bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality and quantity of data recovered from massively parallel sequencing: Examples in Asparagales and Poaceae
Authors: Steele P. Roxanne , Hertweck Kate L. , Mayfield Dustin , McKain Michael R. , Leebens‐Mack James , Pires J. Chris
Published: January 2012

• Premise of the study: Genome survey sequences (GSS) from massively parallel sequencing have potential to provide large, cost‐effective data sets for phylogenetic inference, replace single gene or spacer regions as DNA barcodes, and provide a plethora of data for other comparative molecular evolution studies. Here we report on the application of this method to estimating the molecular phylogeny of core Asparagales, investigating plastid gene losses, assembling complete plastid genomes, and determining the type and quality of assembled genomic data attainable from Illumina 80–120‐bp reads.

• Methods: We sequenced total genomic DNA from samples in two lineages of monocotyledonous plants, Poaceae and Asparagales, on the Illumina platform in a multiplex arrangement. We compared reference‐based assemblies to de novo contigs, evaluated consistency of assemblies resulting from use of various references sequences, and assessed our methods to obtain sequence assemblies in nonmodel taxa.

• Key results: Our method returned reliable, robust organellar and nrDNA sequences in a variety of plant lineages. High quality assemblies are not dependent on genome size, amount of plastid present in the total genomic DNA template, or relatedness of available reference sequences for assembly. Phylogenetic results revealed familial and subfamilial relationships within Asparagales with high bootstrap support, although placement of the monotypic genus Aphyllanthes was placed with moderate confidence.

• Conclusions: The well‐supported molecular phylogeny provides evidence for delineation of subfamilies within core Asparagales. With advances in technology and bioinformatics tools, the use of massively parallel sequencing will continue to become easier and more affordable for phylogenomic and molecular evolutionary biology investigations.
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss and Delayed Complete Sudden Spontaneous Recovery
Authors: Ortmann Amanda J. , Neely J. Gail
Published: January 2012

This is a case report of a 53-yr-old female who experienced sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) accompanied by roaring tinnitus in her right ear. The patient’s hearing partially improved in the low frequencies in response to intratympanic injections. Given that her hearing
loss did not improve further, the patient was fitted with a hearing aid to mask the tinnitus and restore a sense of balance between the two ears. Approximately 9 mo postonset of the SSNHL, a complete spontaneous recovery of hearing occurred. Such a delayed and complete recovery is highly unusual.This
case highlights that the spontaneous recovery in hearing indicates that the pathological cause for the SSNHL involved a process that was capable of repair or regeneration, thus ruling out pathologies related to cochlear hair cell destruction or nerve fiber loss. This leaves a possibility that
the event causing the onset of the SSNHL resulted in a disruption of the ion homeostatic properties of the cochlea via the production of the endocochlear potential.
« Le vrai sanaani ». Note sur la perception des changements linguistiques à Sanaa, Yémen
Authors: Dufour Julien , Maloom Hanan
Published: January 2012

Alors que le dialecte traditionnel de l’ancien Sanaa (Yémen) a désormais été bien décrit, on est beaucoup moins bien renseigné sur les dynamiques linguistiques à l’œuvre dans le grand Sanaa, dont la population est très majoritairement d’origine migrante. Le vieux sanaani reste en tout cas une référence symbolique pour la plupart des habitants de la ville. Qu’entendent-ils par là et quelles attitudes adoptent-ils à l’égard du vieux parler citadin ? C’est ce que la présente contribution cherche à comprendre. Les réponses sont variées, mais une constante semble se dégager : l’opposition entre une identité citadine raffinée liée à la Vieille Ville comme lieu chargé d’histoire, et une identité d’homme de tribu (gabîlî) fondée symboliquement sur une certaine rudesse associée au courage physique. Cette opposition se retrouve dans les comportements linguistiques, ou du moins dans les discours que les Sanaanis tiennent à ce sujet. Elle est un facteur de différentiation des attitudes en fonction du sexe des locuteurs. Il semble, enfin, qu’elle conduise à l’apparition d’un parler moderne à la fois urbain et connoté comme gabîlî.
Retroperitoneal fibrosis – an unsolved mystery
Authors: Premachandra ND , Perera ND
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/slju.v11i1.4053SLJU 2010; 11(1): 7-13
Urologist operated ultrasound scanning of the urinary system: findings and impact on day to day management
Authors: Premachandra ND , Wickramarachchi RE , Perera ND
Published: January 2012

Introduction Urologist held ultrasonography has become a standard practice in the developed world. The aim of the present study was to describe the practicality and the outcome of urologist held ultrasound scan of kidneyureter- bladder (USS-KUB), and the effect on the management. Methods and material A prospective, descriptive study was designed to analyze the first 100 in-ward USS-KUB performed by urologist. Findings were compared and confirmed by radiologists’ findings. Results The mean length of the kidneys (right – 9.8 cm; range: 5.7-16 cm, left – 9.6 cm; range: 5.2-16 cm), average width (right – 5.2 cm; range: 3.4-10 cm, left – 5.1 cm; range: 3.4-8.8 cm), mean cortical thickness (right – 1.14 cm; range: 0.3-1.9 cm, left – 1.12 cm; range: 0.2-2.5 cm) and clear cortico-medullary demarcation (right – 83%, left – 86%) were comparable with radiologists’ findings. Gross, moderate, and mild hydronephrosis were seen in 29%, 17% and 20% patients, respectively. Renal calculi were observed in 10%, cortical cysts in 3 and renal mass in 2 patients. Five percent of the patients had perinephric collections. Right ureter was dilated in 22% and left ureters in 21%. Ureteric calculi were visualized in 7%. Twelve percent of the bladders showed a wall thickness over 4 mm and 10 patients had a significant post-voidal residual volume. Out of the males 26% had a prostatomegaly over 30 ml and intravesical prostatic protrusion was grade 2 or 3 in 52% of them. All the scans eliminated radiological waiting time and helped in rapid decision making and urgent intervention in 35% of them. Conclusions The urologist held USS-KUB was a very helpful tool in rapid deciding of the management, to fast track intervention and for follow up of the patients in a urology department. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/slju.v11i1.4054 SLJU 2010; 11(1): 14-16
Mucinous tubular and spindle cell carcinoma of the kidney
Authors: Prabath API , Sathesan B , Goonewardena SAS , Fernand Charisma S
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/slju.v11i1.4055 SLJU 2010; 11(1): 17-18
Laparoscopic excision of a giant renal cortical cyst – size does not matter!
Authors: Premachandra ND , Wickramarachchi RE , Perera ND
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/slju.v11i1.4059SLJU 2010; 11(1): 26-29
Pattern of urological malignancies in 2010 – an audit from a tertiary referral centre
Authors: Prabath API , Goonewardena SAS
Published: January 2012

