bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desafios da integralidade: revisitando as concepções sobre o papel do fisioterapeuta na equipe de Saúde da Família
Authors: Neves Laura Maria Tomazi , Aciole Giovanni Gurgel
Published: August 2011

A estratégia prioritária nacional na Saúde Coletiva é a Saúde da Família (PSF), no entanto, é incipiente a participação de outros profissionais de saúde na atenção primária, além da Medicina e Enfermagem. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma revisão sistemática da visão acadêmica do papel do fisioterapeuta na equipe de saúde da família (ESF). Foi realizada pesquisa bibliográfica no portal da Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS/Bireme/OPAS/OMS), de janeiro de 1994 a julho de 2009. A estratégia adotada foi o cruzamento dos seguintes descritores: Programa Saúde da Família, Saúde da Família, Saúde Coletiva, Saúde Pública, Fisioterapia (especialidades), Fisioterapia (técnicas), modalidades de fisioterapia. Dos 51 trabalhos localizados, 14 não estavam disponíveis. O restante foi analisado e sete foram selecionados por contemplarem os critérios de inclusão. Conclui-se que, apesar dos esforços, a fisioterapia ainda não possui uma definição clara em relação a sua atuação no PSF.
Síndrome de alienação parental: da teoria Norte-Americana à nova lei brasileira
Authors: Sousa Analícia Martins de , Brito Leila Maria Torraca de
Published: August 2011

A síndrome de alienação parental (SAP) foi definida, na década de 1980, pelo psiquiatra norteamericano Richard Gardner, como um distúrbio infantil que acometeria crianças e adolescentes envolvidos em situações de disputa de guarda entre os pais. Na visão do autor, a síndrome se desenvolve a partir de programação ou lavagem cerebral realizada por um genitor - nomeado como alienador - para que a criança rejeite o outro responsável. No Brasil, após rápida tramitação no Legislativo, foi sancionada, em agosto de 2010, lei sobre a alienação parental, que prevê sanções ao genitor que causar impedimentos à convivência do(s) filho(s) com o outro responsável. A nova lei traz determinações quanto à atuação de psicólogos no exame de supostos casos de alienação parental, destacando também os aspectos emocionais observados em tais situações. No presente artigo, tem-se como proposta examinar - à luz dos conhecimentos da Psicologia - os argumentos, ligados a essa área, que fundamentaram a exposição de motivos do projeto de lei sobre a alienação parental, explanando-se também as decisões judiciais proferidas em diferentes países que tomaram por base esse conceito.
Expansão e interiorização da Psicologia: reorganização dos saberes e poderes na atualidade
Authors: Macedo João Paulo , Dimenstein Magda
Published: August 2011

Esse artigo objetiva discutir o processo de expansão da categoria dos psicólogos observado nas últimas décadas nas cidades de pequeno e médio porte do País. Esse processo tem apontado uma interiorização da profissão por meio do deslocamento de um contingente expressivo de profissionais e de uma redefinição da Psicologia como área típica dos grandes centros urbanos e capitais nacionais, tal como foi historicamente caracterizada. Pretende-se destacar que tal processo se relaciona com a reestruturação urbana em curso no Brasil, através do novo dinamismo socioespacial das cidades brasileiras devido à reformulação de suas relações financeiras e comunicacionais, da consolidação das políticas de bem-estar social, através da implantação de inúmeros programas, projetos e serviços na área da saúde, saúde mental e assistência social, e da expansão dos cursos de graduação no interior do País, seja através dos programas e demais dispositivos de reforma e expansão das universidades públicas brasileiras, seja através da própria corrida das instituições privadas de ensino superior na busca de novos mercados. Por fim, busca-se problematizar tais movimentos e maquinações da categoria nos jogos de poder na atualidade.
Produção de imagens, subjetivação e trabalho penitenciário: uma contribuição às clínicas do trabalho
Authors: Amador Fernanda Spanier
Published: August 2011

Este artigo aborda aspectos desenvolvidos em nossa tese de doutorado. Seus temas centrais são imagem e subjetivação, que se desdobram em outros três, de forma transversa: trabalho, que ganha a cena como atividade, clínica, considerada por entre as formulações da clínica da atividade e dos procedimentos de crítica e clínica, e tecnologias digitais de imagem, em seus potenciais de estetização de si mesmo e do trabalho. Situada em uma casa destinada a mulheres que cumprem pena em regime semiaberto, a pesquisa teve como objetivo geral a criação de um campo de experimentação da atividade prisional pelo emprego de recursos tecnológicos de videografia digital junto a trabalhadoras agentes do sistema penitenciário. Exploramos as peculiaridades da atividade de produção de imagens sobre o trabalho prisional, o que caracteriza uma vertente metodológica em nosso percurso de pesquisa. Dedicamo-nos, ainda, a uma vertente teórica pela qual operamos um tensionamento conceitual visando a abrir veredas no que se refere à construção de possibilidades para uma clínica do trabalho valendo-nos das ferramentas analíticas da Filosofia da Diferença, da Ergologia e da Clínica da Atividade, enlaçando, assim, os planos dos fazeres profissionais, das tramas institucionais e da subjetivação.
Credibilidade, política monetária e racionamento de crédito
Authors: Montes Gabriel Caldas , Feijó Carmem Aparecida
Published: August 2011

