bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EEG-Informed fMRI Reveals Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Perceptual Decision Making
Authors: Philiastides Marios G. , Sajda Paul
Published: November 2007

Single-unit and multiunit recordings in primates have already established that decision making involves at least two general stages of neural processing: representation of evidence from early sensory areas and accumulation of evidence to a decision threshold from decision-related regions. However, the relay of information from early sensory to decision areas, such that the accumulation process is instigated, is not well understood. Using a cued paradigm and single-trial analysis of electroencephalography (EEG), we previously reported on temporally specific components related to perceptual decision making. Here, we use information derived from our previous EEG recordings to inform the analysis of fMRI data collected for the same behavioral task to ascertain the cortical origins of each of these EEG components. We demonstrate that a cascade of events associated with perceptual decision making takes place in a highly distributed neural network. Of particular importance is an activation in the lateral occipital complex implicating perceptual persistence as a mechanism by which object decision making in the human brain is instigated.
Gene Expression Profiling in Postmortem Prefrontal Cortex of Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Kang Hyo Jung , Adams David H. , Simen Arthur , Simen Birgitte B. , Rajkowska Grazyna , Stockmeier Craig A. , Overholser James C. , Meltzer Herbert Y. , Jurjus George J. , Konick Lisa C. , Newton Samuel S. , Duman Ronald S.
Published: November 2007

Investigations of the molecular mechanisms underlying major depressive disorder (MDD) have been hampered by the complexity of brain tissue and sensitivity of gene expression profiling approaches. To address these issues, we used discrete microdissections of postmortem dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) (area 9) and an oligonucleotide (60mer) microarray hybridization procedure that increases sensitivity without RNA amplification. Mixed-effects statistical methods were used to rigorously control for medication usage in the subset of medicated depressed subjects. These analyses yielded a rich profile of dysregulated genes. Two of the most highly dysregulated genes of interest were stresscopin, a neuropeptide involved in stress responses, and Forkhead box D3 (FOXD3), a transcription factor. Secondary cell-based analysis demonstrated that stresscopin and FoxD3 are increased in neurons of DLPFC gray matter of MDD subjects. These findings identify abnormal gene expression in a discrete region of MDD subjects and contribute to further elucidation of the molecular alterations of this complex mood disorder.
A Computational Model for Redundant Human Three-Dimensional Pointing Movements: Integration of Independent Spatial and Temporal Motor Plans Simplifies Movement Dynamics
Authors: Biess Armin , Liebermann Dario G. , Flash Tamar
Published: November 2007

Few computational models have addressed the spatiotemporal features of unconstrained three-dimensional (3D) arm motion. Empirical observations made on hand paths, speed profiles, and arm postures during point-to-point movements led to the assumption that hand path and arm posture are independent of movement speed, suggesting that the geometric and temporal properties of movements are decoupled. In this study, we present a computational model of 3D movements for an arm with four degrees of freedom based on the assumption that optimization principles are separately applied at the geometric and temporal levels of control. Geometric properties (path and posture) are defined in terms of geodesic paths with respect to the kinetic energy metric in the Riemannian configuration space. Accordingly, a geodesic path can be generated with less muscular effort than on any other, nongeodesic path, because the sum of all configuration-speed-dependent torques vanishes. The temporal properties of the movement (speed) are determined in task space by minimizing the squared jerk along the selected end-effector path. The integration of both planning levels into a single spatiotemporal representation simplifies the control of arm dynamics along geodesic paths and results in movements with near minimal torque change and minimal peak value of kinetic energy. Thus, the application of Riemannian geometry allows for a reconciliation of computational models previously proposed for the description of arm movements. We suggest that geodesics are an emergent property of the motor system through the exploration of dynamical space. Our data validated the predictions for joint trajectories, hand paths, final postures, speed profiles, and driving torques.
Cruciform pattern formation in Sn/Co couples
Authors: Wang Chao-hong , Chen Sinn-wen
Published: November 2007

CoSn3phase is formed in Sn/Co couples reacted at 200 °C. The reaction phase shows a unique cruciform pattern that is observed for the first time in the solid/solid reaction. The reaction phase layers are thick and uniform along the edges of the Co substrate, and there are no reaction phases at the corners. A continuous reaction layer is formed in Sn/Co couples reacted at 180 °C. A metastable CoSn4phase is formed at the corner, and the reaction phase along the edge of the Co substrate is the CoSn3phase. The reaction CoSn3phase region shows a cruciform pattern if the CoSn4phase region is ignored. It is concluded that the Sn flux is much faster than the Co flux, and the cruciform pattern of the reaction CoSn3phase layer is formed either by cracking or transformation to the CoSn4phase at the corners where stresses are most intensified.
Improvement of CuAlO2thin film electrical conduction by the anisotropic conductivity
Authors: Lan Wei , Zhang Ming , Dong Guobo , Wang Yinyue , Yan Hui
Published: November 2007

CuAlO2thin films with (015) preferential orientation growth have been synthesized on quartz substrates using radio frequency (rf) magnetron sputtering at low temperature. Via the optimized postannealing condition (in N2preserved ambient at 900 °C for 5 h), the preferential orientation of the films changes from (015) to (001) direction. The use of a higher conductivity at theabplane of CuAlO2compared with that along thecaxis, reduces the resistivity of the film at room temperature to 37 Ω·cm from that of the as-deposited, 4.62 × 104Ω·cm. The positive Hall coefficient (+183.6 cm3/C) and the large mobility (4.07 cm2/V·s) suggest that CuAlO2thin films arep-type semiconductors with good conduction path. The temperature dependence of conductivity indicates that CuAlO2thin films obey a thermal-activation theory when the temperature is above 190 K, but below 185 K a two-dimension variable-range hopping mechanism becomes dominant.
Analysis of the complex dielectric permittivity behavior of porous Al2O3–SiC composites in the 1 MHz to 18 GHz frequency range
Authors: Battat J. , Calame J.P.
Published: November 2007