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/slju.v11i1.4060 SLJU 2010; 11(1): 30-35
Antipsychotic polypharmacy in clozapine resistant schizophrenia: a randomized controlled trial of tapering antipsychotic co-treatment
Authors: Repo-Tiihonen Eila , Hallikainen Tero , Kivistö Päivi , Tiihonen Jari
Published: January 2012

There is a considerable disparity between clinical practice and recommendations based on meta-analyses of antipsychotic polypharmacy in clozapine resistant schizophrenia. For this reason, we investigated the clinical response to reducing the use olanzapine that had been previously added on clozapine treatment among seriously ill hospitalized patients. In a randomized controlled trial with crossover design, we studied volunteer patients (N=15) who had olanzapine added on to clozapine in a state mental hospital. Clozapine monotherapy was just as effective as clozapine-olanzapine therapy, according to results from Clinical Global Impression Scale and Global Assessment of Functioning as primary outcome measures. Polypharmacy is widely used in treating schizophrenia, and usually, add-on medications are started because of worsening of the clinical state. A major confounding feature of these add-ons is whether observed improvements are caused by the medication or explained by the natural fluctuating course of the disorder. The present study, in spite of its small size, indicates the necessity of reconsidering the value of polypharmacy in treating schizophrenia.
Rare Non-Wilms’ Tumors in Children
Authors: Kourti Maria , Hatzipantelis Emmanouel , Zaramboukas Thomas , Tragiannidis Athanassios , Petrakis Georgios , Athanassiadou-Piperopoulou Fani
Published: January 2012

We report our institutional experience of the management of 2 cases of rare non-Wilms’ tumors; a rhabdoid tumor in a 17-month old boy and a clear cell sarcoma in a 5-year old girl. The two patients were treated with ifosfamide/carboplatin/etoposide (ICE) alternating with vincristine/doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide (VDC) and cyclophosphamide/etoposide (CE) alternating with vincristine/doxorubicin/cyclophosphamide (VDC) and radiotherapy, respectively. Both patients showed full response with no significant adverse events. At 2-year follow up, they are disease and relapse free. Although contemporary treatment regimens are very promising, multicenter collaborative studies are needed in order to define a standard treatment for non-Wilms’ tumors.
Malignant Melanoma of the Conjunctiva: A case Report with Examination of KIT and PDGFRA
Authors: Terada Tadashi
Published: January 2012

Although many clinicopathological studies of malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva have been reported, there have been no studies of the expression and gene mutations of KIT and PDGFRA in melanoma of the conjunctiva. A 69-year-old Japanese woman consulted our hospital because of black mass (0.7 × 0.7 × 0.6 cm) in the conjunctiva. A biopsy was taken. The biopsy showed malignant epithelioid cells with melanin deposition. Immunohistochemically, the tumor was positive for S100 protein, HMB45, p53, Ki-67 (labeling=30%), KIT and PDGFRA. The tumor was negative for pancytokeratins (AE1/3 and CAM5.2). A genetic analysis using PCR-direct sequencing revealed no mutations of KIT gene (exons 9, 11, 13, and 17) and PDGFRA gene (exons 12 and 18). The pathological diagnosis was conjunctival melanoma. Despite chemotherapy, the patient developed multiple metastases of melanoma, and died of melanoma 7 years after the biopsy. In conclusion, the author reported a case of melanoma of conjunctive expressing KIT and PDGFRA proteins without gene mutations of KIT and PDGFRA.
Binary Classifiers and Latent Sequence Models for Emotion Detection in Suicide Notes
Authors: Cherry Colin , Mohammad Saif M. , De Bruijn Berry
Published: January 2012

This paper describes the National Research Council of Canada's submission to the 2011 i2b2 NLP challenge on the detection of emotions in suicide notes. In this task, each sentence of a suicide note is annotated with zero or more emotions, making it a multi-label sentence classification task. We employ two distinct large-margin models capable of handling multiple labels. The first uses one classifier per emotion, and is built to simplify label balance issues and to allow extremely fast development. This approach is very effective, scoring an F-measure of 55.22 and placing fourth in the competition, making it the best system that does not use web-derived statistics or re-annotated training data. Second, we present a latent sequence model, which learns to segment the sentence into a number of emotion regions. This model is intended to gracefully handle sentences that convey multiple thoughts and emotions. Preliminary work with the latent sequence model shows promise, resulting in comparable performance using fewer features.
A Naïve Bayes Approach to Classifying Topics in Suicide Notes
Authors: Spasić Irena , Burnap Pete , Greenwood Mark , Arribas-Ayllon Michael
Published: January 2012