Ao reconhecer a importância e as consequências da preferência pela liquidez dos bancos na criação e concessão do crédito, o trabalho analisa e discute uma instância particular e determinante da preferência pela liquidez: a de avaliação do custo de obtenção da informação pelos bancos. Este custo, quando analisado à luz da credibilidade da política monetária, afeta a preferência pela liquidez e, portanto, a disponibilidade de recursos para empréstimo para empresas não financeiras. O ponto de discussão, como também de contribuição do trabalho, está no argumento de que esse custo é aumentado quando a credibilidade da política monetária é baixa, afetando, por sua vez, o volume de riqueza e recursos próprios das empresas e a preferência pela liquidez dos bancos. Com base no modelo de Townsend (1979), apresentado de forma estilizada em Carlin e Soskyce (2006), o trabalho aborda o impacto da credibilidade sobre a condução da política monetária e, consequentemente, sobre o processo de concessão de crédito.
Governo Geisel: transição político-econômica? Um ensaio de revisão
Authors: Macarini José Pedro
Published: August 2011

Este artigo procura reconstituir os principais traços da política econômica durante o governo Geisel (1974-1978), concentrando-se no exame de dois desdobramentos de especial importância. O primeiro diz respeito à política macroeconômica voltada aos problemas conjunturais (inflação e balanço de pagamentos). Discute-se o grau de importância atribuído a essa faceta da política econômica bem como os resultados alcançados, distinguindo-se dois períodos marcados por ênfases distintas. O segundo desdobramento refere-se ao II PND, marca fundamental da política econômica do período: o artigo procura apresentar uma leitura crítica de alguns pontos controversos suscitados pela literatura dedicada ao tema.
O Brasil e a crise financeira global: avaliando os canais de transmissão nas contas externas
Authors: Prates Daniela Magalhães , Cunha André Moreira , Lélis Marcos Tadeu Caputi
Published: August 2011

Este trabalho analisa alguns dos impactos da crise financeira global em curso sobre as contas externas do Brasil. Seus mecanismos de transmissão, comerciais e financeiros, são examinados de forma detalhada, de modo a avaliar a potencial emergência de novas vulnerabilidades. Argumenta-se que o desempenho das contas externas depende da interação entre fatores exógenos, que têm sido predominantes, e a características estruturais da economia. Conclui-se com recomendações de política econômica.
Dialogia mãe-filho em contextos de depressão materna: revisão de literatura
Authors: Carlesso Janaína Pereira Pretto , Souza Ana Paula Ramos de
Published: August 2011

TEMA: o presente estudo analisou a produção científica dos últimos cinco anos sobre a depressão materna, em particular as repercussões da depressão na interação mãe-filho e as suas implicações para o desenvolvimento infantil. OBJETIVO: verificar as repercussões da depressão materna na interação mãe-filho, e examinar suas implicações para o desenvolvimento da criança, especialmente o de linguagem. CONCLUSÃO: a revisão de literatura realizada demonstra que a depressão materna afeta não só a mãe, mas também o desenvolvimento global do bebê. Os estudos apontaram que os efeitos da depressão materna podem resultar negativamente no desenvolvimento da criança, potencializando desordens lingüísticas, comportamentais, afetivas, cognitivas e sociais. Portanto, a depressão materna, em um determinado momento após o nascimento, pode interferir no estabelecimento do vínculo mãe-bebê e, por isso, deve ser tratada o mais precocemente possível.
Aquisição do sistema ortográfico: desempenho na expressão escrita e classificação dos erros ortográficos
Authors: Rosa Clarice Costa , Gomes Erissandra , Pedroso Fleming Salvador
Published: August 2011

OBJETIVO: analisar o desempenho na expressão escrita e classificar os erros da produção ortográfica que ocorrem durante as quatro primeiras séries do ensino fundamental, identificando os erros ortográficos mais freqüentes e descrevendo a evolução dos mesmos, comparando-os por série e gênero. MÉTODO: foi realizado um estudo transversal na população de alunos de 1ª a 4ª série de uma escola estadual do município de Porto Alegre. Foram avaliados 214 sujeitos por meio do ditado de palavras do subteste da escrita do Teste de Desempenho Escolar. RESULTADOS: foram observados maiores níveis de suficiência no domínio da expressão escrita nas séries iniciais; os sujeitos da 4ª série demonstraram dificuldade no domínio das regras de acentuação. Por meio da análise do ditado, constatou-se que os erros de representações múltiplas (14,76%) foram os mais freqüentes nesta população. Quando comparado os diferentes tipos de erros ortográficos verificados nas quatro séries em conjunto, observou-se que houve diferença significante entre as mesmas no decorrer das séries (P<0,05), exceto para os erros de junção-separação (P=0,09), confusão nas terminações am x ão (P=0,36) e confusão entre letras parecidas (P=0,27). Houve maior freqüência de erros ortográficos e menor domínio na expressão escrita para o gênero masculino, mas estatisticamente esta diferença não foi significante. CONCLUSÃO: os erros ortográficos tenderam a diminuir progressivamente com a escolaridade, entretanto o mesmo não ocorreu com o nível de suficiência no domínio da expressão escrita que envolve regras contextuais complexas.
Linguagem oral e escrita em adolescentes infratores institucionalizados
Authors: Destro Carla Maria Ariano , Souza Luiz Augusto de Paula
Published: August 2011

