bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diarrhea in neutropenic children with cancer: An Egyptian center experience, with emphasis on neutropenic enterocolitis
Authors: Sherief Laila M , Beshir Mohamed R , Kamal Naglaa Mohamed , Gohar Maha K , Gohar Ghada K
Published: August 2012

Background: Diarrhea is a frequent complication in children with cancer who received intensive chemotheraputic regimens. It may be caused by several factors, neutropenic enterocolitis (NE) being the most serious. Aim: To study diarrhea in neutropenic cancer patients in the pediatric age group, with its underlying etiologies and risk factors, especially the bacterial causes, with special concern on NE. Materials and Methods: This study was carried out at the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Units, Zagazig University Hospitals, Egypt, from January 2009 to September 2010. All children with malignant diseases who are ≤12 years of age were included. Patients who were neutropenic (<500/ mm 3 ) on admission or who became neutropenic during their stay in the hospital were monitored regularly (daily) for diarrhea. Neutropenic cancer patients with diarrhea were grouped into two groups: Group 1, with NE, and group 2, with neutropenic diarrhea rather than NE. On the first day of diarrhea, patients were subjected to complete blood count, blood cultures, stool microscopy and culture. Abdominal ultrasonography was carried out within 3 days of diarrhea. Results: A total of 200 children ≤12 years old, suffering from different malignancies, with a total of 180 neutropenic episodes were followed. Diarrhea was observed in 100 episodes (55.5%). NE constituted 16% of these diarrheal episodes. All patients with NE had significantly more severe neutropenia, and this was of longer duration than the other group. All patients with NE were febrile, with 100% positive blood culture. Stool analysis diagnosed giardiasis in 4.8% of the non-NE patients and in none of the NE patients, while stool culture was positive in 75% of the NE patients compared with 40.5% of the other group. Conclusions: Diarrhea is a common complication in neutropenic cancer children. Gram negative bacteria and Candida are the most incriminated pathogens. Duration and severity of neutropenia carry a great risk for the development of NE.
Cytokeratin 19 immunoreactivity in the diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Bose Debdas , Das Ram Narayan , Chatterjee Uttara , Banerjee Uma
Published: August 2012

Context: The diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is based on nuclear features. These features may be present in focal areas in benign thyroid diseases and follicular adenoma (FA), leading to diagnostic difficulty. Aims: To evaluate the expression and pattern of the distribution of cytokeratin 19 (CK19) in PTC and compare its reactivity with other neoplastic and non-neoplastic conditions to assess its potential as a useful marker for PTC. Materials and Methods: Twenty two cases of papillary carcinoma (usual type, follicular and diffuse sclerosing variant), eight follicular adenomas, eight multinodular goiters (MNG) were collected for a period of two years and six months. Sections were taken from thyroidectomy specimens fixed in 10% buffered neutral formalin. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical staining for CK19 were done using standard protocol. Results were semiquantitatively scored as follows: 1+ (<5% positively stained cells), 2+ (5-25%), 3+ (25-75%) and 4+ (>75%), and then analyzed. Statistical Analysis and Results: All 22 (100%) papillary carcinomas showed diffuse and strong (3+ and 4+) CK19 expression. Six out of eight (75%) FAs and four out of eight (50%) MNG were positive for CK19, but it was of weaker intensity (1+ and 2+) and focal in distribution. Conclusion: Focal CK19 staining may be found in benign disease, but diffuse and strong positivity is characteristic of PTC, which can be used in the diagnosis of PTC in lesions of equivocal morphological appearances.
Guidelines for locoregional therapy in primary breast cancer in developing countries: The results of an expert panel at the 8 th Annual Women′s Cancer Initiative - Tata Memorial Hospital (WCI-TMH) Conference
Authors: Munshi Anusheel , Gupta Sudeep , Anderson Benjamin , Yarnold John , Parmar Vani , Jalali Rakesh , Sharma Suresh , Desai Sangeeta , Thakur Meenakshi , Baijal Gunjan , Sarin Rajiv , Mittra Indraneel , Ghosh Jaya , Badwe Rajendra ,   other Locoregional Panel Members
Published: August 2012

Background: Limited guidelines exist for breast cancer management in developing countries. In this context, the Women′s Cancer Initiative - Tata Memorial Hospital (WCI-TMH) organised its 8 th Annual Conference to update guidelines in breast cancer. Materials and Methods: Appropriately formulated guideline questions on each topic and subtopic in the surgical, radiation and systemic management of primary breast cancer were developed by the scientific committee and shared with the guest faculty of the Conference. Majority of the questions had multiple choice answers. The opinion of the audience, comprising academic and community oncologists, was electronically cumulated, followed by focussed presentations by eminent national and international experts on each topic. The guidelines were finally developed through an expert panel that voted on each guideline question after all talks had been delivered and audience opinion elicited. Separate panels were constituted for locoregional and systemic therapy in primary breast cancer. Results: Based on the voting results of the expert panel, guidelines for locoregional therapy of breast cancer have been formulated. Voting patterns for each question are reported. Conclusions: The updated guidelines on locoregional management of primary breast cancer in the context of developing countries are presented in this article. These recommendations have been designed to allow centers in the developing world to improve the quality of care for breast cancer patients.
Expression and Epigenetic Change of the AR and FSHR Genes in the Granulosa Cells of Endometriosis Patients
Authors: Hayashi Mika , Yamashita Yoshiki , Hayashi Atsushi , Yoshida Yoko , Kawabe Sachiko , Hayashi Masami , Terai Yoshito , Kamegai Hideki , Ohmichi Masahide
Published: August 2012

Background

Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases associated with infertility. Endometriosis may affect the androgen receptor (AR) mRNA expression in human granulosa cells and the methylation of the promoter region of AR. We investigated 28 patients with endometriosis and 47 subjects without endometriosis undertaking IVF treatment.