The authors present a system developed for the 2011 i2b2 Challenge on Sentiment Classification, whose aim was to automatically classify sentences in suicide notes using a scheme of 15 topics, mostly emotions. The system combines machine learning with a rule-based methodology. The features used to represent a problem were based on lexico–semantic properties of individual words in addition to regular expressions used to represent patterns of word usage across different topics. A naïve Bayes classifier was trained using the features extracted from the training data consisting of 600 manually annotated suicide notes. Classification was then performed using the naïve Bayes classifier as well as a set of pattern–matching rules. The classification performance was evaluated against a manually prepared gold standard consisting of 300 suicide notes, in which 1,091 out of a total of 2,037 sentences were associated with a total of 1,272 annotations. The competing systems were ranked using the micro-averaged F-measure as the primary evaluation metric. Our system achieved the F-measure of 53% (with 55% precision and 52% recall), which was significantly better than the average performance of 48.75% achieved by the 26 participating teams.
Single Layer Centrifugation Can Be Scaled-Up Further to Process up to 150 mL Semen
Authors: Morrell J. M. , van Wienen M. , Wallgren M.
Published: January 2012

Single-Layer centrifugation has been used to improve the quality of sperm samples in several species. However, where stallion or boar semen is to be used for AI, larger volumes of semen have to be processed than for other species, thus limiting the effectiveness of the original technique. The objective of the present study was to scale up the SLC method for both stallion and boar semen. Stallion semen could be processed in 100 mL glass tubes without a loss of sperm quality, and similarly, boar semen could be processed in 200 mL and 500 mL tubes without losing sperm quality. The results of these preliminary studies are encouraging, and larger trials are underway to evaluate using these methods in the field.
Ataxia espinocerebelar (doença de Machado-Joseph): três relatos de caso
Authors: Cyrne Dayane Alves Brandão , Malagutti William , Barnabé Anderson Sena , Fornari João Victor , Rodrigues Francisco Sandro Menezes , Ferraz Renato Ribeiro Nogueira
Published: January 2012

Introdução: As Ataxias espinocereberales (SCA) são doenças genéticas neuro-degenerativas que se caracterizam por uma perda progressiva dos neurônios cerebelares. No Brasil, a forma mais comum da SCA é a SCA3, também conhecida como Doença de Machado-Joseph (MJD). Objetivo: Relatar os sentimentos e expectativas dos portadores da MJD sobre a sua própria doença. Método: Realizou-se entrevista direcionada com três parentes portadores de MJD. Resultados e conclusão: Os entrevistados sabem que a doença é hereditária, apresentam ataxia, dismetria e dificuldade em coordenação motora, além da depressão. A gravidade da patologia é percebida por meio dos óbitos vivenciados entre familiares. A MJD traz alterações importantes nas atividades da vida diária, levando a necessidade de ajuda de terceiros. Os sentimentos dos participantes em relação à doença se expressam de forma ambígua, parecendo ora revolta ora conformismo.
Prática mental na reabilitação de membro superior após acidente vascular encefálico – Casos clínicos
Authors: Gaspar Bruna Esequiel , Hotta Tássia Tamy Hirono , Souza Luciane Aparecida Pascucci Sande de
Published: January 2012

Introdução: O acidente vascular encefálico (AVE) apresenta altos índices de mortalidade e sua evolução, geralmente, implica em algum grau de dependência. A prática mental baseia-se na simulação mental de movimentos para promover aprendizagem de uma habilidade motora. Objetivos: Produzir um protocolo de prática mental utilizando o espelho combinado com cinesioterapia e investigar seus efeitos na recuperação funcional comparando-os com a aplicação isolada da cinesioterapia. Métodos: Participaram do estudo quatro pacientes vítimas de AVE na fase aguda, com sequelas motoras de hemiplegia ou hemiparesia. Dois realizaram terapia do espelho associada a cinesioterapia e os outros dois realizaram apenas a cinesioterapia. Resultados: Foi possível observar o desenvolvimento de bilateralidade nos pacientes, sugerindo que a associação entre imagem e prática mental possa representar uma estratégia interessante na aquisição de habilidades motoras. Conclusão: A resposta de melhora motora associada ao espelho foi observada somente nos pacientes paréticos, sugerindo a necessidade de novos estudos em pacientes plégicos.
Relação entre medidas antropométricas de estudantes e dimensões do mobiliário no ensino fundamental
Authors: Almeida Ana Cristina de , Carrascosa Andréa Corrêa , Batista Lucia Helena
Published: January 2012

Objetivo: Avaliar as dimensões do mobiliário escolar utilizado por estudantes de 1º a 6º ano de uma escola estadual de ensino fundamental e compará-las às variáveis antropométricas desses usuários. Métodos: Participaram 196 estudantes, sendo 45,9% do gênero masculino. Foram mensurados peso corporal, estatura, largura do tórax e da pelve, altura poplítea e distância nádega-poplítea dos estudantes e comparados às respectivas dimensões do mobiliário (altura, largura e profundidade do assento, largura do encosto, inclinação encosto-assento e altura da mesa) e as especificadas na NBR 14006 da Associação Brasileira de Normas Técnicas. Resultados: Apenas as medidas da largura do assento e do encosto se encontraram adequadas às medidas dos estudantes. Conclusão: As dimensões do mobiliário avaliado, como altura e profundidade do assento, altura da mesa e inclinação do encosto-assento, são inadequadas às medidas antropométricas dos estudantes e o mobiliário avaliado não apresenta todas as dimensões recomendadas pela NBR 14006.
Efeitos de um programa de hidroginástica no equilíbrio de idosos
Authors: Streit Inês Amanda , Contreira Andressa Ribeiro , Corazza Sara Teresinha
Published: January 2012

