bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sri Aurobindo and his Ashram, 1910–2010
Authors: Heehs Peter
Published: July 2015

The Sri Aurobindo Ashram was founded by Sri Aurobindo Ghose and Mirra Alfassa as a place for individuals to practice yoga in a community setting. Some observers regard the ashram as the center of a religious movement, but Aurobindo said that any attempt to base a movement on his teachings would end in failure. Nevertheless, some of his followers who view themselves as part of a movement use mass mobilization techniques, litigation and political lobbying to advance their agenda, which includes the dismissal of current ashram trustees and amendment of the ashram’s trust deed. In this article, I examine Aurobindo’s ideas on the relationship between individual and community, and I sketch the history of the ashram with reference to these ideas. As a member of the ashram, I approach this study from a hybrid insider/outsider stance.
Tracking the Tulpa
Authors: Mikles Natasha L. , Laycock Joseph P.
Published: July 2015

Since the 1970s, tulpas have been a feature of Western paranormal lore. In contemporary paranormal discourse, a tulpa is a being that begins in the imagination but acquires a tangible reality and sentience. Tulpas are created either through a deliberate act of individual will or unintentionally from the thoughts of numerous people. The tulpa was first described by Alexandra David-Néel (1868–1969) in Magic and Mystery in Tibet (1929) and is still regarded as a Tibetan concept. However, the idea of the tulpa is more indebted to Theosophy than to Tibetan Buddhism. This article explores the murky origins of the tulpa to show how the concept emerged from a dialogue between East and West in which Theosophical metaphysics were combined with terms adapted from Tibetan Buddhism.
Lowered cutoff of lymph node fine-needle aspiration thyroglobulin in thyroid cancer patients with serum anti-thyroglobulin antibody
Authors: Jo Kwanhoon , Kim Min-Hee , Lim Yejee , Jung So-Lyung , Bae Ja-Seong , Jung Chan-Kwon , Kang Moo-Il , Cha Bong-Yun , Lim Dong-Jun
Published: July 2015

Objective

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) and measurement of thyroglobulin (Tg) in needle washout (FNA-Tg) are recommended for the diagnosis of metastatic or recurrent lymph nodes (LNs) in differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). However, the effect of serum Tg antibody (TgAb) on FNA-Tg levels still remains unclear in the preoperative setting. We analyze the interference of serum TgAb on FNA-Tg levels as proof of concept in the diagnostic advantage of serum TgAb combined with FNA-Tg.

Subjects and methods

A total of 370 suspicious cervical LNs from 273 patients with DTC were included. The primary tumor was confirmed as DTC on preoperative pathology in all patients. We performed FNA-Tg measurement and FNAC on suspicious LNs and evaluated the diagnostic performance of FNAC and FNA-Tg according to TgAb status. Final diagnoses were confirmed by histological examination of excised specimens or by follow-up ultrasonography for at least 6 months.

Results

Data from 273 subjects with suspicious 370 LNs were evaluated. Fifty-five LNs (14.9%) were from TgAb+ positive serum TgAb (TgAb+) patients. Serum Tg and FNA-Tg levels were significantly lower in patients with TgAb+ than in those with TgAb-negative (TgAb−). Final pathology confirmed 109 LNs (29.5%) asmalignant. Diagnostic performance of FNA-Tg at the same cutoff level was lower in the TgAb+ than TgAb− group. FNA-Tg cutoff levels determined by ROC curve were lower in the TgAb+ group.

Conclusion

The results suggested that the cutoff value of FNA-Tg should be lowered in suspicious LN before thyroidectomy in thyroid cancer patients with TgAb.
60 YEARS OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY: Glucocorticoid dynamics: insights from mathematical, experimental and clinical studies
Authors: Spiga Francesca , Walker Jamie J , Gupta Rita , Terry John R , Lightman Stafford L
Published: July 2015

A pulsatile pattern of secretion is a characteristic of many hormonal systems, including the glucocorticoid-producing hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. Despite recent evidence supporting its importance for behavioral, neuroendocrine and transcriptional effects of glucocorticoids, there has been a paucity of information regarding the origin of glucocorticoid pulsatility. In this review we discuss the mechanisms regulating pulsatile dynamics of the HPA axis, and how these dynamics become disrupted in disease. Our recent mathematical, experimental and clinical studies show that glucocorticoid pulsatility can be generated and maintained by dynamic processes at the level of the pituitary–adrenal axis, and that an intra-adrenal negative feedback may contribute to these dynamics.
60 YEARS OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY: Celebrating the brain's other output–input system and the monograph that defined neuroendocrinology
Authors: Coen Clive W
Published: July 2015

The brain's unimaginably complex operations are expressed in just two types of output: muscle activity and hormone release. These are the means by which the brain acts beyond its bony casing. Muscle-mediated actions (such as speaking, writing, pupillary reflexes) send signals to the outside world that may convey thoughts, emotions or evidence of neurological disorder. The outputs of the brain as a hormone secreting gland are usually less evident. Their discovery required several paradigm shifts in our understanding of anatomy. The first occurred in 1655. Exactly 300 years later, Geoffrey Harris' monographNeural control of the pituitary glandlaunched the scientific discipline that is now known as neuroendocrinology. His hypotheses have stood the test of time to a remarkable degree. A key part of his vision concerned the two-way ‘interplay between the central nervous system and endocrine glands’. Over the past 60 years, the importance of this reciprocity and the degree to which cerebral functions are influenced by the endocrine environment have become increasingly clear.
Beyond 2/3 and 1/3: The Complex Signatures of Sex-Biased Admixture on the X Chromosome
Authors: Goldberg Amy , Rosenberg Noah A
Published: July 2015

