bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mindful Leaders in Highly Effective Schools
Authors: Kearney W. Sean , Kelsey Cheryl , Herrington David
Published: April 2013

This article presents a mixed-method study utilizing teacher ratings of principal mindfulness from 149 public schools in Texas and follow-up qualitative data analysis through semi-structured interviews conducted with the top 10 percent of principals identified as mindful. This research is based on the theoretical framework of mindfulness as established by Langer, refined by Weick and Sutcliff and applied to school settings by Hoy. For the quantitative methodology, OLS regression analyses were employed to measure the relative effect of principal influence on student achievement. The results of these analyses indicate that principal mindfulness made a statistically significant independent contribution to the variance in student achievement. For the qualitative interview data, a grounded theory approach was used to develop a conceptual framework for how mindful principals do their work. Three themes emerged endemically from these interviews, the results of which are presented in a concept map at the end of this article.
An introduction to statistical flowgraph models for engineering systems
Authors: Collins David H , Warr Richard L , Huzurbazar Aparna V
Published: April 2013

Statistical flowgraph models have proven useful for analysis and modeling of complex systems viewed as multistate processes that lead to outcomes such as degraded operation or failure. This article provides an engineering-oriented introduction to statistical flowgraph models: system representation, setting up a flowgraph model, parameter estimation, solution of the model (using either a frequentist or Bayesian approach), and interpretation of model outputs. The method is illustrated with a model for piping reliability in a nuclear power plant, and compared with alternative solution methods.
A systematic review of rehabilitation protocols following surgical repair of the extensor pollicis longus
Authors: Wood Thomas J , Sameem Mojib , Farrokhyar Forough , Strumas Nick
Published: April 2013

Introduction

The goal of this systematic review was to determine which rehabilitation protocol (static, dynamic or early active) yields the best outcomes following repair of the extensor pollicis longus (EPL) tendon in the following domains: total active motion (TAM), grip strength and range of motion.

Methods

A comprehensive and systematic literature search was run. The retrieved abstracts and titles were screened by two independent reviewers. Rehabilitation protocols were classified as static, dynamic or early active. Methodological quality of included randomized controlled trials and cohort studies were assessed using the SIGN50 scale.

Results

Fifteen articles were included in the final analysis ( κ = 0.8). From this total, five studies employed static splinting, 12 dynamic splinting and two early active splinting. Static splinting yielded ‘excellent’/‘good’ results ranging from 50% (minimum) to 60% (maximum) on the TAM classification system and a weighted mean TAM of 73.0 ± 24.0° (range 58.75–85°). Dynamic splinting studies demonstrated ‘excellent’/‘good’ results ranging from 64.4% (minimum) to 98% (maximum) and a weighted mean TAM of 111.2 ± 11.7° (range 89–134°) ( P < 0.001 and mean difference of 38.2 (95% confidence interval: 32.2–44.2). In one study, early active motion resulted in 83% of patients having ‘excellent’/‘good’ ratings.

Discussion

The available level II–IV evidence suggests better outcomes when using dynamic splinting over static splinting for rehabilitation of the EPL tendon repair. Further evidence is required to clinically confirm the differences between early active and dynamic rehabilitation protocols.
Modeling OCB for Hotels
Authors: Ma Emily , Qu Hailin , Wilson Marie , Eastman Ken
Published: April 2013

Most research examining organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) has focused on employees’ efforts that benefit the organization or the individuals’ coworkers. A third dimension that is critical for the hospitality industry is behavior above and beyond the specific job description that is directed at customers. While most OCB studies have considered what behaviors are essential to corporate citizenship, but specific behaviors might be culturally bound. To avoid cultural issues, a more effective approach is to analyze the targets of citizenship behavior, that is, the organization, coworkers, and customers. A study of 240 hotel workers in China found support for a three-leg model of OCB, combining behavior aimed at these targets: at the organization itself, at coworkers, and at customers. Citizenship behavior aimed at the organization includes such activities as promoting a hotel’s products and making favorable comments about the property outside of work. Citizenship behavior in support of coworkers includes assisting them as needed and taking time to listen to coworkers’ concerns. Customer-focused OCB includes such activities as maintaining a positive attitude at work and performing duties carefully and accurately. Although this study did not expressly measure the results of such actions, previous work has shown increases in guest satisfaction and company revenue when OCB activities are high.
Case Discussion
Authors: Friedman Susan M. , Clark Nathan , Nicholas Joseph A. , Bukata Susan V.
Published: April 2013

This case presents a discussion of a frail 98-year-old woman in hospice care, with a history of dementia, previous hip fracture, and anemia, who is admitted with a left intertrochanteric fracture. Care is coordinated and expedited by an interdisciplinary team to optimize her outcome, in the context of her goals of care.
Coping with Racial Discrimination
Authors: Miller Byron , Rote Sunshine M. , Keith Verna M.
Published: April 2013