Introdução: O processo de envelhecimento leva a um declínio da capacidade funcional, comprometendo a saúde da pessoa idosa. Exercícios físicos ajudam na conservação de um equilíbrio adequado, reduzindo a probabilidade de quedas. Objetivo: Verificar os efeitos de um programa de hidroginástica no equilíbrio de idosos. Métodos: Participaram do estudo oito idosos, com idades entre 60 e 74 anos, iniciantes no programa de hidroginástica. O equilíbrio foi avaliado por meio da Escala de Equilíbrio de Berg. Realizou-se uma análise descritiva dos dados e empregou-se o teste “t” de Student para amostras pareadas, adotando-se o nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Observou-se um aumento discreto nas médias do desempenho motor do equilíbrio dos idosos após o programa de hidroginástica; contudo, a diferença entre as médias de pré e pós-teste não foi estatisticamente significativa (p=0, 231). Conclusão: Pontua-se a necessidade de priorizar exercícios que potencializem o equilíbrio nos programas de hidroginástica.
Volume salivar em resposta ao exercício físico progressivo
Authors: Oliveira Leonardo Dos Santos , Lins e Silva Carlos Eduardo , Oliveira Saulo Fernandes de , Albuquerque Fabíola Lima de , Costa Manoel Da Cunha
Published: January 2012

Objetivo: Neste estudo, objetivou-se analisar o volume salivar em resposta ao exercício físico progressivo a partir do método de coleta com Salivette. Métodos: Cinco universitários (22±2 anos; 70,4±7,8 kg; 178,4±6,5 cm) foram submetidos a um exercício progressivo em cicloergômetro até a exaustão voluntária. Amostras de saliva foram coletadas com kits Salivette® após o aquecimento (basal), ao final dos estágios e no quinto e décimo minutos após o exercício. O volume de saliva foi determinado por uma pesagem dupla. Utilizou-se a ANOVA de Friedman para comparação do volume basal em relação aos estágios e a recuperação (p0,05). Conclusão: Supõe-se que alterações nas concentrações dos componentes salivares podem ser consideradas volume-independente. Esses achados acrescentam qualidade nas questões metodológicas para o uso da saliva como alternativa não invasiva em experimentos na área do exercício físico.
A efectividade da mobilização passiva no tratamento de patologias do ombro
Authors: Santos Ana , Cunha Luis , Silva Anabela G.
Published: January 2012

Introdução: A dor no ombro é muito comum e o tratamento preferencial é a fisioterapia. Objectivo: Avaliar a efectividade da mobilização passiva na dor, força, amplitude de movimento e/ou função no tratamento de indivíduos com tendinopatias da coifa ou síndrome de colisão do ombro por meio de revisão sistemática de literatura. Métodos: Os estudos foram pesquisados na PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scielo, PEDro e Web of Science. Dois investigadores analisaram os artigos para determinar os trabalhos a incluir. A qualidade metodológica desses foi avaliada por meio da escala de PEDro e feita a sua caracterização detalhada. Resultados: Os resultados sugerem que a mobilização passiva quando aplicada em conjunto com outros tratamentos leva a significativa diminuição da dor e a melhoria da força e função. Conclusão: A mobilização passiva aplicada em conjunto com outros tratamentos parece ser uma mais valia no tratamento de tendinopatias da bainha rotadora e síndrome de colisão do ombro. São necessários mais estudos que confirmem esses resultados.
Obesidade e transtornos alimentares: a coexistência de comportamentos alimentares extremos em adolescentes
Authors: Lofrano-Prado Mara Cristina , Prado Wagner Luiz , De Piano Aline , Dâmaso Ana Raimunda
Published: January 2012

Introdução: Adolescência é uma fase de mudanças biopsicossociais, na qual preocupações com o corpo podem levar a comportamentos alimentares inadequados. Objetivo: Descrever, por meio de uma revisão da literatura, as relações entre obesidade e transtornos alimentares em adolescentes. Métodos: Selecionaram-se estudos em língua portuguesa e inglesa, publicados de 1979 a 2009, nas bases de dados Medline e SciELO, usando-se os descritores anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, transtornos alimentares, imagem corporal, obesidade e adolescentes. Resultados: O medo de engordar e o desejo persistente de emagrecer são precursores de comportamentos alimentares inadequados. Em resposta a redução da massa corporal, adolescentes passam a se sentir mais confiantes, com melhor autoestima e autoconceito, gerando atitudes e comportamentos não saudáveis. Conclusão: É essencial que os diversos profissionais da área da saúde, envolvidos no tratamento da obesidade, fiquem atentos às interfaces entre transtornos alimentares e obesidade, diminuindo as diversas complicações observadas em programas de emagrecimento.
Terapias não farmacológicas para o tratamento de sintomas vasomotores em mulheres climatéricas: uma revisão sistemática da literatura
Authors: Basso Renata Pedrolongo , Regueiro Eloisa Maria Gatti , Marrara Kamilla Tays , Driusso Patricia
Published: January 2012