Sex-biased demography, in which parameters governing migration and population size differ between females and males, has been studied through comparisons of X chromosomes, which are inherited sex-specifically, and autosomes, which are not. A common form of sex bias in humans is sex-biased admixture, in which at least one of the source populations differs in its proportions of females and males contributing to an admixed population. Studies of sex-biased admixture often examine the mean ancestry for markers on the X chromosome in relation to the autosomes. A simple framework noting that in a population with equally many females and males, two-thirds of X chromosomes appear in females, suggests that the mean X-chromosomal admixture fraction is a linear combination of female and male admixture parameters, with coefficients 2/3 and 1/3, respectively. Extending a mechanistic admixture model to accommodate the X chromosome, we demonstrate that this prediction is not generally true in admixture models, although it holds in the limit for an admixture process occurring as a single event. For a model with constant ongoing admixture, we determine the mean X-chromosomal admixture, comparing admixture on female and male X chromosomes to corresponding autosomal values. Surprisingly, in reanalyzing African-American genetic data to estimate sex-specific contributions from African and European sources, we find that the range of contributions compatible with the excess African ancestry on the X chromosome compared to autosomes has a wide spread, permitting scenarios either without male-biased contributions from Europe or without female-biased contributions from Africa.
The impact of mineral separation procedure on thermoluminescence analysis of non-irradiated dried fish and shellfish
Authors: Kim B. K. , Shahbaz H. M. , Akram K. , Kim C. T. , Ahn J. J. , Kwon J. H.
Published: July 2015

This study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of different mineral separation procedures to validate the EN1788 (2001) European Union standard protocol for better identification of irradiated fish and shellfish. The silicate minerals were isolated with physical density separation method from two types of non-irradiated freeze-dried fish and shellfish that included Pacific saury (Cololabis saira), mackerel (Scomber japonicus), shrimp (Penaeidae metapenaeus), and mussel (Mytilus coruscus). Radiation-specific thermoluminescence (TL) peaks (glow curve 1) were observed between 150–250 °C. The peaks are typical for the irradiated food; despite the samples being not irradiated. Apparently it showed that the isolated minerals were contaminated with organic materials such as bone, etc. Acid-hydrolysis digestion was employed to remove the possible contaminants. The minerals obtained through alternative pre-treatment showed no TL curves in radiation specific temperature range. Moreover, acid hydrolysis extraction resulted in producing higher mineral yields and lower background luminescence. Results were also confirmed by calculating TL ratios (glow curve 1/glow curve 2) to confirm the irradiation history of samples. Furthermore, different time and temperature treatments on TL intensity of irradiated standard quartz (SiO2) minerals showed that the acid-hydrolysis can be adjusted to 50 °C and 3 h for better luminescence determinations.
Determination of pesticide multi-residues in green tea using a modified QuEChERS extraction and liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry technique
Authors: Tran S. C. , Le H. Th. , Thai-Nguyen T. H.
Published: July 2015

A modified QuEChERS method was developed and validated for determination of pesticide multi-residues in green tea by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Lead acetate was first time used together with primary secondary amine and graphite carbon black to eliminate tannin, caffeine, and other pigments in tea and thus reduced the matrix effects. The method was compared to the original QuEChERS method as well as A.O.A.C. QuEChERS method. For accurate quantification, the matrix matched calibration technique was used. The method showed good performance in the concentration range from 0.01 to 1 mg kg–1. All pesticides could be quantified at and lower than 0.01 mg kg–1. Recoveries were from 70 to 120% and repeatabilities were <15% RSD depending on the compounds.
Microbiological quality assessment for oysters produced and traded in Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Montanhini M. T. M. , Montanhini Neto R.
Published: July 2015

Oysters are filter-feeding bivalve molluscs that are associated with several foodborne illnesses, because they accumulate biotic and abiotic contaminants dispersed in the water. The state of Paraná in southern Brazil is distinguished by a high consumption of oysters, typically eaten raw, and this habit may present a risk to consumer health if the product is contaminated with pathogenic bacteria. This study intends to evaluate the microbiological quality of oysters produced and traded in Paraná, directly examining the localities of cultivation and trading of the product. The major sites for the trading of oysters in the state were identified and 52 dozen oysters (624 animals) were collected from these places, between April and December, 2013. The samples were subjected to analyses for total coliforms, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella spp. No samples had results of microbial contamination above the limits established by Brazilian legislation. This study indicated that the microbiological quality of the oysters produced and traded in the state of Paraná is acceptable.
Optimization of media for antimicrobial compounds production by Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Grahovac J. A. , Rončević Z. Z. , Tadijan I. Ž. , Jokić A. I. , Dodić J. M.
Published: July 2015

