bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recombinant expression and functional analysis of proteases from Streptococcus pneumoniae, Bacillus anthracis, and Yersinia pestis
Authors: Kwon Keehwan , Hasseman Jeremy , Latham Saeeda , Grose Carissa , Do Yu , Fleischmann Robert D , Pieper Rembert , Peterson Scott N
Published: May 2011

Background

Uncharacterized proteases naturally expressed by bacterial pathogens represents important topic in infectious disease research, because these enzymes may have critical roles in pathogenicity and cell physiology. It has been observed that cloning, expression and purification of proteases often fail due to their catalytic functions which, in turn, cause toxicity in the E. coli heterologous host.

Results

In order to address this problem systematically, a modified pipeline of our high-throughput protein expression and purification platform was developed. This included the use of a specific E. coli strain, BL21(DE3) pLysS to tightly control the expression of recombinant proteins and various expression vectors encoding fusion proteins to enhance recombinant protein solubility. Proteases fused to large fusion protein domains, maltosebinding protein (MBP), SP-MBP which contains signal peptide at the N-terminus of MBP, disulfide oxidoreductase (DsbA) and Glutathione S-transferase (GST) improved expression and solubility of proteases. Overall, 86.1% of selected protease genes including hypothetical proteins were expressed and purified using a combination of five different expression vectors. To detect novel proteolytic activities, zymography and fluorescence-based assays were performed and the protease activities of more than 46% of purified proteases and 40% of hypothetical proteins that were predicted to be proteases were confirmed.

Conclusions

Multiple expression vectors, employing distinct fusion tags in a high throughput pipeline increased overall success rates in expression, solubility and purification of proteases. The combinatorial functional analysis of the purified proteases using fluorescence assays and zymography confirmed their function.
Stanniocalcin 2 alters PERK signalling and reduces cellular injury during cerulein induced pancreatitis in mice
Authors: Fazio Elena N , DiMattia Gabriel E , Chadi Sami A , Kernohan Kristin D , Pin Christopher L
Published: May 2011

Background

Stanniocalcin 2 (STC2) is a secreted protein activated by (PKR)-like Endoplasmic Reticulum Kinase (PERK) signalling under conditions of ER stress in vitro. Over-expression of STC2 in mice leads to a growth-restricted phenotype; however, the physiological function for STC2 has remained elusive. Given the relationship of STC2 to PERK signalling, the objective of this study was to examine the role of STC2 in PERK signalling in vivo.

Results

Since PERK signalling has both physiological and pathological roles in the pancreas, STC2 expression was assessed in mouse pancreata before and after induction of injury using a cerulein-induced pancreatitis (CIP) model. Increased Stc2 expression was identified within four hours of initiating pancreatic injury and correlated to increased activation of PERK signalling. To determine the effect of STC2 over-expression on PERK, mice systemically expressing human STC2 (STC2

Tg
) were examined. STC2

Tg
pancreatic tissue exhibited normal pancreatic morphology, but altered activation of PERK signalling, including increases in Activating Transcription Factor (ATF) 4 accumulation and autophagy. Upon induction of pancreatic injury, STC2

Tg
mice exhibited limited increases in circulating amylase levels and increased maintenance of cellular junctions.

Conclusions

This study links STC2 to the pathological activation of PERK in vivo, and suggests involvement of STC2 in responding to pancreatic acinar cell injury.
Efficient induction of CD25- iTreg by co-immunization requires strongly antigenic epitopes for T cells
Authors: Geng Shuang , Yu Yang , Kang Youmin , Pavlakis George , Jin Huali , Li Jinyao , Hu Yanxin , Hu Weibin , Wang Shuang , Wang Bin
Published: May 2011

Background

We previously showed that co-immunization with a protein antigen and a DNA vaccine coding for the same antigen induces CD40low IL-10high tolerogenic DCs, which in turn stimulates the expansion of antigen-specific CD4+CD25-Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (CD25- iTreg). However, it was unclear how to choose the antigen sequence to maximize tolerogenic antigen presentation and, consequently, CD25- iTreg induction.

Results

In the present study, we demonstrated the requirement of highly antigenic epitopes for CD25- iTreg induction. Firstly, we showed that the induction of CD25- iTreg by tolerogenic DC can be blocked by anti-MHC-II antibody. Next, both the number and the suppressive activity of CD25- iTreg correlated positively with the overt antigenicity of an epitope to activate T cells. Finally, in a mouse model of dermatitis, highly antigenic epitopes derived from a flea allergen not only induced more CD25- iTreg, but also more effectively prevented allergenic reaction to the allergen than did weakly antigenic epitopes.

Conclusions

Our data thus indicate that efficient induction of CD25- iTreg requires highly antigenic peptide epitopes. This finding suggests that highly antigenic epitopes should be used for efficient induction of CD25- iTreg for clinical applications such as flea allergic dermatitis.
Estimation of affinities of ligands in mixtures via magnetic recovery of target-ligand complexes and chromatographic analyses: chemometrics and an experimental model
Authors: Yang Xiaolan , Xie Yanling , Pu Jun , Zhao Hua , Liao Juan , Yuan Yonghua , Zhu Sha , Long Gaobo , Zhang Chun , Yuan Huidong , Chen Yiwen , Liao Fei
Published: May 2011

Background

The combinatorial library strategy of using multiple candidate ligands in mixtures as library members is ideal in terms of cost and efficiency, but needs special screening methods to estimate the affinities of candidate ligands in such mixtures. Herein, a new method to screen candidate ligands present in unknown molar quantities in mixtures was investigated.