OBJETIVO: mapear e caracterizar a ocorrência de distúrbios de comunicação oral e/ou escrita em um grupo de jovens infratores institucionalizados, verificando possíveis impactos das dificuldades de linguagem e comunicação na vida social desses sujeitos. MÉTODO: estudo exploratório e descritivo, com 40 internos da Fundação Casa, entre 15 e 18 anos, da unidade UI 25 - Rio Negro, do complexo da cidade de Franco da Rocha - SP. Para a coleta de dados, foram aplicados o Teste do Mini-Exame do estado mental, com o objetivo de detectar eventuais alterações cognitivas; o Teste Montreal, que analisou habilidades simples de linguagem oral e escrita; e uma entrevista semi-estruturada, cujo roteiro versou sobre Saúde Geral, Trajetória Escolar, Trajetória Profissional e percepções sobre o comportamento infracional. RESULTADOS: verificou-se que a maior parte da população era alfabetizada e que não houve ocorrência de déficits cognitivos. Houve índice alto de abandono escolar, oriundo de dificuldades em acompanhar conteúdos escolares e se adaptar às regras e dinâmica escolar, o que indica impactos das dificuldades de linguagem, especialmente da linguagem escrita, em condição que, associadas a outros fatores, favoreceram os comportamentos infracionais. CONCLUSÃO: os jovens infratores apresentaram problemas para se desenvolver e se engajar a valores e normas sócio-culturais, como também escolares, o que impõe limites ao acesso e circulação discursiva desses sujeitos, restringindo os usos da linguagem, na condição de prática social ao desenvolvimento pessoal e da cidadania. Tais achados dão indícios, entre outros fatores, do impacto social que a precária escolarização e socialização dos jovens pode ajudar a acarretar. O estudo demonstra que a linguagem deve ser concebida como prática social, sobretudo, nas formas de expressão e de comunicação desses sujeitos.
Somatização na América Latina: uma revisão sobre a classificação de transtornos somatoformes, síndromes funcionais e sintomas sem explicação médica
Authors: Tófoli Luís Fernando , Andrade Laura Helena , Fortes Sandra
Published: August 2011

OBJETIVO: Os sintomas sem explicação médica são frequentes e estão associados a sofrimento mental em vários contextos. Estudos prévios apontam que as populações latino-americanas são propensas à somatização. Diante da reformulação da Classificação Internacional de Doenças para sua 11ª edição, as particularidades dos nativos desta região do mundo devem ser levadas em consideração. O objetivo deste estudo é prover informações sobre somatização na população latino-americana para a tomada de decisões quanto às categorias diagnósticas ligadas a sintomas sem explicação médica na Classificação Internacional de Doenças-11ª edição. MÉTODO: Revisão extensa da produção de 1995 a 2011 sobre somatização em populações de origem latino-americana. RESULTADOS: A análise dos 106 estudos incluídos nesta revisão foi dividida em 15 categorias: revisões sistemáticas, revisões conceituais, prevalências, atenção primária, depressão e ansiedade, fatores de risco, violência, quadros orgânicos, relacionamento com profissionais e o sistema de saúde, etnia, síndromes ligadas à cultura, síndrome da fadiga crônica, fibromialgia, transtorno dismórfico corporal, e conversão e dissociação. CONCLUSÃO: Os estudos latino-americanos confirmam a dificuldade na definição categorial de quadros com sintomas sem explicação médica. O suposto "traço somatizador" das culturas latinas pode estar associado mais à expressão cultural e linguística do que a um caráter de natureza étnica, e tais particularidades devem estar na agenda na nova classificação destes fenômenos na Classificação Internacional de Doenças-11ª edição.
Uma revisão dos estudos latino-americanos sobre o transtorno da compulsão alimentar periódica
Authors: Palavras Marly Amorim , Kaio Glauber Higa , Mari Jair de Jesus , Claudino Angélica Medeiros
Published: August 2011

OBJETIVO: Revisar o estado de arte da literatura latino-americana sobre o transtorno da compulsão alimentar periódica. MÉTODO: Foi feita uma busca sobre estudos realizados em países latino-americanos usando-se o termo "binge eating", nas seguintes bases eletrônicas: PubMed, LILACS, SciELO e PsycINFO. O critério de inclusão foi selecionar estudos desenvolvidos com amostras latino-americanas que preencheram critérios parciais ou completos do transtorno da compulsão alimentar periódica pelo Manual Diagnóstico e Estatístico de Transtornos Mentais-4ª Edição. RESULTADOS: Foram rastreados 8.123 artigos e 30 preencheram o critério de inclusão (18 estudos de corte transversal, cinco ensaios clínicos, quatro relatos de casos, dois estudos de validade, um estudo de coorte). A maioria dos estudos foi conduzida no Brasil (27), um na Argentina, um na Colômbia e um na Venezuela. A prevalência de transtorno da compulsão alimentar periódica em obesos em programas para perda de peso esteve entre 16% e 51,6%. A comparação entre obesos com e sem transtorno da compulsão alimentar periódica mostrou uma maior tendência para peso mais alto, oscilação ponderal, preocupação com peso e forma corporal e associação com comorbidades psiquiátricas naqueles com transtorno da compulsão alimentar periódica. CONCLUSÃO: O transtorno da compulsão alimentar periódica mostra-se um fenômeno verificável na América Latina com características clínicas semelhantes às encontradas na literatura internacional. Esta revisão fornece subsídios para que o transtorno da compulsão alimentar periódica seja considerado uma categoria distinta de transtorno alimentar na Classificação Internacional de Doenças-11ª Edição.
Determination of apramycin in oral soluble powder by a HPLC method using pre-column derivatization with o-phthalaldehyde and UV detection
Authors: Antunes Elisabete de Almeida Barbosa , Lourenço Felipe Rebello , Pinto Terezinha de Jesus Andreoli
Published: August 2011

