bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathways and mechanisms in adolescence contribute to adult health inequalities
Authors: Due Pernille , Krølner Rikke , Rasmussen Mette , Andersen Anette , Trab Damsgaard Mogens , Graham Hilary , Holstein Bjørn E.
Published: March 2011

Aims: This paper presents a model that encompasses pathways and mechanisms working over adolescence that contribute to adult health inequalities. We review evidence on the four mechanisms: socially differential exposure, tracking, socially differential tracking, and socially differential vulnerability. Methods: We conducted literature searches in English-language peer-reviewed journals using PubMed (from 1966 to May 2009) and PsycINFO, and combined these with hand-searches of reference lists, journals, and authors of particular relevance. Results: Most health indicators are socially patterned in adolescence and track into adulthood, with higher risks of adverse outcomes among individuals from lower socioeconomic positions. Adolescent health behaviours track into adulthood. Smoking, physical activity, and especially fruit and vegetable intake are socially patterned, while evidence for social patterning of alcohol use is less consistent. Relational dimensions like lone parenthood and bullying are socially patterned and track over time, and there are indications of a socially differential vulnerability to the effects of these types of relational strain. Very little research has investigated the social patterning of the above indicators over time or studied social vulnerability of these indicators from adolescence to adulthood. However, all four mechanisms seem to be active in establishing social differences in adult educational attainment. Conclusions: We find the Adolescent Pathway Model useful for providing an overview of what elements and mechanisms in adolescence may be of special importance for adult health inequalities. There is a lack of knowledge of how social patterns of health, health behaviours, and social relations in adolescence transfer into adulthood and to what extent they reflect themselves in adult health.
Trajectories of Ezekiel: Part 1
Authors: Olley John W.
Published: March 2011

The story of the book of Ezekiel does not end with a reasonably fixed form sometime around the exile or soon after. Our access to the book derives from later manuscripts, both in Hebrew and in translations. The differences among these can illumine the journey of the text as it is used by various communities. The present article explores the variety of textual resources and studies, both Hebrew and Greek, and the significance of their differences. A second article will explore ways in which the book and its imagery have influenced other works.
Preventing Weight Gain Among Coeds: The Need for Web-Based and Tailored Approaches
Authors: Stabile Morrell Jesse
Published: March 2011

College students experience numerous challenges as they assume novel responsibilities and choices associated with residing on campus. Although the transition away from home and parents is associated with weight gain, sedentary behavior, and less-nutritious diets, few obesity prevention studies have targeted college adults. Because of their familiarity with the Internet, college-age adults (18-24) may be more receptive to web-based interventions as compared to traditional approaches. Furthermore, personalized interventions are likely to be more effective than generalized health and diet information if they are tailored to a student’s level of interest to make lifestyle changes. Research is needed to explore the efficacy of applying digital technologies to tailored weight loss/weight gain prevention programs among our society’s youngest adults.
Effects of carvedilol on oxygen uptake and heart rate kinetics in patients with chronic heart failure at simulated altitude
Authors: Karsten Marlus , Contini Mauro , Cefalù Claudia , Cattadori Gaia , Palermo Pietro , Apostolo Anna , Bussotti Maurizio , Magrì Damiano , Salvioni Elisabetta , Farina Stefania , Sciomer Susanna , Catai Aparecida Maria , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: March 2011

Background: The response to moderate exercise at altitude in heart failure (HF) is unknown.

Methods and results: We evaluated 30 HF patients, (NYHA I-III, 25 M/5 F; 59 ± 10 years; LVEF = 39.6 ± 7.1%), in stable clinical conditions, treated with carvedilol at the maximal tolerated dose. We performed a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) with ramp protocol at sea level to evaluate patients’ performance and two moderate intensity constant workload CPETs (50% of peak workload) at sea level (normoxia) and simulated altitude (hypoxia). Oxygen uptake ([Formula: see text]) and heart rate (HR) on-kinetics at constant workload were assessed calculating the time constant (τ) with a monoexponential equation. [Formula: see text] and HR were higher in hypoxia (0.944 ± 0.233 vs 1.031 ± 0.264 l/min; 100 ± 23 vs 108 ± 22 bpm; p < 0.001). On-kinetics showed a different behavior of τ being [Formula: see text] faster in hypoxia (67.1 ± 23.0 vs. 56.3 ± 19.7 s; p = 0.026) and HR faster in normoxia (49.3 ± 19.4 vs. 62.2 ± 22.5 s; p = 0.018). Ten patients, who lowered oxygen kinetics in hypoxia, had greater HR increase during maximal CPET suggesting lower functional betablockade. The higher τ of [Formula: see text] in hypoxia is likely to be due to a peripheral effect of carvedilol mediated either by β- or α-receptor.