Methods

Granulosa cells were obtained from 28 patients with endometriosis and 47 subjects without endometriosis as a control. Expressions of AR and FSHR mRNA were then evaluated by OneStep real-time PCR analysis, and the level of methylation of the promoter region was qualified by methylation-specified PCR (MSP).

Results

The expression of AR mRNA in the endometriosis group was statistically lower than that in the control group. As well, FSHR mRNA expression in the control group showed a positive correlation with AR mRNA expression; however, there was no such correlation in endometriosis patients. In the control group, AR mRNA expression was statistically higher in pregnant subjects compared with non-pregnant subjects; however, in the endometriosis group, no significant difference was identified. The promoter of AR was heavily methylated in all endometriosis cases; however, only 5 (45.4%) were methylated in the control group.

Conclusion

Lower AR mRNA expression and methylation of the AR promoter region might affect the expression of AR and FSHR the presence of endometriosis, thus leading to a disturbance in the regulation of AR and FSHR.
Lidar measurement of planetary boundary layer height and comparison with microwave profiling radiometer observation
Authors: Wang Z. , Cao X. , Zhang L. , Notholt J. , Zhou B. , Liu R. , Zhang B.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. The atmospheric boundary layer height was derived at two locations in the city of Lanzhou (China) and its suburb rural area Yuzhong. The aerosol backscatter lidar measurements were analysed using a wavelet technology and the parcel method was applied to profiling microwave radiometer observations. For a few occasions the average boundary layer height and entrainment zone thickness was derived in convective situations at Yuzhong. Results from selected observation days show that both datasets agree in strong convective situations. However, for weak convective situations the lidar measurements reveal boundary layer heights that are higher compared to the microwave observations, because a decrease of the thermal boundary layer height does not directly lead to a change of aerosols in that altitude layer. Finally, the entrainment zone thicknesses are compared with theoretical predictions, and the results show that the measurements are compatible with theoretical models.
On the differences between two semi-empirical sea-level models for the last two millennia
Authors: Vermeer M. , Rahmstorf S. , Kemp A. , Horton B.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. We compare hindcasts of global mean sea level over the past millennium obtained using two semi-empirical models linking temperature and sea-level rise. The models differ in that one of them includes a term for a very long-term sea-level rise component unfolding over many millennia. On short (century) time scales, both models give very similar results. Proxy sea-level reconstructions from the northern (North Carolina) and southern (New Zealand and Tasmania) hemispheres are used to test the ability of both models to reproduce the longer-term sea-level evolution. In both comparisons the model including the second term produces a markedly better fit from 1000 AD to the present. When both models are used for generating sea-level projections, they behave similarly out to 2100 AD. Further out, to 2300–2500 AD, the projections differ significantly, in no small part due to different values for the sea-level response time scale τ obtained. We conclude that careful model validation on long time scales is important before attempting multi-century projections.
Radiative effects of ozone on the climate of a Snowball Earth
Authors: Yang J. , Hu Y. , Peltier W. R.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Some geochemical and geological evidence suggests that the concentration of atmospheric oxygen was only 1–10% of the present level in the time interval from 750 to 580 million years ago when several nearly global glaciations or Snowball Earth events occurred. This low concentration of oxygen would have been accompanied by lower ozone concentration than present. Since ozone is a greenhouse gas, this change in ozone concentration would alter surface temperature, and thereby could have an important influence on the climate of the Snowball Earth. Previous works for either initiation or deglaciation of the proposed Snowball Earth have not taken the radiative effects of ozone changes into account. We address this issue herein by performing a series of simulations using an atmospheric general circulation model with various ozone concentrations. Our simulation results demonstrate that as ozone concentration is uniformly reduced from 100% to 50%, surface temperature decreases by approximately 0.8 K at the equator, with the largest decreases located in the middle latitudes reaching as high as 2.5 K, primarily due to a strengthened snow-albedo feedback. When ozone concentration is reduced and its vertical and horizontal distribution is simultaneously modulated, surface temperature decreases by 0.4–1.0 K at the equator and by 4–7 K in polar regions. These results suggest that ozone has significant effects on the climate during the Neoproterozoic glaciations.
Relationships between magnetic parameters, chemical composition and clay minerals of topsoils near Coimbra, central Portugal
Authors: Lourenço A. M. , Rocha F. , Gomes C. R.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Magnetic measurements, mineralogical and geochemical studies were carried out on surface soil samples in order to find possible relationships and to obtain environmental implications. The samples were taken over a square grid (500 × 500 m) near the city of Coimbra, in central Portugal. Mass specific magnetic susceptibility ranges between 12.50 and 710.11 × 10−8 m3 kg−1 and isothermal magnetic remanence at 1 tesla values range between 253 and 18 174 × 10−3 Am−1. Chemical analysis by atomic absorption spectrometry shows that the concentration of various toxic elements was higher than the mean background values for world soils. Higher values of susceptibility and toxic elements content were reported near roads and rivers. Urban pollution and road traffic emission seem to be the main influence for these values. A semi-quantitative X-ray diffraction study has been carried out on a representative set of subsamples, using peak areas. Illite (average 52%), kaolinite (average 55%), chlorite (average 6%) and irregular illite-smectite mixed-layers (average 9%) are the major clay minerals groups identified. Mineral composition of total fraction confirms the presence of magnetite/maghemite. The clay minerals results point to a contrast in the behavior of the main clay minerals: illite, chlorite, and kaolinite (also, smectite in some samples), which are generally in agreement with the magnetic and geochemical data. The results showed that magnetic measurements are a sensitive, fast, inexpensive and robust method, which can be advantageously applied for studying soils affected by urban and road pollution.
Measurement frequency and sampling spatial domains required to characterize turbidity and salinity events in the Guadalquivir estuary (Spain)
Authors: Contreras E. , Polo M. J.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Estuaries are complex systems in which long water quality data series are not always available at the proper scale. Data proceeding from several water quality networks, with different measuring frequencies (monthly, weekly and 15 min) and different numbers of sampling points, were compared throughout the main channel of the Guadalquivir estuary. Higher frequency of turbidity sampling in the upper estuary is required. In the lower estuary, sampling points help to find out the ETM, and higher frequency sampling of EC is required because of the effect of the tidal and river components. This could be a feedback for the implementation of monitoring networks in estuaries.
Orthodontic Tooth Movement with Clear Aligners
Authors: Drake Carl T. , McGorray Susan P. , Dolce Calogero , Nair Madhu , Wheeler Timothy T.
Published: August 2012

