bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Issues in Action Formation: Requests and the Problem with x
Authors: Fox Barbara A. , Heinemann Trine
Published: March 2017

In previous interactional studies of formats for utterances doing requests, attention has been given to the initial verb (such as can/could or wonder) and possibly the subject (especially I vs you). The current study examines the main types of grammatical variation found in what we call the “x component,” that is the segment after the initial verb and subject. We examine two types of requests: those with can you x and those with wonder x, and we find that variations in the x component in these requests are associated with variations in the unfolding development of the request sequences. We thus suggest that the x component is crucial to the interactional work accomplished by the requesting utterance.
Chitosan nanoparticles based nanovaccines for cancer immunotherapy
Authors: Chen Pu-Guang , Huang Zhi-Hua , Sun Zhan-Yi , Gao Yue , Liu Yan-Fang , Shi Lei , Chen Yong-Xiang , Zhao Yu-Fen , Li Yan-Mei
Published: March 2017

Cancer immunotherapy based on tumor vaccine is very promising and intriguing for carcinoma treatment. Herein, antitumor nanovaccines consisting of self-assembled chitosan (CS) nanoparticles and two-component mucin1 (MUC1) glycopeptide antigens were reported. Two different kinds of polyanionic electrolyte [sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) and γ-poly-L-glutamic acid (γ-PGA)] were combined with chitosan polymers to fabricate the diameter of nearly 400–500 nm CS nanoparticles by electrostatic interactions. The nanovaccines were constructed by physically mixing MUC1 glycopeptide antigens with CS nanoparticles, which reduced vaccine constructing complexity compared with traditional chemical total synthetic vaccines. Immunological studies revealed that the CS/γ-PGA nanoparticle could dramatically enhance the immunogenicity of peptide epitope and produce significantly high titers of IgG antibody which was even better than Freund’s adjuvant-containing vaccines.
Carbon dioxide and methane adsorption over metal modified mesoporous SBA-15 silica
Authors: Zeleňák Vladimír , Magura Jozef , Zeleňáková Adriána , Smolková Romana
Published: March 2017

In the present study, mesoporous silica materials doped with metal ions (Al3+, Ti4+, Zr4+) were synthesized and characterized by a combination of various techniques, such as small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), nitrogen adsorption/desorption at 77 K, elemental analysis, transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was shown that the metal ion doped samples retained their porous structure, which was similar to that of parent SBA-15. The synthesized M-SBA-15 samples (M=Al3+, Ti4+, Zr4+) were evaluated in terms of adsorption of carbon dioxide and methane at 303 K. It was observed, that metal doping enhances carbon dioxide adsorption in comparison with purely siliceous sample, while low effect of metal doping on methane adsorption was observed.
Case report: minimal invasive approach in a case of cervical schwannoma
Authors: Kumar Raghuvendra , Dhal Amar C , Kumar Abhishek
Published: March 2017

Purpose: The purpose of our case report is to present our experience with minimal invasive approach in a case of cervical schwannoma.

Method: The data of patient treated for cervical schwannoma like site, size and extension of the lesion were obtained by neuroimaging and preoperative neurological status obtained by clinical examination. The postoperative neurological status and radiological image were available. The clinical course was documented by Karnofsky score (KPS).

Result: We approached the tumour through interlaminar fenestration in cervical (C1-C2) region. Postoperative neuroimaging revealed complete removal of the lesion and no sign of spinal instability. At discharge improvement of KPS score and neurological improvement was observed.

Conclusion: Minimal access procedures are increasingly gaining popularity in spine surgery. The aim of the surgical procedure is minimizing the invasiveness and maximizing the efficacy. Modern neuroimaging allows adequate preoperative planning and microsurgical techniques provide adequate execution of the surgical act.
The Directional Spectrum of Pedagogical Action in the Context of Foreign Scholars’ Views
Authors: Mozgovyi Victor
Published: March 2017

The article deals with the study of crucial features and functions of the direction of pedagogical action in educational practices of Ukraine and the Russian Federation. Using the descriptional characteristics presented by scientists and pedagogues-scholars from the mentioned countries we have defined common and distinct features of the phenomenon under study, compared its structure and components. The analyzed definitions suggest that the direction of pedagogical action is based on the synthesis of theatrical and pedagogical art. The direction of pedagogical action is oriented toward methodical provision of modern trends in the development of humanistic education and creates relevant emotional field for the comprehensive development of personality. As a result, we have found out that the direction of pedagogical action in the Russian Federation is practice-oriented and is used as a method of emotional influence on pupil while solving educational tasks of a comprehensive secondary school. More common is the spectrum of using the direction of pedagogical action in the national systems of secondary and higher education where this phenomenon is mostly associated with the development of teacher professionalism, their pedagogical mastery that contributes to the organization of the educational process at a new level – a creative function that is oriented toward the establishment of efficient pedagogical interaction. Based on the results of the comparative analysis, we have concluded that comprehending the efficiency of using the direction of pedagogical action in the systems of secondary and higher education in Ukraine and the Russian Federation will contribute to a new level of organization of free pedagogical interaction where the author’s position of teachers may surely help to meet personal educational needs of their pupils and students.
Providing Retraining and Advancement Training for Primary/Elementary School Teachers at the State Level in Great Britain and the USA
Authors: Chychuk Antonina
Published: March 2017

