bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Exposure of Fetuses and Children to Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals: A European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) and Pediatric Endocrine Society (PES) Call to Action Statement
Authors: Skakkebaek Niels E. , Toppari Jorma , Söder Olle , Gordon Catherine M. , Divall Sara , Draznin Martin
Published: August 2011

Objective:

During recent years, evidence has accumulated that both wildlife species and humans are exposed to ubiquitous endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Some are persistent in our bodies; others are nonpersistent but are produced in large quantities. Hitherto, the bulk of research in this area has been carried out by basic and experimental scientists and wildlife researchers. Relatively few clinical scientists have been engaged in research on this topic to date. The aim of this statement is to have pediatric endocrinologists consider the issue of endocrine disrupters in their clinical work and research.

Participants:

Six pediatric endocrinologists who belonged to working groups on endocrine disrupters endorsed by the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology (ESPE) and the Pediatric Endocrine Society (PES) participated, including three members from each society. Meetings were limited to the members of the working groups. No funding was associated with the work.

Evidence:

Important data sources were publications from the World Health Organization, the European Science Foundation, and The Endocrine Society. Several of the participants have made long-standing contributions to the field of endocrine disruption. No unpublished work was considered.

Consensus Process:

The statement was written by the committee members together, using e-mail and phone. A draft was submitted to the Boards of the ESPE and PES. After some changes, the draft was accepted by both Boards.

Conclusions:

Pediatric endocrinologists are urged to be alert to the possible significance of endocrine-disrupting chemicals when assessing both clinical problems and research data where etiologies of endocrine symptoms or diseases are unknown.
Otic ablation of smoothened reveals direct and indirect requirements for Hedgehog signaling in inner ear development
Authors: Brown Alexander S. , Epstein Douglas J.
Published: August 2011

In mouse embryos lacking sonic hedgehog (Shh), dorsoventral polarity within the otic vesicle is disrupted. Consequently, ventral otic derivatives, including the cochlear duct and saccule, fail to form, and dorsal otic derivatives, including the semicircular canals, endolymphatic duct and utricle, are malformed or absent. Since inner ear patterning and morphogenesis are heavily dependent on extracellular signals derived from tissues that are also compromised by the loss of Shh, the extent to which Shh signaling acts directly on the inner ear for its development is unclear. To address this question, we generated embryos in which smoothened (Smo), an essential transducer of Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, was conditionally inactivated in the otic epithelium (Smoecko). Ventral otic derivatives failed to form in Smoecko embryos, whereas vestibular structures developed properly. Consistent with these findings, we demonstrate that ventral, but not dorsal, otic identity is directly dependent on Hh. The role of Hh in cochlear-vestibular ganglion (cvg) formation is more complex, as both direct and indirect signaling mechanisms are implicated. Our data suggest that the loss of cvg neurons in Shh–/– animals is due, in part, to an increase in Wnt responsiveness in the otic vesicle, resulting in the ectopic expression of Tbx1 in the neurogenic domain and subsequent repression of Ngn1 transcription. A mitogenic role for Shh in cvg progenitor proliferation was also revealed in our analysis of Smoecko embryos. Taken together, these data contribute to a better understanding of the intrinsic and extrinsic signaling properties of Shh during inner ear development.
Cell cycle arrest in node cells governs ciliogenesis at the node to break left-right symmetry
Authors: Komatsu Yoshihiro , Kaartinen Vesa , Mishina Yuji
Published: August 2011

Cilia at the node generate a leftward fluid flow that breaks left-right symmetry. However, the molecular mechanisms that regulate ciliogenesis at the node are largely unknown. Here, we show that the epiblast-specific deletion of the gene encoding the BMP type 1 receptor (Acvr1) compromised development of nodal cilia, which results in defects in leftward fluid flow and, thus, abnormalities in left-right patterning. Acvr1 deficiency in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) resulted in severe defects in their quiescence-induced primary cilia. Although the induction of quiescence in wild-type MEFs leads to an increase in the level of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27Kip1 and to rapid p27Kip1 phosphorylation on Ser10, MEFs deficient in Acvr1 show a reduction in both p27Kip1 protein levels and in p27Kip1 Ser10 phosphorylation. The observed defects in cilium development were rescued by the introduction of p27Kip1 into Acvr1-deficient MEFs, implying that BMP signaling positively controls p27Kip1 stability in the G0 phase via p27Kip1 Ser10 phosphorylation, which is a prerequisite for induction of primary cilia. Importantly, in control embryos, p27Kip1 protein is clearly present and strongly phosphorylated on Ser10 in cells on the quiescent ventral surface of the node. By contrast, the corresponding cells in the node of Acvr1 mutant embryos were proliferative and showed a dramatic attenuation in both p27Kip1 protein levels and phosphorylation on Ser10. Our data suggest that cell quiescence controlled by BMP signaling via ACVR1 is required for transient formation of nodal cilia, and provide insight into the fundamental question of how the node represents the mechanistic `node' that regulates the development of left-right symmetry in vertebrates.
Reinforced tension line suture closure after midline laparotomy in emergency surgery
Authors: Agarwal Akhilesh , Hossain Zahid , Agarwal Anshu , Das Amitabha , Chakraborty Saurav , Mitra Nilanjan , Gupta Madhumita , Ray Udipta
Published: August 2011

