bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioprospecting the thermal waters of the Roman baths: isolation of oleaginous species and analysis of the FAME profile for biodiesel production
Authors: Smith-Bädorf Holly D , Chuck Christopher J , Mokebo Kirsty R , MacDonald Heather , Davidson Matthew G , Scott Rod J
Published: January 2013

The extensive diversity of microalgae provides an opportunity to undertake bioprospecting for species possessing features suited to commercial scale cultivation. The outdoor cultivation of microalgae is subject to extreme temperature fluctuations; temperature tolerant microalgae would help mitigate this problem. The waters of the Roman Baths, which have a temperature range between 39°C and 46°C, were sampled for microalgae. A total of 3 green algae, 1 diatom and 4 cyanobacterial species were successfully isolated into ‘unialgal’ culture. Four isolates were filamentous, which could prove advantageous for low energy dewatering of cultures using filtration.

Lipid content, profiles and growth rates of the isolates were examined at temperatures of 20, 30, 40°C, with and without nitrogen starvation and compared against the oil producing green algal species, Chlorella emersonii. Some isolates synthesized high levels of lipids, however, all were most productive at temperatures lower than those of the Roman Baths. The eukaryotic algae accumulated a range of saturated and polyunsaturated FAMEs and all isolates generally showed higher lipid accumulation under nitrogen deficient conditions (Klebsormidium sp. increasing from 1.9% to 16.0% and Hantzschia sp. from 31.9 to 40.5%). The cyanobacteria typically accumulated a narrower range of FAMEs that were mostly saturated, but were capable of accumulating a larger quantity of lipid as a proportion of dry weight (M. laminosus, 37.8% fully saturated FAMEs). The maximum productivity of all the isolates was not determined in the current work and will require further effort to optimise key variables such as light intensity and media composition.
Optimization of the production and characterization of milk clotting enzymes by Bacillus subtilis natto
Authors: Wu Fang-Chen , Chang Chen-Wei , Shih Ing-Lung
Published: January 2013

Suitable medium for production of milk clotting enzyme (MCE) byBacillus subtilis(natto) Takahashi in submerged liquid-state fermentation was screened, the nutrient factors affecting MCE production was optimized by response surface methodology. The MCE production byB.subtilis(natto) Takahashi was increased significantly by 428% in the optimal medium developed. The MCE was filtered and concentrated by ultrafiltration. The retentate after tandem filtration carried out with the combined membranes of MWCO 50kDa and 5 kDa showed two major bands between 25kDa and 30kDa on SDS-PAGE, and the MCA and MCA/PA improved significantly in comparison with those in the initial broth. The crude enzyme thus obtained showed MCA and MCA/PA ratio of 48,000 SU/g and 6,400, which are commensurate with those (MCA 26,667 SU/g and MCA/PA 6,667) of the commercial rennet. It had optimal pH and temperature at pH 6 and 60°C, and showed excellent pH and thermal stability.
Hormone-sensing cells require Wip1 for paracrine stimulation in normal and premalignant mammary epithelium
Authors: Tarulli Gerard A , De Silva Duvini , Ho Victor , Kunasegaran Kamini , Ghosh Kakaly , Tan Bryan C , Bulavin Dmitry V , Pietersen Alexandra M
Published: January 2013

Introduction

The molecular circuitry of different cell types dictates their normal function as well as their response to oncogene activation. For instance, mice lacking the Wip1 phosphatase (also known as PPM1D; protein phosphatase magnesium-dependent 1D) have a delay in HER2/neu (human epidermal growth factor 2), but not Wnt1-induced mammary tumor formation. This suggests a cell type-specific reliance on Wip1 for tumorigenesis, because alveolar progenitor cells are the likely target for transformation in the MMTV(mouse mammary tumor virus)-neu but not MMTV-wnt1 breast cancer model.

Methods

In this study, we used the Wip1-knockout mouse to identify the cell types that are dependent on Wip1 expression and therefore may be involved in the early stages of HER2/neu-induced tumorigenesis.

Results

We found that alveolar development during pregnancy was reduced in Wip1-knockout mice; however, this was not attributable to changes in alveolar cells themselves. Unexpectedly, Wip1 allows steroid hormone-receptor-positive cells but not alveolar progenitors to activate STAT5 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 5) in the virgin state. In the absence of Wip1, hormone-receptor-positive cells have significantly reduced transcription of RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand) and IGF2 (insulin-like growth factor 2), paracrine stimulators of alveolar development. In the MMTV-neu model, HER2/neu activates STAT5 in alveolar progenitor cells independent of Wip1, but HER2/neu does not override the defect in STAT5 activation in Wip1-deficient hormone-sensing cells, and paracrine stimulation remains attenuated. Moreover, ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) activation by HER2/neu in hormone-sensing cells is also Wip1 dependent.