In Great Britain and the USA the normative basis of primary/elementary school teachers’ qualification advancement is being actively developed, i. e. this issue is considered at the state level. For a long time the development of retraining and advancement training system for primary/elementary school teachers has been grounded on conceptual foundations of pedagogy that ensures the functionality of the mentioned system. The research results on conceptual foundations for forming an education system of teacher qualification advancement in Great Britain and the USA prove that their nature depends on the development of these countries’ history. In particular, there is a trend towards integrating course- and school-based forms of qualification advancement on the ground of teachers’ collaboration with lectures; raising the question of making the education process of primary/elementary school teachers’ qualification advancement more democratic; creating a participatory style of learning that is carried out collectively (teachers actively develop the programme content and propose to include such issues that are necessary for their solving during these courses).
Forming Professional Competency of Education Managers in Central European Countries
Authors: Tovkanets Oksana
Published: March 2017

The article deals with the problem of forming education managers’ professional competency in the context of European integration educational processes. The peculiarities of education managers’ competences as well as directions of their professional training in motivational, cognitive and metacognitive spheres have been theoretically justified. The performed analysis of curricula in higher education institutions of Central European countries has proved their use of the complex approach to forming professional competences of education managers. The author has revealed the peculiarities of education managers’ professional training while mastering accredited specialized courses in School Management in the Centre for Lifelong Education at Faculty of Education at Palacký University in Olomouc, the Czech Republic; a Bachelor’s degree in Education Specialization (School Management) at Charles University in Prague, the Czech Republic; in the context of the project launched by the European Social Fund (EFS) called “The Development of Education Managers’ Competences in Schools and Educational Institutions in the Hradec Králové Region – the Model of Professional Education”, the Czech Republic. It has been concluded that higher education institutions of Central European countries focus on the development of pedagogical and managerial competencies. It has been highlighted that the complication of training content and the modernization of disciplines will allow to form thinking and actions of education managers as comprehensively educated specialists able to successfully deal with professional tasks using their educational and intellectual potential.
Heterogenität von Mitgliederstrukturen als Herausforderung für Genossenschaften im Agribusiness
Authors: Höhler Julia
Published: March 2017

The literature mostly considers the heterogeneity of cooperatives‘ member structure to be a drawback or risk of this organizational form. Structural change in agriculture, diversification and cooperatives‘ growth inevitably result in a more heterogeneous member structure of cooperatives in agribusiness. By the application of Lazear’s (1999) model to the heterogeneous composition of teams on cooperatives in agribusiness, this paper shows under which conditions a cooperative benefits from the heterogeneity of its members.
Stacking changes of KLi[Sb2(C4H2O6)2] homochiral layers mediated by interlayer solvent molecules
Authors: Wang Xiqu , Makarenko Tatyana , Jacobson Allan J.
Published: March 2017

A new compound KLi[Sb2(C4H2O6)2]·4H2O, 1, was synthesized in single crystal form by slowly evaporating an aqueous solution of potassium antimony tartrate and lithium nitrate. The structure of 1 consists of homochiral layers of antimony tartrate dimers linked by LiO4 tetrahedra. The interlayer water molecules can be reversibly driven out by heating or exchanged by small alcohol molecules under ambient conditions, occurring via single-crystal to single-crystal transformations. To accommodate different interlayer molecules, the interlayer space is changed by adjusting the relative lateral shift of neighboring layers. A similar adjustment in the layer stacking also occurs in a structural phase transition caused by order-disorder transformation of the arrangement of interlayer methanol molecules at low temperature.
Congenital hyperinsulinism and Poland syndrome in association with 10p13–14 duplication
Authors: Giri Dinesh , Patil Prashant , Hart Rachel , Didi Mohammed , Senniappan Senthil
Published: March 2017

Poland syndrome (PS) is a rare congenital condition, affecting 1 in 30 000 live births worldwide, characterised by a unilateral absence of the sternal head of the pectoralis major and ipsilateral symbrachydactyly occasionally associated with abnormalities of musculoskeletal structures. A baby girl, born at 40 weeks’ gestation with birth weight of 3.33 kg (−0.55 SDS) had typical phenotypical features of PS. She had recurrent hypoglycaemic episodes early in life requiring high concentration of glucose and glucagon infusion. The diagnosis of congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) was biochemically confirmed by inappropriately high plasma concentrations of insulin and C-peptide and low plasma free fatty acids and β-hydroxyl butyrate concentrations during hypoglycaemia. Sequencing of ABCC8, KCNJ11 and HNF4A did not show any pathogenic mutation. Microarray analysis revealed a novel duplication in the short arm of chromosome 10 at 10p13–14 region. This is the first reported case of CHI in association with PS and 10p duplication. We hypothesise that the HK1 located on the chromosome 10 encoding hexokinase-1 is possibly linked to the pathophysiology of CHI.

Learning points:

Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is known to be associated with various syndromes.

This is the first reported association of CHI and Poland syndrome (PS) with duplication in 10p13–14.