Objetivo: Verificar os efeitos das terapias não farmacológicas para o tratamento dos sintomas vasomotores em mulheres climatéricas. Métodos: Realizou-se um levantamento bibliográfico de estudos publicados em periódicos nacionais e internacionais, disponíveis nas bases de dados eletrônicas PubMed, Medline, Lilacs, Scielo, ISI web of knowledge, PEDro e Colaboração Cochrane; sendo selecionados ensaios clínicos controlados de janeiro de 1998 a dezembro de 2010, em língua inglesa, portuguesa ou espanhola, seguindo os critérios de inclusão deste estudo. Resultados: Foram incluídos oito estudos para apreciação crítica, desse total, dois abordaram os efeitos do exercício físico; um, da yoga; e cinco, da acupuntura. Os trabalhos apontaram melhora dos sintomas vasomotores das participantes das pesquisas ao realizar yoga, exercícios aeróbicos e acupuntura. Conclusão: Generalizações quanto aos benefícios das terapias alternativas e não farmacológicas no tratamento dos sintomas vasomotores nessa população, bem como sobre os verdadeiros mecanismos de ação dessas terapias sobre o alívio de tais sintomas, ainda são restritas.
Aptidão física de idosos institucionalizados: um estudo interinstitucional
Authors: Mazo Giovana Zarpellon , Silva Aline Huber da , Gonçalves Lucia Takase , Benedetti Tânia Bertoldo , Claudino Renato , Benetti Márcia Zanon
Published: January 2012

Objetivos: Analisar a aptidão física de residentes em instituições de longa permanência para idosos de baixa renda. Métodos: Realizou-se um estudo em seis instituições localizadas em três regiões do Brasil. A amostra foi composta de 78 idosos, com média de idade de 77,4 anos (DP=7,9). Aplicou-se o teste de aptidão funcional da AAHPERD adaptado para idosos institucionalizados. Resultados: Flexibilidade, coordenação, agilidade e resistência aeróbia foram consideradas, em média, como regulares; apenas a força, como boa. Já o índice de aptidão física geral, em média, foi regular. Quanto maior o grau de dependência dos idosos, menor é a força e o resultado do índice de aptidão física geral; e quanto melhor coordenação e agilidade, melhor o nível de independência. Conclusão: Deve-se incentivar a prática de exercícios físicos aos idosos institucionalizados, pois auxiliará a manter e/ou melhorar as aptidões físicas que contribuirão para a manutenção da capacidade funcional dessa população.
Prevalência de crianças fumantes passivas em idade escolar na cidade de Diamantina-MG
Authors: Filho Henrique De Gusmão , Alves Danielle Teixeira , Lima Vanessa Pereira de
Published: January 2012

Objetivos: Determinar a prevalência de crianças tabagistas passivas na faixa etária de 7 a 10 anos, sua relação com morbidades respiratórias, bem como os fatores de risco associados a tais morbidades. Método: Realizou-se um estudo transversal, utilizando-se questionários estruturados (nove perguntas fechadas sobre perfil tabágico, doenças respiratórias e escolaridade dos pais) entregues a todas as crianças de 11 escolas da cidade de Diamantina-MG. Resultados: Foram distribuídos 2.108 questionários, retornando 618. Desse total de participantes, 50,3% eram do sexo feminino; 37,6%, tabagistas passivas; 29,0% apresentaram problemas respiratórios, e quanto aos familiares, 48,3% tinham o pai fumante; 29,0%, a mãe, e 22,7%, outro integrante da família. Crianças com pais de menor nível de escolaridade apresentaram 4,5 vezes maior chance de fumo passivo. Conclusão: Verificou-se associação entre prevalência de crianças expostas ao tabagismo ambiental (36,6% de fumantes passivas) e morbidades respiratórias (30,0%), correlação entre baixa escolaridade dos pais e fumo passivo nas crianças.
Contribuição da massa muscular na força de preensão manual em diferentes estágios maturacionais
Authors: Santos Marcos Moura , Ferreira Alexandre Henrique Silva , Costa Manoel Cunha , Guimarães Fernando José Sá , Ritti-Dias Raphael Mendes
Published: January 2012

Objetivos: Neste estudo, analisou-se a relação entre a força de preensão manual e a massa muscular. Métodos: Foram avaliados 145 indivíduos (de 8 a 16 anos) divididos em três grupos: pré-púbere, púbere e pós-púbere. A área muscular de braço (AMBr) foi estimada por meio da antropometria e dobras cutâneas, e a força de preensão manual, pelo dinamômetro hidráulico. A comparação das variáveis nos diferentes estágios maturacionais foi realizada pelo teste de Kruskall-Wallis, seguido de U de Mann-Whitnney. A Correlação de Spearman foi adotada entre a força de preensão manual e a massa muscular (p0,05). Resultados: A força de preensão manual e a AMBr foram maiores no estágio pós-púbere, seguido do púbere e pré-púbere (p0,05). Houve correlação entre AMBr e a força de preensão palmar nos três estágios maturacionais (pré-púbere, rho=0,49; púbere, rho=0,74; pós-púbere, rho=0,70). Conclusão: Os resultados deste estudo indicaram que a força muscular está relacionada com a massa muscular; todavia, essa relação também ocorre nos estágios iniciais da maturação.
Penny Drop
Authors: Bair Sherry , Mooney Edward S.
Published: January 2012

An open-ended activity for students for which teachers can send in their most interesting student work for inclusion in Solve It! Student Thinking.
Silver and Gold
Authors: Lansdown Alan B. G.
Published: January 2012

Silver and gold are transitional metals and exhibit different chemical properties. They have distinctive uses in industry, commercial applications and in medical science. The World Health Organization and various national regulatory authorities recognize that occupational exposure to silver and many other metals in the workplace pose significant health risks. In the case of silver, argyria and argyrosis with profound discolorations of the skin and eyes present a major risk associated with chronic exposure to silver. Selected clinical cases are documented to illustrate complications that arise in the use of silver. Gold dust is expected as a contaminant in the atmosphere close to mining areas, but in view of their high density, particles, can be expected to settle rapidly and present minimal risk of inhalation by workers, but appreciably greater risks have been associated with silica, mercury and cyanide in gold workers. Neutron activation analysis has been described for determination of gold in blood following clinical or occupational exposure to the metal. The present chapter discusses properties, production, uses, exposure assessment, toxic effects, and several clinical cases of these transitional metals.
Redox Capacitor to Establish Bio‐Device Redox‐Connectivity
Authors: Kim Eunkyoung , Liu Yi , Bentley William E. , Payne Gregory F.
Published: January 2012