Bacillus subtilis is one of the most important producers of diverse antimicrobial compounds. This bacterium grows and produces antibiotics on different substrates. The increase of the antibiotics yield can be achieved by changing the conditions of cultivation and the composition of the culture media. In this study, response surface methodology was used for optimization of glycerol, sodium nitrite, and phosphate content in media for production of antibiotics effective against Staphylococcus aureus. As biosynthesis strain Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633 was used. The developed model predicts that the maximum inhibition zone radius (38.08 mm) against Staphylococcus aureus and minimal amount of residual nutrients (glycerol 1.75 g l−1, nitrogen 0.21 g l−1, phosphorus 0.18 g l−1) are achieved, when the initial content of glycerol, sodium nitrite, and phosphate are 49.99 g l−1, 1.00 g l−1, and 5.00 g l−1, respectively.
Evaluation of cell disruption for partial isolation of intracellular pyruvate decarboxylase enzyme by silver nanoparticles method
Authors: Tangtua J. , Techapun C. , Pratanaphon R. , Kuntiya A. , Sanguanchaipaiwong V. , Chaiyaso T. , Hanmuangjai P. , Seesuriyachan P. , Leksawasdi N. , Leksawasdi N.
Published: July 2015

Candida tropicalis TISTR 5350 was used in the comparison of seven concentration levels of silver nanoparticles (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 μg ml–1) for cell disruption methods. The optimized cell disruption strategy was selected based on the optimal protein yield and biological activity. The maximum volumetric and specific pyruvate decarboxylase (PDC, EC 4.1.1.1) activities (0.53±0.05 U ml–1 and 0.17±0.02 U mg–1 protein, respectively) were observed at 15 μg ml–1 silver nanoparticles. The silver nanoparticle concentration level of 15 μg ml–1 was investigated further by comparing the reaction mixtures at different time intervals of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 min. The result showed that the highest specific PDC activity of 0.39±0.01 U mg–1 protein was obtained from mixing for 3 min. This was not significantly different (P≤0.05) from other mixing time intervals.
Comparison of different methods of antioxidant activity evaluation of green and roast C. Arabica and C. Robusta coffee beans
Authors: Pokorná J. , Venskutonis P. R. , Kraujalyte V. , Kraujalis P. , Dvořák P. , Tremlová B. , Kopřiva V. , Ošťádalová M.
Published: July 2015

Coffee beans contain a large amount of antioxidants, which are subjected to various changes during roasting. In this study, antioxidant potential of raw and roasted to different degree (light, medium, dark) C. arabica and C. robusta coffee beans was evaluated by the four antioxidant assay methods, TPC, FRAP, TEAC, and DPPH˙.

The obtained results revealed significant differences between the coffee types, roasting degree, and antioxidant activity assessment methods. FRAP and TPC appeared to be the most appropriate methods for revealing the differences in antioxidant potential of different coffee types and the effects of roasting. The results obtained by these methods were in good correlation. ABTS and DPPH? methods are not enough sensitive for the determination of roasting degrees.

In general, based on statistical data evaluation, antioxidant activity is more dependent on the coffee type than on the degree of roasting, however, the selection of analytical method may also be significant.
Quality control of maca-containing (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) dietary supplements
Authors: Hajdu Zs. , Lorántfy L. , Jedlinszki N. , Boros K. , Hohmann J. , Csupor D.
Published: July 2015

The radish-like hypocotyls of Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp., Brassicaceae) are widely consumed as common vegetable in the Andean highlands. It is considered as healthy food, rich in carbohydrates and protein, a herbal medicine with a general invigorating reputation and fertility and sexual performance enhancer. The latter is the most popular contemporary application of the plant in Europe. The number and variety of industrial products on the market is increasing. Here we report the development of a simple and reliable analytical protocol for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of maca content of preparations and for the detection of synthetic phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Fourteen products were analysed by the method based on TLC and HPLC-DAD analysis developed by us. Our experiments revealed that beside good-quality products, the majority of the multicomponent preparations did not contain the declared herbal component or the quantity of the measured macamide was very low. Furthermore, one preparation is adulterated with a synthetic phosphodiesterase inhibitor. The presented method is suitable for quality control of L. meyenii products.
Possible measures of asymmetry and redundancy in collocations
Authors: Nelson Robert
Published: July 2015

It has long been recognized that developing measures of the internal structure of collocations is an important goal (Sinclair, 1991). Recently, Gries’ (2013) presented a measure that captures the asymmetric nature of conditional probabilities in collocations. This paper intends to contribute to the discussion by introducing measures of asymmetry and redundancy that may meet the needs of some researchers. Two asymmetry measures are described. The first captures only frequency asymmetry while the second is an asymmetric version of the mutual information measure. A measure of semantic redundancy is also described here. This measure takes a higher value when the fact that two words co occur contains more information than the uncertainty introduced by the occurrence of the individual words.
Clustering first-order co-occurrences as a way to explore semantic heterogeneity
Authors: Bertels Ann , Speelman Dirk
Published: July 2015

This paper addresses the contribution of quantitative analysis and statistical techniques to qualitative semantic analysis, as it discusses the methodological issues for clustering and plotting the most significant first-order co-occurrences of a word as a way to explore its degree of semantic heterogeneity in a technical corpus. Since distributional (dis)similarity reflects semantic (dis)similarity, first-order co-occurrences are clustered with respect to the second and/or third-order co-occurrences they have in common. In this comparative and exploratory study, several experiments are carried out in order to evaluate the impact of various parameters for clustering and in order to find the most reliable configuration of parameters, including association measures, distance measures and lower and upper thresholds. Multidimensional scaling techniques and the visual exploration of semantic proximity between first-order co-occurrences of a node allow us to gain insight into the phenomena of semantic homogeneity and heterogeneity in a technical corpus. As a consequence, we can come to a better understanding of the semantic characteristics of specialized language. However, the methodology for understanding this area is still being implemented and worked out. With the experiments described in this paper, we are contributing to the ongoing methodological analysis of measures and parameters to be used in the field of distributional semantics.
Exploring the translation of animated films
Authors: Darder Laia
Published: July 2015