The complex dielectric permittivity of electrically lossy, porous Al2O3–SiC composites was measured as a function of frequency over the range of 0.001 to 18 GHz. These composites were fabricated by an infusion method of incorporating SiC polymer precursor into porous alumina disks. Repeat polymer infusions and pyrolysis steps to 1000 °C were carried out, with some samples undergoing an additional air fire prior to each subsequent step. Generally, it was found that for non-air-fired samples, moderate, controllable losses were attainable over a broad frequency range. By contrast, the dielectric loss attainable for air-fired samples was generally very low. For all samples, various aspects of the variation of permittivity components ϵ′ and ϵ″ with frequency were analyzed, with a view to determine the various factors contributing to dielectric response. Microstructure analysis using scanning electron microscopy was also performed.
Estudos nutricionais em junco: adubação e calagem
Authors: Hiroce Rúter , Benatti Júnior Romeu , Feitosa Celi Teixeira
Published: November 2007

Em solo hidromórfico do Vale do Ribeira, SP, conduziram-se dois ensaios de adubação N, P, K e calagem com junco-sete-ilhas (Cyperus malaccensis Lam.), sendo um em casa de vegetação e outro, em condição de campo. Em ambos, o nitrogênio foi o nutriente que provocou aumentos mais elevados na produção de matéria seca, sendo potássio o nutriente mais absorvido. O tratamento NPK mais calcário provocou a maior produção de matéria seca e plantas com hastes mais grossas. A extração de nutrientes, no tratamento completo, obedeceu à seguinte ordem decrescente: K, N, Ca, S, Mg, P, Mn, Fe, Zn, B e Cu.
Caracterização tecnológica de híbridos de sisal
Authors: Azzini Anisio , Ciaramello Dirceu , Salgado Antonio Luiz de Barros , Zullo Marco Antonio Teixeira
Published: November 2007

No presente estudo procedeu-se à caracterização tecnológica de alguns híbridos de sisal em comparação com a espécie comum (Agave sisalana Perr.), colhidos no Centro Experimental de Campinas em 1987. A densidade básica (0,172 a 0,249g/cm³) e o teor de matéria seca (16,91 a 24,82%) cresceram da base para a extremidade das folhas de sisal, contrastando com os teores de fibra têxtil (37,71 a 23,43%) e celulósica (21,75 a 14,56%), que decresceram a partir da base das folhas. As fibras celulósicas na base das folhas foram mais curtas; com maior lúmen e menor parede celular. O comprimento das fibras celulósicas do sisal comum (2,63mm) foi maior que os híbridos (1,39 a 2,09mm): estes não apresentaram superioridade tecnológica em relação ao sisal comum.
Entre o desejo e o medo: as representações sociais das adolescentes acerca da iniciação sexual
Authors: Amaral Marta Araújo , Fonseca Rosa Maria Godoy Serpa da
Published: November 2007

Este artigo apresenta um dos temas emergentes de uma pesquisa qualitativa, desenvolvida com adolescentes do sexo feminino da Vila Acaba Mundo - Belo Horizonte/MG. Teve como objetivo compreender as representações sociais das adolescentes em relação à iniciação sexual sob o recorte de gênero. Os dados foram colhidos em quatro Oficinas de Trabalho e analisados à luz da teoria das representações sociais, sendo utilizada a técnica da análise de discurso. Duas categorias empíricas emergiram dos discursos: deixar de ser criança e temor pela gravidez e suas conseqüências. O entendimento das representações sociais e das relações de gênero evidenciou valores, idéias e práticas das adolescentes e suas famílias em freqüentes transformações, dentro do campo social.
Reflexões de estudantes de enfermagem sobre morte e o morrer
Authors: Brêtas José Roberto da Silva , Oliveira José Rodrigo de , Yamaguti Lie
Published: November 2007

Trata-se da apresentação da primeira fase de uma pesquisa sobre as representações de estudantes de enfermagem sobre a morte e o morrer. A mesma tem caráter exploratório e foi realizada junto a estudantes do primeiro ano do curso de graduação em Enfermagem da Universidade Federal de São Paulo. Teve por objetivos conhecer as impressões dos estudantes acerca do assunto "morte e o morrer" e subsidiar a segunda fase da pesquisa. Foi realizada por meio de uma dinâmica com uma questão norteadora, junto ao programa da disciplina curricular Psicologia Aplicada à Saúde. Para interpretação dos dados foi utilizado o método da Análise de Conteúdo, obtendo as seguintes categorias: medo da morte; conceitos; atitude diante da morte e o morrer; crença enquanto elemento interveniente.
Treatment of ununited anconeal process in 8 dogs by osteotomy and dynamic distraction of the proximal part of the ulna
Authors: Ferrigno Cássio R.A. , Schmaedecke Alexandre , Sterman Franklin A. , Lincoln James
Published: November 2007

