bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rare non-auto immunodeficiency disease (AIDS) related neo-plasm Kaposi sarcoma in Iraqi man: a case report
Authors: Al-Helfi Haider , Al-Saad Rasha , Al-Shewered Ahmed
Published: March 2015

The aim of this article is to report unusual case of KS presenting in the patient with negative serology for AIDS. Kaposi Sarcoma (KS) is a rare entity. It is a vascular neoplasm mainly affecting the skin of the lower extremities. Although it is the most common neoplasm affecting patients with AIDS, sporadic cases in HIV-negative people have been reported but it is rare.Â  Here, we present a case of a non-auto immunodeficiency disease (AIDS) related KS. A 72 year-old male, Iraqi patient presented to our oncology outpatientâ€™s unit in Al-Shafaa Oncology Center with multiple subcutaneous nodules. The diagnosis was based on histopathological and immunohistochemical analysis of the excised lesion, serology tests and imaging investigations. The patient had a 13-month history of a slowly progressing pigmented multiple lesions on the lower and upper extremities. The patient had visceromegaly as splenomegaly at the time of presentation. His serum was negative for the common types of viral infections including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) on routine serology. On general examination, the man look well, no pallor, no fever, no cachexia present and no jaundice. There are a multiple ill defined, irregular hyper-pigmented nodules to plaques were present on forearm, legs, feet and hands. The nodules and plaque was firm in consistency and was non-tender. The lesions were deep reddish to brownish in color. The size of the lesions were arranged from 0.5-1.5 cm. No scaling was evident. The patient was under treatment with chemotherapeutic regimen of Paclitaxel.Â
No Stone Left Unturned: Exploring the Convergence of New Capitalism in Inclusive Education in the U.S.
Authors: Waitoller Federico R. , Kozleski Elizabeth B.
Published: March 2015

This paper examines how inclusive education reform is appropriated when New Capitalism work practices dominate the discourse of school improvement in an urban school. We asked how New Capitalism mediates the formation of a professional vision for inclusive education. Using analytical tools from Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), we analyzed school, district, and university documents and artifacts, interviews, field observations gathered by site professors, videos of teachers’ classroom practices, and video-stimulated interviews. The findings demonstrate how New Capitalism shaped a professional vision (Goodwin, 1994) for inclusive education through the deployment of certain technologies such as performativity and its graphic displays of quality and auditing practices. Performativity shaped relationships among school personnel and their understanding of their work, inclusive education, and students from ethnic minorities struggling to learn. Our discussion of the findings and our recommendations are guided by an inclusive education agenda that addresses issues of misdistribution, misrecognition, and misrepresentation.
A novel inactivating mutation of the LH/chorionic gonadotrophin receptor with impaired membrane trafficking leading to Leydig cell hypoplasia type 1
Authors: Rivero-Müller Adolfo , Potorac Iulia , Pintiaux Axelle , Daly Adrian F , Thiry Albert , Rydlewski Catherine , Nisolle Michelle , Parent Anne-Simone , Huhtaniemi Ilpo , Beckers Albert
Published: March 2015

Objective

The LH/chorionic gonadotrophin receptor (LHCGR) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that plays a central role in male sexual differentiation, regulation of ovarian follicular maturation, ovulation and maintenance of corpus luteum and pregnancy, as well as maintenance of testicular testosterone production. Mutations in theLHCGRgene are very rare. The aim of this work was to study the clinical and molecular characteristics of a rare familialLHCGRmutation.

Methods

Five affected members of a family, including a phenotypically female, but genotypically male (46,XY), patient with Leydig cell hypoplasia type 1 and four genotypically female siblings with reproductive abnormalities, were studied genetically. Cell trafficking studies as well as signalling studies of mutated receptor were performed.

Results

The five affected patients were all homozygous for a novel mutation in theLHCGRgene, a deletion of guanine in position 1850 (1850delG). This resulted in a frameshift affecting most of the C-terminal intracellular domain.In vitrostudies demonstrated that the 1850delG receptor was completely incapable of transit to the cell membrane, becoming trapped within the endoplasmic reticulum. This could not be rescued by small-molecule agonist treatment or stimulated intracellularly by co-expression of a yoked human chorionic gonadotrophin.

Conclusions

This novelLHCGRmutation leads to complete inactivation of the LHCGR receptor due to trafficking and signalling abnormalities, which improves our understanding of the impact of the affected structural domain on receptor trafficking and function.
Mapping Bias Overestimates Reference Allele Frequencies at the HLA Genes in the 1000 Genomes Project Phase I Data
Authors: Brandt Débora Y C , Aguiar Vitor R C , Bitarello Bárbara D , Nunes Kelly , Goudet Jérôme , Meyer Diogo
Published: March 2015