Results

The proposed method involves preparing a processed-mixture-for-screening (PMFS) with each mixture sample and an exogenous reference ligand, initiating competitive binding among ligands from the PMFS to a target immobilized on magnetic particles, recovering target-ligand complexes in equilibrium by magnetic force, extracting and concentrating bound ligands, and analyzing ligands in the PMFS and the concentrated extract by chromatography. The relative affinity of each candidate ligand to its reference ligand is estimated via an approximation equation assuming (a) the candidate ligand and its reference ligand bind to the same site(s) on the target, (b) their chromatographic peak areas are over five times their intercepts of linear response but within their linear ranges, (c) their binding ratios are below 10%. These prerequisites are met by optimizing primarily the quantity of the target used and the PMFS composition ratio.

The new method was tested using the competitive binding of biotin derivatives from mixtures to streptavidin immobilized on magnetic particles as a model. Each mixture sample containing a limited number of candidate biotin derivatives with moderate differences in their molar quantities were prepared via parallel-combinatorial-synthesis (PCS) without purification, or via the pooling of individual compounds. Some purified biotin derivatives were used as reference ligands. This method showed resistance to variations in chromatographic quantification sensitivity and concentration ratios; optimized conditions to validate the approximation equation could be applied to different mixture samples. Relative affinities of candidate biotin derivatives with unknown molar quantities in each mixture sample were consistent with those estimated by a homogenous method using their purified counterparts as samples.

Conclusions

This new method is robust and effective for each mixture possessing a limited number of candidate ligands whose molar quantities have moderate differences, and its integration with PCS has promise to routinely practice the mixture-based library strategy.
Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Protects Kidneys against Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury through Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Reaction
Authors: Chen Yen-Ta , Sun Cheuk-Kwan , Lin Yu-Chun , Chang Li-Teh , Chen Yung-Lung , Tsai Tzu-Hsien , Chung Sheng-Ying , Chua Sarah , Kao Ying-Hsien , Yen Chia-Hung , Shao Pei-Lin , Chang Kuan-Cheng , Leu Steve , Yip Hon-Kan
Published: May 2011

Background

Reactive oxygen species are important mediators exerting toxic effects on various organs during ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury. We hypothesized that adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) protect the kidney against oxidative stress and inflammatory stimuli in rat during renal IR injury.

Methods

Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (n = 24) were equally randomized into group 1 (sham control), group 2 (IR plus culture medium only), and group 3 (IR plus immediate intra-renal administration of 1.0 × 106 autologous ADMSCs, followed by intravenous ADMSCs at 6 h and 24 h after IR). The duration of ischemia was 1 h, followed by 72 hours of reperfusion before the animals were sacrificed.

Results

Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels and the degree of histological abnormalities were markedly lower in group 3 than in group 2 (all p < 0.03). The mRNA expressions of inflammatory, oxidative stress, and apoptotic biomarkers were lower, whereas the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-apoptotic biomarkers were higher in group 3 than in group 2 (all p < 0.03). Immunofluorescent staining showed a higher number of CD31+, von Willebrand Factor+, and heme oxygenase (HO)-1+ cells in group 3 than in group 2 (all p < 0.05). Western blot showed notably higher NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 and HO-1 activities, two indicators of anti-oxidative capacity, in group 3 than those in group 2 (all p < 0.04). Immunohistochemical staining showed higher glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities in group 3 than in group 2 (all p < 0.02)

Conclusion

ADMSC therapy minimized kidney damage after IR injury through suppressing oxidative stress and inflammatory response.
Metabolic syndrome: definitions and controversies
Authors: Kassi Eva , Pervanidou Panagiota , Kaltsas Gregory , Chrousos George
Published: May 2011

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex disorder defined by a cluster of interconnected factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular atherosclerotic diseases and diabetes mellitus type 2. Currently, several different definitions of MetS exist, causing substantial confusion as to whether they identify the same individuals or represent a surrogate of risk factors. Recently, a number of other factors besides those traditionally used to define MetS that are also linked to the syndrome have been identified. In this review, we critically consider existing definitions and evolving information, and conclude that there is still a need to develop uniform criteria to define MetS, so as to enable comparisons between different studies and to better identify patients at risk. As the application of the MetS model has not been fully validated in children and adolescents as yet, and because of its alarmingly increasing prevalence in this population, we suggest that diagnosis, prevention and treatment in this age group should better focus on established risk factors rather than the diagnosis of MetS.
Positional effect of phosphorylation sites 266 and 267 in the cytoplasmic domain of the E2 protein of hepatitis C virus 3a genotype: Interferon Resistance analysis via Sequence Alignment
Authors: Rafique Shazia , Idrees Muhammad , Ilyas Muhammad , Hussain Abrar , Ali Muhammad , Ali Liaqat , Butt Sadia , Afzal Samia , Ur Rehman Irshad , Saleem Sana
Published: May 2011

Background

Interferon is well thought-out as the key defence against all infections including HCV. The only treatment for HCV infection is pegylated interferon alpha (IFN-α) but unluckily more than half of the infected individuals do not act in response to the cure and become chronic HCV carriers. The mechanism how HCV induce interferon resistance is still elusive. It is recently reported that HCV envelope protein 2 interacts with PKR which is the interferon-inducible protein kinase and which in turn blocks the activity of its target molecule called eukaryotic initiation factor elF2. Sequence analysis of Envelope protein reveals it contains a domain homologous to phosphorylation sites of PKR andthe translation initiation factor eIF2alpha. Envelope protein competes for phosphorylation with PKR. Inhibition of kinase activity of PKR is postulated as a mechanism of to interferon (IFN) resistance.