Research demonstrates that the mental health of African Americans is negatively affected by discrimination, but few studies have investigated the effects of racial discrimination specifically and whether these effects vary by poverty and education levels. Using a sample of 3,372 African Americans from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL), we find a positive relationship between racial discrimination and depressive symptoms, with both lifetime and daily racial discrimination being more salient for depressive symptoms among impoverished African Americans than those living above 200% of the poverty line. Evaluating mediated moderation models, we also find that the conditional effects of socioeconomic status are mediated by poor African Americans’ having fewer psychosocial resources. Namely, lower levels of mastery are influential in accounting for poor African Americans’ greater vulnerability to both daily and lifetime discrimination. The findings highlight the importance of examining specific reasons for discrimination as well as mediated moderation in future research.
Women Play Sport, But Not on TV
Authors: Cooky Cheryl , Messner Michael A. , Hextrum Robin H.
Published: April 2013

One of the long-standing trends in research on gender in sports media is the lack of coverage of women’s sport and the lack of respectful, serious coverage of women’s sport. In this article, we critically interrogate the assumption that the media simply provide fans with what they “want to see” (i.e., men’s sports). Using quantitative and qualitative analysis, we examine 6 weeks of the televised news media coverage on the local news affiliates in Los Angeles (KABC, KNBC, and KCBS) and on a nationally broadcast sports news and highlight show, ESPN’s SportsCenter. Part of an ongoing longitudinal study, the findings demonstrate that the coverage of women’s sport is the lowest ever. We argue that the amount of coverage of women’s sports and the quality of that coverage illustrates the ways in which the news media build audiences for men’s sport while silencing and marginalizing women’s sport. Moreover, the overall lack of coverage of women’s sport, despite the tremendous increased participation of girls and women in sport at the high school, collegiate, and professional level, conveys a message to audiences that sport continues to be by, for, and about men.
Diagnostic evaluation of paediatric pulmonary hypertension in current clinical practice
Authors: Beghetti Maurice , Berger Rolf M.F. , Schulze-Neick Ingram , Day Ronald W. , Pulido Tomás , Feinstein Jeffrey , Barst Robyn J. , Humpl Tilman
Published: April 2013

Current paediatric pulmonary hypertension (PH) diagnostic algorithms include some testing specifically for paediatrics, but it is unclear if this is used in clinical practice. We describe the current diagnostic workup of the TOPP (Tracking Outcomes and Practice in Paediatric Pulmonary hypertension) registry for suspected PH.

We investigated 456 patients enrolled until February 2010. The majority had ECGs (94%), echocardiograms (96%) and/or chest radiographs (89%) performed and these were the noninvasive tests most frequently used for evaluation of suspected PH. No patient had all three tests considered normal, suggesting the potential for the combined use to rule out PH.

For evaluation of complications associated with heart catheterisation (HC) we analysed a total of 908 HCs reported until February 2012. Of these, 554 were at diagnosis and 354 in follow-up. Complications were reported in 5.9% with five deaths considered related to HC, suggesting a higher rate of HC complications compared to adult studies. However, current recommendations support HC in paediatric PH. A proper application of the risk/benefit ratio for HC requires further data. Most children did not undergo the diagnostic workup currently recommended for adults, which highlights either incomplete awareness of current guidelines and/or challenges their appropriateness for children.
COPD prognosis in relation to diagnostic criteria for airflow obstruction in smokers
Authors: Akkermans Reinier P. , Biermans Marion , Robberts Bas , ter Riet Gerben , Jacobs Annelies , van Weel Chris , Wensing Michel , Schermer Tjard
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to establish which cut-off point for the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio (i.e.fixed 0.70 or lower limit of normal (LLN) cut-off point) best predicts accelerated lung function decline and exacerbations in middle-aged smokers.

We performed secondary analyses on the Lung Health Study dataset. 4045 smokers aged 35–60 years with mild-to-moderate obstructive pulmonary disease were subdivided into categories based on presence or absence of obstruction according to both FEV1/FVC cut-off points. Post-bronchodilator FEV1decline served as the primary outcome to compare subjects between the categories.

583 (14.4%) subjects were nonobstructed and 3230 (79.8%) subjects were obstructed according to both FEV1/FVC cut-off points. 173 (4.3%) subjects were obstructed according to the fixed cut-off point, but not according to the LLN cut-off point (“discordant” subjects). Mean±sepost-bronchodilator FEV1decline was 41.8±2.0 mL·year−1in nonobstructed subjects, 43.8±3.8 mL·year−1in discordant subjects and 53.5±0.9 mL·year−1in obstructed subjects (p<0.001).

Our study showed that FEV1decline in subjects deemed obstructed according to a fixed criterion (FEV1/FVC <0.70), but non-obstructed by a sex- and age-specific criterion (LLN) closely resembles FEV1decline in subjects designated as non-obstructed by both criteria. Sex and age should be taken into account when assessing airflow obstruction in middle-aged smokers.
Social consequences of sleep disordered breathing on patients and their partners: a controlled national study
Authors: Jennum Poul , Ibsen Rikke , Kjellberg Jakob
Published: April 2013

We aimed to evaluate the total costs to patients and their partners of sleep apnoea and obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) and their treatment, as this is poorly described in families.

Using data from the Danish National Patient Registry and other public databases, all patients and their partners with a diagnosis of sleep apnoea (n=30 278) or OHS (n=1562) were included. They were compared with age-, sex- and community location-matched citizens at a ratio 1:4 (120 506 and 6241 control subjects, respectively). Direct and indirect costs were evaluated for patients and their partners.