A potential underlying genetic link between 10p13–14 duplication, PS and CHI is a possibility.
Quality Improvement and Safety in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Fischer Hannah R. , Stewart Dan L.
Published: March 2017

Improving the safety and quality of care provided to patients has risen to the forefront of today’s medical landscape. Applying principles of improvement and reliability in an effective manner in the NICU is paramount for improving outcomes for our patients and their families. Using quality collaboratives for benchmarking and sharing best practices, developing a robust safety culture, and involving parents in safety and quality endeavors are ways in which NICUs can achieve this goal.
Neurodevelopment, Nutrition, and Inflammation: The Evolving Global Child Health Landscape
Authors: Bhutta Zulfiqar A. , Guerrant Richard L. , Nelson Charles A.
Published: March 2017

The last decade has witnessed major reductions in child mortality and a focus on saving lives with key interventions targeting major causes of child deaths, such as neonatal deaths and those due to childhood diarrhea and pneumonia. With the transition to Sustainable Development Goals, the global health community is expanding child health initiatives to address not only the ongoing need for reduced mortality, but also to decrease morbidity and adverse exposures toward improving health and developmental outcomes. The relationship between adverse environmental exposures frequently associated with factors operating in the prepregnancy period and during fetal development is well established. Also well appreciated are the developmental impacts (both short- and long-term) associated with postnatal factors, such as immunostimulation and environmental enteropathy, and the additional risks posed by the confluence of factors related to malnutrition, poor living conditions, and the high burden of infections. This article provides our current thinking on the pathogenesis and risk factors for adverse developmental outcomes among young children, setting the scene for potential interventions that can ameliorate these adversities among families and children at risk.
Assessment of pesticide application quality with a manual sprayer in spinach
Authors: Sesquile Juan David , Castillo Bernardo
Published: March 2017

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the performance of three hollow cone nozzles (TeeJet® TX 800050 VK, TeeJet® TXA 8004 VK and TX-Royal Condor®) and one flat fan nozzle (TeeJet® XR 8004 VS) with two manual application techniques on a crop of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.). In order to assess the quality ofthe application of pesticides, WSP (water sensitive paper) collectors and fluorescent tracer Tinopal® CBS-X were used. In one ofthe trials, percentage of tracer retained by the leaf surfaces was also determined. In this study, and based on the methodology of collectors, it was observed that the technique of applying two passes with the TX-Royal Condor® nozzle could be recommended for the application of pesticides with a hand-operated sprayer in the spinach crop. However, this was not corroborated by the fluorescent tracer technique.
Los territorios indígenas en la agenda política de Colombia: entre apuestas estatales y reivindicaciones ancestrales
Authors: Giraldo John
Published: March 2017

Este artículo centra su atención en las interacciones estatales y no estatales que permiten la instalación de la territorialidad indígena en la agenda política, durante procesos constituyentes. De allí el interés en saber ¿por qué se instala los territorios indígenas en la agenda política durante la Constituyente de 1991 en Colombia? La hipótesis de trabajo sostiene que un mecanismo de acoplamiento institucional permite la agencia de ciertos actores que aprovechan un momento político acoplando los problemas a las soluciones, e impulsando el tema en la agenda. A partir de las discusiones teóricas en torno a la conformación de la agenda política y a las configuraciones institucionales en que los actores se mueven, se construye dicho mecanismo hipotético de acoplamiento institucional. Como metodología se ha propuesto el seguimiento de procesos para identificar el funcionamiento del mecanismo y el análisis de los instrumentos de política para ordenar la evidencia empírica. Finalmente, se descartan y comprueban las partes necesarias y suficientes para el funcionamiento del mecanismo, así como las agencias desatadas en su interior. El método narrativo para entender la trayectoria y el funcionamiento de las políticas públicas locales.
Monitoring lactic acid concentrations by infrared spectroscopy: A new developed method for Lactobacillus fermenting media with potential food applications
Authors: Păucean A. , Vodnar D.C. , Mureșan V. , Fetea F. , Ranga F. , Man S.M. , Muste S. , Socaciu C.
Published: March 2017