Results

Present study involves the insilico investigation of possible role of potential phosphorylation in envelope 2 protein of 3a genotype in interferon resistance. Envelope protein coding genes were isolated from local HCV isolates, cloned and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was done and tertiary structure of envelope gene was predicted. Visualization of phosphorylation in tertiary structure reveals that residue 266 and 267 of envelope gene 2 are surface exposed and their phosphorylation may compete with the phosphorylation of PKR protein and possibly involved in mediating Interferon Resistance.

Conclusion

A hybrid in-silico and wet laboratory approach of motif prediction, evolutionary and structural analysis has pointed out serine 266 and 267 of the HCV E2 gene as a hopeful claimant for the serine phosphorylation. Recognition of these nucleotide variations may assist to propose genotype precise therapy to avoid and resolve HCV infections.
The effects of linkage disequilibrium in large scale SNP datasets for MDR
Authors: Grady Benjamin J , Torstenson Eric S , Ritchie Marylyn D
Published: May 2011

Background

In the analysis of large-scale genomic datasets, an important consideration is the power of analytical methods to identify accurate predictive models of disease. When trying to assess sensitivity from such analytical methods, a confounding factor up to this point has been the presence of linkage disequilibrium (LD). In this study, we examined the effect of LD on the sensitivity of the Multifactor Dimensionality Reduction (MDR) software package.

Results

Four relative amounts of LD were simulated in multiple one- and two-locus scenarios for which the position of the functional SNP(s) within LD blocks varied. Simulated data was analyzed with MDR to determine the sensitivity of the method in different contexts, where the sensitivity of the method was gauged as the number of times out of 100 that the method identifies the correct one- or two-locus model as the best overall model. As the amount of LD increases, the sensitivity of MDR to detect the correct functional SNP drops but the sensitivity to detect the disease signal and find an indirect association increases.

Conclusions

Higher levels of LD begin to confound the MDR algorithm and lead to a drop in sensitivity with respect to the identification of a direct association; it does not, however, affect the ability to detect indirect association. Careful examination of the solution models generated by MDR reveals that MDR can identify loci in the correct LD block; though it is not always the functional SNP. As such, the results of MDR analysis in datasets with LD should be carefully examined to consider the underlying LD structure of the dataset.
Somatic and germline expression of piwi during development and regeneration in the marine polychaete annelid Capitella teleta
Authors: Giani Vincent C , Yamaguchi Emi , Boyle Michael J , Seaver Elaine C
Published: May 2011

Background

Stem cells have a critical role during adult growth and regeneration. Germline stem cells are specialized stem cells that produce gametes during sexual reproduction. Capitella teleta (formerly Capitella sp. I) is a polychaete annelid that reproduces sexually, exhibits adult growth and regeneration, and thus, is a good model to study the relationship between somatic and germline stem cells.

Results

We characterize expression of the two C. teleta orthologs of piwi, genes with roles in germline development in diverse organisms. Ct-piwi1 and Ct-piwi2 are expressed throughout the life cycle in a dynamic pattern that includes both somatic and germline cells, and show nearly identical expression patterns at all stages examined. Both genes are broadly expressed during embryonic and larval development, gradually becoming restricted to putative primordial germ cells (PGCs) and the posterior growth zone. In juveniles, Ct-piwi1 is expressed in the presumptive gonads, and in reproductive adults, it is detected in gonads and the posterior growth zone. In addition, Ct-piwi1 is expressed in a population of putative PGCs that persist in sexually mature adults, likely in a stem cell niche. Ct-piwi1 is expressed in regenerating tissue, and once segments differentiate, it becomes most prominent in the posterior growth zone and immature oocytes in regenerating ovaries of regenerating segments.

Conclusions

In C. teleta, piwi genes may have retained an ancestral role as genetic regulators of both somatic and germline stem cells. It is likely that piwi genes, and associated stem cell co-regulators, became restricted to the germline in some taxa during the course of evolution.
Interleukin-12 treatment down-regulates STAT4 and induces apoptosis with increasing ROS production in human natural killer cells
Authors: Huang Yong , Lei YingFeng , Zhang Hai , Zhang Mingjie , Dayton Andrew
Published: May 2011

NK cells are prominent mediators of the immunomodulating and antiangiogenic activity of IL-12. However, the effect of prolonged IL-12 treatment on NK cells is unclear. In this study, we observed that IL-12 initially activates NK cells, but prolonged IL-12 treatment specifically down-regulates IL-12 signaling and induces NK cell apoptosis associated with a significant reduction in cytolytic activity and IFN-γ production in response to further IL-12 stimulation. Further results demonstrate that prolonged IL-12 stimulation of NK cells specifically decreases the level of activated STAT4 protein, a critical IL-12 signaling component, through decreasing STAT4 mRNA and protein levels rather than inducing STAT4 protein degradation. IL-12 treatment induces NK cell activation as well as levels of ROS, but prolonged IL-12 treatment causes ROS accumulation, which in turn, results in the loss of Δψm, the release of cytochrome c, and the activation of caspase-3, resulting in NK cell apoptosis. These findings provide new insights into IL-12 regulation in human NK cells, where IL-12 initially promotes NK cell activation but subsequently limits this response through a negative-feedback mechanism.
Estimation of depth to the bottom of magnetic sources by a modified centroid method for fractal distribution of sources: An application to aeromagnetic data in Germany
Authors: Bansal A. R. , Gabriel G. , Dimri V. P. , Krawczyk C. M.
Published: May 2011