A high-performance liquid chromatographic method employing pre-column derivatization with o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) and 2-mercaptoacetic acid was developed for the determination of apramycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic used in veterinary medicine, in the oral soluble powder form. The chromatographic separation was done by ion-pair HPLC using a C18 reversed-phase column, Synergy Hydro (150 mm x 4.6 mm x 4 µm) and mobile phase composed of 0.005 mol/L sodium octanosulfonate in a mixture of acetonitrile: water: acetic acid (45:55:2) (v/v/v) with a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min; the UV detector was operated at 332 nm. The developed method was validated according to official compendia guidelines, having demonstrated robustness, selectivity and linearity for the concentration range of 0.02 to 0.05 mg/mL, precision (with RSD < 2.0% both for intra and inter-day precision) accuracy (average recuperation of 99.33%) and detectivity (quantification and detection limits of 0.08 and 0.02 µg/mL, respectively). Three batches of commercial apramycin oral soluble powder were analyzed by both the proposed method and the official microbiological method, where all the results obtained were in the acceptable range (95% to 105% of labeled value of apramycin). Both methods were statistically compared by the t test, which yielded no significant differences (α = 0.05) thereby confirming the equivalence of the methods.
In vitro anticancer activity of microbial isolates from diverse habitats
Authors: Thomas Angel Treasa , Rao Josyula Venkata , Subrahmanyam Volety Mallikarjuna , Chandrashekhar Hariharapura Raghu , Maliyakkal Naseer , Kisan Tukaram Kedar , Joseph Alex , Udupa Nayanabhirama
Published: August 2011

Extracts from natural products, especially microorganisms, have served as a valuable source of diverse molecules in many drug discovery efforts and led to the discovery of several important drugs. Identification of microbial strains having promising biological activities and purifying the bio-molecules responsible for the activities, have led to the discovery of many bioactive molecules. Extracellular, as well as intracellular, extracts of the metabolites of thirty-six bacterial and twenty-four fungal isolates, grown under unusual conditions such as high temperature, high salt and low sugar concentrations, were in vitro tested for their cytotoxic potential on various cancer cell lines. The extracts were screened on HeLa and MCF-7 cell lines to study the cytotoxic potential. Nuclear staining and flow cytometric studies were carried out to assess the potential of the extracts in arresting the cell cycle. The crude ethylacetate extract of isolate F-21 showed promising results by MTT assay with IC50 as low as 20.37±0.36 µg/mL on HeLa, and 44.75±0.81 µg/mL on MCF-7 cells, comparable with Cisplatin. The isolate F-21 was identified as Aspergillus sp. Promising results were also obtained with B-2C and B-4E strains. Morphological studies, biochemical tests and preliminary chemical investigation of the extracts were also carried out.
Formulation and evaluation of xanthan gum based aceclofenac tablets for colon targeted drug delivery
Authors: Ramasamy Thiruganesh , Kandhasami Uma Devi Subbaih , Ruttala Himabindhu , Shanmugam Suresh
Published: August 2011

The objective of the present study is to develop a colon targeted drug delivery systems for Aceclofenac using xanthan gum as a carrier. In this study, multilayer coated system that is resistant to gastric and small intestinal conditions but can be easily degraded by colonic bacterial enzymes was designed to achieve effective colon delivery of Aceclofenac. The xanthan gum, the drug and the physical mixture were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). All the formulations were evaluated for hardness, drug content uniformity and other physical properties. Release aspects of Aceclofenac in simulated gastrointestinal fluid and colonic fluid with enzymes were investigated. From these results, Eudragit coated system exhibited gastric and small intestinal resistance to the release of Aceclofenac. The rapid increase in release of Aceclofenac in SCF was revealed as due to the degradation of the xanthan gum membrane by bacterial enzymes. The designed system could be used potentially as a carrier for colon delivery of Aceclofenac by regulating drug release in stomach and the small intestine.
Assessment of fibrosis and vascularization of bone marrow stroma of chronic myeloid Leukemia patients treated with imatinib mesylate and their relationship with the cytogenetic response
Authors: Jesus Caroline Regina de , I-Ching Lee , Neiva Teresinha de Jesus Carvalho , Vituri Cidônia de Lourdes
Published: August 2011

Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative disease characterized by the presence of the Philadelphia chromosome (translocation between chromosomes 9 and 22), resulting in the formation of the hybrid BCR-ABL protein. Currently, the treatment of CML patients is performed with imatinib mesylate (IM), which promotes the elimination of leukemic cells by inhibiting the kinase activity of BCR-ABL. This study evaluated the effectiveness of IM by monitoring 22 CML patients in a chronic phase treated at the CEPON/SC with IM for a minimum follow-up period of two years. Cytogenetic Response (CR) and bone marrow biopsies (BMB) were evaluated before and after IM treatment. BMB were evaluated by detection of reticulin degree and vascularization. The results were correlated to the CR. Mean time to achieve CR was 9 months and was attained by 77.27% of the patients. The results from the initial BMB analysis showed that 59.09% presented reticulin of between 2+ and 4+ whereas after treatment, only 27.17% presented this degree. With regard to vascularization of the initial sample, 90.91% were graded between II and IV, whereas after treatment, 40.91% had this degree. The results suggest a positive correlation of degree of reticulin and vascularization with CR.
Development studies of captopril certified reference material
Authors: Nogueira Raquel , Rego Eliane Cristina Pires do , Sousa Marcus Vinicius Barreto , Wollinger Wagner , Silva Thaís Elias da , Moreira Gabriela Fernandes , Barin Juliano Smanioto , Laporta Luciane Varini , Mesko Márcia Foster , Bittencourt Celso Figueiredo , Rodrigues Janaína Marques , Cunha Valnei Smarçaro da
Published: August 2011