Sleep apnoea and OHS patients and their partners had higher rates of health-related contact, medication use and unemployment, and lower income levels. Excess yearly direct net health and foregone earnings (indirect costs) were €2174 and €7981 prior to diagnosis, and €3988 and €12 022 after diagnosis for sleep apnoea and OHS, respectively. The comparable annual mean excess health-related costs for spouses were €1965 and €2862 before diagnosis, and €2307 and €3079 after diagnosis, for sleep apnoea and OHS patients, respectively. These socioeconomic consequences were present up to 12 years before first diagnosis, and increased as the disease advanced.

Sleep-disordered breathing has major socioeconomic consequences for patients and their spouses years before and after diagnosis.
Expression of a novel mRNA transcript for human microsomal epoxide hydrolase (EPHX1) is regulated by short open reading frames within its 5′-untranslated region
Authors: Nguyen Hong Loan , Yang Xi , Omiecinski Curtis J.
Published: April 2013

Microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH,EPHX1) is a critical xenobiotic-metabolizing enzyme, catalyzing both detoxification and bioactivation reactions that direct the disposition of chemical epoxides, including the carcinogenic metabolites of several polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Recently, we discovered that a previously unrecognized and primate-specificEPHX1transcript, termed E1-b, was actually the predominant driver ofEPHX1expression in all human tissues. In this study, we identify another humanEPHX1transcript, designated as E1-b′. Unusually, both the E1-b and E1-b′ mRNA transcripts are generated from the use of a far upstream gene promoter, localized ∼18.5 kb 5′-upstream of theEPHX1protein-coding region. Although expressed at comparatively lower levels than E1-b, the novel E1-b′ transcript is readily detected in all tissues examined, with highest levels maintained in human ovary. The E1-b′ mRNA possesses unusual functional features in its 5′-untranslated region, including a GC-rich leader sequence and two upstream AUGs that encode for short peptides of 26 and 17 amino acids in length, respectively. Results from in vitro transcription/translation assays and direct transfection in mammalian cells of either the E1-b′ transcript or the encoded peptides demonstrated that the E1-b′ upstream open reading frames (uORFs) are functional, with their presence markedly inhibiting the translation of EPHX1 protein, both incisand intransconfigurations. These unique uORF peptides exhibit no homology to any other known uORF sequences but likely function to mediate post-transcription regulation ofEPHX1and perhaps more broadly as translational regulators in human cells.
Micro-Raman Spectroscopic Characterization of a CR-39 Detector
Authors: Pereira Luiz Augusto Stuani , Sáenz Carlos Alberto Tello , Constantino Carlos José Leopoldo , Curvo Eduardo Augusto Campos , Dias Airton Natanael Coelho , Soares Cleber José , Guedes Sandro
Published: April 2013

Characterization by micro-Raman spectroscopy of polymeric materials used as nuclear track detectors reveals physico-chemical and morphological information on the material's molecular structure. In this work, the nuclear track detector poly(allyl diglycol carbonate), or Columbia Resin .39 (CR-39), was characterized according to the fluence of alpha particles produced by a 226Ra source and chemical etching time. Therefore, damage of the CR-39 chemical structure due to the alpha-particle interaction with the detector was analyzed at the molecular level. It was observed that the ionization and molecular excitation of the CR-39 after the irradiation process entail cleavage of chemical bonds and formation of latent track. In addition, after the chemical etching, there is also loss of polymer structure, leading to the decrease of the group density C-O-C (~888 cm−1), CH=CH (~960 cm−1), C-O (~1110 cm−1), C-O-C (~1240 cm−1), C-O (~1290 cm−1), C=O (~1741 cm−1), –CH2-(~2910 cm−1), and the main band –CH2-(~2950 cm−1). The analyses performed after irradiation and chemical etching led to a better understanding of the CR-39 molecular structure and better comprehension of the process of the formation of the track, which is related to chemical etching kinetics.
Determination of the Network Structure of Sensor Materials Prepared by Three Different Sol-Gel Routes Using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR)
Authors: Cappeletti Larissa B. , Moncada Edwin , Poisson Joel , Butler Ian S. , Santos João Henrique Z. Dos
Published: April 2013

Solid acid-base sensor materials were prepared by encapsulating three pH indicators (alizarin red, brilliant yellow, and acridine) within a silica matrix using a sol-gel approach through three different routes: (1) non-hydrolytic, (2) acid-catalyzed, and (3) base-catalyzed. Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopies were used to evaluate the silica indicator interactions. Because vibrational bands assigned to functional groups present in the indicator molecules were not detected, the main silica stretching mode vSi-o between approximately 1300 and 1000 cm−1 was used to detect the presence of our indicators within the silica matrix. The large band centered at 1100 cm−1 was deconvoluted into four components corresponding to the longitudinal optic and transversal optic modes of the silicon monoxide (SiO)4 and (SiO)6 siloxane rings. Using the component area of each mode, it was possible to calculate the percentage of each structure. Such percentages ranged from 49% to 70% (SiO)6 for the analyzed samples, within a confidence level of 95% ( p = 0.05). (The confidence limits were 53–62%.) These results could be related to the pH indicator content, indicating that the quantity of the encapsulated molecule affects the (SiO)6 percentage values. In addition, a comparison with the radius of gyration obtained by small angle X-ray scattering was done. These results indicate that the analyte accesses the receptor elements through the passages between the siloxane rings but not through the siloxane rings themselves.
Penetration of Light into Multiple Scattering Media: Model Calculations and Reflectance Experiments. Part II: The Radial Transfer
Authors: Oelkrug Dieter , Brun Manfred , Hubner Peter , Rebner Karsten , Boldrini Barbara , Kessler Rudolf
Published: April 2013