The visibility of language variation in films has become a challenge to translation for dubbing, and the need arises to understand how the process of translating variation can influence the product in significant ways. By carrying out a quantitative study, we answered questions such as whether the practice is acceptable amongst audiences, or whether some language choices alter the perception of certain characters. We measured the perception of ten opposed personality traits amongst native audiences in English, Spanish and Catalan using a Semantic Differential Scale, and assessed the global impression of characters that had been translated with and without the use of varieties. The results show that characters overall are perceived the same way across languages regardless of whether they use varieties in or outside the mainstream, and conclude that this tool can be used to quantify and compare the same characters across languages.
What do we get from extracting collocations?
Authors: Kormacheva Daria
Published: July 2015

This paper applies linguistic analysis to the results from the automatic extraction of multiword expressions in order to understand whether they are reliable from the theoretical point of view. The nature of the extracted units is discussed and illustrated with examples of Russian prepositions: first classified according to I. Mel’?uk’s theory (1995) and then re-analysed using the notion of constructions. The corpus-driven approach reveals the shortcomings in the prevalent way of describing multiword expressions in terms of strict classes, and the present paper can be thought of as providing a theoretical basis for the development of a new approach to their description.
The length of the dry season may be associated with leaf scleromorphism in cerrado plants
Authors: SOUZA MARCELO C. , FRANCO AUGUSTO C. , HARIDASAN MUNDAYATAN , ROSSATTO DAVI R. , ARAÚJO JANAÍNA F. DE , MORELLATO LEONOR P.C. , HABERMANN GUSTAVO
Published: July 2015

Despite limitations of low fertility and high acidity of the soils, the cerrado flora is the richest amongst savannas. Many cerrado woody species show sclerophyllous leaves, which might be related to the availability of water and nutrients in the soil. To better understand the function and structure of cerrado vegetation within its own variations, we compared two cerrado communities: one in its core region in central Brazil (Brasília, DF) and the other on its southern periphery (Itirapina, SP). We contrasted the length of the dry season, soil fertility rates, leaf concentrations of N, P, K, Ca and Mg and the specific leaf area (SLA) between these communities. The dry season was shorter on the periphery, where the soil was more fertile although more acidic. Plants from the periphery showed higher SLA and higher leaf concentrations of N, P, Ca and Mg. We propose that the higher SLA of plants from the periphery is related to the shorter dry season, which allows better conditions for nutrient uptake.
A science framework (SF) for agricultural sustainability
Authors: AHMED FERDOUS , AL-AMIN ABUL Q. , MASUD MUHAMMAD M. , KARI FATIMAH , MOHAMAD ZEEDA
Published: July 2015

The significance of Science Framework (SF) to date is receiving more acceptances all over the world to address agricultural sustainability. The professional views, however, advocate that the SF known as Mega Science Framework (MSF) in the transitional economies is not converging effectively in many ways for the agricultural sustainability. Specially, MSF in transitional economies is mostly incapable to identify barriers in agricultural research, inadequate to frame policy gaps with the goal of strategizing the desired sustainability in agricultural technology and innovation, inconsistent in finding to identify the inequities, and incompleteness to rebuild decisions. Therefore, this study critically evaluates the components of MSF in transitional economies and appraises the significance, dispute and illegitimate issue to achieve successful sustainable development. A sound and an effective MSF can be developed when there is an inter-linkage within principal components such as of (a) national priorities, (b) specific research on agricultural sustainability, (c) adequate agricultural research and innovation, and (d) alternative policy alteration. This maiden piece of research which is first its kind has been conducted in order to outline the policy direction to have an effective science framework for agricultural sustainability.
A comparative study of nutritional composition and potential use of some underutilized tropical fruits of Arecaceae
Authors: SILVA RAQUEL B. , SILVA-JÚNIOR EDVALDO V. , RODRIGUES LAÍS C. , ANDRADE LAISE H.C. , SILVA SUZENE I. DA , HARAND WOLFGANG , OLIVEIRA ANTONIO F.M.
Published: July 2015