We propose a modified centroid method to compute the depth to the bottom of magnetic sources (DBMS) based on a fractal source distribution. This approach provides better estimates than the assumption of an uncorrelated source distribution. We apply our approach to a recently compiled homogeneous set of aeromagnetic data from Germany. The deepest DBMS values are found for some large basin areas, i.e., the Molasse basin and parts of the North German basin. Smaller DBMS were estimated for the Moldanubian region in southern Germany and the northern part of the North German basin. A comparison of DBMS with heat-flow data, crustal temperatures at 3-km depths, and Moho depth indicates that DBMS is controlled by the geothermal condition of the earth’s crust in Germany and lithologic changes. Although the Upper Rhine graben and the Moldanubian region are characterized by small DBMS, a change in DBMS values in northern Germany seems to be related to the Elbe lineament.
Joint MT and CSEM data inversion using a multiplicative cost function approach
Authors: Abubakar A. , Li M. , Pan G. , Liu J. , Habashy T. M.
Published: May 2011

We have developed an inversion algorithm for jointly inverting controlled-source electromagnetic (CSEM) data and magnetotelluric (MT) data. It is well known that CSEM and MT data provide complementary information about the subsurface resistivity distribution; hence, it is useful to derive earth resistivity models that simultaneously and consistently fit both data sets. Because we are dealing with a large-scale computational problem, one usually uses an iterative technique in which a predefined cost function is optimized. One of the issues of this simultaneous joint inversion approach is how to assign the relative weights on the CSEM and MT data in constructing the cost function. We propose a multiplicative cost function instead of the traditional additive one. This function does not require an a priori choice of the relative weights between these two data sets. It will adaptively put CSEM and MT data on equal footing in the inversion process. The inversion is accomplished with a regularized Gauss-Newton minimization scheme where the model parameters are forced to lie within their upper and lower bounds by a nonlinear transformation procedure. We use a line search scheme to enforce a reduction of the cost function at each iteration. We tested our joint inversion approach on synthetic and field data.
Estrogen Sulfotransferase Is Expressed in Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue of Obese Humans in Association with TNF-α and SOCS3
Authors: Ahima Rexford S. , Stanley Takara L. , Khor Victor K. , Zanni Markella V. , Grinspoon Steven K.
Published: May 2011

Context and Objective:

Estrogen sulfotransferase (EST) catalyzes the inactivation of estrone and estradiol in numerous tissues. Animal studies suggest that EST modulates glucose and lipid metabolism in adipose tissue, but it is unknown whether EST is expressed in human adipose tissue and, if so, how its expression relates to features of the metabolic syndrome.

Design and Participants:

Cross-sectional data from 16 obese men and women with metabolic dysregulation were collected as part of a larger randomized trial at an academic medical center.

Outcome Measures:

Participants underwent assessment of body composition, oral glucose tolerance testing, measurement of serum hormones and inflammatory markers, and sc fat biopsy to assess adipose expression of TNF-α, suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), leptin, adiponectin, and EST.

Results:

EST expression was detectable in sc adipose tissue from both men and women. Log10 EST mRNA was not significantly associated with age, race, sex or menopausal status, or circulating levels of estrogen or testosterone. In univariate analysis, log10 EST mRNA was significantly associated with visceral adipose tissue area (r = 0.57, P = 0.02) as well as adipose tissue expression of TNF-α (r = 0.94, P < 0.0001) and SOCS3 mRNA (r = 0.93, P < 0.0001). The associations between EST expression and TNF-α and SOCS3 held in multivariate modeling controlling for age, race, sex and menopausal status, and visceral adiposity. EST expression was not significantly associated with the adipose tissue levels of leptin or adiponectin expression.

Conclusions:

EST is expressed in abdominal sc adipose tissue of both obese males and females in association with expression of TNF-α and SOCS3, suggesting potential roles in inflammation. Further studies are needed to determine the specific metabolic roles of EST expression in human adipose tissue.
“In a Space of Questions”: A Reflection on Religion and Economics at the Beginning of the Twenty-First Century
Authors: Bateman Bradley W.
Published: May 2011

Efforts to consider economic life from a religious perspective almost always run headlong into the conflict between utilitarian values, which are the cornerstone of modern economic analysis, and religious values, which are almost uniformly nonutilitarian. This essay looks at this conflict of values through the work of the moral philosopher Charles Taylor. While acknowledging the power of utilitarian analysis, Taylor shows that it treats only a subset of what is central to our ethical concerns. The essay looks back to the relationship between Tocqueville and John Stuart Mill and their views of the nature of economic analysis to try to see some of the power of Taylor's distinction. The essay concludes by looking at recent work in behavioral economics as evidence that economists can consider broader criteria than utility maximization in examining economic behavior. Only if economics can move beyond strict utilitarian analysis can it fully engage with the broad range of ethical concerns that underpin religious belief.
Single-crystal Copper–Phthalocyanine Nanorods Self-assembled by a Solvent Evaporation Method
Authors: Xiao Yan , Li Yan , Zhang Meng , Wang Feng-Xia , Pan Ge-Bo
Published: May 2011