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies have become the standard for data generation in studies of population genomics, as the 1000 Genomes Project (1000G). However, these techniques are known to be problematic when applied to highly polymorphic genomic regions, such as the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes. Because accurate genotype calls and allele frequency estimations are crucial to population genomics analyses, it is important to assess the reliability of NGS data. Here, we evaluate the reliability of genotype calls and allele frequency estimates of the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) reported by 1000G (phase I) at five HLA genes (HLA-A, -B, -C, -DRB1, and -DQB1). We take advantage of the availability of HLA Sanger sequencing of 930 of the 1092 1000G samples and use this as a gold standard to benchmark the 1000G data. We document that 18.6% of SNP genotype calls in HLA genes are incorrect and that allele frequencies are estimated with an error greater than ±0.1 at approximately 25% of the SNPs in HLA genes. We found a bias toward overestimation of reference allele frequency for the 1000G data, indicating mapping bias is an important cause of error in frequency estimation in this dataset. We provide a list of sites that have poor allele frequency estimates and discuss the outcomes of including those sites in different kinds of analyses. Because the HLA region is the most polymorphic in the human genome, our results provide insights into the challenges of using of NGS data at other genomic regions of high diversity.
Quantitative Genetics of Migration-Related Traits in Rainbow and Steelhead Trout
Authors: Hecht Benjamin C , Hard Jeffrey J , Thrower Frank P , Nichols Krista M
Published: March 2015

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) exhibit remarkable life history diversity throughout their native range, and among the most evident is variation in migratory propensity. Although some populations and ecotypes will remain resident in freshwater habitats throughout their life history, others have the ability to undertake tremendous marine migrations. Those that migrate undergo a suite of behavioral, morphological, and physiological adaptations in a process called smoltification. We describe a quantitative genetic analysis of 22 growth, size, and morphological traits in addition to overall life history classification (resident or migrant) over the temporal process of smoltification in a large multi-generation experimental pedigree (n = 16,139) of migratory and resident rainbow trout derived from a wild population, which naturally segregates for migratory propensity. We identify significant additive genetic variance and covariance among the suite of traits that make up a component of the migratory syndrome in this species. Additionally, we identify high heritability estimates for the life history classifications and observe a strong negative genetic correlation between the migratory and resident life history trajectories. Given the large heritability estimates of all of the traits that segregate between migratory and resident rainbow trout, we conclude that these traits can respond to selection. However, given the high degree of genetic correlation between these traits, they do not evolve in isolation, but rather as a suite of coordinated characters in a predictable manner.
Charged/Polar-Residue Scanning of the Hydrophobic Face of Transmembrane Domain 9 of the Yeast Glutathione Transporter, Hgt1p, Reveals a Conformationally Critical Region for Substrate Transport
Authors: Thakur Anil , Bachhawat Anand K
Published: March 2015

Unraveling the mechanistic workings of membrane transporters has remained a challenging task. We describe a novel strategy that involves subjecting the residues of the hydrophobic face of a transmembrane helix to a charged/polar scanning mutagenesis. TMD9 of the yeast glutathione transporter, Hgt1p, has been identified as being important in substrate binding, and two residues, F523 and Q526, are expected to line the substrate translocation channel while the other face is hydrophobic. The hydrophobic face of TMD9 helix consists of residues A509, V513, L517, L520, I524, and I528, and these were mutated to lysine, glutamine, and glutamic acid. Among the 16 charged mutants created, six were nonfunctional, revealing a surprising tolerance of charged residues in the hydrophobic part of TM helices. Furthermore, the only position that did not tolerate any charged residue was I524, proximal to the substrate binding residues. However, P525, also proximal to the substrate binding residues, did tolerate charged/polar residues, suggesting that mere proximity to the substrate binding residues was not the only factor. The I524K/E/Q mutants expressed well and localized correctly despite lacking any glutathione uptake capability. Isolation of suppressors for all nonfunctional mutants yielded second-site suppressors only for I524K and I524Q, and suppressors for these mutations appeared at G202K/I and G202K/Q, respectively. G202 is in the hydrophilic loop between TMD3 and TMD4. The results suggest that I524 in the hydrophobic face interacts with this region and is also in a conformationally critical region for substrate translocation.
The Maintenance of Single-Locus Polymorphism by Maternal Selection
Authors: Spencer Hamish G , Chiew Kai X
Published: March 2015

Population geneticists have long been interested in the ability of natural selection to maintain the levels of standing variation observed in natural populations. Here, we study the polymorphism-maintaining properties of maternal selection, in which the fitness of an individual is a function of its own and its mother’s genotype. Using a model proposed by Gavrilets, we first estimate the proportion of parameter/state space that preserves allelic variation, before investigating the construction of polymorphism over time through the joint action of mutation and selection. These two methods, the “parameter-space” and “constructionist” approaches, respectively, enable us to draw some general conclusions. We argue that, even though the proportion of parameter-state space allowing multiallele polymorphism is greater under maternal selection than under the standard model of constant viability selection, the former is, in fact, less likely to maintain large numbers of alleles. Nevertheless, variation that is balanced by maternal selection is likely to show elements of heterozygous advantage and be resistant to depletion by genetic drift. We observe that the population mean fitness frequently decreases after the successful invasion of a new mutation, but such declines are usually temporary.
Discs large 5, an Essential Gene inDrosophila, Regulates Egg Chamber Organization
Authors: Reilly Eve , Changela Neha , Naryshkina Tatyana , Deshpande Girish , Steward Ruth
Published: March 2015

