bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular characterization of avian reovirus isolates in Tunisia
Authors: Hellal Kort Ymene , Bourogâa Hager , Gribaa Latifa , Scott-Algara Daniel , Ghram Abdeljelil
Published: January 2013

Background

Genotype analyses of avian reoviruses isolated from organ samples collected from chickens with suspicious clinical symptoms, between 1997–2008, was based on sequences for both σC and σB genes and aligned with those published in the Genbank, making it possible to carry out studies of molecular classification and relationships.

Methods

The full length of the known variable protein σC and part of the σB encoding genes, were amplified with RT-PCR, using conserved primers. PCR products were sequenced and the sequences were analyzed and aligned with avian reovirus sequences from the Genbank database.

Results

The sequences of σC-encoding genes of all the isolated strains indicated their close relationship with the American, Chinese and Indian strains. Taking the American strain S1133 as a reference, the two Tunisian isolates 97.1 and 97.2 showed some nucleotide substitutions. For isolate 97.1, the substitution was silent whereas for strain 97.2 the mutation was at the first position of the corresponding codon and induced the substitution of the amino acid encoded. For the σB-encoding gene, the sequences of the Tunisian strains showed mutations at positions two or three of the corresponding codons, inducing substitutions of amino acids at these positions. The phylogenic trees based on σC and σB encoding genes indicated closer relationship between Tunisian, American and Taiwanese isolates of genotype I.

Conclusion

Our study describes the genotype of avian reoviruses that are not yet well characterized genetically. The characterization and classification of these viruses might be significant for understanding the epidemiology of malabsorption syndrome and viral arthritis, and improving our knowledge of the genotype of strains circulating in Tunisian flocks. Furthermore, the study of their variable pathogenicity could be extremely important in the choice of the appropriate vaccine strain to control disease.
Population-based outcomes after brain radiotherapy in patients with brain metastases from breast cancer in the Pre-Trastuzumab and Trastuzumab eras
Authors: Karam Irene , Hamilton Sarah , Nichol Alan , Woods Ryan , Speers Caroline , Kennecke Hagen , Tyldesley Scott
Published: January 2013

Purpose

To evaluate the survival of patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) positive and negative metastatic breast cancer irradiated for brain metastases before and after the availability of trastuzumab (T).

Materials and methods

Women diagnosed with brain metastasis from breast cancer in two eras between 2000 and 2007 (T-era, n = 441) and 1986 to 1992 (PreT-era, n = 307), treated with whole brain radiotherapy (RT) were identified. In the T-era, HER2 testing was part of routine clinical practice, and in the preT-era 128/307 (42%) cases had HER2 testing performed retrospectively on tissue microarrays. Overall survival (OS) was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method and comparisons between eras used log-rank tests.

Results

In the preT- and T-era cohorts, the rate of HER2 positivity was 40% (176/441) and 26% (33/128) (p < 0.001). The median time from diagnosis to brain RT was longer in the preT-era (3.3 years versus 2.3 years, p < 0.001). Survival after brain RT was improved in the T-era compared to the preT-era (1-year OS 26% versus 12%, p < 0.001). The 1-year OS rate for HER2 negative patients was 20% in both eras (p = 0.97). Among HER2 positive patients, the 1-year OS in the preT-era was 5% compared to 40% in the T-era (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Distinct from patients with HER2 negative disease in whom no difference in survival after brain RT was observed over time, patients with HER2 positive brain metastases experienced significantly improved survival subsequent to the availability of trastuzumab.
Delayed surgical treatment for a traumatic bilateral cervical facet joint dislocation using a posterior-anterior approach: a case report
Authors: Shimada Takashi , Ohtori Seiji , Inoue Gen , Nakamura Junichi , Nakada Izumi , Saiki Hiroshi , Chang Song Ho , Kawamura Koui , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: January 2013

Introduction

There have been few reports of patients with bilateral cervical facet dislocations that remain untreated for eight weeks or more. We report the case of a 76-year-old man with an old bilateral cervical facet joint dislocation fracture that was treated by posterior-anterior reduction and fixation.

Case presentation

A 76-year-old Asian man was involved in a road traffic accident. He presented with neck pain and arm pain on his right side, but motor weakness and paralysis were not observed. He was treated conservatively; however, instability and spondylolisthesis at the C5 to C6 joint increased eight weeks after the injury. We performed a posterior-anterior reduction and fixation. After surgery, bony union was achieved, and his neck pain and arm pain disappeared.

Conclusion

We recommend reduction and fixation surgery if a patient has an old bilateral facet joint dislocation fracture in the cervical spine.
Detection of extended spectrum β-lactamase in Pseudomonas spp. isolated from two tertiary care hospitals in Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Shahanara , Salam Md Abdus , Alam Kh Faisal , Begum Nurjahan , Hassan Pervez , Haq Jalaluddin Ashraful
Published: January 2013

Background

Extended spectrum ß-lactamases (ESBLs) represent a major group of lactamases responsible for resistance, mostly produced by gram-negative bacteria, to newer generations of ß-lactam drugs currently being identified in large numbers worldwide. The present study was undertaken to see the frequency of ESBL producing Pseudomonas spp. isolated from six hundred clinical specimens (wound, pus, aural, urine, sputum, throat and other swabs) collected over a period of three years from two tertiary care hospitals in Bangladesh.

