bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Other Side of Perspective Taking
Authors: Okimoto Tyler G. , Wenzel Michael
Published: December 2010

The current investigation examined the untested effects of perspective taking on revenge. After taking the perspective of their offender (or not), victims of an experimentally induced injustice were given the opportunity to exact revenge. When the violation was ambiguous, perspective taking resulted in favorable attribution biases and reduced revenge. In contrast, perspective taking increased desires for revenge when the violation was clear. Both effects were apparent only for victims with a high interdependent self-construal, suggesting that they are motivated by the desire to condemn moral threats to one’s social self-concept, either by attributing the offender’s immoral actions to an external cause (decreased revenge) or taking a stand against the offender’s immorality (increased revenge).
Prevalence and Comorbidities of Somatoform Disorders in a Rural California Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic
Authors: Ng Bernardo , Tomfohr Lianne M. , Camacho Al , Dimsdale Joel E.
Published: December 2010

Objective: This study examines the prevalence and comorbidities of somatoform disorders in a rural setting with a diverse ethnic population. Method: A retrospective chart review was conducted of active psychiatric outpatients in a clinic located in a rural community. Data abstracted included demographic variables, multi-axial diagnoses (DSM-IV-TR), length of treatment, psychotropic medications, and number of medications discontinued because of side effects. Improvement in level of function with treatment was measured by change in global assessment of functioning (GAF) scores. Results: Of 737 records reviewed, 37 (5%) contained a diagnosis of somatoform disorder. The most common comorbidities in the somatoform group were depression ( P < .01), hypertension ( P < .01), and arthritis ( P < .05). The somatoform group was significantly more likely to have a chronic medical illness ( P < .01) and history of surgeries ( P < .05). The somatoform group patients’ ΔGAF was one fourth the ΔGAF scores in all other psychiatric outpatients (1.41 vs 6.79, P < .01). The somatoform group changed medications more often because of side effects (1.35 times vs 0.71 times, P < .01), received a greater number of psychotropic medications (2.05 vs 1.62, P < .05), and was more likely to be taking an antidepressant ( P < .05) than the nonsomatoform group. Conclusion: Somatoform disorder patients had a higher prevalence of depression, chronic medical conditions, and surgeries. They responded less favorably to treatment when compared to patients without a somatoform disorder, and manifested a decreased tolerance to medication side effects. Female gender, fewer years of education, and Latino ethnicity did not increase the probability of having a somatoform disorder.
Prenatal Androgenization of Female Mice Programs an Increase in Firing Activity of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Neurons That Is Reversed by Metformin Treatment in Adulthood
Authors: Roland Alison V. , Moenter Suzanne M.
Published: December 2010

Prenatal androgenization (PNA) of female mice with dihydrotestosterone programs reproductive dysfunction in adulthood, characterized by elevated luteinizing hormone levels, irregular estrous cycles, and central abnormalities. Here, we evaluated activity of GnRH neurons from PNA mice and the effects of in vivo treatment with metformin, an activator of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) that is commonly used to treat the fertility disorder polycystic ovary syndrome. Estrous cycles were monitored in PNA and control mice before and after metformin administration. Before metformin, cycles were longer in PNA mice and percent time in estrus lower; metformin normalized cycles in PNA mice. Extracellular recordings were used to monitor GnRH neuron firing activity in brain slices from diestrous mice. Firing rate was higher and quiescence lower in GnRH neurons from PNA mice, demonstrating increased GnRH neuron activity. Metformin treatment of PNA mice restored firing activity and LH to control levels. To assess whether AMPK activation contributed to the metformin-induced reduction in GnRH neuron activity, the AMPK antagonist compound C was acutely applied to cells. Compound C stimulated cells from metformin-treated, but not untreated, mice, suggesting that AMPK was activated in GnRH neurons, or afferent neurons, in the former group. GnRH neurons from metformin-treated mice also showed a reduced inhibitory response to low glucose. These studies indicate that PNA causes enhanced firing activity of GnRH neurons and elevated LH that are reversible by metformin, raising the possibility that central AMPK activation by metformin may play a role in its restoration of reproductive cycles in polycystic ovary syndrome.
Leptin Activates a Novel CNS Mechanism for Insulin-Independent Normalization of Severe Diabetic Hyperglycemia
Authors: German Jonathan P. , Thaler Joshua P. , Wisse Brent E. , Oh-I Shinsuke , Sarruf David A. , Matsen Miles E. , Fischer Jonathan D. , Taborsky Gerald J. , Schwartz Michael W. , Morton Gregory J.
Published: December 2010

The brain has emerged as a target for the insulin-sensitizing effects of several hormonal and nutrient-related signals. The current studies were undertaken to investigate mechanisms whereby leptin lowers circulating blood glucose levels independently of insulin. After extending previous evidence that leptin infusion directly into the lateral cerebral ventricle ameliorates hyperglycemia in rats with streptozotocin-induced uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, we showed that the underlying mechanism is independent of changes of food intake, urinary glucose excretion, or recovery of pancreatic β-cells. Instead, leptin action in the brain potently suppresses hepatic glucose production while increasing tissue glucose uptake despite persistent, severe insulin deficiency. This leptin action is distinct from its previously reported effect to increase insulin sensitivity in the liver and offers compelling evidence that the brain has the capacity to normalize diabetic hyperglycemia in the presence of sufficient amounts of central nervous system leptin.
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Antagonizes Estrogen Up-Regulation of Brain Mitochondrial Function
Authors: Irwin Ronald W. , Yao Jia , Ahmed Syeda S. , Hamilton Ryan T. , Cadenas Enrique , Brinton Roberta Diaz
Published: December 2010