Electronic devices process information and transduce energy with electrons, while biology performs such operations with ions and chemicals. To establish bio‐device connectivity, we fabricate a redox‐capacitor film from a polysaccharide (i.e., chitosan) and a redox‐active catechol. We report that these films are rapidly and repeatedly charged and discharged electrochemically via a redox‐cycling mechanism in which mediators shuttle electrons between the electrode and film (capacitance ≈ 40 F/g or 2.9 mF/cm2). Further, charging and discharging can be executed under bio‐relevant conditions. Enzymatic‐charging is achieved by electron‐transfer from glucose to the film via an NADPH‐mediated redox‐cycling mechanism. Discharging occurs by electron‐donation to O2 to generate H2O2 that serves as substrate for peroxidase‐mediated biochemical reactions. Thus, these films offer the capability of inter‐converting electrochemical and biochemical inputs/outputs. Among potential applications, we anticipate that catechol–chitosan redox‐capacitor films could serve as circuit elements for molecular logic operations or for transducing bio‐based chemical energy into electricity.
Verstärkung der Bindung an das Proteinrückgrat – ein fruchtbares Konzept gegen die Arzneimittelresistenz von HIV
Authors: Ghosh Arun K. , Anderson David D. , Weber Irene T. , Mitsuya Hiroaki
Published: January 2012

Die Entstehung von Arzneimittelresistenzen ist eines der grundlegenden Probleme der Medizin. Dass sich bei HIV/AIDS so schnell resistente HIV‐1‐Varianten einstellen, ist ein großes Hindernis für die modernen Therapien. Wichtige Zielmoleküle der derzeitigen antiretroviralen Therapien sind Inhibitoren der HIV‐1‐Protease. Das Virus entwickelt Resistenzen, wenn Mutationen die Inhibitorbindung des Enzyms verändern und somit die Effizienz mindern. Um diese Resistenzbildung zu vermeiden, haben wir Inhibitoren erforscht, die am aktiven Zentrum der Protease Wasserstoffbrücken zum Proteinrückgrat bilden. Weil sich die Geometrie am katalytischen Zentrum ohne Funktionsverlust nicht ändern kann, schränken solche Wechselwirkungen die Möglichkeiten der Protease zur Resistenzbildung erheblich ein. Hier diskutieren wir das enzymatische Strukturprinzip, auf dem unser Konzept der Rückgratbindung beruht. Besonderes Augenmerk richten wir auf die Anwendung des Konzepts in unseren jüngeren Arbeiten zu antiviralen Inhibitoren der HIV‐1‐Protease.
Investigation of polyurethane (urea)/modified nano‐calcium carbonate hybrid aqueous dispersions and their films
Authors: Dongya Yang , Hanqing Zhang , Fengxian Qiu , Li Han
Published: January 2012

This investigation was focused on properties of polyurethane (urea) (PUU) by incorporating silica sol‐modified nano‐calcium carbonate (CaCO3). The FT‐IR spectroscopy and ζ potential measurement indicated the presence of a hybrid effect due to the hydrogen bonding between the nano particles and the polymer matrix. For these hybrid aqueous dispersions, the particle size decreased as the modified nano‐CaCO3 content increased, and the polydispersity index was very narrow (<1.20). Films prepared with the hybrid PUU aqueous dispersions exhibited excellent waterproof performance: the amount of water absorption was as low as 9.0 wt %, and the contact angle of water on the surface of this kind of film was as high as 93°C. TGA results indicated the high thermal stability of hybrid PUU polymers (223–255°C). The properties like tensile strength, hardness, and elongation at break were influenced by the modified nano‐CaCO3 content in the polymers. The hybrid PUU with 15 wt % modified nano‐CaCO3 content showed the optimum properties. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Synthesis and characterization of poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(ε‐caprolactone) copolymers with functional side groups on the polyester block
Authors: Chen Wen‐Hsin , Hua Mu‐Yi , Lee Ren‐Shen
Published: January 2012

This study reports the successful synthesis of amphiphilic MPEG‐b‐PCL based‐block copolymers bearing benzyloxy and hydroxyl side groups on the PCL block by ring‐opening polymerization of 4‐benzyloxy‐ε‐caprolactone (4‐BOCL) and ε‐caprolactone (ε‐CL) with methoxy PEG (550 g mol−1) as the initiator and Tin(II) 2‐ethylhexanoate (SnOct2) as the catalyst. These copolymers were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), 1H NMR, and gel permeation chromatography. The thermal properties (Tg and Tms) of the block copolymers depend on the polymer composition. Incorporating a greater amount of 4‐BOCL and/or ε‐CL was incorporated into the macromolecular backbone causes a decrease Tg, and an increase in Tms. The micellar characteristics in the aqueous phase were investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). A lower critical micelle concentration (CMC) was observed in MPEG12‐b‐PBOCL12‐b‐PCL series, which have higher hydrophobic components in the copolymers. However, contrasting results were observed for MPEG12‐b‐PBOCL27‐b‐PCL systems. The micelle exhibited a spindle shape, with an average size of less than 200 nm. A weak drug entrapment efficiency and drug‐loading ability of these micelles were observed. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Photoinitiated polymerization of bisphenol a epoxy diacrylates with bis[4(2‐hydroxy‐3‐ acryloyloxypropoxy)phenyl]sulfide
Authors: Gil Malgorzata , Gawdzik Barbara , Podkościelna Beata
Published: January 2012