Conclusions

We identified Wip1 as a potentiator of prolactin and HER2/neu signaling strictly in the molecular context of hormone-sensing cells. Furthermore, our findings highlight that hormone-sensing cells convert not only estrogen and progesterone but also prolactin signals into paracrine instructions for mammary gland development. The instructive role of hormone-sensing cells in premalignant development suggests targeting Wip1 or prolactin signaling as an orthogonal strategy for inhibiting breast cancer development or relapse.
Editorial: Hematopoietic cell function—a matter of age
Authors: Zarbock Alexander , Rossaint Jan
Published: January 2013

Discussion on the function of hematopoietic cells, focusing on neutrophils, monocytes, and platelets during human ontogeny.
The effect of adsorption and Knudsen diffusion on the steady-state permeability of microporous rocks
Authors: Allan Adam M. , Mavko Gary
Published: January 2013

Microporous rocks are being increasingly researched as novel exploration and development technologies facilitate production of the reserves confined in the low-permeability reservoir. The ability to numerically estimate effective permeability is pivotal to characterizing the production capability of microporous reservoirs. In this study, a novel methodology is presented for estimating the steady-state effective permeability from FIB-SEM volumes. We quantify the effect of a static adsorbed monolayer and Knudsen diffusion on effective permeability as a function of pore pressure to better model production of microporous rock volumes. The adsorbed layer is incorporated by generating an effective pore geometry with a pore pressure-dependent layer of immobile voxels at the fluid-solid interface. Due to the steady-state nature of this study, surface diffusion within the adsorbed layer and topological variations of the layer within pores are neglected, potentially resulting in underestimation of effective permeability over extended production time periods. Knudsen diffusion and gas slippage is incorporated through computation of an apparent permeability that accounts for the rarefaction of the pore fluid. We determine that at syn-production pore pressures, permeability varies significantly as a function of the phase of the pore fluid. Simulation of methane transport in micropores indicates that, in the supercritical regime, the effect of Knudsen diffusion relative to adsorption is significantly reduced resulting in effective permeability values up to 10 nanodarcies ([Formula: see text]) less or 40% lower than the continuum prediction. Contrastingly, at subcritical pore pressures, the effective permeability is significantly greater than the continuum prediction due to rarefaction of the gas and the onset of Knudsen diffusion. For example, at 1 MPa, the effective permeability of the kerogen body is five times the continuum prediction. This study demonstrates the importance of, and provides a novel methodology for, incorporating noncontinuum effects in the estimation of the transport properties of microporous rocks.
Role of the Endothelial-Derived Endogenous Anti-Inflammatory Factor Del-1 in Inflammation-Mediated Adrenal Gland Dysfunction
Authors: Kanczkowski Waldemar , Chatzigeorgiou Antonios , Grossklaus Sylvia , Sprott David , Bornstein Stefan R. , Chavakis Triantafyllos
Published: January 2013

Inflammation in the course of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) or sepsis often results in dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis; however, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. The adrenal gland is highly vascularized; thus, we hypothesized that endothelial dysfunction may actively participate in inflammation-related adrenal insufficiency. To address this hypothesis, we used the properties of developmental endothelial locus-1 (Del-1), which is an endothelial-derived anti-inflammatory factor that antagonizes integrin-dependent leukocyte adhesion. Here we identified that Del-1 is expressed in the adrenal gland and that its expression was down-regulated upon SIRS induction by systemic lipopolysaccharide administration. Furthermore, we observed increased leukocyte accumulation, inflammation, and higher apoptosis in the adrenal glands of Del-1–deficient mice as compared with wild-type mice. Strikingly, Del-1 deficiency was also associated with reduced corticosterone and ACTH levels 24 hours after lipopolysaccharide administration. Together, these data suggest that Del-1 may act as a gatekeeper of adrenal gland inflammation and may regulate the integrity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis stress response, thereby modulating adrenal (dys)function in the course of SIRS.
Laboring Above Ground: Indigenous Women in New Spain’s Silver Mining District, Zacatecas, Mexico, 1620–1770
Authors: Murillo Dana Velasco
Published: January 2013

This article considers the roles and experiences of indigenous women in the silver mining town of Zacatecas, Mexico, from the early seventeenth century through the late colonial period (1620–1770). Indigenous women of all ages and civil statuses migrated and settled in Zacatecas through the colonial period. Using Spanish sources, this article highlights the importance of their contributions to the production of silver and to the settlement of the city and its four Indian towns. It argues for a broader understanding of the labor involved in silver production to include activities performed outside the mines by women. Some of this work involved the preparation and distribution of goods and foodstuffs and basic housekeeping at mining haciendas, and women’s engagement with small-scale trade, market activities, and the management of properties in the city. Indian women also contributed to the vitality of the city and its Indian communities, migrating and settling in Zacatecas in large numbers even during periods of mining declines. Within these communities, episodes of high male absenteeism often left Indian women in charge of their households. As primary caretakers, they cared for their children and often used legal measures to protect them from abusive labor practices common to mining towns. Ultimately, this article argues that indigenous women’s roles above ground were as important as those performed by their male, silver-extracting counterparts below ground.
On the embryonic origin of adult melanophores: the role of ErbB and Kit signalling in establishing melanophore stem cells in zebrafish
Authors: Dooley Christopher M. , Mongera Alessandro , Walderich Brigitte , Nüsslein-Volhard Christiane
Published: January 2013