In this study, pulp and kernel of fruits from six Arecaceae species were subjected to proximate analysis, fatty acid composition and total carotenoid content analysis. The species with the highest carbohydrate, lipid and protein values were Ptychosperma macarthurii(70.1 g/100 g in the kernel), Syagrus cearensis(40.6 g/100 g in the kernel), andS. coronata(20.6 g/100 g in the pulp). The ash content ranged from 0.61 to 7.51 g/100 g. Lauric, palmitic, and oleic acids were the major fatty acids identified. The total carotenoid contents and retinol activity equivalents were highest in the Pinanga kuhlii (180.3 µg/g) andAcrocomia intumescens (138.0 µg/g) pulp oils. Retinol activity equivalents varied between the investigated species (456 to 1515 μg RAE/100 g). Native species such as A. intumescens, S. coronata, and S. cearensis are good sources of fresh food for the underserved populations that inhabit poorly developed areas such as the semi-arid region of Brazil. P. macarthurii, an exotic species, is an excellent source of ash and carotenoids, demonstrating its potential both as a food source and as bioactive compounds. Pulp and kernel ofA. intumescens,could be a good alternative feedstock for soap and biodiesel production, respectively.
Anesthetic activity and bio-guided fractionation of the essential oil of Aloysia gratissima (Gillies & Hook.) Tronc. in silver catfish Rhamdia quelen
Authors: BENOVIT SIMONE C. , SILVA LENISE L. , SALBEGO JOSEÂNIA , LORO VANIA L. , MALLMANN CARLOS A. , BALDISSEROTTO BERNARDO , FLORES ERICO M.M. , HEINZMANN BERTA M.
Published: July 2015

This work aimed to determine the efficacy of the essential oil of A. gratissima as anesthetic for silver catfish, and to perform the bio-guided fractionation of essential oil aiming to isolate compounds responsible for the noted effects. Fish were submitted to anesthesia bath with essential oil, its fractions and isolated compounds to determine time of anesthetic induction and recovery. Eugenol (50 mg L-1) was used as positive control. Essential oil of A. gratissima was effective as an anesthetic at concentrations of 300 to 900 mg L-1. Fish presented involuntary muscle contractions during induction and recovery. The bio-guided fractionation of essential oil furnishedE-(-)-pinocamphone, (-)-caryophyllene oxide, (-)-guaiol and (+)-spathulenol. E-(-)-pinocamphone caused the same side effects observed for essential oil. (-)-Caryophyllene oxide, (-)-guaiol and (+)-spathulenol showed only sedative effects at proportional concentrations to those of the constituents in essential oil. (+)-Spathulenol (51.2 mg L-1) promoted deep anesthesia without side effects. A higher concentration of (+)-spathulenol, and lower or absent amounts ofE-(-)-pinocamphone could contribute to increase the activity and safety of the essential oil of A. gratissima. (+)-Spathulenol showed potent sedative and anesthetic activities in silver catfish, and could be considered as a viable compound for the development of a new anesthetic.
Anthranilic acids from isatin: an efficient, versatile and environmentally friendly method
Authors: RIO GABRIEL F. , SILVA BÁRBARA V. , MARTINEZ SABRINA T. , PINTO ANGELO C.
Published: July 2015

This paper describes the preparation of a series of 16 anthranilic acids in yields ranging from 51 to 97%, by treating the isatins with NaOH and H2O2. Independently of the nature of the substituent on the aromatic ring, the reactions were complete in 15 min at room temperature, whereas those of isatins containing a substituent on the nitrogen atom required longer reaction time for completion (45 min) under the same reaction conditions.
Effects of hormonal priming on seed germination of pigeon pea under cadmium stress
Authors: SNEIDERIS LARISSA C. , GAVASSI MARINA A. , CAMPOS MARCELO L. , D'AMICO-DAMIÃO VICTOR , CARVALHO ROGÉRIO F.
Published: July 2015

In this work we investigated whether priming with auxin, cytokinin, gibberellin, abscisic acid and ethylene, alters the physiological responses of seeds of pigeon pea germinated under water and cadmium stress. Seeds treated with water or non-treated seeds were used as control. Although compared to non-treated seeds we found that the hormone treatments improve the germination of pigeon pea under cadmium stress, however, these treatments did not differ from water. However, we also observed a trend of tolerance to the effects of cadmium in the presence of ethylene, suggesting that the use of this hormone may be an efficient method to overcome seed germination under metal stress.
Paleolimnological inferences based on Oligocene ostracods (Crustacea: Ostracoda) from Tremembé Formation, Southeast Brazil
Authors: BERGUE CRISTIANINI T. , MARANHÃO MARIA DA SAUDADE A.S. , FAUTH GERSON
Published: July 2015

Non-marine Oligocene ostracods from Tremembé Formation (Taubaté Basin, Southeast Brazil) are studied for the first time. The study reveals rich assemblages which are probably composed of many new taxa, two of which are described here. The sixteen ostracod species registered are classified in the generaCypretta Vávra, Strandesia Stuhlmann,Potamocypris Brady, Heterocypris Claus,Eucypris Vávra, Herpetocypris Brady and Norman, Cytheridella Daday and LimnocythereBrady. Two new species of the latter are herein proposed: L. mandubi sp. nov. and L. katu sp. nov. The succession of ostracod assemblages along the studied core changes conspicuously in composition, abundance and preservation, and are characterized by the following associations: Herpetocypris-Cytheridella (lower),Limnocythere-Cypretta (middle) andPotamocypris-Heterocypris (upper). It is assumed that these associations represent different ecological phases of the paleolake Taubaté which is in accordance to previous stratigraphic and paleontological studies in the basin. The results from this pioneering taxonomic and paleoecological study on ostracods from Tremembé Formation reinforce the potential of these fossils for paleolimnological researches in Brazilian Cenozoic deposits.
Initial development of the endocarp in Lithraea brasiliensis Marchand (Anacardiaceae): with taxonomic notes
Authors: OLIVEIRA JOÃO M.S. DE , MARIATH JORGE E.A.
Published: July 2015