Discs large 5 (Dlg5) is a member of the MAGUK family of proteins that typically serve as molecular scaffolds and mediate signaling complex formation and localization. In vertebrates, Dlg5 has been shown to be responsible for polarization of neural progenitors and to associate with Rab11-positive vesicles in epithelial cells. In Drosophila, however, the function of Dlg5 is not well-documented. We have identified dlg5 as an essential gene that shows embryonic lethality. dlg5 embryos display partial loss of primordial germ cells (PGCs) during gonad coalescence between stages 12 and 15 of embryogenesis. Loss of Dlg5 in germline and somatic stem cells in the ovary results in the depletion of both cell lineages. Reduced expression of Dlg5 in the follicle cells of the ovary leads to a number of distinct phenotypes, including defects in egg chamber budding, stalk cell overgrowth, and ectopic polar cell induction. Interestingly, loss of Dlg5 in follicle cells results in abnormal distribution of a critical component of cell adhesion, E-cadherin, shown to be essential for proper organization of egg chambers.
Effect of thermal treatments on technological properties of wood from two Eucalyptus species
Authors: Cademartori Pedro Henrique G. de , Missio André L. , Mattos Bruno D. , Gatto Darci A.
Published: March 2015

The effect of thermal treatments on physical and mechanical properties of rose gum and Sydney blue gum wood was evaluated. Wood samples were thermally modified in a combination: pre-treatment in an autoclave (127°C - 1h) and treatment in an oven (180-240°C - 4h); and only treatment in an oven at 180-240°C for 4h. Chemical changes in the structure of woods were evaluated through infrared spectroscopy. Evaluation of physical properties was performed through mass loss, specific gravity, equilibrium moisture content and dimensional stability tests. Surface changes were analyzed through apparent contact angle technique and static bending tests were carried out to evaluate the mechanical behavior. Use of pre-treatment in autoclave affected the properties analyzed, however oven, resulted in the highest changes on wood from both species. Chemical changes were related to the degradation of hemicelluloses. Moreover, a significant decrease of hygroscopicity and mechanical strength of thermally modified woods was observed, while specific gravity did not significantly change for either of the species studied. The best results of decrease of wettability were found in low temperatures, while dimensional stability increased as a function of temperature of exposure in oven. The highest loss of mechanical strength was observed at 240°C for both species.
Economic aspects of production of Caiman crocodilus yacare
Authors: Carreira Laura B.T. , Sabbag Omar J.
Published: March 2015

The breeding of crocodilians is still a recent activity in Brazil. Its peak was in the 1990's, but it has gaps in its production, as there are no norms for the commercial breeding of these animals in captivity. However, its economic potential is great, and the search for ecological balance and viability of commercial production has become a challenge among farmers of this activity. Therefor, the objective of the study was to economically analyze the production of Caiman crocodilus yacareon a farm located in Caceres, state of Mato Grosso, identifying relevant items of costs in the activity, as well as the parameters related to the profitability and viability of the activity. The economic results for the breeding of this animal were positive, with profitability ratios higher than 70%.
Wide-range genetic connectivity of Coney, Cephalopholis fulva (Epinephelidae), through oceanic islands and continental Brazilian coast
Authors: Souza Allyson S. de , Dias Júnior Eurico A. , Galetti Jr Pedro M. , Machado Erik G. , Pichorim Mauro , Molina Wagner F.
Published: March 2015

The Epinephelidae form a group of species of high biological and economical interests. It´s phylogeographic patterns are not well known especially the distributed populations in the western region of the Atlantic Ocean. Among the representatives is a small species called Cephalopholis fulva, Coney, which presents a wide geographical distribution, polychromia, hermaphroditism and is quickly becoming a large target for the exploration of commercial fishing. The genetic and historical demography were obtained through the partial sequence analysis of Control Region from six locations on the coastline of Brazil from the northeast coast to the southwest coast, including the oceanic islands of Rocas Atoll and Fernando de Noronha Archipelago. The analyzed samples revealed a high genetic variability and a strong gene flow among the sampled locations. Additionally, the genetic data revealed that population expansions probably occurred due to the changes in the sea levels that occurred during the Pleistocene. The large population connectivity found in Coney constitutes relevant conditions for their biological conservation.
Setting boundaries: Environmental and spatial effects on Odonata larvae distribution (Insecta)
Authors: Mendes Thiago P. , Cabette Helena S. R. , Juen Leandro
Published: March 2015