Pigment cells in vertebrates are derived from the neural crest (NC), a pluripotent and migratory embryonic cell population. In fishes, larval melanophores develop during embryogenesis directly from NC cells migrating along dorsolateral and ventromedial paths. The embryonic origin of the melanophores that emerge during juvenile development in the skin to contribute to the striking colour patterns of adult fishes remains elusive. We have identified a small set of melanophore progenitor cells (MPs) in the zebrafish (Danio rerio, Cyprinidae) that is established within the first 2 days of embryonic development in close association with the segmentally reiterated dorsal root ganglia (DRGs). Lineage analysis and 4D in vivo imaging indicate that progeny of these embryonic MPs spread segmentally, giving rise to the melanophores that create the adult melanophore stripes. Upon depletion of larval melanophores by morpholino knockdown of Mitfa, the embryonic MPs are prematurely activated; their progeny migrate along the spinal nerves restoring the larval pattern and giving rise to postembryonic MPs associated with the spinal nerves. Mutational or chemical inhibition of ErbB receptors blocks all early NC migration along the ventromedial path, causing a loss of DRGs and embryonic MPs. We show that the sparse like (slk) mutant lacks larval and metamorphic melanophores and identify kit ligand a (kitlga) as the underlying gene. Our data suggest that kitlga is required for the establishment or survival of embryonic MPs. We propose a model in which DRGs provide a niche for the stem cells of adult melanophores.
The Frizzled-dependent planar polarity pathway locally promotes E-cadherin turnover via recruitment of RhoGEF2
Authors: Warrington Samantha J. , Strutt Helen , Strutt David
Published: January 2013

Polarised tissue elongation during morphogenesis involves cells within epithelial sheets or tubes making and breaking intercellular contacts in an oriented manner. Growing evidence suggests that cell adhesion can be modulated by endocytic trafficking of E-cadherin (E-cad), but how this process can be polarised within individual cells is poorly understood. The Frizzled (Fz)-dependent core planar polarity pathway is a major regulator of polarised cell rearrangements in processes such as gastrulation, and has also been implicated in regulation of cell adhesion through trafficking of E-cad; however, it is not known how these functions are integrated. We report a novel role for the core planar polarity pathway in promoting cell intercalation during tracheal tube morphogenesis in Drosophila embryogenesis, and present evidence that this is due to regulation of turnover and levels of junctional E-cad by the guanine exchange factor RhoGEF2. Furthermore, we show that core pathway activity leads to planar-polarised recruitment of RhoGEF2 and E-cad turnover in the epidermis of both the embryonic germband and the pupal wing. We thus reveal a general mechanism by which the core planar polarity pathway can promote polarised cell rearrangements.
Lateral Flow Assay with Near-Infrared Dye for Multiplex Detection
Authors: Swanson Christina , D'Andrea Annalisa
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

Lateral flow assays (LFAs) are popular point-of-care diagnostic tools because they are rapid and easy to use. Nevertheless, they often lack analytical sensitivity and quantitative output and may be difficult to multiplex, limiting their usefulness in biomarker measurement. As a proof-of-concept study, we detail the design of a quantitative, multiplex LFA with readily available near-infrared (NIR) detection to improve analytical sensitivity.

METHODS

NIR dye was conjugated to selected antibodies and incorporated into LFAs. We used singleplex, optimized NIR-LFAs to measure interleukin (IL)-6 from 0 to 200 pg/mL and developed duplex assays to simultaneously measure IL-6 from 0 to 100 pg/mL (0 to 4.5 pmol/L) and C-reactive protein (CRP) from 50 to 2500 ng/mL (0.4 to 20 nmol/L) on a single test strip. Assays were tested on 60 different spiked samples and compared to ELISA results.

RESULTS

NIR-LFAs detected IL-6 in a 10% plasma matrix with a limit of detection of 4 pg/mL (182 fmol/L) and a CV <7%. Duplex NIR-LFAs quantitatively measured IL-6 and CRP concentrations simultaneously. Values strongly correlated to ELISA measurements, with R2 values of 0.9825 and 0.9711 for IL-6 and CRP, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

NIR-LFAs exhibit quantitative measurement at pg/mL concentrations owing to a high signal-to-BACKGROUND ratio and robust detection antibody clearance through the test strip. Moreover, NIR-LFAs are able to detect molecules present at vastly different concentrations in multiplex format and compare favorably to ELISAs. LFAs with direct NIR detection may be a valuable tool for biomarker evaluation in the point-of-care setting.
Hong Sangsoo’s Codes Of Parallelism
Authors: Unger Michael
Published: January 2013

Korean filmmaker Hong Sangsoo’s films are remarkable in their similarity to one another not only in subject matter but also in their formalism. His minimalist oeuvre is highly self-reflexive. Hong’s unique approach to parallelism utilizes different forms of repetition that
re-position the audience from seeing his films to reading them. Through the act of apperception, ‘the echo effect’ and other cinematic strategies he problematizes the traditional construction of parallelism in which the same cinematic signifiers refer to the same concrete reference.
His films boldly embrace reception theory by making the audience the bearer of connotative meaning in how it perceives parallelism to be indeed parallel and significant.
Sounds for a strange funeral
Authors: Langkjær Birger
Published: January 2013

Cat’s Cradle metaphorically stages the image schema ‘death as a path’. It is argued that the strangeness of the fiction, its ritualistic surrealism, is enhanced by its soundtrack, which downplays the natural link between human action and environment. Instead, the sound
seems to emphasize more abstract and thematic aspects.
The bliss of an eternal deferral: The temporality of cinema in Cat’s Cradle
Authors: Meneses Juan
Published: January 2013

Both despite and because of its numerous references to the act of passage, Cat’s Cradle by Liz Hughes presents a narrative that joyfully erases the cruelty of death. This article examines the metanarrative devices deployed by the film to create, through contrast, a sense of endless
anticipation to a loss eternally deferred.
The hold of interpretive doubt: When response overpowers narrative
Authors: Bossche Astrid Van Den
Published: January 2013

Initial responses to a moving image, even when subsequently revised, can anchor the viewer’s experience in a framework that tints, and potentially overpowers, the narrative drama. In Cat’s Cradle, questioning the father’s deadness results in enriching layers of semiotic
exploration and reflection.
Performance choices in Eating Out
Authors: Morgan Michael
Published: January 2013

