bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case of Abdominal Aortic Retroperitoneal and Mesenteric Amyloid Light Chain Amyloidoma
Authors: Yokota Kazuhiro , Kishida Dai , Kayano Hidekazu , Yazaki Masahide , Shimada Yuki , Akiyama Yuji , Mimura Toshihide
Published: September 2016

We report the case of a Japanese woman with amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidoma in the abdominal aortic retroperitoneum and mesentery. Irregular soft tissue mass lesions with calcification in the abdominal aortic retroperitoneum and mesentery were initially detected by computed tomography at another hospital. The lesions gradually compressed the duodenum, causing symptoms of bowel obstruction. The patient was clinically diagnosed with retroperitoneal fibrosis, and prednisolone was administered at a dose of 40 mg/day. However, the lesions did not change in size and her symptoms continued. She was transferred to our hospital and underwent mesenteric biopsy for histopathology using abdominal laparotomy. The histopathological and immunohistological findings of the mesenteric specimen demonstrated lambda light chain deposition. Accordingly, the patient was finally diagnosed with AL amyloidoma with no evidence of systemic amyloidosis. After laparotomy, her general condition worsened because of complications of pneumonia and deep vein thrombosis. She died suddenly from acute myocardial infarction. We have concluded that abdominal aortic retroperitoneal and mesenteric AL amyloidoma may have very poor prognoses in accordance with previous reports. In addition, the size and location of AL amyloidoma directly influence the prognosis. We suggest that early histopathology is important for improving prognosis.
Cytokine Profile in Chronic Periodontitis Patients with and without Obesity: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Akram Zohaib , Abduljabbar Tariq , Abu Hassan Mohamed Ibrahim , Javed Fawad , Vohra Fahim
Published: September 2016

To investigate the cytokine profile as biomarkers in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of chronic periodontitis (CP) patients with and without obesity, MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, and SCOPUS databases were combined with handsearching of articles published from 1977 up to May 2016 using relevant MeSH terms. Meta-analyses were conducted separately for each of the cytokines: resistin, adiponectin, TNF-α, leptin, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-1β. Forest plots were produced reporting standardized mean difference of outcomes and 95% confidence intervals. Eleven studies were included. Three studies showed comparable levels of leptin among obese and nonobese patients with CP. Four studies reported comparable levels of interleukin- (IL-) 6 and resistin whereas five studies reported comparable levels of adiponectin. Two studies reported similar levels of CRP in patients with periodontitis with and without obesity. One study showed higher levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in obese patients with CP. One study showed higher levels of IL-1βand IL-8 in obese patients with CP. The level of localized periodontal inflammation may have a greater influence on the GCF proinflammatory biomarker levels as compared to systemic obesity. Whether patients having chronic periodontitis with obesity have elevated proinflammatory GCF biomarkers levels compared to nonobese individuals remains debatable.
From Placenta to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: The Role of Adipokines
Authors: Sartori Chiara , Lazzeroni Pietro , Merli Silvia , Patianna Viviana Dora , Viaroli Francesca , Cirillo Francesca , Amarri Sergio , Street Maria Elisabeth
Published: September 2016

Adipokines are cytokines produced mainly by adipose tissue, besides many other tissues such as placenta, ovaries, peripheral-blood mononuclear cells, liver, muscle, kidney, heart, and bone marrow. Adipokines play a significant role in the metabolic syndrome and in cardiovascular diseases, have implications in regulating insulin sensitivity and inflammation, and have significant effects on growth and reproductive function. The objective of this review was to analyze the functions known today of adiponectin, leptin, resistin, and visfatin from placenta throughout childhood and adolescence. It is well known now that their serum concentrations during pregnancy and lactation have long-term effects beyond the fetus and newborn. With regard to puberty, adipokines are involved in the regulation of the relationship between nutritional status and normal physiology or disorders of puberty and altered gonadal function, as, for example, premature pubarche and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Cytokines are involved in the maturation of oocytes and in the regular progression of puberty and pregnancy.
Tuberculous Lymphadenitis Mimicking Nodal Metastasis in Follicular Variant Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Yu Marc Gregory , Atun Jenny Maureen
Published: September 2016

Tuberculous (TB) lymphadenitis can mimic cervical node metastasis from papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) since the distribution and appearance of affected lymph nodes are similar. We present the case of an asymptomatic 50-year-old Filipino who sought consult for a gradually enlarging anterior neck mass and a single palpable cervical lymph node. Preoperative workup suggested a thyroid malignancy with nodal metastasis. He underwent total thyroidectomy with node dissection where histopathology confirmed follicular variant- (FV-) PTC. Lymph node examination, however, revealed TB lymphadenitis, and the patient was given standard antimycobacterial therapy. This is the first documented case in Southeast Asia, a high TB burden region. This is also the first report involving FV-PTC, which has features between those of conventional PTC and follicular thyroid carcinoma. The case suggests that, in endemic areas, TB should be a differential in the etiology of cervical lymphadenopathy in PTC patients. In developed countries, this differential diagnosis is also valuable because of the increasing incidence of HIV and TB coinfection. Proper preoperative evaluation is important and needs to be highlighted in the formulation of local guidelines.
Barrett’s Oesophagus in an Achalasia Patient: Immunological Analysis and Comparison with a Group of Achalasia Patients
Authors: Torres-Landa Samuel , Furuzawa-Carballeda Janette , Coss-Adame Enrique , Valdovinos Miguel A. , Alejandro-Medrano Edgar , Ramos-Ávalos Bárbara , Martínez-Benítez Braulio , Torres-Villalobos Gonzalo
Published: September 2016