Environmental characteristics and spatial distances between sites have been used to explain species distribution in the environment, through Neutral (space) and Niche theory (environment) predictions. We evaluated the effects of spatial and environmental factors on Odonata larvae distribution along the Suiá-Missú River Basin, state of Mato Grosso. We tested the hypotheses that (1) the environment is the main factor structuring the community due to its ecophysiological requirements; and (2) the pattern, if present, is clearer for Zygoptera. Samples were made in 12 sites on the Suiá-Missú River Basin in three seasons (2007/2008), with a total of 1.382 Odonata larvae, comprising 10 families, 51 genera and 100 morphospecies. The Anisoptera were more abundant than Zygoptera, comprising 81% of all specimens. The environment affected Zygoptera (R=0.291; p=0.007) and was the main factor structuring the assembly. Thus, Niche theory was confirmed. The absence of this effect on Anisoptera may be due to the ecophysiological adaptations that enable it to occupy different habitats. Zygoptera larvae are indicators of changes in habitat structure. The effects of environmental variables on larvae ecology emphasize the strong relationship between these organisms and environmental integrity.
Fitting mathematical models to lactation curves from holstein cows in the southwestern region of the state of Parana, Brazil
Authors: Ferreira Abílio G.T. , Henrique Douglas S. , Vieira Ricardo A.M. , Maeda Emilyn M. , Valotto Altair A.
Published: March 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate four mathematical models with regards to their fit to lactation curves of Holstein cows from herds raised in the southwestern region of the state of Parana, Brazil. Initially, 42,281 milk production records from 2005 to 2011 were obtained from "Associação Paranaense de Criadores de Bovinos da Raça Holandesa (APCBRH)". Data lacking dates of drying and total milk production at 305 days of lactation were excluded, resulting in a remaining 15,142 records corresponding to 2,441 Holstein cows. Data were sorted according to the parity order (ranging from one to six), and within each parity order the animals were divided into quartiles (Q25%, Q50%, Q75% and Q100%) corresponding to 305-day lactation yield. Within each parity order, for each quartile, four mathematical models were adjusted, two of which were predominantly empirical (Brody and Wood) whereas the other two presented more mechanistic characteristics (models Dijkstra and Pollott). The quality of fit was evaluated by the corrected Akaike information criterion. The Wood model showed the best fit in almost all evaluated situations and, therefore, may be considered as the most suitable model to describe, at least empirically, the lactation curves of Holstein cows raised in Southwestern Parana.
Detection of proteases from Sporosarcina aquimarina and Algoriphagus antarcticus isolated from Antarctic soil
Authors: Santos Anderson F. , Pires Fabiano , Jesus Hugo E. , Santos André L.S. , Peixoto Raquel , Rosado Alexandre S. , D'Avila-Levy Claudia M. , Branquinha Marta H.
Published: March 2015

Two psychrophilic bacterial samples were isolated from King George Island soil, in Antarctica. The phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA (rrs) gene led to the correlation with the closest related isolates as Sporosarcina aquimarina (99%) and Algoriphagus antarcticus(99%), with query coverage of 99% and 98%, respectively.The spent culture media from both isolates displayed proteolytic activities detected by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis containing gelatin as protein substrate. Under the employed conditions, S. aquimarina showed a 55 kDa protease with the best activity detected at pH 7.0 and at 27°C. A. antarcticusalso showed a single extracellular protease, however its molecular mass was around 90kDa and its best activity was detected at pH 9.0 and at 37°C. The proteases from both isolates were inhibited by 1,10-phenanthroline and EDTA, two metalloprotease inhibitors. This is the first record of protease detection in both species, and our results may contribute to broaden the basic knowledge of proteases from the Antarctica environment and may help prospecting future biotechnological applications of these enzymes.
On the fossil Remains of Panochthus Burmeister, 1866 (Xenarthra, Cingulata, Glyptodontidae) from the Pleistocene of southern Brazil
Authors: Ferreira José D. , Zamorano Martín , Ribeiro Ana Maria
Published: March 2015

The genus Panochthus represents the last lineage of "Panochthini" recorded in the Pleistocene. This genus has a wide latitudinal distribution in South America, and in Brazil it occurs in the southern and northeastern regions. In this paper we describe new material (isolated osteoderms and caudal tube fragments) assigned to Panochthus from the state of Rio Grande do Sul (southern Brazil) and discuss some taxonomic issues related to Panochthus tuberculatus and Panochthus greslebini based on this material . The occurrence of P. greslebini is the first for outside the Brazilian Intertropical Region. In addition, we describe new diagnostic features to differentiate the osteoderms of P. greslebini and P. tuberculatus. Unfortunately, it was not possible to identify some osteoderms at the species level. Interestingly, they showed four distinct morphotypes characterized by their external morphology, and thus were attributed to Panochthus sp. Lastly, we conclude that in addition to P.tuberculatus registered to southern Brazil, there is another species of the genus, assignable to P. cf. P. greslebini. Our analysis reinforce the reliability of caudal tube characters for the classification of species of Panochthus.
Efficiency of eugenol as anesthetic for the early life stages of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Ribeiro Paula A.P. , Miranda-Filho Kleber C. , Melo Daniela C. de , Luz Ronald K.
Published: March 2015

In aquaculture, activities with anesthetic compounds are usually used in order to ensure the welfare of farmed fish, allowing handling out of water with decreased trauma by stress. Presently, there is no information about anesthetic action of eugenol in early life stages of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The objective of this study was to evaluate different concentrations of eugenol for larvae and juveniles of Nile tilapia. Sixty animals were used for each group of weight, group I = 0.02 g; group II = 0.08 g; group III = 0.22 g; group IV = 2.62 g; and group V = 11.64 g. The eugenol concentrations tested were 50, 75, 100, 125, 150 and 175 mg L-1. No mortality was reported during the tests with eugenol. Tilapia larvae with 0.02 g and juveniles around 11.64 g can be anesthetized with eugenol concentrations between 150 and 175 mg L-1, since they determine the shortest sedation time (23 and 72 seconds, for the group of lowest and highest weights, respectively).
Leaf and inflorescence axis anatomy of Brazilian species of Rapateoideae (Rapateaceae, Poales)
Authors: Daltin Ângela L. , Oriani Aline , Scatena Vera L.
Published: March 2015

