bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regret and Police Reporting Among Individuals Who Have Experienced Sexual Assault
Authors: Marchetti Carol Anne
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND: Sexual assault (SA) and the underreporting of SA are highly prevalent in the United States. Since regret is a complex, negative emotion linked to decision making, studying regret within the context of reporting SA is important. OBJECTIVE: To describe decisional regret regarding SA reporting. DESIGN: A cross-sectional, descriptive study design was used. The sample included 78 individuals, aged 18 to 25 years, who experienced SA during the past 5 years and completed an electronic questionnaire. A multiple regression model was generated to describe how selected independent variables explain variation in levels of regret. RESULTS: In the final model, four independent variables accounted for 33.3% (adjusted R2) of the variation in regret: weight change, stranger assailant, professional treatment, and police reporting. CONCLUSIONS: The findings inform clinical practice by describing post–decisional regret about the reporting of SA, and they provide a foundation to develop strategies (e.g., decision aids) that can assist clinicians to help patients as they struggle to make difficult health care decisions.
Note-taking in co-located collaborative visual analytics: Analysis of an observational study
Authors: Mahyar Narges , Sarvghad Ali , Tory Melanie
Published: January 2012

In an observational study, we noticed that record-keeping plays a critical role in the overall process of collaborative visual data analysis. Record-keeping involves recording material for later use, ranging from data about the visual analysis processes and visualization states to notes and annotations that externalize user insights, findings, and hypotheses. In our study, co-located teams worked on collaborative visual analytics tasks using large interactive wall and tabletop displays. Part of our findings is a collaborative data analysis framework that encompasses record-keeping as one of the main activities. In this paper, our primary focus is on note-taking activity. Based on our observations, we characterize notes according to their content, scope, and usage, and describe how they fit into a process of collaborative data analysis. We then discuss suggestions to improve the design of note-taking functionality for co-located collaborative visual analytics tools.
Damage detection for a frame structure model using vibration displacement measurement
Authors: Xu B , Song G , Masri Sami F
Published: January 2012

A structural parameter identification and damage detection approach using displacement measurement time series is proposed, and the performance of the approach is validated experimentally with a frame structure model in a healthy condition and with joint connection damages. The dynamic displacement response of the frame structure under base excitation is measured by noncontact laser displacement sensors. The proposed approach is carried out using two neural networks: one is called displacement-based neural network emulator (DNNE) and the other is called parametric evaluation neural network (PENN). First, the theoretical basis and the selection of the input and output of the DNNE and the PENN are explained, and second, an identification index called root mean square (RMS) of prediction displacement difference vector (RMSPDDV) is defined. The performance of the proposed methodology for damage detection of the frame structure model with different joint damage scenarios introduced by loosening the bolts connecting the beams and columns is investigated with the direct use of displacement measurement under base excitations. The results from the proposed time domain displacement-based identification approach are compared with them based on the extracted frequencies and show that the proposed time domain methodology can identify the variation of interstory stiffness due to the joint damage with acceptable accuracy without any modal shapes and frequencies extracted from a dynamic test. The proposed approach provides an alternative way for damage detection of engineering structures by the direct use of structural dynamic displacement measurements.
Former Hand Territory Activity Increases After Amputation During Intact Hand Movements, but Is Unaffected by Illusory Visual Feedback
Authors: Bogdanov Sergei , Smith Jolinda , Frey Scott H.
Published: January 2012

Background. In healthy adults, hand movements are controlled largely by the contralateral primary motor cortex. Following amputation, however, movements of the intact hand are accompanied by increased activity in the sensorimotor cortices of both cerebral hemispheres. Objective. The authors tested whether use of the intact hand reactivates the cortical territory formerly devoted to the now missing hand and whether these effects can be augmented by motor imagery (MI) and/or exposure to illusory visual “feedback” (VF) of the absent hand created with a mirror. Methods. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to delineate the boundaries of normative sensorimotor hand representations in healthy controls. Brain activity from 11 unilateral hand amputees was recorded while they performed aurally paced thumb–finger sequencing movements with their intact hands under 4 conditions: (1) motor execution of the intact hand alone (ME), (2) ME with corresponding MI of the amputated hand, (3) ME with VF of the amputated hand, and (4) ME with MI and VF. Results. Intact hand movements increased activity specifically within the former sensorimotor hand territory during all conditions, an effect that may be attributable to decreased levels of interhemispheric inhibition and/or use-dependent functional reorganization following amputation. This effect was not significantly increased by the addition of VF and/or MI of the amputated hand. However, in amputees, MI was associated with an expansion of this ipsilateral response into parietal, premotor, and presupplementary motor areas. Conclusion. Active engagement of the intact hand may be critical for therapies seeking to stimulate the former hand territory.
Effect of tool travel and rotation speeds on weld zone defects and joint strength of aluminium steel lap joints made by friction stir welding
Authors: Movahedi M , Kokabi A H , Reihani S M Seyed , Najafi H
Published: January 2012