The lactic acid bacteria are key microorganisms for the production and preservation of fermented dairy products, cheeses, sourdough bread, and lacto-fermented vegetables. This study was developed to monitor lactic acid produced by Lactobacillus plantarum ATCC 8014 and Lactobacillus casei ATCC 393, as single strains and combined, in fermenting media by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy coupled to multivariate statistical analysis. Media containing different mixtures of carbohydrates were chosen as model fermenting media for monitoring lactic acid concentration by infrared spectroscopy, due to the fact that vegetable and animal food matrices could contain different carbohydrates as carbon sources. Three different types of media were obtained by adding different carbohydrates to a basic MRS medium. HPLC was used as reference method for lactic acid quantification. The calibration set (n=36) was used for building model, while a validation set (n=13) for testing the robustness of the developed model. The coefficients of determination between predicted and reference values were 0.986 and 0.965, while root mean square error for calibration and validation sets recorded values of 0.127 and 0.263 g·l−1, respectively. Results confirmed the efficiency of FTIR spectroscopy combined with multivariate statistics, as a rapid, reliable, and cost-effective tool for routine monitoring of lactic acid.
The acute muscular response to two distinct blood flow restriction protocols
Authors: Dankel SJ , Buckner SL , Counts BR , Jessee MB , Mouser JG , Mattocks KT , Laurentino GC , Abe T , Loenneke JP
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this study was to determine acute physiological and perceptual responses to two commonly implemented blood flow restriction protocols. Using a within-subject design, 15 participants (age ∼25) performed four sets of unilateral elbow flexion with each arm. One arm exercised using a 3-cm elastic cuff inflated to 160 mmHg, whereas the other arm exercised using a 5-cm nylon cuff inflated to 40% of the individual’s arterial occlusion pressure. While both protocols elicited increases in acute muscle thickness [pre: 4.5 (0.2) cm, post: 5.0 (0.2) cm; p < 0.001] and electromyography amplitude [first 3 reps: 55 (5) %MVC; last 3 reps: 87 (10) %MVC], there were no differences between conditions. Both protocols produced decreases in post-exercise strength (pre: 70 Nm, post: 51 Nm; p < 0.001) with no difference between conditions. The nylon protocol resulted in more repetitions during sets 2 [13 (2) vs. 9 (4); p = 0.001] and 3 [10 (2) vs. 7 (4); p = 0.05], while producing lower levels of discomfort following each set (average 3 vs. 4; p < 0.05). In conclusion, both protocols produced similar acute responses thought to be important for promoting muscle growth. However, the use of arbitrary pressures may place some individuals under complete arterial occlusion which may increase the potential risk of an adverse event.
Effectiveness of siwak salvadora persica extract to aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans as one of pathogenic bacteria causing periodontal disease
Authors: Djais Arni I. , Tope Vidya Y.
Published: March 2017

Objective : Periodontal disease is one of oral and dental diseases which most commonly found in humans caused by several factors, one of them due to the accumulation of bacterial plaque. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans is a bacterial pathogen that frequently causes periodontal disease.Material and Methods : To inhibit the growth of these bacteria can be done by using natural ingredients that contain anti-bacterial agent. One of the natural ingredients that contain antibacterial substances is Siwak. To determine the effect of siwak extract against bacteria Aggregatibacter actinobaciluscomnitans as one of the pathogenic bacteria causing periodontal diseases. The study was laboratory experimental with posttest only control group design.Results : This study used sample of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans colonies in MHA medium. Twenty four samples were divided into six treatment groups, they were 5 groups given the extract siwak with concentration of 3.125%, 6:25%, 12.5%, 25%, 50% and 1 group treated with control DMSO 5%. Inhibition zone was measured after 48 hours incubation at 37°C and measured using caliper. Data analysis was performed using Kruskal Wallis test. The mean diameter of inhibition zone at concentrations of 3.125%, 6:25%, 12.5%, 25%, and 50% were 6.4 mm, 7.0 mm, 7.2 mm, 7.9 mm and 8.6 mm.Conclusion : Siwak extract can inhibit the growth of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans as one of the pathogenic bacteria causing periodontal diseases with the largest concentration is a concentration of 50% and the smallest concentration that is 3.125%.
Association between duration of residence with gingival pigmentation in Nuha District, East Luwu Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Samad Rasmidar , Malinta Qushay U.
Published: March 2017

Objective : Gingival pigmentation (changes of the gingival color) from brown to black discoloration may occur due to exogenous and endogenous factor. Increased concentration of heavy metal in the blood has been known to be one of the exogenous factors that could lead to gingival pigmentation. Nuha is a sub-district in South Sulawesi which soil contains high concentration of nickel and other heavy metals. Heavy metal contaminations in the water, soil, or air have detrimental effects on human health, particularly the oral cavity.Material and Methods : This study proposed to determine the association between duration of residence with gingival pigmentation to the community of Nuha District of East Luwu society. This study was a descriptive observational with cross-sectional study design.Results : The population in this study was all of the Nuha residents. The sampling technique used was simple two-stage cluster sampling. Gingival pigmentation in this study was measured using Dummet Oral Pigmentation Index (DOPI).Conclusion : The data obtained showed significant association between duration of residence with maxillar and mandibular gingival pigmentation in the residents of Nuha District of Luwu Timur. p-value for maxillar DOPI was 0.003 and for mandibular DOPI was 0.000.
The effects of rinsing red beet root (beta vulgaris L.) juice on streptococcus sp. dental plaque
Authors: Setyorini Dyah , Rahayu Yani C. , Sistyaningrum Tita
Published: March 2017