A surgical technique for the treatment of ununited anconeal process in dogs treated by osteotomy and dynamic distraction of the proximal part of the ulna using a linear external skeletal fixator was evaluated. In all cases the osteotomy was distracted 1mm each day after the surgery until desired distraction had been achieved. Eight dogs and 9 joints diagnosed with ununited anconeal process were treated. The success of the procedure was determined by comparing clinical signs of lameness and degree of arthrosis at the time of diagnosis to 6 months after the surgical intervention. Radiographic union occurred in 88.9% of the affected joints between 21 and 42 days after the surgical procedure. Clinically, six elbows were classified as good, two as satisfactory and one as unsatisfactory. Six months after surgery two elbows had no arthrosis, one had Grade 1, two Grade 2 and one Grade 3. It is concluded the combination of ulnar osteotomy and dynamic distraction of the olecranon by a linear external skeletal fixator is a feasible procedure for the treatment of ununited anconeal process in dogs.
Morfoanatomia e histoquímica de Brosimum gaudichaudii Trécul (Moraceae)
Authors: Jacomassi Ezilda , Moscheta Ismar Sebastião , Machado Sílvia Rodrigues
Published: November 2007

Brosimum gaudichaudii, conhecida como mamacadela, é espécie comum nos cerrados, com grande valor na medicina popular e na indústria de medicamentos. A casca da raiz e do caule é empregada no tratamento do vitiligo, sendo o bergapteno e psoraleno, duas furanocumarinas, responsáveis pela ação farmacológica. Neste trabalho são apresentadas a caracterização morfoanatômica e a histoquímica de órgãos vegetativos de B. gaudichaudii, com informações sobre o embrião e o desenvolvimento pós-seminal. Amostras foram processadas segundo técnicas usuais em anatomia e ultra-estrutura vegetal. O embrião é do tipo total e invaginado, a plântula cripto-hipogéia e o sistema radicular do tirodendro é composto por raiz primária pouco desenvolvida em relação às raízes laterais. Plantas adultas apresentam raízes gemíferas longas, plagiotrópicas originando ramos caulinares aéreos; tais raízes possuem periderme com súber desenvolvido e floema secundário abundante em relação ao xilema, sendo facilmente destacados quando manipulados. O caule jovem e a folha apresentam epiderme unisseriada, grande densidade de tricomas tectores unicelulares e tricomas glandulares. Laticíferos não-articulados ramificados ocorrem em todos os órgãos, podendo invadir os elementos de vaso. Idioblastos fenólicos ocorrem em abundância em todos tecidos e órgãos analisados. O valor das características anatômicas observadas no controle de qualidade da droga é discutido.
Phytoplanktonic associations: a tool to understanding dominance events in a tropical Brazilian reservoir
Authors: Moura Ariadne do Nascimento , Bittencourt-Oliveira Maria do Carmo , Dantas Ênio Wocyli , Arruda Neto João Dias de Toledo
Published: November 2007

The aim of this study was to characterize phytoplankton associations, as well as discuss controlling factors determining algal dominance in a eutrophic tropical reservoir, Mundaú, Pernambuco, Brazil. Water samples were collected during the dry period (January/2005) and the rainy period (June/2005). The samples were collected from both limnetic and littoral regions, and the phytoplankton assemblages identified from current literature after preservation in formaldehyde 4%. At the same time as sampling was done, in situ measurements of water temperature, transparency, dissolved oxygen, and pH were also taken. Total phosphorus, total nitrogen concentration and the Trophic State Index were subsequently determined in the laboratory. Phytoplankton density (ind. L-1) was estimated using an inverted Zeiss microscope. Grouping of the phytoplankton associations was carried out using the Reynolds phytosociological classification. During the dry period, reservoir water showed low dissolved oxygen concentrations, alkaline pH and was relatively turbid compared to the situation during the rainy season. Reservoir water is limited by nitrogen during both seasonal periods. The Trophic State Index is classified as determining eutrophic conditions. Phytoplankton was represented by 70 infrageneric taxa grouped in 16 functional associations, with the majority typical of eutrophic systems. This fact is supported by quantitative analysis, which shows the dominance of S associations comprising exclusively R-strategist cyanobacteria.
Diabetes mellitus tipo 1 no contexto familiar e social
Authors: Góes Anna Paula P. , Vieira Maria Rita R. , Liberatore Júnior Raphael Del Roio
Published: November 2007

OBJETIVO: Identificar as dificuldades da criança com diabetes mellitus tipo 1 no convívio diário com familiares e com a sociedade, enfocando aspectos relativos à alimentação e ao tratamento. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, realizado por meio de questionário semi-estruturado aplicado a pais e crianças com diabetes mellitus tipo 1, acompanhados pelo Grupo de Diabetes mellitus do Ambulatório de Pediatria da Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto (Famerp), São Paulo. Foram estudadas 13 crianças, coletando-se dados demográficos e aspectos relativos às dificuldades no controle da doença. RESULTADOS: As características do grupo de crianças estudadas foram: gênero feminino (77%), idade entre oito e 12 anos (77%), brancas (77%), católicas (61%) e com antecedentes familiares de diabetes (54%). Como dificuldades foram citadas: o custo de alimentos especiais; o medo do desconhecido; ter que aprender sobre a doença rapidamente; ter vergonha de ter diabetes. Do total de crianças, 23% estavam aprendendo a aplicar insulina e 46% dos pacientes seguiam a orientação alimentar. A mãe foi o parente mais próximo que auxiliava a criança no tratamento em 69% dos casos. A hiperglicemia foi relatada por 62% das crianças, sendo detectada apenas após a realização da glicemia capilar. CONCLUSÕES: O presente trabalho salienta a importância de campanhas para orientar os pais sobre o controle da doença, os fatores associados ao desenvolvimento da doença e a necessidade de identificar os sintomas de hiperglicemia e a terapêutica alimentar, a fim de minimizar riscos futuros.
Freqüência de síndrome metabólica em crianças e adolescentes com sobrepeso e obesidade
Authors: Buff Caroline de Gouveia , Ramos Eliete , Souza Fabíola Isabel S. , Sarni Roseli Oselka S.
Published: November 2007