The aim of the study was to characterize the presence of diverse CD4 and CD8 T cell subsets and regulatory cells in peripheral blood and lower oesophageal sphincter (LES) from a young patient with BE/achalasia without treatment versus achalasia group. In order to characterize the circulating cells in this patient, a cytometric analysis was performed. LES tissue was evaluated by double-immunostaining procedure. Five healthy blood donors, 5 type achalasia patients, and 5 oesophagus tissue samples (gastrooesophageal junction) from transplant donors were included as control groups. A conspicuous systemic inflammation was determined in BE/achalasia patient and achalasia versus healthy volunteer group. Nonetheless, a predominance of Th22, Th2, IFN-α-producing T cells, Tregs, Bregs, and pDCregs was observed in BE/achalasia patient versus achalasia group. A low percentage of Th1 subset in BE/achalasia versus achalasia group was determined. A noticeable increase in tissue of Th22, Th17, Th2, Tregs, Bregs, and pDCregs was observed in BE/achalasia versus achalasia group. Th1 subset was lower in the BE/achalasia patient versus achalasia group. This study suggests that inflammation is a possible factor in the pathogenesis of BE/achalasia. Further research needs to be performed to understand the specific cause of the correlation between BE and achalasia.
Effect of Prophylactic Antifungal Protocols on the Prognosis of Liver Transplantation: A Propensity Score Matching and Multistate Model Approach
Authors: Chen Yi-Chan , Huang Ting-Shuo , Wang Yu-Chao , Cheng Chih-Hsien , Lee Chen-Fang , Wu Ting-Jun , Chou Hong-Shiue , Chan Kun-Ming , Lee Wei-Chen , Soong Ruey-Shyang
Published: September 2016

Background. Whether routine antifungal prophylaxis decreases posttransplantation fungal infections in patients receiving orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of antifungal prophylaxis for patients receiving OLT.Patients and Methods. This is a retrospective analysis of a database at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. We have been administering routine antibiotic and prophylactic antifungal regimens to recipients with high model for end-stage liver disease scores (>20) since 2009. After propensity score matching, 402 patients were enrolled. We conducted a multistate model to analyze the cumulative hazards, probability of fungal infections, and risk factors.Results. The cumulative hazards and transition probability of “transplantation to fungal infection” were lower in the prophylaxis group. The incidence rate of fungal infection after OLT decreased from 18.9% to 11.4% (p=0.052); overall mortality improved from 40.8% to 23.4% (p<0.001). In the “transplantation to fungal infection” transition, prophylaxis was significantly associated with reduced hazards for fungal infection (hazard ratio: 0.57, 95% confidence interval: 0.34–0.96,p=0.033). Massive ascites, cadaver transplantation, and older age were significantly associated with higher risks for mortality.Conclusion. Prophylactic antifungal regimens in high-risk recipients might decrease the incidence of posttransplant fungal infections.
Chemical Composition andα-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity of VietnameseCitrusPeels Essential Oils
Authors: Dang Nguyen Hai , Nhung Pham Huong , Mai Anh Bui Thi , Thu Thuy Dinh Thi , Minh Chau Van , Dat Nguyen Tien
Published: September 2016

Background. Inhibition ofα-glucosidase is an important factor to control postprandial hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes mellitus.Citrusessential oils (CEO) are among the most widely used essential oils, and some of them exhibited promising antidiabetic effect. However, theα-glucosidase inhibition of CEO has not been investigated so far. The present work aims to evaluate theα-glucosidase inhibition of essential oils from six VietnameseCitruspeels.Methods. The chemical composition of essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation from sixCitruspeels was analyzed by GC-MS. All essential oils were tested for their inhibitory activity onα-glucosidase usingp-nitrophenyl-α-D-glucopyranoside as substrate.Results. In Buddha’s hand and lime peels, the major components were limonene (59.0–61.31%) andγ-terpinene (13.98–23.84%) while limonene (90.95–95.74%) was most abundant in pomelo, orange, tangerine, and calamondin peels. Among the essential oils, the Buddha’s hand oil showed the most significantα-glucosidase inhibitory effect with the IC50value of 412.2 μg/mL. The combination of the Buddha’s hand essential oil and the antidiabetic drug acarbose increased the inhibitory effect.Conclusions. The results suggested the potential use of Buddha’s hand essential oil as an alternative in treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Evaluation of the Elastic Properties of Thirteen Silicone Interocclusal Recording Materials
Authors: Wieckiewicz Mieszko , Grychowska Natalia , Zietek Marek , Wieckiewicz Wlodzimierz
Published: September 2016