In this study, Al-5083 and St-12 alloy sheets were friction stir lap welded at different travel (7–23 cm min−1) and rotation (750–1125 rev min−1) speeds of the welding tool. The welded joints were characterised by various methods including shear tensile and Vickers microhardness tests, optical and scanning electron microscopies and X-ray diffraction analysis. The results showed that the weld zone defects decreased, and the joint strength also improved significantly with the reducing tool travel speed from 23 to 7 cm min−1. The travel speed of 11 cm min−1 was an optimum speed within the travel speeds investigated in this work. Additionally, raising the tool rotation speed enhanced the joint strength slightly. The microhardness results confirmed the formation of intermetallic phase layer with the hardness of ∼335 HV at the swirl layered structure.
Deficiency of CD73/ecto-5′-nucleotidase in mice enhances acute graft-versus-host disease
Authors: Tsukamoto Hiroki , Chernogorova Petya , Ayata Korcan , Gerlach Ulrike V. , Rughani Ankur , Ritchey Jerry W. , Ganesan Jayanthi , Follo Marie , Zeiser Robert , Thompson Linda F. , Idzko Marco
Published: January 2012

Extracellular ATP and adenosine have immunoregulatory roles during inflammation. Elevated extracellular ATP is known to exacerbate GVHD, and the pharmacologic activation of the adenosine A2A receptor is protective. However, the role of endogenous adenosine is unknown. We used gene-targeted mice and a pharmacologic inhibitor to test the role of adenosine generated by CD73/ecto-5′-nucleotidase in GVHD. In allogeneic transplants, both donor and recipient CD73 were protective, with recipient CD73 playing the dominant role. CD73 deficiency led to enhanced T-cell expansion and IFN-γ and IL-6 production, and the migratory capacity of Cd73−/− T cells in vitro was increased. However, the number of regulatory T cells and expression of costimulatory molecules on antigen-presenting cells were unchanged. A2A receptor deficiency led to increased numbers of allogeneic T cells, suggesting that signaling through the A2A receptor via CD73-generated adenosine is a significant part of the mechanism by which CD73 limits the severity of GVHD. Pharmacologic blockade of CD73 also enhanced graft-versus-tumor activity. These data have clinical implications, as both the severity of GVHD and the strength of an alloimmune antitumor response could be manipulated by enhancing or blocking CD73 activity or adenosine receptor signaling depending on the clinical indication.
The MDRD equation underestimates the prevalence of CKD among blacks and overestimates the prevalence of CKD among whites compared to the CKD-EPI equation: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Arora Pradeep , Rajagopalan Srini , Patel Nilang , Nainani Neha , Venuto Rocco C , Lohr James W
Published: January 2012

Background

Black individuals are far more likely than white individuals to develop end stage renal disease (ESRD). However, earlier stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) have been reported to be less prevalent among blacks. This disparity remains poorly understood. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether the lower prevalence of CKD among blacks in early stages of CKD might be due in part to an inability of the MDRD equation to accurately determine early stages of CKD in both the black and white population.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 97, 451 patients seen in primary care clinic in Veterans Integrated Service Network 2 (VISN 2) over a 7 year period to determine the prevalence of CKD using both the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) Study equation and the more recently developed CKD Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation. Demographic data, comorbid conditions, prescription of medications, and laboratory data were recorded. Logistic regression and quantile regression models were used to compare the prevalence of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) categories between black and white individuals.

Results

The overall prevalence of CKD was lower when the CKD-EPI equation was used. Prevalence of CKD in whites was 53.2% by MDRD and 48.4% by CKD-EPI, versus 34.1% by MDRD and 34.5% by CKD-EPI in blacks. The cumulative logistic regression and quantile regression showed that when eGFR was calculated by the EPI method, blacks were as likely to present with an eGFR value less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 as whites. Using the CKD-EPI equation, blacks were more likely than white individuals to have stage 3b, 4 and 5 CKD. Using the MDRD method, the prevalence in blacks was only higher than in whites for stage 4 and 5 CKD. Similar results were obtained when the analysis was confined to patients over 65 years of age.

Conclusions

The MDRD equation overestimates the prevalence of CKD among whites and underestimates the prevalence of CKD in blacks compared to the CKD-EPI equation.
Life satisfaction and mortality in elderly people: The Kangwha Cohort Study
Authors: Kimm Heejin , Sull Jae Woong , Gombojav Bayasgalan , Yi Sang-Wook , Ohrr Heechoul
Published: January 2012

Background

As well as biomedical risk factors, psychological factors have been reported to be related to mortality rate. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between life satisfaction and mortality in elderly people through an 11.8-year follow-up study of a prospective cohort.

Methods

Among 3,600 participants of the Kangwha Cohort Study who survived in 1994, 1,939 respondents of the Life Satisfaction Index (LSI)-A questionnaire were included (men, 821; women, 1118). The mortality risk for the period up to December 2005 was measured using the Cox Proportional Hazard Model.

Results

When the relationship between LSI and mortality was evaluated in men, the unsatisfied group with lower LSI scores showed a significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 1.42; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.11-1.83) than the satisfied group with higher LSI scores. In women, the unsatisfied group showed a significantly higher risk of all-cause mortality (HR, 1.51; 95% CI, 1.18-1.92) and cardiovascular mortality (HR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.30-3.85) than the satisfied group.