Midline laparotomy is an emergency surgical operation frequently performed in cases of intra-abdominal pathology. Closure of the incision is usually done by continuous suturing by mass closure. In an emergency operation the intra-abdominal milieu is usually contaminated leading to gut oedema and, hence, an increase in postoperative intra-abdominal pressure. It is complicated by wound dehiscence, burst abdomen, etc. The cause of this complication is an increase in horizontal tensile forces on the site of the insertion of sutures which cuts the sheath. In this technique of reinforced tension line suture peak tensile forces are distributed from the suture base to the surrounding tissue through a horizontal suture, thereby preventing the suture from cutting through the tissue. From July 2007 to June 2009 patients requiring laparotomy were randomly divided into test and control groups by a ‘closed envelope’ technique. Their postoperative intra-abdominal pressure was recorded by urinary bladder catheter manometry. The result of this technique was compared with the incidence of burst abdomen in cases where it was closed by continuous suture. A total of 190 patients underwent laparotomy. In 90 the abdomen was closed by reinforced tension line (RTL) and in 100 patients by continuous suturing. None of the RTL group had a burst abdomen. Thirteen who had closure by continuous suture had a burst abdomen. The analysis of the results was done using the chi-square test. On comparing the incidence of burst abdomen in cases operated by continuous suture technique and by RTL, the P value was found to be 0.0026 which is highly significant. On analysis of the incidence of burst abdomen in cases having a grade II intra-abdominal pressure the P value was found to be 0.0009 which is highly significant. Closure of midline incision by RTL reduces the incidence of burst abdomen. Registration No. PROVCTRI/2008/091/000269 ( http://www.ctri.in ).
Management of intrathoracic oesophageal perforation: analysis of 16 cases
Authors: Tettey M , Edwin F , Aniteye E , Sereboe L , Tamatey M , Entsua-Mensah K , Kotei D , Frimpong-Boateng K
Published: August 2011

Intrathoracic oesophageal perforation remains a life-threatening lesion that requires early diagnosis and the appropriate intervention in order to reduce morbidity and mortality. Management depends largely on the cause of the perforation, the integrity of the oesophagus and the time lapse between the perforation and the commencement of treatment. Our aim was to evaluate the management options that were employed in the treatment of patients with oesophageal perforation and the outcome. The records of 16 patients (11 males and 5 females) who had been operated on from 1994–2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Their ages ranged between 2–66 years (mean 36.4). Malignant oesophageal perforations were excluded from the study. The aetiology was iatrogenic in 10 (62.5%), foreign bodies five (31.2%) and spontaneous one (6.2%). Six patients (37.5%) presented within 24 h of their injury and 10 (62.5%) presented after 24 h. Thoracotomy and intrathoracic primary repair was possible in five (31.2%) cases. Oesophagectomy, cervical oesophagostomy and feeding gastrostomy were carried out in 11 (68.8%). Oesophageal substitution was by colon, routed retrosternally. One patient (6.2%) died after oesophagectomy from overwhelming sepsis. Oesophageal perforation is a life-threatening condition. Early diagnosis and the institution of prompt and appropriate treatment ensure good outcome.
Asymmetric Effects of Fashions on the Formation and Dissolution of Networks: Board Interlocks with Internet Companies, 1996–2006
Authors: Yue Lori Qingyuan
Published: August 2011

This paper extends the contextual perspective of network evolution to account for a more complete process of network evolution by showing that the impacts of fads and fashions on the formation and dissolution of interorganizational networks are asymmetric. Building on contact theory, this paper proposes that direct contact affords a flow of knowledge that counters tendencies to social conformity. Network dissolution differs from network formation in that partners have already obtained direct information. As a result, network dissolution is not as responsive to fads and fashions as network formation, and network structures induced by fads and fashions often survive beyond the life cycle of a fashion. An analysis of the interlocking ties of S&P 1500 firms with Internet companies from 1996 to 2006 supports the view that fads and fashions have asymmetric effects on the evolution of networks and also shows that (1) fads and fashions have a strong impact on the formation of networks but not on their dissolution, (2) the networking behaviors of organizations with direct contact are less induced by fads and fashions, and (3) the networks formed by organizations with direct contact during the heyday of a fashion survive longer.
Price Formats for Branded Components in Industrial Markets: An Integration of Transaction Cost Economics and the Resource-Based View
Authors: Lo Desmond (Ho-Fu) , Frias Kellilynn M. , Ghosh Mrinal
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we propose an approach to show how the capability-based perspective of the resource-based view of the firm can be integrated with the comparative-governance approach of transaction cost economics to shed light on governance issues in interfirm relationships. We argue that transacting parties create value not only through the employment of partner-specific investment and coordination activities but also through the employment of heterogeneous, firm-specific resources that each firm brings to the relationship and that, in turn, governance structures reflect a discriminating alignment with these two distinct forms of value-creating activities and resources. Our thesis is empirically tested in the context of industrial original equipment manufacturers employing branded component contracts with independent component vendors. Specifically, we investigate the conditions under which the price terms for branded components are agreed upon (more fixed) ex ante versus negotiated (more flexible) ex post. Our results offer two insights. First, the chosen governance form reflects a trade-off between safeguarding and adaptation motives even among parties engaged in cooperative relationships. Second, valuable, firm-specific resources that preexist outside of the exchange relationship are at stake in these cooperative yet contractually incomplete relationships. They, together with relationship-specific investments and activities, have a significant impact on governance design.
Small Supernumerary Marker Chromosomes and Uniparental Disomy Have a Story to Tell
Authors: Liehr Thomas , Ewers Elisabeth , Hamid Ahmed B. , Kosyakova Nadezda , Voigt Martin , Weise Anja , Manvelyan Marina
Published: August 2011

