bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of acute temperature stress on hemocytes of invasive and native mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialisandM. californianus): DNA damage, membrane integrity, apoptosis and signalling pathways
Authors: Yao Cui-Luan , Somero George N.
Published: September 2012

We investigated effects of acute heat- and cold stress on cell viability, lysosome membrane stability, double- and single-stranded DNA breakage, and signalling mechanisms involved in cellular homeostasis and apoptosis in hemocytes of native and invasive mussels, Mytilus californianus and M. galloprovincialis, respectively. Both heat stress (28ºC, 32ºC) and cold stress (2ºC, 6ºC) led to significant double- and single-stranded breaks in DNA. The types and extents of DNA damage were temperature- and time-dependent, as was caspase-3 activation, an indicator of apoptosis, which may occur in response to DNA damage. Hemocyte viability and lysosomal membrane stability decreased significantly under heat stress. Western blot analyses of hemocyte extracts with antibodies for proteins associated with cell signalling and stress responses [including members of the phospho-specific Mitogen Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) family (c-JUN NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) and p38-MAPK) and apoptosis executor caspase-3] revealed that heat- and cold stress induced a time-dependent activation of JNK, p38-MAPK and caspase-3 and that these signalling and stress responses differed between species. Thermal limits for activation of cell signalling processes linked to repair of stress-induced damage may help determine cellular thermal tolerance limits. Our results show similarities in responses to cold- and heat stress and suggest causal linkages between levels of DNA damage at both extremes of temperature and downstream regulatory responses, including induction of apoptosis. Compared to M. californianus, M. galloprovincialis might have a wider temperature tolerance due to a lower amount of double-stranded DNA damage, faster signalling activation and transduction, and stronger repair ability against temperature stress.
Using the American alligator and a repeated-measures design to place constraints onin vivoshoulder joint range of motion in dinosaurs and other fossil archosaurs
Authors: Hutson Joel D. , Hutson Kelda N.
Published: September 2012

Using the extant phylogenetic bracket of dinosaurs (crocodylians and birds), recent work has reported that elbow joint range of motion (ROM) studies of fossil dinosaur forearms may be providing conservative underestimates of fully fleshed in vivo ROM. Since humeral ROM occupies a more central role in forelimb movements, the placement of quantitative constraints on shoulder joint ROM could improve fossil reconstructions. Here, we investigated whether soft tissues affect the more mobile shoulder joint in the same manner in which they affect elbow joint ROM in an extant archosaur. This test involved separately and repeatedly measuring humeral ROM in Alligator mississippiensis as soft tissues were dissected away in stages to bare bone. Our data show that the ROMs of humeral flexion and extension, as well as abduction and adduction, both show a statistically significant increase as flesh is removed, but then decrease when the bones must be physically articulated and moved until they separate from one another and/or visible joint surfaces. A similar ROM pattern is inferred for humeral pronation and supination. All final skeletonized ROMs were less than initial fully fleshed ROMs. These results are consistent with previously reported elbow joint ROM patterns from the extant phylogenetic bracket of dinosaurs. Thus, studies that avoid separation of complementary articular surfaces may be providing fossil shoulder joint ROMs that underestimate in vivo ROM in dinosaurs, as well as other fossil archosaurs.
Terrestrial locomotion imposes high metabolic requirements on bats
Authors: Voigt Christian C. , Borissov Ivailo M. , Voigt-Heucke Silke L.
Published: September 2012

The evolution of powered flight involved major morphological changes in Chiroptera. Nevertheless, all bats are also capable of crawling on the ground and some are even skilled sprinters. We asked if a highly derived morphology adapted for flapping flight imposes high metabolic requirements on bats when moving on the ground. We measured the metabolic rate during terrestrial locomotion in mastiff bats, Molossus currentium; a species that is both, a fast-flying aerial-hawking bat and an agile crawler on the ground. Metabolic rates of bats averaged 8.0 ± 4.0 ml CO2 min-1 during a one minute period of sprinting at 1.3 ± 0.6 km h-1. With rising average speed, mean metabolic rates increased, reaching peak values that were similar to those of flying conspecifics. Metabolic rates of M. currentium were higher than those of similar-sized rodents under steady-state conditions that sprinted at similar velocities. When M. currentium sprinted at peak velocities its aerobic metabolic rate was 3-5 times higher than those of rodent species running continuously in steady-state condition. Costs of transport (J kg-1 m-1) were more than ten times higher for running than for flying bats. We conclude that at the same speed bats experience higher metabolic rates during short sprints than quadruped mammals during steady-state terrestrial locomotion, yet running bats achieve higher maximal mass-specific aerobic metabolic rates than non-volant mammals such as rodents.
NMR and Thermodynamic Study of Phase Transition in Aqueous Solutions of Thermoresponsive Amphiphilic Polymer
Authors: Hanykova Lenka , Radecki Marek
Published: September 2012

1H NMR techniques combined with differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiments are employed to investigate the temperature-induced phase transition in aqueous poly(vinyl methyl ether) solutions. NMR data were used to construct van’t Hoff plots, and changes in the enthalpy and entropy characterizing the phase transition were determined. It follows from a comparison of NMR and DSC thermodynamic parameters (ΔH values) for solutions with c = 1–30 wt % that the size of the cooperative units (domains) undergoing the transition corresponds to the whole polymer chain.
Solution Behavior of Long–alkyl–chain Amide Amine Oxide Surfactants Having Multiple Hydrogen-bonding Sites
Authors: Kakehashi Rie , Tokai Naoji , Yamamura Shingo
Published: September 2012