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a freqüência de síndrome metabólica em crianças e adolescentes com sobrepeso ou obesos, além de relacionar a sua presença com variáveis socioeconômicas, atividade física e risco cardiovascular familiar. MÉTODOS: Por meio de estudo transversal, 59 pacientes com sobrepeso/obesidade, matriculados em ambulatório universitário, foram avaliados entre janeiro de 2004 e junho de 2006. Coletaram-se os seguintes dados: nível socioeconômico, escolaridade materna, risco cardiovascular familiar e atividade física. Utilizou-se o percentil do índice de massa corpórea (IMC) para classificar a condição nutricional. Considerou-se síndrome metabólica quando presentes três ou mais das seguintes alterações: triglicérides (>110mg/dL), HDL-c (<40mg/dL), circunferência abdominal (> percentil 90), resistência insulínica (glicemia >100mg/dL) e pressão arterial (> percentil 90). A análise estatística foi descritiva. RESULTADOS: Dos pacientes, 52,5% eram do gênero masculino e a média de idade foi 10,9±0,5 anos. A síndrome metabólica esteve presente em 42,4%. Inadequações das variáveis que compõem a síndrome metabólica foram observadas em 88,1% para a circunferência abdominal; 47,5% com hipertensão arterial; 23,7% com resistência insulínica; 42,4% com aumento dos triglicérides e 6,8% com elevação do HDL-c. Não se observou associação estatisticamente significante entre síndrome metabólica e gênero, idade, desenvolvimento puberal, renda per capita, escolaridade materna, horas de televisão/dia, horas de atividade física ou risco cardiovascular familiar. CONCLUSÕES: É alta a prevalência de síndrome metabólica em crianças e adolescentes obesos avaliados e, dentre os seus componentes, a circunferência abdominal e a pressão arterial elevadas são as mais freqüentes.
Ruralidade e mulheres responsáveis por domicílios no Norte e no Nordeste
Authors: Scott Russell Parry
Published: November 2007

A comparação de mulheres como responsáveis de domicílios no Norte e no Nordeste revela efeitos de diferenciação de gênero e de histórias divergentes de migração. Como em todo o Brasil, essas mulheres têm mais instrução e menos renda que os homens responsáveis por domicílios. Fazem uso extensivo de ingressos da seguridade social, especialmente nas áreas rurais. Elas assumem mais a chefia ou quando são adolescentes, ou, muito mais, quando passam da idade de 45 anos. Recorrem mais intensivamente que homens às suas redes de relações ampliadas para inclusão de outros nas suas casas. No Norte, comparado com o Brasil e o Nordeste, com maior presença de imigração masculina, há menos mulheres chefes, em geral, e especialmente no campo. Relativamente, têm instrução superior à dos homens responsáveis. Nas suas casas há mais pessoas que nas de mulheres responsáveis em outras regiões. Só ocasionalmente moram sozinhas. No Nordeste, com uma história de emigração, as mulheres responsáveis são muito mais numerosas, em geral, com particular força no campo. A sua instrução não é tão superior à dos homens quanto à das mulheres no Norte. Elas residem sozinhas com mais freqüência e há pouca diferença no número de pessoas entre casas nas áreas urbanas e rurais.
Identidade e subjetividade numa era de incerteza
Authors: Ewald Ariane Patrícia , Soares Jorge Coelho
Published: November 2007

Este artigo se propõe a percorrer, seguindo uma trilha de reflexão transdisciplinar, os caminhos de construção do que conhecemos como a noção de pessoa, sob a qual subentendemos a existência de conceitos como subjetividade e identidade. Os autores procuram romper as fronteiras tradicionais entre os diversos saberes, que tentam dar conta do homem e seus novos dilemas, no contexto histórico da modernidade tardia, aqui tratada como hipermodernidade. Nesta sociedade que se vê, se constrói e se apresenta como globalizada, os autores colocam seu foco nas artimanhas da construção das novas identidades em contextos multiculturais, nos quais novas possibilidades de ser e estar no mundo convivem com novas formas de tensão e resistência social.
A gênese do conceito freudiano de inconsciente
Authors: Gomes Gilberto
Published: November 2007

Durante toda sua obra, Freud concebe os processos psíquicos como derivados da atividade do cérebro. Aqui é proposta uma reconstituição dos passos inferenciais (constituindo uma seqüência lógica e não cronológica), possibilitados por essa concepção psiconeural, que levaram (sob a influência dos fatos clínicos) ao conceito psicanalítico de inconsciente. Os processos neurofisiológicos subjacentes ao psíquico devem possuir complexidade suficiente para justificar as propriedades psíquicas conhecidas pela consciência. Para Freud, a consciência é uma espécie de percepção interna de processos psíquicos. Como a consciência não é inerente a esses processos, torna-se natural imaginar que eles possam também ocorrer sem serem percebidos (processos pré-conscientes). O conceito de inconsciente propriamente dito também se mostra tributário de sua concepção psiconeural.
Adesão ao tratamento clínico no transtorno de personalidade borderline
Authors: Tanesi Patrícia Helena Vaz , Yazigi Latife , Fiore Maria Luiza de Mattos , Pitta José Cássio do Nascimento
Published: November 2007