The anatomy of leaves and inflorescence axes of Spathanthus (2 spp.), Rapatea (2 spp.), Cephalostemon(1 sp.), and Duckea(1 sp.) (Rapateoideae, Rapateaceae) was studied to identify useful characters for taxonomy. The cross-section shape of inflorescence axis differentiates the genera, while the cross-section shape and structure of leaf midrib has a specific value. The following characteristics are exclusive of Spathanthus: silica cells randomly distributed in the leaf epidermis; plicate chlorenchyma in the leaf blade; presence of fiber bundles in the mesophyll and in the inflorescence axis parenchyma. Spathanthus is also distinguished by the number, type and distribution of vascular bundles in the inflorescence axis. The genus Rapatea is characterized by the presence of stomata and silica cells only on the abaxial epidermis of the leaves and chlorenchyma composed of arm cells in the leaf blade. Characteristics with diagnostic value for Cephalostemon riedelianusare: leaf epidermal cells with straight to slightly sinuous walls in frontal view, inflorescence axes presenting a defined cortex, fiber bundles facing the larger vascular bundles and a fistulous pith. The anatomical characteristics of the leaves and inflorescence axes thus proved to be of taxonomic value in generic and specific levels. They are also useful to differentiate Rapateoideae from other subfamilies of Rapateaceae.
Didelphidae marsupials (Mammalia, Didelphimorphia) from the Late Pleistocene deposit of the Gruta dos Moura Cave, northern Brazil
Authors: Nova Patricia Villa , Avilla Leonardo S. , Oliveira Édison V.
Published: March 2015

The present study acknowledges the diversity of fossil marsupials from the Gruta dos Moura cave, as well as environmental and climatic aspects during the Quaternary. The results show that this is the largest diversity of Pleistocene marsupials recorded in a single cave: Didelphis albiventris, D. aurita, Gracilinanus agilis, G. microtarsus, Marmosa murina, Monodelphis brevicaudata, M. domesticaand Sairadelphys tocantinensis. Furthermore, the described specimens are also part of the only fossil assemblage unequivocally referable to the late Pleistocene. Paleontological studies suggest an intimate association with dry and open environments with high abundance of water sources. Since most of the identified taxa are characteristic of open forests and gallery forests, this could represent the actual environment around the Gruta dos Moura cave. Recent studies identified sympatric occurrences between species from open and dry environments and species from humid forests that were identified among our material and are characteristic of humid regions. Therefore, these species could inhabit gallery forests and capons, or even ecotones, inside a dry and open environment. Moreover, the extinction of Sairadelphyscould also indicate that the climatic and environmental conditions changed or that the past environment was more heterogeneous than the current environment of the region.
Use of Doehlert and constrained mixture designs in the development of a photo-oxidation procedure using UV radiation/H2O2 for decomposition of landfill leachate samples and determination of metals by flame atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Bezerra Marcos A. , Souza Antônio D.S. , Oliveira Rafael V. , Oliveira Djalma M. , Cardoso Luiz A.M. , Sousa Filho Hélio R.
Published: March 2015

This work proposes the use of photo-oxidation degradation with UV radiation/H2O2 as sample treatment for the determination of Fe, Zn, Mn, Ni and Co in municipal solid waste landfill leachate by flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). Three variables (pH, irradiation time and buffer concentration) were optimized using Doehlert design and the proportions of mixture components submitted to UV radiation (leachate sample, buffer solution and H2O2 30%, v/v) were optimized using a constrained mixture design. Using the experimental conditions established, this procedure allows limits of detection of 0.075, 0.025, 0.010, 0.075 and 0.041 µg mL-1, and the precision levels expressed as relative standard (%RSD, 0.5 µg mL-1) were 3.6, 1.8, 1.3, 3.3 and 1.7%, for Fe, Mn, Zn, Ni and Co respectively. Recovery tests were carried out for evaluation of the procedure accuracy and recoveries were between 92 and 106% for the studied metals. This procedure has been applied for the analysis of the landfill leachate collected in Jequié, a city of the southwestern region of the State of Bahia, Brazil. The results were compared with those obtained by acid digestion. There was no significant difference between the results obtained by the two methods based on paired t-test at 95% confidence level.
Effect of essential oil from Citrus aurantium in maternal reproductive outcome and fetal anomaly frequency in rats
Authors: Volpato Gustavo T. , Francia-Farje Luis A.D. , Damasceno Débora C. , Oliveira Renata V. , Hiruma-Lima Clélia A. , Kempinas Wilma G.
Published: March 2015

Citrus aurantium L., commonly known as bitter orange, is widely used in folk medicine, but there is little data in the literature about the effects on pregnancy. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of essential oil obtained from fruits of Citrus aurantium on the maternal reproductive outcome and fetal anomaly incidence in rats. Pregnant Wistar rats were randomized into four groups (n minimum = 12 animals/group): G1 = control, G2 to G4 = treated with essential oil from C. aurantium at dose 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively. Rats were orally treated, by gavage, with plant essential oil or vehicle during pre-implantation and organogenic period (gestational day 0-14). On gestational day 20 the rats were anaesthetized and the gravid uterus was weighed with its contents and the fetuses were analyzed. Results showed that the treated group with 500 mg/kg presented decreased placental weights and placental index, although the treatment with bitter orange essential oil did not show any alteration in maternal reproductive performance, toxicological effect, changes in ossification sites, and malformation index. In conclusion, the treatment of Citrus aurantium essential oil was not teratogenic and did not alter the maternal reproductive outcome.
Chemosystematic aspects of polyisoprenylated benzophenones from the genus Clusia
Authors: Anholeti Maria Carolina , Paiva Selma R. de , Figueiredo Maria Raquel , Kaplan Maria Auxiliadora C.
Published: March 2015