Copper–phthalocyanine (CuPc) nanorods were prepared on a Si substrate by a solvent evaporation method. The results of XRD indicate that the CuPc nanorods were β-phase single crystals and grown along the [010] direction. The diameters of CuPc nanorods depend on the solution concentration, and the formation of CuPc nanorods is insensitive to the solvents and substrates. This implies that the growth of CuPc nanorods is dominated by the intrinsic π–π stacking between Pc rings. In addition, a p–n junction was formed between CuPc nanorod and Si substrate.
Short communication: Laboratory imaging spectroscopy of soil profiles
Authors: Buddenbaum Henning , Steffens Markus
Published: May 2011

An imaging spectrometer in a laboratory rack was used to examine soil profiles. Images in the 400–1000 nm range
with 4nm spectral resolution and less than 0.1mm spatial resolution of the top 30cm of the soil were acquired. These
images can be used to analyse the spatial distribution of chemical and physical soil characteristics and for discrimination
and classification of horizons and inclusions. Three-dimensional characterisations of soil properties are possible by
recording images of series of parallel slices.
Assessing the Suitability of Fractional Polynomial Methods in Health Services Research: A Perspective on the Categorization Epidemic
Authors: Williams Jennifer Stewart
Published: May 2011

Objective

To show how fractional polynomial methods can usefully replace the practice of arbitrarily categorizing data in epidemiology and health services research.

Methods

A health service setting is used to illustrate a structured and transparent way of representing nonlinear data without arbitrary grouping.

Results

When age is a regressor its effects on an outcome will be interpreted differently depending upon the placing of cutpoints or the use of a polynomial transformation.

Conclusions

Although it is common practice, categorization comes at a cost. Information is lost, and accuracy and statistical power reduced, leading to spurious statistical interpretation of the data. The fractional polynomial method is widely supported by statistical software programs, and deserves greater attention and use.
A Gibbs energy minimization method for constrained and partial equilibria
Authors: Koukkari Pertti , Pajarre Risto
Published: May 2011

The conventional Gibbs energy minimization methods apply elemental amounts of system components as conservation constraints in the form of a stoichiometric conservation matrix. The linear constraints designate the limitations set on the components described by the system constituents. The equilibrium chemical potentials of the constituents are obtained as a linear combination of the component-specific contributions, which are solved with the Lagrange method of undetermined multipliers. When the Gibbs energy of a multiphase system is also affected by conditions due to immaterial properties, the constraints must be adjusted by the respective entities. The constrained free energy (CFE) minimization method includes such conditions and incorporates every immaterial constraint accompanied with its conjugate potential. The respective work or affinity-related condition is introduced to the Gibbs energy calculation as an additional Lagrange multiplier. Thus, the minimization procedure can include systemic or external potential variables with their conjugate coefficients as well as non-equilibrium affinities. Their implementation extends the scope of Gibbs energy calculations to a number of new fields, including surface and interface systems, multi-phase fiber suspensions with Donnan partitioning, kinetically controlled partial equilibria, and pathway analysis of reaction networks.
Green chemistry in China
Authors: Cui Zheng , Beach Evan S. , Anastas Paul T.
Published: May 2011

The principles of green chemistry provide a framework for rational design of environmentally friendly chemicals and chemical processes having reduced intrinsic hazard. In China, the academic community has made advances in key areas, developing new catalysts, solvents, polymers, plastics additives, and biomass transformations that add to the “toolbox” of alternative, more benign, and transformative technologies. Educational and outreach activities have also flourished in recent years. This perspective highlights examples of green chemistry breakthroughs in China, focusing on literature reports from 2008 to 2010. While we cannot hope to be comprehensive, we aim to provide examples that demonstrate the scope of the current research field.
New Experiments for an Undivided Genetics
Authors: Rose Michael R , Mueller Laurence D , Burke Molly K
Published: May 2011

There used to be a broad split within the experimental genetics research community between those who did mechanistic research using homozygous laboratory strains and those who studied patterns of genetic variation in wild populations. The former benefited from the advantage of reproducible experiments, but faced difficulties of interpretation given possible genomic and evolutionary complexities. The latter research approach featured readily interpreted evolutionary and genomic contexts, particularly phylogeny, but was poor at determining functional significance. Such burgeoning experimental strategies as genome-wide analysis of quantitative trait loci, genotype–phenotype associations, and the products of experimental evolution are now fostering a unification of experimental genetic research that strengthens its scientific power.
Health-related behavior and quality of life among the elderly: a population-based study
Authors: Lima Margareth Guimarães , Barros Marilisa Berti de Azevedo , César Chester Luiz Galvão , Goldbaum Moisés , Carandina Luana , Alves Maria Cecília Goi Porto
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE: To assess the association between health-related behaviors and quality of life among the elderly. METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional study was carried out including 1,958 elderly living in four areas in the state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil, 2001/2002. Quality of life was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study SF-36-Item Short Form Health Survey instrument. This instrument's eight subscales and two components were the dependent variables. Independent variables were physical activity, weekly frequency of alcohol consumption and smoking. Multiple linear regression models were used to control for the effect of gender, age, schooling, work, area of residence and number of chronic conditions. RESULTS: Physical activity was positively associated with the eight SF-36 subscales. The stronger associations were found for role-physical (β=11.9), physical functioning (β=11.3) and physical component. Elderly individuals who consumed alcohol at least once a week showed a better quality of life than those did not consume alcohol. Compared to non-smokers, smokers had a poorer quality of life for the mental component (β=-2.4). CONCLUSIONS: The study results showed that physical activity, moderate alcohol consumption and no smoking are positively associated with a better quality of life in the elderly.
Breeding sites of Aedes aegypti in metropolitan vacant lots in Greater Vitória, State of Espírito Santo, Brazil
Authors: Mendonça Haydêe Fagundes Moreira Silva de , Ferreira Adelson Luiz , Santos Claudiney Biral dos , Rezende Helder Ricas , Ferreira Gabriel Eduardo Melim , Leite Gustavo Rocha , Falqueto Aloísio
Published: May 2011