Clear aligners provide a convenient model to measure orthodontic tooth movement (OTM). We examined the role of in vivo aligner material fatigue and subject-specific factors in tooth movement. Fifteen subjects seeking orthodontic treatment at the University of Florida were enrolled. Results were compared with data previously collected from 37 subjects enrolled in a similar protocol. Subjects were followed prospectively for eight weeks. An upper central incisor was programmed to move 0.5 mm. every two weeks using clear aligners. A duplicate aligner was provided for the second week of each cycle. Weekly polyvinyl siloxane (PVS) impressions were taken, and digital models were fabricated to measure OTM. Initial and final cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were obtained to characterize OTM. Results were compared to data from a similar protocol, where subjects received a new aligner biweekly. No significant difference was found in the amount of OTM between the two groups, with mean total OTM of 1.11 mm. (standard deviation (SD) 0.30) and 1.07 mm. (SD 0.33) for the weekly aligner and biweekly control groups, respectively (P=0.72). Over eight weeks, in two-week intervals, material fatigue does not play a significant role in the rate or amount of tooth movement.
A Cyclosymmetric Beam Model and a Spring-Supported Annular Plate Model for Automotive Disc Brake Vibration
Authors: Boennen Dennis , Walsh Stephen James
Published: August 2012

This paper discusses two simplified analytical models for automotive disc brake vibration which can be used to complement more complex finite element methods. The first model approximates the brake disc as a simple beam structure with cyclosymmetric boundary conditions. Since the beam model is a one-dimensional approach, modelling of the inner boundary condition of the brake disc, at the interface of the brake rotor and the central hat, is not possible. The second model, which is established based upon Kirchhoff’s thin plate theory, is presented in this paper in order to incorporate the vibrational deformation at the hat-disc interface. The mode shapes, natural frequencies, and forced response of a static disc are calculated using different inner boundary conditions. Among others, the spring-supported boundary condition is proposed and applied in this paper to make appropriate predictions. The predicted results are compared with measurements of the vibration characteristics of a solid brake disc mounted upon a static test rig. These comparisons demonstrate that the most appropriate model for the inner boundary condition of the measured brake disc is the proposed spring-supported inner boundary condition.
Effectiveness of Glycyrrhizinic Acid (Glizigen) and an Immunostimulant (Viusid) to Treat Anogenital Warts
Authors: Domínguez Gómez José , Simón Ramón Daniel , Abreu Daniel Alfredo , Zelenkova Hana
Published: August 2012

Genital warts are benign proliferations of skin and mucosa caused by the human papillomavirus infection (hereinafter referred to as HPV). It is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases in the world, whose incidence rate has increased in the last three decades. Current treatment involves the physical destruction of the infected cells. The fact that there are many different types of treatment goes to show that none of them are uniformly effective or directly antiviral. Objective. Demonstrate the efficacy of Glizigen in the III-phase clinical trial combined with a food supplement (VIUSID) formulated to boost the immune system when treating external anogenital warts. Design. 100 patients clinically diagnosed with anogenital lesions were included in the trial and assigned to two groups of 50 individuals. Those from one group where treated with Glizigen and Viusid and those from the other group with 25% podophyllin in alcohol, the results from each were then compared. Results. The combined Glizigen-Viusid treatment was seen to have an 87.5% efficacy rate, which was slightly more than that of the treatment with podophyllin, and there were hardly any adverse reactions reported during the treatment. Conclusions. the combined Glizigen-Viusid treatment was effective in treating genital warts.
Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies Affecting Humans
Authors: G. B. Dudhatra , Kumar Avinash , C. M. Modi , M. M. Awale , H. B. Patel , S. K. Mody
Published: August 2012