Benzophenone derivatives are special metabolites that arouse great scientific interest. The Clusiaceae family is known for producing large amounts of benzophenone derivatives with several isoprene residues on their structures, which are responsible for the observed complexity and structural variety in this class of substances, and also contribute to their biological activities. Clusia is an important genus belonging to Clusiaceae, with 55 different polyisoprenylated benzophenones identified so far. These substances were analyzed from biosynthetic and chemosystematic points of view, allowing the determination of characteristics regarding their production, accumulation and distribution within this genus. Polyisoprenylated benzophenones found in Clusiashowed a high prenylation degree, with 2 to 5 isoprene units and a greater occurrence in flowers and fruits. Section Cordylandra showed a very similar occurrence of 2,4,6-trihydroxybenzophenone derivatives and bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,4,9-trione derivatives, the majority of them with 4 isoprene units. In section Anandrogyne there is a predominance of simple 2,4,6-trihydroxy-benzophenone derivatives, with 2 isoprene units, and in Chlamydoclusia predominates bicyclo[3.3.1]nonane-2,4,9-trione derivatives with 4 isoprene units. Although highly prenylated, these substances showed low oxidation indexes, which from an evolutionary perspective corroborates the fact that Clusiaceae is a family in transition, with some common aspects with both basal and derived botanical families.
Prevalence and correlates of sleep disorders in Parkinson’s disease: a polysomnographic study
Authors: Alatriste-Booth Vanessa , Rodríguez-Violante Mayela , Camacho-Ordoñez Azyadeh , Cervantes-Arriaga Amin
Published: March 2015

Objective Sleep disorders in Parkinson’s disease are very common. Polysomnography (PSG) is considered the gold standard for diagnosis. The aim of the present study is to assess the prevalence of nocturnal sleep disorders diagnosed by polysomnography and to determine the associated clinical factors. Method A total of 120 patients with Parkinson’s disease were included. All patients underwent a standardized overnight, single night polysomnography. Results Ninety-four (78.3%) patients had an abnormal PSG. Half of the patients fulfilled criteria for sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS); rapid eye movement behavior disorder (RBD) was present in 37.5%. Characteristics associated with SAHS were age (p = 0.049) and body mass index (p = 0.016). Regarding RBD, age (p < 0.001), left motor onset (p = 0.047) and levodopa equivalent dose (p = 0.002) were the main predictors. Conclusion SAHS and RBD were the most frequent sleep disorders. Higher levodopa equivalent dose and body mass index appear to be risk factors for RBD and SAHS, respectively.
Liposomal topical capsaicin in post-herpetic neuralgia: a safety pilot study
Authors: Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen , Menezes Luciana Mendes Bahia , Silva Valquiria , Galhardoni Ricardo , Sasson José , Okada Massako , Duarte Kleber Paiva , Yeng Lin T. , Andrade Daniel Ciampi de
Published: March 2015

Topical treatments have gained popularity for general use as an adjunct to systemic drugs in neuropathic pain, but their use produces variable clinical results and local adverse events. Objective To evaluate the safety and analgesic effect of a formulation of liposomal capsaicin (LC) (0.025%) in patients with post herpetic neuralgia (PHN). Method Patients who remained symptomatic after first-and second-line treatment were randomized to receive LC for six weeks in a placebo-controlled, crossover design study. Clinical assessment was performed at baseline, in the second, fourth and sixth week of treatment. Results Thirteen patients completed both treatment periods. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was significantly decreased after the end of the study (p = 0.008), however the effect of treatment was not significant (p = 0.076). There was no difference on global impression of change and other pain characteristics. LC was safe and well tolerated. However, at the concentration used, its analgesic effects were marginal and not significant.
Personality factors in recently diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients: a preliminary investigation with the NEO-FFI scale
Authors: Lima Aline Braz de , Paes Renata Alves , Alvarenga Regina Maria Papais
Published: March 2015

This article describes some prevalent personality dimensions of recently diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients. A sample of 33 female recently diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) was assessed with the NEO-FFI personality scale. Beck depression (BDI) and anxiety (BAI) scales were also used. No significant levels of anxiety or depression were identified in this group. As for personality factors, conscientiousness was the most common factor found, whereas openness to experience was the least observed. Literature on the relationship between personality and MS is scarce and there are no Brazilian studies on this subject. Some personality traits might complicate or facilitate the experience of living with a chronic, disabling and uncertain neurological condition such as MS.
Brazilian consensus on guidelines for diagnosis and treatment for restless legs syndrome
Authors: Fröhlich Alan Christmann , Eckeli Alan Luiz , Bacelar Andrea , Poyares Dalva , Pachito Daniela Vianna , Stelzer Fernando Gustavo , Coelho Fernando Morgadinho Santos , Rizzo Geraldo Nunes Vieira , Prado Gilmar Fernandes do , Sander Heidi Haueisen , Goulart Leonardo Ierardi , Lucchesi Ligia Mendonça , Gitai Lívia Leite Góes , Prado Lucila Bizari Fernandes do , Ataíde-Junior Luiz , Bezerra Marcio Luciano de Souza , Lopes Maria Cecília , Trentin Marine Meliksetyan , Rodrigues Raimundo Nonato Delgado , Hasan Rosa , Alves Rosana S. Cardoso , Schönwald Suzana Veiga , Moraes Walter André dos Santos
Published: March 2015