Eating Out features character interaction, yet each of the four characters appears to be in a different film. This article will examine how performance choices define character interaction. I will identify each character’s ‘circumstances’, ‘objectives’
and ‘actions’, considering how they work together in the short film.
Saúde suplementar no Brasil: abordagens sobre a articulação público/privada na assistência à saúde
Authors: Sestelo José Antonio de Freitas , Souza Luis Eugenio Portela Fernandes de , Bahia Lígia
Published: January 2013

Este artigo parte de uma revisão de 270 textos sobre saúde suplementar publicados entre 2000 e 2010, e seleciona 17 que abordam a questão da articulação entre o público e o privado na assistência à saúde. A análise do seu conteúdo considera os conceitos e expressões utilizadas, os elementos teóricos relacionados e as linhas argumentativas predominantes. A leitura das estratégias argumentativas aponta a existência de uma visão crítica sobre o atual modus operandi da articulação público/privado, fundamentada na Medicina Social e nas bases teóricas do movimento da Reforma Sanitária Brasileira, ao lado de contribuições que, apoiadas em visões empresariais inspiradas por uma perspectiva neoliberal, tomam os aspectos econômicos em seu sentido estrito como foco da discussão sobre saúde suplementar. Resta evidente que a compreensão da articulação público/privada na saúde requer o desenvolvimento de uma sólida base empírica, analisada com base em pressupostos teóricos adequados ao grau de complexidade inerente à zona de fronteira da articulação entre o público e o privado na assistência à saúde.
Disordered eating among Brazilian female college students
Authors: Alvarenga Marle dos Santos , Lourenço Bárbara Hatzlhoffer , Philippi Sonia Tucunduva , Scagliusi Fernanda Baeza
Published: January 2013

This study aimed to investigate the socioeconomic and nutritional factors associated with disordered eating among Brazilian female college students (n = 2,489). Prevalence ratios of risk factors were calculated using Poisson regression models with robust variance based on responses to selected questions from the Eating Attitude Test and Disordered Eating Attitude Scale. It was found that 40.7% of students were dieting, 35.6% were using diet or compensatory methods, 23.9% skipping meals, 12.6% not eating or just drinking liquids, and 3.3%, vomiting to lose weight. A positive association was found between not eating or just drinking liquids and skipping meals and nutritional status after adjustment for age and region. A positive association was found between compensatory methods and dieting and education level of the head of the family. Disordered eating behaviors were frequent, and not eating and skipping meals were more prevalent among overweight/obese students; compensatory methods and dieting were less prevalent among students from families whose head had up to only four years of education. Prevention strategies and food education are necessary in order to decrease the prevalence of these behaviors.
Incapacidades físicas em pessoas acometidas pela hanseníase no período pós-alta da poliquimioterapia em um município no Norte do Brasil
Authors: Monteiro Lorena Dias , Alencar Carlos Henrique Morais de , Barbosa Jaqueline Caracas , Braga Katiane Pereira , Castro Milene Damous de , Heukelbach Jorg
Published: January 2013

Danos neurais contribuem para a incapacidade física na hanseníase. O objetivo foi estimar a prevalência de indivíduos com incapacidade física após a alta de poliquimioterapia da hanseníase em Araguaína, Tocantins, Brasil. Estudo transversal com 282 casos novos de 2004 a 2009. O grau de incapacidade no diagnóstico e na cura foi coletado de prontuários e do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação. No pós-alta usou-se o formulário de avaliação neurológica simplificada. A prevalência de incapacidade foi de 29,4%, sendo 8,9% grau 2. Houve associação entre incapacidades físicas com multibacilares (p < 0,001) e com episódios reacionais (p < 0,001). No diagnóstico, a ocorrência de deformidades foi 1,7 vez maior nos homens (IC95%: 1,23-2,37). Entre o diagnóstico e a alta houve piora do grau de incapacidade e esta piora foi maior após a alta: 25%. A piora do grau de incapacidade foi mais expressiva após a alta, apresentando associação com multibacilares e episódios reacionais. É preciso monitoramento contínuo de casos em alta, para prevenir sequelas e limitação funcional.
Factores asociados con el índice de masa corporal materno en un grupo de gestantes adolescentes, Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Zapata-López Natalia , Restrepo-Mesa Sandra Lucía
Published: January 2013

El estudio tuvo como objetivo evaluar la influencia de factores socioeconómicos, de seguridad alimentaria, de salud, y algunas medidas antropométricas, en la clasificación del índice de masa corporal (IMC) en un grupo de gestantes adolescentes de la ciudad de Medellín, Colombia, durante el tercer trimestre de gestación. Se realizó un estudio analítico observacional transversal con 294 gestantes. Para el análisis se utilizó un análisis bivariado y un modelo de regresión logística. La mayor probabilidad de presentar bajo peso gestacional la tuvieron aquellas gestantes cuyas familias devengaban menos de un salario mínimo (OR = 5,8; IC95%: 1,97-16,8). Ser menor de 15 años aumentó cuatro veces la probabilidad bajo peso gestacional y tener un perímetro del brazo y de pantorrilla por encima de 24cm y 32cm, respectivamente, reduce la probabilidad de presentar bajo peso gestacional en un 94% (perímetro de brazo: OR = 0,1; IC95%: 0,0-0,2); (perímetro de pantorrilla: OR = 0,1; IC95%: 0,0-0,2). Se concluye que los ingresos y la edad cronológica se asociaron con el bajo peso gestacional. Los perímetros de brazo y pantorrilla se correlacionaron de forma positiva con el peso materno.
Diagnóstico da tuberculose: desempenho do primeiro serviço de saúde procurado em São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Ponce Maria Amélia Zanon , Wysocki Anneliese Domingues , Scatolin Beatriz Estuque , Andrade Rubia Laine de Paula , Arakawa Tiemi , Ruffino Netto Antonio , Monroe Aline Aparecida , Scatena Lucia Marina , Vendramini Sílvia Helena Figueiredo , Villa Tereza Cristina Scatena
Published: January 2013