The impact of clinical progestins used in contraception and hormone therapies on the metabolic capacity of the brain has long-term implications for neurological health in pre- and postmenopausal women. Previous analyses indicated that progesterone and 17β-estradiol (E2) sustain and enhance brain mitochondrial energy-transducing capacity. Herein we determined the impact of the clinical progestin, medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), on glycolysis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function in brain. Ovariectomized female rats were treated with MPA, E2, E2+MPA, or vehicle with ovary-intact rats serving as a positive control. MPA alone and MPA plus E2 resulted in diminished mitochondrial protein levels for pyruvate dehydrogenase, cytochrome oxidase, ATP synthase, manganese-superoxide dismutase, and peroxiredoxin V. MPA alone did not rescue the ovariectomy-induced decrease in mitochondrial bioenergetic function, whereas the coadministration of E2 and MPA exhibited moderate efficacy. However, the coadministration of MPA was detrimental to antioxidant defense, including manganese-superoxide dismutase activity/expression and peroxiredoxin V expression. Accumulated lipid peroxides were cleared by E2 treatment alone but not in combination with MPA. Furthermore, MPA abolished E2-induced enhancement of mitochondrial respiration in primary cultures of the hippocampal neurons and glia. Collectively these findings indicate that the effects of MPA differ significantly from the bioenergetic profile induced by progesterone and that, overall, MPA induced a decline in glycolytic and oxidative phosphorylation protein and activity. These preclinical findings on the basis of acute exposure to MPA raise concerns regarding neurological health after chronic use of MPA in contraceptive and hormone therapy.
Hyperadiponectinemia Is Independent of Kidney Function, Diabetes Duration, and Control in Type 1 Diabetic Patients without Microangiopathy
Authors: Abi Khalil Charbel , Mohammedi Kamel , Aubert Roberte , Abou Jaoude Elizabeth , Travert Florence , Hadjadj Samy , Fumeron Frédéric , Roussel Ronan , Marre Michel
Published: December 2010

Introduction:

High total adiponectin (ADPN) levels were reported in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and related to long diabetes duration and nephropathy. We studied whether ADPN and its specific isoforms were elevated in T1D without microangiopathy and whether they were related to kidney function.

Materials and Methods:

Total, high, medium, and low molecular weight ADPN and insulin levels were measured in 47 consecutive normoalbuminuric, normotensive T1D patients without retinopathy and in 47 age-, sex-, and body mass index-matched controls. Glomerular filtration rate was estimated by 51Cr-EDTA plasma clearance.

Results:

Total and high molecular weight ADPN ratio were higher in T1D patients than in controls. ADPN levels were not related to anthropometric measures, whereas they were in controls. In T1D, ADPN levels were not related to glycosylated hemoglobin, diabetes duration, or glomerular filtration rate. Peripheral insulin levels were higher in T1D patients than in controls, but they were not related to ADPN levels. In controls, insulin levels were positively related to total ADPN.

Conclusion:

In T1D without microangiopathy, high ADPN levels could not be related to anthropometric diabetes parameters, kidney function, or high insulin levels. The nature of this elevation remains unknown.
Loss of p38γ MAPK induces pleiotropic mitotic defects and massive cell death
Authors: Kukkonen-Macchi Anu , Sicora Oana , Kaczynska Katarzyna , Oetken-Lindholm Christina , Pouwels Jeroen , Laine Leena , Kallio Marko J.
Published: December 2010

The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) family, which is comprised of four protein isoforms, p38α, p38β, p38γ and p38δ, forms one of the key MAPK pathways. The p38 MAPKs are implicated in many cellular processes including inflammation, differentiation, cell growth, cell cycle and cell death. The function of p38 MAPKs in mitotic entry has been well established, but their role in mitotic progression has remained controversial. We identify p38γ MAPK as a modulator of mitotic progression and mitotic cell death. In HeLa cells, loss of p38γ results in multipolar spindle formation and chromosome misalignment, which induce a transient M phase arrest. The majority of p38γ-depleted cells die at mitotic arrest or soon after abnormal exit from M-phase. We show that p38 MAPKs are activated at the kinetochores and spindle poles throughout mitosis by kinase(s) that are stably bound to these structures. Finally, p38γ is required for the normal kinetochore localization of polo-like kinase 1 (Plk1), and this contributes to the activity of the p38 MAPK pathway. Our data suggest a link between mitotic regulation and the p38 MAPK pathway, in which p38γ prevents chromosomal instability and supports mitotic cell viability.
Creation of Hierarchical Polysaccharide Strand: Supramolecular Spinning of Nanofibers by Microfluidic Device
Authors: Numata Munenori , Takigami Yusuke , Takayama Momoko
Published: December 2010

We have demonstrated that the creation of hierarchical polysaccharide architectures can be achieved by using a fluidic liquid–liquid interface as a dynamic template for the supramolecular spinning of polysaccharide nanofibers. The individual polysaccharide nanofibers were entangled to form extended network structures in the macroscopic strand, which is never produced through conventional renaturing of polysaccharide. The wrapping of a synthetic functional polymer by the polysaccharide also proceeded on the fluidic liquid interface, leading to the creation of polysaccharide strand having unique functionalities such as conductivity or fluorescence arising from the entrapped polymer.
Self-assembly Synthesis of High-density Platinum Nanoparticles on Chemically Reduced Graphene Sheets
Authors: Li Wenbo , Zhai Dongyuan , Qiu Hao , Pang Huan , Pan Lijia , Shi Yi
Published: December 2010