This paper describes the studies performed with the candidate Certified Reference Material (CRM) of captopril, the first CRM of an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in Brazil, including determination of impurities (organic, inorganic and volatiles), homogeneity testing, short- and long-term stability studies, calculation of captopril content using the mass balance approach, and estimation of the associated measurement uncertainty.
Antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic effects of Dillenia indica (L.) leaves extract
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Kumar Vipin , Prakash Om
Published: August 2011

The present study was carried out to evaluate antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic effects of Dillenia indica methanolic leaves extracts in streptozotocin induced diabetic Wistar rats by administering graded oral doses (250 and 500 mg/kg body weight) for 21 days. The extract showed significant antidiabetic activity (p<0.001). Furthermore, the decreased body weight of rats was significantly improved after extract treatments. Daily oral treatment with the extract for 21 days to diabetic rats, also resulted in significant reduction in serum cholesterol, triglycerides and serum transaminase levels but HDL-cholesterol level was found to be improved (p<0.001) as compared to the diabetic control group. The extract treatment also showed to enhance serum insulin level in diabetic rats as compared to the diabetic control group. In conclusion, D. indica leaf extract might be useful for diabetes mellitus management and other abnormalities associated with this metabolic disorder.
Drug use by elderly inpatients of a philanthropic hospital
Authors: Santos Rômulo Moreira dos , Sette Ivana Maria Fechine , Belém Lindomar de Farias
Published: August 2011

The high incidence of chronic diseases in the elderly leads to increased intermittent drug therapies. The presence of concomitant diseases and prescriptions made out by various health professionals facilitate the practice of polypharmacy, the emergence of iatrogenic diseases, and therapeutic regimens that are inconvenient for patients. The present study was carried out among elderly patients hospitalized at the Hospital Care Foundation of Paraiba, Campina Grande, with the objectives of studying the consumption of drugs by these patients, noting the possible adverse drug reactions (ADR), drug interactions and the presence of high-risk drugs prescribed to this age group. The study had a descriptive and cross-sectional quantitative design and involved a sample of 65 patients accompanied by the Pharmacovigilance Centre of the hospital, from August 2009 to July 2010. Over 90% of the patients were on polypharmacy, and the possible ADR found were related to the gastrointestinal tract where the most frequent interactions were with cardiovascular drugs. Within the context of pharmacoepidemiology, pharmacists can contribute by improving the quality of life of patients and preventing unnecessary expense with erroneous and poorly evaluated treatments.
Invertase, glucose oxidase and catalase for converting sucrose to fructose and gluconic acid through batch and membrane-continuous reactors
Authors: Silva Aline Ramos da , Tomotani Ester Junko , Vitolo Michele
Published: August 2011

Conversion of sucrose into fructose and gluconic acid using invertase, glucose oxidase and catalase was studied by discontinuous (sequential or simultaneous addition of the enzymes) and continuous (simultaneous addition of the enzymes in a 100 kDa-ultrafiltration membrane reactor) processes. The following parameters were varied: concentration of enzymes, initial concentration of substrates (sucrose and glucose), pH, temperature and feeding rate (for continuous process). The highest yield of conversion (100%) was attained through the discontinuous (batch) process carried out at pH 4.5 and 37 ºC by the sequential addition of invertase (14.3 U), glucose oxidase (10,000 U) and catalase (59,000 U).
Traits, not origin, explain impacts of plants on larval amphibians
Authors: Cohen Jillian S. , Maerz John C. , Blossey Bernd
Published: August 2011

Managing habitats for the benefit of native fauna is a priority for many government and private agencies. Often, these agencies view nonnative plants as a threat to wildlife habitat, and they seek to control or eradicate nonnative plant populations. However, little is known about how nonnative plant invasions impact native fauna, and it is unclear whether managing these plants actually improves habitat quality for resident animals. Here, we compared the impacts of native and nonnative wetland plants on three species of native larval amphibians; we also examined whether plant traits explain the observed impacts. Specifically, we measured plant litter quality (carbon : nitrogen : phosphorus ratios, and percentages of lignin and soluble phenolics) and biomass, along with a suite of environmental conditions known to affect larval amphibians (hydroperiod, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and pH). Hydroperiod and plant traits, notably soluble phenolics, litter C:N ratio, and litter N:P ratio, impacted the likelihood that animals metamorphosed, the number of animals that metamorphosed, and the length of larval period. As hydroperiod decreased, the likelihood that amphibians achieved metamorphosis and the percentage of tadpoles that successfully metamorphosed also decreased. Increases in soluble phenolics, litter N:P ratio, and litter C:N ratio decreased the likelihood that tadpoles achieved metamorphosis, decreased the percentage of tadpoles metamorphosing, decreased metamorph production (total metamorph biomass), and increased the length of larval period. Interestingly, we found no difference in metamorphosis rates and length of larval period between habitats dominated by native and nonnative plants. Our findings have important implications for habitat management. We suggest that to improve habitats for native fauna, managers should focus on assembling a plant community with desirable traits rather than focusing only on plant origin.
Fostering 21st Century Skill Development by Engaging Students in Authentic Game Design Projects in a High School Computer Programming Class
Authors: Thomas Michael K. , Ge Xun , Greene Barbara A.
Published: August 2011