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) or prion diseases are group of rare and rapidly progressive fatal neurologic diseases. The agents responsible for human prion diseases are abnormal proteins or prion that can trigger chain reactions causing normal proteins in the brain to change to the abnormal protein. These abnormal proteins are resistant to enzymatic breakdown, and they accumulate in the brain, leading to damage. TSEs have long incubation periods followed by chronic neurological disease and fatal outcomes, have similar pathology limited to the CNS including convulsions, dementia, ataxia, and behavioral or personality changes, and are experimentally transmissible to some other species.
Protocolo de treinamento muscular inspiratório pré-operatório em cirurgia cardíaca eletiva: estudo piloto
Authors: Borja Raíssa De Oliveira , Campos Tania Fernandes , Oliveira Karilin Tereza Santiago de , Freitas Diana Amélia de , Mendonça Karla Morganna Pereira Pinto de
Published: August 2012

Introdução: Indivíduos com fraqueza muscular respiratória no pré-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca possuem maior risco de desenvolver complicações pulmonares pós-operatórias. Objetivo: Avaliar um protocolo pré-operatório de treinamento muscular inspiratório para indivíduos que iriam submeter-se à revascularização do miocárdio. Métodos: Doze pacientes foram divididos em grupo controle e de treinamento muscular inspiratório. Utilizaram-se o Threshold®IMT, com carga de 30% da PImáx, reajustada a cada três dias, totalizando 15 dias de treinamento, e o teste de normalidade Shapiro-Wilk. As comparações de médias foram realizadas por meio do teste “t” de Student pareado e não pareado. Resultados: Constatou-se um ganho de 37cmH2O e de 33cmH2O para as pressões inspiratória e expiratória máximas, respectivamente, ao comparar os valores antes e após o treinamento, sendo significativo a partir do terceiro dia de treino. Conclusão: O protocolo testado neste estudo mostrou-se eficaz para aumentar a força muscular pré-operatória a partir do terceiro dia de treinamento domiciliar.
Capacidade funcional e dor em idosos nos períodos pré e pós-operatório de cirurgia cardíaca
Authors: Gnoatto Kelin , Mattei Josiéle Casanova , Piccoli Alana , Polese Janaíne Cunha , Azevedo da Silva Silvia Lanziotti , Schuster Rodrigo Costa , Leguisamo Camila Pereira
Published: August 2012

Introdução: A cirurgia cardíaca pode gerar dor e perdas funcionais em idosos. Objetivo: Avaliar capacidade funcional e dor de idosos em períodos pré e pós-operatório (PO). Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo longitudinal, com amostra de 46 idosos submetidos à cirurgia cardíaca. Utilizaram-se Medida de Independência Funcional (MIF), Escalas Visual Analógica e Numérica da Dor e Diagrama Corporal, avaliados em três momentos. Usaram-se também o teste de Wilcoxon, para comparação; e o de Spearman, para avaliar as associações entre as variáveis estudadas. Resultados: A média de idade foi 69,3 ± 1 anos, prevalecendo o sexo masculino. Observou-se independência em 97,8% da amostra no pré-operatório; 65,2%, dependência de até 50%, no segundo dia PO; e 60,9%, dependência de até 75%, no quinto dia PO. A associação entre tempo de internação total, pós-operatório e MIF mostrou-se significativa no segundo e quinto PO. Conclusão: Idosos submetidos à cirurgia cardíaca apresentam declínio da funcionalidade e diminuição da dor com o passar dos dias.
Características antropométricas e bioquímicas de atletas de futebol
Authors: Ferreira Joel Saraiva , Melnikov Petr
Published: August 2012

Objetivo: Coletar características antropométricas e bioquímicas de jogadores de futebol de Campo Grande (MS) para avaliar seu estado de saúde. Métodos: Participaram deste estudo 50 jogadores de futebol do sexo masculino, com média de idade de 28,1 anos. Foram medidos: peso corporal, estatura, percentual de gordura, glicose, triglicérides, colesterol total e suas frações LDL e HDL. O teste de correlação de Spearman foi aplicado para o cálculo estatístico, com valor de p
Análise comparativa de duas técnicas de contagem de número de alvéolos e de medição do espessamento septal em coelhos prematuros com displasia broncopulmonar
Authors: Dos Santos Rodrigo Leonel , De Aquino Bruno Garcia , Silva Mariana Mendes , Thereza Fernanda Polastri , Rebello Celso Moura , Mascaretti Renata Suman , Manzano Roberta Munhoz
Published: August 2012

Introdução: A “nova” displasia broncopulmonar se caracteriza por diminuição da septação alveolar e do desenvolvimento vascular pulmonar. Objetivo: Comparar a contagem manual e a automática do número de alvéolos e medir o espessamento septal por um programa de análise de imagem. Métodos: Coelhos prematuros nascidos no 28º e 29º dia de gestação foram submetidos a ar ambiente ou oxigênio, durante 11 dias, após serem randomizados em quatro grupos, a saber: AR28, O228 (FiO2 ≥ 95%), AR29, O229 (FiO2 = 80%). Os pulmões foram retirados e corados para a contagem de número de alvéolos e medição do espessamento septal. Utilizou-se o programa Image-Pro Plus 4.5 para análise de imagem. Resultados: Houve diferença entre as formas de contagem do número de alvéolos e a análise de espessamento septal, realizadas manual e automaticamente (p
Efeitos de um programa de exercícios multivariado na composição corporal de idosas saudáveis
Authors: Amaral Paulo Costa , Rica Roberta Luksevicius , Silva Flavio André , Serra Andrey Jorge , Rodriguez Daniel , Pontes Junior Francisco Luciano , Bocalini Danilo Sales
Published: August 2012

