bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Monitor units are not predictive of neutron dose for high-energy IMRT
Authors: Hälg Roger A , Besserer Jürgen , Boschung Markus , Mayer Sabine , Schneider Uwe
Published: August 2012

Background

Due to the substantial increase in beam-on time of high energy intensity-modulated radiotherapy (>10 MV) techniques to deliver the same target dose compared to conventional treatment techniques, an increased dose of scatter radiation, including neutrons, is delivered to the patient. As a consequence, an increase in second malignancies may be expected in the future with the application of intensity-modulated radiotherapy. It is commonly assumed that the neutron dose equivalent scales with the number of monitor units.

Methods

Measurements of neutron dose equivalent were performed for an open and an intensity-modulated field at four positions: inside and outside of the treatment field at 0.2 cm and 15 cm depth, respectively.

Results

It was shown that the neutron dose equivalent, which a patient receives during an intensity-modulated radiotherapy treatment, does not scale with the ratio of applied monitor units relative to an open field irradiation. Outside the treatment volume at larger depth 35% less neutron dose equivalent is delivered than expected.

Conclusions

The predicted increase of second cancer induction rates from intensity-modulated treatment techniques can be overestimated when the neutron dose is simply scaled with monitor units.
Effect of culture conditions on growth, lipid content, and fatty acid composition of Aurantiochytrium mangrovei strain BL10
Authors: Chaung Kai-Chuang , Chu Chun-Yao , Su Yu-Ming , Chen Yi-Min
Published: August 2012

This study explored the influence of various culture conditions on the biomass, lipid content, production of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and fatty acid composition of Aurantiochytrium mangrovei strain BL10. The variables examined in this study include the species and concentration of salt, the concentrations of the two substrates glucose and yeast extract, the level of dissolved oxygen, the cerulenin treatment, and the stages of BL10 growth. Our results demonstrate that BL10 culture produces maximum biomass when salinity levels are between 0.2 and 3.0%. Decreasing salinity to 0.1% resulted in a considerable decrease in the biomass, lipid content, DHA production, and DHA to palmitic acid (PA) (DHA/PA) ratio, signifying deterioration in the quality of the oil produced. The addition of 0.9% sodium sulfate to replenish salinity from 0.1% to 1.0% successfully recovered biomass, lipid content and DHA production levels; however, this also led to a decrease in DHA/PA ratio. An increase in oxygen and cerulenin levels resulted in a concomitant decrease in the DHA to docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) (DHA/DPA) ratio in BL10 oil. Furthermore, the DHA/DPA and DHA/PA ratios varied considerably before and after the termination of cell division, which occurred around the 24 hour mark. These results could serve as a foundation for elucidating the biochemistry underlying the accumulation of lipids, and a definition of the extrinsic (environmental or nutritional) and intrinsic (cell growth stage) factors that influence lipid quality and the production of DHA by BL10.
Evidence for an impact origin of the Late Ordovician Bear Swamp structure in upstate New York, USA
Authors: Leiphart Dan
Published: August 2012

A 3D seismic survey has imaged a complex crater of possible impact origin in the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York near Bear Swamp State Forest. The Bear Swamp crater is uppermost Ordovician (∼444 Ma) in age and is completely buried in the subsurface at a depth of approximately 1220 m (4000 ft). The nearly circular crater is about 3.5 km (2.2 mi) in diameter and contains a central rebound structure with a diameter of about 1 km (0.6 mi). Two exploration wells were drilled into the crater and core and image-log data were obtained. The first well tested the central rebound which consisted of steeply dipping beds and heavily brecciated zones as seen on the image logs. The second well tested the flank of the central uplift in the roughly 300 m (1000 ft) thick annular basin. Thin sections taken from whole core recovered in the second well revealed planar deformation features (PDF) in quartz grains within the reworked crater fill sediments. Minor gas shows were encountered at the base of the crater fill section in the second well, and both wells encountered significant gas shows in the fractured target rock beneath the crater. Both macroscopic and microscopic evidence from the seismic and well data suggest this could have been the site of a meteor impact in a shallow marine to transition zone environment at the end of the Ordovician Period.
Precise mapping using ground-penetrating radar of a Roman villa at Thalerhof Airport, Graz, Austria: Verification and modification of an excavation-based model
Authors: Morawetz Rainer , Eichkitz Christoph Georg , Amtmann Johannes , Heymans Hannes
Published: August 2012

In the early 1930s, the remains of several buildings from the Roman era were found in the vicinity of Thalerhof Airport in Graz, Austria. Some years later (1937–1939) an archaeological excavation (Figure 1) in the area around the current airport found one of the largest Roman-aged villas of the eastern Alpine region. The excavation results were documented and a map of the buildings was drawn. However, during World War II, most of the documents were lost.
Multimethod geophysical investigations at an Inupiaq village site in Kobuk Valley, Alaska
Authors: Urban Thomas M. , Anderson Douglas D. , Anderson Wanni W.
Published: August 2012