This study used technology-rich ethnography (TRE) to examine the use of game development in a high school computer programming class for the development of 21st century skills. High school students created games for elementary school students while obtaining formative feedback from their younger clients. Our experience suggests that in the teaching of computer science in high schools, the development of games that include common game features such as dynamic feedback systems, backstory, levels, cheats, and compelling graphics challenges students and engages them in learning. Incorporating real client feedback is also useful for improving their work and connecting it to the “real” world. This article reports findings from the second year of a research project with a high school computer programming class. The authors argue that such approaches that leverage video games, design, programming, authenticity, and cooperation mobilize multiple 21st century skills that must be nurtured among contemporary young people so that they may grow to be part of a productive citizenry.
Enhancing Learning through an Online Secondary School Educational Game
Authors: Kaufman David , Sauvé Louise , Renaud Lise
Published: August 2011

This article consists of four sections: (1) the problems associated with asthma in the province of Québec and across Canada; (2) the theoretical framework for the learning enhanced by our online educational game entitled Asthme: 1,2,3 … Respirez! ( Asthma: 1,2,3 … Breath!), created by adapting the popular board game Parcheesi, and intended for students in a senior secondary school health education program (14 to 18 years old); (3) the methods employed, including a description of the educational game, the quasi-experimental research protocol, the sample, the variables being studied, the measurement instruments, the pilot study, the procedures, and the data analysis; and (4) the results of the study and discussion of the results. The results of the paired t-tests showed significant improvements in a variety of cognitive skills after students played the game on laptops in their classrooms for 40–60 minutes. No differences were found between males and females. These results are encouraging for teachers who wish to use educational digital games in their classrooms.
Optimal Experience in Virtual Environments among College Level Developmental Readers
Authors: Burgess Melissa L. , Ice Phil
Published: August 2011

In this study, we examined optimal experience and the antecedents of flow as reported by college-level developmental reading students using Second Life, a multi-user virtual environment. In an educational context, Second Life provided a space for demonstrating 21st century skills including communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and creativity. The researchers in this study examined optimal experience or flow, in particular, toward discovering the extent to which participants reported a prolonged, focused concentration during reading activities within Second Life that either preceded or paralleled the aforementioned 21st century skills. Participants were 42 students enrolled in two developmental reading courses in the fall 2009 semester. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected and analyzed, yielding results that confirmed that optimal experience was attained and that further served as a catalyst toward demonstrated 21st century skills.
Navigating Massively Multiplayer Online Games: Evaluating 21st Century Skills for Learning within Virtual Environments
Authors: McCreery Michael P. , Schrader P. G. , Krach S. Kathleen
Published: August 2011

There is a substantial and growing interest in immersive virtual spaces as contexts for 21st century skills like problem solving, communication, and collaboration. However, little consideration has been given to the ways in which users become proficient in these environments or what types of target behaviors are associated with 21st century skills. As a result, this exploratory study ( n = 16) applied systematic direct observations to examine differences in expert and novice behaviors as they interact within the World of Warcraft (WoW). Trend analyses showed clear differences associated with the user's level of expertise. In addition, significant differences were found in variables associated with social and spatial attunement to WoW across three points in time. Based on these findings, researchers discuss implications associated with 21st century skills, broader educational applications of these findings, and future avenues for research.
Microwave Assisted Multi-Stage Countercurrent Extraction of Dihydromyricetin from Ampelopsis grossedentataa
Authors: Li Wei , Zheng Cheng , Zhao Jian , Ning Zhengxiang
Published: August 2011

A novel microwave assisted multi-stage countercurrent extraction (MAMCE) technique was developed for the extraction of dihydromyricetin from Chinese rattan tea, Ampelopsis grossedentata. The technique combined the advantages of microwave heating and dynamic multi-stage countercurrent extraction and achieved marked improvement in extraction efficiency over microwave assisted batch extraction. Analysis of dihydromyricetin concentrations in the solvent and matrix throughout the extraction process showed that by dividing the extraction into multiple stages and exchanging of solvents between stages, steady and substantial concentration gradients were established between the matrix and solvent, thus enabling the achievement of high extraction efficiency. The yield of dihydromyricetin was significantly affected by temperature, pH, solvent/material ratio and extraction time, and optimal extraction conditions were found to be 80-100°C, at acidic pH with a solvent/material ratio of 25-30 to 1 and extraction time of 5-10 min. With the high extraction efficiency and low usage of extraction solvent, MAMCE could prove to be a promising extraction technique which can be applied to the extraction of dihydromyricentin and other bioactive substances from natural materials.
Review of Chinese Environmental Risk Assessment Regulations and Case Studies
Authors: Meng Xiaojie , Zhang Yan , Zhao Yuchao , Lou In Chio , Gao Jixi
Published: August 2011