Findings

Aerobic bacterial culture was performed on aseptically collected swabs and only growth of Pseudomonas was considered for further species identification and ESBL production along with serotyping of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was carried out using the Kirby-Bauer agar diffusion method and ESBL production was detected on Mueller Hinton agar by double-disk synergy technique using Amoxicillin-Clavulanic acid with Ceftazidime, Cefotaxime, Ceftriaxone and Aztreonam. Culture yielded 120 Pseudomonas spp. and 82 of them were biochemically characterized for species. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was found to be the predominant (90.2%) species. Of 82 isolates tested for ESBL, 31 (37.8%) were ESBL positive with 29 (93.5%) as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, the remaining 2 (6.5%) were Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Ralstonia pickettii. Antibiogram revealed Imipenem as the most effective drug (93.3%) among all antimicrobials used against Pseudomonas spp. followed by Aminoglycosides (63.7%).

Conclusion

ESBL producing Pseudomonas spp. was found to be a frequent isolate from two tertiary care hospitals in Bangladesh, showing limited susceptibility to antimicrobials and decreased susceptibility to Imipenem in particular, which is a matter of great concern.
Research capacity and culture in podiatry: early observations within Queensland Health
Authors: Lazzarini Peter A , Geraghty Julia , Kinnear Ewan M , Butterworth Mark , Ward Donna
Published: January 2013

Background

Research is a major driver of health care improvement and evidence‐based practice is becoming the foundation of health care delivery. For health professions to develop within emerging models of health care delivery, it would seem imperative to develop and monitor the research capacity and evidence‐based literacy of the health care workforce. This observational paper aims to report the research capacity levels of statewide populations of public‐sector podiatrists at two different time points twelve‐months apart.

Methods

The Research Capacity & Culture (RCC) survey was electronically distributed to all Queensland Health (Australia) employed podiatrists in January 2011 (n = 58) and January 2012 (n = 60). The RCC is a validated tool designed to measure indicators of research skill in health professionals. Participants rate skill levels against each individual, team and organisation statement on a 10‐point scale (one = lowest, ten = highest). Chi‐squared and Mann Whitney U tests were used to determine any differences between the results of the two survey samples. A minimum significance of p < 0.05 was used throughout.

Results

Thirty‐seven (64%) podiatrists responded to the 2011 survey and 33 (55%) the 2012 survey. The 2011 survey respondents reported low skill levels (Median < 4) on most aspects of individual research aspects, except for their ability to locate and critically review research literature (Median > 6). Whereas, most reported their organisation's skills to perform and support research at much higher levels (Median > 6). The 2012 survey respondents reported significantly higher skill ratings compared to the 2011 survey in individuals' ability to secure research funding, submit ethics applications, and provide research advice, plus, in their organisation's skills to support, fund, monitor, mentor and engage universities to partner their research (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study appears to report the research capacity levels of the largest populations of podiatrists published. The 2011 survey findings indicate podiatrists have similarly low research capacity skill levels to those reported in the allied health literature. The 2012 survey, compared to the 2011 survey, suggests podiatrists perceived higher skills and support to initiate research in 2012. This improvement coincided with the implementation of research capacity building strategies.
Comparing the effects of fluoxetine and imipramine on total cholesterol, triglyceride, and weight in patients with major depression
Authors: Shahsavand Ananloo Esmaeil , Ghaeli Padideh , Kamkar Mohammad-Zaman , Sadeghi Majid
Published: January 2013

Background

There are some reports on the effects of antidepressants on metabolic syndrome. However, our search in the previously published literature showed a lack of information on the comparison of the effects of different classes of antidepressants on lipid profile. Therefore, this study was aimed to compare the effects of fluoxetine and imipramine on serum total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) as well as body weight (BW) in patients with major depressive disorder.

Methods

Fifty one patients, 18 to 70 years of age, with major depressive disorder complied with the criteria of this preliminary, open-label clinical trial. Subjects received either imipramine (75–200 mg/day) or fluoxetine (20–40 mg/day) for 8 weeks. Total cholesterol and TG levels, as well as BW were compared at baseline with those at weeks 4 and 8. Data was analyzed by SPSS software version 16.0.

Results

In the fluoxetine group, TC levels decreased from 165.71 mg/dL to 156.71 mg/dL at week 4 (P = 0.07), and to 143.94 mg/dL at week 8 (P = 0.16); TG levels decreased from 129.35 mg/dL to 115.88 mg/dL at week 4 (P <0.001), and to 110.41 mg/dL at week 8 (P = 0.56). In the imipramine group, TC levels increased from 169.10 mg/dL to 178.69 mg/dL at week 4 (P = 0.07), and to 208.69 mg/dL at week 8 (P < 0.001) while TG levels increased from 111.73 mg/dL to 128.83 mg/dL at week 4 (P = 0.005), and to 160.90 mg/dL at week 8 (P < 0.001). BW was significantly increased in the imipramine group at weeks 4 and 8. In the fluoxetine group, BW was non-significantly decreased from 75.69 ± 7.97 Kg (baseline) to 75.67 ± 8.01 Kg at week 4 (P = 0.88), and to 75.22 ± 8.67 Kg at week 8 (P = 0.20), while in the imipramine group, BW had significant increases from 72.53 ± 8.55 Kg (baseline) to 73.95 ± 8.61 mg/dL at week 4 (P < 0.001), and to 75.13 ± 8.34 mg/dL at week 8 (P < 0.001).