Situated on the bank of the Kobuk River, the contact-period village site of Igliqtiqsiugvigruaq in northwest Alaska boasts a number of large, unexcavated house pits and storage pits visible as surface depressions. In 2010, an electromagnetic survey undertaken across most of this sprawling village revealed several features important to the archaeological interpretation of the site, including a likely area of intense, widespread burning and a possible dog yard location. Additional surveying, undertaken in 2011 with magnetic gradiometry and ground-penetrating radar, revealed the locations of hearths and other aspects of the internal structures of select dwellings and storage pits. These noninvasive geophysical strategies were used to supplement and guide excavation and geochemical prospecting at the site. The geophysical surveys are discussed, contexualized with excavation results and oral history. The efforts described here demonstrate that a great deal of information can be gathered noninvasively when geophysical methods are properly situated as part of a holistic approach to archaeological site investigation, thereby reducing the need for extensive excavation. Certain limitations associated with surveying a densely forested site are also highlighted.
Political violence and mental health in Nepal: prospective study
Authors: Kohrt Brandon A. , Hruschka Daniel J. , Worthman Carol M. , Kunz Richard D. , Baldwin Jennifer L. , Upadhaya Nawaraj , Acharya Nanda Raj , Koirala Suraj , Thapa Suraj B. , Tol Wietse A. , Jordans Mark J. D. , Robkin Navit , Dev Sharma Vidya , Nepal Mahendra K.
Published: August 2012

Background

Post-conflict mental health studies in low-income countries have lacked pre-conflict data to evaluate changes in psychiatric morbidity resulting from political violence.

Aims

This prospective study compares mental health before and after exposure to direct political violence during the People's War in Nepal.

Method

An adult cohort completed the Beck Depression Inventory and Beck Anxiety Inventory in 2000 prior to conflict violence in their community and in 2007 after the war.

Results

Of the original 316 participants, 298 (94%) participated in the post-conflict assessment. Depression increased from 30.9 to 40.6%. Anxiety increased from 26.2 to 47.7%. Post-conflict post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) was 14.1%. Controlling for ageing, the depression increase was not significant. The anxiety increase showed a dose–response association with conflict exposure when controlling for ageing and daily stressors. No demographic group displayed unique vulnerability or resilience to the effects of conflict exposure.

Conclusions

Conflict exposure should be considered in the context of other types of psychiatric risk factors. Conflict exposure predicted increases in anxiety whereas socioeconomic factors and non-conflict stressful life events were the major predictors of depression. Research and interventions in postconflict settings therefore should consider differential trajectories for depressionv.anxiety and the importance of addressing chronic social problems ranging from poverty to gender and ethnic/caste discrimination.
Direct Polymerization of Poly(acrylic acid) on a Silicon-wafer Surface
Authors: Lee Hoik , Kim Donghyun , Sohn Daewon
Published: August 2012

This study examines the direct preparation of poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) on a silicon wafer modified by γ-ray radiation. Using this innovative method, we synthesized PAA on a silicon wafer without additive material because the silicon-wafer itself acts as an initiator. The reaction time was adjusted to control the thickness of PAA on the silicon wafer.
Histone-like Protein HCcp3-induced Liquid Crystalline DNA Condensation
Authors: Sun Shiyong , Wong Joseph T Y , Dong Faqin , Liu Mingxue
Published: August 2012

From prokaryotes to eukaryotes, the DNA condensation process by basic proteins is essential to store the genome in vivo. The surface charge inversion with a DNA/HCcp3 charge ratio of 0.7/1 indicates a role for HCcp3-mediated counter ion-driven mechanism in DNA condensation. The formation of the cholesteric liquid-crystalline phase of DNA–HCcp3 complexes occurred when DNA charges were neutralized. The results suggest that DNA condensation processes by HCcp3 can be divided into two distinctive binding stages: the first state, prior to condensation, involves an entropy-driven binding process of HCcp3 to the DNA, while the second state is an electrostatically driven condensing and assembling process.
Utility of high-resolution ultrasonography and colour Doppler in the assessment of pigmented skin lesions
Authors: Mandava Anitha , Konathan Rajyalaxmi , Neelala Krishnaveni
Published: August 2012

Introduction

This study evaluated the role of high-resolution ultrasonography in the assessment of pigmented skin lesions in correlation with clinico-pathological findings to predict malignant potential with high sensitivity and specificity.

Methods

A prospective cross-sectional study was carried out in 124 cases of pigmented skin lesions by using variable frequency (6–18 MHz) high-resolution ultrasonography and colour Doppler over a period of 14 months in Central Hospital, South Central Railway, Hyderabad, India. The correlation between sonographic parameters (greyscale imaging characteristics and vascular flow on colour Doppler) and pathological parameters (malignant and benign) were statistically analysed.

Results

For predicting malignancy, the presence of vascular flow on colour Doppler had good overall accuracy, specificity and negative predictive value but relatively low sensitivity and positive predictive value (respectively, 91%, 94%, 94%, 81% and 78%). However, greyscale imaging characteristics to predict malignancy had low overall accuracy, specificity and positive predictive value but high sensitivity and negative predictive value (respectively, 54%, 34%, 26%, 85% and 89%). There was a significant positive association between vascular flow on Doppler and malignancy ( P = 0.0001) but the correlation between greyscale imaging findings and malignancy is not statistically significant ( P = 0.0603 ).

Conclusions

High-resolution sonographic imaging is useful in non-invasive monitoring of pigmented lesions at risk and screening of pigmented lesions suspected of malignancy to give relevant information about the extent and nature of the disease and to stratify the high risk cases for surveillance and planning of the treatment.
An investigation of sonographers unaffected by work-related musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Gibbs Vivien , Edwards Hazel
Published: August 2012

There is much concern amongst sonographers that reported cases of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) seem to be increasing at an alarming rate. Various studies have been published quoting high incidences within the profession, but there is a dearth of contemporary, robust evidence.