Conclusion

We found that elderly people with a lower LSI score, regardless of gender, were at risk of increased mortality from all causes, and low LSI score was also associated with cardiovascular mortality.
A multi-center study on low-frequency rTMS combined with intensive occupational therapy for upper limb hemiparesis in post-stroke patients
Authors: Kakuda Wataru , Abo Masahiro , Shimizu Masato , Sasanuma Jinichi , Okamoto Takatsugu , Yokoi Aki , Taguchi Kensuke , Mitani Sugao , Harashima Hiroaki , Urushidani Naoki , Urashima Mitsuyoshi ,   The NEURO Investigators
Published: January 2012

Background

Both low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and intensive occupational therapy (OT) have been recently reported to be clinically beneficial for post-stroke patients with upper limb hemiparesis. Based on these reports, we developed an inpatient combination protocol of these two modalities for the treatment of such patients. The aims of this pilot study were to confirm the safety and feasibility of the protocol in a large number of patients from different institutions, and identify predictors of the clinical response to the treatment.

Methods

The study subjects were 204 post-stroke patients with upper limb hemiparesis (mean age at admission 58.5 ± 13.4 years, mean time after stroke 5.0 ± 4.5 years, ± SD) from five institutions in Japan. During 15-day hospitalization, each patient received 22 treatment sessions of 20-min low-frequency rTMS and 120-min intensive OT daily. Low-frequency rTMS of 1 Hz was applied to the contralesional hemisphere over the primary motor area. The intensive OT, consisting of 60-min one-to-one training and 60-min self-exercise, was provided after the application of low-frequency rTMS. Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) and Wolf Motor Function Test (WMFT) were performed serially. The physiatrists and occupational therapists involved in this study received training prior to the study to standardize the therapeutic protocol.

Results

All patients completed the protocol without any adverse effects. The FMA score increased and WMFT log performance time decreased significantly at discharge, relative to the respective values at admission (change in FMA score: median at admission, 47 points; median at discharge, 51 points; p < 0.001. change in WMFT log performance time: median at admission, 3.23; median at discharge, 2.51; p < 0.001). These changes were persistently seen up to 4 weeks after discharge in 79 patients. Linear regression analysis found no significant relationship between baseline parameters and indexes of improvement in motor function.

Conclusions

The 15-day inpatient rTMS plus OT protocol is a safe, feasible, and clinically useful neurorehabilitative intervention for post-stroke patients with upper limb hemiparesis. The response to the treatment was not influenced by age or time after stroke onset. The efficacy of the intervention should be confirmed in a randomized controlled study including a control group.
Chemical composition and antibacterial activity of the essential oils from Launaea resedifolia L
Authors: Zellagui Amar , Gherraf Noureddine , Ladjel Segni , Hameurlaine Samir
Published: January 2012

Background

Several species of the genus Launaea are used in folk medicine such as in bitter stomachic, skin diseases, and reported to have antitumor, insecticide, and cytotoxic activities. The antimicrobial activities of coumarin constituents and the neuropharmacological properties have been investigated as well. In this study, the chemical composition of essential oils from Launaea resedifolia L. has been identified using the ordinary GC-MS technique to reveal the presence of 19 compounds dominated by dioctyl phthalate. Moreover, the antibacterial activity of the crude oil has been carried out using disk diffusion method against seven bacteria strains.

Results

Nineteen compounds of essential oil of L. resedifolia L. were identified, representing 86.68% of the total oil. The compounds were identified by spectral comparison to be mainly esters, alcohols, ketones, and terpenes. The principal constituents are dioctyl phthalate (39.84%), Decanoic acid, decyl ester (12.09%), 11-Octadecenal (11.24%), and Eucalyptol (07.31%), while others were present in relatively small amounts. As far as antibacterial essays are concerned, it was found that the oils are active against most of the tested bacterial strains.

Conclusion

A major constituent in visible parts was Dioctyl phthalate (39.84%) and the yield of essential oils was 0.9%. These extracts reveal in vitro antibacterial activity on the studied bacterial, confirmed by the inhibition zone diameter ranging from 11 to 37 mm and a MIC value between 0.09 and 0.69 depending on the microorganism being tested.
Failure to normalize lymphopenia following trauma is associated with increased mortality, independent of the leukocytosis pattern
Authors: Heffernan Daithi S , Monaghan Sean F , Thakkar Rajan K , Machan Jason T , Cioffi William G , Ayala Alfred
Published: January 2012

Introduction

Following trauma and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), the typical response is an elevation of the total complete blood count (CBC) and a reduction of the lymphocyte count. This leukocytosis typically returns to normal within 48 hours. The persistence of a leukocytosis following trauma is associated with adverse outcomes. Although lymphocyte anergy and dysfunction following trauma is associated with increased risk for infection and sepsis, there is a paucity of data regarding the impact of a persistence of a low lymphocyte count in trauma patients.

Methods

This is a retrospective review of prospectively collected data from trauma patients collected over the 5 years of September 2003 to September 2008. Patients were included if the injury severity score (ISS) was >/=15, and they survived at least 3 days. Demographic data, mechanism and injury severity score, mortality, and length of stay were collected from the medical record. Laboratory values for the first 4 hospital days were collected. Leukocyte, neutrophil and lymphocyte counts were extracted from the daily complete blood count (CBC). Patients were then grouped based on response (elevation/depression) of each component of the CBC, and their return, or failure thereof, to normal. Proportional hazards regression with time-varying covariates as well as Kaplan-Meier curves were used to predict risk of death, time to death and time to healthy discharge based on fluctuations of the individual components of the CBC.