Background.Addition silicones are popular as dental impression materials and are used in bite registration procedures.Objective.This study aimed to compare the postsetting elasticities and other mechanical properties of thirteen addition silicone interocclusal recording materials.Materials and Methods.The following materials were investigated: Colorbite D, Futar D, Genie Bite, Jet Blue Bite fast, Memoreg 2, O-Bite, Occlufast Rock, Omni-Bite Plus, Regidur i, Registrado X-tra, Regofix transparent, StoneBite, and Variotime Bite. Thirty specimens of each material were tested. The elasticities and strengths of the materials were measured with a universal testing machine, and computer software was used to determine theE-moduli, ultimate tensile strengths, and ultimate elongations of the specimens.Results.The results were subjected to statistical analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test (p≤0.05). The statistics revealed that the meanE-modulus values varied significantly across the materials (p=0.000) and were highest for the StoneBite and Registrado X-tra and lowest for the Regofix transparent. The ultimate tensile strengths were highest for the Regofix transparent and Registrado X-tra (p=0.000) and lowest for the Jet Blue Bite fast and Memoreg 2 (p=0.000). The elongation percentages at the point of breaking varied significantly across the materials (p=0.000); the lowest value was observed for the StoneBite, whereas the Regofix transparent nearly doubled original length.Conclusions.The authors concluded that materials with the highE-moduli and great ultimate tensile strengths may be most useful clinically. Registrado X-tra and StoneBite best met these criteria.
The Prevalence of and Factors Associated with Alcohol-Related Problems in a Community Sample of African American Women
Authors: Klein Hugh , Sterk Claire E. , Elifson Kirk W.
Published: September 2016

Purpose. This study examines the prevalence of alcohol-related problems, the factors underlying these problems, and whether or not there is evidence of syndemic effects in a community population of southern, urban African American women.Methods. Questionnaire-based interviews were conducted with 817 women, all African American, from 80 targeted census block groups in Atlanta, Georgia.Results. Most of the alcohol users (67.8%) experienced at least one problem as a result of their alcohol (ab)use, with most women experiencing two or more such problems. Eight factors were found to be associated with experiencing more alcohol problems: being aged 30 or older, having had no recent health insurance, lower levels of educational attainment, self-identifying as lesbian or bisexual, experiencing greater amounts of childhood maltreatment, greater impulsivity, perceiving one’s local community or neighborhood to be unsafe, and having a larger number of criminally involved friends.Conclusions. Drinking-related problems were prevalent in this population. Numerous factors underlie the extent to which African American women experienced problems resulting from their alcohol use. There is strong evidence of syndemic-type effects influencing drinking problems in this population, and future efforts to reduce the negative impact of alcohol (ab)use ought to consider the adoption of programs using a syndemics’ theory approach.
Anatomy-Correlated Breast Imaging and Visual Grading Analysis Using Quantitative Transmission Ultrasound™
Authors: Klock John C. , Iuanow Elaine , Malik Bilal , Obuchowski Nancy A. , Wiskin James , Lenox Mark
Published: September 2016

Objectives. This study presents correlations between cross-sectional anatomy of human female breasts and Quantitative Transmission (QT) Ultrasound, does discriminate classifier analysis to validate the speed of sound correlations, and does a visual grading analysis comparing QT Ultrasound with mammography.Materials and Methods. Human cadaver breasts were imaged using QT Ultrasound, sectioned, and photographed. Biopsies confirmed microanatomy and areas were correlated with QT Ultrasound images. Measurements were taken in live subjects from QT Ultrasound images and values of speed of sound for each identified anatomical structure were plotted. Finally, a visual grading analysis was performed on images to determine whether radiologists’ confidence in identifying breast structures with mammography (XRM) is comparable to QT Ultrasound.Results. QT Ultrasound identified all major anatomical features of the breast, and speed of sound calculations showed specific values for different breast tissues. Using linear discriminant analysis overall accuracy is 91.4%. Using visual grading analysis readers scored the image quality on QT Ultrasound as better than on XRM in 69%–90% of breasts for specific tissues.Conclusions. QT Ultrasound provides accurate anatomic information and high tissue specificity using speed of sound information. Quantitative Transmission Ultrasound can distinguish different types of breast tissue with high resolution and accuracy.
Low Actuating Voltage Spring-Free RF MEMS SPDT Switch
Authors: Bansal Deepak , Bajpai Anuroop , Kumar Prem , Kaur Maninder , Rangra Kamljit
Published: September 2016

RF MEMS devices are known to be superior to their solid state counterparts in terms of power consumption and electromagnetic response. Major limitations of MEMS devices are their low switching speed, high actuation voltage, larger size, and reliability. In the present paper, a see-saw single pole double throw (SPDT) RF MEMS switch based on anchor-free mechanism is proposed which eliminates the above-mentioned disadvantages. The proposed switch has a switching time of 394 nsec with actuation voltage of 5 V. Size of the SPDT switch is reduced by utilizing a single series capacitive switch compared to conventional switches with capacitive and series combinations. Reliability of the switch is improved by adding floating metal and reducing stiction between the actuating bridge and transmission line. Insertion loss and isolation are better than −0.6 dB and −20 dB, respectively, for 1 GHz to 20 GHz applications.
Atypical Growth Pattern of an Intraparenchymal Meningioma
Authors: Zeng Zhen , Zhang Tijiang , Zhou Yihua , Chen Xiaoxi
Published: September 2016

Meningiomas are the most common primary nonneuroglial extra-axial neoplasms, which commonly present as spherical or oval masses with a dural attachment. Meningiomas without dural attachment are rare and, according to their locations, are classified into 5 varieties, including intraventricular, deep Sylvain fissure, pineal region, intraparenchymal, or subcortical meningiomas. To the best of our knowledge, intraparenchymal meningioma with cerebriform pattern has never been reported. In this paper, we report a 34-year-old Chinese male patient who presented with paroxysmal headaches and progressive loss of vision for 10 months and blindness for 2 weeks. A thorough physical examination revealed loss of bilateral direct and indirect light reflex. No other relevant medical history and neurologic deficits were noted. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans showed an irregular mass with a unique cerebriform pattern and extensive peritumoral edema in the parietal-occipital-temporal region of the right cerebral hemisphere. The initial diagnosis was lymphoma. Intraoperatively, the tumor was completely buried in a sulcus in the parietal-occipital-temporal region without connecting to the dura. The histological diagnosis was intracranial meningioma based on pathological examination. Therefore, when an unusual cerebriform growth pattern of a tumor is encountered, an intraparenchymal meningioma should be considered as a differential diagnosis.
Modified Limiting Equilibrium Method for Stability Analysis of Stratified Rock Slopes
Authors: Yong Rui , Li Chang-Dong , Ye Jun , Huang Man , Du Shigui
Published: September 2016