Small supernumerary maker chromosomes (sSMC) and uniparental disomy (UPD) are rare, and a combination of both is rarely encountered. Accordingly, only 46 sSMC cases UPD have been reported. Despite of its rareness, UPD has to be considered, especially in prenatal cases with sSMC. Here, the authors reviewed all sSMC cases with UPD (sSMCU+) and compared them to sSMC without UPD (sSMCU−), which resulted in the following correlations: 1) every sSMC, irrespective of its chromosomal origin, may be principally connected with UPD; 2) mixed hetero- and iso-UPD (hUPD/iUPD) can be observed most often in sSMCU+ cases followed by complete iUPD, complete hUPD, and segmental iUPD; 3) UPD of chromosomes 6, 7, 14, 15, 16, and 20 is most often reported in sSMCU+; 4) maternal UPD was approximately nine times more frequent than paternal UPD; 5) if mosaic with a normal cell line, acrocentric-derived sSMC had a three times higher chance of occurrence than the corresponding nonmosaic sSMC cases; 6) UPD in connection with a parentally inherited sSMC is, if existent at all, a rare event; and 7) the gender type and shape of sSMC had no effect on UPD formation. Overall, sSMCU+ cases may have a story to tell about chromosome number control mechanisms in early embryogenesis.
Genotypic and Phenotypic Differences between Nodal and Extranodal Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphomas
Authors: Al-Humood Salah A. , Al-Qallaf Aisha S. , AlShemmari Salem H. , Francis Issam M. , Junaid Thamradeen A. , Marouf Rajaa A. , Al-Mulla Fahd
Published: August 2011

Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a heterogeneous group of diseases that have diverse clinical, pathological, and biological features. Here, it is shown that primary nodal and extranodal DLBCLs differ genomically and phenotypically. Using conventional comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), the authors assessed the chromosomal aberrations in 18 nodal, 13 extranodal, and 5 mixed DLBCLs. The results demonstrate significantly distinct chromosomal aberrations exemplified by gains of chromosomal arms 1p, 7p, 12q24.21-12q24.31, and 22q and chromosome X and loss of chromosome 4, 6q, and 18q22.3-23 in extranodal compared with nodal DLBCLs. Nodal DLBCLs showed an increased tendency for 18q amplification and BCL2 protein overexpression compared with extranodal and mixed tumors. Using a panel of five antibodies against GCET1, MUM1, CD10, BCL6, and FOXP1 proteins to subclassify DLBCLs according to the recent Choi algorithm, the authors showed that the genomic profiles observed between the nodal and extranodal DLBCLs were not due to the different proportions of GCB vs ABC in the two groups. Further delineation of these genomic differences was illuminated by the use of high-resolution 21K BAC array CGH performed on 12 independent new cases of extranodal DLBCL. The authors demonstrated for the first time a novel genome and proteome-based signatures that may differentiate the two lymphoma types.
Compartmentalization of Pancreatic Secretory Zymogen Granules as Revealed by Low-Voltage Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Bendayan Moise , Londono Irene , Paransky Eugene
Published: August 2011

Low-voltage (5-kV) transmission electron microscopy revealed a novel aspect of the pancreatic acinar cell secretory granules not previously detected by conventional (80-kV) transmission electron microscopy. Examination of ultra-thin (30-nm) sections of non-osmicated, stain-free pancreatic tissue sections by low-voltage electron microscopy revealed the existence of granules with non-homogeneous matrix and sub-compartments having circular or oval profiles of different electron densities and sizes. Such partition is completely masked when observing tissues after postfixation with osmium tetroxide by low-voltage transmission electron microscopy at 5 kV and/or when thicker sections (70 nm) are examined at 80 kV. This morphological partition reflects an internal compartmentalization of the granule content that was previously predicted by morphological, physiological, and biochemical means. It corresponds to the segregation of the different secretory proteins inside the granule as demonstrated by high-resolution immunocytochemistry and reflects a well-organized aggregation of the secretory proteins at the time of granule formation in the trans-Golgi. Such partition of the granule matrix undergoes changes under experimental conditions known to alter the secretory process such as stimulation of secretion or diabetes.
Expression of Claudins and Their Prognostic Significance in Noninvasive Urothelial Neoplasms of the Human Urinary Bladder
Authors: Székely Eszter , Törzsök Péter , Riesz Péter , Korompay Anna , Fintha Attila , Székely Tamás , Lotz Gábor , Nyirády Péter , Romics Imre , Tímár József , Schaff Zsuzsa , Kiss András
Published: August 2011

The members of the claudin family are major integral transmembrane protein constituents of tight junctions. Normal and neoplastic tissues can be characterized by unique qualitative and quantitative distribution of claudin subtypes, which may be related to clinicopathological features. Differential diagnosis and prognosis of nonmuscle invasive tumor entities of urinary bladder epithelium are often challenging. The aim was to investigate the expression profile of claudins in inverted urothelial papillomas (IUPs), urothelial papillomas (UPs), papillary urothelial neoplasms of low malignant potential (PUNLMPs), and intraepithelial (Ta), low-grade urothelial cell carcinomas (LG-UCCs) in order to reveal potential prognostic and differential diagnostic values of certain claudins. Claudin-1, -2, -4, and -7 protein expressions detected by immunohistochemistry and clinical data were analyzed in 15 IUPs, 20 UPs, 20 PUNLMPs, and 20 LG-UCCs. UPs, PUNLMPs, and LG-UCCs showed significantly decreased claudin-1 expression in comparison to IUPs. LG-UCCs expressing claudin-4 over the median were associated with significantly shorter recurrence-free survival. PUNLMPs expressing claudin-1 over the median revealed significantly longer recurrence-free survival. High claudin-1 protein expression might help to differentiate IUP from UPs, PUNLMPs, and LG-UCCs. High claudin-4 expression may determine an unfavorable clinical course of LG-UCCs, while high claudin-1 expression in PUNLMP was associated with markedly better clinical outcome.
Claudin-18 Is an Early-Stage Marker of Pancreatic Carcinogenesis
Authors: Tanaka Mariko , Shibahara Junji , Fukushima Noriyoshi , Shinozaki Aya , Umeda Makoto , Ishikawa Shumpei , Kokudo Norihiro , Fukayama Masashi
Published: August 2011