Results

There were 2448 patients admitted over the 5 years included in the analysis. When adjusting for age, gender and ISS the relative risk of death was elevated with a persistent leukocytosis (2.501 (95% CI = 1.477-4.235)) or failure to normalize lymphopenia (1.639 (95% CI = 10.17-2.643)) within the first 4 days following admission. Similar results were seen when Kaplan-Meier curves were created. Persistent lymphopenia was associated with shortest time to death. Paradoxically in survivors persistent lymphopenia was associated with the shortest time to discharge.

Conclusions

Persistently abnormal CBC responses are associated with a higher mortality following trauma. This is the first report noting that a failure to normalize lymphopenia in severely injured patients is associated with significantly higher mortality.
Loss of FXR Protects against Diet-Induced Obesity and Accelerates Liver Carcinogenesis in ob/ob Mice
Authors: Zhang Yanqiao , Ge Xuemei , Heemstra Lydia A. , Chen Wei-Dong , Xu Jiesi , Smith Joseph L. , Ma Huiyan , Kasim Neda , Edwards Peter A. , Novak Colleen M.
Published: January 2012

Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is known to play important regulatory roles in bile acid, lipid, and carbohydrate metabolism. Aged (>12 months old) Fxr−/− mice also develop spontaneous liver carcinomas. In this report, we used three mouse models to investigate the role of FXR deficiency in obesity. As compared with low-density lipoprotein receptor (Ldlr) knockout (Ldlr−/−) mice, the Ldlr−/−Fxr−/− double-knockout mice were highly resistant to diet-induced obesity, which was associated with increased expression of genes involved in energy metabolism in the skeletal muscle and brown adipose tissue. Such a striking effect of FXR deficiency on obesity on an Ldlr−/− background led us to investigate whether FXR deficiency alone is sufficient to affect obesity. As compared with wild-type mice, Fxr−/− mice showed resistance to diet-induced weight gain. Interestingly, only female Fxr−/− mice showed significant resistance to diet-induced obesity, which was accompanied by increased energy expenditure in these mice. Finally, we determined the effect of FXR deficiency on obesity in a genetically obese and diabetic mouse model. We generated ob−/−Fxr−/− mice that were deficient in both Leptin and Fxr. On a chow diet, ob−/−Fxr−/− mice gained less body weight and had reduced body fat mass as compared with ob/ob mice. In addition, we observed liver carcinomas in 43% of young (<11 months old) Ob−/−Fxr−/− mice. Together these data indicate that loss of FXR prevents diet-induced or genetic obesity and accelerates liver carcinogenesis under diabetic conditions.
Apparent diffusion coefficient measurements of the pancreas, pancreas carcinoma, and mass-forming focal pancreatitis
Authors: Wiggermann Philipp , Grützmann Robert , Weissenböck Angelika , Kamusella Peter , Dittert Dag-Daniel , Stroszczynski Christian
Published: January 2012

Background

Mass-forming focal pancreatitis (FP) may mimic pancreatic cancer (PC) on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, and the preoperative differential diagnosis is often difficult. Recently, the usefulness of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer has been reported in several studies.

Purpose

To investigate if apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measurements based on diffusion-weighted echo-planar imaging (DW-EPI) may distinguish between normal pancreas parenchyma, mass-forming focal pancreatitis, and pancreas carcinoma.

Material and Methods

MRI was performed on 64 patients: 24 with pancreas carcinoma (PC), 20 with mass-forming focal pancreatitis (FP), three patients with other focal pancreatic disease as well as 17 controls without any known pancreatic disease. Diffusion-weighted sequence with ADC maps and T2-weighted sequence for anatomical information was performed. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps were automatically created and analyzed using a dedicated user interface. In the group with pancreas disease the abnormal parenchyma was detected by using T1- and T2-weighted images and the region of interest (ROI) was transferred exactly to the ADC map and the coefficients were registered. In the control group the ROI was set to the head of the pancreas followed by a similar registration of the ADCs.

Results

ADC values for mass-forming FP and PC differed significantly from ADC values for normal pancreas parenchyma ( P = 0.001/ P = 0.002). Mean ADC values for mass-forming FP were 0.69 ± 0.18 × 10−3 mm2/s. ADC values for PC were 0.78 ± 0.11 × 10−3 mm2/s, compared to ADC values of 0.17 ± 0.06 × 10−3 mm2/s in the control group. However there was no significant difference in ADCs between PC and mass-forming FP ( P = 0.15).