Repeated measures ANOVA showed significant effects on both TC and TG levels as well as on BW in all patients receiving imipramine. However, in patients on fluoxetine, repeated measures ANOVA showed significant effects of this medication only on TC levels in males.

Conclusions

Monitoring TC and TG and BW is recommended before starting imipramine in depressed patients with increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Fluoxetine may be the preferred agent in those with high or borderline high lipid levels.
The effect of MgO doping on the structural, magnetic, and magnetotransport properties of La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 manganite
Authors: Eshraghi Mahin , Kameli Parviz , Salamati Hadi
Published: January 2013

The effect of MgO doping on the structural, magnetic, and magnetotransport properties of La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 (LSMO)/x MgO has been investigated. All samples were prepared by a solid-state reaction method. Alternating current susceptibility measurements for LSMO/x MgO samples show that the Curie transition temperature (T
c) and magnetization decrease with the increase of MgO concentration. The rate of the decrease of T
c at higher doping level is very fast. Also, samples with low doping level (x ≤ 2) show insulator-metal transition, but the transition temperature decreases and resistivity increases with the amount of MgO. It is observed that there is no insulator-metal transition at higher MgO doping level (x ≥ 3). Also, the results show that the value of low-field magnetoresistance decreases with the increase of MgO doping level. It seems that due to the higher sintering temperature and almost the same ionic radii of Mg2+ and Mn3+, Mg2+ mostly replaced Mn3+ and weakened the double-exchange interaction, and consequently, T
c and magnetoresistance decrease and resistivity increases with MgO doping.
Respiratory syncytial virus infection modifies and accelerates pulmonary disease via DC activation and migration
Authors: Jang Sihyug , Smit Joost , Kallal Lara E , Lukacs Nicholas W
Published: January 2013

In the present studies, we have established that RSV can elicit a more pathogenic environment dependent on improper DC-associated sensitization. Our initial studies demonstrated that RSV, but not influenza, infection during an allergen exposure into the airway induced a more severe allergen response. The RSV-induced exacerbation included an increased Th2 cytokine response and pathophysiology as monitored by AHR and mucus overproduction. DCs played a central role in the allergen-induced responses, as instilling RSV-infected BMDC into the airway could recapitulate a live virus challenge. With the use of CCR6−/− mice that have a primary defect in the recruitment of mDC subsets, reduced exacerbation of disease was observed when RSV was administered along with allergen. Furthermore, sensitization of mice with RSV-infected BMDC into the airway produced a more severe immune response to a live virus challenge. Subsequently, using RSV-infected BMDC from CCR7−/− mice (that do not migrate efficiently to LNs) to sensitize the exacerbated response demonstrated that the response was dependent on DC migration to the LN. Finally, the ability of RSV-infected DCs to elicit an exacerbated, allergen-induced pathogenic response could be maintained for as long as 3 weeks, suggesting that RSV-infected DCs themselves created an altered immune environment that impacts off-target mucosal responses that could have prolonged effects.
Changes in Hypothalamic Expression of the Lin28/let-7 System and Related MicroRNAs During Postnatal Maturation and After Experimental Manipulations of Puberty
Authors: Sangiao-Alvarellos S. , Manfredi-Lozano M. , Ruiz-Pino F. , Navarro V.M. , Sánchez-Garrido M.A. , Leon S. , Dieguez C. , Cordido F. , Matagne V. , Dissen G.A. , Ojeda S.R. , Pinilla L. , Tena-Sempere M.
Published: January 2013

Lin28 and Lin28b are related RNA-binding proteins that inhibit the maturation of miRNAs of the let-7 family and participate in the control of cellular stemness and early embryonic development. Considerable interest has arisen recently concerning other physiological roles of the Lin28/let-7 axis, including its potential involvement in the control of puberty, as suggested by genome-wide association studies and functional genomics. We report herein the expression profiles of Lin28 and let-7 members in the rat hypothalamus during postnatal maturation and in selected models of altered puberty. The expression patterns of c-Myc (upstream positive regulator of Lin28), mir-145 (negative regulator of c-Myc), and mir-132 and mir-9 (putative miRNA repressors of Lin28, predicted by bioinformatic algorithms) were also explored. In male and female rats, Lin28, Lin28b, and c-Myc mRNAs displayed very high hypothalamic expression during the neonatal period, markedly decreased during the infantile-to-juvenile transition and reached minimal levels before/around puberty. A similar puberty-related decline was observed for Lin28b in monkey hypothalamus but not in the rat cortex, suggesting species conservation and tissue specificity. Conversely, let-7a, let-7b, mir-132, and mir-145, but not mir-9, showed opposite expression profiles. Perturbation of brain sex differentiation and puberty, by neonatal treatment with estrogen or androgen, altered the expression ratios of Lin28/let-7 at the time of puberty. Changes in the c-Myc/Lin28b/let-7 pathway were also detected in models of delayed puberty linked to early photoperiod manipulation and, to a lesser extent, postnatal underfeeding or chronic subnutrition. Altogether, our data are the first to document dramatic changes in the expression of the Lin28/let-7 axis in the rat hypothalamus during the postnatal maturation and after different manipulations that disturb puberty, thus suggesting the potential involvement of developmental changes in hypothalamic Lin28/let-7 expression in the mechanisms permitting/leading to puberty onset.
Generic Levothyroxine Compared With Synthroid in Young Children With Congenital Hypothyroidism
Authors: Lomenick Jefferson P. , Wang Lulu , Ampah Steve B. , Saville Benjamin R. , Greenwald Fayrisa I.
Published: January 2013

Context:

Clinicians who prescribe levothyroxine (LT4) for hypothyroidism often feel strongly about using a brand-name drug instead of a generic.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to determine whether Synthroid resulted in better control of congenital hypothyroidism than generic LT4.