Adesão é um comportamento complexo, envolve desde pequenas recusas ao tratamento até o uso inadequado dos serviços de saúde e abandono do tratamento. O presente trabalho é um estudo qualitativo com seis pacientes com transtorno de personalidade borderline sobre adesão ao tratamento, utilizando análise qualitativa em entrevista aberta, questionário psicossocial, classificação diagnóstica pela SCID I e II e acompanhamento clínico. Os resultados mostraram que impulsividade, manipulação, dissociação afetiva, tentativa de suicídio, tendência à regressão e agressividade dificultaram ou impossibilitaram a adesão ao tratamento. Concluímos que os casos que abandonaram o tratamento colocaram a equipe em uma situação de impotência e apelo para estratégias sociais como forma de manejo da situação. É levantada a hipótese de que familiares saudáveis podem ser importantes para a adesão ao tratamento. Nos casos que não abandonaram o acompanhamento, a não-adesão se manifestou como ataques ao vínculo, ataques a melhora, e agressividade voltada à equipe e à instituição.
The sensorial structures of Spondylus americanus Hermann,1781 (Mollusca: Bivalvia, Spondylidae)
Authors: Viana Marina Gomes , Rocha-Barreira Cristina de Almeida
Published: November 2007

Adult animals of Spondylus americanus were analyzed and specialized sensorial structures, the sensorial papillae and the eyes, were characterized. The sensorial papillae were projections on the edge of the mantle in form of light brown fingers which had function of percepting stimulus coming from the medium. They were constituted by loose conjunctive tissues with longitudinal muscular fibers and externally covered by ciliated cubic epithelium, which presented high amount of melanocytes that gave the coloration of the papillae. The eyes were more complex, being on small stalks histologically similar to the papillae. They exhibited a circular formate and had a metallic blue color. Theses structures were constituted by a corneo epithelium, cornea, lens, retina, basal stalk, periocular band and optical nerve. The eyes were distributed asymmetrically to both valves related with the sedentarism of the species. Right valve presented a smaller number of eyes when compared to left one.
Investigation of toxic factors affecting cells of rat brains exposed to 3-methylcatechol
Authors: Barreto George Emílio Sampaio , Oliveira Elineusa Silva de , Villar Flávio Augusto Guerreiro Aragão de , Santos Gleide Souza dos , Lima Rute Maria Ferreira , Costa Silvia Lima , Costa Maria de Fátima Dias , Egito Eryvaldo Sócrates Tabosa , El-Bachá Ramon Santos
Published: November 2007

The aim of this work was to study the effects of 3MC on the peroxidation of biomolecules in nuclear fractions and nonsynaptic mitochondrial respiration in organelles obtained from rat brains. The cytotoxicity towards rat primary astrocytes in vitro was also tested. 3MC at 1mM oxidized consuming oxygen at a rate of 1.98 ± 0.19 µM.min-1 and formed reactive quinones. At the same concentration, 3MC induced peroxidation of biomolecules in nuclear fractions obtained from rat brain homogenates and inhibited state 2 FADH2-linked respiration in nonsynaptic mitochondria. Furthermore, 3MC oxidized in the culture medium, leading to the formation of quinones. This toluene metabolite was cytotoxic to rat primary astrocytes. The concentration that killed 50% of cells after 72 h was 107 mM. The results of the study indicated a direct relationship between cytotoxicity and 3MC oxidation.
Ácaros predadores (Acari) associados à cultura do morango (Fragaria sp., Rosaceae) e plantas próximas no Estado do Rio Grande do Sul
Authors: Ferla Noeli Juarez , Marchetti Marla Maria , Gonçalves Dinarte
Published: November 2007

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar as espécies de ácaros predadores associados à cultura do morango e em plantas associadas, no estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Este estudo foi conduzido nos municípios de Bom Princípio, Capitão e Lajeado em plantações de morango da variedade Oso Grande em túnel baixo. As avaliações foram feitas mensalmente entre agosto de 2002 e março de 2004. Nas plantas de morango, as amostras foram constituídas de três folhas coletadas em cada uma das 15 plantas escolhidas ao acaso, totalizando 45 folhas/campo. Nas plantas associadas, o esforço de amostragem foi de uma hora para cada planta avaliada. Ácaros das famílias Ascidae, Parasitidae, Phytoseiidae, Cunaxidae, Erythraeidae, Stigmaeidae e Tydeidae foram observados associados com o ácaro rajado, Tetranychus urticae Koch, 1836, praga importante na região onde este estudo foi conduzido. Vinte espécies foram identificadas, 14 das quais pertencem à família Phytoseiidae. Phytoseiulus macropilis (Banks, 1905) e Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor, 1954) foram as espécies mais comuns. Nas plantas asssociadas, a maior diversidade foi observada em Richardia sp. (seis espécies), Agerantum conyzoides L.(quatro espécies) e Sonchus oleraceus L., Bidens pilosa L.e Rumex sp. (três espécies). Uma chave docotômica é apresentada para a identificação das espécies.
First confirmed record of Feresa attenuata (Delphinidae) for the Northern Brazilian Coast
Authors: Magalhães Fagner Augusto de , Garri Rosana Griselda , Tosi Carolina Herédia , Siciliano Salvatore , Chellappa Sathyabama , Silva Flavio José de Llima
Published: November 2007