Introdução: Pouco se sabe sobre a influência de um programa multivariado na composição corporal de obesos. Objetivo: Avaliar os efeitos de um programa multivariado na composição corporal em idosas. Métodos: Dezoito mulheres idosas independentes (idades 70 ± 5 anos) foram submetidas por quatro meses a um programa de exercício multivariado (3x semana/60 min) com intensidade controlada pela FCmáx (70% a 80%). Os seguintes parâmetros foram avaliados: peso corpóreo, IMC, percentual de gordura, peso gordo e magra. Resultados: Não foram encontradas diferenças (p>0,05) no peso corpóreo (742 vs. 743; kg), IMC (315 vs. 315; kg/m2) e no peso gordo (298 vs. 239; kg). Contudo, verificou-se diminuição dos valores do percentual de gordura (385 vs. 325%; p>0,03) e aumento do peso da massa magra (455 vs. 515 kg; p
Análise do ângulo de rotação da coxa em indivíduos com síndrome da dor patelofemoral durante a subida de degraus
Authors: Kuriki Heloyse Uliam , Azevedo Fábio Mícolis de , Negrão Filho Rúben De Faria , Alves Neri
Published: August 2012

Introdução: A rotação no fêmur pode levar ao aumento da dor em indivíduos com síndrome dolorosa patelofemoral (SDFP). Entretanto, poucos estudos são encontrados com o objetivo de mensurar essa rotação. Objetivo: Comparar o ângulo de rotação do fêmur de indivíduos com e sem SDFP durante a subida de degraus. Métodos. Foi analisada a rotação do fêmur em 11 voluntárias com SDFP; e 22, sem SDFP, utilizando o Ariel Performance Analysis System para aquisição e digitalização dos pontos, um algoritmo para o cálculo da rotação e o teste “t” de Student, com significância de 5%, para comparação dos dados. Resultados: Quanto à rotação externa, o grupo SDFP apresentou maior rotação, 8,86°(±7,6°), em relação ao controle, 5,72°(±5,0°), (p=0,015). Conclusão: Verificou-se que indivíduos com SDFP apresentam maior ângulo de rotação externa de fêmur, o que pode ser o fator desencadeador da dor, já que uma maior rotação leva a um aumento da pressão patelar.
Uso da ventilação não invasiva em hospital de alta complexidade: fatores associados ao sucesso ou à falência
Authors: Ferreira Lívia Maria Mendonça , Lima Júnior Francisco Assis Vieira , Da Silva Bruna Maiara Helena , Nogueira Ivan Daniel Bezerra , Nogueira Patrícia Angélica de Miranda Silva
Published: August 2012

Introdução: A ventilação não invasiva (VNI) reduz a necessidade da intubação em pacientes com insuficiência respiratória aguda. No entanto, é necessário o reconhecimento dos fatores que predizem o sucesso ou o fracasso da VNI. Objetivo: Avaliar os fatores determinantes de sucesso e/ou falência da VNI em unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI). Métodos: Foram avaliados 27 pacientes submetidos à VNI, em um período de quatro meses. Registraram-se dados clínicos, parâmetros fisiológicos, características da utilização da VNI e permanência hospitalar. Resultados: Selecionaram-se 18 pacientes, divididos em dois grupos, sucesso (G1) e falência (G2) à VNI. Dos participantes que fizeram uso da VNI, 61,2% evoluíram com sucesso. Houve diferença significativa entre os grupos quanto à frequência cardíaca (p=0,03), pressão arterial (p=0,03) e Escala de Coma de Glasgow (p=0,04). Conclusão: Variáveis, tais como frequência cardíaca, pressão arterial sistêmica e escala de coma de Glasgow, podem determinar o sucesso ou falência à utilização da VNI.
Atividade eletromiográfica, desempenho muscular e proprioceptivo em jogadoras de voleibol – estudo caso-controle
Authors: Santos Ricardo Cavalcante Oliveira , Galvanin Thalissa , Cabral Cristina Maria Nunes
Published: August 2012

Introdução: Considerando a prática difundida do voleibol, poucos estudos avaliam a atividade eletromiográfica e proprioceptiva de jogadores desse esporte. Objetivo: Comparar a atividade eletromiográfica dos músculos deltoide, porção clavicular e espinal, e o desempenho muscular e proprioceptivo em jogadoras de voleibol e mulheres não atletas. Métodos: Foram incluídas 40 mulheres, sendo 20 atletas de voleibol, no Grupo Experimental; e 20 não atletas, no grupo Controle. As seguintes variáveis foram coletadas: sensação de posição articular, detecção de movimento, torque concêntrico dos músculos rotadores mediais e laterais na velocidade de 60º/s e 180º/s e atividade eletromiográfica dos músculos durante o movimento de ataque. Resultados: O Grupo Controle apresentou maior pico de torque dos rotadores laterais (p=0,026) a 180°/s e maior ativação muscular do deltoide porção clavicular (p=0,028) e espinal (p=0,025). Conclusão: Assim, neste estudo, o Grupo Controle apresentou maiores diferenças musculares, considerando torque e ativação, do que o Experimental.
A Comparison of Two Classes of Methods for Estimating False Discovery Rates in Microarray Studies
Authors: Hansen Emily , Kerr Kathleen F.
Published: August 2012