Design:

This was a 5-year retrospective study.

Setting:

The study was conducted at 1 tertiary care center.

Patients:

Children who were 0–36 months old with congenital hypothyroidism followed up at our center from 2006 to 2011 were treated with either Synthroid exclusively (35 subjects) or generic LT4 exclusively (27 subjects).

Interventions:

We recorded the subjects' TSH and free T4 measurements, how often their LT4 dose was adjusted, and the duration of follow-up.

Main Outcome Measure:

TSH variance between the groups was measured. Secondary end points were the frequency of LT4 dose changes and the variance in free T4.

Results:

Using the Wilcoxon rank sum test, there was no difference in TSH SD in the Synthroid group compared with the generic group (median 3.0 vs 2.2, P = .27). Using a linear mixed model, children treated with the generic LT4 had lower TSH estimated SD [1.35 with 95% confidence interval (CI) (1.194, 1.526)] than the Synthroid group [1.66 with 95% CI (1.536, 1.803)]. Similarly, no difference was observed in free T4 SD between the groups using the Wilcoxon rank sum test (median 0.29 generic vs 0.36 Synthroid, P = .11), but the generic group had lower free T4 estimated SD than the Synthroid group using the linear mixed model [0.216 with 95% CI (0.187, 0.249) vs 0.298 with 95% CI (0.273,0.326)]. Frequency of LT4 dosing adjustments was similar between the groups, both in total (median 2.0 for generic vs 3.0 for Synthroid, P = .097) and when adjusted for number of TSH checks (ratio 0.25 generic vs 0.31 Synthroid, P = .45).

Conclusions:

In our study of congenital hypothyroidism, generic LT4 treatment resulted in similar or better control of hypothyroidism compared with Synthroid, as assessed by the clinical outcomes of TSH variance and the frequency of LT4 dosing adjustments.
On the Relationship between Disaggregated Energy Production and GDP in Italy
Authors: Magazzino Cosimo
Published: January 2013

This paper tries to assess the relationship between disaggregate energy production and real aggregate income in Italy by undertaking cointegration analyses using annual data from 1883 to 2009. After a brief introduction, a survey of the economic literature on this issue is shown, before discussing the data and introducing some econometric techniques. Stationarity tests reveal that the series are non-stationary, or I(1). Cointegration analyses reveal that there is a long-run relationship between GDP and geothermoelectric production in the 1919–1939 period. Whilst, for the post-war years, we find a cointegration relationship for all sources of energy. Causality tests roughly confirm a bi-directional flow in the long-run, so that energy production and economic growth complement each other, since economic growth may demand more energy, whereas more energy consumption may also induce economic growth.
Application of a Multi-Criteria Analysis Approach for Decision-Making in the Energy Sector: The Case of Concentrating Solar Power in South Africa
Authors: Broughton E.K. , Brent A.C. , Haywood L.
Published: January 2013

The current decision-making processes that are involved in Environmental Impact Assessments in the energy sector of South Africa suffer from, amongst others, the lack of coherence and the integration of the opinions of decision-makers1 in the assessments. The processes also do not adequately evaluate the trade-offs between social, economic, political and environmental issues that are identified for proposed projects, and alternatives if applicable. This paper demonstrates the application of a multi-criteria analysis approach to address these challenges. The application is based on a proposed concentrating solar power plant, for which the Environmental Impact Assessment process has been completed.
Biases in the Australian High Quality Temperature Network
Authors: Stockwell David R.B. , Stewart Kenneth
Published: January 2013

Various reports identify global warming over the last century as around 0.7°C, but warming in Australia at around 0.9°C, suggesting Australia may be warming faster than the rest of the world. This study evaluates potential biases in the High Quality Network (HQN) compiled from 100 rural surface temperature series from 1910 due to: (1) homogeneity adjustments used to correct for changes in location and instrumentation, and (2) the discrimination of urban and rural sites. The approach was to compare the HQN with a new network compiled from raw data using the minimal adjustments necessary to produce contiguous series, called the Minimal Adjustment Network (MAN). The average temperature trend of the MAN stations was 31% lower than the HQN, and by a number of measures, the trend of the Australian MAN is consistent with the global trend. This suggests that biases from these sources have exaggerated apparent Australian warming. Additional problems with the HQN include failure of homogenization procedures to properly identify errors, individual sites adjusted more than the magnitude of putative warming last century, and some sites of such poor quality they should not be used, especially under a “High Quality” banner.
Environmental Impact of an Industrial Compressed Air System with a Solar Powered Compressor in South Africa
Authors: Gouws Rupert
Published: January 2013

Almost 14% of the electricity generated by the national energy supplier (Eskom) in South Africa is sold directly to the mining sector and almost 20% is utilized directly by the compressed air systems of the mining sector. The industrial compressed air systems in South Africa therefore have a substantial impact on the environment in terms of emissions output. In this paper a solar powered compressor is installed parallel to an existing industrial compressed air system. The environmental (emissions) impact and energy consumption of the industrial compressed air system with the solar powered compressor is calculated and the results are provided. It is shown from the results that the solar powered air compressor improved the overall system efficiency and lowered the carbon footprint of the industrial compressed air system. The impact of the energy improvement on the amount of trees required to offset the calculated amount of CO2 is also provided.
The Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Firm Value: The Role of Customer Awareness
Authors: Servaes Henri , Tamayo Ane
Published: January 2013

This paper shows that corporate social responsibility (CSR) and firm value are positively related for firms with high customer awareness, as proxied by advertising expenditures. For firms with low customer awareness, the relation is either negative or insignificant. In addition, we find that the effect of awareness on the CSR–value relation is reversed for firms with a poor prior reputation as corporate citizens. This evidence is consistent with the view that CSR activities can add value to the firm but only under certain conditions.