In continuation of our contribution to “The Axial Transfer” ( Appl. Spectr. 2012. 66(8): 934–943), this paper describes the distribution of localized incident radiation in multiple scattering layers of arbitrary thickness and analyzes the lateral intensity profiles of radiation leaving the sample from its illuminated and non-illuminated surfaces. The theoretical profiles are calculated with different approximations of the equation of transfer. We derive for both non-absorbing and absorbing layers simple analytical expressions and verify their accuracy and range of applicability by comparison with Monte Carlo simulations. Particular emphasis is given to the analysis of the radial absorption, an under-theorized and under-investigated feature that can help to identify weak or hidden absorbers. In addition, we contribute to the description of how the radial reflectance is affected by anisotropy or by error sources like multiple surface reflection for samples in glass cells or deflectance (sideway loss) of radiation in small samples. Finally, the theoretical results are compared with experimental data of radial reflectance for quasi non-absorbing and absorbing powder layers.
A New Approach to Investigate Thin Surface Layers of Polymers: Fatigue Analysis of Polycarbonate
Authors: Nagai Naoto , Nishiyama Itsuo , Shimada Hideo , Ito Hidemi , Endo Kazunaka
Published: April 2013

A new technique to investigate chemical structures of very thin surface (mesoscopic scale) layers of polar polymers is proposed. The chemical structures and conformations of ~100 nm-thick slabs that were obtained from a polymer surface were studied by infrared spectroscopy combined with a previously developed thin sample preparation system. The dielectric functions were calculated using oscillator models from reflection spectra of the slabs, which were cut with a diamond blade. The molecular movements caused by shear force perturbations after the cutting process (“flexed state”) were observed. The technique was applied to analyze the changes in the chemical structure of bisphenol A polycarbonate (BPAPC) throughout a bending cyclic fatigue test. Three characteristic stages of structural changes in the flexed state under the cyclic fatigue test were observed. Our technique has the potential to clarify the intrinsic structures of solid polymers such as the degree of entanglement and the tendency for order or disorder caused by the surrounding chain interaction.
Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) Evaluation Protocol for Nanometallic Surfaces
Authors: Guicheteau Jason A. , Farrell Mikella E. , Christesen Steven D. , Fountain Augustus W. , Pellegrino Paul M. , Emmons Erik D. , Tripathi Ashish , Wilcox Phillip , Emge Darren
Published: April 2013

We present the results of a three-year collaboration between the U.S. Army Edgewood Chemical Biological Center and the U.S. Army Research Laboratory-Aldelphi Laboratory Center on the evaluation of selected nanometallic surfaces developed for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) Science and Technology Fundamentals program. The primary role of the two Army labs was to develop the analytical and spectroscopic figures of merit to unambiguously compare the sensitivity and reproducibility of various SERS substrates submitted by the program participants. We present the design and implementation of an evaluation protocol for SERS active surfaces enabling an enhancement value calculation from which different substrates can be directly compared. This method was established to: (1) collect physical and spectral characterization data from the small number of substrates (performer supplied) typically encountered, and (2) account for the complex fabrication technique and varying nature of the substrate platforms encountered within this program.
Novel Method for Quantifying Molecular Orientation by Polarized Raman Spectroscopy: A Comparative Simulations Study
Authors: Richard-Lacroix Marie , Pellerin Christian
Published: April 2013

Polarized Raman spectroscopy is widely used to quantify the level of molecular orientation of various types of materials. By using a simplified procedure we call the depol (depolarization) constant (DC) method, since it assumes that the depolarization ratio is a constant. However, our ability to quantify orientation by using the DC method is often limited by the need for a completely isotropic sample showing the same chemical and phase composition as the oriented sample of interest to obtain information on the depolarization ratio. In this paper, we propose a new method for orientation quantification, the most probable distribution (MPD) method, based on the hypothesis that the population distribution is the most probable one. In contrast to the conventional DC procedure, this new method does not require knowledge of the depolarization ratio and eliminates the assumption that it does not evolve on orientation. Simulations show the wide applicability of the MPD method for large sections of the 〈 P2〉 〈 P4〉 diagram, especially for coordinates that are most likely to be observed in experimental conditions. They also highlight the significant inaccuracies produced by the conventional DC method due to depolarization ratio errors.
Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering: An Emerging Label-Free Detection and Identification Technique for Proteins
Authors: Culha Mustafa
Published: April 2013