We investigated the surface tension behavior and gelation ability of amide amine oxide surfactants with different numbers and arrangements of amide groups, and different spacer lengths between the amide and amine oxide groups. Whether the amide groups work as the polar head groups or they are incorporated in the hydrophobic part depended on the spacer length. The number and arrangement of amide groups were important in the hydrogen-bond formation between surfactant molecules.
An Electrostatic Model for the Unusual Salt Effect on the Stability of Ionic Copolymer Micelles
Authors: Maeda Hiroshi
Published: September 2012

An interesting observation reported that the critical micelle concentrations of an ionic amphiphilic block copolymer increased with the salt concentration. Numerical solutions of the Poisson–Boltzmann equations for polyelectrolyte brushes have suggested the existence of a region of approximately zero net charges close to the nonpolar core surface. The observed unusual salt effect could be explained if a kind of counter ion condensation is assumed in this region.
Computer Simulation of the Solubilization of Liposomes by Bile Salts
Authors: Mögel Hans-Jörg , Wahab Mirco , Schmidt Robin , Schiller Peter
Published: September 2012

The solubilization of a small unilamellar vesicle by bile salts is studied using Monte Carlo and Langevin dynamics simulation with an implicit solvent. By using coarse-grained models of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine and sodium cholate, it has been shown that the mechanism of transition from vesicle to mixed-micelle consists of the following stages: (a) separation of the bile salts from the solution phase and adsorption on the vesicle membrane, (b) enhanced pore formation with increasing bile salt concentration in the membrane, (c) detachment of worm-like mixed micelles from the pores, and (d) decay of the worm-like mixed micelles into smaller mixed micelles which have a reduced ratio of lipid to cholate molecules.
Forensic Economics
Authors: Zitzewitz Eric
Published: September 2012

A new meta-field of “forensic economics” has begun to emerge, uncovering evidence of hidden behavior in a variety of domains. Examples include teachers cheating on exams, road builders skimping on materials, violations of U.N. sanctions, unnecessary heart surgeries, and racial biases in employment decisions, traffic stops, auto retailing, and even sports judging. In each case, part of the contribution of economic analysis is in uncovering evidence of wrongdoing. Although research questions differ, forensic economic work shares commonalities in approaches and limitations. This article seeks to draw out the common threads, with the hope of stimulating further research across fields. (JEL K13)
A comprehensive analysis of precursor microRNA cleavage by human Dicer
Authors: Feng Yong , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Graves Paul , Zeng Yan
Published: September 2012

Dicer cleaves double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) or precursor microRNAs (pre-miRNAs) to yield ∼22-nt RNA duplexes. The pre-miRNA structure requirement for human Dicer activity is incompletely understood. By large-scale in vitro dicing assays and mutagenesis studies, we showed that human Dicer cleaves most, although not all, of the 161 tested human pre-miRNAs efficiently. The stable association of RNAs with Dicer, as examined by gel shift assays, appears important but is not sufficient for cleavage. Human Dicer tolerates remarkable structural variation in its pre-miRNA substrates, although the dsRNA feature in the stem region and the 2-nt 3′-overhang structure in a pre-miRNA contribute to its binding and cleavage by Dicer, and a large terminal loop further enhances pre-miRNA cleavage. Dicer binding protects the terminal loop from digestion by S1 nuclease, suggesting that Dicer interacts directly with the terminal loop region.
Optimal Sampling Laws for Stochastically Constrained Simulation Optimization on Finite Sets
Authors: Hunter Susan R. , Pasupathy Raghu
Published: September 2012

Consider the context of selecting an optimal system from among a finite set of competing systems, based on a “stochastic” objective function and subject to multiple “stochastic” constraints. In this context, we characterize the asymptotically optimal sample allocation that maximizes the rate at which the probability of false selection tends to zero. Since the optimal allocation is the result of a concave maximization problem, its solution is particularly easy to obtain in contexts where the underlying distributions are known or can be assumed. We provide a consistent estimator for the optimal allocation and a corresponding sequential algorithm fit for implementation. Various numerical examples demonstrate how the proposed allocation differs from competing algorithms.
Approximation Algorithms for Integrated Distribution Network Design Problems
Authors: Li Yu , Shu Jia , Wang Xi , Xiu Naihua , Xu Dachuan , Zhang Jiawei
Published: September 2012

In this paper, we study approximation algorithms for two supply chain network design problems, namely, the warehouse-retailer network design problem (WRND) and the stochastic transportation-inventory network design problem (STIND). These two problems generalize the classical uncapacitated facility location problem by incorporating, respectively, the warehouse-retailer echelon inventory cost and the warehouse cycle inventory together with the safety stock costs. The WRND and the STIND were initially studied, respectively, by Teo and Shu (Teo CP, Shu J (2004) Warehouse-retailer network design problem. Oper. Res. 52(3):396–408) and Shu et al. (Shu J, Teo CP, Shen ZJM (2005) Stochastic transportation-inventory network design problem. Oper. Res. 53(1):48–60), where they are formulated as set-covering problems, and column-generation algorithms were used to solve their linear programming relaxations. Both problems can be regarded as special cases of the so-called facility location with submodular facility costs proposed by Svitkina and Tardos (Svitkina Z, Tardos É (2010) Facility location with hierarchical facility costs. ACM Trans. Algorithms 6(2), Article No. 37), for which only a logarithmic-factor approximation algorithm is known. Our main contribution is to obtain efficient constant-factor approximation algorithms for the WRND and the STIND, which are capable of solving large-scale instances of these problems efficiently.
Exact Algorithms for a Bandwidth Packing Problem with Queueing Delay Guarantees
Authors: Han Jinil , Lee Kyungsik , Lee Chungmok , Park Sungsoo
Published: September 2012