This paper was accepted by Bruno Cassiman, business strategy.
Teams Make You Smarter: How Exposure to Teams Improves Individual Decisions in Probability and Reasoning Tasks
Authors: Maciejovsky Boris , Sutter Matthias , Budescu David V. , Bernau Patrick
Published: January 2013

Many important decisions are routinely made by transient and temporary teams, which perform their duty and disperse. Team members often continue making similar decisions as individuals. We study how the experience of team decision making affects subsequent individual decisions in two seminal probability and reasoning tasks, the Monty Hall problem and the Wason selection task. Both tasks are hard and involve a general rule, thus allowing for knowledge transfers, and can be embedded in the context of markets that offer identical incentives to teams and individuals. Our results show that teams trade closer to the rational level, learn the solution faster, and achieve this with weaker, less specific performance feedback than individuals. Most importantly, we observe significant knowledge transfers from team decision making to subsequent individual performances that take place up to five weeks later, indicating that exposure to team decision making has strong positive spillovers on the quality of individual decisions.

This paper was accepted by Uri Gneezy, behavioral economics.
Entrepreneurs Under Uncertainty: An Economic Experiment in China
Authors: Holm Hakan J. , Opper Sonja , Nee Victor
Published: January 2013

This study reports findings from the first large-scale experiment investigating whether entrepreneurs differ from other people in their willingness to expose themselves to various forms of uncertainty. A stratified random sample of 700 chief executive officers from the Yangzi delta region in China is compared to 200 control group members. Our findings suggest that in economic decisions, entrepreneurs are more willing to accept strategic uncertainty related to multilateral competition and trust. However, entrepreneurs do not differ from ordinary people when it comes to nonstrategic forms of uncertainty, such as risk and ambiguity.

This paper was accepted by John List, behavioral economics.
Plastics additives and green chemistry
Authors: Beach Evan S. , Weeks Brian R. , Stern Rebecca , Anastas Paul T.
Published: January 2013

The plastics enterprise depends on a small number of commodity polymers to perform in diverse applications, requiring additives to produce desired properties and performance. Toxic effects and environmental persistence of certain additive chemicals impact the sustainability of the industry. Green chemistry has been and will continue to be applied to find solutions to these issues. This review focuses on alternatives to phthalate plasticizers and halogenated flame retardants, two categories that together account for a significant portion of the global additives market and the global dispersion of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Small-molecule alternatives that exist in various stages of research and commercialization will be discussed, with emphasis on the use of renewable resources. The rise of biorefineries and new bio-based monomers may help overcome existing economic barriers to adoption of alternatives. Increasing the molecular weight of additives or covalently linking them to polymer backbones are two promising strategies for reducing both mobility and toxicity that will also be discussed. Finally, the design of new polymers that show desirable properties without the use of additives will be considered. The substances put forward as “green” alternatives have yet to receive the same level of scrutiny as diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP, also known as dioctyl phthalate) or polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). Cooperation between chemists, engineers, and the environmental health community will be critical to ensure the safety and sustainability of new technologies.
Solid State NMR Characterization of Nano-crystalline hydroxy-carbonate Apatite Using 1H-31P-13C Triple Resonance Experiments
Authors: Babonneau Florence , Babonneau Florence , Bonhomme Christian , Hayakawa Satoshi , Osaka Akiyoshi
Published: January 2013