Self-assembly was used to synthesize high-density Pt nanoparticles on chemically reduced graphene sheets (CRGSs). By employing 1-pyrenemethylamine (Py-CH2NH2) as the interlinker to form a self-assembled layer on the surface of graphene nanosheets via π–π stacking, high-density Pt nanoparticles on CRGSs were obtained. The uniform and high-density Pt nanoparticle/CRGS composite may have potential in the fields of catalysis, surface-enhanced Raman spectra, and fuel cells.
Photocatalytic Overall Water Splitting over ALi2Ti6O14 (A: 2Na and Sr) with Tunneling Structure
Authors: Iwase Akihide , Teoh Wey Yang , Amal Rose
Published: December 2010

RuO2-cocatalyst-loaded ALi2Ti6O14 (A: 2Na and Sr) with a unique tunneling structure shows photocatalytic activity for water splitting into H2 and O2 in stoichiometric amounts under UV irradiation. The addition of LiOH in the reactant solution, to replenish Li+ defects within the tunneling structure, improved the photocatalytic activities of ALi2Ti6O14 (A: 2Na and Sr) by approximately 10 and four times, respectively.
New Molecular Metals Based on a Tetrathiapentalene Donor with Peripheral Methoxy Groups
Authors: Ito Tetsuya , Nakamura Ken-ichi , Shirahata Takashi , Kawamoto Tadashi , Mori Takehiko , Misaki Yohji
Published: December 2010

A new tetrathiapentalene (TTP) donor 2-(4,5-dimethoxy-1,3-dithiol-2-ylidene)-5-(1,3-dithiol-2-ylidene)-1,3,4,6-tetrathiapentalene (DMO-TTP) has been synthesized, and the PF6 and AsF6 salts have also been prepared by electrochemical crystallization. X-ray structure analyses have revealed that intermolecular and intramolecular CH···O hydrogen bondings are constructed in the neutral crystal and the cation radical salts, respectively. The PF6 and AsF6 salts have a so-called β-type arrangement of the donors and show metallic behavior down to around 10 K.
Cage enrichment with paper tissue, but not plastic tunnels, increases variability in mouse model of asthma
Authors: Pasalic I , Bosnjak B , Tkalcevic V Ivetic , Jaran D Seveljevic , Javorscak Z , Markovic D , Hrvacic B
Published: December 2010

Environmental enrichment, besides having a great impact on animal welfare, can also be a potential variable in experimental research. Thus, we investigated whether enrichment of cages with paper tissues or plastic tunnels affects scientific outcome in the well-described mouse model of allergic asthma. BALB/cJ mice were introduced to paper tissues as nesting material, transparent plastic tunnels serving as shelters or kept in non-enriched cages. Afterwards, mice were sensitized to chicken egg ovalbumin (OVA) precipitated in aluminium sulphate and then intranasally challenged with OVA to induce allergic lung inflammation. Mice housed in cages enriched with paper tissues, but not with plastic tunnels, had increased total cell number, eosinophil number and IL-13 concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in comparison with the non-enriched control group. These results indicate that the effect of environmental enrichment on mice asthma models depends on the type of enrichment used. Therefore, it is important to consider the potential effects of any environmental enrichment on animal welfare and more importantly, on research results in order to standardize and obtain more accurate data from rodent studies.
Cognitive processes in university learning: A developmental framework using structural equation modelling
Authors: Phan Huy P.
Published: December 2010

Background. Both achievement goals and study processing strategies theories have been shown to contribute to the prediction of students’ academic performance. Existing research studies (Fenollar, Román, & Cuestas, 2007; Liem, Lau, & Nie, 2008; Simons, Dewitte, & Lens, 2004) amalgamating these two theoretical orientations in different causal models have reported their associations with other adaptive strategies and motivational constructs – for example, effort expenditure. Despite this recognition, there have been to date very few studies that explored the relations between achievement goals, study processing strategies, effort, and academic performance over time.

Aim of study. The primary focus of our study is to explore the relations between the aforementioned theoretical constructs over a 2‐year period. Specifically, we tested an empirical model that conceptualized the relations between performance‐approach and mastery goals, deep processing strategies, effort, and academic performance across six time points of data collection.

Methodology. Two hundred and eighty‐one (161 females, 120 males) university students took part in this study. The participants were administered various Likert‐scale inventories and the overall course mark and final examination were used as indexes of academic performance.

Results. Structural equation modelling indicated a relatively good fit to the a posteriori model and the hypothesized paths were, in part, supported. The major findings included the predictive effects of performance‐approach goals at Time 1 on deep processing strategies at Time 2 and mastery goals at Time 3; the predictive effect of mastery goals at Time 3 on effort at Time 4; the predictive effects of deep processing at Time 2 on mastery goals at Time 3 and Time 4. Furthermore, the placement of deep processing and effort in this structural model also accentuated the performance‐approach goals – mastery goals – effort – academic performance relation, and the performance‐approach goals – deep processing – mastery goals – effort – academic performance relation.