Environmental risk assessment is an essential step in the development of solutions for pollution problems and new environmental regulations. An assessment system for environmental risks has been developed in China in recent decades. However, many of the Chinese technical guidelines, standards, and regulations were directly adapted from those of developed countries, and were not based on the Chinese environmental and socioeconomic context. Although existing environmental regulations for pollutants are usually obtained by extrapolations from high-dose toxicological data to low-dose scenarios using linear-non-threshold (LNT) models, toxicologists have argued that J-shaped or inverse J-shaped curves may dominate the dose–response relationships for environmental pollutants at low doses because low exposures stimulate biological protective mechanisms that are ineffective at higher doses. The costs of regulations based on LNT and J-shaped models could therefore be dramatically different. Since economic factors strongly affect the decision-making process, particularly for developing countries, it is time to strengthen basic research to provide more scientific support for Chinese environmental regulations. In this paper, we summarize current Chinese environmental policies and standards and the application of environmental risk assessment in China, and recommend a more scientific approach to the development of Chinese regulations.
Impaired Glucose Tolerance in the Absence of Adenosine A1 Receptor Signaling
Authors: Faulhaber-Walter Robert , Jou William , Mizel Diane , Li Lingli , Zhang Jiandi , Kim Soo Mi , Huang Yuning , Chen Min , Briggs Josephine P. , Gavrilova Oksana , Schnermann Jurgen B.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE

The role of adenosine (ADO) in the regulation of glucose homeostasis is not clear. In the current study, we used A1-ADO receptor (A1AR)-deficient mice to investigate the role of ADO/A1AR signaling for glucose homeostasis.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

After weaning, A1AR−/− and wild-type mice received either a standard diet (12 kcal% fat) or high-fat diet (HFD; 45 kcal% fat). Body weight, fasting plasma glucose, plasma insulin, and intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests were performed in 8-week-old mice and again after 12–20 weeks of subsequent observation. Body composition was quantified by magnetic resonance imaging and epididymal fat-pad weights. Glucose metabolism was investigated by hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp studies. To describe pathophysiological mechanisms, adipokines and Akt phosphorylation were measured.

RESULTS

A1AR −/− mice were significantly heavier than wild-type mice because of an increased fat mass. Fasting plasma glucose and insulin were significantly higher in A1AR−/− mice after weaning and remained higher in adulthood. An intraperitoneal glucose challenge disclosed a significantly slower glucose clearance in A1AR−/− mice. An HFD enhanced this phenotype in A1AR−/− mice and unmasked a dysfunctional insulin secretory mechanism. Insulin sensitivity was significantly impaired in A1AR−/− mice on the standard diet shortly after weaning. Clamp studies detected a significant decrease of net glucose uptake in A1AR−/− mice and a reduced glucose uptake in muscle and white adipose tissue. Effects were not triggered by leptin deficiency but involved a decreased Akt phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS

ADO/A1AR signaling contributes importantly to insulin-controlled glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity in C57BL/6 mice and is involved in the metabolic regulation of adipose tissue.
Curing Efficiency of Three Different Curing Modes at Different Distances for Four Composites
Authors: Zhu S , Platt J
Published: August 2011

Clinical Relevance

Doubling the exposure time of a high-intensity light-emitting diode curing light with a turbo tip and autofocus capability does not predictably compensate for distance in deep cavities.
Evaluation of Light Intensity Output of QTH and LED Curing Devices in Various Governmental Health Institutions
Authors: Al Shaafi MM , Maawadh AM , Al Qahtani MQ
Published: August 2011

Clinical Relevance

Evaluating the intensity of a light curing unit regularly prior to the application of tooth-colored restorative materials is essential to assure the quality of restorative procedures.
Effects of Auxiliary Fiber Posts on Endodontically Treated Teeth With Flared Canals
Authors: Li Q , Xu B , Wang Y , Cai Y
Published: August 2011

Clinical Relevance

Macro-Lock post combined with auxiliary fiber posts could increase the fracture resistance of endodontically treated roots with over-flared canals. However, an effect of the auxiliary fibers on retention strength was not observed.
A Technical Report on Repair of Amalgam-dentin Complex
Authors: Özcan M , Salihoğlu-Yener E
Published: August 2011

This clinical report describes a repair protocol for cusp fracture of a failed amalgam-dentin complex. A maxillary right first premolar with an amalgam restoration presented a buccal cusp fracture. Chairside repair has been undertaken by conditioning the existing amalgam restoration with silica coating (30 μm CoJet®-Sand), phosphoric acid etching the beveled enamel surface, priming dentin, and application of a bonding agent on both enamel and dentin. Thereafter, the amalgam was silanized (ESPE®-Sil), and opaque resin was applied and polymerized to mask the amalgam. The fractured buccal cusp was modeled using resin composite (Clearfil Photo Posterior) and photo-polymerized. Finally, the amalgam was refinished and refurbished and the composite was finished and polished.
Effect of Dentin-cleaning Techniques on the Shear Bond Strength of Self-adhesive Resin Luting Cement to Dentin
Authors: Santos MJMC , Bapoo H , Rizkalla AS , Santos GC
Published: August 2011

Objective

This in vitro study evaluated the influence of different cleansing techniques on the bond strength of self-adhesive cement to dentin.

Methods and Materials

A total of 33 noncarious human molars were sectioned mesiodistally and embedded in chemically cured resin with the buccal or lingual surfaces facing upward. Superficial dentin was exposed and resin disk provisional restorations were cemented to the dentin surfaces with noneugenol provisional cement and were stored in distilled water at 37°C. After seven days, the provisional restorations were removed and 13 specimens were randomly assigned to each of the five groups (n=13), according to the following cleansing treatments: G1—excavator (control); G2—0.12% chlorhexidine digluconate; G3—40% polyacrylic acid; G4—mixture of flour pumice and water; and G5—sandblasting with 50 μm aluminum oxide particles at a pressure of 87 psi. Resin composite disks (Filtek Supreme Plus, 3M ESPE Dental Products, St Paul, MN, USA) 4.7 (±0.1) mm in diameter and 3.0 (±0.5) mm in height were cemented with self-adhesive cement (RelyX Unicem, 3M ESPE), photocured, and stored in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours. Shear bond strength testing was conducted using a universal test machine at a crosshead speed of 0.5 mm/min until failure.