Photopolymerization of commercially available bisphenol A epoxy diacrylates with bis[4(2‐hydroxy‐3‐acryloyloxypropoxy)phenyl]sulfide (BES‐DA)—a monomer synthesized by our group in previous study was carried out. As this compound is solid at room temperature in its polymerization reactive diluent N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone, which is also comonomer, has been applied. As a photoinitiator, 2‐hydroxy‐2‐methyl‐1‐phenylpropan‐1‐one (Darocur 1173) was used. Thermal and mechanical properties of the obtained compositions were studied. The results show that thermal properties of both epoxy diacrylates improve with the increasing concentration of BES‐DA. The addition of N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone causes decrease of their storage moduli and glass transition temperatures. Simultaneously, it allows to increase the conversion of double bonds. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Cure and thermal stability of poly(amide‐amidic acid)—cured tetraglycidyl 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane
Authors: Chen Haiming , Lu Renguo , Li Pei , Wang Hongyan , Huang Ting , Huang Zhongyuan , Li Tongsheng
Published: January 2012

A novel curing agent, poly (amide‐amidic acid) (PAA), was used to cure tetraglycidyl 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylmethane (TGDDM). The initial cure and exothermic peak temperatures increased with increase in PAA content. The mechanism for the cure of TGDDM/PAA was proposed which involved, besides TGDDM cure, PAA imidization in the system. Examination of the morphology of the fractured surface using scanning electron microscopy showed that curing with PAA improved more the fracture toughness as compared to the conventional 4,4′‐diaminodiphenylsulfone (DDS), and rendered TGDDM more fire resistant with higher char yield. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Disease activity, severity, and damage in the UK juvenile‐onset systemic lupus erythematosus cohort
Authors: Watson Louise , Leone Valentina , Pilkington Clarissa , Tullus Kjell , Rangaraj Satyapal , McDonagh Janet E. , Gardner‐Medwin Janet , Wilkinson Nick , Riley Phil , Tizard Jane , Armon Kate , Sinha Manish D. , Ioannou Yiannis , Archer Neil , Bailey Kathryn , Davidson Joyce , Baildam Eileen M. , Cleary Gavin , McCann Liza J. , Beresford Michael W. ,   on behalf of the UK Juvenile‐Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Study Group
Published: January 2012

Objective

The UK Juvenile‐Onset Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (JSLE) Cohort Study is a multicenter collaborative network established with the aim of improving the understanding of juvenile SLE. The present study was undertaken to describe the clinical manifestations and disease course in patients with juvenile SLE from this large, national inception cohort.

Methods

Detailed data on clinical phenotype were collected at baseline and at regular clinic reviews and annual followup assessments in 232 patients from 14 centers across the UK over 4.5 years. Patients with SLE were identified according to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) SLE classification criteria. The present cohort comprised children with juvenile SLE (n = 198) whose diagnosis fulfilled ≥4 of the ACR criteria for SLE.

Results

Among patients with juvenile SLE, the female:male sex distribution was 5.6:1 and the median age at diagnosis was 12.6 years (interquartile range 10.4–14.5 years). Male patients were younger than female patients (P < 0.01). Standardized ethnicity data demonstrated a greater risk of juvenile SLE in non‐Caucasian UK patients (P < 0.05). Scores on the pediatric adaptation of the 2004 British Isles Lupus Assessment Group disease activity index demonstrated significantly increased frequencies of musculoskeletal (82%), renal (80%), hematologic (91%), immunologic (54%), and neurologic (26%) involvement among the patients over time. A large proportion of the patients (93%) were taking steroids and 24% of the patients required treatment with cyclophosphamide. Disease damage was common, with 28% of the patients having a Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/ACR damage score of ≥1.

Conclusion

The data on these patients from the UK JSLE Cohort Study, comprising one of the largest national inception cohorts of patients with juvenile SLE to date, indicate that severe organ involvement and significant disease activity are primary characteristics in children with juvenile SLE. In addition, accumulation of disease‐associated damage could be seen.
Light‐Harvesting Hybrid Assemblies
Authors: Rao K. Venkata , Datta K. K. R. , Eswaramoorthy Muthusamy , George Subi. J.
Published: January 2012

Light‐harvesting hybrids have gained much importance as they are considered as potential mimics for photosynthetic systems. In this Concept article we introduce the design concepts involved in the building up of light‐harvesting hybrids; these resemble the well‐studied organic‐based assemblies for energy transfer. We have structured this article into three parts based on the strategies adopted in the synthesis of hybrid assemblies, as covalent, semicovalent, and noncovalent procedures. Furthermore, the properties and structural features of the hybrids and analogous organic assemblies are compared. We also emphasize the challenges involved in the processability of these hybrid materials for device applications and present our views and results to address this issue through the design of soft‐hybrids by a solution‐state, noncovalent, self‐assembly process.
Estimations of the increasing prevalence and plateau prevalence of chronic myeloid leukemia in the era of tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy
Authors: Huang Xuelin , Cortes Jorge , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

The annual incidence of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in the United States is approximately 4800 cases. With the success of tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy, the all‐cause annual mortality rate was reduced to 2%. Therefore, the prevalence of CML is increasing over time. Estimating the CML prevalence and plateau prevalence is important in the implementation of health care strategies and future therapeutic trials. The objective of this report was to estimate the increasing prevalence and plateau prevalence of CML in future years.

METHODS:

The prevalence of CML was estimated based on several parameters: the annual mortality rate on TKI therapy compared with a age‐matched, normal population; the incidence of CML; the anticipated population growth in the United States; and aging of the population.