Discussion. Our study has important theoretical and practical implications concerning the conceptualization of the performance‐approach and mastery goals relationship, and the use of goal structure and adaptive strategies (e.g., deep processing) to enhance academic learning.
Plausible measurement analogies to some psychometric models of test performance
Authors: Kyngdon Andrew
Published: December 2010

Psychometricians hypothesize that cognitive abilities such as reading, writing and spelling are measurable. However, they prefer to model item response probabilities than to study the internal structure of cognitive attributes. The theory of conjoint measurement, via its unique capacity to detect the quantitative structure of non‐extensive attributes, can be used for the latter purpose. It is shown that conjoint systems analogous to the numerical composition rules advanced by the Rasch, many facet Rasch and two‐parameter logistic models can be formulated using well‐established axioms, representation theorems and proofs. Examples using empirical and synthetic data are presented. It was concluded that the lack of descriptive, behavioural theory remains the biggest obstacle to the scientific measurement of cognitive abilities.
Work‐place bullying: A group processes framework
Authors: Ramsay Sheryl , Troth Ashlea , Branch Sara
Published: December 2010

Work‐place bullying is primarily conceptualized in the literature from an individual or interpersonal perspective with a focus on the victim. The impact of the broader organizational context on bullying has also been considered to a lesser extent. Only a small amount of research exists, however, regarding the group‐level processes that impact on the incidence and maintenance of bullying behaviour. We adopt a group level perspective to theoretically discuss and explain the processes involved in the occurrence and maintenance of work‐place bullying behaviours. Using Social Identity Theory (Tajfel & Turner, 1986) and Social Rules Theory (Argyle, Henderson, & Furnham, 1985), two conceptual frameworks are presented that consider work‐place bullying at the intra‐group and inter‐group levels. Several propositions are put forward regarding the likelihood of bullying in work groups. Suggested directions for empirical research are addressed and practical implications are also discussed.
Investigating the unique predictability and boundary conditions of applicant physical attractiveness and non‐verbal behaviours on interviewer evaluations in job interviews
Authors: Tsai Wei‐Chi , Huang Tun‐Chun , Yu Hui‐Hui
Published: December 2010

Through the lens of the dramaturgical perspective, the present study investigated (1) the unique predictability of applicant non‐verbal cues (physical attractiveness and non‐verbal behaviours) on interviewer evaluation, and (2) whether situational variables (i.e., customer‐contact requirement and sex‐type consistency) moderate the relationships between applicant non‐verbal cues and interviewer evaluations. Data were collected from 177 interview sessions held in 39 firms in Taiwan. Results showed that applicant physical attractiveness explained unique variance in interviewer evaluations beyond that explained by applicant verbal content. Moreover, the effect of physical attractiveness became weaker when jobs possessed lower customer‐contact requirements, or when the applicant's gender was inconsistent with the interviewer's sex‐type belief relative to the job. No main or moderating effects, however, were found for non‐verbal behaviours on interviewer evaluations.
Gender differences in online and offline self‐disclosure in pre‐adolescence and adolescence
Authors: Valkenburg Patti M. , Sumter Sindy R. , Peter Jochen
Published: December 2010

Although there is developmental research on the prevalence of offline self‐disclosure in pre‐adolescence and adolescence, it is still unknown (a) how boys’ and girls’online self‐disclosure develops in this period and (b) how online and offline self‐disclosure interact with each other. We formulated three hypotheses to explain the possible interaction between online and offline self‐disclosure: the displacement, the rich‐get‐richer, and the rehearsal hypothesis. We surveyed 690 pre‐adolescents and adolescents (10–17 years) at three time points with half‐year intervals in between. We found significant gender differences in the developmental trajectories of self‐disclosure. For girls, both online and offline self‐disclosure increased sharply during pre‐ (10–11 years) and early adolescence (12–13 years), and then stabilized in middle and late adolescence. For boys, the same trajectory was found although the increase in self‐disclosure started 2 years later. We found most support for the rehearsal hypothesis: Both boys and girls seemed to use online self‐disclosure to rehearse offline self‐disclosure skills. This particularly held for boys in early adolescence who typically have difficulty disclosing themselves offline.
Testing causal models of the relationship between childhood gender atypical behaviour and parent–child relationship
Authors: Alanko Katarina , Santtila Pekka , Salo Benny , Jern Patrik , Johansson Ada , Sandnabba N. Kenneth
Published: December 2010

An association between childhood gender atypical behaviour (GAB) and a negative parent–child relationship has been demonstrated in several studies, yet the causal relationship of this association is not fully understood. In the present study, different models of causation between childhood GAB and parent–child relationships were tested. Direction of causation modelling was applied to twin data from a population‐based sample (n= 2,565) of Finnish 33‐ to 43‐year‐old twins. Participants completed retrospective self‐report questionnaires. Five different models of causation were then fitted to the data: GAB → parent–child relationship, parent–child relationship → GAB, reciprocal causation, a bivariate genetic model, and a model assuming no correlation. It was found that a model in which GAB and quality of mother–child, and father–child relationship reciprocally affect each other best fitted the data. The findings are discussed in light of how we should understand, including causality, the association between GAB and parent–child relationship.
Chilean children's essentialist reasoning about poverty
Authors: del Río María Francisca , Strasser Katherine
Published: December 2010