Pancreatic ductal neoplasms exhibit gastric epithelium–like characteristics. In this study, we evaluated the expression of claudin-18 (CLDN18), a gastric epithelium–associated claudin, in pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasias (PanINs), intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs), mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCNs), and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs) using immunohistochemistry. We observed a high level of expression of CLDN18 in PanINs (31/32, 97%), IPMNs (61/65, 95%), and MCNs (4/5, 80%) using ordinary tissue section analysis. Furthermore, we observed a high level of CLDN18 expression in PDACs (109/156, 70%) using tissue microarray analysis. However, the normal pancreatic duct or the ductal metaplasia of the acinar cells was not immunoreactive. Comparative analysis of CLDN18 and phenotypic markers in IPMNs revealed that simultaneous expression of CLDN18 and intestinal markers frequently occurred, even in intestinal-type IPMNs. CLDN18 variant 2 mRNA was expressed and was similarly upregulated by phorbol 12–myristate 13–acetate (PMA) treatment in pancreatic cancer cell lines and in a gastric cancer cell line. An inhibitor of pan-PKC (GF109203X) completely suppressed this upregulation in pancreatic cancer cells. These results indicate that CLDN18, a marker for the early carcinogenetic process, is commonly expressed in precursor lesions of PDAC. Activation of the PKC pathway might be involved in CLDN18 expression associated with pancreatic carcinogenesis.
Sensitive Immunofluorescent Staining of Cells via Generation of Fluorescent Nanoscale Polymer Films in Response to Biorecognition
Authors: Avens Heather J. , Berron Brad J. , May Allison M. , Voigt Katerina R. , Seedorf Gregory J. , Balasubramaniam Vivek , Bowman Christopher N.
Published: August 2011

Immunofluorescent staining is central to nearly all cell-based research, yet only a few fluorescent signal amplification approaches for cell staining exist, each with distinct limitations. Here, the authors present a novel, fluorescent polymerization-based amplification (FPBA) method that is shown to enable similar signal intensities as the highly sensitive, enzyme-based tyramide signal amplification (TSA) approach. Being non-enzymatic, FPBA is not expected to suffer from nonspecific staining of endogenous enzymes, as occurs with enzyme-based approaches. FPBA employs probes labeled with photopolymerization initiators, which lead to the controlled formation of fluorescent polymer films only at targeted biorecognition sites. Nuclear pore complex proteins (NPCs; in membranes), vimentin (in filaments), and von Willebrand factor (in granules) were all successfully immunostained by FPBA. Also, FPBA was demonstrated to be capable of multicolor immunostaining of multiple antigens. To assess relative sensitivity, decreasing concentrations of anti-NPC antibody were used, indicating that both FPBA and TSA stained NPC down to a 1:100,000 dilution. Nonspecific, cytoplasmic signal resulting from NPC staining was found to be reduced up to 5.5-fold in FPBA as compared to TSA, demonstrating better signal localization with FPBA. FPBA’s unique approach affords a combination of preferred attributes, including high sensitivity and specificity not otherwise available with current techniques.
Cellular and Subcellular Aquaporin-4 Distribution in the Mouse Neurohypophysis and the Effects of Osmotic Stimulation
Authors: Mesbah-Benmessaoud Ouahiba , Benabdesselam Roza , Hardin-Pouzet Hélène , Dorbani-Mamine Latifa , Grange-Messent Valérie
Published: August 2011

Water channel aquaporin-4 (AQP4) is the most abundant water channel in the rodent brain and is mainly expressed in cerebral areas involved in central osmoreception and osmoregulation. The neurohypophysis is the release site of hypothalamic neurohormones vasopressin and oxytocin, which are involved in the regulation of the water balance. The authors investigated the cellular and subcellular distribution of AQP4 in the mouse neurohypophysis before and after chronic osmotic stimulation, using immunofluorescence microscopy and immunoperoxidase electron microscopy. They showed that AQP4 was abundant in the mouse hypophysis, mainly in the neural lobe. AQP4 was discontinuously distributed along pituicytes plasma membranes, in the dense neurosecretory granules and microvesicles of nerve endings and fibers, and along the luminal and abluminal membranes of fenestrated capillary endothelial cells. After chronic osmotic stimulation, AQP4 immunolabeling was enhanced. Taken together, these results suggest that AQP4 could be involved in the pituicyte sensor effect during osmoregulation, the modification and/or maturation mechanism of neurosecretory granules during neurohormone release, and the blood perfusion of the hypophysis.
Antigen Retrieval Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Shi Shan-Rong , Shi Yan , Taylor Clive R.
Published: August 2011