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to evaluate the presence of Aedes aegypti in breeding sites located in vacant lots (VLs) and determine the effectiveness of VL cleaning to reduce insect foci. METHODS: Two types of VLs were sampled, the experimental VL, which was cleaned monthly, and the control VL, which was not cleaned. RESULTS: Monthly cleaning of VLs reduced the abundance of immature forms of A. aegypti. CONCLUSIONS: Strategies for combating this vector should include regular cleaning of VLs and educating the public regarding the risks of discarding waste in inappropriate areas.
Actinomicose pulmonar simulando tumor de Tobias-Pancoast
Authors: Teixeira Amanda Nogueira Barbosa Dantas , Alves Carmen Laís Gervásio Fônseca , Martins Filho Erbert Portela , Mendes Evandro Magno Firmeza , Nunes Jefferson Torres
Published: May 2011

A actinomicose é uma infecção rara que pode envolver diversos órgãos. O envolvimento torácico é incomum (10-20%). No presente trabalho, é descrito o caso de um paciente de 33 anos, HIV negativo, com dor torácica posterior à esquerda em queimação com irradiação para membro superior esquerdo e diminuição da força com parestesias. A tomografia computadorizada evidenciou uma massa em contato com a parede torácica. Após realização de toracotomia foi visualizada lesão pulmonar sólida vascularizada aderida no lobo superior esquerdo, infiltrando a parede torácica posterior e ápice da cavidade. A biopsia incisional da lesão e o estudo microbiológico evidenciaram actinomicose.
Espécimes de Schistosoma mansoni descritos por Pirajá da Silva no Brasil (1908) reexaminados pela técnica de microscopia de varredura a laser confocal
Authors: Machado-Silva José Roberto , Neves Renata Heisler , Gomes Delir Corrêa
Published: May 2011

INTRODUÇÃO: Pirajá da Silva fez contribuição magnífica à helmintologia ao descrever ovos de Schistosoma mansoni nas fezes de um paciente, no Estado da Bahia e a morfologia de vermes adultos. MÉTODOS: Neste estudo, apresentamos uma avaliação microscópica das lâminas montadas e depositadas na Coleção Helmintológica do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz. A técnica empregada nesta nova análise foi a microscopia de varredura a laser confocal. RESULTADOS: Na parte anterior dos vermes adultos machos, observamos ventosas com musculatura bem desenvolvida e células germinativas dentro dos lobos testiculares. Visualizamos, também, espinhos localizados na região mediana do canal ginecóforo. Na superfície dorsal, encontramos tubérculos e feixes musculares transversais e longitudinais. Em relação ao aparelho reprodutivo feminino, pudemos distinguir um ovo no interior do útero e o ovário alongado com células germinativas. As glândulas vitelínicas estavam restritas à parte posterior das fêmeas conectadas por um ducto vitelínico curto. CONCLUSÕES: As características morfológicas são similares as estudadas anteriormente por Pirajá da Silva com vermes frescos. Além disso, este estudo demonstra a importância de se depositar espécimes nas coleções helmintológicas abrindo possibilidade de novos estudos com estas lâminas.
Qualidade de maçãs 'Royal gala' submetidas ao dano mecânico por impacto e aplicação de 1-metilciclopropeno em dois sistemas comerciais de armazenamento
Authors: Hendges Marcos Vinicius , Steffens Cristiano André , Antoniolli Lucimara Rogéria , Amarante Cassandro Vidal Talamini do , Brackmann Auri
Published: May 2011

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos do dano mecânico por impacto e da aplicação de 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP) sobre a qualidade de maçãs 'Royal Gala' mantidas em armazenamento refrigerado (AR) e em atmosfera controlada (AC). Os tratamentos avaliados foram dano mecânico (sem e com dano por impacto) combinado com a aplicação de 1-MCP (0 e 625 nL L-1). Os frutos foram armazenados durante quatro meses em armazenamento refrigerado (AR; 0 ºC ± 1 ºC e 92 ± 2 % de UR) (experimento 1) e durante oito meses em atmosfera controlada (AC; 1,2 kPa de O2 + 2,0 kPa de CO2; 0 ºC ± 0,1 ºC e 96 ± 2 % de UR) (experimento 2). Em AR, os frutos tratados com 1-MCP apresentaram maior firmeza de polpa, além de maior área escurecida no local danificado, na saída da câmara. Nesta condição de armazenamento, após sete dias em condição ambiente, os frutos tratados com 1-MCP apresentaram acidez titulável mais elevada, maior escurecimento da epiderme e menor profundidade de escurecimento da polpa no local danificado. Em AC, a aplicação do 1-MCP proporcionou, após a saída da câmara, frutos com menor teor de sólidos solúveis e maior escurecimento da epiderme no local danificado, sendo que, após sete dias em condição ambiente, os frutos apresentaram maior profundidade de escurecimento do tecido da polpa no local danificado. O dano por impacto ocasionou escurecimento da polpa de maçãs 'Royal Gala'. O 1-MCP não inibiu os efeitos do dano, mas preservou a qualidade dos frutos, especialmente em AR.
In vitro organogenesis in some citrus species
Authors: Schinor Evandro Henrique , Azevedo Fernando Alves de , Mourão Filho Francisco de Assis Alves , Mendes Beatriz Madalena Januzzi
Published: May 2011