The bandwidth packing problem (BWP) concerns the selection of calls from a given set and the assignment of one path to each selected call. The ultimate aim of the BWP is to maximize profit while the routings of the selected calls observe the capacity constraints of the links. Here, we additionally consider queueing delays in the network, which may cause a deterioration in the quality of service to users if they exceed the acceptable limits. The integer programming formulation for the BWP with the queueing delay restriction contains a nonlinear constraint that is intrinsic to the model. We apply the Dantzig-Wolfe decomposition to this nonlinear constraint, and since the Dantzig-Wolfe decomposition has exponentially many variables, we propose the branch-and-price procedure to find optimal solutions. We also propose a generalized Dantzig-Wolfe reformulation based on the aggregation of variables, which makes our branch-and-price algorithm more competitive. Computational results on cases of randomly generated networks and some real-life telecommunication networks demonstrate that our algorithm performs well for large networks.
Short-term topiramate treatment does not improve insulin sensitivity or secretion in obese insulin-resistant women
Authors: Sleddering Maria A , Snel Marieke , Streefland Trea C M , Pijl Hanno , Jazet Ingrid M
Published: September 2012

Objective

Long-term treatment with topiramate reduces body weight and improves insulin sensitivity in obese humans. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of topiramate treatment for 4 weeks on insulin sensitivity and secretion, independent of weight loss.

Design

Randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled study.

Methods

Thirteen obese (BMI 36.6±1.3 kg/m2 (mean±s.e.m.)), insulin-resistant (homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance 2.0±0.2) women received topiramate (T, maximum dose of 75 mg) and placebo (P) for 4 weeks, separated by a 4-week washout period. Insulin sensitivity and β-cell function were assessed using a two-step hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp with stable isotopes and a hyperglycemic clamp.

Results

Hepatic and peripheral insulin sensitivities were not affected by topiramate treatment (glucose disposal rate (step 1 (insulin infusion rate 10 mU/m2 per min) T: 17.5±0.8 vs P: 18.5±1.0 μmol/kgLBM per min, t=1.016, P=0.33; step 2 (insulin infusion rate 40 mU/m2 per min) T: 27.9±3.2 vs P: 28.8±1.9 μmol/kgLBM per min, t=0.418, P=0.68)). Subjects lost a small amount of weight during the topiramate period (T: −1.0±0.2 vs P: −0.1±0.2 kg, t=2842, P=0.15). There were no changes in body fat mass, blood pressure, and fasting glucose. β-Cell function was not affected by topiramate as evidenced by an unaltered area under the curve of early (0–10 min; T: 1929.6±265.7 vs P: 2024.7±333.6 pmol/l, t=−0.357, P=0.73) and late (80–120 min; T: 28 017.7±5029.9 vs P: 31 567.7±5376.2 pmol/l, t=−1.481, P=0.16) phase insulin levels during hyperglycemia. The use of topiramate was associated with significant side effects such as paresthesia, nausea, dizziness, and concentration problems.

Conclusions

Low-dose topiramate treatment for 4 weeks, relative to placebo, had no significant effect on insulin sensitivity in overweight/obese adult females without established diabetes.
Development of cultured microspores of maize in the presence of n-butanol and 2-aminoethanol
Authors: Földesiné Füredi P. , Ambrus H. , Barnabás B.
Published: September 2012

The aim of the present study was to examine whether the induction of maize microspore embryogenesis could be triggered by the application of biogenic alcohols, as was reported earlier in wheat. A single cross hybrid (A 18) raised in the phytotron was used as anther donor for shed microspore cultures after cold pretreatment. At the onset of culturing, anthers in liquid YP medium were treated with 0.2 or 0.4% n-butanol or with 2 mM aminoethanol (2-AE) for 6 or 18 hours.The treatments caused a drastic (approx. 50%) decrease in the viability of the microspores. After a few days of culture in medium containing neither n-butanol nor 2-AE, 9-13% of the microspores remained alive and capable of switching to the sporophytic pathway of development.Treatment with 0.2% n-butanol for 6 h considerably increased the frequency of symmetric nuclear divisions (more than 3×) and of induced microspores (2×). The embryo yield was also elevated by 10%. The results showed that n-butanol could be used to improve the androgenic response and microspore embryogenesis in maize, but not as efficiently as in wheat. Further examination will be required to find the reasons for the different behaviour of microspores of the two species.
Phytochemical investigation of medicinal and culinary herbs
Authors: Héthelyi É. , Galambosi B. , Szarka S. , Lemberkovics É. , Szőke É.
Published: September 2012

The chemical contents of 47 herb and medicinal plant species cultivated in Finland during 2001–2011 were analysed in Hungary, and a total of 101 components were determined.The phytochemical evaluation of the herbs was aimed at interpretating the effects observed in acclimatization studies performed under Nordic climatic conditions. The phytochemical analysis was successfully applied for the quality control of medicinal, aromatic and culinary herbs, and provided numerous new scientific results (Acorus calamus, Artemisia abrotanum, A. paniculata, Gentiana lutea, Ligusticum scoticum, Perilla frutescens, Rhodiola rosea, Satureja biflora, Tagetes lucida). The results will provide useful guidelines for growers both in Finland and Hungary.
Impact of phosphorus fertilization in alleviating the adverse effects of salinity on wheat grown on different soil types
Authors: Abd El-Hamed Enas , Metwally S. , Matar M. , Yousef N.
Published: September 2012