Conclusion

ADC measurements clearly differentiated between normal pancreatic tissue and abnormal pancreas parenchyma (PC and mass-forming FP). However there is an overlap in values of PC and mass-forming FP, with the consequent problem of their correct identification.
Home telemental health implementation and outcomes using electronic messaging
Authors: Godleski Linda , Cervone Dana , Vogel Donna , Rooney Meghan
Published: January 2012

In 2007, the VA Connecticut Healthcare System began a home electronic messaging programme for mental health patients. During the first two years, 76 patients with diagnoses of schizophrenia, post traumatic stress disorder, depression and substance-use disorders received a home messaging device, which was connected via an ordinary telephone line. There were daily questions, which were based on disease management protocols, and included alerts, data and educational components. Patient data were sent to a nurse practitioner each day for triage and follow-up. Patients used the device for at least six months. In the six months prior to enrolment, 42 patients were hospitalized for 46 admissions. In the following six months, six patients were hospitalized for nine admissions ( P < 0.0001). In the six months prior to enrolment, 47 patients had a total of 80 ER visits. In the following six months, 16 patients had a total of 32 ER visits ( P < 0.0001). Questionnaire responses indicated a high level of satisfaction with the home messaging programme.
The use of web-based interventions to prevent excessive weight gain
Authors: Maon Siti , Edirippulige Sisira , Ware Robert , Batch Jennifer
Published: January 2012

We reviewed web-based interventions for overweight and obesity prevention. A literature search was conducted using seven electronic databases. Manually searched articles were also included. Thirty studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Of these, 13 studied physical activity, eight studied dietary practices and nine studied a combination of physical activity and dietary practice. Twenty-eight of the studies (93%) reported positive changes in moderate to vigorous physical activity level, fruit and vegetable intake and psychological factors. A meta-analysis showed there were improvements, though not significant, in fruit and vegetable consumption (standardised mean difference, SMD = 0.61; 95% CI =−0.13 to 1.35) and physical activity (SMD = 0.15; 95% CI =−0.06 to 0.35). The review suggests that web-based interventions are a useful educational tool for increasing awareness and making healthy behaviour changes in relation to an excessive weight gain problem.
Feasibility of providing nephrology services to remote communities with videoconferencing
Authors: Campbell Manon , Akbari Ayub , Amos Stephanie , Keyes Cameron
Published: January 2012

We examined the feasibility of telemedicine clinics for patients with chronic kidney disease (not on dialysis) for a period of 18 months. Telemedicine clinics were run at two peripheral hospitals about 100 km from the specialist hospital in Ottawa. A total of 115 questionnaires were completed by patients and providers during the period March 2009 to July 2009. The participants were overwhelmingly positive and wanted telemedicine to continue. Some patients indicated they would discontinue follow-up care if they had to travel to Ottawa. The analysis of staff hours worked showed almost no increase following the introduction of telemedicine. Telemedicine is therefore feasible for follow-up care of remote chronic kidney disease patients.
Lung fat embolism in a body changed by putrefaction: a hip fracture antemortem in origin
Authors: Nikolić Slobodan , Živković Vladimir , Strajina Veljko , Djonić Danijela , Popović Vesna , Djurić Marija
Published: January 2012

Fat embolism in the lungs can unreservedly be accepted as a vital reaction even in cases of advanced putrefaction. A case is presented herein of an 80-year-old woman, found dead in her locked flat, lying on her right side on the floor. In addition to hip fracture, an external examination of the body and a forensic autopsy revealed putrefactive changes. The histological examination of frozen Sudan III-stained sections of the lungs was performed, where orange, drop, sausage- and branching-shaped fat emboli were found. Despite advanced postmortem putrefaction changes, findings of fat emboli in the lung vessels demonstrated that the hip fracture was antemortem in origin. In this case study, the utility of a lung fat embolism is highlighted as being a vital sign even in cases where the body of the deceased has been changed by advanced putrefaction.
Diagnosis of grey matter heterotopia on cerebral ultrasound in a newborn: lessons from a case report for daily clinical practice
Authors: Fernandez Alvarez J R , Moorthy Ima , Kenney Ian Joseph , Rabe Heike
Published: January 2012

Grey matter heterotopias result from premature arrest of neuronal migration from the germinal matrix in the lateral ventricular wall to the developing cortex. To date, heterotopias have been exclusively diagnosed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We present a case of heterotopia primarily detected with transfontanellar cranial ultrasonography (CUS) and review the literature for sonographic signs to suggest the presence of this pathological entity. Transfontanellar CUS evaluation of a preterm twin revealed a prominent rectangular-shaped left lateral ventricle. Subsequent angled views identified an abnormally increased echogenicity within the ipsilateral cortex. MRI confirmed subependymal and possibly subcortical heterotopia. A literature review using the search words ‘grey matter heterotopia’ was undertaken and further refined for specific information related to imaging criteria on MRI or sonography. Neuroradiologists classify heterotopias on MRI by location and appearance into three types: subependymal, subcortical and band types. Signs of subependymal heterotopia on CUS include ventricular wall irregularity, hyperechoic periventricular band and isolated hyperechoic periventricular nodules protruding into the ventricle. They are rarely associated with cortical lesions. CUS signs of subcortical heterotopia include abnormal hyperechoic regions in the white matter. Our sonographic imaging revealed an irregular shape of the left ventricle suggestive of subependymal heterotopia. Other abnormalities described with subependymal heterotopia were not found. A hyperechoic structure in the left cortical region next to the affected lateral ventricle could represent enfolded cortex as is seen in subcortical heterotopia. We propose an extended search for cerebral lesions outside the usual field of view (i.e. white matter and cortex) using angled coronal and parasagittal CUS views to display frontal, occipital and lateral cortices as optimally as can be achieved whenever an angular or irregular lateral ventricle shape is encountered. The differential diagnoses including haemorrhagic, ischaemic and structural parenchymal lesions should be extended to include grey matter heterotopia.
Expression of Long-form N-Acetylglucosamine-6-O-Sulfotransferase 1 in Human High Endothelial Venules
Authors: Fujiwara Maiko , Kobayashi Motohiro , Hoshino Hitomi , Uchimura Kenji , Nakada Tsutomu , Masumoto Junya , Sakai Yasuhiro , Fukuda Minoru , Nakayama Jun
Published: January 2012