Conclusion: HF patients performing moderate exercise at 2000 m simulated altitude have 20% [Formula: see text] increase without trouble at the beginning of exercise when treated with carvedilol.
A novel calcium-binding site of von Willebrand factor A2 domain regulates its cleavage by ADAMTS13
Authors: Zhou Minyun , Dong Xianchi , Baldauf Carsten , Chen Hua , Zhou Yanfeng , Springer Timothy A. , Luo Xinping , Zhong Chen , Gräter Frauke , Ding Jianping
Published: March 2011

The proteolysis of VWF by ADAMTS13 is an essential step in the regulation of its hemostatic and thrombogenic potential. The cleavage occurs at strand β4 in the structural core of the A2 domain of VWF, so unfolding of the A2 domain is a prerequisite for cleavage. In the present study, we present the crystal structure of an engineered A2 domain that exhibits a significant difference in the α3-β4 loop compared with the previously reported structure of wild-type A2. Intriguingly, a metal ion was detected at a site formed mainly by the C-terminal region of the α3-β4 loop that was later identified as Ca2+ after various biophysical and biochemical studies. Force-probe molecular dynamic simulations of a modeled structure of the wild-type A2 featuring the discovered Ca2+-binding site revealed that an increase in force was needed to unfold strand β4 when Ca2+ was bound. Cleavage assays consistently demonstrated that Ca2+ binding stabilized the A2 domain and impeded its unfolding, and consequently protected it from cleavage by ADAMTS13. We have revealed a novel Ca2+-binding site at the A2 domain of VWF and demonstrated a relationship between Ca2+ and force in the regulation of VWF and primary hemostasis.
Widespread, focal copy number variations (CNV) and whole chromosome aneuploidies in Trypanosoma cruzi strains revealed by array comparative genomic hybridization
Authors: Minning Todd A , Weatherly D Brent , Flibotte Stephane , Tarleton Rick L
Published: March 2011

Background

Trypanosoma cruzi is a protozoan parasite and the etiologic agent of Chagas disease, an important public health problem in Latin America. T. cruzi is diploid, almost exclusively asexual, and displays an extraordinarily diverse population structure both genetically and phenotypically. Yet, to date the genotypic diversity of T. cruzi and its relationship, if any, to biological diversity have not been studied at the whole genome level.

Results

In this study, we used whole genome oligonucleotide tiling arrays to compare gene content in biologically disparate T. cruzi strains by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). We observed that T. cruzi strains display widespread and focal copy number variations (CNV) and a substantially greater level of diversity than can be adequately defined by the current genetic typing methods. As expected, CNV were particularly frequent in gene family-rich regions containing mucins and trans-sialidases but were also evident in core genes. Gene groups that showed little variation in copy numbers among the strains tested included those encoding protein kinases and ribosomal proteins, suggesting these loci were less permissive to CNV. Moreover, frequent variation in chromosome copy numbers were observed, and chromosome-specific CNV signatures were shared by genetically divergent T. cruzi strains.

Conclusions

The large number of CNV, over 4,000, reported here uphold at a whole genome level the long held paradigm of extraordinary genome plasticity among T. cruzi strains. Moreover, the fact that these heritable markers do not parse T. cruzi strains along the same lines as traditional typing methods is strongly suggestive of genetic exchange playing a major role in T. cruzi population structure and biology.
Controlled meal frequency without caloric restriction alters peripheral blood mononuclear cell cytokine production
Authors: Dixit Vishwa Deep , Yang Hyunwon , Sayeed Khaleel S , Stote Kim S , Rumpler William V , Baer David J , Longo Dan L , Mattson Mark P , Taub Dennis D
Published: March 2011

Background

Intermittent fasting (IF) improves healthy lifespan in animals by a mechanism involving reduced oxidative damage and increased resistance to stress. However, no studies have evaluated the impact of controlled meal frequency on immune responses in human subjects.

Objective

A study was conducted to establish the effects of controlled diets with different meal frequencies, but similar daily energy intakes, on cytokine production in healthy male and female subjects.

Design

In a crossover study design with an intervening washout period, healthy normal weight middle-age male and female subjects (n = 15) were maintained for 2 months on controlled on-site one meal per day (OMD) or three meals per day (TMD) isocaloric diets. Serum samples and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) culture supernatants from subjects were analyzed for the presence of inflammatory markers using a multiplex assay.

Results

There were no significant differences in the inflammatory markers in the serum of subjects on the OMD or TMD diets. There was an increase in the capacity of PBMCs to produce cytokines in subjects during the first month on the OMD or TMD diets.

Lower levels of TNF-α, IL-17, MCP-1 and MIP-1β were produced by PBMCs from subjects on the OMD versus TMD diet.

Conclusions

PBMCs of subjects on controlled diets exhibit hypersensitivities to cellular stimulation suggesting that stress associated with altered eating behavior might affect cytokine production by immune cells upon stimulation. Moreover, stimulated PBMCs derived from healthy individuals on a reduced meal frequency diet respond with a reduced capability to produce cytokines.
MicroRNA array and microarray evaluation of endometrial receptivity in patients with high serum progesterone levels on the day of hCG administration
Authors: Li Rong , Qiao Jie , Wang Lina , Li Li , Zhen Xiumei , Liu Ping , Zheng Xiaoying
Published: March 2011

Background

To determine the effect of higher progesterone (P) level on endometrial receptivity.

Methods

This was a prospective analysis conducted in the Reproductive Medical Center of Peking University Third Hospital. All patients received IVF treatment and canceled embryo transfer in the same cycle and were divided into group 1 (normal P; 7 patients) and group 2 (elevated P; 12 patients). Endometrial biopsies were performed 6 days after oocyte retrieval. The global miRNA and mRNA gene expressions in endometrial biopsies were investigated with a V4.0 miRNA probe and 22 K Human Genome Array. Fold ratios were derived to compare gene regulation between the groups. Spp1 and Ang gene expression was selected to verify the array results by RT-PCR and the protein expression of osteopontin and VEGF was determined using an immunohistochemical method.