Optimum fertilization management is an important technique to alleviate the adverse effects of salinity stress on plants. A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the ameliorative role of inorganic phosphorus (P) and organic P sources on wheat grown under salt stress in three soil types deficient in available P. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Shakha 93) was grown on alluvial, sandy and calcareous soils at salinity levels of 4, 8 and 12 dS/m of saturated paste extract (ECe) and supplied with a constant rate of 30 mg P2O5/kg soil as superphosphate (SP), cattle manure (CM) and a 1:1 mixture of SP and CM. The results revealed that plants grown on the sandy soil were more susceptible to the adverse effects of salinity than those planted on the alluvial one, especially at zero P. Plants grown on the calcareous soil were moderately affected. The varying soil type caused significant differences in the aboveground biomass and the uptake of N, K, P and Zn. It was obvious that P ameliorated wheat growth under salt stress, and this role was greater under moderate and high salinity. The increases in N, P, K and Zn uptake driven by P application were more conspicuous in the sandy and calcareous soils. The results also indicated that the combined application of inorganic and organic P sources surpassed that of either when applied alone on all soil types and salinity levels.
Improvement of tea leaves fermentation through pectinases
Authors: Thakur Jagriti , Gupta Reena
Published: September 2012

The pectinase enzymes isolated fromAspergillus niger,Byssochlamys fulvaandMucor circinelloideswere used for fermentation of tea leaves fromCamellia sinensisplant. The use of partially purified enzymes fromAspergillus nigerandMucor circinelloidesresulted in significant (p< 0.001) increase in the phenolic compounds, hence, improvement in tea quality. Maximum increase in phenolic compounds was found in tea leaves treated with partially purified polygalacturonase (PGase) fromMucor circinelloides. Hence, purified polygalacturonase fromMucor circinelloideswas used to study its effect on the improvement of tea leaves fermentation. The partially purified polygalacturonase fromMucor circinelloideswas found to be most effective in tea fermentation, whereas pectin lyase fromByssochlamys fulvahad little role in improvement of tea quality.
Autoimmune diseases detected in children with primary immunodeficiency diseases: results from a reference centre at middle anatolia
Authors: Patiroglu Turkan , Gungor Hatice , Unal Ekrem
Published: September 2012

Primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDs) are a heterogeneous group of disorders that genetically affect distinct components of the immune system; thus, predispose individuals to recurrent infections, allergy, autoimmunity, and malignancies. In this retrospective study, autoimmune diseases (ADs), which developed during the course of PID in children, were discussed.Twenty-five patients were included in this study. Symptoms related to ADs, such as autoimmune thyroiditis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, coeliac disease, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, dermatomyositis, autoimmune haemolytic anaemia, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, Henoch-Schonlein purpura, hypoparathyroidism, alopecia areata, Addison’s disease, vitiligo and systemic lupus erythematosus were detected in these patients, who have been followed with diagnosis of PID including common variable immunodeficiency, selective and partial IgA deficiency, Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome, ataxia telangiectasia, hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome, chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, Griscelli syndrome, and partial C4 deficiency.Immunodeficiency and autoimmune phenomenon may concomitantly present in an individual, although they seem to be incompatible ends in the spectrum of the clinical immune response. Patients with primary immune deficiency should be closely monitored for development of autoimmune diseases.
Apis mellifera pollination improves agronomic productivity of anemophilous castor bean (Ricinus communis)
Authors: Rizzardo Rômulo A.G. , Milfont Marcelo O. , Silva Eva M.S. da , Freitas Breno M.
Published: September 2012

Castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) is cultivated mainly for biodiesel production because of its oil-rich seeds; it is assumed to be an anemophylous species. But pollination deficit can lead to low productivity often attributed to other reasons. In this paper, we investigated pollination requirements, pollination mechanism, occurrence of pollination deficit, and the role of biotic pollinators in a large commercial plantation of castor bean. Our results show that R. communis bears a mixed breeding system favoring selfing by geitonogamy, although the wind promotes mostly outcrossing. We also found that the honey bee (Apis mellifera L.) foraging on castor bean can both transfer pollen from male to female flowers within the same raceme and boost the release of airborne pollen by male flowers. Both situations increase geitonogamy rates, raising significantly fruit set and seed yield. This is the first report of an animal foraging activity increasing seed yield in an anemophilous and geitonogamous crop and elucidates the role of biotic pollinators in castor bean reproduction.
Acute toxicity of sodium metabisulphite on mangrove crab Ucides cordatus (Decapoda, Ucididae)
Authors: Pedale Adriana B. , Fujimoto Rodrigo Y. , Santos Rudã F.B. , Abrunhosa Fernando A.
Published: September 2012