Within the profession, anecdotal evidence suggests that a number of sonographers have been practising full-time for a number of years without experiencing any symptoms of WRMSD. In order to explore this phenomenon in more detail, a small study was undertaken looking at 22 sonographers. It was anticipated that those who have avoided the condition may offer examples of preventative strategies which could be shared within the profession.

Several common themes were identified which may be protecting some of them from developing WRMSD, however, not all the findings were common to all participants. It appears that the avoidance of, as well as the development of, WRMSD is multifactorial. A high sense of personal well-being, high levels of job satisfaction and a responsive posture may be linked with avoiding WRMSD. The main learning points from this study appear to be the importance for sonographers taking responsibility for themselves, and of maintaining a constant awareness of potential problems. We recommend that, based on the experiences of our participants, sonographers experiment with different approaches at an individual level to find what works for them.
The Impact of Health Service Provider Agreeableness on Care Quality Variation
Authors: Teng Ching-I , Hsu Wen-Hsin
Published: August 2012

Variation of customer-perceived care quality may trigger customer complaints, negative word of mouth, and reduced revisit behavior; for health services especially, this area warrants additional research. This study investigates whether health service provider agreeableness is related to the variation of customer-perceived care quality. Questionnaires were sent to health service providers and customers in two medical centers. In total, 411 sets of responses were collected, with each one comprising the responses of a health service provider and three customers. Data were analyzed using regression analyses. Agreeableness was negatively related to the variation of customer-perceived care quality in terms of reliability, responsiveness, assurance, empathy, and tangibles. Therefore, health service managers should enhance personnel agreeableness by providing on-the-job training courses and role models.
Organic chemistry under hydrothermal conditions
Authors: Avola Sabine , Guillot Marie , da Silva-Perez Denilson , Pellet-Rostaing Stephane , Kunz Werner , Goettmann Frédéric
Published: August 2012

At elevated temperature, several properties of water are strongly altered compared to what our daily experience tells us: the dielectric constant of water, for example, is reduced, so that water can more easily solubilize organic molecules. In addition, the self-dissociation constant of water is increased (by three orders of magnitude at 250 °C), thus favoring H+- and OH–-catalyzed reactions. Surprisingly, while room-temperature water and supercritical water (SCW) are well known for promoting organic reactions, the middle temperature range still remains largely unexplored. Therefore, this contribution aims at giving an overview of organic reactions that may be promoted by superheated water.
Advances in cationic photopolymerization
Authors: Sangermano Marco
Published: August 2012

This review discusses cationic UV-curing processes of vinyl ethers, propenyl ethers, and epoxy monomers. Cationic photopolymerization based on photogeneration of acid from onium salts induced by UV light and consecutive polymerization initiated by photogenerated acid was first proposed at the end of the 1970s. The process engendered high interest both in academia and in industry. Cationic photoinduction presents some advantages over comparable radical-mediated processes, particularly the absence of inhibition by oxygen, low shrinkage, and good adhesion, and mechanical properties of the UV-cured materials. Moreover, the monomers employed are generally less toxic and irritant than acrylates and methacrylates, which are widely used in radical photopolymerization. In this overview, particular emphasis is given to our recent contributions to the field of cationic photopolymerization for different classes of monomers.
Ramsay Hunt syndrome
Authors: Kui Róbert , Bata-Csörgő Zsuzsanna , Zeher Margit , Kemény Lajos
Published: August 2012

Ramsay Hunt syndrome is a special form of herpes zoster which is typically characterized by peripheral facial palsy and unilateral herpetic vesicles on the ear. These symptoms are often accompanied by vestibulocochlear dysfunction and other neurological and ophthalmological symptoms. The diagnosis and therapy requires a multidisciplinary approach. The authors present a typical case where the early administration of combined antiviral and systemic corticosteroid therapy led to complete recovery. The authors emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and adequate combination therapy, which improves the prognosis of this disease. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1281–1283.
Review of genetic research and testing in sport
Authors: Marosi Krisztina , Horváth Endre , Nagy Péter , Köles Bernadett , Nagy Zsolt B.
Published: August 2012

There is compelling evidence for a genetic contribution to physical performance. In addition, there is an advanced scientific knowledge on the predisposition to sports-related diseases and injuries. Genetic testing of performance related polymorphisms can serve as a new opportunity for developing the process of talent selection. Sport-related genetic information may also allow for individualization of the training and improve performance. Genetic testing may also play an important role in the pre-participation screening for injuries and disease risks. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1247–1255.
Uso do retalho nasogeniano musculocutâneo em ilha, por via submandibular, na reconstrução do soalho da boca
Authors: Ramos Gyl Henrique Albrecht , Oliveira Benedito Valdecir de , Rapoport Abrão
Published: August 2012

O retalho nasogeniano com pedículo inferior tem sido utilizado, por via transbucal (supramandibular), na reconstrução do soalho da boca. A descrição da técnica de confecção do retalho nasogeniano musculocutâneo em ilha por via submandibular e a viabilidade do mesmo, tendo-se como parâmetro a necrose do retalho, são os objetivos deste estudo. Complementarmente, fez-se uma avaliação da mobilidade da língua, da capacidade de articulação dos fonemas orais no pós-operatório e procurou-se identificar através de análise estatística os fatores que pudessem estar correlacionados com a necrose do retalho. Foram operados nove pacientes considerados como T2, cinco como T3 e três como T4, sendo que todos foram submetidos a algum tipo de esvaziamento cervical. Dos dezessete retalhos, um teve necrose total, e outro, necrose parcial, proporcionando uma viabilidade de 88,3%. Em nenhum dos casos ocorreu fístula orocutânea. A avaliação da mobilidade da língua e da capacidade de articulação dos fonemas orais demonstrou resultados próximos do normal.
Avaliação da hernioplastia protética atensional no tratamento das hérnias inguinais
Authors: Strassmann Victor , Santoro Sérgio , Malzoni Carlos Eduardo , Velhote Manoel Carlos Prieto , Macedo Maurício , Posso Irimar de Paula
Published: August 2012