Results

There were 4 miRNA (all down-regulated) and 22 mRNA (13 up-regulated and 9 down-regulated) exhibiting differential expression between the groups on the microRNA and microarray chips. miRNA-451, Spp1, and Ang expression in RT-PCR verified the array results. Osteopontin and VEGF were also shown to have positive expression in the endometrium.

Conclusions

Data from microRNA and microarray analysis suggests dissimilar endometrial receptivity in patients with high P levels on the day of hCG, and elevated osteopontin and decreased VEGF had poor pregnancy rates.
Differential Expression of MicroRNAs in Mouse Pain Models
Authors: Kusuda Ricardo , Cadetti Flaviane , Ravanelli Maria I , Sousa Thais A , Zanon Sônia , De Lucca Fernando L , Lucas Guilherme
Published: March 2011

Background:

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that inhibit translation of target genes by binding to their mRNAs. The expression of numerous brain-specific miRNAs with a high degree of temporal and spatial specificity suggests that miRNAs play an important role in gene regulation in health and disease. Here we investigate the time course gene expression profile of miR-1, −16, and −206 in mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG), and spinal cord dorsal horn under inflammatory and neuropathic pain conditions as well as following acute noxious stimulation.

Results:

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analyses showed that the mature form of miR-1, −16 and −206, is expressed in DRG and the dorsal horn of the spinal cord. Moreover, CFA-induced inflammation significantly reduced miRs-1 and −16 expression in DRG whereas miR-206 was downregulated in a time dependent manner. Conversely, in the spinal dorsal horn all three miRNAs monitored were upregulated. After sciatic nerve partial ligation, miR-1 and −206 were downregulated in DRG with no change in the spinal dorsal horn. On the other hand, axotomy increases the relative expression of miR-1, −16, and 206 in a time-dependent fashion while in the dorsal horn there was a significant downregulation of miR-1. Acute noxious stimulation with capsaicin also increased the expression of miR-1 and −16 in DRG cells but, on the other hand, in the spinal dorsal horn only a high dose of capsaicin was able to downregulate miR-206 expression.

Conclusions:

Our results indicate that miRNAs may participate in the regulatory mechanisms of genes associated with the pathophysiology of chronic pain as well as the nociceptive processing following acute noxious stimulation. We found substantial evidence that miRNAs are differentially regulated in DRG and the dorsal horn of the spinal cord under different pain states. Therefore, miRNA expression in the nociceptive system shows not only temporal and spatial specificity but is also stimulus-dependent.
EGFR and COX-2 protein expression in non-small cell lung cancer and the correlation with clinical features
Authors: Li Feng , Liu Yongmei , Chen Huijiao , Liao Dianying , Shen Yali , Xu Feng , Wang Jin
Published: March 2011

Background

To evaluate the expression of EGFR and COX-2 and their correlation with prognosis in NSCLC

Methods

The paraffin embedded tumor samples of 50 NSCLC patients receiving radical resection were analyzed immunohistochemically for EGFR and COX-2 expression and their prognostic values were explored.

Results

The positive rate of EGFR protein in NSCLC tumor cells was 46%, which was significantly higher than its expression in normal lung (p = 0.0234) and paracancerous tissues (p = 0.020). EGFR expression was significantly higher in nodal positive than in nodal negative patients (p = 0.04). The mean survival time for EGFR positive patients (31 months) was significantly lower than that for patients with EGFR negative expression (48 months) (p = 0.008,). In patients receiving post-operation thoracic irradiation, the mean survival time for EGFR positive patients was significantly lower than that for patients without EGFR positive expression (25 vs. 48 months, P = 0.004). The positive rate of COX-2 protein expression in NSCLC tumor cells was 90%, which was significantly higher than that in normal tissue(p = 0.00) and paracancerous tissue (p = 0.00). There was no correlation between COX-2 expression and patient survival, and no correlation between COX-2 and EGFR protein expression (P = 0.555).

Conclusions

COX-2 and EGFR are over-expressed in NSCLC. EGFR is an independent prognostic factor and a predictive factor for radiotherapy response in NSCLC.
Hypothermia does not increase the risk of infection: a case control study
Authors: Kamps Marlijn , Bisschops Laurens LA , van der Hoeven Johannes G , Hoedemaekers Cornelia WE
Published: March 2011

Introduction

Hypothermia may improve outcome in patients after traumatic brain injury, especially when hypothermia is maintained for more than 48 hours. In the acute phase, patients with severe brain injury are more vulnerable to infections. Prolonged hypothermic treatment may further enhance the risk of infection. Selective decontamination of the digestive tract (SDD) reduces the risk of respiratory tract infections. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of infections in patients treated with hypothermia and normothermia while receiving SDD.

Methods

In this retrospective case control study 35 patients treated with prolonged hypothermia (cases) were identified and 169 patients with severe brain injury were included (controls). Propensity score matching was performed to correct for differences in baseline characteristics and clinical parameters. Primary outcome was the incidence of infection. The secondary endpoints were the micro-organisms found in the surveillance cultures and infection. In addition, a number of clinical characteristics were assessed.