In Brazil only one confirmed stranding is known from an emaciated specimen collected along the southeastern coast. The aim of this work is to report a recent record of a pygmy killer whale from the coast of Maranhão State, northern Brazil. On 22 October 2005, through regular surveys conducted by Projeto Cetáceos do Maranhão team, a beach-worn skull of a pygmy killer whale was found on the Mangue Seco beach, at Caju Island, Maranhão State. The specimen was identified through peculiar features, such as a short beak, 11 teeth per row in the maxile and the distance between the anterorbital notch and the end of the toothrow. This stranding suggests that pygmy killer whales may use oceanic waters close to Maranhão continental shelf. This is the second confirmed stranding of F. attenuata for the Brazilian Coast and the first along the northern coast. The present record increases our poor knowledge on the cetacean fauna of the northern Brazilian coast.
EBV-1 and HCMV in aggressive periodontitis in Brazilian patients
Authors: Watanabe Soraia Almeida , Correia-Silva Jeane de Fátima , Horta Martinho Campolina Rebello , Costa José Eustáquio da , Gomez Ricardo Santiago
Published: November 2007

The purpose of the present investigation was to compare the presence of Epstein-Barr virus type 1 (EBV-1) and of Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in crevicular fluid samples from deep and shallow periodontal pocket sites of Brazilian patients with aggressive periodontitis. A total of 30 systemically healthy patients with aggressive periodontitis participated in the study. Paper points were inserted into 2 gingivitis sites (< 3 mm) and into 2 periodontitis sites (> 5 mm) in each patient. PCR assay was used to identify genomic copies of HCMV and EBV-1. Twenty-three patients (77%) were positive for EBV-1, while only 2 patients (6%) were positive for HCMV. The McNemar test revealed a positive association between EBV-1 and periodontal lesions (p = 0.043). Thirty-four (57%) out of 60 periodontitis sites were positive for EBV-1, whereas 18 (30%) gingivitis sites were positive (p = 0.01). Only two sites (6.7%) were positive for HCMV. No positive association was found between HCMV and periodontitis or gingivitis (p = 0.479). The elevated occurrence of EBV-1 DNA in periodontal pockets of patients with aggressive periodontitis supports a possible periodontopathic role of this virus.
Quality of life in patients submitted to surgical treatment for minor salivary gland neoplasms
Authors: Hirota Sílvio Kenji , Penha Sibele Sarti , Lehn Carlos Neutzling , Sugaya Norberto Nobuo , Migliari Dante Antônio
Published: November 2007

This study was aimed at assessing the quality of life in patients submitted to surgical treatment for minor salivary gland neoplasms (MSGN). Twelve patients (10 women and 2 men, mean age: 49.4 years) with histopathologic diagnosis of pleomorphic adenoma (PA, 3 cases), polymorphous low-grade adenocarcinoma (PLGA, 2 cases), cystic adenoid carcinoma (CAC, 4 cases), and muco-epidermoid carcinoma (MEC, 3 cases) were evaluated. All of them were treated by surgical excision; patients with CAC received radiotherapy as well. The patients’ quality of life was evaluated through a self-administered questionnaire concerning their physical well-being, emotional status, normal daily activities, and family relationships. The results showed that patients with MEC - the youngest among all patients - reported a significantly greater worsening of their physical well-being and emotional status after treatment as compared with patients treated for PA (P < 0.05), and also of their functional activities as compared with those treated for PA and PLGA (P < 0.05). In conclusion, age of development of the neoplasm and type of disease produce more impact on patients’ quality of life than does the therapy’s degree of aggression.
Clustering effects in solution‐based nanoparticle/template hybrid coatings
Authors: Phadke Sarika , Stanley Jerome B. , Sorge Judith D. , Birnie Dunbar P.
Published: November 2007

Abstract— Templating processes with monodisperse polystyrene particles are being explored for a number of application areas, especially in microelectronics and optics. Classically, these depend on rather slow‐drying steps that allow for the polystyrene particles to gradually situate themselves into ordered arrays and patterns. On the other hand, many manufacturing processes are designed to operate much more rapidly (spin‐coating, roll‐coating, spray‐coating, etc.). The present work investigates the behavior of nanoparticle(titania)‐microparticle (polystyrene) hybrid solutions when processed with these rapid techniques. Very thin coatings were examined where the larger‐template particle‐particle interactions can be quantifiably observed and measured. This gives us insight into the conditions when structural order might be achievable in materials systems using these rapid, industrially important, coating techniques. The specific system that was investigated involves nanoscale titanium dioxide particles combined with monodisperse micron‐scale polystyrene template particles aimed at building flexible dye‐sensitized solar cells. For this application, the formation of strong physical networks of titanium dioxide nanoparticles with percolating interparticle channels for the electrolyte phase to reach all surfaces where dye molecules will reside is required.
The Utility of Staying on Message: Competing Partisan Frames and Public Awareness of Elite Differences on Political Issues
Authors: Wagner Michael W.
Published: November 2007

Pundits, journalists, and citizens alike often bristle at the idea of politicians ``staying on message," believing that the practice undermines democracy. Scholars have had little to say with respect to whether the issue frames the news media report politicians using to characterize public questions affect how individuals view political battles between Republicans and Democrats over time. In this paper, I explore how the consistency with which partisan political elites frame issues influences whether individuals see important differences between the two major parties. Examinations of content analysis of Newsweek's coverage of three issues (abortion, tax, and energy policies) from 1975-2000 suggest that as the two parties provide increasingly internally homogenous, but externally competitive issue frames, individuals are more likely to believe there is more than the proverbial ``dime's worth of difference" between the two major parties. The evidence supports Sniderman and Bullock's(2004) theory of ``menu dependence" in American politics.
Political Orders and Political Eras in France: Can There be a Sarkozy Era?
Authors: Appleton Andrew
Published: November 2007