Apresentam-se 76 pacientes operados devido a hérnias inguinais, com o uso rotineiro de telas de polipropilene colocadas sobre a fascia transversalis, em correção sem tensão, através de uma inguinotomia transversa pequena (média de 6cm). Doze pacientes foram operados bilateralmente, perfazendo 88 intervenções. Entre as intervenções, cinqüenta foram sobre hérnias inguinais indiretas (56,8%), 15 sobre hérnias associadas diretas e indiretas (17,1 %), e 23 sobre hérnias diretas (26,1%). Praticamente não houve queixas de dor à exceção da dor superficial. Não houve nenhum caso de infecção ou rejeição. Nenhum paciente referiu sentir a sua presença. Após dois dias, os pacientes foram liberados de qualquer tipo de restrição física ou esportiva. Não há qualquer evidência sugestiva de recidiva. Tempo médio de seguimento de trinta meses. Discute-se a técnica empregada. A HIPA é técnica fácil, rápida, de custo baixo, não exige anestesia geral nem materiais especiais, com baixos índices de recidiva e, por não implicar suturas sob tensão, permite restabelecimento pronto, com mínima dor e sem restrições físicas.
Filtro de veia cava: uma década de experiência em um centro de trauma nível I
Authors: Reys Luiz Guilherme Cintra Vidal , Coimbra Raul , Fortlage Dale
Published: August 2012

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os dados relativos à utilização de filtro de veia cava na Divisão de Trauma do Centro Médico da UCSD San Diego, CA/EUA. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo realizado na Divisão de Trauma visando avaliar a experiência acumulada e a conduta terapêutica nos doentes atendidos pela equipe da Divisão de Trauma e submetidos à colocação de filtro de veia cava como método de prevenção ou tratamento do TEP no período de janeiro de 1999 a dezembro de 2008. RESULTADOS: O estudo compreendeu 512 doentes, destacando-se o sexo masculino (73%). Quanto à causa do traumatismo predominou o acidente automobilístico, seguido por lesões provocadas por quedas. A relação homem/mulher foi 3:1. A faixa etária mais atingida foi 21 a 40 anos, representando 36% dos doentes. O percentual de filtros de cava profiláticos foi de 82% contra 18% de filtros terapêuticos. O traumatismo craniano foi a principal causa para indicação de filtros profiláticos seguido dos traumas raquimedulares. O índice de TVP pós-filtro foi 11%. CONCLUSÃO: Na presença de contraindicação ao uso de anticoagulantes em doentes vítimas de trauma grave, os filtros de veia cava inferior demonstraram ser uma opção efetiva e segura. Entretanto, deve-se aplicar rigor ao julgamento clínico para todas as indicações, mesmo após o advento de filtros "recuperáveis".
Análise epidemiológica e emprego do teste rápido da urease em pacientes com úlcera péptica perfurada
Authors: Casali Jairo Júnior , Franzon Orli , Kruel Nicolau Fernandes , Neves Bruno Duarte
Published: August 2012

OBJETIVO: Analisar o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes com úlcera péptica gastroduodenal perfurada e verificar se a presença do H. pylori nas secreções peritoneais e intraluminais desses pacientes pode ser avaliada pelo teste rápido da urease. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo prospectivo, transversal, descritivo, com dados de pacientes atendidos em um hospital de abrangência regional, em portadores de úlcera péptica perfurada. Coletou-se, no transoperatório, amostras de líquido peritoneal (na proximidade da perfuração) e da secreção intraluminal, sendo encaminhadas para cultura e teste rápido de urease. RESULTADOS: Quatorze pacientes foram analisados. A média etária foi 41,06 anos, todos homens, brancos (71,4%), tabagistas (57,2%), IMC < 30 (85,7%), com história prévia de dispepsia (78,6%). Sorologia para H. pylori foi positiva em 84,6% dos casos. O teste rápido da urease foi positivo em 78,6% das amostras do tubo digestivo e em 42,8% das amostras da cavidade peritoneal; 41,6% foram positivos em ambos os locais, 50% somente na cavidade digestiva e 8,4% exclusivamente na cavidade peritoneal. Dos 11 pacientes com sorologia positiva para H. pylori 100% apresentaram positividade em pelo menos um dos sítios pesquisados. CONCLUSÃO: Verificou-se que a incidência foi menor que a esperada. Há associação significativa entre a infecção pelo H. pylori e a ocorrência de perfuração. A presença deste patógeno pode ser avaliada tanto pela sorologia quanto pela realização do teste rápido da urease do fluido coletado na cavidade peritoneal e na luz gástrica/duodenal.
Efeitos da remoção da túnica adventícia da aorta descendente em suínos
Authors: Fagundes Almondi , Pereira Adamastor Humberto , Corrêa Rose Karina , Oliveira Marília Teresa de , Rodriguez Rubens
Published: August 2012