Two members of the N-acetylglucosamine-6- O-sulfotransferase (GlcNAc6ST) family, GlcNAc6ST-1 and GlcNAc6ST-2, function in the biosynthesis of 6-sulfo sialyl Lewis X–capped glycoproteins expressed on high endothelial venules (HEVs) in secondary lymphoid organs. Thus, both enzymes play a critical role in L-selectin-expressing lymphocyte homing. Human GlcNAc6ST-1 is encoded by a 1593-bp open reading frame exhibiting two 5′ in-frame methionine codons spaced 141 bp apart. Both resemble the consensus sequence for translation initiation. Thus, it has been hypothesized that both long and short forms of GlcNAc6ST-1 may be present, although endogenous expression of either form has not been confirmed in humans. Here, the authors developed an antibody recognizing amino acid residues between the first two human GlcNAc6ST-1 methionines. This antibody specifically recognizes the long form of the enzyme, a finding validated by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence cytochemistry of HeLa cells misexpressing long and/or short forms of human GlcNAc6ST-1. Using this antibody, the authors carried out immunofluorescence histochemistry of human lymph node tissue sections and found endogenous expression of the long form of the enzyme in human tissue, predominantly in the trans-Golgi network of endothelial cells that form HEVs.
Exploração vocacional em adolescentes: avaliação de uma intervenção em classe
Authors: Königstedt Martina , Taveira Maria do Céu
Published: January 2012

Analisa-se o impacto de uma intervenção psicológica na exploração e tomada de decisão vocacional em adolescentes portugueses. Em contexto curricular e de classe, desenvolveram-se actividades de exploração do meio e do Eu com 39 alunos e 43 alunas do 9º ano, entre 13 e 17 anos (M=14,4, DP=0,95). Em um design pré/pós-teste, aplicaram-se o Career Exploration Survey (CES) e o Career Decision Difficulties Questionnaire (CDDQ). Os resultados do teste do sinal evidenciaram ganhos significativos (p<0,01) nas dimensões de exploração e diminuição significativa da falta de informação profissional (p<0,01) e do total das dificuldades de decisão (p<0,05). Observou-se um padrão de correlações negativas (ró de Spearman) entre as duas medidas vocacionais, evidenciando uma relação entre a informação explorada na intervenção e a diminuição das dificuldades de decisão por falta de motivação. Em geral, os resultados suportam a importância do papel da exploração da carreira na diminuição das dificuldades de tomada de decisão.
Qualidade da educação científica na voz dos professores
Authors: Rezende Flavia , Duarte Márcia Sampaio , Schwartz Luziane Beyruth , Carvalho Roberta Comissanha de
Published: January 2012

O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar os sentidos de qualidade atribuídos por professores do Ensino Médio ao ensino de ciências. O estudo baseia-se em um grupo focal realizado com nove professores das ciências naturais e de matemática de escolas públicas e privadas da cidade do Rio de Janeiro. A análise do discurso dos professores baseou-se na perspectiva sociocultural de Wertsch, que integra os conceitos fundamentais da filosofia da linguagem de Bakhtin. Inventariamos perspectivas de qualidade presentes nos discursos dos professores e seu diálogo com diferentes linguagens sociais. Apesar das diferenças entre contextos educacionais e linguagens sociais usadas pelos professores, percebemos um sentido negativo de qualidade atribuído por todos eles à educação científica. Assim, os professores enunciam o que seria a suposta qualidade por meio do discurso sobre sua falta. Identificamos tensões que problematizam suas perspectivas de qualidade acerca do currículo, do trabalho docente, da aprendizagem, das tecnologias e da legislação educacional.
Pós-graduação e pesquisa em ensino de biologia no Brasil: um estudo com base em dissertações e teses
Authors: Teixeira Paulo Marcelo Marini , Megid Neto Jorge
Published: January 2012

Este artigo apresenta resultados de pesquisa que descreve o conjunto de dissertações e teses sobre o ensino de Biologia no Brasil. Foram identificados, por meio de bancos de informações bibliográficas, 351 trabalhos defendidos no período de 1972 a 2004. Essa produção é aqui descrita, sendo caracterizadas algumas de suas tendências com base nos seguintes descritores: autor e orientador do trabalho; grau de titulação acadêmica; instituição de origem do trabalho; ano de defesa; distribuição geográfica; e fomento. Os resultados são explicitados de modo a se ampliar a divulgação das pesquisas no campo do ensino de Biologia e se desenvolverem descrições e análises que permitam compreender melhor a formação e o desenvolvimento dessa subárea de pesquisa no Brasil.
O discurso sobre a consciência em memoriais de educadores ambientais
Authors: Piccinini Cláudia Lino
Published: January 2012