Estudo transversal com objetivo de analisar o desempenho do primeiro serviço de saúde procurado para o diagnóstico da TB pulmonar em São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brasil, em 2009. Foram entrevistados 81 doentes em tratamento. Adotou-se um questionário baseado no Primary Care Assessment Tool, adaptado para atenção à TB, e o referencial de avaliação dos serviços de saúde (estrutura e processo). Os dados foram analisados mediante técnicas descritivas e análise de correspondência múltipla. O principal serviço procurado foi o Pronto Atendimento (UPA) (49,4%) e o que mais diagnosticou os casos de TB foi o hospital (39,5%) e a atenção básica (30,9%). Os serviços especializados apresentaram associação com o melhor desempenho no diagnóstico e a UPA com o pior. A atenção básica associou-se com desempenho intermediário e fragilidades na estrutura. O alcance de uma detecção eficaz dos casos de TB nas principais portas de entrada perpassa pela melhoria na suspeição, reforçando a necessidade de investimentos da gestão na capacitação dos recursos humanos para a identificação dos sintomáticos respiratórios.
Associação entre deficiências físicas e hospitalizações na população da cidade de São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Castro Shamyr Sulyvan , Carandina Luana , Barros Marilisa Berti de Azevedo , Goldbaum Moisés , Cesar Chester Luiz Galvão
Published: January 2013

O objetivo foi verificar a associação entre presença de deficiências físicas e hospitalizações na cidade de São Paulo, Brasil. Foi realizado inquérito de saúde na cidade de São Paulo em 2008. Utilizou-se processo de amostragem probabilística, estratificada (sexo/idade) e por conglomerados em dois estágios (setores censitários e domicílios). Os dados foram coletados por entrevistas por meio de um questionário estruturado, com 21 blocos, com a maioria das questões fechadas. A análise inferencial foi realizada com o uso de razões de prevalência (RP) bruta e ajustada e intervalo de 95% de confiança (IC95%) pelo método de regressão de Poisson. O módulo survey do programa Stata 9.2 foi usado para as análises, com significância de 5%. Foram entrevistadas 2.690 pessoas, com idade média de 38,75 anos (IC95%: 37,54-39,96). A hospitalização foi associada à deficiência (auditiva, RP = 1,59; física, RP = 3,77; múltipla, RP = 3,26). As pessoas com deficiência (auditiva, física - paralisia/amputação e múltipla) relataram internações com mais frequência que aquelas sem deficiência.
The hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype in young adults from the Southern Region of Brazil
Authors: Haack Ricardo Lanzetta , Horta Bernardo Lessa , Gigante Denise Petrucci , Barros Fernando C. , Oliveira Isabel , Silveira Vera M.
Published: January 2013

The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of the hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype and its associated factors among subjects that have been followed up from birth. In 1982, all maternity hospitals in the city of Pelotas, in the Southern Region of Brazil, were visited and all births were recorded. Babies whose parents lived in the urban area of Pelotas were subsequently followed up on several occasions. A 22 to 23-year follow-up of this birth cohort was carried out in 2004 and 2005. The presence of the hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype was defined as waist circumference ≥ 90cm and triglyceride levels ≥ 177mg/dL for males, and waist circumference ≥ 85cm and triglyceride levels ≥ 133mg/dL for females. The prevalence of the hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype was 5.9% and 4.5% among men and women, respectively. Among males, a sedentary lifestyle during leisure time, smoking and obesity were associated with the presence of the hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype, whereas among females the condition was positively associated with skin color, family income, obesity and dietary fat intake.
Concordância entre informações do Cartão da Gestante e do recordatório materno entre puérperas de uma cidade brasileira de médio porte
Authors: Zanchi Mariza , Gonçalves Carla Vitola , Cesar Juraci A. , Dumith Samuel de Carvalho
Published: January 2013

A assistência pré-natal é um indicativo da qualidade dos serviços de saúde. Esse estudo objetivou avaliar a concordância entre os dados do pré-natal da memória materna e do cartão da gestante no Município do Rio Grande, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Estudo transversal incluindo todas puérperas do ano de 2010 que realizaram pré-natal. As entrevistas e a coleta dos dados do cartão ocorreram nas maternidades. Das 2.288 puérperas entrevistadas, 1.228 (53,7%) portavam o cartão da gestante, sendo a comparação realizada nesse grupo. A análise foi feita utilizando-se o teste de concordância kappa e o intervalo de confiança. A realização de seis ou mais consultas de pré-natal, exame das mamas e ginecológico, dois exames de sangue, VDRL, anti-HIV, urina e a vacinação antitetânica demonstraram diferença estatística entre os dados referidos e anotados (p ≤ 0,001). A adequação do pré-natal pelo índice do Programa de Humanização do Pré-Natal (PHPN) nos dados referidos foi de 23,9% e de 4,4% nos dados anotados (p ≤ 0,001). Observamos um sub-registro no cartão da gestante, o qual influenciou negativamente na avaliação da qualidade do pré-natal.
Monitoramento do desempenho da gestão da vigilância em saúde: instrumento e estratégias de uso
Authors: Costa Juliana Martins Barbosa da Silva , Felisberto Eronildo , Bezerra Luciana Caroline de Albuquerque , Cesse Eduarda Ângela Pessoa , Samico Isabella Chagas
Published: January 2013