The local structure around hydrogen atoms, phosphate ions and carbonate ions in nano crystalline nonstoichiometric hydroxy-carbonate apatite was investigated in this study. The use of 13C enriched precursors allowed to perform 1D and 2D CP MAS HETCOR (HETeronuclear CORrelation) experiments with 13C as a target spin. 2D triple resonance experiments involving the 1H/13C/31P spins were also performed. All these experiments led to the partial editing of the corresponding projection spectra and revealed fine structural details for the corresponding material. At least four 13C peaks, corresponding to carbonate ions in A sites (OH-) and B-sites (PO43-) were evidenced.
Analysis of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and its receptor (AMHR2) genes in patients with persistent Müllerian duct syndrome
Authors: Nishi Mirian Yumie , Domenice Sorahia , Maciel-Guerra Andréa Trevas , Zaba Neto Alberto , Silva Marcia Alessandra Cavalaro Pereira da , Costa Elaine Maria Frade , Guerra-Junior Gil , Mendonca Berenice Bilharinho de
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE: To screen for mutations in AMH and AMHR2 genes in patients with persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS). PATIENTS AND METHOD: Genomic DNA of eight patients with PMDS was obtained from peripheral blood leukocytes. Directed sequencing of the coding regions and the exon-intron boundaries of AMH and AMHR2 were performed. RESULTS: The AMH mutations p.Arg95*, p.Arg123Trp, c.556-2A>G, and p.Arg502Leu were identified in five patients; and p.Gly323Ser and p.Arg407* in AMHR2 of two individuals. In silico analyses of the novel c.556-2A>G, p.Arg502Leu and p.Arg407* mutations predicted that they were harmful and were possible causes of the disease. CONCLUSION: A likely molecular etiology was found in the eight evaluated patients with PMDS. Four mutations in AMH and two in AMHR2 were identified. Three of them are novel mutations, c.556-2A>G, and p.Arg502Leu in AMH; and p.Gly323Ser in AMHR2. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(8):473-8
Association of the rs7903146 single nucleotide polymorphism at the Transcription Factor 7-like 2 (TCF7L2) locus with type 2 diabetes in Brazilian subjects
Authors: Barra Gustavo Barcelos , Dutra Ludmila Alves Sanches , Watanabe Sílvia Conde , Costa Patrícia Godoy Garcia , Cruz Patrícia Sales Marques da , Azevedo Monalisa Ferreira , Amato Angélica Amorim
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE:To investigate the association of the T allele of the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs7903146 of TCF7L2 with the occurrence of T2D in a sample of subjects followed up at the Brasilia University Hospital. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The SNP rs7903146 of TCF7L2 was genotyped by allele-specific PCR in 113 patients with known T2D and in 139 non-diabetic controls in Brasilia, Brazil. RESULTS:We found that the T allele of the SNP rs7903146 of TCF7L2 was significantly associated with T2D risk (odds ratio of 3.92 for genotype TT in the recessive genetic model, p = 0.004 and 1.5 for T allele, p = 0.032). CONCLUSION:These results reinforce previous findings on the consistent association of this genetic factor and the risk of T2D in populations of diverse ethnic backgrounds. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(8):479-84
Hyperinsulinism/hyperammonemia (HI/HA) syndrome due to a mutation in the glutamate dehydrogenase gene
Authors: Corrêa-Giannella Maria Lúcia , Freire Daniel Soares , Cavaleiro Ana Mercedes , Fortes Maria Angela Zanella , Giorgi Ricardo Rodrigues , Pereira Maria Adelaide Albergaria
Published: January 2013

The hyperinsulinism/hyperammonemia (HI/HA) syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disease manifested by hypoglycemic symptoms triggered by fasting or high-protein meals, and by elevated serum ammonia. HI/HA is the second most common cause of hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia of infancy, and it is caused by activating mutations in GLUD1, the gene that encodes mitochondrial enzyme glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH). Biochemical evaluation, as well as direct sequencing of exons and exon-intron boundary regions of the GLUD1 gene, were performed in a 6-year old female patient presenting fasting hypoglycemia and hyperammonemia. The patient was found to be heterozygous for one de novo missense mutation (c.1491A>G; p.Il497Met) previously reported in a Japanese patient. Treatment with diazoxide 100 mg/day promoted complete resolution of the hypoglycemic episodes. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(8):485-9
A novel DAX1/NR0B1 mutation in a patient with adrenal hypoplasia congenita and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
Authors: Battistin Claudilene , Menezes Filho Hamilton Cabral de , Domenice Sorahia , Nishi Mirian Yumie , Della Manna Thais , Kuperman Hilton , Steinmetz Leandra , Dichtchekenian Vaê , Setian Nuvarte , Damiani Durval
Published: January 2013

We report a case of adrenal hypoplasia congenita (AHC) and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) due to a novel DAX1 mutation. A 19-month-old boy with hyperpigmentation and failure to thrive came to our service for investigation. Three brothers of the patient had died due to adrenal failure, and a maternal cousin had adrenal insufficiency. Adrenoleukodystrophy was excluded. MRI showed normal pituitary and hypothalamus. Plasma hormone evaluation revealed high ACTH (up to 2,790 pg/mL), and low levels of androstenedione, DHEA-S, 11-deoxycortisol, and cortisol. At 14 years of age the patient was still prepubescent, his weight was 43.6 kg (SDS: -0.87) and his height was 161 cm (SDS: -0.36), with normal body proportions. In the GnRH test, basal and maximum values of LH and FSH were respectively 0.6/2.1 and < 1.0/< 1.0 U/L. Molecular investigation identified a novel mutation that consists of a deletion of codon 372 (AAC; asparagine) in exon 1 of DAX1. This mutation was not found in a study of 200 alleles from normal individuals. Prediction site analysis indicated that this alteration, located in the DAX1 ligand-binding domain, may damage DAX1 protein. We hypothesize that the novel (p.Asp372del) DAX1 mutation might be able to cause a disruption of DAX1 function, and is probably involved in the development of AHC and HH in this patient. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(8):496-500
Incidental mild hyperglycemia in children: two MODY 2 families identified in Brazilian subjects
Authors: Caetano Lílian A. , Jorge Alexander A. L. , Malaquias Alexsandra C. , Trarbach Ericka B. , Queiroz Márcia S. , Nery Márcia , Teles Milena G.
Published: January 2013