As a review for the 20th anniversary of publishing the antigen retrieval (AR) technique in this journal, the authors intend briefly to summarize developments in AR-immunohistochemistry (IHC)–based research and diagnostics, with particular emphasis on current challenges and future research directions. Over the past 20 years, the efforts of many different investigators have coalesced in extending the AR approach to all areas of anatomic pathology diagnosis and research and further have led to AR-based protein extraction techniques and tissue-based proteomics. As a result, formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) archival tissue collections are now seen as a literal treasure of materials for clinical and translational research to an extent unimaginable just two decades ago. Further research in AR-IHC is likely to focus on tissue proteomics, developing a more efficient protocol for protein extraction from FFPE tissue based on the AR principle, and combining the proteomics approach with AR-IHC to establish a practical, sophisticated platform for identifying and using biomarkers in personalized medicine.
Qualitätsbewertung von Informationsressourcen am Beispiel der Quellenbewertung des Begriffes „Zwerggecko“
Authors: Kappe Christoph , Manto Tino Lo , Roth Sascha , Gloystein Heide
Published: August 2011

Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, das erlernte theoretische Wissen einer Lehrveranstaltung zur „Qualitätsbewertung von Informationsressourcen“ anhand einer konkreten Aufgabenstellung in die Praxis umzusetzen. Im Detail geht es darum, eine spezielle Anfrage an verschiedene Informationsressourcen zu richten und die Resultate anhand eines einheitlichen Kriterienrasters zu beurteilen und zu vergleichen. Die Ressourcen kommen dabei aus den Bereichen Fachinformation/Fachdatenbanken, Internet (passive Angebote) und Web 2.0 (interaktive Angebote). Als Bewertungskriterien dienen u.a. die Richtigkeit, Vollständigkeit und Relevanz der Angebote, aber auch deren Aufbereitung, Aktualität und der Entstehungsprozess gerade im Zeitalter des Web 2.0. Die Ergebnisse zeigen deutliche Abweichungen der Ressourcen untereinander und legen daher nahe, einen Mix der verschiedenartigen Quellen bei der Lösung der Aufgabenstellung anzuwenden.
Tack and shear strength of hybrid adhesive systems made of phenol-formaldehyde, dextrin and fish glue, and acrylic pressure-sensitive adhesive
Authors: Sahaf Amir , Englund Karl , Laborie Marie-Pierre G.
Published: August 2011

The development of adhesives that have good initial adhesion (tack) that provides improved mat integrity during shape-forming of wood composites has been the subject of recent research. Hybrid adhesives were made based on thermosetting phenol-formaldehyde (PF), to which three tacky adhesives were added: high tack fish glue (FG), dextrin glue (DX) and a commercial acrylic, pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA). Tacky adhesives were blended with PF at weight levels of 25%, 50% and 75%. The time-dependent tack development of the resulting hybrid adhesives was evaluated by means of a texture analyzer. The bond strength of adhesives was measured after curing by shear block test. PF/DX blends exhibited the highest tack during longer open times, while blends of PF and FG had low tack during shorter times. PF/PSA blends lost their bond strength completely after being heated at the curing temperature of PF. PF/FG blends did not show a significant decrease in bond strength compared to pure PF. The addition of DX had no effect on shear strength at ratios <75%.
Furfuryl alcohol impregnation for improved plasticization and fixation during the densification of wood
Authors: Pfriem Alexander , Dietrich Tobias , Buchelt Beate
Published: August 2011

The densification of wood leads to better mechanical properties, e.g., an increased hardness and dimensional stability. However, densified or shaped wood in contact with water springs back into its original shape without fixation. Hence, the aim of this study was the development of a combined densification and fixation procedure. Beech wood samples (Fagus sylvatica L.) were impregnated with a solution consisting of furfuryl alcohol and maleic anhydride. The compression of these impregnated samples to approximately 30% followed by a curing process in a heating press resulted in a significant increase of hardness and dimensional stability. The spring-back-effect was clearly reduced by the in situ polymerization of the furfuryl alcohol solution to furan resins.
Identification and functional characterization of a sesquiterpene synthase gene from Eleutherococcus trifoliatus
Authors: Wen Chi-Hsiang , Tseng Yen-Hsueh , Chu Fang-Hua
Published: August 2011

In the present study, one sesquiterpene synthase gene in Eleutherococcus
trifoliatus was identified and characterized. Full-length cDNA was obtained from stems. It contained an open reading frame of 1671 bp (EtCop) with a predicted molecular mass of 64.5 kDa. The amino acid sequence of EtCop contained the common terpene synthase family motifs RR(x)8W, RxR and DDxxD. The recombinant protein from Escherichia coli was incubated with farnesyl diphosphate in order to identify the function of EtCop. The product of EtCop could be identified as an α-copaene by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis and comparison with an authentic standard.
Long-Term Hydrostatic Strength and Design of Thermoplastic Piping Compounds
Authors: Boros Stephen
Published: August 2011

There has been tremendous growth in the use of thermoplastic piping systems since their introduction more than 50 years ago. They bring a host of benefits in the form of long-term performance and reliability, ease of installation, and not being prone to corrosion and tuberculation. It was clear early on that thermoplastics could not be evaluated in the same way metallic components would be in similar applications. However, over time the understanding of these materials has matured, and as this understanding continues to develop we must not lose sight of the evaluation methodologies used for establishing the long-term hydrostatic strength of these compounds, and how that strength has been successfully used in designing these systems. This paper will give an overview of the basic methodology used to establish the long-term hydrostatic strength of thermoplastic compounds, and how that strength is used for engineering design in a safe and reliable manner.
RBP4: a controversial adipokine
Authors: Kotnik Primoz , Fischer-Posovszky Pamela , Wabitsch Martin
Published: August 2011