The detection and identification of biologically important molecules has critical importance in several fields such as medicine, biotechnology, and pharmacology. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a powerful emerging vibrational spectroscopic technique that allows not only for the characterization, but also for the identification and detection of biomacromolecules in a very short time. In this review, efforts to utilize SERS for label-free protein detection and identification is summarized after a short introduction of proteins and the technique.
Vibrational Circular Dichroism (VCD) Chiral Assignment of Atropisomers: Application to γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Modulators Designed as Potential Anxiolytic Drugs
Authors: Pivonka Don E. , Wesolowski Steven S.
Published: April 2013

Atropisomers exist when axial chirality is present as a result of conformationally restricted rotation around a single bond. The interconversion rate of the individual atropisomers is critical to the assessment of chiral stability of a drug throughout scale-up, development, production, and storage as well as in vivo pharmacokinetics. We describe the application of vibrational circular dichroism spectroscopy coupled with quantum mechanics simulations to assign the absolute axial chirality and measure the racemization half-life of a series of potential anxiolytic drugs that act as γ-aminobutyric acid modulators.
High-Yield RNA-Extraction Method for Saliva
Authors: Pandit Pratibala , Cooper-White Justin , Punyadeera Chamindie
Published: April 2013

BACKGROUND

The use of salivary diagnostics is increasing because of its noninvasiveness, ease of sampling, and the relatively low risk of contracting infectious organisms. Saliva has been used as a biological fluid to identify and validate RNA targets in head and neck cancer patients. The goal of this study was to develop a robust, easy, and cost-effective method for isolating high yields of total RNA from saliva for downstream expression studies.

METHODS

Oral whole saliva (200 μL) was collected from healthy controls (n = 6) and from patients with head and neck cancer (n = 8). The method developed in-house used QIAzol lysis reagent (Qiagen) to extract RNA from saliva (both cell-free supernatants and cell pellets), followed by isopropyl alcohol precipitation, cDNA synthesis, and real-time PCR analyses for the genes encoding β-actin (“housekeeping” gene) and histatin (a salivary gland–specific gene).

RESULTS

The in-house QIAzol lysis reagent produced a high yield of total RNA (0.89–7.1 μg) from saliva (cell-free saliva and cell pellet) after DNase treatment. The ratio of the absorbance measured at 260 nm to that at 280 nm ranged from 1.6 to 1.9. The commercial kit produced a 10-fold lower RNA yield. Using our method with the QIAzol lysis reagent, we were also able to isolate RNA from archived saliva samples that had been stored without RNase inhibitors at −80 °C for >2 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Our in-house QIAzol method is robust, is simple, provides RNA at high yields, and can be implemented to allow saliva transcriptomic studies to be translated into a clinical setting.
Changes in granulosa cells' gene expression associated with increased oocyte competence in bovine
Authors: Nivet Anne-Laure , Vigneault Christian , Blondin Patrick , Sirard Marc-André
Published: April 2013

One of the challenges in mammalian reproduction is to understand the basic physiology of oocyte quality. It is believed that the follicle status is linked to developmental competence of the enclosed oocyte. To explore the link between follicles and competence in cows, previous research at our laboratory has developed an ovarian stimulation protocol that increases and then decreases oocyte quality according to the timing of oocyte recovery post-FSH withdrawal (coasting). Using this protocol, we have obtained the granulosa cells associated with oocytes of different qualities at selected times of coasting. Transcriptome analysis was done with Embryogene microarray slides and validation was performed by real-time PCR. Results show that the major changes in gene expression occurred from 20 to 44 h of coasting, when oocyte quality increases. Secondly, among upregulated genes (20–44 h), 25% were extracellular molecules, highlighting potential granulosa signaling cascades. Principal component analysis identified two patterns: one resembling the competence profile and another associated with follicle growth and atresia. Additionally, three major functional changes were identified: i) the end of follicle growth (BMPR1B,IGF2, andRELN), involving interactions with the extracellular matrix (TFPI2); angiogenesis (NRP1), including early hypoxia, and potentially oxidative stress (GFPT2,TF, andVNN1) and ii) apoptosis (KCNJ8) followed by iii) inflammation (ANKRD1). This unique window of analysis indicates a progressive hypoxia during coasting mixed with an increase in apoptosis and inflammation. Potential signaling pathways leading to competence have been identified and will require downstream testing. This preliminary analysis supports the potential role of the follicular differentiation in oocyte quality both during competence increase and decrease phases.
DNA Replication Checkpoint Signaling Depends on a Rad53–Dbf4 N-Terminal Interaction in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Chen Ying-Chou , Kenworthy Jessica , Gabrielse Carrie , Hänni Christine , Zegerman Philip , Weinreich Michael
Published: April 2013