Propõe-se um instrumento para monitorar o desempenho da Vigilância em Saúde no âmbito estadual e estratégias para ampliar seu uso. Advoga-se o emprego de metodologias participativas em todas as etapas do monitoramento, desde a elaboração do instrumento até a análise e interpretação dos indicadores, como forma de envolver os interessados e (co)responsabilizá-los nas decisões tomadas, aumentando sua utilização. O instrumento de monitoramento foi construído após o delineamento do modelo lógico da gestão da vigilância em saúde e os indicadores representativos de cada componente da gestão passaram por processo de validação. Além de subsidiar a tomada de decisão, o monitoramento é entendido enquanto prática reflexiva capaz de promover o aprendizado pessoal e institucional, melhoria contínua dos processos de gestão, maior transparência e responsabilização.
A configuração da rede social de mulheres em situação de violência doméstica
Authors: Dutra Maria de Lourdes , Prates Paula Licursi , Nakamura Eunice , Villela Wilza Vieira
Published: January 2013

Este artigo apresenta a configuração da rede social das mulheres que vivem em situação de violência doméstica num município da região metropolitana de São Paulo. Foram realizadas entrevistas com nove mulheres e oito profissionais e observação em três serviços que compõem a rede de proteção à mulher. Para a análise utilizou-se os pressupostos teóricos de redes sociais. Verificou-se que a violência impingida às mulheres pelos seus parceiros impossibilita a manutenção dos vínculos sociais, colocando-as em situação de isolamento e fragilidade. As instituições e os profissionais podem exercer um papel fundamental para que as mulheres saiam do ciclo de violência, desde que a rede de atenção e os fluxos entre os serviços sejam organizados. O estudo das redes sociais com o enfoque nos vínculos e trocas entre os atores pode contribuir para ampliar o conhecimento sobre a dinâmica relacional na situação de violência.
Preditores do desconhecimento do status sorológico de HIV entre puérperas submetidas ao teste rápido anti-HIV na internação para o parto
Authors: Soares Marcelo de Lima , Oliveira Maria Inês Couto de , Fonseca Vânia Matos , Brito Alexandre dos Santos , Silva Kátia Silveira da
Published: January 2013

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar fatores associados ao desconhecimento do status sorológico de HIV do pré-natal na internação ao parto. Estudo transversal realizado em 2006 em Hospitais Amigos da Criança do Sistema de Gestação de Alto Risco do SUS no município do Rio de Janeiro. Foram entrevistadas no alojamento conjunto 873 mães submetidas ao teste rápido anti-HIV no hospital. Razões de prevalência (RP) do desconhecimento do status de HIV foram obtidas por regressão de Poisson com variância robusta, com ajuste por características sociodemográficas maternas e familiares, da gravidez e de assistência pré-natal. A prevalência de status ignorado de HIV foi 32,2%. Baixa escolaridade materna, baixa renda materna, ter tido mais de um relacionamento no último ano, início tardio do pré-natal e baixo número de consultas pré-natais mostraram-se associados ao desfecho. O mais importante preditor do desconhecimento do status de HIV na internação para o parto foi o baixo número de consultas pré-natais. Recomenda-se a expansão da cobertura da testagem anti-HIV no pré-natal e a entrega de resultados em tempo hábil, com captação precoce da gestante e incremento no número de consultas, enfocando a clientela de baixo nível socioeconômico.
Fatores associados às alterações da função pulmonar em trabalhadores de indústria de cerâmica
Authors: Salicio Viviane Aparecida Martins Mana , Botelho Clovis , Silva Ageo Mário Cândido da , Salicio Marcos Adriano
Published: January 2013

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar a função pulmonar em trabalhadores de indústrias de cerâmica no município de Várzea Grande, Mato Grosso. Estudo transversal realizado com 183 trabalhadores de indústrias de cerâmica desse município. Para identificação dos fatores sociodemográficos, fatores ambientais e do tabagismo foi utilizado um questionário estruturado e para avaliação da função pulmonar foi realizada a espirometria. Foram realizadas análises descritiva, bivariada e regressão múltipla de Poisson. Os trabalhadores em sua maioria são do sexo masculino (94%) predominando indivíduos com idade até 39 anos (74,9%). A prevalência de sintomáticos respiratórios foi de 44,9%, sendo 14,8% portadores de sintomas considerados como graves e 30,1% sintomas não graves. Foram encontradas associações de função pulmonar alterada com as variáveis tempo de exposição e substância inalada. Os trabalhadores com 4 ou mais anos de exposição apresentaram 1,99 vezes mais função pulmonar alterada que os indivíduos com tempo de exposição de até 3 anos ; os indivíduos que inalaram poeira e desmoldante apresentaram 2,97 vezes mais alteração da função pulmonar. Esta, nos trabalhadores avaliados, está relacionada ao maior tempo de exposição e à inalação de poeira e desmoldante.
Prevalência de obesidade abdominal e excesso de gordura em escolares de uma cidade serrana no sul do Brasil
Authors: Pedroni Josué Luís , Rech Ricardo Rodrigo , Halpern Ricardo , Marin Simone , Roth Lahna dos Reis , Sirtoli Mariana , Cavalli Andressa
Published: January 2013