Adipose tissue is an endocrine organ secreting biologically active factors called adipokines that act on both local and distant tissues. Adipokines have an important role in the development of obesity-related comorbidities not only in adults but also in children and adolescents. Retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) is a recently identified adipokine suggested to link obesity with its comorbidities, especially insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes (T2D), and certain components of the metabolic syndrome. However, data, especially resulting from the clinical studies, are conflicting. In this review, we summarize up-to-date knowledge on RBP4's role in obesity, development of insulin resistance, and T2D. Special attention is given to studies on children and adolescents. We also discuss the role of possible confounding factors that should be taken into account when critically evaluating published studies or planning new studies on this exciting adipokine.
Edentulism and shortened dental arch in Brazilian elderly from the National Survey of Oral Health 2003
Authors: Ribeiro Marco Túlio Freitas , Rosa Marco Aurélio Camargo da , Lima Rosa Maria Natal de , Vargas Andréa Maria Duarte , Haddad João Paulo Amaral , Ferreira e Ferreira Efigênia
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE: To describe the distribution of edentulism and estimate the prevalence of functional dentition and shortened dental arch among elderly population. METHODS: A population-based epidemiological study was carried out with a sample of 5,349 respondents aged 65 to 74 years obtained from the 2002 and 2003 Brazilian Ministry of Health/Division of Oral Health survey database. The following variables were studied: gender; macroregion of residence; missing teeth; percentage that met the World Health Organization goal for oral health in the age group 65 to 74 years (50% having at least 20 natural teeth); presence of shortened dental arch; number of posterior occluding pairs of teeth. The Chi-square test assessed the association between categorical variables. The Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests were used to assess differences of mean between number of posterior occluding pairs teeth, macro-region and gender. RESULTS: The elderly population had an average of 5.49 teeth (SD: 7.93) with a median of 0. The proportion of completely edentulous respondents was 54.7%. Complete edentulism was 18.2% in the upper arch and 1.9% in the lower arch. The World Health Organization goal was achieved in 10% of all respondents studied. However, only 2.7% had acceptable masticatory function and aesthetics (having at least shortened dental arch) and a mean number of posterior occluding pairs of 6.94 (SD=2.97). There were significant differences of the percentage of respondents that met the World Health Organization goal and presence of shortened dental arch between men and women. There were differences in shortened dental arch between macroregions. CONCLUSIONS: The Brazilian epidemiological oral health survey showed high rate of edentulism and low rate of shortened dental arch in the elderly population studied, thus suggesting significant functional and aesthetic impairment in all Brazilian macroregions especially among women.
Efeito de ação educativa participativa no conhecimento de professores do ensino básico sobre malária
Authors: Suárez-Mutis Martha Cecilia , Coura José Rodrigues , Massara Cristiano Lara , Schall Virginia Torres
Published: August 2011

OBJETIVO: Descrever uma estratégia educativa participativa de construção de conhecimentos relacionados à malária entre professores em um município altamente endêmico. MÉTODOS: Foi feito um estudo observacional. Um curso de 40 horas foi realizado sob enfoque multidisciplinar e problematizador para 46 professores, prioritariamente da área rural, no município de Barcelos, AM, em 2008. O processo educativo participativo incluiu oficinas e aulas práticas. Para investigar os conhecimentos, aplicou-se um questionário previamente validado, antes e após o curso, avaliado por abordagens quantitativa e qualitativa usando a análise temática para respostas abertas. RESULTADOS: Previamente ao curso, os professores tinham pouca informação sobre os mecanismos de transmissão, meios de prevenção e a associação da malária aos seus vetores, bem como conceitos restritos sobre saúde. Após o curso, não somente aumentou o conhecimento dos professores sobre a malária como também emergiram reflexões sobre o papel do professor na sociedade. CONCLUSÕES: O efeito da ação educativa na construção de um saber contextualizado sobre malária e saúde indica o potencial da estratégia desenvolvida. Processos de educação permanente são necessários à sustentabilidade dos novos saberes e práticas, orientados pela promoção da saúde.
Detección precoz de cáncer de cérvix según los discursos de las matronas de atención primaria en Segovia, España
Authors: Otero Laura , Sanz Belén , Blasco Teresa
Published: August 2011

OBJETIVO: Analizar los discursos de las matronas de atención primaria sobre el acceso y la utilización del Programa Preventivo de Cáncer de Cérvix. PROCEDIMIENTOS METODOLÓGICOS: Se desarrolló un estudio cualitativo en un área de baja densidad poblacional, Segovia, España, que cuenta con un alto porcentaje de población rural, entre 2008 y 2009. Se utilizó como técnica la entrevista semi-estructurada. Se realizaron diez entrevistas a las matronas de atención primaria de las 16 Zonas Básicas de Salud. El análisis de la información se basó en las propuestas de la Teoría Fundamentada. ANÁLISIS DE RESULTADOS: El acceso y utilización del Programa Preventivo de Cáncer de Cérvix se relaciona con la utilización de la consulta de la matrona por las mujeres, sus vivencias de los exámenes de citología vaginal y su percepción de riesgo a padecer un cáncer de cuello uterino. La barrera percibida es la distancia para acceder a la consulta de la matrona, y para las mujeres inmigrantes, además son barreras la posibilidad de no disponer de tarjeta sanitaria y desconocer la existencia del Programa. La exclusión social es también considerada una barrera de acceso y utilización. Se identificó como el principal facilitador, la recomendación de los médicos de familia de participar en el Programa. CONCLUSIONES: Las matronas perciben desigualdades de acceso y utilización del Programa Preventivo de Cáncer de Cérvix que se relacionan tanto con características individuales de las mujeres, como con el medio geográfico donde viven y con la propia estructura del Programa. Hay situaciones de vulneración de la equidad en colectivos de mujeres poco representadas a nivel encuestal, como las mujeres inmigrantes y las que residen en zonas rurales.
Levantamento taxonômico de desmídias (Chlorophyta) do lago Novo (Amapá, Brasil): gêneros Staurastrum, Staurodesmus e Xanthidium
Authors: Souza Karla Ferreira , Melo Sergio
Published: August 2011