Results

Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Tukey-B rank order test. Sandblasting with aluminum oxide (11.32 ± 1.70 MPa) produced significantly higher shear bond strength values compared with any other treatment groups (p<0.05). No significant differences were found between G1-control (7.74 ± 1.72 MPa), G2-chlorhexidine (6.37 ± 1.47 MPa), and G4-pumice (7.33 ± 2.85 MPa) (p<0.05).
Influence of shiitake mushroom Lentinula edodes on reproduction of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Svilpe Elīna , Matjuškova Nataļja
Published: August 2011

Influence of shiitake mushroomLentinula edodeson reproduction ofDrosophila melanogaster

Shiitake mushroomLentinula edodesis an edible basidiomycete cultivated worldwide, with high nutritious value and diverse biological activity. There has been an increase in its use as food supplement. Influence of shiitake mushroom extract on the reproductive function and development in an object fruit flyDrosophila melanogasteris described in this research. Fruit flies were maintained on banana medium with or without supplementation of shiitake mushroom's extract, standardized per amount of crude polysaccharides. Shiitake extract supplement, 0.030% and 0.015% crude polysaccharides per volume, induced a statistically significant increase in total number of pupae and flies, and promoted pupae viability. Adult drosophilae males, which received shiitake extract supplement for seven days, had a statistically significant reduction in copulation latency, while thirty day exposure to extract promoted a statistically higher rate of mated flies. Females showed an increase in number of mated flies and reduction in copulation latency post seven day feeding period and had no significant effect on mating ability and fertility post thirty days. Further studies are planned to identify the biologically active components of shiitake mushroom hot water extract and to characterize their effects on reproductive function.
Modifications of nitric oxide production in rat tissues by ellagic acid, ipriflavone and resveratrol: a comparative study
Authors: Dzintare Maija , Baumane Larisa , Meirena Dainuvīte , Šaripova Jeļena , Ļauberte Lāsma , Kalviņš Ivars , Sjakste Nikolajs
Published: August 2011

Modifications of nitric oxide production in rat tissues by ellagic acid, ipriflavone and resveratrol: a comparative study

When administered as drugs or consumed as food components, polyphenolic compounds synthesised in plants interfere with intracellular signal transduction pathways, including pathways of nitric oxide (NO) synthase (NOS) expression. However, the effects of these compounds in vivo do not always correlate with NOS-inhibiting activities, as revealed in experiments with cultured cells. The goal of this work was to compare the effects of resveratrol, ellagic acid and ipriflavone on NO production in rat organs measured by means of ESR spectroscopy. All of the above compounds are known as inhibitors of iNOS expression. The presumed ability to decrease NO production was manifested only by ellagic acid; it decreased NO production in spleen of intact rats. Iproflavone and resveratrol even enhanced the lipopolyssacharides (LPS)-induced increase of NO production. Ipriflavone increased NO production in the brain cortex, cerebellum, liver, heart, kidneys, blood, lungs and skeletal muscles. Resveratrol produced a similar effect in all of the above organs, except kidneys, lungs and muscles. Taken together, our results suggest that modifications of NO level in tissues by a natural compound cannot be predicted from data about its effects on NOS expression or activity. This stresses the importance of direct measurements of NO in tissues.
Electrophoretic pattern of the polypeptide component in the tight DNA-protein complexes in rat and chicken tissues and its partial characterisation in rat liver
Authors: Legzdiņš Normunds , Labeikytė Danute , Sjakste Nikolajs
Published: August 2011

Electrophoretic pattern of the polypeptide component in the tight DNA-protein complexes in rat and chicken tissues and its partial characterisation in rat liver

Tightly bound to DNA proteins (TBP) are a protein group that remain attached to DNA with covalent or non-covalent bonds after its deproteinisation. The distribution of TBP in genes reflects the type of cell differentiation. It has been hypothesised that TBP binding is involved in regulation of gene expression. Early studies reported uniformity of the TBPs from different sources. Later it was shown that TBPs obtained from DNA, isolated in mild conditions from evolutionary distant species, are different. Application of chloroform DNA extraction without use of externally added enzymes enabled us to reveal differences in the TBP spectrum in plant organs and changes of this spectrum in the course of plant development. The goal of this work was to study the electrophoretic pattern of the polypeptide component in the tight DNA-protein complexes in organs of animals: a mammal (rat) and a bird (chicken). Rat thymus TBPs were represented by 70 and 60 kDa proteins, and the same polypeptides were observed also in brain and skeletal muscles. Kidney TBPs were represented by 85, 70, 65, 60 and 37 kDa polypeptides; 85, 77, 70, 60, 50 and 37 kDa TBPs were characteristic of liver. Numerous minor peptides were observed in all samples studied. The spectrum of chicken liver and blood TBPs differed in distribution of proteins of 25-35 kDa. Mass-spectrometry of 14 bands from rat liver TBP gel revealed 43 different proteins. Chromatin modifying proteins and repair enzymes, transcription factors, serpins, ATPase, kinases and enzymes of ubiquitin-proteasome pathway were found among the TBPs. Thus, TBPs appear to be a vast protein group involved in several intranuclear processes. It is hypothesised that numerous functions ascribed to the nuclear matrix are performed in the TBP complexes.