A obesidade é considerada a mais importante desordem nutricional devido ao aumento acelerado de suas prevalências nos últimos anos. O objetivo do presente estudo foi estimar a prevalência de obesidade abdominal e excesso de gordura em escolares de 11 a 14 anos (meninos e meninas) de uma cidade serrana no sul do Brasil, e verificar as possíveis associações com classificação econômica, sexo, idade, hábitos alimentares, hábitos de vida (atividades físicas e atividades sedentárias) e insatisfação com a imagem corporal. Foram avaliados 1230 escolares através de um estudo transversal. As variáveis antropométricas estudadas foram circunferência da cintura e as dobras cutâneas do tríceps e da panturrilha. Foi realizada uma análise descritiva e uma bivariada entre as variáveis independentes e o desfecho. As prevalências de obesidade abdominal e excesso de gordura corporal foram 28,7% e 40,1%, respectivamente. Houve associação estatítisca significante com maior número de refeições e insatisfação com a imagem corporal para obesidade abdominal, que também esteve associada com os avaliados do sexo feminino, e para excesso de gordura corporal e. As prevalências de obesidade abdominal e excesso de gordura corporal estão elevadas e justificam a implementação de ações de saúde nas escolas.
Deficiência de Vitamina A em mães e filhos no Estado de Pernambuco
Authors: Miglioli Teresa Cristina , Fonseca Vania Matos , Gomes Junior Saint Clair , Lira Pedro Israel Cabral de , Batista Filho Malaquias
Published: January 2013

Analisou-se a prevalência e os fatores associados à deficiência de vitamina A (DVA) em mães (664) e seus filhos (790) menores de cinco anos em Pernambuco/2006. Estudo transversal populacional, com amostra representativa do meio urbano e rural. A DVA foi definida como níveis de retinol sérico < 20µg/dL para os dois grupos (mães e filhos). Análises bi e multivariadas foram realizadas utilizando o modelo log-log complementar como função de ligação adotando-se modelo de ordenação hierárquica explicativa da DVA para as crianças e modelo logístico para as mães. A prevalência de DVA foi 6,9% nas mães e 16,1% em seus filhos, com ocorrências semelhantes para cada grupo na comparação urbano x rural. Na área urbana, o regime de ocupação da moradia teve relação significante com a DVA nas mães. Para crianças urbanas, após o ajuste final do modelo, figuraram como variáveis preditivas a idade da mãe; nº de consultas pré-natais e peso ao nascer. No meio rural a DVA materna se associou à DVA dos filhos RP = 3,99 (IC:1,73-9,19), ao peso ao nascer e diarreia nos últimos 15 dias. A DVA mantém-se como um problema de saúde pública em Pernambuco, com marcantes diferenças de prevalência e fatores associados em mães e filhos.
Transsutural Distraction and Tissue Regeneration of the Midfacial Skeleton: Experimental Studies in Growing Dogs
Authors: Yusheng Yao , Chengyue Wang , Zhiying Wang , Guijun Wang
Published: January 2013

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of different mechanical forces on the expansion of the palatine suture using transsutural distraction osteogenesis.

Methods

A total of 48 dogs were used in this study. The experimental groups were treated with a custom-designed internal distractor. Bone regeneration was determined with x-rays and histology. The computed values underwent statistical analyses using analysis of variance.

Results

The maxillary complex was most noticeably advanced with an applied mechanical force of 600 g (20.15 ± 1.36 mm), compared with forces of 400 g (19.88 ± 1.41 mm) and 800 g (2.24 ± 0.93 mm). Immunohistochemical staining showed that the expression of bone morphogenetic protein-2 and bone morphogenetic protein-4 fluctuated with different mechanical forces. These changes were statistically significant when 600 g of force was applied within 30 days of distraction ( P < .05).

Conclusions

Transsutural distraction osteogenesis in the growing dog should be safe and well tolerated in inducing bony lengthening of the maxilla, and the optimal force is 600 × g. Bone morphogenetic protein-2 and bone morphogenetic protein-4 may play an important roles in the signaling pathways that link mechanical forces and biological responses.
Publicly Funded Clinical Trials and the Future of Cancer Care
Authors: Schilsky Richard L.
Published: January 2013

Publicly sponsored trials, conducted primarily by cooperative groups sponsored by the National Cancer Institute, and commercially sponsored trials are necessary to create new knowledge, improve the care of oncology patients, and develop new drugs and devices. Commercial sponsors launch clinical trials that will result in drug approval, label extension, expansion of market share, and an increase in shareholder value. Conversely, publicly sponsored trials seek to optimize therapy for a particular disease, create new knowledge, and improve public health; these trials can also result in label extension of a drug and even in initial drug approval. Publicly sponsored trials may combine and/or compare drugs developed by different commercial sponsors, develop multimodality therapies (e.g., the combination of chemotherapy and radiation), or develop novel treatment schedules or routes of drug administration (e.g., intraperitoneal chemotherapy). Publicly sponsored trials are more likely to focus on therapies for rare diseases and to study survivorship and quality of life; these areas may not be a priority for commercial entities. Screening and prevention strategies have been developed almost exclusively by the public sector given the large sample size and long follow-up period needed to complete the trial and, therefore, the lack of short-term commercial gain. Finally, given the public nature of the funding, clinical investigators are expected to publish their results even if the outcomes are unfavorable for the investigational therapy. With the ongoing reorganization of the cooperative groups to form a national clinical trials network, opportunities exist to create a robust platform for biomarker discovery and validation through the expanded collection of well-annotated biospecimens obtained from clinical trial participants. Thus, publicly funded trials are vital to developing and refining new cancer treatments and disseminating results to the medical community and the general public.
Sand-geotextile interface characterisation through monotonic and cyclic direct shear tests
Authors: Vieira C.S. , Lopes M.L. , Caldeira L.M.
Published: January 2013