The sodium metabisulphite salt is usually used in shrimp culture to prevent black spot. Unfortunately the toxicological effect of this xenobiotic in decapod crabs is unknown. Thus, the present study aims to investigate the sodium metabisulphite LC50 - 96 h in the mangrove species Ucides cordatus. Crabs were collected in the tidal creek margins in Bragança estuarine and were submitted to preliminary test (screening) and posterior definitive test. Crabs were exposed in five different concentrations and a control group in five replicates, two crabs per recipient (5 L) during 96 hours. A negative correlation was observed to sodium metabisulphite concentration in relation to dissolved oxygen and pH. At the end of the experiment were obtained the following mortality index in relation to sodium metabisulphite concentrations: 100% in 86.0 mg.L-1, 74% in 62.0 mg.L-1, 52% in 52.0 mg.L-1, 44% in 38.0 mg.L-1. The value of LC50 - 96 h for U. cordatus was determinate at 42.58 mg.L-1/Na2S2O5. The results strongly indicate that sodium metabisulphite is toxic for U. cordatus, and this crab could be used for biomonitoring the environmental impact.
Nível de atividade física para prevenção do excesso de gordura visceral em mulheres pós-menopáusicas: quanto é necessário?
Authors: Pitanga Cristiano Penas Seara , Pitanga Francisco José Gondim , Beck Carmem Cristina , Gabriel Ronaldo Eugénio Calçada Dias , Moreira Maria Helena Rodrigues
Published: September 2012

OBJETIVO: Analisar a quantidade de atividade física (kcal/semana) necessária à prevenção do excesso de gordura visceral em mulheres pós-menopáusicas. SUJEITOS E MÉTODOS: A amostra incluiu 239 mulheres com uma idade média de 57,2 anos. A área de gordura visceral (AGV) foi medida por bioimpedância octopolar e a atividade física, com a versão longa do IPAQ. Foram construídas curvas Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) e considerado um intervalo de confiança de 95%. RESULTADOS: As áreas sob a curva ROC para a atividade física moderada e a caminhada revelaram-se significativas. O dispêndio semanal de 1.601 kcal na caminhada ou de 2.283 kcal de atividade física moderada foi identificado como bons valores de corte para prevenir o excesso de AGV. CONCLUSÃO: A prática da atividade física de intensidade leve a moderada, com um gasto calórico entre 1.601 e 2.283 kcal/semana, previne o excesso de adiposidade central em mulheres pós-menopáusicas.
Avaliação do peso corporal em pacientes com doença de Graves durante o tratamento com metimazol
Authors: Moretto Renata Loureiro , Pedro Ana Beatriz P. , Leite Alex Carvalho , Romaldini João Hamilton
Published: September 2012

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a alteração de peso durante o tratamento do hipertiroidismo e correlacioná-la com IL-6 e TNF-alfa. SUJEITOS E MÉTODOS: Quarenta e dois pacientes foram incluídos. Peso corporal (PC), índice de massa corpórea (IMC), características clínicas e laboratoriais foram registrados. IL-6 e TNF-alfa foram determinados antes do tratamento com metimazol (MMI) e no estado de eutiroidismo. RESULTADOS: O PC foi de 59,62 ± 11,5 kg no estado de hipertiroidismo e de 69,91 ± 14,4 kg no estado de eutiroidismo (p < 0,001). O IMC aumentou de 23,1 ± 3,8 kg/m² para 27 ± 4,7 kg/m² durante o tratamento (p < 0,0001). Antes da terapia, 66,6% tinham IMC < 25 kg/m² e 33,3%, IMC > 25 kg/m². No estado de eutiroidismo, 38% dos pacientes apresentavam IMC < 25 kg/m² e 62%, IMC > 25 kg/m² (p = 0,01). No estado de eutiroidismo, encontrou-se significativa diminuição nos valores de IL-6 e TNF-alfa, mas nenhuma correlação entre IL-6 e TNF-alfa com PC ou IMC. CONCLUSÃO: Um importante aumento no PC e IMC foi observado durante o tratamento do hipertiroidismo e alterações de IL-6 e TNF-alfa relacionam-se somente com o retorno ao eutiroidismo.
Relationship of number of seizures recorded on video-EEG to surgical outcome in refractory medial temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Sainju Rup Kamal , Wolf Bethany Jacobs , Bonilha Leonardo , Martz Gabriel
Published: September 2012

INTRODUCTION: Surgical planning for refractory medial temporal lobe epilepsy (rMTLE) relies on seizure localization by ictal electroencephalography (EEG). Multiple factors impact the number of seizures recorded. We evaluated whether seizure freedom correlated to the number of seizures recorded, and the related factors. METHODS: We collected data for 32 patients with rMTLE who underwent anterior temporal lobectomy. Primary analysis evaluated number of seizures captured as a predictor of surgical outcome. Subsequent analyses explored factors that may seizure number. RESULTS: Number of seizures recorded did not predict seizure freedom. More seizures were recorded with more days of seizure occurrence (p<0.001), seizure clusters (p<0.011) and poorly localized seizures (PLSz) (p=0.004). Regression modeling showed a trend for subjects with fewer recorded poorly localized seizures to have better surgical outcome (p=0.052). CONCLUSIONS: Total number of recorded seizures does not predict surgical outcome. Patients with more PLSz may have worse outcome.
Neurological complications following bariatric surgery
Authors: Fragoso Yara Dadalti , Alves-Leon Soniza Vieira , Anacleto Andréa de Carvalho , Brooks Joseph Bruno Bidin , Gama Paulo Diniz da , Gomes Sidney , Gonçalves Marcus Vinicius Magno , Lin Katia , Lopes Josiane , Kaimen-Maciel Damacio Ramon , Malfetano Fabiola Haschid , Martins Gladys Lentz , Oliveira Francisco Tomaz Menezes de , Oliveira Leonardo Dornas , Schlindwein-Zanini Rachel
Published: September 2012