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is characterized by an autosomal dominant mode of inheritance, early onset of hyperglycemia, and defects of insulin secretion. MODY subtypes described present genetic, metabolic, and clinical differences. MODY 2 is characterized by mild asymptomatic fasting hyperglycemia, and rarely requires pharmacological treatment. Hence, precise diagnosis of MODY is important for determining management and prognosis. We report two heterozygous GCK mutations identified during the investigation of short stature. Case 1: a prepubertal 14-year-old boy was evaluated for constitutional delay of growth and puberty. During follow-up, he showed abnormal fasting glucose (113 mg/dL), increased level of HbA1c (6.6%), and negative β-cell antibodies. His father and two siblings also had slightly elevated blood glucose levels. The mother had normal glycemia. A GCK heterozygous missense mutation, p.Arg191Trp, was identified in the proband. Eighteen family members were screened for this mutation, and 11 had the mutation in heterozygous state. Case 2: a 4-year-old boy investigated for short stature revealed no other laboratorial alterations than elevated glycemia (118 mg/dL); β-cell antibodies were negative. His father, a paternal aunt, and the paternal grandmother also had slightly elevated glycemia, whereas his mother had normal glycemia. A GCK heterozygous missense mutation, p.Glu221Lys, was identified in the index patient and in four family members. All affected patients had mild elevated glycemia. Individuals with normal glycemia did not harbor mutations. GCK mutation screening should be considered in patients with chronic mild early-onset hyperglycemia, family history of impaired glycemia, and negative β-cell antibodies. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(8):519-24
Novel mutation in the gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor (GNRHR) gene in a patient with normosmic isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
Authors: Beneduzzi Daiane , Trarbach Ericka B. , Latronico Ana Claudia , Mendonca Berenice Bilharinho de , Silveira Letícia F. G.
Published: January 2013

We report a novel GNRHR mutation in a male with normosmic isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nIHH). The coding region of the GNRHR gene was amplified and sequenced. Three variants p.[Asn10Lys;Gln11Lys]; [Tyr283His] were identified in the GNRHR coding region in a male with sporadic complete nIHH. The three variants were absent in the controls (130 normal adults). Familial segregation showed that the previously described p.Asn10Lys and p.Gln11Lys are in the same allele, in compound heterozygozity with the novel variant p.Tyr283His. The p.[Asn10Lys;Gln11Lys] are known inactivating mutations. The p.Tyr283His affects a well-conserved residue, and in silico analysis suggested it is a deleterious variant. We describe a novel GNRHR mutation in a male with nIHH. Absence of the mutation in the control group, conservation among species, in silico analysis, and familial segregation suggest that p.Tyr283His, which was identified in compound heterozygozity with the p.[Asn10Lys;Gln11Lys] variants, is an inactivating mutation. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(8):540-4
Transient neonatal hypothyroidism in a boy with unbalanced translocation t(8;16)
Authors: Secchi Luciana A. de A. , Mazzeu Juliana F. , Córdoba Mara Santos , Ferrari Íris , Ramos Helton Estrela , Neves Francisco de Assis Rocha
Published: January 2013

Genetic defects resulting in deficiency of thyroid hormone synthesis can be found in about 10% of the patients with permanent congenital hypothyroidism, but the identification of genetic abnormalities in association with the transient form of the disease is extremely rare. We report the case of a boy with transient neonatal hypothyroidism that was undiagnosed in the neonatal screening, associated with extrathyroid malformations and mental retardation. The boy carries an unbalanced translocation t(8;16), and his maternal uncle had a similar phenotype. Chromosomal analysis defined the patient's karyotype as 46,XY,der(8)t(8;16)(q24.3;q22)mat,16qh+. Array-CGH with patient's DNA revealed a ~80 kb terminal deletion on chromosome 8q24.3qter, and a ~21 Mb duplication on chromosome 16q22qter. ZNF252 gene, mapped to the deleted region on patient's chromosome 8, is highly expressed in the thyroid, and may be a candidate gene for our patient's transient neonatal thyroid dysfunction. This is the first report on the association of a chromosomal translocation with the transient form of congenital hypothyroidism. This description creates new hypothesis for the physiopathology of transient congenital hypothyroidism, and may also contribute to the definition of the unbalanced translocation t(8;16)(q24.3;q22) phenotype, which has never been described before. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(8):564-9
Oncogenic osteomalacia: loss of hypophosphatemia might be the key to avoid misdiagnosis
Authors: Chang Claudia V. , Conde Sandro J. , Luvizotto Renata A. M. , Nunes Vânia S. , Bonates Milla C. , Felicio Andre C. , Lindsey Susan C. , Moraes Flávia H. , Tagliarini José V. , Mazeto Glaucia M. F. S. , Kopp Peter , Nogueira Célia R.
Published: January 2013

Diagnosing oncogenic osteomalacia is still a challenge. The disorder is characterized by osteomalacia caused by renal phosphate wasting and low serum concentration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 occurring in the presence of a tumor that produces high levels of fibroblast growth factor 23. However, it is possible that the disease is much more misdiagnosed than rare. We present the case of a 42-year-old man with a long-term history of undiagnosed progressive muscle weakness. His laboratory results mainly showed low serum phosphate. Surgical removal of a nasal hemangiopericytoma that had been diagnosed five years earlier, brought him to a symptom-free condition. Even though knowing the underlying etiology would explain his osteomalacia, the patient sought medical help from countless physicians for five consecutive years, and only after adequate treatment a rewarding outcome was achieved. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(8):570-3
Translation and cultural adaptation of the Game Dice Task to Brazilian population
Authors: Rzezak Patricia , Antunes Hanna Karen Moreira , Tufik Sérgio , Mello Marco Túlio de
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE: The Game Dice Task (GDT) was developed to measure decision making under known risk. The aim of this study was to translate and adapt the GDT to a Brazilian population. METHOD: After the GDT was translated and back-translated to Brazilian Portuguese and evaluated by eight bilingual judges, 175 Brazilian adults were divided into two groups - 160 healthy volunteers and 15 traumatic brain injury (TBI) patients - and had completed the GDT. RESULTS: Differences between genders, but not age, were observed in the healthy volunteer sample. Males more frequently chose a combination of three dice while females preferred four dice. TBI patients were more impulsive than healthy volunteers; they less frequently chose a combination of three dice and made more risky decisions. CONCLUSION: Because of the rigorous process used to translate and adapt the GDT and the differences observed between patients with TBI and healthy volunteers, the Brazilian GDT was considered satisfactory for research purposes.
Is the patent foramen ovale closure the best option?
Authors: Zetola Viviane Flumignan , Silva Melissa Castello Branco e , Lange Marcos Christiano , Muzzio Juliano Andre , Novak Edison Matos , Moraes Admar , Werneck Lineu Cesar
Published: January 2013