Objective : The early attachment process of plaque formation is dominated by Streptococcus sp. Chemical antiplaque agent can optimize plaque control.Material and Methods : Materials of antiplaque have side effects, so it is necessary to do research of alternative antiplaque materials. One of them use red beet root because contain some antibacterial substance. The aim of this study was examine the effectiveness of rinsing red beetroot juice to Streptococcus sp. on dental plaque.Results : This study was a quasi-experimental research with the post test only control group design. Subjects were 27 students from Faculty of Dentistry, University of Jember who fulfilled the criteria, have been scalled, and given the knowledge of how to rinse. The subjects were divided into three groups, and instructed to rinse for 30 seconds using chlorhexidine gluconate 0.2%, distilled water, and red beet root juice. Plaque were taken at the buccal maxillary first molar. Plaque were diluted and planted on streptococcus media for 24 hours, the number of colonies counted using colony counter. Analysis of One-Way ANOVA have significance 0.000, means decreased the number of Streptococcus sp.Conclusion : Rinsing red beet root juice was effective to decrease the number of Streptococcus sp. on dental plaque.
PROTOCOL FOR HARVESTING ‘BRS PRINCESS’ BANANA FRUITS
Authors: OLIVEIRA JUNIOR LUIZ FERNANDO GANASSALI DE , OLIVEIRA LUCAS FONSECA MENEZES , GAGLIARDI PAULO ROBERTO , CARNELOSSI MARCELO AUGUSTO GUTIERREZ , SANTOS JULIO RENOVATO DOS
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to develop a protocol to determine the ideal harvest time for ‘BRS Princess’ banana, using the number of aborted bracts. The bananas were selected according to the number of aborted bracts since the flowering until the time of harvest, yield clusters with 90, 95, 100 and 105 aborted bracts. The physical and chemical analyzes were performed every 3 days on fruits: soluble solids, titratable acidity, weight loss, length and diameter, pH, firmness, skin color (CIELab) and pectin enzyme activity. The statistical design was completely randomized in a 4x5 factorial, with 4 points and 5 periods of harvest analysis and data were evaluated using analysis of variance and regression. For all parameters, fruits harvested at 90 and 105 aborted bracts had unwanted changes in its metabolism when compared to the other treatments, while fruits harvested at 95 and 100 aborted bracts had the best post-harvest characteristics. This method was effective in determining the point of harvest in ‘BRS Princess’ banana fruits, since it allows to obtain fruit quality after storage, and is a simple and objective method.
Análise dos gastos das internações hospitalares por anemia falciforme no estado da Bahia
Authors: Martins Maísa Mônica Flores , Teixeira Martha Carvalho Pereira
Published: March 2017

Resumo Introdução A anemia falciforme é uma doença com alterações genéticas que afeta principalmente a população negra. No curso da doença, surgem diversas complicações clínicas, levando à necessidade de repetidas internações hospitalares. Objetivo Descrever os gastos das internações hospitalares por complicações da anemia falciforme no estado da Bahia, no período de 2008 a 2014. Métodos Estudo descritivo, a partir de dados secundários. A população do estudo foi composta por pacientes internados com diagnóstico de anemia falciforme. Para coleta e análise dos dados, utilizou-se a divisão por Macrorregião de Saúde do estado da Bahia. Resultados Foram analisadas 8.103 internações do SIH-SUS. Predomínio do sexo masculino e faixa etária de 5-14 anos. A Macrorregião de Saúde Leste obteve o maior número de ocorrências de internações por anemia falciforme (33,4%) com maior gasto total; a Macrorregião Sul apresentou maior coeficiente de hospitalização; e a Macrorregião Extremo Sul apresentou a maior taxa de letalidade. As Macrorregiões Leste e Sul são as que abrigam os maiores volumes de gastos, 40,5% e 18,9%, respectivamente. Conclusão O estudo permite conhecer o perfil de internações hospitalares por anemia falciforme e ter uma ideia dos custos hospitalares através das internações pela referida doença no período em estudo.
Use of the correlation coefficient in agricultural sciences: problems, pitfalls and how to deal with them
Authors: Kozak Marcin , Krzanowski Wojtek , Tartanus MaŁgorzata
Published: March 2017

This paper discusses a number of aspects concerning the analysis, interpretation and reporting of correlations in agricultural sciences. Various problems that one might encounter with these aspects are identified, and suggestions of how to overcome these problems are proposed. Some of the examples presented show how mistaken and even misleading the interpretation of correlation can be when one ignores simple rules of analysis.
Reproductive physiology, and physical and sexual development of female offspring born to diabetic dams
Authors: Spadotto Raquel , Damasceno Débora Cristina , Godinho Antonio Francisco , Amorim Elaine Manoela Porto , Perobelli Juliana Elaine , Kempinas Wilma De Grava
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to evaluate physical and sexual development and reproductive physiology in female rat offspring that developed in hyperglycemia conditions in utero and during lactation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Maternal diabetes was induced in female rats by a single IV injection of streptozotocin before mating. Female offspring development was evaluated by means of the following parameters: physical development; age of vaginal opening and first estrus; weight and histological evaluation of uterus and ovaries; duration of the estrous cycle, sexual behavior, and fertility after natural mating. RESULTS: In the female offspring, maternal diabetes caused delays in initial physical development; diminution in ovary weight and number of follicles; and inferior reproductive performance compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The exposure to hyperglycemia in uterus and during lactation caused delays in physical and sexual development, and affected the reproductive physiology of female rats negatively.
Excesso de peso e obesidade em escolares: associação com fatores biopsicológicos, socioeconômicos e comportamentais
Authors: Guimarães Adriana Coutinho de Azevedo , Feijó Isabela , Soares Amanda , Fernandes Sabrina , Machado Zenite , Parcias Sílvia Rosane
Published: March 2017

