fly to study the underlying mechanisms. We show that Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus major allergen 1 (Der p 1), the major allergen of the house dust mite, efficiently activates various facets of the Drosophila innate-immune system, including both epithelial and systemic responses. These responses depend on the immune deficiency (IMD) pathway via activation of the NF-κB transcription factor Relish. In addition, the major pathogen associated molecular pattern recognizing receptor of the IMD pathway, peptidoglycan recognition protein–LC, was necessary for this response. We showed that Der p 1, which has cysteine protease activity, cleaves the ectodomain of peptidoglycan recognition protein–LC and, thus, activates the IMD pathway to induce a profound immune response. We conclude that the innate immune response to this allergen-mediated proteolytic cleavage represents an ancient type of danger signaling that may be highly relevant for the primary allergenicity of compounds such as Der p 1.
CD47 Deficiency Does Not Impede Polymorphonuclear Neutrophil Transmigration but Attenuates Granulopoiesis at the Postacute Stage of Colitis
Authors: Bian Zhen , Guo YaLan , Luo Youqun , Tremblay Alexandra , Zhang Xiugen , Dharma Sanam , Mishra Aarti , Liu Yuan
Published: December 2012

Previous studies have suggested that CD47, an essential cell-surface protein, plays an important role in polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) transmigration across tissue cells and extracellular matrix. In the current study, the role of CD47 in PMN transmigration and infiltration into tissues was further evaluated by investigating the function of CD47−/− PMN and inflammatory conditions induced in CD47−/− mice. Using in vitro time-course assays, we found that CD47−/− PMN exhibited no impediment, but slightly enhanced response to and transmigration toward, the chemoattractant fMLF. In vivo analysis in CD47−/− mice by inducing acute peritonitis and aggressive colitis observed consistent results, indicating that both PMN and monocytes effectively infiltrated inflammatory sites despite the absence of CD47 on these leukocytes or the surrounding tissue cells. Although PMN transmigration was not delayed in CD47−/− mice, fewer PMN were found in the intestine at the postacute/chronic stage of chronic colitis induced with sustained low-dose dextran sulfate sodium. Further analysis suggested that the paucity of PMN accumulation was attributable to attenuated granulopoiesis secondary to assessed lower levels of IL-17. Administration of exogenous IL-17A markedly increased PMN availability and rapidly rendered severe colitis in CD47−/− mice under dextran sulfate sodium treatment.
On the Adjacent Cycle Derangements
Authors: de Francesco Albasini Luisa , Zagaglia Salvi Norma
Published: December 2012

A derangement, that is, a permutation without fixed points, of a finite set is said to be an adjacent cycle when all its cycles are formed by a consecutive set of integers. In this paper we determine enumerative properties of these permutations using analytical and bijective proofs. Moreover a combinatorial interpretation in terms of linear species is provided. Finally we define and investigate the case of the adjacent cycle derangements of a multiset.
Effects of Photoperiod on Epididymal and Sperm Morphology in a Wild Rodent, the Viscacha (Lagostomus maximus maximus)
Authors: Cruceño A. M. , de Rosas J. C. , Fóscolo M. , Chaves E. M. , Scardapane L. , Dominguez S. , Aguilera-Merlo C.
Published: December 2012

The viscacha (Lagostomus maximus maximus) is a seasonal South American wild rodent. The adult males exhibit an annual reproductive cycle with periods of maximum and minimum gonadal activity. Four segments have been identified in the epididymis of this species: initial, caput, corpus, and cauda. The main objective of this work was to relate the seasonal morphological changes observed in the epididymal duct with the data from epididymal sperm during periods of activity and gonadal regression using light and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Under light and electron microscopy, epididymal corpus and cauda showed marked seasonal variations in structural parameters and in the distribution of different cellular populations of epithelium. Initial and caput segments showed mild morphological variations between the two periods. Changes in epididymal sperm morphology were observed in the periods analyzed and an increased number of abnormal gametes were found during the regression period. During this period, anomalies were found mainly in the head, midpiece, and neck, while in the activity period, defects were found only in the head. Our results confirm that the morphological characteristics of the epididymal segments, as well as sperm morphology, undergo significant changes during the reproductive cycle ofLagostomus.
Comparison of Hippocampal Volume in Dementia Subtypes
Authors: Vijayakumar Avinash , Vijayakumar Abhishek
Published: December 2012

Aims. To examine the relationship between different types of dementia and hippocampal volume. Methods. Hippocampal volume was measured using FL3D sequence magnetic resonance imaging in 26 Alzheimer's, vascular dementia, mixed dementia, and normal pressure hydrocephalus patients and 15 healthy controls and also hippocampal ratio, analyzed. Minimental scale was used to stratify patients on cognitive function impairments. Results. Hippocampal volume and ratio was reduced by 25% in Alzheimer’s disease, 21% in mixed dementia, 11% in vascular dementia and 5% in normal pressure hydrocephalus in comparison to control. Also an asymmetrical decrease in volume of left hippocampus was noted. The severity of dementia increased in accordance to decreasing hippocampal volume. Conclusion. Measurement in hippocampal volume may facilitate in differentiating different types of dementia and in disease progression. There was a correlation between hippocampal volume and severity of cognitive impairment.
Paragonimiasis Reemergence in Nigeria: Predisposing Factors and Recommendations for Early Intervention and Everlasting Eradication
Authors: Eke Reginald A. , Nwosu Udochi M. , Enwereji Ezinne E. , Emerole Chima V.
Published: December 2012