Dbf4-dependent kinase (DDK) and cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) are essential to initiate DNA replication at individual origins. During replication stress, the S-phase checkpoint inhibits the DDK- and CDK-dependent activation of late replication origins. Rad53 kinase is a central effector of the replication checkpoint and both binds to and phosphorylates Dbf4 to prevent late-origin firing. The molecular basis for the Rad53–Dbf4 physical interaction is not clear but occurs through the Dbf4 N terminus. Here we found that both Rad53 FHA1 and FHA2 domains, which specifically recognize phospho-threonine (pT), interacted with Dbf4 through an N-terminal sequence and an adjacent BRCT domain. Purified Rad53 FHA1 domain (but not FHA2) bound to a pT Dbf4 peptide in vitro, suggesting a possible phospho-threonine-dependent interaction between FHA1 and Dbf4. The Dbf4–Rad53 interaction is governed by multiple contacts that are separable from the Cdc5- and Msa1-binding sites in the Dbf4 N terminus. Importantly, abrogation of the Rad53–Dbf4 physical interaction blocked Dbf4 phosphorylation and allowed late-origin firing during replication checkpoint activation. This indicated that Rad53 must stably bind to Dbf4 to regulate its activity.
Reactive Oxygen Species Homeostasis and Virulence of the Fungal PathogenCryptococcus neoformansRequires an Intact Proline Catabolism Pathway
Authors: Lee I Russel , Lui Edmund Y L , Chow Eve W L , Arras Samantha D M , Morrow Carl A , Fraser James A
Published: April 2013

Degradation of the multifunctional amino acid proline is associated with mitochondrial oxidative respiration. The two-step oxidation of proline is catalyzed by proline oxidase and Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate (P5C) dehydrogenase, which produce P5C and glutamate, respectively. In animal and plant cells, impairment of P5C dehydrogenase activity results in P5C-proline cycling when exogenous proline is supplied via the actions of proline oxidase and P5C reductase (the enzyme that converts P5C to proline). This proline is oxidized by the proline oxidase-FAD complex that delivers electrons to the electron transport chain and to O2, leading to mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction. Coupled activity of proline oxidase and P5C dehydrogenase is therefore important for maintaining ROS homeostasis. In the genome of the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans, there are two paralogs (PUT1 and PUT5) that encode proline oxidases and a single ortholog (PUT2) that encodes P5C dehydrogenase. Transcription of all three catabolic genes is inducible by the presence of proline. However, through the creation of deletion mutants, only Put5 and Put2 were found to be required for proline utilization. The put2Δ mutant also generates excessive mitochondrial superoxide when exposed to proline. Intracellular accumulation of ROS is a critical feature of cell death; consistent with this fact, the put2Δ mutant exhibits a slight, general growth defect. Furthermore, Put2 is required for optimal production of the major cryptococcal virulence factors. During murine infection, the put2Δ mutant was discovered to be avirulent; this is the first report highlighting the importance of P5C dehydrogenase in enabling pathogenesis of a microorganism.
Bulk Segregant Analysis of an Induced Floral Mutant Identifies aMIXTA-Like R2R3MYBControlling Nectar Guide Formation inMimulus lewisii
Authors: Yuan Yao-Wu , Sagawa Janelle M , Di Stilio Verónica S , Bradshaw H D
Published: April 2013

The genetic and developmental basis of many ecologically important floral traits (e.g., carotenoid pigmentation, corolla tube structure, nectar volume, pistil and stamen length) remains poorly understood. Here we analyze a chemically induced floral mutant of Mimulus lewisii through bulk segregant analysis and transgenic experiments and identify a MIXTA-like R2R3 MYB gene that controls nectar guide formation in M. lewisii flowers, which involves epidermal cell development and carotenoid pigmentation.
Hernias cerebrais intracranianas
Authors: Guidugli Neto João
Published: April 2013

O autor estuda as diferentes manifestações macroscópicas de deslocamento intracraniano de massa encefálica em 420 encéfalos. Em 23 destes havia lesão secundária do tronco cerebral. A hérnia temporal uni ou bilateral foi a alteração mais frequente no material, sendo a anóxia terminal provavelmente um dos fatores importantes no seu estabelecimento. Foi verificado decréscimo acentuado das lesões secundárias do tronco cerebral após os 60 anos de idade.
Estudio electrofisiologico en la neuropatia por Vincristina
Authors: Sanz Olga P. , Colombi A. , Somoza M. , Monteverde D.
Published: April 2013

Diez pacientes afectados por diversas patologías que requerían tratamiento crónico con Vincristina, fueron sometidos a estudios electrofisiológicos en los que se valoró: el número de unidades motoras (UM) funcionantes en los músculos de la eminencia tenar, los valores de los incrementos medios de UM, velocidad de conducción motora y su latencia residual en el nervio mediano, la velocidad de conducción sensitiva del mismo nervio y el estado de la transmisión neuromuscular. Los valores obtenidos fueron comparados con grupos controles. Los resultados mostraron disminución del número de UM; las UM remanentes presentaron amplitud reducida junto a otras cuyo tamaño no superaba el del grupo control, hecho que sugiere la incapacidad de lograr una reinervación adecuada. Las velocidades de conducción motora y sensitiva mostraron valores diminuídos, con mayor compromiso en los segmentos distales. Junto a estos datos se halló respuesta miasteniforme al estímulo repetitivo. Todos estos resultados permiten postular la existencia de un compromiso de la unidad motora, abarcando todos sus segmentos, en pacientes intoxicados con Vincristina.
Recuperação espontanea da função nas lesões do sistema nervoso central
Authors: Anghinah Abrão
Published: April 2013