In vitro organogenesis of Citrus was studied for the genotypes Citrus sinensis cv. 'Natal', C. limonia, C. volkameriana, and C. aurantium, with the use of epicotyl segments-derived explants, cultured in MT salts and vitamins medium supplemented with different concentrations of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP - 0.0; 0.5; 1.0; 1.5 or 2.0 mg L-1). For the recalcitrant genotypes C. limonia and C. aurantium the in vitro organogenesis was also studied with internodal segments-derived explants, cultured in MT salts and vitamins medium supplemented with 0; 0.5; 1.0; 2.0, or 4.0 mg L-1 of BAP. The efficiency of culture medium supplementation with the combination of BAP (0.0; 1.0, or 2.0 mg L-1) and NAA (1-naphthaleneacetic acid - 0.0; 0.3, or 0.5 mg L-1) in the development of adventitious shoots was evaluated for C. aurantium. Culture medium supplementation with BAP is not essential for the adventitious shoots development in the four genotypes studied when epicotyl segments-derived explants are used. In general, culture media supplementation with BAP decreased the percentage of responsive explants excepted for C. sinensis cv. 'Natal' and C. limonia when the concentrations of 1.5 and 2.0 mg/L were used. The presence of cytokinin, in concentrations up to 2 mg/L, stimulated the in vitro organogenesis when internodal segments-derived explants were used for C. limonia and C. aurantium. For C. aurantium no adventitious shoots developed in explants (internodal segments) cultured in basal culture medium, without BAP supplementation. Although no statistic differences could be detected, culture media supplementation with the combination of BAP and NAA favored the development of adventitious shoots in C. aurantium. The best concentration of NAA varied according to BAP concentration. The results presented herein, show that Citrus in vitro organogenesis depends on the interaction of culture medium composition, explant differentiation level, and genotype.
Qualidade das amenidades urbanas: uma estimação da propensão marginal a pagar para as regiões metropolitanas do Brasil
Authors: Rocha Roberta Moraes , Magalhães André Matos
Published: May 2011

O artigo tem como objetivo principal obter evidências das preferências dos trabalhadores residentes das Regiões Metropolitanas (RMs) do Brasil pelo consumo das amenidades locais, em especial as de clima. Desta forma, com base no montante que os trabalhadores estão dispostos a pagar por esses atributos, as Regiões Metropolitanas são ordenadas com respeito à "qualidade" dos mesmos. A abordagem da escolha discreta, com base no método mixed logit, é aplicada para valorar as amenidades. A partir deste método foram relaxadas três hipóteses da abordagem tradicional hedônica: i) a hipótese do trabalhador representativo (TRAIN, 2003); ii) a hipótese de livre mobilidade dos trabalhadores (BAYER, 2006); e iii) a hipótese de que o pesquisador é capaz de observar todos os atributos importantes dos imóveis (VILLAS-BOAS e WINER, 1999). A análise é realizada para nove RMs Brasileiras: Belém; Fortaleza; Recife; Salvador; Belo Horizonte; Rio de Janeiro; São de Paulo; Curitiba; e Porto Alegre. Em resumo, os resultados sugerem que os consumidores têm preferências heterogêneas pelo consumo das amenidades locais, e que a Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro, em comparação com as demais, está melhor servida dos atributos locais considerados para a estimação do Índice de Qualidade das Amenidades (IQA).
Uma análise sistêmica dos determinantes da fragilidade financeira Minskyana
Authors: Morello Thiago Fonseca
Published: May 2011

O objetivo do presente artigo é identificar os fundamentos, próprios à dimensão da atividade produtiva, da capacidade de uma empresa capitalista para financiar internamente suas operações. Adotando-se a concepção de Minsky, constrói-se um modelo computacional microeconômico. A emulação do lado real e do lado financeiro de uma economia, a partir de apenas um algoritmo comportamental, i.e., de apenas um tipo de agente, firmas, no caso, é a principal característica do modelo. Os resultados são: (i) é possível, a pena de um erro estatístico não superior a 5%, classificar uma firma como hedge ou não-hedge, com base apenas no conhecimento da taxa de realização da produção, da proporção do valor do produto correspondente ao custo de produção e da sensibilidade do investimento à taxa de lucro esperada e; (ii) tal possibilidade sustenta-se dinamicamente.
A construção de si em um grupo de apoio para pessoas com transtornos alimentares
Authors: Scorsolini-Comin Fabio , Souza Laura Vilela e , Santos Manoel Antônio dos
Published: May 2011

Este estudo teve como objetivo compreender a construção de si mesmo a partir do discurso de pessoas diagnosticadas com anorexia e bulimia, participantes de um grupo de apoio psicológico. Participaram 14 jovens atendidas em um serviço público de saúde de um hospital universitário. A partir do referencial histórico-cultural bakhtiniano, analisaram-se qualitativamente as transcrições audiogravadas de 10 sessões consecutivas do grupo. Constatou-se que os discursos produzidos socialmente sobre os transtornos alimentares são evocados nas falas das participantes e encontram no grupo um espaço para que possam ser contestados, negociados ou aceitos, promovendo a desconstrução de mitos erigidos em torno da enfermidade. A análise empreendida aponta o grupo como uma ferramenta terapêutica significativa para a produção de novos sentidos, não patologizantes com relação aos transtornos alimentares e seus portadores.
Influência parental no desporto: a percepção de pais e jovens atletas portugueses
Authors: Gomes António Rui
Published: May 2011