The goal of many microarray studies is to identify genes that are differentially expressed between two classes or populations. Many data analysts choose to estimate the false discovery rate (FDR) associated with the list of genes declared differentially expressed. Estimating an FDR largely reduces to estimatingπ1, the proportion of differentially expressed genes among all analyzed genes. Estimatingπ1is usually done throughP-values, but computingP-values can be viewed as a nuisance and potentially problematic step. We evaluated methods for estimatingπ1directly from test statistics, circumventing the need to computeP-values. We adapted existing methodology for estimatingπ1fromt- andz-statistics so thatπ1could be estimated from other statistics. We compared the quality of these estimates to estimates generated by two established methods for estimatingπ1fromP-values. Overall, methods varied widely in bias and variability. The least biased and least variable estimates ofπ1, the proportion of differentially expressed genes, were produced by applying the “convest” mixture model method toP-values computed from a pooled permutation null distribution. Estimates computed directly from test statistics rather thanP-values did not reliably perform well.
A MULTIDIMENSIONALIDADE DA DOCÊNCIA NA EDUCAÇÃO SUPERIOR
Authors: Passos Alencastro Veiga Ilma , Da Silva Edileuza Fernandes
Published: August 2012

Este artigo analisa a organização, desenvolvimento e avaliação de aulas de nove disciplinas de cursos da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), procurando identificar inovações nos processos de ensinar, aprender, pesquisar e avaliar e que sinalizam rupturas quanto à forma de lidar com o conhecimento na universidade. As análises apresentam a maneira como cada professor foi construindo, na sua trajetória docente, uma didática específica a partir do campo científico do curso e das experiências vivenciadas no percurso profissional. A metodologia utilizada privilegiou a abordagem qualitativa, com a utilização de análise documental, observação de aulas e entrevistas narrativas. Nas aulas, professores e estudantes ultrapassam a concepção de que o conhecimento, para ser científico, precisaromper com o senso comum. Os docentes partem do senso comum, dos conhecimentos prévios dos estudantes e do contexto em que se realiza o objeto de estudo e estabelecemrelações com outras formas e tipos de conhecimento. As inovações percebidas pautam-se nos princípios da: afetividade; autonomia; participação; contextualização; dialogicidade; dinamicidade; diversidade; ética; igualdade; integralidade; ludicidade; reflexividade/ criatividade e transitoriedade. Tendo como relações fundantes: professor-aluno; objetivo-avaliação; conteúdo-método; conhecimento local-total; ensino-aprendizagem; ensino-pesquisa; teoria-prática; movimento-afetividade; tempo-espaço.
The Effect of Membrane Thickness on a Microvascular Gas Exchange Unit
Authors: Nguyen Du T. , Leho Y T. , Esser‐Kahn Aaron P.
Published: August 2012

For reducing anthropogenic CO2 emissions, carbon capture and sequestration technologies benefit from the creation of new and efficient gas exchange systems. Vascularized systems provide a means of exchanging CO2 by providing high specific surface areas and patterned, intimate contact between capture fluids and gases. The well‐defined geometrical arrangement of fluid and gas channels, separated by semipermeable membranes, also provides a new platform for augmenting the function of liquid chemical solutions to carbon capture. In particular, the separation distance of the channels, or polymer membrane thickness, is closely related to the absorption rate as gases must permeate through the membrane before reacting with a fluid. Here, a study of the relationship between the membrane thickness in 3D microvascular contactors and absorption rates via a selective etching process is reported. By decreasing the membrane thickness, the mass transport rate of CO2 in the vascular contactor is increased by up to 160%.
Fabrication of Transistors on Flexible Substrates: from Mass‐Printing to High‐Resolution Alternative Lithography Strategies
Authors: Moonen Pieter F. , Yakimets Iryna , Huskens Jurriaan
Published: August 2012

In this report, the development of conventional, mass‐printing strategies into high‐resolution, alternative patterning techniques is reviewed with the focus on large‐area patterning of flexible thin‐film transistors (TFTs) for display applications. In the first part, conventional and digital printing techniques are introduced and categorized as far as their development is relevant for this application area. The limitations of conventional printing guides the reader to the second part of the progress report: alternative‐lithographic patterning on low‐cost flexible foils for the fabrication of flexible TFTs. Soft and nanoimprint lithography‐based patterning techniques and their limitations are surveyed with respect to patterning on low‐cost flexible foils. These show a shift from fabricating simple microlense structures to more complicated, high‐resolution electronic devices. The development of alternative, low‐temperature processable materials and the introduction of high‐resolution patterning strategies will lead to the low‐cost, self‐aligned fabrication of flexible displays and solar cells from cheaper but better performing organic materials.
A new semi‐empirical equation for compressed liquid densities of n‐alkanes
Authors: Sun Yanjun , Wang Xiaopo , Liu Zhigang
Published: August 2012

In this work, a new six‐parameter semi‐empirical equation has been developed for the predictions of the compressed liquid densities of n‐alkanes from C2 to C10. The resulting functional form was established with the quasi‐Newton optimization algorithm, which considers the experimental data sets for different fluids simultaneously. During the fitting process, the functional form of the equation is numerically very stable, and the substance‐specific coefficients can be obtained easily. The calculated values from the new model were compared with the available experimental data and the values from reference equations in the literature. In most cases, the deviations are not more than ±0.5% for temperatures up to 0.7 times the critical temperature, whereas the agreement is within ±1.0% in the temperature range from the triple point to the critical point at reduced pressure up to 15. It was shown that the new semi‐empirical equation was able to represent the compressed liquid densities of n‐alkanes in wide thermodynamic ranges. © 2012 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterizations of polybenzoxazines from coal‐based products via microwave and conventional heat treatments
Authors: İnan Tulay Y. , Karaca Birsen Y. , Dogan H.
Published: August 2012