É feita uma revisão dos mecanismos apontados como responsáveis pela recuperação espontânea da função em pacientes com lesões do sistema nervoso central. São referidas as teorias de reorganização espontânea do tecido nervoso e da função vicariante. É destacada a contribuição experimental das duas últimas décadas, particularmente a dos pesquisadores encabeçados por Windle & Guth, que demonstraram a possibilidade de regeneração no sistema nervoso central, bem como as de Lawrence & Kuypers, Brodal & Goldberger, que advogam a função vicariante como mecanismo provável da recuperação da função.
Interdisciplinaridade na construção dos conteúdos curriculares do curso médico
Authors: Machado Maria das Mercês Borém Correa , Batista Sylvia Helena Souza da Silva
Published: April 2013

O objetivo deste artigo é apreender, discutir e analisar as concepções sobre interdisciplinaridade de professores coordenadores e professores construtores de módulos do primeiro ao sétimo período do curso médico de uma instituição pública no norte do Estado de Minas Gerais. Com base em um referencial teórico-conceitual, procedeu-se a uma investigação que envolveu 47 professores, produzindo-se dados por meio de questionário e entrevista semiestruturada. Os resultados foram analisados pela técnica de análise de conteúdo. Em relação às concepções dos docentes construtores, apreendeu-se que a interdisciplinaridade se caracteriza pela intensidade das trocas e pela integração das disciplinas no cotidiano da prática pedagógica. Para os docentes coordenadores, a interdisciplinaridade apresenta uma relação com o trabalho em equipe e com o uso de metodologias ativas. Foram ressaltadas as dificuldades de uma prática interdisciplinar na perspectiva de ação colegiada, participativa e articulada. O trabalho analítico permitiu identificar que os professores compreendem o movimento interdisciplinar como fortalecedor da relação universidade/realidade, que, ao potencializar o diálogo e a interação entre setores diversos, favorece a busca pela educação permanente e superação da fragmentação.
Recepção audiovisual na educação médica: leituras de um vídeo educativo de psicologia médica por estudantes de medicina
Authors: Pastor Junior Américo de Araujo , Rezende Luiz Augusto de Coimbra , Bastos Wagner Gonçalves
Published: April 2013

Este estudo analisa a produção e a recepção do vídeo educativo Lição de Anatomia, a fim de compreender que sentidos são produzidos por alunos da disciplina de Psicologia Médica. Analisou-se o vídeo, entrevistaram-se seus produtores e foi feita uma exibição experimental, seguida de um grupo de discussão com estudantes de Medicina. O estudo da produção mostrou que o vídeo foi endereçado principalmente a estudantes de Medicina. Esperava-se provocar uma discussão e chamar a atenção para a formação médica como produtora de traumas e angústias. O estudo da recepção do vídeo mostrou que os espectadores estiveram, todo o tempo, conscientes da manipulação dos recursos estéticos do vídeo, não consideraram a narrativa crível e adotaram um posicionamento ideológico negociado, embora tenham compreendido e discutido alguns temas propostos pelo vídeo.
The impact of government income transfers on the Brazilian job market
Authors: Marinho Emerson , Mendes Sérgio
Published: April 2013

This paper intends to analyze the impact of transferences over the formal and informal labor supply from the family heads. For the analyze of the effects in scope of the entrance decisions in job market it was estimated a multinomial logit, while in the scope of the working time it was used a variation of the method of Durbin and McFadden (1984) for selection bias correction. It has verified that transferences have positive effect over the probabilities that the individual doesn't work and does informally work. However, this last one seems to be related to a substitution effect, once it has been observed a parallel negative effect over the probability to work on the formal sector. It has been obtained yet that the benefits negatively impacts on the offered hours by the family heads whether in the formal or non-formal sector, effect that has happened to be verified on the hours offering in formal sector of all individuals. On the other hand, as we consider the hours of working of those who are engaged in informal sector, it has obtained that income transferences perform not as a discourage issue but as a magnifier factor of worked hours.
Historiografia econômica do dízimo agrário na Ibero-América: os casos do Brasil e Nova Espanha, século XVIII
Authors: Carrara Angelo Alves , Santiró Ernest Sánchez
Published: April 2013

O propósito deste artigo é duplo. De um lado, apresentar uma visão global sobre a evolução historiográfica do dízimo na Nova Espanha e no Brasil, incidindo especialmente nos aspectos econômicos. Por outro lado, apontar em que medida os dados decimais do século XVIII em ambos os espaços permitem responder a questões relativas ao fenômeno do crescimento da produção agrícola em uma e outra região.
The influence of body composition assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry on functional capacity of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Ruas Gualberto , Ribeiro Gabriel Gomes , Naves Juliane Moreira , Jamami Mauricio
Published: April 2013