Results

The demographic and clinical data indicated that the cases and controls were well matched. The overall risk of infection during ICU stay was 20% in the hypothermia groups versus 34.4% in the normothermia group (P = 0.388). Pneumonia was diagnosed in 11.4% of patients in both groups (P = 1.000). The incidence of meningitis, wound infection, bacteremia, and urinary tract infection was low and comparable between the groups. SDD surveillance cultures indicated a higher colonization with gram-negative bacteria in the rectal samples of the hypothermia patients.

Conclusions

Hypothermia does not increase the risk of infection in patients treated with SDD.
Signal-to-noise estimates of time-reverse images
Authors: Witten Ben , Artman Brad
Published: March 2011

Locating subsurface sources from passive seismic recordings is difficult when attempted with data that have no observable arrivals and/or a low signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). Energy can be focused at its source using time-reversal techniques. However, when a focus cannot be matched to a particular event, it can be difficult to distinguish true focusing from artifacts. Artificial focusing can arise from numerous causes, including noise contamination, acquisition geometry, and velocity model effects. We present a method that reduces the ambiguity of the results by creating an estimate of the (S/N) in the image domain and defining a statistical confidence threshold for features in the images. To do so, time-reverse imaging techniques are implemented on both recorded data and a noise model. In the data domain, the noise model approximates the energy of local noise sources. After imaging, the result also captures the effects of acquisition geometry and the velocity model. The signal image is then divided by the noise image to produce an estimate of the (S/N). The distribution of image (S/N) values due to purely stochastic noise provides a means by which to calculate a confidence threshold. This threshold is used to set the minimum displayed value of images to a statistically significant limit. Two-dimensional synthetic examples show the effectiveness of this technique under varying amounts of noise and despite challenging velocity models. Using this method, we collocate anomalous low-frequency energy content, measured over oil reservoirs in Africa and Europe, with the subsurface location of the productive intervals through 2D and 3D implementations.
Processing gravity gradient data
Authors: Barnes Gary , Lumley John
Published: March 2011

As the demand for high-resolution gravity gradient data increases and surveys are undertaken over larger areas, new challenges for data processing have emerged. In the case of full-tensor gradiometry, the processor is faced with multiple derivative measurements of the gravity field with useful signal content down to a few hundred meters’ wavelength. Ideally, all measurement data should be processed together in a joint scheme to exploit the fact that all components derive from a common source. We have investigated two methods used in commercial practice to process airborne full-tensor gravity gradient data; the methods result in enhanced, noise-reduced estimates of the tensor. The first is based around Fourier operators that perform integration and differentiation in the spatial frequency domain. By transforming the tensor measurements to a common component, the data can be combined in a way that reduces noise. The second method is based on the equivalent-source technique, where all measurements are inverted into a single density distribution. This technique incorporates a model that accommodates low-order drift in the measurements, thereby making the inversion less susceptible to correlated time-domain noise. A leveling stage is therefore not required in processing. In our work, using data generated from a geologic model along with noise and survey patterns taken from a real survey, we have analyzed the difference between the processed data and the known signal to show that, when considering the Gzz component, the modified equivalent-source processing method can reduce the noise level by a factor of 2.4. The technique has proven useful for processing data from airborne gradiometer surveys over mountainous terrain where the flight lines tend to be flown at vastly differing heights.
When Microbubble–Polyelectrolyte Complexes Overcharge: A Comparative Study Using Electrophoresis
Authors: Frusawa Hiroshi , Inoue Masaichi
Published: March 2011

We observed the charge reversal of microbubble–polyelectrolyte complexes using microscopic electrophoresis. The measured mobility of microbubbles with the addition of cationic poly(allylamine hydrochloride) exhibited unusual behaviors. The critical concentration of polyelectrolytes added for the charge reversal was not only weakly dependent on chain length but was also much larger than that of colloidal silica–polyelectrolyte complexes. We attribute the nonstoichiometric overcharging to the adsorption–desorption kinetics of hydroxy ions on the surface of genuine microbubbles.
Straight to colonoscopy: the ideal patient pathway for the 2-week suspected cancer referrals?
Authors: Beggs Andrew D , Bhate Ravinda D , Irukulla Shashi , Achiek Mayen , Abulafi A Muti
Published: March 2011

INTRODUCTION

The UK has a higher mortality for colon cancer than the European average. The UK Government introduced a 2-week referral target for patients with colorectal symptoms meeting certain criteria and 62-day target for the delivery of treatment from the date of referral for those patients diagnosed with cancer. Hospitals are expected to meet 100% and 95% of these targets, respectively; therefore, an efficient and effective patient pathway is required to deliver diagnosis and treatment within this period. It is suggested that ‘straight-to-test’ will help this process and we have examined our implementation of ‘straight-to-colonoscopy’ as a method of achieving this aim.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We carried out a retrospective audit of 317 patients referred under the 2-week rule over a 1-year period between October 2004 and September 2005 and were eligible for ‘straight-to-colonoscopy'. Demographic data, appropriateness of referral and colonoscopy findings were obtained. The cost effectiveness and impact on waiting period were also analysed. RESULTS A total of 317 patients were seen within 2 weeks. Cancer was found in 23 patients and all were treated within 62 days. Forty-four patients were determined by the specialist to have been referred inappropriately because they did not meet NICE referral guidelines. No cancer was found in any of the inappropriate referrals. The use of straight-to-test colonoscopy lead to cost savings of £26,176 (£82.57/patient) in this group compared to standard practice. There was no increase in waiting times.