This article reviews evidence bearing upon the question of political orders and eras in recent French politics. It places this evidence against the legacy of revolutionary republicanism, with its idealized version of political identity and citizenship. Looking at social cleavages, intermediary organizations, and political institutions, the article finds that there has been a constant evolution over the course of the Fifth Republic. At the level of fundamental policy debate, there has also been an evolution, although rather more mitigated. The article concludes by considering the opportunities for a new political direction afforded to the incoming president elected in May 2007, Nicholas Sarkozy. It argues that the diminution of the power of the central state, coupled with a new sense of political competition at all levels, means that the possibility of a neoliberal era is very real.
Fair Trade Labeling: Inside or Outside Supermarkets?
Authors: Poret Sylvaine , Chambolle Claire
Published: November 2007

This article is a theoretical contribution to the debate surrounding the introduction of Fair Trade products into large-scale retail distribution. In the model, a Fair Trade certifier and a traditional producer compete to supply their product to a single retailer, consumers who are Fair Trade likers are willing to pay an "ethical" premium for the Fair Trade product, and the premium depends on the revenue of Fair Trade product producers. The conditions of existence of an equilibrium where the Fair Trade product coexists with the traditional brand product on the retailer's shelves are highlighted. In particular, we show that a Fair Trade certifier implements this equilibrium if his preferences are such that the weight devoted to the price paid to producers is smaller than the weight he grants to the quantities of Fair Trade product sold. We also show that a retailer's decision to sell the Fair Trade product is not based on the percentage of consumers who are willing to pay for it, but on how much the Fair Trade likers are willing to pay.
Optimization of Radial Flow Reactors of Styrene Production
Authors: Abdollahi Farzad , Mostoufi Navid , Sotudeh-Gharebagh Rahmat
Published: November 2007

A mathematical model is developed to optimize the performance of the radial flow reactors of styrene production through an oxidative reheat process. The model integrates the hydrodynamic configuration of the reactors with the underlying chemical reactions where the kinetic expressions were found in the literature. The predictions of the model were compared with the actual plant data and satisfactory results were obtained. In order to optimize the performance of the plant, a combination of yield and selectivity styrene was adopted as the objective function. The global criterion multi-objective method using Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm was used in order to search for the optimal solution of the process. Three main process variables, i.e., the flow rate of steam injected to the second and third reactor and the fraction of oxygen injected to the secondary injection port of the second reactor, were determined in the optimization. The results show that the optimal operating conditions may lead to 2.6 % increase in the styrene yield and 1.5% increase in styrene selectivity, which significantly improves the profitability of the whole styrene production process.
Approximation of Reaction Heat Effects in Cylindrical Catalyst Particles with Internal Voids Using CFD
Authors: Taskin M. Ertan , Dixon Anthony G. , Stitt E. Hugh , Nijemeisland Michiel
Published: November 2007

Steam reforming reaction heat effects were implemented in CFD simulations of different packed tube models of 1-hole and 4-hole cylinders. A computationally less expensive 120° wall segment approach was utilized for the simulations in this study. Heat effects of the reactions were introduced by heat generation/consumption terms in the catalyst particles considering suitable reaction kinetics proposed in the literature. Due to strong diffusion limitations the activity of the catalyst particles is confined to a thin layer at the particle surface. Therefore, the energetic effects of the reactions were restricted to the outer 5% of the particle dimension by a user-defined code. The selection of the correct active region was verified for both the particle external and internalhole surfaces. Simulation results of the reaction heat effects were qualitatively and quantitatively compared to cold flow cases where there were no heat effects but only tube wall heat transfer. Due to the endothermic nature of the reactions, relatively lower temperature fields were observed when the heat effects were introduced, where the positions of the solid particles play an important role. The implications of introducing the detailed reaction heat effects were emphasized in the development of suitable packed tube models.
Modeling and Simulation of Catalytic Distillation Column for Esterification of Acetic Acid with Methanol
Authors: Chandrakar Anil Kumar , Agarwal Vijay K. , Chand Shri , Wasewar Kailas L.
Published: November 2007

The present investigation pertains to a theoretical study of simulation of a multicomponent catalytic distillation column. Basically it deals with the development of a mathematical model for esterification of acetic acid with methanol by using a packed column with two different feed setups: a single feed column and a two feed column. The reaction kinetics has been assumed to be heterogeneous. It also includes the solution technique for the solution of the model. An in-house code in C++ has been developed to solve the model equations. Further, the comparison of the model has been done with available experimental data. Finally the effect of design variables namely- reflux ratio, feed tray location, and start of reactive section have been studied.
Partial Purification and Characterization of Polyphenol Oxidase Extracted from Agaricus bisporus (J.E.Lange) Imbach
Authors: Gouzi Hicham , Benmansour Abdelhafid
Published: November 2007

Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) from mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus (J.E.Lange) Imbach) was partially purified and characterized. The enzyme exhibited both monophenolase and diphenolase activities that were measured spectrophotometrically using L-tyrosine and pyrogallol as substrates. A two-fold purification in both activities was achieved by ammonium sulfate fractionation. The monophenolase activity was 3.35 EU/ml, and the diphenolase activity was 189.3 EU/ml. PPO was relatively stable at -15°C for 44 days. The enzyme was not very heat stable, and its activity decreased when incubated at the temperatures higher than 35°C. PPO activity showed two pH optima, at 5.3 and 7.0 at 25°C when pyrogallol was used as the substrate.Mono-, di- and triphenols were substrates for PPO. Using Vmax/Km as a specificity constant, pyrocatechol was the better substrate followed by pyrogallol. The kinetic parameters of the enzyme were: Vmax = 78 EU/min/ml, Km = 1.4 mM and KS = 250 mM for pyrogallol and Vmax = 168 EU/min/ml, Km = 0.40 mM and KS = 270 mM for the pyrocatechol. Of the inhibitors tested, competitive-type inhibition was observed with benzoic acid and sodium azide. A mixed-type inhibition was observed with L-cysteine and sodium fluoride.
Recovery of Sulfur Dioxide Using Non-Dispersive Absorption
Authors: Luis Patricia , Ortiz Inmaculada , Aldaco Rubén , Garea Aurora , Irabien Ángel
Published: November 2007

Removal of SO2 from gas emissions by selective absorption into a liquid is a common method to reduce air pollution and environmental risks. The absorption efficiency is determined by the interaction between the gases and the liquid. A great number of gas desulphurization methods have been developed where aqueous or organic solvents are used as sorbents.N,N-dimethylaniline (DMA) is an organic solvent used in the industry because its affinity with SO2. This absorption is neither too strong nor too weak, thus absorption and desorption can occur leading to a regenerative process where SO2 can be recovered. However, a direct contact between SO2 and DMA leads to several environmental problems caused by solvent evaporation and drops dragging into the gas stream.In order to increase the process efficiency and reduce environmental risks, a non-dispersive absorption process using hollow fibre membrane modules is developed in this work for a solvent zero emission process. The mass transfer into a fibre may be described by three main assumptions: gas-phase laminar flow, gas-phase plug-flow and gas-phase mixing. A numerical calculation was carried out to establish the performance of a hollow fibre membrane contactor for the removal of SO2 when water and N,N-dimethylaniline are used as sorbents in order to compare both, wetted and non-wetted operating modes.
Degradation of an Azo Dye by Fenton Type Processes Assisted with UV Irradiation
Authors: Koprivanac Natalija , Vujevic Dinko
Published: November 2007

Organic synthetic dyes are widely produced and used today. Significant losses of organic and inorganic content occurs during the manufacturing and application of dyes and its discharge in the effluent presents a threat to the eco-systems due to general toxicity and resistance to destruction by biological treatment methods. Particularly azo dyes are of special environmental concern due to their degradation products such as aromatic amines, which are considered highly carcinogenic. So, dyes have to be removed from coloured wastewater before discharge. However, traditional treatment methods (adsorption, coagulation/flocculation) mainly transfer the contaminants from wastewater to secondary waste. Therefore, advanced oxidation processes seem to be sustainable and clean technology to decolorize and minimize organic dyes content from wastewater. In this paper, degradation of an azo dye C.I. Direct Orange 39 (DO39) using Fenton type processes (Fe2+/H2O2, Fe3+/H2O2and Fe0/H2O2) has been performed. The molar ratio of Fentons type reagents has been varied in the range of 1 : 5 up to 1 : 50 at 0.5 and 1.0 mM concentrations of iron salts and iron powder. Experiments have been conducted for two hours in a batch reactor with magnetic stirring, ambient conditions and pH 3. The process efficiency and formation of degradation by-products have been determined on the basis of results obtained by UV/VIS spectrophotometric, total organic carbon (TOC) and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses. The optimal Fenton and Fenton ``like" processes parameters have been applied in the photo reactor, too. It has been observed that simultaneous utilization of UV irradiation with Fenton's and Fenton ``like" reagents increases the degradation of DO39 dye. Degradation of the dye in dilute aqueous solution follows pseudo-first order kinetics. The maximal decolourization of 20 mg L-1 DO39 in water of 93.2% and TOC degradation of 76.9% were obtained using Fe3+/H2O2= 1 : 5 molar ratio. The results indicate that the treatment of DO39 dye wastewater with UV/Fe3 +/H2O2 system was found to be the most efficient.
Value-Added Processing of Lactose: Preparation of Bioactive Lactobionic Acid Using a Novel Catalytic Method
Authors: Belkacemi Khaled , Cristea Vlad Mirela , Hamoudi Safia , Arul Joseph
Published: November 2007

The microaerial oxidation of an aqueous solution of lactose to lactonionic acid (LBA) over the heterogeneous bimetallic catalyst Bi-Pd supported on mesoporous SBA-15 material was carried out in an agitated semi-batch reactor in alkaline medium within the pH range of 7 to 9.The present work focused on the synthesis and characterization of the bimetallic catalyst as well as optimization of the reaction operating conditions. To this purpose, the effect of both active metals loading on the support, metal/lactose ratio, reaction pH and dissolved oxygen concentration on the oxidation performances was examined at a very mild temperature of 65 oC.The bimetallic catalyst 1.02%Pd, 0.64%Bi/SBA-15, (Bi/Pd molar ratio of 0.3) showed the highest activity (96 % lactose conversion) and 100 % selectivity towards the targeted LBA product. Furthermore, the formulated catalyst proved to be stable in the reaction medium as both metals leaching was insignificant. Based on XRD and XPS analyses, it is suggested that the metals constituting the bimetallic catalyst active sites assemble into an intermetallic alloy having Bi1.75Pd stoichiometry.