Effective paragonimiasis eradication programme in Nigeria eradicated the once endemic disease and no case was reported from 1980 to 2007. The first reported reemergence case was in 2007 and five more cases till January 2011 when this study was undertaken. This study is to determine the pre-disposing factors for the reemergence. The factors will help plan a sustainable long lasting and hopefully everlasting eradication programme. 2760 households from the identified twelve villages with the endemic disease were systematically selected. Pretested questionnaires were interviewer administered to the head of each of the selected household. The data collected were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. The pre-disposing factors that precipitated the reemergence of the disease included low level of awareness of the disease by the entire populace including the health workers. This included the causative agent, the mode of transmission, and control; conservative cultural habits of preparing crab meal; eating improperly cooked crab and also insanitary disposal of faeces and sputum. A holistic eradication programme should be planned to have sustained activities that will usher in everlasting disease-free area. The programme should involve all people, policy makers, health workers, and the entire populace, taking care of peculiarities of the peoples habits.
Ultrasonographic Features of Kidney Transplants and Their Complications: An Imaging Review
Authors: Kolofousi Chrysafoula , Stefanidis Konstantinos , Cokkinos Demosthenes D. , Karakitsos Dimitrios , Antypa Eleni , Piperopoulos Ploutarhos
Published: December 2012

Renal transplantation is the treatment of choice for managing patients with end-stage kidney disease. Being submitted to a very serious surgical procedure, renal transplant recipients can only benefit from follow-up imaging and monitoring strategies. Ultrasound is considered as the principal imaging test in the evaluation of renal transplants. It is an easily applied bedside examination that can detect possible complications and guide further imaging or intervention. In this imaging review, we present essential information regarding the sonographic features of healthy renal transplants, detailing the surgical technique and how it affects the sonoanatomy. We focus on various complications that occur following renal transplantation and their sonographic features by reviewing pertinent literature sources and our own extensive imaging archives.
Beta-Cell Age Calculator, a Translational Yardstick to Communicate Diabetes Risk with Patients: Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study
Authors: Bozorgmanesh Mohammadreza , Hadaegh Farzad , Azizi Fereidoun
Published: December 2012

Aims. To provide a yardstick for physicians/patients to efficiently communicate/measure incident diabetes risk.Methods. We included data on 5,960 (3,438 women) diabetes-free adults, aged ≥20 years at baseline who either developed diabetes during two consecutive examinations or completed the followup. Age, systolic blood pressure, family history of diabetes, waist-to-height ratio (WHtR), triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (TG/HDLD-C), and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) were introduced into an accelerated failure time regression model.Results. Annual diabetes incidence rate was 0.85/1000-person (95% CIs 0.77–0.94). Point-score-system incorporated age (1 point for >65 years), family history of diabetes (4 points), systolic blood pressure (−1 to 3 points), WHtR (−4 to 6 points), TG/HDL-C (1 point for ≥1.5), and FPG (0 to 27 points). Harrell’sCstatistic = 0.830 (95% CIs 0.808–0.852) and Hosmer-Lemeshowχ2=9.7(Pfor lack of fitness = 0.462) indicated good discrimination and calibration. We defined beta-cell age as chronological age of a person with the same predicted risk but all risk factors at the normal levels (i.e., WHtR 0.50, no family history of diabetes, Ln (TG/HDL-C) = 0.531, and FPG = 4.9 (mmol·L−1)).Conclusion. Hereby, we have made it also possible to estimate wide ranges of “beta-cell age” for most chronological ages to assist clinician with risk communication.
High-Speed Ice Friction Experiments under Lab Conditions: On the Influence of Speed and Normal Force
Authors: Scherge Matthias , Böttcher Roman , Richter Mike , Gurgel Udo
Published: December 2012

Using a high-speed tribometer, coefficients of friction for bobsled runners were measured over a wide range of loads and speeds. Between 2.8 m/s and 28 m/s (equal to 10 km/h and 100 km/h), the measured coefficients of friction showed a linear decrease with increasing speed. The experiments revealed ultra-low friction coefficients of less than 0.01 after exceeding a sliding speed of about 20 m/s. At maximum speed of 28 m/s, the average coefficient of friction was 0.007. The experiments help to bridge the gap between numerous low-speed friction tests by other groups and tests performed with bobsleds on real tracks. It was shown that the friction data obtained by other groups and our measurements can be approximated by a single master curve. This curve exhibits the largest decrease in friction up to a sliding speed of about 3 m/s. The further increase in speed generates only a small decrease in friction. In addition, friction decreases with increasing load. The decrease stops when ice wear becomes effective. The load point of constant friction depends on the cross-sectional radius of the runner. The larger the radius is, the higher the load is, before the ice shows signs of fracture. It turned out that besides aerodynamic drag (not considered in this work), ice friction is one of the main speed-limiting factors. In terms of runner geometry, a flat contact of runner and ice ensures the lowest friction. The rocker radius of the runner is of greater importance for a low coefficient of friction than the cross-sectional radius.
A Municipality's Experience on Revenue Generation and Public Economic Enterprise Development
Authors: Del Castillo Maria Consuelo R. , Gayao Rey Dan G.
Published: December 2012

The Local Government Code of 1991 has opened opportunities for local government units (LGUs) to generate more revenues beyond traditional sources like the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA). This study focused one municipality in Bukidnon and its experience on revenue generation and economic enterprise development for 1996-2007. Initially, the study looked into the socio-economic profile of the municipality. It then surveyed successful experiences on revenue generation by other LGUs. The study's analytical framework considers the LGU as operating within a market environment and the community. The 1991 Local Government Code acts as the major policy guide for LGU operations towards efficient and effective delivery of goods and services to the public. The study analyzed trends in the municipality's revenue generation along traditional sources: Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA), real property tax (RPT), and other local taxes. It then examined trends in the LGU's economic enterprises: waterworks, public market and slaughter house, and the heavy equipment unit. The focus group discussion among the enterprises' stakeholders revealed a number of organizational factors which affected the enterprises' operations.