Investigation into the initial developmental stages of a given structure is fundamental for precise characterization as well as for comparative analysis in relation to other taxa when homologies are established. For the Anacardiaceae family, investigations of the initial development of the pericarp or its basic histological sites, the epicarp, mesocarp and endocarp, are relevant since these regions are of taxonomic and phylogenetic importance. The initial stages of endocarp development in Lithraea brasiliensis were studied using light microscopy. In L. brasiliensis, the fruits are of the drupe type. The endocarp originates exclusively in the epidermis of the locular cavity and is composed of only three strata. The crystalliferous layer, typical in fruits of the Anacardiaceae family, originates in the carpelar mesophyll and runs adjacent to the outermost layer of the endocarp. The endocarp in Lithraea brasiliensis is of the Anacardium type. The results of the present study are important for the identification of theLithraea species that occur in the state of Rio Grande do Sul. In L. molleoides, the crystalliferous layer was shown to originate from the locular epidermis and this developmental aspect enables it to be differentiated from L. brasiliensis and demonstrates that there is variability of endocarp development in Lithraea.
Monitoring studies should consider temporal variability to reveal relations between cyanobacterial abundance and environmental variables
Authors: WOJCIECHOWSKI JULIANA , PADIAL ANDRÉ A.
Published: July 2015

One of the main goals of monitoring cyanobacteria blooms in aquatic environments is to reveal the relationship between cyanobacterial abundance and environmental variables. Studies typically correlate data that were simultaneously sampled. However, samplings occur sparsely over time and may not reveal the short-term responses of cyanobacterial abundance to environmental changes. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that stronger cyanobacteria x environment relationships in monitoring are found when the temporal variability of sampling points is incorporated in the statistical analyses. To this end, we investigated relationships between cyanobacteria and seven environmental variables that were sampled twice yearly for three years across 11 reservoirs, and data from an intensive monitoring in one of these reservoirs. Poor correlations were obtained when correlating data simultaneously sampled. In fact, the 'highly recurrent' role of phosphorus in cyanobacteria blooms is not properly observed in all sampling periods. On the other hand, the strongest correlation values for the total phosphorus x cyanobacteria relationship were observed when we used the variation of sampling points. We have also shown that environment variables better explain cyanobacteria when a time lag is considered. We conclude that, in cyanobacteria monitoring, the best approach to reveal determinants of cyanobacteria blooms is to consider environmental variability.
Reproductive morphology of female Guiana dolphins (Sotalia guianensis)
Authors: BECEGATO ESTELLA Z. , ANDRADE JANAINA P. , GUIMARÃES JULIANA P. , VERGARA-PARENTE JOCIERY E. , MIGLINO MARIA ANGELICA , SILVA FERNANDA M. DE OLIVEIRA E
Published: July 2015

The reproductive morphology of cetaceans is poorly studied and, despite the large number of strandings, reports on this subject are scarce due to access to carcasses mostly in an advanced state of decomposition. The present study aimed to describe histological characteristics of the female genital tract ofSotalia guianensis, in order to assist in future studies on the reproductive biology of these animals. Females of different ages, from stranding events on beaches in northeastern Brazil, were used. Fragments of all organs were collected and processed for light and scanning electron microscopy. Histological analyses showed that these structures were similar to those found in terrestrial mammals, with some peculiarities, such as the presence of differentiated cells in the vulvar subepidermal layer, not described in the literature on cetaceans. Reproductive studies with a morphological description of the female genital organs are extremely important, since they would enable a better understanding of the species reproductive physiology and assist in the development of new strategies for the species conservation.
Advances and new insights in the neuropathogenesis of dengue infection
Authors: Puccioni-Sohler Marzia , Rosadas Carolina
Published: July 2015

Dengue virus (DENV) infects approximately 390 million persons every year in more than 100 countries. Reports of neurological complications are more frequently. The objective of this narrative review is to bring up the advances in the dengue neuropathogenesis. DENV can access the nervous system through blood-brain barrier disturbance mediated by cytokine. The blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier seems to be also involved, considering the presence of the virus in the CSF of patients with neurological manifestations. As for neurotropism, several studies showed the presence of RNA and viral antigens in brain tissue and CSF in humans. In murine model, different virus mutations were associated to neurovirulence. Despite the advances in the dengue neuropathogenesis, it is still necessary to determine a more appropriate animal model and increase the number of cases of autopsy. The detection of neurovirulence markers may contribute to establish a prognosis, the disease control and vaccine development.
Neurobehavioral disorders locked in Alcatraz: case reports on three famous inmates
Authors: Teive Hélio A. G. , Paola Luciano de
Published: July 2015

The Alcatraz prison, with its picturesque surroundings and fascinating life stories of its inmates, has been the subject of a number of films and publications. The authors take a closer look at the biographies of “Al Capone”, Robert “Birdman” Stroud and “Mickey” Cohen. These legendary American mobsters shared not only a history at “The Rock”, but also a history of neuropsychiatric diseases, ranging from neurosyphilis to anti-social, borderline and obsessive-compulsive personality disorders.
Combination of pharmacotherapy and lidocaine analgesic block of the peripheral trigeminal branches for trigeminal neuralgia: a pilot study
Authors: Stani Fabrizio Di , Ojango Christine , Dugoni Demo , Lorenzo Luigi Di , Masala Salvatore , Delfini Roberto , Bruti Gianluca , Simonetti Giovanni , Piovesan Elcio Juliato , Ruggeri Andrea Gennaro
Published: July 2015