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure is indicated in some cases to protect patients against embolic events. The aim of this study was to certify that the method of PFO closure to prevent microemboli (MES) is reliable, using contrast enhanced transcranial Doppler (cTCD) as a diagnostic and follow-up tool. METHODS: cTCD was performed before and after PFO closure in 20 patients. Results obtained a minimum of 12 months after the procedure were analyzed in this study. RESULTS: After the procedure, 14 patients (82%) showed no microemboli in cTCD at rest, but after provocative Valsalva maneuver (VM) microembolic phenomenon were still detected in 14 (70%): 7 (35%) <10 MES, 3 (15%) 10-20 MES and 4 (20%) had more than 20 MES ("curtain"). Only six of the total patients presented no MES in both resting and VM. CONCLUSION: These results showed a large percentage of patients with MES detection in a bubble study with transcranial Doppler more than one year after the procedure of PFO closure, showing right-to-left residual shunting. Despite the small number of patients, this study provides important data about this therapeutic decision.
Coberturas vegetais, doses de nitrogênio e inoculação de sementes com Azospirillum brasilense em arroz de terras altas no sistema plantio direto
Authors: Gitti Douglas de Castilho , Arf Orivaldo , Portugal José Roberto , Corsini Daiene Camila Dias Chaves , Rodrigues Ricardo Antônio Ferreira , Kaneko Flávio Hiroshi
Published: January 2013

O arroz é importante fonte de energia e proteínas para a população mundial, principalmente na Ásia e Oceania. No Brasil, juntamente com o feijão, constitui a base da alimentação. Tecnologias sustentáveis que reduzam custos da produção e aumentem a produtividade do arroz podem garantir seu suprimento em períodos de alta demanda. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar diferentes coberturas vegetais antecessoras (milheto [Pennisetum americanum], crotalária [Crotalaria juncea], guandu [Cajanus cajan], braquiária [Brachiaria ruziziensis], milheto + crotalária e milheto + guandu), doses de nitrogênio (N) em cobertura (0, 40, 80 e 120 kg ha-1) e o efeito da inoculação de sementes com Azospirillum brasilense no arroz de terras altas em sistema plantio direto no desenvolvimento e na produtividade. Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial 6x4x2 com quatro repetições. O estudo foi desenvolvido em um Latossolo Vermelho, em Selvíria, Estado do Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil, em 2011/2012. O cultivo do guandu antecedendo o arroz proporcionou maior produtividade do arroz somente em comparação a B. ruziziensi. A produtividade do arroz em função das doses de N em cobertura se ajustou a uma função quadrática. Não houve influência da inoculação de sementes com A. brasilense sobre a produtividade do arroz, porém houve interação entre a inoculação e as coberturas vegetais sobre o teor de N foliar, número de panículas por m², matéria seca de plantas de arroz e a massa de cem grãos.
Occurrence of new species of mealybug on cotton fields in the states of Bahia and Paraíba, Brazil
Authors: Silva Carlos Alberto Domingues da
Published: January 2013

The cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) has been reported occurring in several countries causing severe losses in economically important crops, including cotton. Based on information reported by farmers in the regions of the Southwest and Middle São Francisco, Bahia and also in the regions of the Agreste and Semi-arid of the Paraiba State, high infestations of cotton mealybugs have occurred in these regions during the cotton season of 2007 and 2008. The cotton mealybug was identified as P. solenopsis and this represents the first record of this insect attacking cotton in Brazil.
Mudanças conceituais do desenvolvimento rural e suas influências nas políticas públicas
Authors: Freitas Alan Ferreira de , Freitas Alair Ferreira de , Dias Marcelo Miná
Published: January 2013

Novas referências conceituais sobre o "rural" passaram gradativamente a ser incorporadas, ainda que de modo parcial e contraditório, pelas políticas públicas. Considerando esse pressuposto, investiga-se neste trabalho de que forma as políticas públicas de desenvolvimento rural, no Brasil, nas últimas décadas, respondem, em termos de sua formulação, a determinadas inovações conceituais. Para sustentar esse argumento, investigam-se, à luz de um denso estudo bibliográfico sobre desenvolvimento, ruralidade e políticas públicas, as mudanças históricas, conceituais e práticas do desenvolvimento rural. Com a pesquisa foi possível não só identificar as "novas" referências do desenvolvimento rural e da operacionalização das políticas públicas, mas também as mudanças institucionais nesse processo. As considerações finais mostram que as mudanças nas concepções teóricas sobre o rural e o desenvolvimento rural foram substancialmente importantes para promover uma mudança de perspectiva na ação do Estado.