Tendo como ponto de partida pesquisa que analisou os caminhos de formação e de atuação profissional de um grupo de educadores ambientais, chamaram a atenção aspectos da narrativa que denominei de "discurso sobre a consciência". Trabalhando com base em memoriais autobiográficos destes educadores, e tendo como aporte teórico-metodológico a teoria da enunciação de Bakhtin (1986 e 2003), verificou-se que a visão manifesta não surgiu como consciência de classe, mas, em sua maioria, como consciência ingênua, mesclada ao desejo de poder contribuir para as mudanças das contradições socioambientais do capitalismo, sem assumir um papel de confronto à ideologia dominante.
Ehrlichiosis in Brazil
Authors: Vieira Rafael Felipe da Costa , Biondo Alexander Welker , Guimarães Ana Marcia Sá , Santos Andrea Pires dos , Santos Rodrigo Pires dos , Dutra Leonardo Hermes , Diniz Pedro Paulo Vissotto de Paiva , Morais Helio Autran de , Messick Joanne Belle , Labruna Marcelo Bahia , Vidotto Odilon
Published: January 2012

Ehrlichiosis is a disease caused by rickettsial organisms belonging to the genus Ehrlichia. In Brazil, molecular and serological studies have evaluated the occurrence of Ehrlichia species in dogs, cats, wild animals and humans. Ehrlichia canis is the main species found in dogs in Brazil, although E. ewingii infection has been recently suspected in five dogs. Ehrlichia chaffeensis DNA has been detected and characterized in mash deer, whereas E. muris and E. ruminantium have not yet been identified in Brazil. Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis caused by E. canis appears to be highly endemic in several regions of Brazil, however prevalence data are not available for several regions. Ehrlichia canis DNA also has been detected and molecularly characterized in three domestic cats, and antibodies against E. canis were detected in free-ranging Neotropical felids. There is serological evidence suggesting the occurrence of human ehrlichiosis in Brazil but its etiologic agent has not yet been established. Improved molecular diagnostic resources for laboratory testing will allow better identification and characterization of ehrlichial organisms associated with human ehrlichiosis in Brazil.
A novel A2 allele found in Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi
Authors: Oliveira Trícia Maria Ferreira de Sousa , Vasconcelos Elton José Rosas de , Nakaghi Andréa Cristina Higa , Defina Tânia Paula Aquino , Jusi Márcia Mariza Gomes , Baldani Cristiane Divan , Cruz Ângela Kaysel , Machado Rosangela Zacarias
Published: January 2012

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a widely spread zoonotic disease. In Brazil the disease is caused by Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi. Peridomestic sandflies acquire the etiological agent by feeding on blood of infected reservoir animals, such as dogs or wildlife. The disease is endemic in Brazil and epidemic foci have been reported in densely populated cities all over the country. Many clinical features of Leishmania infection are related to the host-parasite relationship, and many candidate virulence factors in parasites that cause VL have been studied such as A2 genes. The A2 gene was first isolated in 1994 and then in 2005 three new alleles were described in Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum. In the present study we amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequenced the A2 gene from the genome of a clonal population of L. (L.) infantum chagasi VL parasites. The L. (L.) infantum chagasi A2 gene was amplified, cloned, and sequenced in. The amplified fragment showed approximately 90% similarity with another A2 allele amplified in Leishmania (Leishmania) donovani and in L.(L.) infantum described in literature. However, nucleotide translation shows differences in protein amino acid sequence, which may be essential to determine the variability of A2 genes in the species of the L. (L.) donovani complex and represents an additional tool to help understanding the role this gene family may have in establishing virulence and immunity in visceral leishmaniasis. This knowledge is important for the development of more accurate diagnostic tests and effective tools for disease control.
Natural infection by Eimeria spp. in a cohort of lambs raised extensively in Northeast Brazil
Authors: Silva Rizia Maria da , Facury-Filho Elias Jorge , Souza Maria Fátima , Ribeiro Múcio Flávio Barbosa
Published: January 2012

The aim of the study was to examine and describe the changes in the course of Eimeria infection in a cohort of lambs of the mixed breed Santa Inês raised extensively on a farm in the State of Rio Grande do Norte, northeastern Brazil. The study was carried out between April and August 2008, during which period fecal samples were collected on a weekly basis from each of the 27 male lambs starting from the day after birth until the age of 90 days. Samples were analyzed under optical microscope and those testing positive for Eimeria oocysts were submitted to a quantitative analysis. Oocysts were detected in 17% of the lambs by week 3, but by week 6 100% of the animals were infected. Eight species of Eimeria were identified in the fecal samples, namely, in decreasing order of prevalence, E. crandallis, E. parva, E. granulosa, E. ovinoidalis, E. ahsata, E. ovina, E. faurei and E. intricata. Of the 191 fecal samples that contained Eimeria oocysts, only 32 (16.8%) were infected with a single species whereas 23 (12.0%) were infected with at least two species and 136 (71.2%) harbored three or more species. Although Eimeria coccidiosis is a complex disease owing to the mixed nature of the infective agents, an ongoing prevention program should be implemented to reduce production losses.
Phlebotomine fauna (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) in a residential area and in a fragment of savanna vegetation in the municipality of Pontal do Araguaia, Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: Amaral Adriane Fagundes da Silva , Varjão Jane Ramos , Silva Gerônimo Berto da , Arrais-Silva Wagner Welber
Published: January 2012