Este trabalho avalia a influência parental no desporto, a partir da análise da percepção de 205 pais e 213 jovens atletas. Para tal, aplicou-se um protocolo de avaliação com os seguintes instrumentos: Questionário de Comportamentos Parentais no Desporto, Questionário de Orientação Motivacional para o Desporto e Escala de Avaliação Cognitiva da Competição: Percepção de Ameaça e Desafio. No caso dos atletas, encontraram-se diferenças na avaliação dos pais em função do gênero, escalão desportivo e resultados desportivos obtidos. De igual modo, os atletas avaliaram de forma diferente os pais quando se referiram ao pai e à mãe, separadamente. No que toca aos pais, observaram-se diferenças entre pais de rapazes e de moças, entre pais mais novos e mais velhos e entre pais mais ou menos escolarizados. Assim, pode-se concluir que existem diferenças no modo como é exercida a influência parental, devendo esse aspecto merecer a atenção dos agentes desportivos e da investigação futura.
Práticas educativas parentais em relação ao filho único e ao primogênito
Authors: Freitas Ana Paula Corrêa de Oliveira , Piccinini Cesar Augusto
Published: May 2011

O objetivo deste estudo foi examinar eventuais diferenças das práticas educativas parentais em relação a filhos únicos e primogênitos de famílias com dois filhos. Participaram 12 famílias com filho único e 10 com dois filhos, emparelhadas conforme o nível socioeconômico, idade e gênero das crianças. A idade dos filhos únicos variou entre 4,6 e 6,1 anos (M=5,5, DP=0,51) e a dos primogênitos entre 4,3 e 6,3 anos (M=5,1, DP=0,78). Mães e pais dos dois grupos responderam a uma entrevista sobre práticas educativas parentais, cujas respostas foram submetidas à análise de conteúdo. O teste do qui-quadrado revelou diferença marginalmente significativa somente nas práticas maternas e paternas em relação ao filho único. Verificou-se semelhança nas práticas educativas entre mães e pais em ambos os grupos. Os resultados foram discutidos à luz da literatura, buscando entender os fatores que podem contribuir para explicar semelhanças das práticas educativas utilizadas para filhos únicos e primogênitos.
Investigación psicoanalítica en la universidad
Authors: Jardim Luciane Loss , Rojas Hernández María Del Carmen
Published: May 2011

Este artículo tiene como propósito puntualizar las diferencias esenciales entre la investigación científica - como se establece desde el racionalismo contemporáneo - y la investigación psicoanalítica. A partir de esta diferenciación se plantean las condiciones necesarias para una investigación psicoanalítica, fundamentada en criterios exclusivamente psicoanalíticos, que tiene como objeto de estudio los procesos psíquicos inconscientes originarios de la clínica analítica. Luego, intentamos describir la formalización de la investigación psicoanalítica en el medio universitario que presupone la descripción y conceptualización del caso clínico.
Violência, dependência química e transtornos mentais em presidiários
Authors: Tavares Gislaine Pereira , Almeida Rosa Maria Martins de
Published: May 2011

O presente trabalho realizou uma análise de artigos científicos selecionados nas fontes eletrônicas SciELO, PubMed e Web of Science, no período entre 1998 e 2008. Na elaboração da revisão e na discussão de dados, foram utilizados os descritores: violência (violence); dependência de drogas (drug dependence), transtornos mentais (mental disturbs) e prisioneiros (prisoners). No total, foram encontrados 408 artigos sobre a temática, tendo sido utilizados 60 deles, juntamente com 23 livros e teses que abordam a problemática em questão. A revisão teve por objetivo analisar a relação entre violência, dependência química e transtornos mentais na população carcerária masculina. Os resultados mostraram que o uso abusivo de drogas é um importante fator de risco para a violência e que os transtornos mentais, muitas vezes, acompanham atos violentos. Conclui-se que a violência e a dependência de drogas estão diretamente relacionadas em prisioneiros.
Trabalho em saúde com pacientes apenados: sentidos metafóricos gerados no contexto hospitalar
Authors: Irala Denise de Azevedo , Cezar-Vaz Marta Regina , Cestari Maria Elisabeth
Published: May 2011

OBJETIVO: Descrever os sentidos metafóricos gerados baseados no processo de trabalho da equipe de saúde com pacientes apenados internos em uma instituição hospitalar. MÉTODOS: Pesquisa qualitativa, de cunho exploratório, com abordagem sócio-histórica na dimensão dialética, realizada com os componentes da equipe de saúde: equipe de enfermagem (enfermeiro, técnico e auxiliar de enfermagem), médicos, fisioterapeutas e nutricionistas. A coleta de dados foi feita por entrevistas semiestruturadas gravadas. A análise dos dados foi realizada por intermédio da perspectiva hermenêutica dialética. RESULTADOS: No processo de trabalho, identificou-se que, a partir do núcleo de sentido metafórico central "ser humano" originaram-se outros quatro sentidos principais: sentimento antagônico entre paciente e apenado, docilidade, vulnerabilidade e compaixão. CONCLUSÃO: Os sentidos metafóricos positivos e negativos revelaram que o produto do trabalho existe, sendo o processo permeado tanto pelo sentido da estigmatização, como da aproximação do paciente apenado.