About 43% clay containing humic acid (HA) was used as a phenol source for the production of polybenzoxazine composites. The use of humic acid as a phenol source from coal is the first attempt for the production of these materials. For poly(benzoxazine) precursor synthesis, solvent‐less conventional and more economical and time‐saving microwave heat treatments were applied. Molecular structures of the poly(benzoxazine) precursors were investigated by spectral analysis. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermal gravimetric analysis were used for the thermal characterizations. Nearly 300 and 250°C decomposition temperatures and 40 and 30% char yields were obtained at 900°C for HA‐based polybenzoxazines and bisphenol‐based polybenzoxazines, respectively. The morphology of the polybenzoxazines was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray analyses. The obtained results show the possibility of manufacturing the new polybenzoxazine composite materials by the method of solvent‐less microwave process. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci., 2013
Elevated concentrations of plasma adenosine in obese children
Authors: Escudero Andrea , Carreño Barbara , Retamal Nicole , Celis Cristian , Castro Luis , Aguayo Claudio , Acurio Jesenia , Escudero Carlos
Published: August 2012

There are no data regarding adenosine levels in obese children, even though is a ubiquitous molecule implicated in the regulation of lipid metabolism in humans. To determinate whether adenosine plasma levels are related with anthropometric and biochemical markers in children, we studied 51 students belong to Ramon Belmar School in Linares, Chile. Review of clinical data and frequent food questionnaire were taken in order to collect the information. Plasma adenosine levels were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography and biochemical parameters including insulin, glucose, total proteins, and lipid profile by using standard colorimetric assays. Children with detectable (above 0.1 μM) adenosine plasma levels (n = 30; BMI, 22.3 ± 0.7) had higher total cholesterol (P < 0.05); triglycerides (P < 0.01) and LDL‐cholesterol (P < 0.05) concentrations than children with undetectable adenosine levels (n = 21; BMI, 23.9 ± 0.61). Among the analyzed variables, only BMI and BMI standard deviation score (BMI‐SDS) were positively correlated with adenosine levels. Besides, obese children (n = 10) showed significantly high adenosine levels compared to controls (n = 11; 1.8 ± 0.2 vs. 1.2 ± 0.1 μM/mg protein, respectively. P < 0.05), but not compared to overweight children (n = 9). In conclusion, obesity in children is associated to high adenosine plasma levels. This study opens a new perspective to investigate the role of adenosine in the regulation of lipid metabolism in obese children. © 2012 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.
Embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cell differentiation as a tool in neurobiology
Authors: Nikoletopoulou Vassiliki , Tavernarakis Nektarios
Published: August 2012

Cell lines with the ability to differentiate into all types of somatic and germ cells represent a pluripotent developmental stage that transiently exists in vivo in the epiblast cells of the pre‐implantation embryo. Given the lack of access to human neurons, together with the limited numbers and heterogeneity of neurons obtainable from rodent primary cultures, the directed differentiation of pluripotent cell lines into defined cells of the neural lineage has provided a novel versatile tool in neurobiology. Offering a potentially unlimited source of material, directed differentiation of pluripotent cell lines has been particularly well combined with high‐throughput transcriptomic and epigenetic analyses. Here, we first overview the potential of different pluripotent lines to give rise to different types of neurons. Then, we discuss the emerging use of neuronal differentiation systems as a tool for unravelling mechanisms that regulate neuronal development and specification, modelling complex neurological diseases and understanding neuronal dysfunction. Beyond providing original insights in many aspects of neuronal biology, these tools have greatly facilitated the development of novel therapeutic interventions for neurological disorders.
The pattern of cell wall deterioration in lignocellulose fibers throughout enzymatic cellulose hydrolysis
Authors: Li Xinping , Clarke Kimberley , Li Kecheng , Chen Aicheng
Published: August 2012

Cell wall deterioration throughout enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulosic biomass is greatly affected by the chemical composition and the ultrastructure of the fiber cell wall. The resulting pattern of cell wall deterioration will reveal information on cellulose activity throughout enzymatic hydrolysis. This study investigates the progression and morphological changes in lignocellulose fibers throughout enzymatic hydrolysis, using (transmission electron microscopy) TEM and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM). Softwood thermo‐mechanical pulp (STMP) and softwood bleached kraft pulp (SBKP), lignocellulose substrates containing almost all the original fiber composition, and with lignin and some hemicellulose removed, respectively, was compared for morphology changes throughout hydrolysis. The difference of conversion between STMP and SBKP after 48 h of enzymatic hydrolysis is 11 and 88%, respectively. TEM images revealed an even fiber cell wall cross section density, with uneven middle lamella coverage in STMP fibers. SKBP fibers exhibited some spaces between cell wall and lamella layers due to the removal of lignin and some hemicellulose. After 1 h hydrolysis in SBKP fibers, there were more changes in the fiber cross‐sectional area than after 10 h hydrolysis in STMP fibers. Cell wall degradation was uneven, and originated in accessible cellulose throughout the fiber cell wall. FE‐SEM images illustrated more morphology changes in SBKP fibers than STMP fibers. Enzymatic action of STMP fiber resulted in a smoother fiber surface, along with fiber peeling and the formation of ribbon‐disjunction layers. SBKP fibers exhibited structural changes such as fiber erosion, fiber cutting, and fiber splitting throughout enzymatic hydrolysis. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
In situ pH maintenance for mammalian cell cultures in shake flasks and tissue culture flasks
Authors: Pradhan Ketaki , Pant Tejal , Gadgil Mugdha
Published: August 2012