Identification of phlebotomine species in endemic areas is fundamental for analyzing the eco-epidemiological determinants of leishmaniasis. This study had the aim of investigating the phlebotomine fauna in an urban area and in a fragment of native savanna in the municipality of Pontal do Araguaia, State of Mato Grosso, Brazil, using CDC light traps. One hundred and twenty-three phlebotomine specimens belonging to seventeen different species were caught. Our results indicate synanthropic potential among vector species for leishmaniasis, such as the species Lutzomyia cruzi, L. sallesi and L. whitmani. The species L. cerradincola had never been recorded in this region, such that this is the first report of this species in the State of Mato Grosso.
Phlebotomine sand flies and canine infection in areas of human visceral leishmaniasis, Cuiabá, Mato Grosso
Authors: Mestre Gustavo Leandro da Cruz , Ribeiro Ana Lúcia Maria , Miyazaki Rosina Djunko , Rodrigues Jorge Senatore Vargas , Almeida Arleana do Bom Parto Ferreira de , Sousa Valéria Régia Franco , Missawa Nanci Akemi
Published: January 2012

Visceral leishmaniasis is a systemic infectious disease that can cause to a severe, potentially life-threatening chronic condition in humans. Risk factors for infection in urban areas have been associated with poor living conditions, the presence of sand fly vectors and infected pets. This study aimed to describe sand fly and canine infection in the neighborhoods of human visceral leishmaniasis occurrence in the city of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso State, central-western Brazil, reported between January 2005 and December 2006. A total of 1,909 sand flies were collected. They were predominantly males and the most frequent species were Lutzomyia cruzi (81.25%), Lutzomyia whitmani (13.88%) and Lutzomyia longipalpis (2.62%). The sand fly density was not significantly correlated with the variation of environmental factors. The prevalence of canine visceral leishmaniasis in the neighborhoods studied was 26.82% and it was found that areas with high density of vectors coincided with areas of high prevalence of dogs and those with the highest rates of human cases. The study of vectors and other potential hosts are essential for a good understanding of visceral leishmaniasis and the related public health concerns, aiming at the prevention and control of leishmaniasis in the city of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso State.
Editorial Vol.1(1)
Authors: Ara Rowshan
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bioethics.v1i1.9519 Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics 2010; 1(1):1
Introduction of bioethics and its necessity in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Arif , Lasker Shamima Parvin
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bioethics.v1i1.9520 Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics 2010; 1(1):2
Ethical Dilemma and Research Methodology of Social Sciences
Authors: Neaz Ahmad AN
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bioethics.v1i1.9529 Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics 2010; 1(1):7
Clinical Significance of Serum Biomarkers in Pediatric Solid Mediastinal and Abdominal Tumors
Authors: Sandoval John A. , Malkas Linda H. , Hickey Robert J.
Published: January 2012

Childhood cancer is the leading cause of death by disease among U.S. children between infancy and age 15. Despite successes in treating solid tumors such as Wilms tumor, disappointments in the outcomes of high-risk solid tumors like neuroblastoma have precipitated efforts towards the early and accurate detection of these malignancies. This review summarizes available solid tumor serum biomarkers with a special focus on mediastinal and abdominal cancers in children.
Editorial
Authors: Seale Jane , Haywood Jeff , Mogey Nora
Published: January 2012

A major focus of the research and practice in the field of Learning Technology is implementing and developing learning technologies in order to change or influence the student learning experience. We are all aware, however, that the process of developing or implementing learning technologies often requires adaptation or changes in staff roles and skills, in organizational culture and structures, in strategies and policies, in attitudes and perceptions as in well as the theories and models we use to explain and understand the learning and teaching experience. In this issue of ALT-J we present ten papers. On first reading these papers represent quite an eclectic mixture of subjects and methods: a closer inspection, however, reveals a common theme that runs through all the papers, that of change. Linked to this theme are notions of evolution, innovation and experimentation.DOI:10.1080/0968776020100101
Networking: a study in planning and developing cross-cultural collaboration
Authors: Singh Sanjeev , Dron Jon
Published: January 2012

This paper reports on a collaboration between the authors at the University of Brighton (UK) and the University of Delhi, South Campus. The collaboration came about as a result of the EU-India Cross-Cultural Innovation Network collaboration programme, a project involving several universities and organizations across Europe and India. The authors of this paper both lecture in the area of computer networking. Following meetings in Delhi, they agreed to work together to produce a Web-based networking resource to be generated by the students of both institutions. The first phase of development involved the mounting of Web-based tutorials and documents produced by the students. The second phase will centre on the development of a knowledge base generated by the interaction of the students within an asynchronous forum. Running alongside these phases will be a collaborative bookmarking system, a database in which the students will post URLs of Web-based resources that they find useful in their studies. This system incorporates a form of collaborative filtering, an evolutionary mechanism which seeks to embody the qualities that students value in resources to provide a dynamic set of ratings to assist in the selection of those of most use. The planning of such a system raises some unusual issues, not least in the process of collaboration itself, with concerns as diverse as technical compatibility, institutional and cultural differences, timezones and the reliability of email. Limited bandwidth between our institutions causes special problems with the interactive elements of the resource. We present the methods we are investigating to reduce the impact of this. The fact that the students share an intellectual discipline but are otherwise separated by a cultural and geographical divide is expected to lead to fruitful diversity in thinking and approaches to problem-solving.DOI:10.1080/0968776020100204