The stratified rock of Jurassic strata is widely distributed in Three Gorges Reservoir Region. The limit equilibrium method is generally utilized in the stability analysis of rock slope with single failure plane. However, the stratified rock slope cannot be accurately estimated by this method because of different bedding planes and their variable shear strength parameters. Based on the idealized model of rock slope with bedding planes, a modified limiting equilibrium method is presented to determine the potential sliding surface and the factor of safety for the stratified rock slope. In this method, the S-curve model is established to define the spatial variations of the shear strength parameterscand  φof bedding plane and the tensile strength of rock mass. This method was applied in the stability evaluation of typical stratified rock slope in Three Gorges Reservoir Region, China. The result shows that the factor of safety of the case study is 0.973, the critical sliding surface for the potential slip surface appears at bedding plane C, and the tension-controlled failure occurs at 10.5 m to the slope face.
The Use of Causal Language and Filled Pauses in Children with and without Autism
Authors: Hallin Anna Eva , Garcia Gabrielle D. , Reuterskiöld Christina
Published: September 2016

This study investigated the relationship between pragmatic ability and two aspects of structural language in conversational language samples from 24 school-age children with and without high-functioning autism (HFA): causal statements and speech disruptions. In contrast to a majority of previous studies, grammatical complexity and mean length of utterance were factored into the analyses, since these are potential confounding variables. The results showed that children with HFA used fewer spontaneous causal statements and fewer filled pauses in conversation compared to children with typical development (TD). There was also a significant and positive relationship between filled pauses and pragmatic ability after controlling for structural language ability. The results may help us understand the conversational patterns of children with HFA better.
Ingroup/Outgroup Attitudes and Group Evaluations: The Role of Competition in British Classroom Settings
Authors: Lam Virginia L. , Seaton Jodi-Ann
Published: September 2016

Children’s intergroup bias is one of the consequences of their readiness to categorise people into ingroups and outgroups, even when groups are assigned arbitrarily. The present study examined the influence of intergroup competition on children’s ingroup and outgroup attitudes developed within the minimal-group setting in British classrooms. One hundred and twelve children in two age groups (6-7- and 9-10-year-olds) were assessed on classification skills and self-esteem before being allocated to one of two colour “teams.” In the experimental condition, children were told that the teams would have a competition after two weeks and teachers made regular use of these teams to organise activities. In the control condition, where no competition ensued, teachers did not refer to “teams.” Then children completed trait attributions to their own-team (ingroup) and other-team (outgroup) members and group evaluations. It was found that children developed positive ingroup bias across conditions, but outgroup negative bias was shown only by 6-7-year-olds in the experimental condition, particularly if they lost the competition, where they evaluated their team more critically. Better classification skills were associated with less negativity towards the outgroup in the experimental condition. Findings are discussed in relation to relevant theoretical premises and particulars of the intergroup context.
Sniff-Like Patterned Input Results in Long-Term Plasticity at the Rat Olfactory Bulb Mitral and Tufted Cell to Granule Cell Synapse
Authors: Chatterjee Mahua , Perez de los Cobos Pallares Fernando , Loebel Alex , Lukas Michael , Egger Veronica
Published: September 2016

During odor sensing the activity of principal neurons of the mammalian olfactory bulb, the mitral and tufted cells (MTCs), occurs in repetitive bursts that are synchronized to respiration, reminiscent of hippocampal theta-gamma coupling. Axonless granule cells (GCs) mediate self- and lateral inhibitory interactions between the excitatory MTCs via reciprocal dendrodendritic synapses. We have explored long-term plasticity at this synapse by using a theta burst stimulation (TBS) protocol and variations thereof. GCs were excited via glomerular stimulation in acute brain slices. We find that TBS induces exclusively long-term depression in the majority of experiments, whereas single bursts (“single-sniff paradigm”) can elicit both long-term potentiation and depression. Statistical analysis predicts that the mechanism underlying this bidirectional plasticity involves the proportional addition or removal of presynaptic release sites. Gamma stimulation with the same number of APs as in TBS was less efficient in inducing plasticity. Both TBS- and “single-sniff paradigm”-induced plasticity depend on NMDA receptor activation. Since the onset of plasticity is very rapid and requires little extra activity, we propose that these forms of plasticity might play a role already during an ongoing search for odor sources. Our results imply that components of both short-term and long-term olfactory memory may be encoded at this synapse.
Ectopic Thyroid at the Base of the Tongue of a Young Patient
Authors: Castro Paulo Henrique de Souza , Volpato Luiz Evaristo Ricci , Tramujas Julia , Borges Alvaro Henrique
Published: September 2016