OBJETIVO: Investigar os efeitos da remoção da adventícia da aorta em suínos. MÉTODOS: O experimento foi realizado com oito suínos. Removeu-se a camada adventícia da aorta descendente. Após a eutanásia com duas, quatro, seis e oito semanas, o segmento aórtico era removido. Após, eram feitos cortes histológicos com a coloração de hematoxilina e eosina (HE) e pelo método de Weigert - Van Gieson. RESULTADOS: Após duas semanas identificou-se um leve desarranjo do terço externo da túnica média. Nos animais sacrificados após quatro semanas observou-se um desarranjo estrutural dos terços externos da túnica média. Após seis semanas observou-se necrose da parede aórtica. Finalmente, após oito semanas além da fibrose da parede aórtica identificou-se a destruição da lâmina elástica interna. CONCLUSÃO: A remoção da adventícia da aorta em suínos levou à alterações degenerativas da média, determinando perda da estrutura da parede aórtica que é variável em sua localização, intensidade e forma, dependendo do tempo a partir do qual se estabeleceu a lesão isquêmica.
Avaliação do número de células caliciformes nas criptas da mucosa colônica com e sem trânsito intestinal
Authors: Mello Rodrigo de Oliveira , Silva Camila Morais Gonçalves da , Fonte Fábio Piovezan , Silva Daniele Luchinitz Ferraz , Pereira José Aires , Margarido Nelson Fontana , Martinez Carlos Augusto Real
Published: August 2012

OBJETIVO: Medir a espessura das criptas e quantificar o número de células caliciformes comparando a mucosa cólica com e sem trânsito intestinal, relacionando-as ao tempo de exclusão. MÉTODOS: Sessenta ratos Wistar, foram distribuídos em três grupos com 20 animais segundo a operação final para a retirada dos cólons, realizadas em seis, 12 ou 18 semanas. Em cada grupo, 15 animais foram submetidos à derivação do trânsito por colostomia proximal no cólon esquerdo e fístula mucosa distal e cinco apenas à laparotomia (controle). Os cólons com e sem trânsito fecal foram removidos, processados, submetidos a cortes histológicos corados pela hematoxilina-eosina. A altura das criptas colônicas e o número de células caliciformes foram mensurados por morfometria computadorizada. Foram utilizados os testes t de Student e Kruskal-Wallis para comparação e análise de variância, estabelecendo-se nível de significância de 5% (p<0,05). RESULTADOS: A altura das criptas diminui nos segmentos sem trânsito fecal (p=0,0001), reduzindo entre seis e 12 semanas de exclusão (p=0,0003), estabilizando-se após este período. O número de células caliciformes nas criptas é menor nos segmentos sem trânsito após 12 e 18 semanas (p=0,0001), porém aumenta com o decorrer do tempo de exclusão (p=0,04) CONCLUSÃO: A exclusão do trânsito intestinal diminui a espessura das criptas colônicas e o número de células caliciformes nos segmentos sem trânsito. Existe aumento do número de células caliciformes com o decorrer do tempo de exclusão.
Formas digestivas da doença de Chagas e carcinogênese: um estudo de associação
Authors: Gullo Caio Eduardo , Estofolete Cássia Fernanda , Gil Cristiane Damas , Christiano Adriana Borgonovi , Netinho João Gomes
Published: August 2012

Os autores analisam a relação entre carcinogênese gastrintestinal e doença de Chagas, com base em revisão pormenorizada da literatura. Para tal, foram selecionados estudos epidemiológicos, experimentais e de descrição anatomopatológica com material humano. O artigo discute a possibilidade de a proteção ser conferida por fatores celulares morfocinéticos, imunológicos e neuroendócrinos não totalmente conhecidos e que seriam secundários à degeneração plexular. Também são apresentados aspectos relacionados à interação parasito-hospedeiro, sob o ponto de vista da modulação epitelial da mucosa colônica, e suas implicações antitumorais. Por fim, expõe-se o mecanismo fisiopatológico de desenvolvimento da neoplasia de esôfago em pacientes com megaesôfago. Conclui-se que a colopatia chagásica, especialmente o dano neuronal intrínseco, constitui modelo de estudo que pode contribuir no entendimento da carcinogênese colorretal.
Alterações dos parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais em pacientes obesos com diabetes melito tipo 2 submetidos à derivação gastrojejunal em y de Roux sem anel
Authors: Varaschim Michelle , Nassif Paulo Afonso Nunes , Moreira Luciana Bugmann , Nascimento Marcelo Mazza do , Vieira Grasiela Manfredi Nunes , Garcia Rodrigo Ferreira , Sue Karen Megumi , Cruz Manuela Aguiar
Published: August 2012