INTRODUCTION: The individual with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can experience a significant reduction of body composition, peripheral muscle dysfunction, resulting in a negative influence on functional capacity. OBJECTIVES: To analyze the influence of body composition assessed by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry on functional capacity of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eleven male patients with COPD (COPDG), seven presenting moderate obstruction and four severe, and 11 sedentary male subjects (CG) were evaluated by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry to assess their body composition. All subjects also performed the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and Step Test (6MST) to assess their functional capacity. RESULTS: No significant differences were found between groups for anthropometric data such as age, weight, height and body mass index (BMI). However, the COPDG presented Forced Vital Capacity (FVC), Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC ratio, Maximal Voluntary Ventilation (MVV), Walked Distance (WD) and Number of Steps (NS) significantly lower than the CG (p < 0.05, Student's t-test). The Body Bone Mass (BBM), BBM%, Lean Mass (LM), LM%, and Right Lower Limb (RLL) and Left Lower Limb (LLL) were significantly lower in the COPDG when compared with the CG, presenting statistically significant positive correlations with 6MWT's WD and 6MST's NS (p < 0.05, Pearson's test). CONCLUSION: We conclude that body composition is an important prognostic factor for patients with COPD, which reinforces the importance of assessing body composition by dual-energy absorptiometry since it has demonstrated with satisfactory accuracy in clinical practice. Moreover, it is a useful parameter for evaluation and reassessment in pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
Utilização da informação visual no controle postural de crianças com paralisia cerebral
Authors: Trindade Karyna Giselle Rodrigues , Celestino Melissa Leandro , Barela Ana Maria Forti
Published: April 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: As limitações impostas pela paralisia cerebral (PC) levam à persistência de distúrbios dos movimentos e da postura. Sendo assim, o controle postural tem um papel importante, pois a capacidade de manter a orientação postural é fundamental para realização das atividades de vida diária. OBJETIVOS: Investigar a utilização da informação visual no controle postural de crianças com PC e de crianças neurologicamente normais (NN). MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foram avaliadas nove crianças com PC diplégica e nove crianças NN de ambos os sexos, entre 6 e 12 anos de idade. Todas as crianças permaneceram em pé e paradas dentro de uma sala móvel nas seguintes condições experimentais: sem movimento da sala com olhos abertos e com olhos fechados e com movimento da sala nas frequências de 0,2 e 0,5 Hz. O registro dos movimentos da sala e das crianças foi realizado por marcadores ativos afixados entre as escápulas das crianças e na parede da sala, respectivamente, e do sistema OPTOTRAK. RESULTADOS: As crianças com PC oscilaram mais em relação às crianças NN, e o movimento da sala influenciou a oscilação corporal de todas as crianças de maneira similar, sendo que todas elas foram influenciadas pela frequência em que a sala foi movimentada. CONCLUSÃO: Crianças com PC e NN são influenciadas pela manipulação da informação visual durante a manutenção da postura ereta e quieta e pela frequência em que o estímulo visual é apresentado.
Instrumentos de avaliação da postura dinâmica: aplicabilidade ao ambiente escolar
Authors: Noll Matias , Candotti Cláudia Tarragô , Vieira Adriane
Published: April 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: Para que a avaliação da postura dinâmica seja efetivada é necessário, primeiramente, conhecer os diversos instrumentos, disponíveis e validados na literatura, apropriados para esse fim. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste artigo de revisão sistemática foi descrever, sintetizar e analisar criticamente os instrumentos encontrados na literatura que objetivem avaliar a postura dinâmica, tanto em adultos quanto em escolares, e refletir sobre a possibilidade de utilização desses métodos no ambiente escolar. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Foi realizada uma busca sistemática de artigos em bases de dados (Scopus, ScienceDirect, PubMed, SciELO) publicados a partir da década de 1980 e no Banco de Teses e Dissertações da Capes. As palavras-chave utilizadas na busca pelos artigos foram back, spine, back injuries, school, back school, postural hygiene program, education, child, student, posture, em combinação com as palavras-chave evaluation, assessment, measurement, e os respectivos termos em português. Os instrumentos propostos deveriam preencher os seguintes critérios: (a) avaliar a postura corporal durante a realização de atividades da vida diária (AVDs); (b) utilizar critérios pré-definidos de avaliação da postura dinâmica; e (c) avaliar a postura a partir de observação, direta ou a partir de filmagem. RESULTADOS: Foram identificados oito artigos originais que apresentam instrumentos de avaliação da postura dinâmica, avaliando a execução de AVDs a partir de critérios biomecânicos pré-definidos por escalas numéricas; destes, apenas quatro instrumentos foram elaborados com o propósito de avaliar a execução de AVDs de escolares. CONSIDERAÇÕES FINAIS: Em geral, os instrumentos apresentam algumas limitações metodológicas, embora sejam de fácil aplicabilidade.
Crescimento vegetativo, produção de fitomassa e de óleo essencial de Melissa officinalis L. sob diferentes lâminas de irrigação
Authors: Meira Messulan Rodrigues , Melo Marco Túlio Pinheiro de , Martins Ernane Ronie , Pinto Mateus Junior da Silva , Santana Cinthya Souza
Published: April 2013

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a produção de fitomassa e óleo essencial da M. officinalis L. com lâminas de irrigação no Norte de Minas Gerais como medidas de uso racional da água. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente ao acaso em parcelas subdivididas no tempo, com seis tratamentos definidos pelas lâminas de irrigação (T1=0,50xET0; T2=0,75xET0; T3=1,0xET0; T4=1,25xET0; T5=1,5xET0 e T6=1,75xETO), e quatro repetições. O estudo foi conduzido em microlisímetros. Com base na análise de regressão, observou-se que o crescimento e a produção de fitomassa foram influenciados pela disponibilidade hídrica. Maior produção e teor de óleo essencial foram conseguidos na menor lâmina e a época de avaliação não influenciou na aplicação das lâminas.