The Consensus on restless legs syndrome is an effort of neurologists from several Brazilian states, which tirelessly reviewed the literature of recent years in search of evidence, both in regard to diagnosis and treatment, according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine.
The role of transrectal ultrasound in the diagnosis of prostate cancer: new contributions
Authors: Lopes Pedro Marinho , Sepúlveda Luís , Ramos Rui , Sousa Pedro
Published: March 2015

Objective: The present study was aimed at evaluating the contribution of transrectal prostate ultrasound in the screening for prostate neoplasias and in the guidance of prostate biopsies. Materials and Methods: Prospective study developed over a one-year period. All the patients with indication for prostate biopsy were evaluated. Regardless of PSA values, the patients underwent ultrasound in order to identify suspicious nodules (confirmed by two observers). Sextant biopsy was subsequently performed. In cases of finding suspicious nodules, an additional puncture directed to such nodules was done. Results: In a total of 155 cases the prevalence of malignancy was of 53%. Suspicious nodules were detected in 34 patients, and 25 where malignant (positive predictive value of 74%). The specificity and sensitivity for suspicious nodules were 88% and 31% respectively. Comparatively with the randomly obtained sextant specimens, the rate of findings of neoplasia was higher in the specimens obtained with puncture directed to the nodule (p = 0.032). No statistically significant difference was observed in the Gleason score for both types of specimens (p = 0.172). Conclusion: The high positive predictive value and the high rate of findings of neoplasia in specimens of suspicious nodules should be taken into consideration in the future. The authors suggest a biopsy technique similar to the one described in the present study (sextant biopsy plus puncture directed to the suspicious nodule).
The role of gadoxetic acid as a paramagnetic contrast medium in the characterization and detection of focal liver lesions: a review
Authors: Bormann Renata Lilian , Rocha Eduardo Lima da , Kierzenbaum Marcelo Longo , Pedrassa Bruno Cheregati , Torres Lucas Rios , D'Ippolito Giuseppe
Published: March 2015

Recent studies have demonstrated that the use of paramagnetic hepatobiliary contrast agents in the acquisition of magnetic resonance images remarkably improves the detection and differentiation of focal liver lesions, as compared with extracellular contrast agents. Paramagnetic hepatobiliary contrast agents initially show the perfusion of the lesions, as do extracellular agents, but delayed contrast-enhanced images can demonstrate contrast uptake by functional hepatocytes, providing further information for a better characterization of the lesions. Additionally, this intrinsic characteristic increases the accuracy in the detection of hepatocellular carcinomas and metastases, particularly the small-sized ones. Recently, a hepatobiliary contrast agent called gadolinium ethoxybenzyl dimeglumine, that is simply known as gadoxetic acid, was approved by the National Health Surveillance Agency for use in humans. The authors present a literature review and a practical approach of magnetic resonance imaging utilizing gadoxetic acid as contrast agent, based on patients' images acquired during their initial experiment.
Ambient radiation levels in positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging center
Authors: Santana Priscila do Carmo , Oliveira Paulo Marcio Campos de , Mamede Marcelo , Silveira Mariana de Castro , Aguiar Polyanna , Real Raphaela Vila , Silva Teógenes Augusto da
Published: March 2015

Objective: To evaluate the level of ambient radiation in a PET/CT center. Materials and Methods: Previously selected and calibrated TLD-100H thermoluminescent dosimeters were utilized to measure room radiation levels. During 32 days, the detectors were placed in several strategically selected points inside the PET/CT center and in adjacent buildings. After the exposure period the dosimeters were collected and processed to determine the radiation level. Results: In none of the points selected for measurements the values exceeded the radiation dose threshold for controlled area (5 mSv/year) or free area (0.5 mSv/year) as recommended by the Brazilian regulations. Conclusion: In the present study the authors demonstrated that the whole shielding system is appropriate and, consequently, the workers are exposed to doses below the threshold established by Brazilian standards, provided the radiation protection standards are followed.
Assessment of embryo/fetus during pregnancy by threedimensional ultrasonography using the HD live software: iconographic essay
Authors: Araujo Júnior Edward , Santana Eduardo Félix Martins , Nardozza Luciano Marcondes Machado , Moron Antonio Fernandes
Published: March 2015

Fetal development is studied since the advent of two-dimensional ultrasonography. However, a detailed assessment of structures and surfaces improved with three-dimensional ultrasonography. Currently, it is possible to identify embryonic components and fetal parts with greater detail, at all pregnancy trimesters, using the HD live software, where the images gain realistic features by means of appropriate control of lighting and shadowing effects. In the present study, the authors utilized this resource to follow-up, by means of images, the development of a normal pregnancy along all trimesters.
Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis: a case report
Authors: Candido Paula de Castro Menezes , Werner Andrea de Freitas , Pereira Izabela Machado Flores , Matos Breno Assunção , Pfeilsticker Rudolf Moreira , Silva Filho Raul
Published: March 2015