Neste estudo são descritas e ilustradas as espécies de três gêneros de desmídias (Staurastrum, Staurodesmus e Xanthidium) do lago Novo, um ambiente localizado na região dos lagos, na planície costeira do Estado do Amapá. Um total de 35 táxons foi registrado, sendo 23 do gênero Staurastrum, sete do gênero Staurodesmus e cinco do gênero Xanthidium. Todos os táxons apresentados neste trabalho constituem primeira citação para o estado do Amapá.
Relação entre diferentes espécies de formigas e a mirmecófita Cordia nodosa Lamarck (Boraginaceae) em áreas de mata ripária na Amazônia mato-grossense
Authors: Izzo Thiago Junqueira , Peneti-Benelli Adarilda
Published: August 2011

Os benefícios obtidos por um organismo em uma associação mutualística podem variar em função de fatores ambientais, bem como entre as diferentes espécies que podem estar associadas. Neste trabalho demonstramos que quatro espécies de formigas, Crematogaster brasiliensis, Allomerus octoarticulatus e duas não identificadas do gênero Azteca podem ser encontradas associadas à mirmecófita Cordia nodosa em florestas ripárias sul-amazônicas. Essa composição de espécies de formigas é mais similar a encontrada na Amazônia Andina do que aquela da Amazônia Central brasileira. A colonização por formigas parece ser determinante, pois diminuiu a herbivoria e, consequentemente, aumentou a probabilidade de C. nodosa produzir frutos. Adicionalmente, mesmo não havendo diferença na herbivoria entre plantas colonizadas pelas diferentes espécies de formigas, a probabilidade de uma planta colonizada por formigas do gênero Allomerus produzir frutos é menor do que quando colonizadas pelas outras espécies de formigas. Esse estudo demonstra a dependência de C. nodosa pela colonização de formigas para sua reprodução. Contudo, conforme outros estudos realizados em outras áreas da Amazônia demonstram, nossos resultados também sugerem que Allomerus pode estar castrando as plantas hospedeiras, agindo como parasita em toda a sua distribuição geográfica.
Biologia reprodutiva de Cattleya eldorado, uma espécie de Orchidaceae das campinas amazônicas
Authors: Storti Eliana Fernandez , Braga Pedro Ivo Soares , Storti Filho Atilio
Published: August 2011

As Orchidaceae são muito apreciadas por suas flores exóticas e exuberantes. É a maior família de plantas apresentando mais de 24000 espécies, o que denota uma alta diversidade de formas e adaptações a diferentes ambientes, como também para atração, engano e manipulação de visitantes na realização da polinização cruzada. Cattleya eldorado ocorre em áreas de campinas, que são formações vegetais típicas da região amazônica, que se encontram sob forte ação antrópica. Este trabalho tem como um de seus principais objetivos conhecer parte dos processos biológicos de C. eldorado fornecendo subsídios para conservá-la e manejá-la em seu habitat natural. Este estudo foi desenvolvido na Reserva Biológica de Campina, de 2000 a 2006, durante a sua floração. C. eldorado é uma espécie epifítica que apresenta a síndrome de melitofilia, estando adaptada ao seu polinizador, a abelha Eulaema mocsaryi, que reconhece suas flores pelo odor e pelo estímulo visual através de sua coloração e reflexão de luz ultravioleta. C. eldorado é uma espécie autocompatível, embora necessite de um agente polinizador para a transferência do polinário até sua deposição na cavidade estigmática da flor.
Estabelecimento e multiplicação in vitro de brotos no processo de micropropagação de cultivares de bananeira (Musa spp.)
Authors: Oliveira Hérica Santos de , Lemos Oriel Filgueira de , Miranda Vicente Savonitti , Moura Hellen Cristina da Paixão , Campelo Meiciane Ferreira , Santos Lana Roberta Reis dos
Published: August 2011

A banana (Musa spp.) é uma das frutas mais consumidas no mundo, e amplamente cultivada no Brasil, porém doenças como as sigatokas, negra e amarela, vêm reduzindo a sua produção. A disponibilização imediata de novas cultivares resistentes às principais doenças é limitada pela propagação convencional. A micropropagação é uma alternativa para a produção de mudas com qualidade fitossanitária e vegetativa, mas apresenta fatores que dificultam sua aplicação como a contaminação por fungos e bactérias, associada à oxidação dos explantes. O objetivo desse trabalho foi adaptar e/ou otimizar as etapas do processo de micropropagação para diferentes cultivares de bananeira, por meio do controle de oxidação, contaminação, e multiplicação de brotos, sendo utilizadas as cultivares Caipira (AAA), BRS Caprichosa (AAAB), Pacovan Ken (AAAB), Preciosa (AAAB), PV 03-76 (AAAB), Thap Maeo (AAB). No estudo foram utilizados o antibiótico sulfato de estreptomicina e o fungicida Opera® (BASF) visando reduzir a contaminação in vitro provocada por bactérias e fungos, além do anti-oxidante PVP (polivinilpirrolidona) para controlar a oxidação. Houve redução da contaminação com uso do sulfato de estreptomicina à concentração de 100 mg L-1 e da oxidação com PVP a 4 g L-1. Na fase de multiplicação de brotos, as cultivares apresentaram médias que variaram de 1,90 a 4,75 brotos/explante. A cultivar caipira (AAA) destacou-se das demais com a maior taxa de multiplicação de brotos após três subcultivos, média de 41,50 brotos por rizoma.
Aplicação de baixas doses de radiação ionizante no fruto brasileiro tucumã (Astrocarium vulgare Mart.)
Authors: Lima Antonio Luís dos Santos , Lima Keila dos Santos Cople , Gody Ronoel Luiz de Oliveira , Araújo Leandro Moreira , Pacheco Sidney
Published: August 2011