Lingual thyroid is defined as an ectopic thyroid gland tissue located in the midline of the tongue base and it is uncommonly observed in clinical practice and is rare in children. This paper describes the surgical treatment of ectopic thyroid at the base of the tongue in a child. The chief complaint of the 12-year-old, melanodermic female patient was the difficulty to swallow for 15 days. The intraoral physical examination barely showed a nodular lesion at tongue base. The CT scan showed a round, well defined hyperdense lesion of approximately 25.8 mm at its largest diameter, with infiltrative growth in the posterior region of the base of the tongue. The proposed treatment was complete resection of the lesion. The histopathological diagnosis was lingual thyroid. After the diagnosis was established, the patient was referred to an endocrinologist for exams and medical follow-up. Lingual thyroid is a rare condition and its diagnosis in children is even rarer. Its approach should be transdisciplinary and should take into consideration the hormonal aspects of the patient in addition to the clinical condition of the lesion. In the presented case, the removal of the alteration was performed via conservative surgical procedure followed by immediate referral of the patient to the endocrinologist for a follow-up.
Uncertain Unified Chaotic Systems Control with Input Nonlinearity via Sliding Mode Control
Authors: Shen Zhi-ping , Xiong Jian-dong , Wu Yi-lin
Published: September 2016

This paper studies the stabilization problem for a class of unified chaotic systems subject to uncertainties and input nonlinearity. Based on the sliding mode control theory, we present a new method for the sliding mode controller design and the control law algorithm for such systems. In order to achieve the goal of stabilization unified chaotic systems, the presented controller can make the movement starting from any point in the state space reach the sliding mode in limited time and asymptotically reach the origin along the switching surface. Compared with the existing literature, the controller designed in this paper has many advantages, such as small chattering, good stability, and less conservative. The analysis of the motion equation and the simulation results all demonstrate that the method is effective.
Clinical Outcomes of Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion versus Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion in Three-Level Degenerative Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Authors: Fan Guoxin , Wu Xinbo , Yu Shunzhi , Sun Qi , Guan Xiaofei , Zhang Hailong , Gu Xin , He Shisheng
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study was to directly compare the clinical outcomes of posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) and minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS-TLIF) in three-level lumbar spinal stenosis. This retrospective study involved a total of 60 patients with three-level degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis who underwent MIS-TLIF or PLIF from January 2010 to February 2012. Back and leg visual analog scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and Short Form-36 (SF-36) scale were used to assess the pain, disability, and health status before surgery and postoperatively. In addition, the operating time, estimated blood loss, and hospital stay were also recorded. There were no significant differences in back VAS, leg VAS, ODI, SF-36, fusion condition, and complications at 12-month follow-up between the two groups (P>0.05). However, significantly less blood loss and shorter hospital stay were observed in MIS-TLIF group (P<0.05). Moreover, patients undergoing MIS-TLIF had significantly lower back VAS than those in PLIF group at 6-month follow-up (P<0.05). Compared with PLIF, MIS-TLIF might be a prior option because of noninferior efficacy as well as merits of less blood loss and quicker recovery in treating three-level lumbar spinal stenosis.
Empyema Secondary toActinomyces meyeriTreated Successfully with Ceftriaxone Followed by Doxycycline
Authors: Paris Etienne , Piscopo Tonio , Cassar Karen
Published: September 2016

Actinomycosis is a relatively rare infection caused by Gram-positive bacteria. We present the case of a 54-year-old, previously healthy, male patient with a history of severe penicillin allergy who developed severe pneumonia and empyema caused byActinomyces meyeri. Presenting symptoms included productive cough, right upper quadrant pain, and chills and rigors. He required drainage of the empyema via tube and prolonged antibiotic treatment with intravenous ceftriaxone for 2 weeks followed by oral doxycycline for 6 months.
Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography for Contact Lens-Related Corneal Vascularization
Authors: Ang Marcus , Cai Yijun , Tan Anna C. S.
Published: September 2016

Purpose. To describe a novel technique of adapting a swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) to image corneal vascularization.Methods. In this pilot cross-sectional study, we obtained 3 × 3 mm scans, where 100,000 A-scans are acquired per second with optical axial resolution of 8 μm and lateral resolution of 20 μm. This was performed with manual “XYZ” focus without the anterior segment lens, until the focus of the corneoscleral surface was clearly seen and the vessels of interest were in focus on the corresponding red-free image. En face scans were evaluated based on image quality score and repeatability.Results. We analyzed scans from 10 eyes (10 patients) with corneal vascularization secondary to contact lens use in 4 quadrants, with substantial repeatability of scans in all quadrants (mean image quality score 2.7 ± 0.7;κ=0.75). There was no significant difference in image quality scores comparing quadrants (superior temporal: 2.9 ± 0.6, superior nasal: 2.8 ± 0.4, inferior temporal: 2.5 ± 0.9, and inferior nasal: 2.4 ± 1.0;P=0.276) and able to differentiate deep and superficial corneal vascularization.Conclusion. This early clinical study suggests that the swept-source OCTA used may be useful for examining corneal vascularization, which may have potential for clinical applications such as detecting early limbal stem cell damage.
Fractional Characteristics of Heavy Metals Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cd in Sewer Sediment from Areas in Central Beijing, China
Authors: Li Haiyan , Wang Mingxiu , Zhang Wenwen , Zhang Ziyang , Zhang Xiaoran
Published: September 2016