ABSTRACT: For the design and performance analyses of geosynthetic-reinforced soil structures under repeated loading, such as those induced by compaction, traffic and earthquakes, the understanding of cyclic soil–geosynthetic interface behaviour is of great interest. Nevertheless, experimental data concerning this type of behaviour are very scarce. A laboratory study was carried out and is described in this paper. This paper presents the behaviour of an interface between a silica sand and a high-strength geotextile under monotonic and cyclic loading conditions. A large-scale direct shear test device able to perform load- or displacement-controlled cyclic tests was used. The results obtained are presented and discussed, especially in terms of interface shear stiffness and damping ratio. Monotonic direct shear tests indicated that the coefficients of interaction for the sand–geotextile interface depend on the confining pressure. Cyclic direct shear tests indicated that the interface stiffness tends to increase during the first loading cycles, exhibiting slight variation after 10 cycles. Slightly higher values of shear stiffness and damping ratio were reached with displacement-controlled cyclic direct shear tests. The cyclic loading of the interface did not lead to the degradation of the post-cyclic peak shear strength; however, the post-cyclic shear strength for large displacements exhibited an important decrease.
Microbial method for construction of an aquaculture pond in sand
Authors: CHU J. , IVANOV V. , STABNIKOV V. , LI B.
Published: January 2013

A method to construct an aquaculture pond in sand using microbial biocementation is presented in this paper. The microbially induced calcium carbonate precipitation process was used to form a low-permeability layer in sand for the construction of a water pond model in the laboratory. The test results indicated that the permeability of sand was reduced from the order of 10−4 m/s to 10−7 m/s when an average 2·1 kg of calcium (Ca) per m2 of sand surface was precipitated. The bending strengths of the walls and the base of the model pond were in the range of 90–256 kPa. The unconfined compressive strengths for the samples taken from the walls and the base of the pond were in the range of 215–932 kPa.
Habitat loss drives threshold response of benthic invertebrate communities to deposited sediment in agricultural streams
Authors: Burdon Francis J. , McIntosh Angus R. , Harding Jon S.
Published: January 2013

Agricultural land uses can impact stream ecosystems by reducing suitable habitat, altering flows, and increasing inputs of diffuse pollutants including fine inorganic sediment (<2 mm). These changes have been linked to altered community composition and declines in biodiversity. Determining the mechanisms driving stream biotic responses, particularly threshold impacts, has, however, proved elusive. To investigate a sediment threshold response by benthic invertebrates, an intensive survey of 30 agricultural streams was conducted along gradients of deposited sediment and dissolved nutrients. Partial redundancy analysis showed that invertebrate community composition changed significantly along the gradient of deposited fine sediment, whereas the effect of dissolved nitrate was weak. Pollution‐sensitive invertebrates (%EPT, Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera) demonstrated a strong nonlinear response to sediment, and change‐point analysis indicated marked declines beyond a threshold of ∼20% fine sediment covering the streambed. Structural equation modeling indicated that decreased habitat availability (i.e., coarse substrate and associated interstices) was the key driver affecting pollution‐sensitive invertebrates, with degraded riparian condition controlling resources through direct (e.g., inputs) and indirect (e.g., flow‐mediated) effects on deposited sediment. The identification of specific effects thresholds and the underlying mechanisms (e.g., loss of habitat) driving these changes will assist managers in setting sediment criteria and standards to better guide stream monitoring and rehabilitation.
Stronger biotic resistance in tropics relative to temperate zone: effects of predation on marine invasion dynamics
Authors: Freestone Amy L. , Ruiz Gregory M. , Torchin Mark E.
Published: January 2013

Latitudinal patterns of nonnative species richness suggest fewer successful invasions in the tropics, relative to temperate regions. One main hypothesis for this pattern is that biotic resistance to invasion is stronger in the tropics than at higher latitudes. Biotic resistance can limit the distribution and abundance of nonnative species and, in extreme cases, can prevent establishment. We provide the first experimental test of this hypothesis, comparing the strength of biotic resistance in a tropical and a temperate marine ecosystem. Predation is one mechanism of biotic resistance, and since predation can be stronger at lower latitudes, we predicted that predation will serve to increase biotic resistance more in the tropics than at higher latitude. We conducted predator‐exclusion experiments on marine epifaunal communities, a heavily invaded system, focusing on nonnative tunicates as a model fauna. The effect of predation on species richness of nonnative tunicates was more than three times greater at sites in tropical Panama than in temperate Connecticut, consistent with the prediction of stronger biotic resistance in the tropics. In Connecticut, predation reduced the abundance of one nonnative tunicate but did not affect the abundances of any other nonnative tunicate species, and no species were excluded from communities. In contrast, predation resulted in striking reductions in abundance and often exclusion of nonnative tunicates from experimental communities in Panama. If proved to be general, latitudinal differences in the biotic resistance of communities to nonnative species establishment may help explain emerging patterns of global invasions.