OBJETIVO: Verificar a associação dos fatores biopsicológicos, socioeconômicos e comportamentais em escolares com excesso de peso e obesidade. SUJEITOS E MÉTODOS: A amostra foi constituída por 393 escolares da rede pública e privada de florianópolis/sc, com idade 9,9 ± 1,7 anos, sendo 41% do sexo masculino. foi aplicado um questionário adaptado de oliveira e cols. em forma de entrevista e realizada a avaliação antropométrica (massa corporal e estatura) para o cálculo do índice de massa corporal (imc) e classificação de excesso de peso e obesidade conforme conde e monteiro. RESULTADOS: Em relação à distribuição de obesidade e excesso de peso por sexo, verificou-se uma distribuição equitativa entre as meninas, enquanto nos meninos o excesso de peso representou 77% da amostra. houve associações entre sexo feminino, estrato econômico, etnia, escola e qualidade dietética, com valores de p variando de < 0,001 a 0,003. CONCLUSÃO: os fatores biopsicológicos, socioeconômicos e comportamentais parecem interferir no excesso de peso e na obesidade em escolares de florianópolis.
Clinical predictors of abnormal esophageal pH monitoring in preterm infants
Authors: Mezzacappa Maria Aparecida , Rosa Ana Cecília
Published: March 2017

BACKGROUND: Risk factors for gastroesophageal reflux disease in preterm neonates have not been yet clearly defined. AIM: To identify factors associated with increased esophageal acid exposition in preterm infants during the stay in the neonatal unit. METHODS: A case-control study in preterm infants who had undergone prolonged monitoring of distal esophageal pH, following clinical indication. Eighty-seven preterms with reflux index (percentage of total time of esophageal pHmetry) >10% (cases) and 87 unpaired preterms were selected with reflux index <10% (controls). Demographic variables, signs and symptoms, main diagnoses and some aspects of treatment were studied. Simple and multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for birthweight and postconceptional age at the pH study were used. RESULTS: The factors associated with a greater chance of reflux index >10% in preterms were: vomiting, regurgitation, Apnea, female gender. The variables that were associated with a lower frequency of increased reflux index were: volume of enteral intake at the onset of symptoms >147 mL/kg/day, and postnatal corticoid use. CONCLUSIONS: Vomiting, regurgitation, apnea, female gender and acute respiratory distress during the first week of life were variables predictive of increased esophageal acid exposition in preterm infants with birthweight <2000 g. Bronchopulmonary dysplasia and use of caffeine were not associated with reflux index >10%.
Methylation status of CDH1 gene in samples of gastric mucous from brazilian patients with chronic gastritis infected by Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Kague Erika , Thomazini Cristiane Melissa , Pardini Maria Inês de Campo Moura , Carvalho Fabrício de , Leite Celso Vieira , Pinheiro Nídia Alice
Published: March 2017

CONTEXT: Gastric cancer is one of the top list of cancer types that most leads to death in Brazil and worldwide. Helicobacter pylori(H. pylori) is a class I carcinogen and infect almost 90% of chronic gastritis patients. Some genotypes confer different virulent potential to H. pylori and can increase the risk of gastritis development. Methylation of CpG islands can inactivate tumor suppressor genes and therefore, it can be involved in the tumorigenic process. CDH1 is a tumor suppressor gene that encodes the E-cadherin protein, which is important in maintaining cell-cell contacts. The inactivation of this gene can increase the chance of metastasis. Promoter methylation of CDH1 at early steps of gastric carcinogenesis is not yet completely understood. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we investigated the methylation status of CDH1 in chronic gastritis samples and correlated it with the presence of H. pylori. METHODS: Sixty gastric mucosal biopsies were used in this study. The detection of H. pylori was performed with the PCR primers specific to urease C gene. H. pylori genotyping was performed by PCR to cagA and vacA (s and m region). The methylation status of these gene CDH1 was analyzed using methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing of the PCR products was performed using primers methylated and unmethylated in both forward and reverse directions. RESULTS: H. pylori was detected in 90% of chronic gastritis samples; among these 33% were cagA positive and 100% vacA s1. The genotype vacA s2/m1 was not detected in any sample analyzed. Methylation of CDH1 was detected in 63.3% of chronic gastritis samples and 95% of them were also H. pylori-positive. CONCLUSION: This work suggests that CDH1 gene methylation and H. pylori infection are frequent events in samples from Brazilian patients with chronic gastritis and reinforces the correlation between H. pylori infection and CDH1 inactivation in early steps of gastric tumorigenesis.
Prevalence of diabetes mellitus and impaired glucose tolerance in patients with decompensated cirrhosis being evaluated for liver transplantation: the utility of oral glucose tolerance test
Authors: Bragança Ana Carolina Costa , Álvares-da-Silva Mário Reis
Published: March 2017