Two studies are reported that examine the hypothesis that children construct representations of poverty based on a theory of causal essentialism. One hundred and twenty Chilean kindergartners, half from low socio‐economic status (SES) schools and the other half from high‐SES schools, participated in the study. The results showed children's tendency towards an essentialist reasoning about poverty. All children in the study privileged internal features over external ones when deciding who is poor, and also used wealth category as a preferred clue to make inferences about people's attributes. However, only high‐SES children's answers were consistent with the belief that poverty is inherited and resistant to growth. Implications of these findings for theory and practice, as well as remaining questions, are addressed.
The role of working memory in the development of emotion comprehension
Authors: Morra Sergio , Parrella Ilaria , Camba Roberta
Published: December 2010

This study investigated the relationship between emotion comprehension, grammar comprehension, and working memory capacity in children between 5 and 11 years (n= 130), testing the hypothesis that working memory has a role in the development of emotion comprehension. We replicated the correlation between emotion comprehension and grammar comprehension, and found that working memory capacity correlates with both of these variables (also with age statistically controlled). The significant effect of age on emotion comprehension was eliminated when working memory capacity was co‐varied. In a regression analysis of emotion comprehension scores, when working memory capacity was entered as a predictor, no additional variance was significantly accounted for by grammar comprehension, gender, or age. A structural relations model, in which the paths from working memory capacity to emotion comprehension and from working memory capacity to grammar comprehension account fully for the correlation between grammar and emotion comprehension, fit the data well. However, working memory capacity was not equally related to all components of the Test of Emotion Comprehension (TEC) (Pons & Harris, 2000), the relationship being significant only for some of them. In particular, working memory capacity has a decisive role in the transition from understanding external to mental aspects of emotions. It is concluded that the development of working memory has a considerable impact on the development of emotion comprehension.
The impact of novel labels on visual processing during infancy
Authors: Mather Emily , Schafer Graham , Houston‐Price Carmel
Published: December 2010

The impact of novel labels on visual processing was investigated across two experiments with infants aged between 9 and 21 months. Infants viewed pairs of images across a series of preferential looking trials. On each trial, one image was novel, and the other image had previously been viewed by the infant. Some infants viewed images in silence; other infants viewed images accompanied by novel labels. The pattern of fixations both across and within trials revealed that infants in the labelling condition took longer to develop a novelty preference than infants in the silent condition. Our findings contrast with prior research by Robinson and Sloutsky (e.g., Robinson & Sloutsky, 2007a; Sloutsky & Robinson, 2008) who found that novel labels did not disrupt visual processing for infants aged over a year. Provided that overall task demands are sufficiently high, it appears that labels can disrupt visual processing for infants during the developmental period of establishing a lexicon. The results suggest that when infants are processing labels and objects, attentional resources are shared across modalities.
Excitation functions and yields for cyclotron production of radiorheniumvianatW(p,ߙxn)181-186gRe nuclear reactions and tests on the production of186gRe using enriched186W
Authors: Bonardi Mauro , Groppi Flavia , Persico Elisa , Manenti Simone , Abbas Kamel , Holzwarth Uwe , Simonelli Federica , Alfassi Z. B.
Published: December 2010

Excitation functions and thin-target yields for the181-186gRe radionuclides have been measured by the stacked-foil activation technique on tungsten foils of natural isotopic composition for different proton energies up to 22.0 MeV. A further check on the cross sections was done by irradiation of thick-targets and comparing the irradiated thick-target yields with those calculated by analytical integration from the thin-target yields. The production of186gRe was also studied by the irradiation of thick-target of enriched186W with a 13.6±0.2 MeV proton beam. The results for186W(p,ߙn)186gRe were compared also to those calculated by the EMPIRE II code (version 2.19), due to186gRe extensive applications in nuclear medicine for metabolic radiotherapy of tumours. It was found that the maximum percentage of186gRe by irradiation of natural tungsten is about 20% only, which confirms the conclusion that high radionuclidic purity and specific activity of186gRe necessitate the use of highly enriched186W target.
Complexation of thorium with phosphate
Authors: Ekberg Christian , Knutsson A. , Albinsson Yngve , Brown P. L.
Published: December 2010

Using liquid–liquid extraction and the AKUFVE-technique developed by the Nuclear Chemistry Department at Chalmers University of Technology, Sweden, the complex formation equilibria of hydrogen phosphate (HPO4
2−) with thorium have been studied at different temperatures (15, 25 and 35 °C), varying pH (7, 8 and 8.7) and in 1 M (Na,H)ClO4. Evaluation of the acquired solvent extraction data indicated the formation of the ThHPO4
2+, Th(HPO4)2(aq) and Th(HPO4)3
2− complexes. For Th(HPO4)2(aq) and Th(HPO4)3
2−, the logarithm of the stability constants obtained at 25 °C were 17.0±3.5 and 23.7±0.2, respectively. Only an estimate of the stability of ThHPO4
2+ could be obtained. Enthalpies and entropies of the complex formation reactions have been determined: Th(HPO4)2(aq) (ΔH=698±27 kJ mol−1, ΔS=2669±91 J mol−1 K−1) and Th(HPO4)3
2− (ΔH=499±4 kJ mol−1, ΔS=2137±12 J mol−1 K−1).
Japan's FTA Strategy toward Highly Developed Countries: Comparing Australia's and Switzerland's Experiences, 2000–09
Authors: Yoshimatsu Hidetaka , Ziltener Patrick
Published: December 2010

This article analyzes Japan's motivations in opening negotiations on free trade agreements with Australia and Switzerland, highlighting intersections between domestic and international factors. While Australia is a security ally of Japan and a main source of natural resources, Switzerland is a traditional ally in World Trade Organization negotiations and considered a gateway to the European market.
Insurgency and the Market for Violence in Southern Thailand
Authors: Askew Marc
Published: December 2010