pH in animal cell cultures decreases due to production of metabolites like lactate. pH control via measurement and base addition is not easily possible in small‐scale culture formats like tissue‐culture flasks and shake flasks. A hydrogel‐based system is reported for in situ pH maintenance without pH measurement in such formats, and is demonstrated to maintain pH between 6.8 and 7.2 for a suspension CHO cell line in CD CHO medium and between 7.3 and 7.5 for adherent A549 cells in DMEM:F12 containing 10% FBS. This system for pH maintenance, along with our previous report of hydrogels for controlled nutrient delivery in shake flasks can allow shake flasks to better mimic bioreactor‐based fed batch operation for initial screening during cell line and process development for recombinant protein production in mammalian cells. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Conversions of Osmabenzyne and Isoosmabenzene
Authors: Zhao Qianyi , Zhu Jun , Huang Zi‐Ao , Cao Xiao‐Yu , Xia Haiping
Published: August 2012

We report herein the first example of the conversion of metallabenzyne II and isometallabenzene III. The osmium hydride vinylidene complex 1 reacts with HCCCH(OEt)2 to give osmabenzyne 3 via isoosmabenzene 2. Compound 3 exhibits high thermal stability in air. Nonetheless, nucleophilic attack at 3 provides isoosmabenzenes 4 a and 4 b, or opens the ring to produce 5 a and 5 b. We propose mechanisms to disclose the intrinsic connection between the six‐membered metallacycles, and carry out DFT calculations to rationalize the regioselectivity of the nucleophilic addition reactions.
A Novel Thiophene Derivative‐based Conjugated Polymer for Polymer Solar Cells with High Open‐circuit Voltage
Authors: Chen Lie , Shen Xingxing , Chen Yiwang
Published: August 2012

A novel D‐A alternative conjugated polymer PBDTDMCT containing benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene (BDT) and dimethyl thiophene‐3,4‐dicarboxylate (DMCT), was designed and synthesized by Stille cross‐coupling reaction. The copolymer exhibited excellent solubility and good thermal stability. The optical band gap determined from the onset of absorption of the polymer film was 2.10 eV. By incorporation of the ester groups into the polymer side chain, the HOMO level of polymer PBDTDMT was tuned to be deep‐lying (−5.65 eV). Open‐circuit voltage of polymer solar cells constructed based on PBDTDMT and [6,6]‐phenyl‐C71‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) can be tuned to achieve values as high as ca. 1.0 V.
Imidazole‐catalyzed Three‐component Cascade Reaction for the Facile Synthesis of Highly Substituted 3,4‐Dihydropyridin‐2‐one Derivatives
Authors: Liu Zhiqiang , Tan Lu , Wu Qi , Lin Xianfu
Published: August 2012

A novel one‐pot protocol for the synthesis of valuable 3,4‐dihydropyridin‐2‐ones from the condensation of aldehyde with cyanoacetamide and 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds in the presence of imidazole was developed. A series of aldehydes and 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds were employed to examine the scope of substrates for this protocol. This reaction proceeded through the formation of one ring and four new bonds (two CC, one CN, one CC) via the sequence involving Knoevenagel condensation, Michael addition and intramolecular cyclization with moderate to excellent yields. All new compounds were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and HRMS.
Projecting prostate cancer mortality in the PCPT and REDUCE chemoprevention trials
Authors: Pinsky Paul F. , Black Amanda , Grubb Robert , Crawford E. David , Andriole Gerald , Thompson Ian , Parnes Howard
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND.

Two recent chemoprevention trials demonstrated significant reductions in overall prostate cancer incidence. However, a possible increase in high‐grade disease has raised concerns that the harms of the drugs, including mortality because of high‐grade disease, may outweigh the benefits. The authors attempted to estimate the effect of these drugs on prostate cancer mortality to be able to better evaluate the cost‐benefit tradeoff.

METHODS.

The authors analyzed prostate cancer incidence in the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial (PCPT) and Reduction by Dutasteride of Prostate Cancer Events (REDUCE) trial, which evaluated finasteride and the related compound dutasteride, respectively (both vs placebo). They used 13‐year prostate cancer survival data from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian (PLCO) trial to project prostate cancer mortality from incidence patterns; survival rates were applied to incident cancers according to prognostic strata, which were defined by Gleason score, prostate‐specific antigen level, and clinical stage. For PCPT, the analysis was performed using both original trial results and previously published adjusted analyses that attempted to account for artifacts related to the drugs' effect on prostate volume.

RESULTS.

For the PCPT trial, the estimated relative risk (RR) for prostate cancer mortality was 1.02 (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.85‐1.23) using the original trial results and 0.87 (95% CI, 0.72‐1.06) and 0.91 (95% CI, 0.76‐1.09) based on the adjusted PCPT analyses. For the REDUCE trial, the RR for prostate cancer mortality was 0.93 (95% CI, 0.80‐1.08).

CONCLUSIONS.

Projecting a mortality outcome of the PCPT and REDUCE trials as an approach to weighing benefits versus harms suggests at most a small increase in prostate cancer mortality in the treatment arms, and possibly a modest decrease. Cancer 2013. © 2012 American Cancer Society.