CONTEXT: Cirrhosis, diabetes mellitus, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and protein calorie malnutrition are important issues in cirrhotic patients because they can increase the progression of liver disease and worsen its prognosis. OBJECTIVE:To determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus, impaired glucose tolerance and insulin resistance in cirrhotic patients being evaluated for liver transplantation and their impacts on a 3-month follow-up, and to compare fasting glycemia and oral glucose tolerance test. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in consecutively included adult patients. Diabetes mellitus was established through fasting glycemia and oral glucose tolerance test in diagnosing diabetes mellitus in this population. HOMA-IR and HOMA-β indexes were calculated, and nutritional assessment was performed by subjective global assessment, anthropometry and handgrip strength through dynamometry. RESULTS: Diabetes mellitus was found in 40 patients (64.5%), 9 (22.5%) of them by fasting glycemia and 31 (77.5%) of them by oral glucose tolerance test. Insulin resistance was found in 40 (69%) of the patients. There was no relationship between diabetes mellitus and the etiology of cirrhosis. Protein calorie malnutrition was diagnosed in a range from 3.22% to 45.2% by anthropometry, 58.1% by subjective global assessment and 88.7% by handgrip strength. Diabetes mellitus identified by oral glucose tolerance test was related significantly to a higher prevalence of infectious complications and deaths in a 3-month period (P = 0.017). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance and protein calorie malnutrition is high in cirrhotic patients on the waiting list for liver transplantation. There were more infectious complications and/or deaths in a 3-month follow-up period in patients with diabetes mellitus diagnosed by oral glucose tolerance test. Oral glucose tolerance test seems to be indicated as a routine practice in this population.
Hepatotrophic factors reduce hepatic fibrosis in rats
Authors: Cogliati Bruno , Pereira Hélder de Moraes , Dagli Maria Lúcia Zaidan , Parra Osório Miguel , Silva José Roberto Machado Cunha da , Hernandez-Blazquez Francisco Javier
Published: March 2017

CONTEXT: Hepatic fibrosis occurs in response to several aggressive agents and is a predisposing factor in cirrhosis. Hepatotrophic factors were shown to stimulate liver growth and to restore the histological architecture of the liver. They also cause an improvement in liver function and accelerate the reversion of fibrosis before it progresses to cirrhosis. OBJECTIVE: To test the effects of hepatic fibrosis solution composed by amino acids, vitamins, glucose, insulin, glucagon and triiodothyronine on hepatic fibrosis in rats. METHODS: Fibrosis was induced in rats by gastric administration of dimethylnitrosamine (10 mg/kg) for 5 weeks. After liver biopsy, the rats received either hepatotrophic factors solution (40 mg/kg/day) or saline solution for 10 days by intraperitoneal injection. Blood samples and liver fragments were collected for hepatic function analysis, standard histopathology evaluation, and morphometric collagen quantification. RESULTS: Rats in the hepatotrophic factors group showed a decrease of the histopathological components of fibrosis and an increase of their hepatic mass (12.2%). There was no development of neoplasic lesions in both groups. Compared with the saline group, the hepatotrophic factors group also had a decrease of blood levels of hepatic-lesion markers (AST, ALT) and a decrease of collagen content in the portal spaces (31.6%) and perisinusoidal spaces (42.3%), as well as around the hepatic terminal vein (57.7%). Thus, hepatotrophic factors administration in the portal blood promoted a regenerative hepatic response, with an overall reduction of the volumetric density of collagen, improved hepatic function, and a general improvement in the histopathological aspects of fibrosis. CONCLUSION: Taken together, these results suggest the potential therapeutic use of this hepatotrophic factors solution to treat chronic liver diseases.
Evaluation of liquid ingestion after bariatric surgery
Authors: Dantas Roberto Oliveira , Alves Leda Maria Tavares , Cassiani Rachel de Aguiar , Santos Carla Manfredi dos
Published: March 2017

CONTEXT: Bariatric surgery is an effective treatment for obesity; however, after surgery the patient may have difficulty in swallowing liquid and solid foods. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate liquid ingestion in patients who had undergone bariatric surgery. METHOD: We studied 43 volunteers with normal body mass index (BMI) (BMI: 18.5-24.9 kg/m²), 55 subjects with class III obesity (BMI: >40.0 kg/m²), and 48 subjects with bariatric surgery for treatment of class III obesity. The method chosen for evaluation was the water swallowing test. The subjects drank in triplicate 50 mL of water while being precisely timed and the number of swallows were counted. RESULTS: There was no difference between subjects with normal BMI and subjects with class III obesity. During the first 2 months after bariatric surgery the patients showed an increase in the time needed to drink the entire volume, in the number of swallows, and in the inter-swallow interval, and a decrease in the volume swallowing capacity (volume/swallowing) and swallowing flow rate (volume swallowed/second). After 2 months, the results of the swallowing measurements moved in the direction of normal values. CONCLUSION: Bariatric surgery may cause more intense alterations of liquid bolus swallowing within 2 months after the procedure, which moved to normal values after this time.
Influence of age, mode of delivery and parity on the prevalence of posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions
Authors: Murad-Regadas Sthela Maria , Regadas Francisco Sergio P , Rodrigues Lusmar Veras , Furtado Débora Couto , Gondim Ana Cecília , Dealcanfreitas Íris Daiana
Published: March 2017