Although violence in Thailand's southern border provinces declined from its peak in 2007, low-level violence continues to challenge the state. This essay discusses the limitations of paradigms and policy under the current Democrat Party-led government in the context of the enigmatic insurgency and associated opportunistic violence fuelling the instability.
Tomografia por emissão de fóton único em epilepsia temporal: estudos intercríticos e críticos com análise visual e semi quantitativa
Authors: Yacubian Elza Márcia T. , Yamaga Lilian Y.I. , Valério Rosa Maria F. , Fiore Lia A. , Jorge Carmen Lisa , Buchpiguel Carlos A.
Published: December 2010

Vinte e oito estudos intercríticos e 9 críticos/pós críticos de tomografia por emissão de fóton único (SPECT) foram realizados em 27 pacientes com epilepsia do lobo temporal e esclerose mesial temporal. Estudos intercríticos localizaram corretamente a área epileptogênica em 19 (67%) dos pacientes pela análise visual e 16 (61,5%) pela semi quantitativa, com 10,7 e 15,3%, de falsa lateralização respectivamente. Todos os 9 estudos críticos/ pós críticos detectaram o hemisfério epileptogênico e permitiram localização correta da área epileptogênica em 5 de 9 pacientes cujos exames intercríticos haviam sido inconclusivos. Três estudos realizados durante crises secundariamente generalizadas e simétricas mostraram hiperfluxo restrito ao lobo temporal.
Highlighting intracranial pressure monitoring in patients with severe acute brain trauma
Authors: Falcão Antonio L. E , Dantas Filho Venâncio P. , Sardinha Luiz A. C. , Quagliato Elizabeth M. A. B. , Dragosavac Desanka , Araújo Sebastião , Terzi Renato G. G.
Published: December 2010

Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring was carried out in 100 patients with severe acute brain trauma, primarily by means of a subarachnoid catheter. Statistical associations were evaluated between maximum ICP values and: 1) Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores; 2) findings on computed tomography (CT) scans of the head; and 3) mortality. A significant association was found between low GCS scores (3 to 5) and high ICP levels, as well as between focal lesions on CT scans and elevated ICP. Mortality was significantly higher in patients with ICP > 40 mm Hg than in those with ICP < 20 mm Hg.
The correlation of ct findings and in-hospital mortality after cerebral infarction
Authors: André Charles , Pinheiro Rubens S.A.
Published: December 2010

OBJECTIVE:To evaluate whether findings on computed tomography (CT) are useful to predict early mortality after acute cerebral infarction. METHODS: An admission CT was performed in 98 patients with disease-onset within 7 days; CT findings were analyzed using a checking list; their influence on hospital mortality was studied by logistic regression analysis. RESULTS: There were 29 hospital deaths. Uncal herniation and midline shift>4mm were strongly correlated with fatal outcome. Also associated with increased mortality: infarction of a whole hemisphere or in the distribution of internal carotid artery; massive (>90% expected area) infarction in the territory of the anterior or posterior cerebral arteries; massive or submassive (>50% expected area) middle cerebral artery infarction; large lesion volume (death in 9/13 patients with lesions >50cm³); any degree of mass effect. In 68 patients with single middle cerebral artery lesions, extension of the lesion to adjacent vascular territories was also associated with a worse outcome. The number of lesions and the presence of contrast enhancement, hemorrhagic changes or cerebral atrophy did not influence outcome. CONCLUSIONS: CT findings indicating significant mass effect and large infarcts are associated with mortality after ischemic stroke. The best combination of clinical and CT variables to estimate death risk in individual patients remains to be determined.
Possíveis etapas na patogênese da cefaléia tensional e indicações de tratamento
Authors: Jordy Ceme Ferreira
Published: December 2010

Análise de resultados obtidos no estudo de uma série de 100 pacientes com diagnóstico de cefaléia tensional permitem sugerir 5 etapas de um processo fisiopatogênico implicado. Com base nesta sugestão, a indicação para o tratamento e respectiva eficácia, dependerão da etapa patogênica sobre a qual se pretenda fazer incidir a ação terapêutica.
Acompanhamento ambulatorial de pacientes com mielomeningocele em um hospital pediátrico
Authors: Salomão J. Francisco , Leibinger Renê D. , Carvalho João G.S. , Pinheiro Jose Alvaro B. , Lucchesi Gianne L. , Bomfim Vera
Published: December 2010

A mielomeningocele constitui a mais freqüente malformação congênita do sistema nervoso e, a despeito de sua complexidade e acometimento de múltiplos órgãos, é compatível a sobrevida prolongada. Por esses motivos, o acompanhamento de pacientes com essa malformação assume vital importância no que diz respeito à qualidade de sua sobrevida. Com o objetivo de avaliar a qualidade do acompanhamento de portadores de spina bifida cística tratados em um hospital pediátrico, 54 pacientes foram examinados e seus familiares entrevistados. A inexistência de um centro multidisciplinar de tratamento de portadores de defeito de fechamento do tubo neural na cidade do Rio de Janeiro obrigou os pacientes a se deslocarem para locais geograficamente distantes entre si em busca de tratamento complementar em várias especialidades correlatas, com reflexos negativos na qualidade de sobrevida. Desta maneira, apenas uma quarta parte dos pacientes era capaz de se locomover e a chamada deambulação comunitária era praticamente nenhuma. Apenas 2/3 se submetiam regularmente a fisioterapia e apenas a metade era regularmente acompanhada por ortopedistas. Quase 50% dos pacientes não foram orientados a procurar assistência urológica e 75% apresentavam incontinência urinária. A incidência de infecções urinárias de repetição foi 72,2%. As complicações e intercorrências neurocirúrgicas propriamente ditas tiveram incidências comparáveis às observadas na literatura. Concluímos que a qualidade de sobrevida dos pacientes estudados é significativamente afetada por fatores sócio-econômicos e pela ausência de centros multidisciplinares de tratamento.
Doença de Kennedy: Relato de dois casos
Authors: Seefeld M. , Cunha F. Marcos , Ferraz Leila Elizabeth , Scola Rosana Herminia , Werneck Lineu Cesar
Published: December 2010