Classical trigeminal neuralgia (CTN) is treated predominantly by pharmacotherapy but side effects and unsuccessful occurs. The current study was carried out to evaluate the therapeutic effect of combination of pharmacotherapy and lidocaine block. Thirteen patients with CTN managed with pharmacotherapy were recruited and assigned either to no additional treatment (Group I) or to additional analgesic block (Group II). The primary endpoint was the reduction in the frequency of pain episodes in a month assessed at 30 and 90 days. Comparisons of measurements of pain, general health and depression scales were secondary endpoints. The results from the follow-up visits at 30 and 90 days showed the Group II to have larger reduction in the frequency of pain and exhibited a bigger improvement in the scores of the pain, general health and depression scales. The results from this preliminary study suggest a clinical benefit of the combination of pharmacotherapy and lidocaine block.
Does the side of middle cerebral artery compromise matters in the mortality after thrombolysis in ischemic stroke?
Authors: Ducci Renata Dal-Prá , Lange Marcos Christiano , Moro Carla Heloísa , Harger Rodrigo , Longo Alexandre Luiz , Cabral Norberto Luiz , Germiniani Francisco Manoel Branco , Nóvak Edison Matos , Zétola Viviane de Hiroki Flumignan
Published: July 2015

The impact of the side in middle cerebral artery (MCA) ischemic stroke is not well established. Our aim was to analyze the differences between right (RMCA) and left middle cerebral artery (LMCA) stroke in patients submitted to intravenous thrombolysis and the influence of the affected side in the patient’s mortality after 3 months. Method Patients with MCA ischemic stroke submitted to intravenous thrombolysis from March 2010 to December 2011 at two Brazilian Stroke Centers were included. Differences between patients with RMCA and LMCA stroke were identified by univariate analysis. Results Forty-five patients with RMCA stroke and 67 with LMCA stroke were analyzed. Patients with LMCA had a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation (p = 0.031), although patients with RMCA more often had a previous ischemic stroke (p = 0.034). The mortality over 3 months was similar for either side (OR = 1.20 ;0.37 - 4.29, p = 0.772). Conclusion The side of the MCA ischemic stroke did not influence the patients mortality.
Indices of agreement between neurosurgeons and a radiologist in interpreting tomography scans in an emergency department
Authors: Dourado Jules Carlos , Pereira Júlio Leonardo Barbosa , Albuquerque Lucas Alverne Freitas de , Carvalho Gervásio Teles Cardos de , Dias Patrícia , Dias Laura , Bicalho Marcos , Magalhães Pollyana , Dellaretti Marcos
Published: July 2015

The power of interpretation in the analysis of cranial computed tomography (CCT) among neurosurgeons and radiologists has rarely been studied. This study aimed to assess the rate of agreement in the interpretation of CCTs between neurosurgeons and a radiologist in an emergency department. Method 227 CCT were independently analyzed by two neurosurgeons (NS1 and NS2) and a radiologist (RAD). The level of agreement in interpreting the examination was studied. Results The Kappa values obtained between NS1 and NS2 and RAD were considered nearly perfect and substantial agreement. The highest levels of agreement when evaluating abnormalities were observed in the identification of tumors, hydrocephalus and intracranial hematomas. The worst levels of agreement were observed for leukoaraiosis and reduced brain volume. Conclusions For diseases in which the emergency room procedure must be determined, agreement in the interpretation of CCTs between the radiologist and neurosurgeons was satisfactory.
Incidence and mortality of ischemic stroke subtypes in Joinville, Brazil: a population-based study
Authors: Lange Marcos C. , Cabral Norberto L. , Moro Carla H. C. , Longo Alexandre L. , Gonçalves Anderson R. , Zétola Viviane F. , Rundek Tatjana
Published: July 2015

Aims To measure the incidence and mortality rates of ischemic stroke (IS) subtypes in Joinville, Brazil. Methods All first-ever IS patients that occurred in Joinville from January 2005 to December 2006 were identified. The IS subtypes were classified by the TOAST criteria, and the patients were followed-up for one year after IS onset. Results The age-adjusted incidence per 100,000 inhabitants was 26 (17-39) for large-artery atherosclerosis (LAA), 17 (11-27) for cardioembolic (CE), 29 (20-41) for small vessel occlusion (SVO), 2 (0.6-7) for stroke of other determined etiology (OTH) and 30 (20-43) for stroke of undetermined etiology (UND). The 1-year mortality rate per 100,000 inhabitants was 5 (2-11) for LAA, 6 (3-13) for CE, 1 (0.1-6) for SVO, 0.2 (0-0.9) for OTH and 9 (4-17) for UND. Conclusion In the population of Joinville, the incidences of IS subtypes were similar to those found in other populations. These findings highlight the importance of better detection and control of atherosclerotic risk factors.
Short-term mortality and prognostic factors related to status epilepticus
Authors: Stelzer Fernando Gustavo , Bustamante Guilherme de Oliveira , Sander Heidi , Sakamoto Americo Ceiki , Fernandes Regina Maria França
Published: July 2015