CONCLUSIONS

Straight-to-colonoscopy for urgent suspected cancer referrals is a safe, feasible and cost-effective method for delivery of the 62-day target and did not lead to increase in the endoscopy waiting list.
The role of a multidisciplinary pre-assessment clinic in reducing mortality after complex orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Kamal T , Conway RM , Littlejohn I , Ricketts D
Published: March 2011

INTRODUCTION

This paper describes an audit loop. The aim of this study was to audit the effect of a specialised preoperative anaesthetic assessment clinic after hip and knee arthroplasty and revision arthroplasty.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We studied patients undergoing hip and knee surgery (arthroplasty and revision arthroplasty). We collected data concerning postoperative admissions to the high dependency unit (HDU), intensive care unit (ICU) and post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU) (planned and unplanned rates of admission, length of stay). We also noted mortality. In the first part of the study (April 2005 to March 2006) we studied 298 patients. All patients were assessed independently by an anaesthetist on the day of surgery. A multidisciplinary preoperative assessment clinic commenced in April 2006. After this date all patients were assessed preoperatively by a multidisciplinary anaesthetic lead team. In the second part of the study (May 2006 to April 2009) a further 1,147 arthroplasty patients were studied. Data were again collected regarding HDU, ICU, PACU and mortality, as noted above.

RESULTS

We found statistically significant (p=0.001) reductions in the admissions to PACU (22% down to 10%) and in mortality (6.1% down to 1.2%) after the introduction of the pre-assessment clinic. There was also a statistically significant (p=0.01) reduction in the HDU length of stay (2.1 days to 1.6 days), ICU un-planned admissions (1.3% to 0.4%) and the ICU length of stay (2.3 to 1.9 days). We estimated cost savings of nearly £50,000 in the second part of the study. This is based on the average decrease in HDU and ICU length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

We recommend the use of a multidisciplinary pre-assessment clinic for complex orthopaedic surgery.
‘Clinical scaphoid fracture’: is it time to abolish this phrase?
Authors: Shetty S , Sidharthan S , Jacob J , Ramesh B
Published: March 2011

INTRODUCTION

Most patients with post-traumatic painful wrists and negative radiographs are treated as having a clinical scaphoid fracture. Such cases are usually followed up with repeat radiographs. If the radiographs are inconclusive further imaging is done. However, this traditional approach results in the vast majority of patients being unnecessarily immobilised for an unspecified period, leading to loss of productivity and income to the patient and the community. A number of studies have highlighted the use of early CT or MRI scans to identify these fractures. The aim of this study was to evaluate our current practice in managing patients with suspected fractures of the scaphoid.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A retrospective audit was carried out. The period studied was from January to August 2008. Fifty consecutive patients who were investigated for occult fractures of the scaphoid were included.

RESULTS

92% of the patients studied had a repeat radiograph in the fracture clinic. 84% of the patients had their wrists immobilised in a cast while awaiting further imaging. Only 6% had confirmed fracture of the scaphoid; all of these healed uneventfully. 76% of patients with negative scans had their wrists immobilised for an average period of 30.63 days.

CONCLUSIONS

It is time we rethink this dogmatic approach to patients with clinical signs but negative radiographs. We recommend that patients with a painful wrist following an injury and negative radiographs should be referred early to an appropriate clinician and earlier recourse to advanced imaging should be advocated.
Effects of Targeted Reading Instruction on Phonological Awareness and Phonic Decoding in Children with Down Syndrome
Authors: Cologon Kathy , Cupples Linda , Wyver Shirley
Published: March 2011

This research evaluated the effectiveness of reading instruction targeting oral reading and phonological awareness for children with Down syndrome (affecting chromosome 21). The participants were 7 children ranging in age from 2 years, 11 months to 10 years, 8 months. Each child acted as his/her own control, with assessments of language, cognition, phonological awareness, word and short-passage comprehension, and oral reading ability conducted on four occasions (initially, preintervention, postintervention and delayed postintervention) over approximately a 12-month period. The intervention was conducted over 10 weekly sessions and involved individual instruction. The postintervention assessment results provided evidence that phonic reading instruction was generally effective in improving reading skills and phonological awareness of children with Down syndrome.
Observational Assessment and Maternal Reports of Motivation in Children and Adolescents With Down Syndrome
Authors: Gilmore Linda , Cuskelly Monica
Published: March 2011

Despite a lack of consistent empirical evidence, there has been an ongoing assumption that intellectual disability is associated with reduced levels of motivation. The participants in this study were 33 children with Down syndrome ages 10–15 years and 33 typically developing 3–8-year-old children. Motivation was measured through observational assessments of curiosity, preference for challenge, and persistence, as well as maternal reports. There were no significant group differences on motivation tasks, but mothers of children with Down syndrome rated their children significantly lower on motivation than did parents of typically developing children. There were some intriguing group differences in the pattern of correlations among observations and parent reports. The findings challenge long-held views that individuals with intellectual disability are invariably deficient in motivation.
The role of nuclear endothelial nitric oxide synthase in the endothelial and prostate microenvironments
Authors: Nanni Simona , Grasselli Annalisa , Benvenuti Valentina , Aiello Aurora , Pantisano Valentina , Re Agnese , Gaetano Carlo , Capogrossi Maurizio C. , Bacchetti Silvia , Pontecorvi Alfredo , Farsetti Antonella
Published: March 2011