Relatamos, pela primeira vez em nosso meio, dois pacientes com atrofia muscular bulbo espinhal de início tardio (doença de Kennedy), caracterizada por fraqueza, atrofia muscular, tremores e manifestações endocrinológicas, com sinais eletromiográficos de desnervação. Esta entidade diferencia-se das demais doenças do neurônio motor pela sua peculiar herança ligada ao sexo, anormalidades endocrinas (ginecomastia, atrofia testicular e oligoespermia), tendo prognóstico relativamente favorável. Discutimos a caracterização clínica dos doentes apresentados, o aspecto fisiopatológico e a evolução.
Pontine tegmentum hematoma: a case report with the "one-and-a-half "syndrome without pyramidal tract deficit
Authors: Azevedo Jr Dionísio
Published: December 2010

The author reports the case of a 54-year-old male patient with a pontine hematoma and with the one-and-a-half syndrome, cerebellar ataxia and no signs of pyramidal tract involvement. The absence of involvement of the pyramidal tract in the case reported herein is likely due to variation in the vascular anatomy of the pons. The pathophysiologic mechanisms of the one-and-a-half syndrome and of the clinical findings recorded are discussed.
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Authors: Pereira Ronaldo , Ramalho Márcio , Pereira Aldo , Melo Paulo
Published: December 2010

Apresentamos caso de aneurisma gigante do segmento distal (P3) da artéria cerebral posterior. O aneurisma foi tratado microcirurgicamente pela via combinada proposta por Sano com clipagem do ramo terminal da artéria cerebral posterior próximo ao aneurisma. A paciente teve evolução pós operatória favorável, com lesão parcial e transitória do III nervo craniano. Revisão da literatura e discussão a respeito da anatomia e da abordagem cirúrgica são feitas. A raridade desta patologia justifica o relato deste caso.
Atividade epileptiforms occipital com ou sem bloqueio pela abertura dos olhos: estudo comparativo clínico-eletrencefalográfico
Authors: Fonseca Lineu Corrêa , Tedrus Glória M.A.S.
Published: December 2010

Atividade epileptiforme occipital bloqueada pela abertura dos olhos (AEOB) foi descrita por Gastaut como elemento constitutivo do quadro da epilepsia idiopática parcial da infância com paroxismos occipitais. Estudamos comparativamente 20 pacientes com AEOB e 120 casos com atividade epileptiforme occipital não bloqueada pela abertura dos olhos (AEO). Houve tendência ao aparecimento mais precoce de AEO (predomínio até os 7 anos de idade) do que AEOB e ao início mais frequente das crises antes dos 4 anos de idade no grupo AEO do que em AEOB. Não houve diferença significativa entre os grupos AEOB e AEO quanto ao relato de epilepsia (70,0% e 61,6%, respectivamente) e evidências de lesões do sistema nervoso central. Convulsões febris, isoladamente, foram apenas relatadas no grupo AEO (11,6%). Atraso no desenvolvimento neuropsicomotor foi relatado apenas no grupo AEO (22,5% dos casos). Complexos ponta-onda foram registrados com maior frequência no grupo AEOB (80,0%) do que em AEO (17.5%). Nossos dados sugerem diferenças no contexto clínico e eletrencefalográfico entre os grupos com AEO e AEOB.
Discinesias induzidas por levodopa em 176 pacientes com doença de Parkinson
Authors: Rocha Maria Sheila G. , Andrade Luiz Augusto F. , Ferraz Henrique B. , Borges Vanderci
Published: December 2010

A ocorrência de discinesias dificulta consideravelmente o manuseio terapêutico dos pacientes parkinsonianos tratados com levodopa. Estudamos as características clínicas das discinesias em 176 pacientes com diagnóstico de doença de Parkinson e tratados com levodopa. As discinesias ocorreram, em média, após 6,2 anos de duração da doença e após 4,2 anos de tratamento com levodopa. A maioria dos pacientes (90%) achava-se nos estágios II e III de Hoehn & Yahr por ocasião do início das discinesias. As discinesias mais frequentes foram as de "pico de dose" e "contínua". Movimento do tipo distônico ocorreu em 40% dos casos e predominou nas discinesias de "fim de dose" e "bifásica". Distonia matinal correspondeu a 35% dos casos de distonia. Movimentos coreiformes se manifestaram de forma generalizada em 43,2% dos casos. Movimentos distônicos predominaram nos membros inferiores. A discinesia, quando unilateral, ocorreu mais frequüentemente no hemicorpo mais comprometido pela doença de Parkinson. A discinesia orofacial, quando isolada, foi mais frequente nos pacientes mais idosos.
HTLV-I Associated uveitis, myelopathy, rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Pinheiro Sônia Regina A. A. , Lana-Peixoto Marco Aurélio , Proietti Anna B. Carneiro , Oréfice Fernando , Lima-Martins Maria V. , Proietti Fernando A.
Published: December 2010