RESULTS:

On the basis of these calculations, the mortality ratio of patients with CML compared with an age‐matched normal population was approximately 1.53. The estimated prevalence of CML is approximately 70,000 in 2010, 112,000 in 2020, 144,000 in 2030, 167,000 in 2040, and 181,000 in 2050, when it will reach a near plateau prevalence.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that the prevalence of CML will continue to increase to reach a near plateau prevalence 35 times the annual incidence. These estimates should be considered in health care policies and in the design of future studies in CML. Cancer 2012;118: 3123–27. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Proteomic investigation of anti‐tumor activities exerted by sinularin against A2058 melanoma cells
Authors: Su Tzu‐Rong , Lin Jen‐Jie , Chiu Chien‐Chih , Chen Jeff Yi‐Fu , Su Jui‐Hsin , Cheng Zhi‐Jiao , Hwang Wen‐Ing , Huang Han Hsiang , Wu Yu‐Jen
Published: January 2012

The extracts from soft corals have been increasingly investigated for biomedical and therapeutic purposes. The aim of this study is to examine and analyze the anti‐tumor effects of the genus Sinularia extract sinularin on A2058 melanoma cells using MTT assay, cell migration assay, wound healing assay, flow cytometric analysis, and proteomic analysis. Sinularin dose‐dependently (1–5 μg/mL) inhibited melanoma cell proliferation while the treatment at identical concentrations suppressed cell migration. Sinularin dose‐dependently enhanced apoptotic melanoma cells and caused tumor cell accumulation at G2/M phase, indicating that sinularin exerts apoptosis‐induced and cell cycle‐delayed activities in A2058 melanoma cells. Comparative proteomic analysis was conducted to investigate the effects of sinularin at the molecular level by comparison between the protein profiling of melanoma cells treated with sinularin and without the treatment. Thirty‐five differential proteins (13 upregulated and 22 downregulated) concerning the treatment were identified by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Proteomic data and Western blot displayed the levels of several tumor inhibitory or apoptosis‐associated proteins including annexin A1, voltage‐dependent anion‐selective channel protein 1 and prohibitin (upregulated), heat shock protein 60, heat shock protein beta‐1, and peroxiredoxin‐2 (downregulated) in A2058 melanoma cells exposed to sinularin. Increased expression of p53, cleaved‐caspase‐3, cleaved‐caspase‐8, cleaved‐caspase‐9, p21, and Bax and decreased expression of Bcl‐2 in sinularin‐treated melanoma cells suggest that the anti‐tumor activities of sinularin against melanoma cells are particularly correlated with these pro‐apoptotic factors. These data provide important information for the mechanisms of anti‐tumor effects of sinularin on melanoma cells and may be helpful for drug development and progression monitoring of human melanoma.
Effect of halloysite nanotubes on mechanical properties and flammability of soy protein based green composites
Authors: Nakamura R. , Netravali A. N. , Morgan A. B. , Nyden M. R. , Gilman J. W.
Published: January 2012

To address the growing emphasis on the use and development of sustainable materials, bio‐based polymers and fibers are processed to prepare entirely bio‐based fiber‐reinforced ‘green’ composites. To enable these new materials to perform in lightweight vehicle and infrastructural applications, they must be characterized both structurally and in terms of their various performance characteristics. The results of preparation and characterization of bio‐based composites comprising jute fabric and soy protein concentrate (SPC) modified with glycerol and/or halloysite nanotubes (HNT) are reported herein as a first look at the flammability of these bio‐based nanocomposites. The results reveal that SPC has lower flammability (heat release capacity) than petrochemical‐based resins, such as epoxies and vinyl esters. In addition, incorporating 5% mass fraction of HNT is found to reduce the composite flammability, while having no negative impact on the mechanical properties. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Distribution pattern of exotic plants in the metropolitan area of Sapporo (Japan) in relation to life form and immigration date
Authors: Tsuyuzaki S. , Nakajima H. , Hirata A. K. B. , Koyama A.
Published: January 2012

To detect the invasiveness of exotic plants and their effects on native species, the distribution patterns of exotics and natives were examined in the metropolitan city of Sapporo (1,121 km2), northern Japan, by flora lists for 53 districts. The urbanization history has two phases, after the 1868 Meiji Restoration, and after the 1945 World War II End. We analyzed the plant distribution patterns digitized by flora list recorded 45 years after the World War II. The distribution was compared with life forms, immigration ages and environmental factors by numerical analyses. The findings are: (1) Exotics immigrated to the whole areas for short term, and the distribution patterns were determined more by social and economic factors, in particular population density, than by physical factors, such as elevation and geology. (2) Life form is related to the distribution of exotics; viz. annual exotics establish intensively in urbanized areas but do not exclude natives, while perennial exotics, in particular, immigrated before World War II are widespread. To restrict exotics, therefore, prompt treatment to new perennial exotics before becoming biologically invasive plants is important for conserving natural flora. (3) However, the number of exotics increased with the number of natives, showing that the exotics have not significantly deteriorated native flora in the present. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Experimentelle Untersuchungen an Rivulus cylindraceus (Cyprinidontidae, Rivulinae) zum Einfluß subletaler Konzentrationen ionogener Detergentien auf Embryonen, Larven und Jungfische
Authors: Wienberg Reinhard
Published: January 2012

Embryos, larvae and fry of the cyprinidontid Rivulus cylindraceus, subjected to sublethal concentrations of the branched alkyl benzene sulfonate TBS, were investigated with respect to mortality rates, deformities, hatching and activity (frequency of heart pulsation, pectoral fin beating and body movements of the embryos, swimming behaviour and activity of larvae and fry).

If environmental conditions are optimal, sublethal concentrations seem to have no effect on an entire larval or young fish stock. On the other hand, if other stressing environmental factors of natural or human origin accompany them, such as lack of nutritional supply, an effect on a stock is possible at low sublethal concentrations.