OBJETIVOS: Verificar as alterações do peso e índice de massa corporal em pacientes obesos grau II e III com diabete melito tipo 2 nos períodos pré e pós-operatório e as alterações dos parâmetros laboratoriais de glicemia de jejum, glicemia pós-prandial, hemoglobina glicada, insulina nos períodos pré e pós-operatório. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se estudo prospectivo selecionando 40 pacientes com obesidade grau II e III, submetidos à derivação gastrojejunal em Y-de-Roux sem anel. Analisou-se no pré e pós-operatório de 60 dias o peso, índice de massa corporal, glicemia de jejum, glicemia pós-prandial, hemoglobina glicada e insulina. RESULTADOS: O peso médio pré-operatório foi de 107,3Kg diminuindo para 89,5Kg no pós-operatório. O índice de massa corporal médio inicial foi de 39,5Kg/m2 e 32,9Kg/m2 com 60 dias de pós-operatório. A glicemia de jejum no pré-operatório foi de 132 mg/dl e no pós-operatório diminuiu 40,4 mg/dl em média. A glicemia pós-prandial foi de 172 mg/dl no pré-operatório e 111,6 mg/dl no controle pós-operatório. A hemoglobina glicada inicial foi de 7% declinando para 5,7% no pós-operatório. A insulina pré-operatória foi 29,6 uIU/ml e a pós-operatória 13,9 uIU/ml. Todas as variáveis apresentaram significância estatística com p<0,001. CONCLUSÃO: Houve significante diminuição de peso e no índice de massa corporal entre os períodos pré e pós-operatórios e diminuição também significante dos parâmetros laboratoriais de glicemia de jejum, glicemia pós-prandial, hemoglobina glicada, insulina entre os mesmos períodos.
Ressecções gástricas menores com linfadenectomia modificada em câncer gástrico precoce com linfonodo sentinela negativo
Authors: Bravo Neto Guilherme Pinto , Santos Elizabeth Gomes dos , Loja Carlos André dos Santos , Victer Felipe Carvalho , Neves Marcelo Soares , Pinto Márcia Ferreira , Carvalho Carlos Eduardo de Souza
Published: August 2012

OBJETIVO: Estudar a pesquisa de linfonodo sentinela em câncer gástrico precoce como método diagnóstico de metástase ganglionar insuspeita, e que permita a realização, naqueles com gânglios negativos, de ressecções gástricas menores, com linfadenectomia limitada. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados sete pacientes portadores de câncer gástrico precoce, tratados no Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, no período de setembro de 2008 a maio de 2011, e submetidos à pesquisa de linfonodo sentinela, realizada através da injeção endoscópica, peritumoral, transoperatória, do corante azul patente. RESULTADOS: Foram encontrados, em média, três linfonodos sentinelas por paciente. A biópsia por congelação destes linfonodos foi negativa para metástases, o que permitiu a realização de ressecção gástrica atípica em três casos e antrectomia com reconstrução a BI em quatro. A linfadenectomia realizada foi a D1 modificada. Não houve mortalidade operatória. O tempo de acompanhamento pós-operatório variou de cinco a 37 meses, sem evidências de recidivas. Uma paciente apresentou um segundo tumor precoce 13 meses depois da primeira cirurgia e foi submetida à gastrectomia total. CONCLUSÃO: A pesquisa de linfonodo sentinela em câncer gástrico precoce, nos sete pacientes estudados, mostrou-se um método eficaz para a avaliação de metástases ganglionares e permitiu a realização de ressecções gástricas menores e linfadenectomias limitadas. Estes procedimentos de menor porte diminuem o risco de complicações pós-operatórias, mantendo, por outro lado, a radicalidade oncológica que se exige no tratamento do câncer gástrico.
Estudo comparativo de aderências intraperitoneais associadas ao uso das telas de polipropileno e de malha leve de polipropileno revestida com ácido graxo ômega-3
Authors: Kist Caroline , Manna Bibiana Borges , Montes Juliano Hermes Maeso , Bigolin André Vicente , Grossi João Vicente Machado , Cavazzola Leandro Totti
Published: August 2012

OBJETIVO: Comparar as aderências entre dois grupos de ratas Wistar submetidas à colocação intraperitoneal da tela de polipropileno e malha leve de polipropileno revestida com ácido graxo ômega-3. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizadas 27 ratas Wistar randomizadas em três grupos. No grupo 0 não houve colocação de prótese, no grupo 1 houve implantação da prótese de polipropileno e no grupo 2, implantação de prótese de polipropileno revestida com ácido graxo ômega-3. Foi avaliadas a presença de aderências, grau, força de ruptura, percentual de área recoberta e retração das telas aferidas. RESULTADOS: O grupo 0 não apresentou aderência. Os grupos 1 e 2 apresentaram aderência na superfície da prótese, omento, fígado e alça intestinal. Foram encontradas aderências grau 1 e 2 em 100% do grupo polipropileno revestida com ácido graxo ômega-3 e em 60% do grupo polipropileno. As demais eram aderências grau 3, e diferiram significativamente entre os grupos (p< 0,001). A força de ruptura da aderência na tela polipropileno revestida com ácido graxo ômega-3 foi significativamente maior do que na tela de polipropileno (p= 0,016). Não houve diferença na retração das telas ou superfície acometida pelas telas. A análise da tela revestida com ácido graxo ômega-3 demonstrou distribuição preferencialmente nas bordas em relação ao polipropileno, com predomínio no centro. CONCLUSÃO: O tipo de aderência, percentual de superfície acometida e retração não foram significativamente diferentes entre as telas. A tela de baixo peso apresentou menor grau de aderências, e, estas, necessitaram força maior para ruptura, possivelmente pelo predomínio de sua ocorrência nas bordas da tela.
Primeiro transplante duplo de fígado esquerdo intervivos adultos do Brasil
Authors: Nicoluzzi João Eduardo Leal , Silveira Fábio , Silveira Fábio Porto , Macri Matheus Martin , Monteiro Mauro , Woitovicz Vinícius , Stalchimidt Fábio
Published: August 2012