This review is based on novel observations from our laboratory on the nuclear translocation and functional role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in endothelial and prostate cancer (PCa) epithelial cells. Nitric oxide (NO), the product of eNOS, is a free radical involved in the physiology and pathophysiology of living organisms and in a variety of biological processes including the maintenance of vascular homeostasis. Of relevance in this context is the role that estrogens play in the apoptotic process and the migration of endothelial cells through the regulation of target genes such as eNOS itself. It has been shown that both estrogen and NO signaling, mediated respectively by the estrogen receptors (ERs) and eNOS, can strongly counteract endothelial senescence through a common effector, the catalytic subunit of human telomerase. Therefore, this protein has been identified as a key molecule in the aging process which, intriguingly, is considered the only risk factor in the development of PCa and one of the major determinants of cardiovascular diseases. Indeed, in both these contexts we have defined a molecular mechanism involving activation of eNOS and hypoxia-inducible factors in association with ERβ that characterizes the most aggressive form of PCa or influences endothelial cell differentiation. Altogether these data led us to postulate that activation of eNOS is a crucial requirement for the delaying of endothelial senescence as well as for the acquisition of androgen-independence and for tumor progression in the prostate microenvironment.
Blood Pressure Percentiles by Age and Height From Nonoverweight Children and Adolescents in Germany
Authors: Neuhauser Hannelore K. , Thamm Michael , Ellert Ute , Hense Hans Werner , Rosario Angelika Schaffrath
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVES:

To present oscillometric blood pressure (BP) references from German nonoverweight children and compare them with US references.

METHODS:

From children and adolescents, aged 3 to 17 years, from the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents (KiGGS 2003–2006), we obtained standardized BP measurements by using an oscillometric device validated in children. Gender-specific systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) BP percentiles, which simultaneously accounted for age and height by use of advanced statistical methods, were derived from nonoverweight children to avoid overweight prevalence in the reference population influencing BP references.

RESULTS:

The age- and gender-specific 95th percentiles from nonoverweight children (n = 12 199) were lower by up to 3 mm Hg for SBP and up to 2 mm Hg for DBP compared with the total sample (N = 14 349). KiGGS percentiles from nonoverweight children accounting simultaneously for age and height were mostly lower than in the US reference sample but higher for SBP in boys aged 14 years or older. At median height, the age-specific differences in 95th percentiles of SBP ranged from −4 to 4 mm Hg in boys and −2 to 1 mm Hg in girls and, for DBP, from −6 to 2 mm Hg in boys and −5 to 2 mm Hg in girls.

CONCLUSIONS:

Compared with current US references, the proposed German BP reference values are not influenced by the prevalence of overweight children in the reference population, they are based on a validated oscillometric device, and they take advantage of improved statistical methods.
Abusive Head Trauma in Children: A Comparison of Male and Female Perpetrators
Authors: Esernio-Jenssen Debra , Tai Julia , Kodsi Sylvia
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effect of perpetrator gender on victim presentation and outcomes, and perpetrator legal outcomes for abusive head trauma (AHT).

METHODS:

We performed a retrospective chart review of AHT cases from 1998 to 2008. Patient clinical data and information regarding perpetrator legal outcome was obtained. Relationship of brain injury and retinal hemorrhages (RHs) and differences in categorical variables of perpetrator gender were compared by using Fisher's exact test. Differences in continuous variables between perpetrator gender were compared by using the Mann-Whitney Test.

RESULTS:

There were 34 cases of AHT with identified perpetrators, 17 of each gender. Mean age of the victims was 9.4 months (SD: 7.8). Thirty-two (94%) had intracranial hemorrhages, 14 (41%) had both primary and secondary brain injury, 28 (82%) had RHs, and 6 (18%) died. The severity of RH was related to the severity of brain injuries (P = .01). The median age for female perpetrators (34 years) was higher than that for males (27 years; P = .001). Six categorical variables were associated with male perpetrator gender: acute presenting symptoms of cardiopulmonary or respiratory arrest (P = .025), worse clinical outcome (P = .012), neurosurgical intervention (P = .037), death (P = .018), perpetrator confession (P = .0001), and conviction (P = .005).

CONCLUSIONS:

There were significant perpetrator gender differences of AHT in children. Male perpetrators were younger and more likely to confess and be convicted. Victims of male perpetrators had more serious acute presentations and neurosurgical intervention and suffered worse clinical outcomes.
Cognitive Function After Intrauterine Growth Restriction and Very Preterm Birth
Authors: Morsing Eva , Åsard Malena , Ley David , Stjernqvist Karin , Maršál Karel
Published: March 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effects of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) with absent or reversed end-diastolic blood flow in the umbilical artery and very preterm birth on cognitive outcome at 5 to 8 years of age.