CONTEXT: The correlation between vaginal delivery, age and pelvic floor dysfunctions involving obstructed defecation is still a matter of controversy. OBJECTIVES: To determine the influence of age, mode of delivery and parity on the prevalence of posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions in women with obstructed defecation syndrome. METHODS: Four hundred sixty-nine females with obstructed defecation syndrome were retrospectively evaluated using dynamic 3D ultrasonography to quantify posterior pelvic floor dysfunctions (rectocele grade II or III, rectal intussusception, paradoxical contraction/non-relaxation of the puborectalis and entero/ sigmoidocele grade III). In addition, sphincter damage was evaluated. Patients were grouped according to age (<50y x >50y) and stratified by mode of delivery and parity: group I (<50y): 218 patients, 75 nulliparous, 64 vaginal delivery and 79 only cesarean section and group II (>50y): 251 patients, 60 nulliparous, 148 vaginal delivery and 43 only caesarean section. Additionally, patients were stratified by number of vaginal deliveries: 0 - nulliparous (n = 135), 1 - vaginal (n = 46), >1 - vaginal (n = 166). RESULTS: Rectocele grade II or III, intussusception, rectocele + intussusception and sphincter damage were more prevalent in Group II (P = 0.0432; P = 0.0028; P = 0.0178; P = 0.0001). The stratified groups (nulliparous, vaginal delivery and cesarean) did not differ significantly with regard to rectocele, intussusception or anismus in each age group. Entero/sigmoidocele was more prevalent in the vaginal group <50y and in the nulliparous and vaginal groups >50y. No correlation was found between rectocele and the number of vaginal deliveries. CONCLUSION: Higher age (>50 years) was shown to influence the prevalence of significant rectocele, intussusception and sphincter damage in women. However, delivery mode and parity were not correlated with the prevalence of rectocele, intussusception and anismus in women with obstructed defecation.
Nutritional assessment in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Fernandes Sabrina Alves , Bassani Lilian , Nunes Flávia Feijó , Aydos Maria Eugênia Deutrich , Alves Alexandro Vaesken , Marroni Cláudio Augusto
Published: March 2017

CONTEXT: Malnutrition in cirrhotic patients with end-stage disease is common, and the degree of nutritional debilitation can play an important role in the pathogenesis of complications and cause a negative impact on prognosis. However, it involves difficulties and controversies regarding the identification of the best nutritional assessment method. OBJECTIVE: To identify a method that provides a safe and effective nutritional diagnosis. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with 129 cirrhotic patients. Anthropometric measurements, subjective global assessment, hand grip strength and bioelectrical impedance. RESULTS: Through phase angle of bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) method, significant associations with Child-Pugh (P = 0.008), age group and gender were observed. The ROC (receiver operator characteristic) curve was generated to determine the best cutoff point of the phase angle of cirrhotic patients, serving as one of the reference parameters for the nutritional assessment with bioimpedance in this study, considering the classification through Child-Pugh score as the reference standard for the clinical conditions of patients with cirrhosis. CONCLUSIONS: The assessment through bioelectrical impedance presented a statistically significant correlation with Child-Pugh score. The identification of phase angle of 5.44º is the new parameter suggested for the classification of the nutritional conditions of cirrhotic patients.
Portal vein thrombosis in children and adolescents: 20 years experience of a pediatric hepatology reference center
Authors: Ferri Priscila Menezes , Ferreira Alexandre Rodrigues , Fagundes Eleonora Druve Tavares , Liu Shinfay Maximilian , Roquete Mariza Leitão Valadares , Penna Francisco José
Published: March 2017

CONTEXT: Portal vein thrombosis refers to a total or partial obstruction of the blood flow in this vein due to a thrombus formation. It is an important cause of portal hypertension in the pediatric age group with high morbidity rates due to its main complication - the upper gastrointestinal bleeding. OBJECTIVE: To describe a group of patients with portal vein thrombosis without associated hepatic disease of the Pediatric Hepatology Clinic of the Hospital das Clínicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil with emphasis on diagnosis, presentation form and clinical complications, and the treatment of portal hypertension. METHODS: This is a descriptive study of a series of children and adolescents cases assisted from January 1990 to December 2010. The portal vein thrombosis diagnosis was established by ultrasound. RESULTS: Of the 55 studied patients, 30 (54.5%) were male. In 29 patients (52.7%), none of the risk factors for portal vein thrombosis was observed. The predominant form of presentation was the upper gastrointestinal bleeding (52.7%). In 20 patients (36.4%), the initial manifestation was splenomegaly. During the whole following period of the study, 39 patients (70.9%) showed at least one episode of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. The mean age of patients in the first episode was 4.6 ± 3.4 years old. The endoscopic procedure carried out in the urgency or electively for search of esophageal varices showed its presence in 84.9% of the evaluated patients. The prophylactic endoscopic treatment was performed with endoscopic band ligation of varices in 31.3% of patients. Only one died due to refractory bleeding. CONCLUSIONS: The portal vein thrombosis is one of the most important causes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in children. In all non febrile children with splenomegaly and/or hematemesis and without hepatomegaly and with normal hepatic function tests, it should be suspect of portal vein thrombosis. Thus, an appropriate diagnostic and treatment approach is desirable in an attempt to reduce morbidity and mortality.