OBJECTIVE: It was to report on Brazilian cases of neurological complications from bariatric surgery. The literature on the subject is scarce. METHOD: Cases attended by neurologists in eight different Brazilian cities were collected and described in the present study. RESULTS: Twenty-six cases were collected in this study. Axonal polyneuropathy was the most frequent neurological complication, but cases of central demyelination, Wernicke syndrome, optical neuritis, radiculits, meralgia paresthetica and compressive neuropathies were also identified. Twenty-one patients (80%) had partial or no recovery from the neurological signs and symptoms. CONCLUSION: Bariatric surgery, a procedure that is continuously increasing in popularity, is not free of potential neurological complications that should be clearly presented to the individual undergoing this type of surgery. Although a clear cause-effect relation cannot be established for the present cases, the cumulative literature on the subject makes it important to warn the patient of the potential risks of this procedure.
Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor originally diagnosed as astrocytoma and oligodendroglioma
Authors: Dozza Diego Cassol , Rodrigues Flávio Freinkel , Chimelli Leila
Published: September 2012

Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNT), described in 1988 and introduced in the WHO classification in 1993, affects predominantly children or young adults causing intractable complex partial seizures. Since it is benign and treated with surgical resection, its recognition is important. It has similarities with low-grade gliomas and gangliogliomas, which may recur and become malignant. OBJECTIVES: To investigate whether DNT was previously diagnosed as astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, or ganglioglioma and to determine its frequency in a series of low-grade glial/glio-neuronal tumors. METHODS: Clinical, radiological, and histological aspects of 58 tumors operated from 1978 to 2008, classified as astrocytomas (32, including 8 pilocytic), oligodendrogliomas (12), gangliogliomas (7), and DNT (7), were reviewed. RESULTS: Four new DNT, one operated before 1993, previously classified as astrocytoma (3) and oligodendroglioma (1), were identified. One DNT diagnosed in 2002 was classified once more as angiocentric glioma. Therefore, 10 DNT (17.2%) were identified. CONCLUSIONS: Clinical-radiological and histopathological correlations have contributed to diagnose the DNT.
New algorithm for the diagnosis of hereditary dystonia
Authors: Camargos Sarah , Cardoso Francisco
Published: September 2012

Taking into account the crescent interest in the field of dystonia genetics, we have organized a didactic and fast algorithm to diagnose the main forms of hereditary dystonias. The key branch of this algorithm is pointed to dystonia classification in primary, plus, or paroxysmal. The specific characteristics of each syndrome will reveal the diagnosis.
Physiopathology of symptoms and signs in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Sá Maria José
Published: September 2012

The physiopathology of symptoms and signs in multiple sclerosis (MS) is a less divulged topic albeit its importance in the patients' management. OBJECTIVE: It was to summarize the main biophysical and biochemical mechanisms which produce the clinical manifestations in MS. RESULTS: The mechanisms underpinning neurological deficits are described in the relapsing and in the progressive phases, stressing inflammatory and neurodegenerative components, especially demyelination, axonal damage and conduction impairment. Transient worsening based in Uhthoff's phenomenon, mechanisms producing positive symptoms, as paraesthesias and Lhermitte sign due to axonal hiperexcitability and ephaptic interactions, and development of cortical symptoms will also be addressed. The variety of processes leading to neural repair and functional recovery in the remitting phase is focused, as remyelination and adaptive changes due to neural plasticity. CONCLUSION: The awareness of mechanisms producing symptoms in MS emphasises the role of symptomatic and rehabilitation therapies in the improvement of patients' well-being.
A mídia e a crise da democracia: repensando a política estética
Authors: Kang Jaeho
Published: September 2012

Este ensaio reexamina tese de Walter Benjamin da estetização da política relacionando-a ao desenvolvimento das mídias de massa e à crise da democracia. Essa tese é o ponto central tanto de sua concepção da crise da democracia liberal quanto da ascensão do fascismo. O estudo da análise de Benjamin sobre a interação entre a política fascista e as mídias de massa leva a uma consideração crítica da função do espetáculo político na era da mídia e aponta sua relevância para nossa compreensão crítica da ligação entre as novas mídias e a democracia, seja ela a "nova" ou a "antiga".
Genetic parameter and correlation estimates of processing traits in half-sib progenies of tropical-adapted carrot germplasm
Authors: Vieira Jairo V , Silva Giovani Olegario da , Boiteux Leonardo S
Published: September 2012

The estimate of the genetic parameters associated with processing (fresh-cut) traits, including root length (RL), is crucial for carrot breeding programs in tropical areas. The cultivar Alvorada is an important germplasm due to its resistance to nematodes, leaf blight, heat-tolerance, and high carotenoid content. Seventy-four 'Alvorada' half-sib progenies were evaluated during the summer of 2005 in the Federal District, Brazil, in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Thirteen competitive plants in each block were randomly selected and evaluated and/or classified for RL and for number of leaves (NL), leaf length (LL), root tip type (RT), root mass (RW), crown shape (CS), root diameter (RD), and xylem diameter (XD). The Pearson's correlation coefficients and the heritability values were estimated for all traits. The path analysis was also used considering the RL trait as dependent variable. The heritability for RL ranged from 12 to 44%. For the other traits, the values ranged from 3% (RD) to 79% (LL). Phenotypic and genotypic correlations among all traits were low to intermediate. Path analysis indicated positive direct relationship between RL and RW, whereas RD and XD displayed negative direct effect on RL. Longer roots had narrow diameter and narrow XD. Recurrent selection based upon either half-sib or S1 families would be more effective than mass phenotypic recurrent selection in increasing RL and to develop populations expressing multiple desirable processing traits in tropical-adapted carrot germplasm.
Dinâmica do potencial matricial em substratos de pinus e coco sob ação da capilaridade
Authors: Barreto Carlos Vinícius G , Testezlaf Roberto , Salvador Conan A
Published: September 2012