O tucumã (Astrocaryum vulgare Mart.) é um fruto nativo da Amazônia, de ocorrência principal no estado do Pará, mas também encontrado nos estados do nordeste e do centro-oeste brasileiro. O tucumã é considerado como uma excelente fonte de carotenóides com maior concentração em β-caroteno, precursor da vitamina A, e além dos carotenóides, também é importante fonte de vitamina B2 (riboflavina). Por este motivo, o presente trabalho objetivou analisar os efeitos da irradiação gama sobre o valor nutricional do tucumã. Os frutos de tucumã foram irradiados com as doses de 0,5, 1,0 e 2,0 kGy num irradiador com fonte de césio 137. Foram determinados os teores de carotenóides totais por espectrofotometria. As análises de α e β-caroteno, tiamina, riboflavina foram realizadas por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE). Foi detectado que o β-caroteno representa 80% dos carotenóides totais e que com uma dose de 2 kGy ocorreram as maiores reduções de β-caroteno, cerca de 7,5% em relação ao controle. Os frutos também apresentaram altos teores de riboflavina de 0,183 a 0,222 μg 100 g-1 e mantiveram a estabilidade após o processo de radiação gama, no entanto, os teores de tiamina foram baixos de 0,050 a 0,033 μg 100 g-1, e os frutos irradiados na dose de 2 kGy apresentaram reduções significativas de tiamina, cerca de 34% em relação ao controle.
Estudo etnofarmacognóstico da saracuramirá (Ampelozizyphus amazonicus Ducke), uma planta medicinal usada por comunidades quilombolas do Município de Oriximiná-PA, Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Danilo Ribeiro de , Costa André Luiz Maiocchi Alves , Leitão Gilda Guimarães , Castro Newton Gonçalves , Santos Joaquim Pereira dos , Leitão Suzana Guimarães
Published: August 2011

Um levantamento etnobotânico realizado em comunidades quilombolas de Oriximiná, Pará, destacou a saracuramirá (SAR), Ampelozizyphus amazonicus Ducke, com vasto uso popular no tratamento da malária, como tônica e depurativa. Por este motivo, o presente trabalho objetivou realizar um estudo etnofarmacognóstico da SAR nas respectivas comunidades. Por meio de uma análise etnobotânica quantitativa, foi verificado que SAR apresentou-se dentre as 10 espécies mais versáteis pela elevada importância relativa (1,3), dentre as cinco espécies com maior importância cultural pelo elevado índice de saliência (0,311) e a espécie com maior concordância de uso principal para malária (85,7%). Uma análise do índice de espuma e do índice de hemólise para SAR demonstra a presença de saponinas com elevado índice de espuma (833) e uma baixa atividade hemolítica (CH50 2,6 mg mL-1). Para realizar uma análise das agliconas das saponinas de SAR, a bebida preparada pelo método tradicional quilombola (BMT) foi hidrolisada e, após reação com diazometano, foi analisada por cromatografia gasosa. Dois sinais majoritários foram caracterizados por espectrometria de massas, um referente a um triterpeno de esqueleto damarânico, característico das saponinas da SAR, e outro referente ao éster metílico do ácido betulínico. Partindo das informações de uso popular da SAR, foi avaliada in vitro a atividade inibidora da acetilcolinesterase. Apesar de BMT não ter mostrado atividade neste ensaio, é possível supor que as indicações de uso desta planta pelos quilombolas como fortificante e contra malária podem estar relacionadas a uma possível atividade adaptógena e imunoestimulante, dada à presença das saponinas e do ácido betulínico em BMT.
Estudo químico de duas plantas medicinais da amazônia: Philodendron scabrum k. Krause (araceae) e Vatairea guianensis aubl. (fabaceae)
Authors: Ottobelli Ivonei , Facundo Valdir Alves , Zuliani Juliana , Luz Cleber Calado , Brasil Henrique Otávio Braga , Militão Júlio Sanches Linhares Teixeira , Braz-Filho Raimundo
Published: August 2011

Este trabalho relata o estudo químico de duas plantas medicinais da Amazônia: Philodendron scabrum K. krause (Araceae) e Vatairea guianensis Aubl. (Fabaceae). As composições dos óleos essenciais dos cipós de P. scabrum e dos frutos de V. guianensis, respectivamente, foram analisadas em CG-DIC e CG-EM. Os constituintes majoritários dos cipós de P. scabrum foram óxido de cariofileno (19,42%), α-copaeno (16,08%) e β-bisaboleno (10,01%); e nos frutos de V. guianensis foram o ácido (9Z)-octadecenoico (24,95%) e o ácido docosahexaenoico (24,17%). β-sitosterol e o alquilresorcinol 1-hexadecanoil-2,6-dihidroxibenzeno foram isolados do extrato etanólico dos cipós de P. scabrum; e do extrato etanólico dos frutos de V. guianensis, foram isoladas as antraquinonas crisofanol e fisciona. As determinações estruturais foram baseadas em dados de RMN de ¹H e 13C. RMN, uni e bidimensional e comparação com dados da literatura.