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis, a rare cause of bowel obstruction, was described as a complication associated with peritoneal dialysis which is much feared because of its severity. The authors report a case where radiological findings in association with clinical symptoms have allowed for a noninvasive diagnosis of sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis, emphasizing the high sensitivity and specificity of computed tomography to demonstrate the characteristic findings of such a condition.
Magnetic resonance imaging of the chest in the evaluation of cancer patients: state of the art
Authors: Guimaraes Marcos Duarte , Hochhegger Bruno , Santos Marcel Koenigkam , Santana Pablo Rydz Pinheiro , Sousa Júnior Arthur Soares , Souza Luciana Soares , Marchiori Edson
Published: March 2015

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has several advantages in the evaluation of cancer patients with thoracic lesions, including involvement of the chest wall, pleura, lungs, mediastinum, esophagus and heart. It is a quite useful tool in the diagnosis, staging, surgical planning, treatment response evaluation and follow-up of these patients. In the present review, the authors contextualize the relevance of MRI in the evaluation of thoracic lesions in cancer patients. Considering that MRI is a widely available method with high contrast and spatial resolution and without the risks associated with the use of ionizing radiation, its use combined with new techniques such as cine-MRI and functional methods such as perfusion- and diffusion-weighted imaging may be useful as an alternative tool with performance comparable or complementary to conventional radiological methods such as radiography, computed tomography and PET/CT imaging in the evaluation of patients with thoracic neoplasias.
Value of renal cortical thickness as a predictor of renal function impairment in chronic renal disease patients
Authors: Yamashita Samia Rafael , Atzingen Augusto Castelli von , Iared Wagner , Bezerra Alexandre Sérgio de Araújo , Ammirati Adriano Luiz , Canziani Maria Eugênia Fernandes , D'Ippolito Giuseppe
Published: March 2015

Objective: To determine the presence of linear relationship between renal cortical thickness, bipolar length, and parenchymal thickness in chronic kidney disease patients presenting with different estimated glomerular filtration rates (GFRs) and to assess the reproducibility of these measurements using ultrasonography. Materials and Methods: Ultrasonography was performed in 54 chronic renal failure patients. The scans were performed by two independent and blinded radiologists. The estimated GFR was calculated using the Cockcroft-Gault equation. Interobserver agreement was calculated and a linear correlation coefficient (r) was determined in order to establish the relationship between the different renal measurements and estimated GFR. Results: The correlation between GFR and measurements of renal cortical thickness, bipolar length, and parenchymal thickness was, respectively, moderate (r = 0.478; p < 0.001), poor (r = 0.380; p = 0.004), and poor (r = 0.277; p = 0.116). The interobserver agreement was considered excellent (0.754) for measurements of cortical thickness and bipolar length (0.833), and satisfactory for parenchymal thickness (0.523). Conclusion: The interobserver reproducibility for renal measurements obtained was good. A moderate correlation was observed between estimated GFR and cortical thickness, but bipolar length and parenchymal thickness were poorly correlated.
Computed tomography findings of paracoccidiodomycosis in musculoskeletal system
Authors: Lima Júnior Francisco Valtenor Araújo , Savarese Leonor Garbin , Monsignore Lucas Moretti , Martinez Roberto , Nogueira-Barbosa Marcello Henrique
Published: March 2015

Objective: To evaluate musculoskeletal involvement in paracoccidioidomycosis at computed tomography. Materials and Methods: Development of a retrospective study based on a review of radiologic and pathologic reports in the institution database. Patients with histopathologically confirmed musculoskeletal paracoccidioidomycosis and submitted to computed tomography were included in the present study. The imaging findings were consensually described by two radiologists. In order to avoid bias in the analysis, one patient with uncountable bone lesions was excluded from the study. Results: A total of seven patients were included in the present study. A total of 18 bone lesions were counted. The study group consisted of 7 patients. A total number of 18 bone lesions were counted. Osteoarticular lesions were the first manifestation of the disease in four patients (57.14%). Bone lesions were multiple in 42.85% of patients. Appendicular and axial skeleton were affected in 85.71% and 42.85% of cases, respectively. Bone involvement was characterized by well-demarcated osteolytic lesions. Marginal osteosclerosis was identified in 72.22% of the lesions, while lamellar periosteal reaction and soft tissue component were present in 5.55% of them. One patient showed multiple small lesions with bone sequestra. Conclusion: Paracoccidioidomycosis can be included in the differential diagnosis of either single or multiple osteolytic lesions in young patients even in the absence of a previous diagnosis of pulmonary or visceral paracoccidioidomycosis
Dimensões históricas das relações entre educação e Serviço Social: elementos para uma revisão crítica
Authors: Dentz Marta von , Silva Roberto Rafael Dias da
Published: March 2015

Este estudo apresenta um conjunto de referências históricas acerca da relação Educação e Serviço Social, objetivando resgatar interfaces de origem das duas áreas do conhecimento e perceber como foi se estabelecendo a articulação entre a Educação como política pública e sua vinculação ao Serviço Social. Tomamos como materialidade investigativa referenciais teóricos da Educação e do Serviço Social e indicamos que, na constituição histórica das relações entre ambos, ocorrem significativas mudanças de ênfase nas racionalidades políticas e nas formas de intervenção, muito embora o debate sobre as proteções sociais e o combate às desigualdades seja uma constante.