O tamanho médio de partículas e a porosidade dos substratos condicionam as propriedades matriciais, interferindo na capacidade de retenção e de transmissão da água no meio. O conhecimento desses atributos é fundamental em processos de irrigação por capilaridade, para que o molhamento atinja as camadas superiores dos recipientes com níveis de tensão de água facilmente disponível. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo estudar a ascensão de água por capilaridade para determinar a posição mais apropriada do nível de saturação na ascensão capilar em recipientes com substratos de coco e pinus, de textura grossa e fina. Foram efetuados experimentos avaliando a ascensão de água por capilaridade em colunas segmentadas preenchidas com os substratos. Os valores de umidade em cada segmento foram calculados gravimetricamente e relacionados aos de tensão estimados pela curva de tensão dos substratos. Os substratos com textura fina apresentaram melhor elevação de água por capilaridade, com melhor elevação da umidade em níveis de tensão de água disponível. O substrato de coco fino apresentou água disponível em todo o perfil do recipiente, enquanto o de pinus apresentou as camadas superiores do recipiente com água retida em tensões abaixo do ponto de murcha permanente. O substrato fino de coco apresentou os melhores resultados para aplicação na irrigação por capilaridade, permitindo recomendar o seu uso com o nível de saturação posicionado a cinco centímetros do fundo do recipiente por quinze minutos.
Testes de vigor em sementes de alface
Authors: Kikuti Ana Lúcia P , Marcos Filho Julio
Published: September 2012

O vigor da semente tem sido avaliado por meio de testes fisiológicos, bioquímicos e de tolerância a estresse. Mais recentemente, com o uso da análise computadorizada de imagens de plântulas, podem ser obtidas informações objetivas, em período relativamente curto, com menor interferência humana. O objetivo nesta pesquisa foi identificar testes eficientes para avaliação do vigor de sementes de alface, com ênfase para a análise de imagens digitais de plântulas. Sementes de 12 lotes (seis da cultivar Vanda e seis da Vera) foram avaliadas por meio de testes de germinação, germinação a baixa temperatura (15ºC), emergência de plântulas e envelhecimento acelerado tradicional e com solução salina (NaCl 40%) saturada, a 41ºC/48 h e 41ºC/72 h. Utilizou-se, também, o sistema de análise computadorizada de imagens de plântulas (SVIS®), desenvolvido pela Ohio State University (EUA), que forneceu dados referentes ao índice de vigor, uniformidade e crescimento de plântulas. Os testes foram realizados a cada três meses, durante 12 meses de armazenamento, sob condições ambiente. Com base nos resultados obtidos, concluiu-se que os testes de envelhecimento acelerado com uso de solução saturada de NaCl, a 41ºC por 48 e 72 horas e de velocidade de germinação, e os parâmetros obtidos com o software SVIS, índice de crescimento de plântulas e comprimento da raiz primária, são eficientes na avaliação do vigor de lotes de sementes de alface.
Manutenção da qualidade de rosas cortadas cv. Vega em soluções conservantes
Authors: Pietro Júlia de , Mattiuz Ben-Hur , Mattiuz Claudia FM , Rodrigues Teresinha de JD
Published: September 2012

A rosa é considerada uma das flores de corte mais tradicionais e requisitadas no mercado mundial. Entretanto, após o corte, essas flores tornam-se altamente perecíveis devido à elevada atividade metabólica que conduz aos processos de senescência. Assim, o experimento foi realizado para verificar o efeito do uso de soluções conservantes na fisiologia pós-colheita de rosas vermelhas cortadas cultivar Vega. Utilizou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, em esquema fatorial composto por dois fatores: sete tratamentos pós-colheita e quatro datas de avaliação. As flores permaneceram nas seguintes soluções de manutenção: 1) Água destilada; 2) 8-hidroxiquinolina (200 mg L-1); 3) 8-hidroxiquinolina (200 mg L-1) + Sacarose (20 mg L-1); 4) Ácido cítrico (75 mg L-1); 5) Ácido cítrico (75 mg L-1) + Sacarose (20 mg L-1); 6) 6-benziladenina (60 mg L-1); 7) 6 benziladenina (60 mg L-1) + Sacarose (20 mg L-1). Foram realizadas análises qualitativas e fisiológicas ao longo do período de avaliação. O tratamento com 8-hidroxiquinolina e ácido cítrico revelaram-se mais promissores para manter a qualidade e prolongar a vida de vaso das flores, o que foi evidenciado pela menor perda de massa fresca, atividade respiratória e conteúdo relativo de água; melhor manutenção do conteúdo de carboidratos solúveis e redutores, antocianina e coloração.
É preciso salvar os direitos humanos!
Authors: Alves José Augusto Lindgren
Published: September 2012