O transplante hepático inter vivos adulto expandiu as possibilidades terapêuticas para pacientes com insuficiência hepática terminal. A necessidade de um volume hepático adequado que será retirado do doador e necessário ao receptor limita sua utilização em alguns casos. Apresentamos um caso em que se utilizou dois lobos esquerdos de dois doadores vivos no intuito de prover parênquima hepático suficiente ao receptor.
Thermo-mechanic and sensory properties of wheat and rye breads produced with varying concentration of the additive
Authors: Demin Mirjana , Popov-Raljic Jovanka , Lalicic-Petronijevic Jovanka , Rabrenovic Biljana , Filipcev Bojana , Simurina Olivera
Published: August 2012

The effects of different concentrations of the complex additive containing
emulsifiers, oxido-reductive substances and enzymes, on the rheological
conditions of dough, and on the sensory properties of three groups of bread
were investigated. The best initial quality and the lowest degree of protein
network weakening had the dough obtained from mixed wheat and rye flours. The
best expected baking properties were shown by the white wheat flour due to
the least damage of its starch. The use of the additive has an effect on the
absorption of water and on the majority of C-values of all sorts of flour.
The amount of additive had a significant effect on the sensory properties of
wheat bread crumb texture. Also, storage duration significantly affected (p
<0.01) the sensory properties of integral wheat bread aroma-taste and the
weighted mean score. The interaction of these two factors had no significant
effect on any of sensory properties of the investigated groups of bread.
Development and validation of SPE-HPLC method for the determination of carbamazepine and its metabolites carbamazepine epoxide and carbamazepine trans-diol in plasma
Authors: Dzodic Predrag , Zivanovic Ljiljana , Protic Ana , Ivanovic Ivana , Velickovic-Radovanovic Radmila , Spasic Mirjana , Lukic Stevo , Zivanovic Slavoljub
Published: August 2012

SPE-HPLC method has been developed and validated for rapid analysis of
carbamazepine and its two metabolites carbamazepine epoxide and carbamazepine
trans-diol in human plasma. The analysis was performed using C18
Bakerbond-BDC analytical column (250 mm x 4.6 mm i.d., particle size 5 ?m).
The optimal conditions for the separation were established with the mobile
phase acetonitrile - 10 mM phosphate buffer, pH 7.0 (30:70, v/v) at the flow
rate of 1.5 mL min-1, temperature 35?C, and UV detection at 210 nm. Total run
time was about 8 minutes. SPE procedure for extraction of the analytes from
plasma sample was developed using Oasis HLB cartridges and subsequently
eluate was injected into the HPLC system for analysis. Afterwards, SPE-HPLC
method was subjected to validation. Linearity was obtained over the
concentration range of 0.2-25 ?g/mL for carbamazepine, carbamazepine epoxide
and carbamazepine trans-diol with correlation coefficients higher than 0.995.
The method showed good intra-day and inter-day precision with relative
standard deviation below 7.96%, while accuracy ranged from 92.09% to 108.5%
for all analytes. Finally, the method was successfully applied to analysis of
plasma samples of epileptic patients in monotherapy and polytherapy.
[Acknowledgments. Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. OI
172033].
Geolocators reveal three consecutive wintering areas in the thrush nightingale
Authors: Stach Robert , Jakobsson Sven , Kullberg Cecilia , Fransson Thord
Published: August 2012

The winter distribution of many migratory birds wintering in tropical Africa is poorly known. After the crossing of the Sahara Desert, some long-distance migrants typically stay in the Sahel zone for an extended period before continuing migration to their main wintering areas south of the equator. Here we show how two thrush nightingales (
Luscinia luscinia
) fitted with light-level geolocators, after a six to seven week long stay in the Sahel zone of Sudan, moved to an intermediate area in northern Kenya for a month-long stay before continuing to their final wintering areas in southern Africa. These data indicate that thrush nightingales may use three consecutive wintering sites during their stay in Africa. The migratory movements in Africa between wintering sites are well-coordinated with high precipitation in these areas, suggesting that thrush nightingales track peaks of insect abundance occurring after rains. This three-stage wintering strategy has, to our knowledge, previously not been described, and shows that long-distance migrants can have complex wintering behaviour.
Determination of dipping contacts using electrical resistivity tomography
Authors: Putiška René , Dostál Ivan , Kušnirák David
Published: August 2012

Determination of dipping contacts using electrical resistivity tomography

Generally, all electrode arrays are able to delineate the contact of two lithostratigraphic units especially with very high resistivity contrast. However, the image resolution for the location of vertical and dipping structures is different. The responses of dipole-dipole (DD), Wenner alpha (WA), Schlumberger (SCH) and combined pole-dipole (PD) arrays have been computed using the finite difference method. Comparison of the responses indicates that: (1) The dipole-dipole array usually gives the best resolution and is the most detailed method especially for the detection of vertical structures. This array has shown the best resolution to recognize the geometrical characterisation of the fault. (2) The pole-dipole has shown the second best result in our test. The PD is an effective method for detection of vertical structures with a high depth range, but the deepest parts are deformed. (3) Wenner alpha shows a low resolution, inconvenient for detailed investigation of dip structures. (4) The Schlumberger array gives a good and sharp resolution to assess the contact between two lithological units but gives poor result for imaging geometry of dipping contact.
Polish Migrating - from Globetrotting to See-sawing
Authors: Bukraba-Rylska Izabella
Published: August 2012