METHODS:

We studied 34 children with IUGR born at a median of 26.9 gestational weeks (GWs) (range: 24–29 GWs) (PT-IUGR), 34 matched preterm appropriate-for-gestational age (PT-AGA) children, and 34 term AGA children (T-AGA) by using the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence, Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and Brown's attention-deficit disorder (ADD) scales.

RESULTS:

The PT-IUGR group had mean (SD) scores on the verbal IQ (VIQ) and full-scale IQ (FSIQ) of 83.8 (17.3) and 78.9 (16.6), respectively, compared with the PT-AGA group, which had scores of 96.0 (14.5) and 90.1 (14.2) (P = .003 and P < .007), and the T-AGA group, which had scores of 101.3 (12) and 102.9 (13.2) (P < .001 and P < 001), respectively. The VIQ difference remained significant after adjustment for parental level of education, gestational age at birth, and neonatal morbidity. Performance IQ (PIQ) did not differ between the PT-IUGR and PT-AGA groups; their mean PIQs were lower than that of the T-AGA group (P < .001). Boys in the PT-IUGR group scored lower than girls in VIQ and FSIQ (P = .005 and .007, respectively). Behavior and ADD scores did not differ between the preterm groups.

CONCLUSIONS:

Children born very preterm after IUGR have an increased risk for cognitive impairment at early school age compared with children delivered very preterm for other reasons. Differences in cognitive outcome were restricted to boys who may have been especially vulnerable to the influence of IUGR and very preterm birth.
Proposta de modelagem não-linear do desempenho germinativo de sementes de milho híbrido
Authors: Gazola Sebastião , Scapim Carlos Alberto , Guedes Terezinha Aparecida , Braccini Alessandro de Lucca e
Published: March 2011

Este trabalho foi desenvolvido com o objetivo de ajustar um modelo de regressão não-linear para estimar o desempenho germinativo de sementes de três lotes comerciais de milho híbrido OC 705, submetidas ao teste de envelhecimento acelerado, à temperatura de 43ºC. Utilizou-se o modelo logístico y(t)=C/(1+exp(B(t-M))) para ajustar os dados. As medidas de viés de Box e de curvaturas paramétrica e intrínseca foram usadas para o diagnóstico do modelo. O modelo proposto ajusta-se adequadamente aos dados de percentuais germinativos de sementes de milho híbrido OC 705, para todos os lotes. Com base nas estimativas dos parâmetros e qualidade de ajuste, o lote três foi identificado como sendo o melhor para comercialização, por apresentar menor redução no poder germinativo ao longo do tempo.
Espessadores no beneficiamento de minério de ferro
Authors: Torquato Nilton Carlos , Luz José Aurélio Medeiros da
Published: March 2011

Esse trabalho visa a comparar estudos de espessamento realizados em escala industrial com ensaios de sedimentação realizados em escala de bancada e propõe a utilização de fatores de correção nos métodos clássicos de dimensionamento de espessadores convencionais. A prática industrial, no âmbito do tratamento de minérios de ferro no Brasil, tem consolidado uma modificação substancial no método clássico de Kynch (com traçado de Talmage & Fitch), a qual consiste em adotar, para o traçado, a concentração mássica de sólidos na proveta após 24 horas, no lugar da concentração nominal do underflow no espessador industrial. Os ensaios indicam que a área unitária assim obtida ainda deve ser afetada com os fatores de correção. Esse fator, multiplicativo, é de 0,64, para espessadores de lamas, e de 1,3, para espessadores de concentrado fino (pellet feed).
Avaliação de resultados da capacitação docente: o pós-doutorado na Universidade Federal Fluminense sob a ótica da produção científica e bibliográfica
Authors: Calvosa Marcello Vinicius Doria , Repossi Melina Garcia , Castro Pedro Marcos Roma de
Published: March 2011

A pesquisa aqui apresentada teve como objetivo investigar a influência do estágio pós-doutoral sobre a produção científica e bibliográfica de pesquisadores/docentes atuantes em programas de pós-graduação da Universidade Federal Fluminense - UFF. Estudos sobre o fenômeno pós-doutoral são escassos na literatura e os poucos trabalhos encontrados na literatura internacional versam apenas sobre a realidade de uma única Instituição de Ensino Superior. O estudo busca a mensuração de variações da produção docente registrada em periódicos científicos em um panorama ex-ante e ex-post e busca ampliar o escopo dos estudos dessa área de investigação para abranger também a realidade de uma universidade federal. Com uma população de 278 doutores que realizaram o estágio pós-doutoral até 2008, os dados levantados apontam para um aumento expressivo da UFF na realização dos estágios pós-doutorais, especialmente, nos últimos dez anos, demonstrando o perfil institucional dos docentes que privilegiam e publicam maciçamente em anais de eventos, e como resultado mais relevante que a demanda ou oferta pela realização de estágios pós-doutorais é homogênea entre os diversos estratos da carreira docente, tendo os mesmos níveis percentuais entre docentes recém-doutores e seniores. Quando o foco é o desempenho, nesse caso específico a produtividade em pesquisa, as evidências demonstraram que docentes de pós-graduação na UFF, em geral, beneficiam-se da realidade pós-doutoral, em especial os docentes com maior tempo de conclusão do doutorado. Eles buscam, por meio da socialização, uma oportunidade de atualização e reciclagem de conhecimentos por intermédio da interação com um conhecimento gerado. No caso do pós-doutorado, isso ocorre por conectividade com outras universidades ou grupos de pesquisa.
Óleo de copaíba (Copaifera langsdorfii Desf.) em padrões reprodutivos de camundongos e no desenvolvimento embriofetal
Authors: Lourenço A.C.S. , Miguel L.K. , Guarido K.L. , Sensiate L.A. , Salles M.J.S.
Published: March 2011