Os direitos humanos se encontram em fase de evidente desprestígio. Os motivos do descrédito não são apenas as violações que prosseguem, nem distorções decorrentes de valores não ocidentais. São também, e sobretudo, sua extensão conceitual exagerada, promovida pela esquerda culturalista pós-moderna, assim como a repetição inercial de ações e posturas, hoje anacrônicas, inerentes ao sistema de proteção internacional existente. Para recuperá-los em sentido construtivo é necessário voltar à Declaração Universal de 1948, atualizar o discurso originalmente construído contra ditaduras e readaptar o sistema à situação das democracias atuais ameaçadas.
Temas em Direitos Humanos de uma organização da Paraíba e o master frames de Direitos Humanos
Authors: Ricoldi Arlene Martinez
Published: September 2012

Utilizando-se do conceito de frames, o artigo procura delimitar um master frames de direitos humanos entre organizações não governamentais brasileiras que orienta ações e ativismo destas. Analisa-se particularmente a atuação da Fundação Margarida Maria Alves, sediada em João Pessoa, na Paraíba, utilizando principalmente os boletins informativos editados pela organização. O exame de sua trajetória e frames master ilumina aspectos da construção de um master frames de direitos humanos no Brasil.
Gestão de requisitos na construção civil: um estudo de caso focado nos requisitos ambientais de um projeto urbanístico
Authors: Pegoraro Camila , Saurin Tarcisio Abreu , Paula Istefani Carísio de
Published: September 2012

Este artigo apresenta diretrizes para realizar a gestão de requisitos durante o processo de projeto de ambientes construídos (PPAC). Uma versão preliminar das diretrizes foi desenvolvida a partir de uma revisão da literatura e um estudo exploratório. Tal versão foi parcialmente aplicada e refinada em um estudo de caso, no qual foram enfatizados os requisitos ambientais de um projeto urbanístico. A aplicação no estudo de caso exigiu o uso de múltiplas fontes de dados, tais como aproximadamente 12 horas de entrevistas, consulta a documentos (por exemplo, do licenciamento ambiental) e observações de reuniões relacionadas ao PPAC. As diretrizes propostas têm uma visão holística da GR, contemplando todas as suas etapas ao longo do processo de projeto, e houve a disponibilização de mecanismos que permitem controlar inevitáveis mudanças nos requisitos. Os dados coletados também possibilitaram avaliar as diretrizes em termos de sua utilidade e facilidade de uso. Dentre os resultados do estudo de caso, ficou evidenciada contribuição das diretrizes na coleta, organização e visibilidade dos requisitos ambientais, o que beneficia a tomada de decisão.
Heritability estimates for body weight and height at withers in Brazilian army horses
Authors: Tamioso Priscilla Regina , Cosmo Tiago Rafael , Pimentel Concepta Margaret McManus , Dias Laila Talarico , Teixeira Rodrigo de Almeida
Published: September 2012

The aim of this study was to estimate the heritability for weight and height at withers of 260-780 days of age No Defined Breed (NDB) horses, at intervals of 40 days, which belong to the Brazilian Army cavalry. Thus, the model considered the direct genetic effects as random ones, as fixed, the effects of sex and year of birth and the linear effects of height at withers and age, as covariates for the analysis of body weight, whereas for the analysis of height, the linear effect of weight was included as a covariate. For the complete data, the estimated heritability coefficients were 0.40±0.034 and 0.70±0.019 for weight and height at withers, respectively, indicating that individual selection for these traits may be effective. On the other hand, for the data subdivided into age classes, the heritability coefficients ranged between 0.04 and 0.77 for weight, with the highest estimation for the class between 440 and 480 days of age, which indicates a higher possibility of weight selection during this period. For height, the heritability values ranged between 0.08 and 0.98, being the highest estimate found between 300 and 340 days of age, corroborating, thus, to the selection of the trait at this age.
Analysis of action plans and coping plans for reducing salt consumption among women with hypertension
Authors: Agondi Rúbia de Freitas , Gallani Maria Cecília Bueno Jayme , Cornélio Marilia Estevam , Rodrigues Roberta Cunha Matheus
Published: September 2012

This cross-sectional study, based in implementation intention theory, describes action plans developed by women with hypertension (n=49) to add no more than 4g of salt per day to food and to reduce consumption of salty foods, as well as describing the barriers perceived and the coping strategies adopted for putting the action plans into practice. The plans were categorized according to similarities and were submitted to frequency analysis. The majority of the action and coping plans had to do with the effectuation of the behavior involving adding up to 4g of salt per day per person to food. The action strategies were aimed at quantifying the salt added, and the main obstacles were related to the reduced palatability of the food made with less salt. The coping plans have to do with preparing foods separately and to using natural seasonings instead of salt. This data can help the nurse to design activities for clinical education, with a view to reducing salt consumption among patients who prepare their own food.
Prevalence of alcohol, tobacco and street drugs consumption in adult Latin American immigrants
Authors: González-López José Rafael , Rodríguez-Gázquez María de los Ángeles , Lomas-Campos María de las Mercedes
Published: September 2012

To estimate the prevalence of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug consumption (through the self-report) in adult Latin-American immigrants of Seville, a cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in a representative sample of 190 immigrants. The results showed that 61.4% of the participants had consumed alcohol in previous month before data collection, although 13.2% of them were at risk of alcoholism. Moreover, 30.0% were smokers. In addition, 5.3% of the interviewed people had consumed illicit psychoactive substances in the previous six months (Marihuana: 3.7%, hashish: 1.1% and cocaine: 0.5%). For all substances under analysis, the consumption prevalence was much higher in men from 25 to 39 years of age. In conclusion, prevalence levels of this consumption were high among the studied immigrants. Nurses could train the population in the prevention of these risk behaviors through preventive practices.