To identify the distribution of heavy metals in sewer sediments and assess their potential harmfulness to the environment and human health, the occurrence of Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cd in the sewer sediment of six functional areas and two streets in an inner-city suburb of Beijing, China, was investigated by using a sequential extraction procedure. Results show that the concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb vary between 50 and 175, between 80 and 180, between 0.75 and 2.5, and between 20 and 110 mg/kg, respectively, and Fe-Mn oxide fraction is significant for all metals in sampling areas. Pollution assessment shows that 1–2% of Cu at Chegongzhuang Street and 1–3% of Zn at Fuwai Street in the exchangeable fractions are of low risk. 10–25% of Cd at six functional areas indicates medium risk. 40–60% of Pb at Fuwai Street existing in the exchangeable fractions is of high to very high risk. The sum of these metals associated with exchangeable, carbonate bound, and Fe-Mn oxide fractions is quite high; however, these three fractions represent the proportion of heavy metals that can be remobilized by changes in environmental conditions.
Clinical Characteristics of Benign Pediatric Cranial Vault Tumors: Surgical Considerations Based on 100 Cases
Authors: Skadorwa Tymon , Ciszek Bogdan
Published: September 2016

Background/Aims: Tumors of the cranial vault occur at every age of childhood. Although they are mostly benign lesions, their symptomatology is variable and requires extended diagnostics. The choice of therapeutic strategy strongly depends on histopathological diagnosis, and therefore surgical excision is the elective treatment in such cases. Despite several published papers, the literature still lacks reliable clinical characteristics regarding this heterogeneous group of lesions in pediatric patients. Methods: We present a series of 100 children (55 male, 45 female) with scalp and cranial vault masses (average age: 3.6 years; range: 1 month to 17 years). Eighty-three (83%) patients underwent surgical excision. Demographic data, clinical presentation, diagnostic studies, choice of therapy, and the results of treatment were evaluated. Results: All removed tumors were benign pathologies: pilar cysts (30%), epidermoid/dermoid cysts (21%), vascular malformations (11%), inflammatory tumors (5%), and dysraphic remnants (2%). However, underlying bone destruction was observed in 61% of cases. Cranial extension occurred in 34%. Recurrence was noted in 1 case. Conclusions: Cranial vault tumors are characterized by constant growth and may penetrate the cranial cavity. Delayed surgery increases the risk of intracranial complications. Surgical problems include inappropriate planning, higher risk of intraoperative bleeding, and the need for subsequent cranioplasty.
The Impact of Parent-Infant Interaction on Epigenetic Plasticity Mediating Synaptic Adaptations in the Infant Brain
Authors: Matas Emmanuel , Bock Jörg , Braun Katharina
Published: September 2016

The development of the brain depends on an individual's nature (genes) and nurture (environments). This interaction between genetic predispositions and environmental events during brain development drives the maturation of functional brain circuits such as sensory, motor, emotional, and complex cognitive pathways. Adverse environmental conditions such as early life stress can interfere with the functional development of emotional and cognitive brain systems and thereby increase the risk of developing psychiatric disorders later in life. In order to develop more efficient and individualized protective and therapeutic interventions, it is essential to understand how environmental stressors during infancy affect cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in brain maturation. Animal models of early life stress have been able to reveal brain structural and metabolic changes in prefrontolimbic circuits, which are time, brain region, neuron, and sex specific. By focusing on animal models of separation stress during infancy, this review highlights epigenetic and cytoarchitectural modifications which are assumed to mediate lasting changes of brain function and behavior.
Factors of Resilience in Informal Caregivers of People with Dementia from Integrative International Data Analysis
Authors: Joling Karlijn J. , Windle Gill , Dröes Rose-Marie , Meiland Franka , van Hout Hein P.J. , MacNeil Vroomen Janet , van de Ven Peter M. , Moniz-Cook Esmé , Woods Bob
Published: September 2016

Background/Aims: Although caring for a person with dementia can be stressful, some caregivers appear to experience few negative consequences to their well-being. This study aimed to examine what proportion of caregivers demonstrates resilience under different challenging circumstances and to identify factors related to their resilience. Methods: Baseline data from 4 studies from the Netherlands and UK among informal caregivers of people with dementia were harmonized and integrated. Caregiver resilience was defined as high levels of psychological well-being despite different types of high caregiving demands. Multivariate regression analyses identified factors significantly related to caregiver resilience. Results: The integrated data set included 15 harmonized variables with data from 1,048 caregivers facing a high care demand. The prevalence of resilience varied between 35 and 43%, depending on the demand for high care. Being a male caregiver, caring for a female, living apart from your relative, and low caregiver burden were positively related to caregiver resilience. Conclusion: Caregivers have the capacity to demonstrate resilience despite significant challenges. This study demonstrates how harmonization of data from multiple existing studies can be used to increase power and explore the consistency of findings. This contributes to a better understanding of which factors are likely to facilitate caregiver resilience and offers insights for developing services.
Por um historicismo renovado: reflexo e reflexão na história literária
Authors: Bosi Alfredo
Published: September 2016

Este ensaio interpreta a historiografia literária brasileira desde a concepção nacionalista de Sílvio Romero, Araripe Jr. e José Veríssimo, passando pelo ecletismo da crítica modernista de Mário de Andrade e Tristão de Athayde, até as sínteses historiográficas de Otto Maria Carpeaux e Antonio Cândido. Nestes dois últimos, Alfredo Bosi enxerga as bases de uma nova historiografia na qual as expressões simbólicas se abrem para dimensões existenciais e culturais mais amplas
Cultura pela culatra
Authors: Wisnik José Miguel
Published: September 2016