Objective Status epilepticus (SE) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and there is some controversy concerning predictive indicators of outcome. Our main goal was to determine mortality and to identify factors associated with SE prognosis. Method This prospective study in a tertiary-care university hospital, included 105 patients with epileptic seizures lasting more than 30 minutes. Mortality was defined as death during hospital admission. Results The case-fatality rate was 36.2%, which was higher than in previous studies. In univariate analysis, mortality was associated with age, previous epilepsy, complex focal seizures; etiology, recurrence, and refractoriness of SE; clinical complications, and focal SE. In multivariate analysis, mortality was associated only with presence of clinical complications. Conclusions Mortality associated with SE was higher than reported in previous studies, and was not related to age, specific etiology, or SE duration. In multivariate analysis, mortality was independently related to occurrence of medical complications.
Memory deficit associated with increased brain proinflammatory cytokine levels and neurodegeneration in acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Silva Bruno , Sousa Larissa , Miranda Aline , Vasconcelos Anilton , Reis Helton , Barcelos Lucíola , Arantes Rosa , Teixeira Antonio , Rachid Milene Alvarenga
Published: July 2015

The present study aimed to investigate behavioral changes and neuroinflammatory process following left unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (UCCAO), a model of cerebral ischemia. Post-ischemic behavioral changes following 15 min UCCAO were recorded 24 hours after reperfusion. The novel object recognition task was used to assess learning and memory. After behavioral test, brains from sham and ischemic mice were removed and processed to evaluate central nervous system pathology by TTC and H&E techniques as well as inflammatory mediators by ELISA. UCCAO promoted long-term memory impairment after reperfusion. Infarct areas were observed in the cerebrum by TTC stain. Moreover, the histopathological analysis revealed cerebral necrotic cavities surrounded by ischemic neurons and hippocampal neurodegeneration. In parallel with memory dysfunction, brain levels of TNF-a, IL-1b and CXCL1 were increased post ischemia compared with sham-operated group. These ﬁndings suggest an involvement of central nervous system inﬂammatory mediators and brain damage in cognitive impairment following unilateral acute ischemia.
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the episodic autobiographic memory interview for Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Rodrigues Guilherme R. , Oliveira Daniel S. , Foss Maria P. , Takayanagui Osvaldo M.
Published: July 2015

Episodic memory enables the storage of personal events with specific temporal and spatial details, and their retrieval through a sensory experience, usually visual, which is called autonoetic consciousness. While, in Brazil, several scales for the evaluation of anterograde episodic memory have been validated, there is not yet an instrument to assess the episodic autobiographical memory. The aim of this study is thus to make a cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Episodic Autobiographic Memory Interview (EAMI) for Brazilian Portuguese. Altogether, 11 patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and 10 healthy controls (CTs) were evaluated. EAMI scores for AD patients were lower than those of CTs, and these scores also correlated positively with the Remember-Know coefficient. The intraclass correlation coefficient indicated a good inter-rater reliability. The Portuguese version of EAMI showed a good reliability and validity, which suggests that it is a useful tool for evaluation of autobiographical memory in Brazilian patients.
Preventing bleeding and thromboembolic complications in atrial fibrillation patients undergoing surgery
Authors: André Charles
Published: July 2015

Neurologists feel uneasy when asked about temporary anticoagulant interruption for surgery in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Rational decisions can be made based on current scientific evidence. Method Critical review of international guidelines and selected references pertaining to bleeding and thromboembolism during periods of oral anticoagulant interruption. Results Withholding oral anticoagulants leads to an increased risk of perioperative thromboembolism, depending on factors such as age, renal and liver function, previous ischemic events, heart failure etc. Surgeries are associated with a variable risk of bleeding - from minimal to very high. Individualized decisions about preoperative drug suspension, bridging therapy with heparin and time to restart oral anticoagulants after hemostasis can significantly reduce these opposing risks. Conclusion Rational decisions can be made after discussion with all Health care team professionals involved and consideration of patient fears and expectations. Formal written protocols should help managing antithrombotic treatment during this delicate period.
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 10 in the South of Brazil: the Amerindian-Belgian connection
Authors: Teive Hélio Afonso Ghizoni , Moro Adriana , Moscovich Mariana , Arruda Walter Oleskho , Munhoz Renato Puppi , Raskin Salmo , Teive Gladys Mary Ghizoni , Dallabrida Norberto , Ashizawa Tetsuo
Published: July 2015

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 10 (SCA10) is a rare form of autosomal dominant ataxia found predominantly in patients from Latin America with Amerindian ancestry. The authors report the history of SCA10 families from the south of Brazil (the states of Paraná and Santa Catarina), emphasizing the Belgian-Amerindian connection.
The influence of enriched environment on spatial memory in Swiss mice of different ages
Authors: Druzian Alessandra Fernandes , Melo José Aparecido de Oliveira , Souza Albert Schiaveto de
Published: July 2015

The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of enriched environment on spatial memory acquisition in mice of three different age groups. Weanling, young, and young adult female Swiss mice were housed in a standard control or enriched environment for 50 days, and their spatial memory was tested with the Morris Water Maze. We did not observe an experimental effect for spatial memory acquisition, and there was neither an effect of time of analysis nor an interaction between experimental group and time of analysis. Regarding effects of experimental group and training day in relation to latency in finding the hidden platform, we did find an effect in the experimental young adult mice group (p = 0.027), but there was no interaction between these factors in all three groups. Based on these findings environmental enrichment did not enhance spatial memory acquisition in female Swiss mice in the tested age groups.