A utilização de plantas medicinais sempre foi bem difundida, porém hoje se faz necessária uma abordagem científica para comprovar sua eficácia. Este estudo foi realizado para avaliar a possível toxicidade materna e teratogenicidade do óleo de copaíba, um óleo resina exudado do tronco de Copaifera langsdorfii, muito utilizado na medicina natural. Três doses de óleo de copaíba, administradas por gavage durante 5 dias do período gestacional de fêmeas de camundongos, foram testadas 0,3 mL Kg-1, 0,6 mL Kg-1 e 0,9 mL Kg-1 (p.c.). Em relação ao ganho de peso materno, peso dos órgãos, número de fetos vivos e implantes e viabilidade fetal, não houve diferença estatística entre os grupos. Os dados demonstram que este fitoterápico não apresenta toxicidade materna. Com relação às médias de peso e comprimento fetal dos grupos tratados, houve diferença estatística quando comparados ao controle, mas os fetos ainda se encontravam dentro do peso adequado à idade de prenhez. A prole das fêmeas tratadas não apresentou malformações ou alterações externas, viscerais e esqueléticas. Os resultados deste estudo indicam que o óleo de copaíba, nas doses administradas e período estudado, não apresentou toxicidade materna ou causou teratogenicidade na prole das fêmeas tratadas. Portanto, podemos considerar seu uso seguro durante o período gestacional.
Primeiro registro na América Latina do manjericão (Ocimum basilicum L., 1753) (Lamiaceae) como hospedeiro do ácaro Brevipalpus obovatus Donnadieu, 1933 (Tenuipalpidae)
Authors: Poderoso J.C.M. , Ribeiro G.T. , Navia D. , Gonçalves G.B. , Correia- Oliveira M.E.
Published: March 2011

Os ácaros tenuipalpídeos representam importantes pragas para diversas culturas agrícolas por todo o mundo. Durante a prospecção em plantas de Ocimum basilicum no viveiro de plantas medicinais da Universidade Federal de Sergipe no município de São Cristóvão, Sergipe, a ocorrência destes foi observada em 80% das mudas que foram levadas ao laboratório, com o objetivo de caracterizar os danos. As mudas apresentavam sintomas de redução e encarquilhamento do limbo. Foram coletados 100 espécimes destas plantas os quais foram montados em lâminas de microscopia para a identificação taxonômica. Os ácaros foram identificados como Brevipalpus obovatus Donnadieu, 1933 (Tenuipalpidae). Este é o primeiro relato do O. basilicum como hospedeira para B. obovatus na América Latina.
Responsibly Competent: Teaching, Ethics and Diversity
Authors: Allan Julie
Published: March 2011

This article reports on a Council of Europe project, Policies and Practices for Teaching Sociocultural Diversity, undertaken between 2006 and 2009. The project was undertaken in three phases and involved a survey of teacher education policies and practices in relation to sociocultural diversity across Europe, a conceptual analysis and the development of a framework of teacher competences for sociocultural diversity. The article charts the process of developing the framework and reports on the engagement with the key stakeholders – policy makers, teachers and students. The features of the competence framework, informed by Levinas and emphasising the teacher's responsibility to the Other, are discussed.
The Paradox of Dialogue
Authors: Murphy Peter
Published: March 2011

The Council of Europe's 2008 White Paper on Intercultural Dialogue signalled – with a measure of deep concern – the limits of multiculturalism and its attendant problems of identity politics, communal segregation, and the undermining of rights and freedoms in culturally closed communities. The White Paper proposed the replacement of the policy of multiculturalism with a policy of intercultural dialogue. The article in response reflects on the paradoxical nature of all discursive models of dialogue, including that of the Council of Europe, and suggests in its place a dramaturgical model of dialogue. All forms of dialogue that rely on discursive interaction run into the problem of incommensurable values, principles and ultimate authorities. From Weber and Kelsen to Castoriadis and Lyotard, this problem has been well assayed. It is not surmountable by the length, relative intensity or presumptive civility of a dialogue. Neither ‘willingness to listen’ nor ‘open-mindedness' – let alone ‘debate’ and ‘argument’ – can solve the deep, difficult aporias of fundamental value conflicts. Nor can appeals to human rights, democracy and the rule of law, though the Council of Europe believes otherwise. We live in a world where liberal values of these kinds are routinely contested by militant pre-enlightenment communities. Dialogue can make no substantive difference to this. What then can? Historically and structurally, patrimonial cultures are only transformed under dramaturgical conditions. The article explores how the modern society of strangers mobilizes role playing, public acting, dramatic dialogism and various types of social dramaturgy (afforded especially by the anonymous theatre of its cities, markets and publics), and causes thereby the ironic incorporation or else the gradual withering-away of patrimonies, patriarchies and other kinds of pre-enlightenment communities.