Polish Migrating - from Globetrotting to See-sawing

Polish rural migrations are a permanent phenomenon with specific features. They are a temporary yet indefinite type of departure from the social and topographic ‘peripheries’ to similar ‘peripheries’ of the receiving country, a group rather than an individual process of nominating migrants, their mutual movement to a chosen country and staying in ethnic cliques ("ghettoes"), finally the lack of a clear innovative effect and even the stagnation and retraditionalism of the environment they return to. These phenomena were described in detail by Polish rural sociologists during the inter-war years and current research confirms the constancy of the pattern established at that time. The similar behaviour of migrants and social consequences of toing and froing to earn money suggest the constancy of their conditions (particularly the peripheral situation of Poland in Europe and the dual development of Polish society and economy).
Failure as a Precondition for Success - the Transformation of East German Agriculture Revisited
Authors: Barlösius Eva , Neu Claudia
Published: August 2012

Failure as a Precondition for Success - the Transformation of East German Agriculture Revisited

This paper asks why the transformation of the East German agricultural sector did not occur as politically intended: decollectivisation and a change to small family farms did not take place. In order to answer this question the two dominant sociological concepts of transformation, transfer of institutions and delayed modernisation, are first considered. Afterwards the theoretical and methodological approaches and results of socio-agricultural studies are presented. Based on the interpretation of the findings of these studies the main characteristics of the agricultural transformation are identified. The paper ends with the thesis that, as was typical for the German reading of the transformation process was its interpretation within the "order of time". This implied a devaluation and ignorance of whatever was not in line with the concept of modernisation.
The Formation and Destruction of Social Capital - Lessons from East German Rural Restructuring
Authors: Laschewski Lutz
Published: August 2012

The Formation and Destruction of Social Capital - Lessons from East German Rural Restructuring

Twenty years after German unification, rural East Germany still remains in deep economic crisis. The fact that the physical, social and private infrastructure have improved significantly, but with seemingly little effect on the economic performance and negative demographic trends, raises the question of alternative, institutional and social explanations for the current crisis. In this context this paper explores the concept of social capital and its relation to rural development in order to understand the current rural crisis in East Germany. It describes the process of agricultural restructuring after unification and analyses the processes of formation and destruction of different forms of social capital in this process.

It is argued that social capital is connected with particular institutions and activities. In the case of Rural East Germany it was difficult for many actors to draw on network relations, simply because those networks vanished after having lost their meaning, institutional and physical basis. However, the new institutional framework, which has been transferred from the West, does not offer suitable incentives for the formation of other, new forms of social capital that are necessary to overcome the rural crisis.

A generalization from the East German experience is that it is important to identify the base of social capital and thereby its likely durability in times of change. If an economic, social or cultural function is lost, it is likely that social capital related to this function will also be destroyed. However, this also gives room for careful optimism, due to the fact that new economic, social or cultural activities may serve as a basis for new social capital.
Rural Social Capital versus European and Global Challenges (About "good" and "bad" Social Capital)
Authors: Mikiewicz Piotr , Szafraniec Krystyna
Published: August 2012

Rural Social Capital versus European and Global Challenges (About "good" and "bad" Social Capital)

This text has two aims - to relate the results of research carried out in IRWiR PAN (Institute for Rural and Agricultural Development Polish Academy of Sciences) on rural social capital and achieve a useful social interpretation of those results referring to the theory of social capital. Social capital is nowadays becoming a very important element in academic and political discourse. It is seen as having the potential for greater efficiency in levelling social differences, improving the opportunities of rural inhabitants. No matter how popular and positive, social capital can be understood in various ways due to its various theoretical sources, it is also possible to point out its negative aspects. This text is an attempt at showing the nuances of how social capital works. The first part presents the basic understanding of the category discussed here. The second part is a presentation of the results of empirical research where interpretation was carried out in the light of earlier outlined concepts.
Local Initiatives Functioning as a Condition of Rural Development of the Czech Countryside
Authors: Majerová Věra
Published: August 2012

Local Initiatives Functioning as a Condition of Rural Development of the Czech Countryside

Rural development is closely connected with the development possibilities of residential locations. Broken social ties are projected into its earlier development. The socialist way of life (from the end of the WW II until the end of the eighties) was ideologically formed by collectivist models. Social organisations were highly formalised and controlled from above. Thousands of new social organisations have emerged in the villages and in towns since 1989, mostly involving cultural, sports and social activities. Civil initiatives were slow in winning recognition in rural areas and some types of initiatives are still missing. A new impulse for their progress was the accession of the Czech Republic into the EU in 2004. Information is drawn from the sociological research projects of the Sociological Laboratory, Czech University of Life Sciences.
Changes of photosynthesis and carbon metabolism in Typha angustifolia L grown in conditions of nitrate nitrogen overload
Authors: Chikov Vladimir I. , Isaeva Elvira V. , Ratushnyak Anna A. , Tarasov Oleg Yu , Abramova Kseniya I. , Trushin Maxim V.
Published: August 2012

Abstract -

Nitrates may induce alterations in NO-signaling system and change photosynthesis in plants. Significant reduction of 14CO2 fixation was noted at concentration of 3.96 mM NaNO3 in an aquatic macrophyte (Typha angustifoliaL.). Assimilation of 14CO2 seven days after the introduction of nitrates did not differ between control and experimental samples. There were changes in distribution of 14C among products of 4CO2 fixation 4 h after NaNO3 addition, resulting in increased sugar radioactivity in experimental plants. It was suggested that the observed changes may have regulatory importance.