O autor relaciona a discussão envolvendo a cultura popular e a cultura erudita, desenvolvida ao longo da obra de Mário de Andrade, com episódio de Macunaíma em que o amuleto tribal do herói transforma-se em objeto da coleção (mercado/museu) do negociante enriquecido. A relação permite sugerir um contraponto entre o contexto cultural em que Mário atuava e o contexto cultural contemporâneo
Édipo guarda-livros: leitura de Caetés
Authors: Lafetá João Luiz
Published: September 2016

Este estudo de Lafetá tem como enfoque o “romance familiar” como estrutura latente em Caetés. Da análise do retardamento, procedimento narrativo percebido como básico da obra, o crítico passa à observação das projeções dos desejos da personagem-narrador João Valério, aspecto estudado por Lamberto Puccinelli. Lafetá incorpora à sua leitura de Caetés os estudos de Freud sobre o romance familiar dos neuróticos e de Marthe Robert sobre o romance das origens e a origem dos romances.
Rente ao chão do texto
Authors: Mattalia Eliane Jacqueline
Published: September 2016

O artigo sinaliza a importância da fidedignidade do texto literário e a necessária atenção aos originais, tangenciando pontos teó­ ricos de gênese textual ou arqueologia do texto a propósito de Infância de Graciliano Ramos
Entre a tradição e o Novo Mundo [Um ensaio sobre a poesia de Cláudio Manuel da Costa]
Authors: Valle Ricardo Martins
Published: September 2016

A partir da leitura de Cláudio Manuel da Costa, este ensaio propõe indagações sobre a adequação do olhar do intérprete ao texto envelhecido. Avaliam-se os limites de algumas formas de apropria­ ção do passado, procurando maleabilizar as relações entre a reflexão moderna e a reconstituição dos critérios de época
Drummond: primeira poesia
Authors: Villaça Alcides
Published: September 2016

O “ Poema de sete faces”, do livro Alguma poesia, encena algumas das oscilações dramáticas que constituem fundamentos da poética de Carlos Drummond de Andrade. Neste ensaio, busca-se determinar a natureza, as formas e os sentidos dessas oscilações, tomando-se como ponto de partida a análise daquele poema, cujos traços de tensão se confirmam em outros textos do livro e compõem a base expressiva e ideológica da poesia inicial do poeta itabirano
Da Imagem às Imagens em Movimento : o narrativo na Invenção de Orfeu de Jorge de Lima
Authors: Andrade Fábio De Souza
Published: September 2016

A leitura da Invenção de Orfeu, súmula do percurso poético de Jorge de Lima, implica a consideração simultânea de uma série de questões: o engajamento modernista do poeta, o diálogo do poema com a tradição épica brasileira, a mescla de épico e lírico que marca o poema longo na literatura moderna. Este artigo propõe um caminho crítico na interpretação da Invenção de Orfeu que, ao lado de reconhecer a importância de sua ousadia imagética, aborde os aspectos narrativos da obra
"Cores vivas" ou uma canção do Alberto
Authors: Mesquita Fernando
Published: September 2016

Este é o quarto dos dez ensaios que compõem A luz do sol da canção, tese sobre o simbolismo solar na canção popular brasileira contemporânea. Ao mesmo tempo em que se desenvolve uma análise formal baseada em conceitos fornecidos pela semiótica canção de Luiz Tatit, busca-se evidenciar “passagens” entre a letra de “Cores vivas” e símbolos solares de civilizações tradicionais. Nesse contexto simbólico, a canção de Gilberto Gil é interpretada como uma celebração do “sol do meio-dia” pleno reinado da “luz branca” (Albedo)
O samba mais bonito do mundo
Authors: Nestrovski Arthur
Published: September 2016

“ Águas de março” (1972) serve de emblema da arte de Tom Jobim como compositor de canções. O cruzamento de elementos muito diversos da cultura — popular e erudita — dá-se ali com um equilíbrio que é tanto musical como poético e afetivo. Tal equilíbrio é em boa medida resultado do trabalho humano da composição, que acrescenta novos planos de sentido à letra. A vocação brasileira da canção, como modo singular de a cultura se entender e se dar a si mesma, chega aqui a um limite, tão mais notável por assumir uma forma assim generosa e modesta
"O imortal" e a verossimilhança
Authors: Hansen João Adolfo
Published: September 2016

Quando republicou “O imortal”, em 1882, Machado de Assis continuava interessado na paródia e no pastiche como gêneros literários. A partir de 1880, tinha começado a usar autores ficcionais que escrevem textos improváveis ou inconfiáveis. Com eles, transform a a matéria social de seu tempo, relativizando e destruindo a representação fundamentada no pressuposto da adequação entre os signos, os conceitos e as estruturas da realidade objetiva. O texto demonstra que a desnaturalização dos modos habituais de ler incide diretamente sobre a verossimilhança, tema de “O imortal”
Machado de Assis: o aprendizado do escritor e o esclarecimento de Mariana
Authors: Roncari Luiz
Published: September 2016

O estudo se divide em duas partes. Na primeira, através da leitura dos primeiros contos de Machado, ele procura ver como o autor trabalhou para constituir um ponto de vista deslocado da sua própria visão, de modo a poder dizer sem comprometer-se com o narrado. E, na segunda parte, ele faz uma leitura do conto “Capítulo dos chapéus”, tendo em vista mostrar como, decorridos quase cem anos, a Revolução Francesa (com tudo o que implicou para a vida social e espiritual) era ainda algo estranho ao universo da convivência no país
Leitura, escrita e crítica em "Aurora sem dia"
Authors: Loureiro Jayme
Published: September 2016

Este artigo procura analisar o conto “Aurora sem dia” de Machado de Assis tendo como pano de fundo a obra crítica do autor produzida ao longo da década de 1860, mais especificamente seu projeto crítico de formação do gosto do leitor, projeto elaborado e posto em prática com a série “Semana Literária”. Nesse sentido, o trajeto analítico focará as questões literárias que permeiam o texto, examinando mais detidamente que tipo de escritor e de leitor — e, em conseqüência, que tipo de escrita e de leitura — estão sendo satirizados e criticados, assim como qual o fundamento teórico ou crítico de tal sátira
Pobre-diabos num beco
Authors: Guimarães Hélio De Seixas
Published: September 2016

O ensaio trata da representação do artista e dos seus conflitos, concentrando-se na análise de “O machete” (1878), “Cantiga de esponsais” (1883) e “Habilidoso” (1885). Ao estudar essas narrativas, produzidas e publicadas em torno da célebre víravolta na ficção de Machado de Assis, busca-se compreender as concepções de arte e o modo como a relação entre artista e público aparece configurada num momento decisivo para a redefinição do projeto artístico de Machado de Assis
"Rosebud" e o Santo Graal: uma hipótese para a leitura dos contos de Machado de Assis
Authors: Rocha João Cezar De Castro
Published: September 2016

Este ensaio apresenta como hipótese de trabalho a valorização de uma leitura cruzada dos romances da chamada segunda fase com os contos, as crônicas e as críticas de Machado de Assis anteriores à publicação das Memórias póstumas de Brás Cubas
Amigos, amigos, literatura à parte: Vianna Moog e Erico Veríssimo
Authors: Bordini Maria da Glória
Published: September 2016

A conservação de fontes primárias para o estudo da literatura tem na correspondência uma de suas prioridades, nestes tempos da efemeridade de e-mails e declínio da carta em papel. A correspondência trocada entre Erico Verissimo e Vianna Moog sobre O resto é silêncio e os dois primeiros volumes de O tempo e o vento, bem como sobre Bandeirantes e pioneiros, oferece evidências históricas de primeira mão sobre a gênese das obras, assim como revela o espírito crítico que pode permear uma amizade duradoura
Sobre o processo de edição dos textos jesuítas nas cartas da América portuguesa no século XVI
Authors: Cerello Adriana Gabriel
Published: September 2016

A partir da obra Cartas dos primeiros jesuítas do Brasil (1954)) organizada por Serafim Leite, este artigo buscará estudar alguns aspectos do processo de produção livresca do século xvi, em particular as condições de redação e edi­ ção dos manuscritos dentro e fora do ambiente da Igreja Católica e a circulação na Metrópole e na Colônia. Partindo da observação de um momento histórico em que a maneira de ler, escrever e difundir os textos sofreu mudanças profundas, pretende-se reconstruir parte da história da cultura material do livro no século xvi
Luiz Gama por Luiz Gama: carta a Lúcio de Mendonça
Authors: Ferreira Ligia Fonseca
Published: September 2016

A carta de Luiz Gama a Lúcio de Mendonça, datada de 25 de julho de 1880, traz a história de vida do único ex-escravo brasileiro que se destacaria como homem de letras e líder dos movimentos abolicionista e republicano. Neste trabalho, pretendemos mostrar como esta carta, em geral considerada de forma isolada, se inscreve numa rede intertextual que modifica e multiplica seus níveis de leitura. Sua originalidade reside tanto no valor do depoimento como nos seus fenômenos enunciativos. Evocamos também a história inédita de um documento que só vem a lume nos anos 1930, cercada de uma polêmica que amplia hoje as possibilidades interpretativas. Por fim, analisar as fronteiras entre os gêneros epistolar e autobiográfico permite-nos questionar em que medida se trata realmente de uma “Autobiografia’, tal como esta carta vem sendo apresentada há mais de sessenta anos
Em busca do indeterminado: Guimarães Rosa e seus tradutores
Authors: Viotti Fernando Baião
Published: September 2016

A partir da leitura de cartas de Guimarães Rosa aos seus tradutores, o artigo destaca a indeterminação de sentidos como recurso estético sugerido pelo escritor, tentando mostrar os modos e motivos peculiares que o orientavam. Em seguida - recorrendo a uma visada dialética - tal procedimento é confrontado com a busca pela precisão e exatidão, impulso diametralmente oposto, e também preconizado por Rosa na fatura das traduções
Sobre estratégias identitárias
Authors: Galvão Walnice Nogueira
Published: September 2016

O texto propõe que se avalie o romance brasileiro contemporâneo nos contextos nacional e internacional. Para compreender a busca de identidade desse romance, é necessário levar em conta a eclosão da biografia. Para precisar o que significa neste momento a questão da identidade postulada por ele, é bom atentar para a fonte da preocupação com identidade, que não é a mesma dos séculos passados. Sugere-se que se recuse a etiqueta de “pós-colonial” quando aplicada à literatura de nações que são independentes há perto de dois séculos.
Albas e antilogias da poesia brasileira contemporânea: um ensaio sobre Orides Fontela e Sebastião Uchoa Leite
Authors: Carvalho Ricardo Souza de
Published: September 2016

A partir da análise de alguns aspectos da trajetória dos poetas Orides Fontela e Sebastião Uchoa Leite, à primeira vista alheios a adesões estritas a movimentos e tendências, pretendemos refletir sobre seus diálogos com a tradição poética e seus legados para a poesia brasileira contemporânea