A 62 year-old white female presented with a 10-year-history of slowly progressive spastic paraparesis, pain and dysesthesia in the lower limbs and sphincter disturbance. A few years after the onset of the neurologic symptoms she developped migratory arthritis with swelling of the knees and pain on palpation of knees and fingers, dry eyes, mouth and skin. Two months before admission she presented bilateral nongranulomatous anterior uveitis. Examination revealed spastic paraparesis with bilateral Babinski sign, a decreased sensation level below L3, decreased vibration sense in the lower extremities, and a postural tremor of the upper limbs. Laboratory work-up disclosed HTLV-I positive tests in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and a mild pleocytosis in the CSF with a normal protein content. Nerve conduction velocity studies were normal. The present case shows the association of uveitis, arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome in a patient with tropical spastic paraparesis / human T-cell lymphotropic virus type I (HTLV-I) associated myelopathy (TSP/HAM), and illustrates the wide spectrum of clinical manifestations which may accompany this infection with this virus.
Síndrome de Brown-Vialleto-Van Laere: relato de dois casos
Authors: Oliveira José Teotonio De , Moreira Paulo Roberto R. , Cardoso Francisco , Perpétuo Francisco Otaviano Lima
Published: December 2010

A síndrome de Brown-Vialetto-van Laere é entidade degenerativa hereditária ou esporádica, rara, caracterizada por surdez neuro-sensorial seguida ou acompanhada por uma variedade de alterações de nervos cranianos, podendo ainda ocorrer acometimento de corno anterior e vias ópticas. Relatamos dois casos e discutimos o diagnóstico diferencial e a relação da síndrome com as atrofias espinhais e surdez hereditária.
Recurrent meningitis in a case of congenital anterior sacral meningocele and agenesis of sacral and coccygeal vertebrae
Authors: Funayama Carolina A. R. , Turcato Marlene de F. , Moura-Ribeiro Renato , Rocha Gutemberg M. , Pina Neto João M. , Moura-Ribeiro Maria Valeriana L.
Published: December 2010

A rare case of recurrent meningitis due to congenital anterior sacral meningocele and agenesis of the sacral and coccygeal vertebrae is described. An autosomal dominant inheritance is demonstrated for lower cord malformation, and environmental factors (chromic acid or fumes) are discussed.
Forma granulomatosa da criptococose cerebral: relato de caso
Authors: Luc Fobe Jean , Buone Mauro Livio De , Costa Ricardo Borges Da
Published: December 2010

A criptococose do sistema nervoso central na sua forma granulomatosa ou criptococoma é rara, sendo mais freqüente a forma meningítica ou meningoencefalítica. Apresentamos o case de um paciente de 56 anos, não portador da síndrome de imunodeficiência adquirida, com manifestação clínica inicial de síndrome de hipertensão intracraniana em decorrência de criptococoma occípito-parietal que foi removido cirurgicamente, seguido do tratamento medicamentoso com anfotericina-B e 5-fIuorocitosina. A fisiopatologia, o diagnóstico por imagem e o tratamento são revistos.
Hematoma tegmento-mesencefálico espontâneo: aspectos neurocomportamentais do terço rostral do tronco encefálico humano
Authors: Oliveira-Souza Ricardo de , Bezerra Márcio Luciano de Souza , Figueiredo Wagner Martignoni de , Andreiuolo Pedro Ângelo
Published: December 2010

O tegmento do mesencéfalo é área complexa, dada a quantidade de fibras que o atravessam, provenientes de circuitos locais, de sistemas ativadores ascendentes e de feixes descendentes dos hemisférios cerebrais. No presente artigo, relatamos o caso de um senhor de 67 anos, que sofreu hemorragia mesencefálica de localização tegmental, vindo a falecer 1 mês depois. Inicialmente, foi julgado em coma, por apresentar ptose bilateral, ausência de fala e de movimentos espontâneos. Por volta da segunda semana, descobriu-se que podia cumprir comandos verbais, sentar, sustentar-se de pé e andar. O caso demonstra o quanto o diagnóstico do coma em bases clínicas pode ser enganoso em pacientes como esse, no qual a aparente irresponsividade de olhos fechados se deve à combinação inesperada de abulia e oftalmoplegia.
Transtorno obsessivo-compulsivo e os gânglios da base
Authors: Miguel Filho Eurípedes Constantino
Published: December 2010

O transtorno obsessivo compulsivo (TOC), caracterizado por obsessões e compulsões, foi descrito com frequência aumentada em várias doenças que acometem primariamente of gânglios da base sugerindo que estas estruturas também estivessem acometidas no TOC. Os gânglios da base, que no passado se acreditava estarem implicados apenas no comportamento motor, são, na verdade, importantes em inúmeras outras funções psíquicas como o processamento de vivências cognitivas. Estudos recentes utilizando imagem de ressonância magnética mostraram tendência a diminuição do núcleo caudado em pacientes com TOC. De forma coerente, estudos com neuroimagem funcional, sugerem a implicação de um circuito cerebral envolvendo o córtex órbito-frontal, o giro cíngulo, o núcleo caudado e o tálamo na patofisiologia do TOC. Entre as diversas hipóteses formuladas a partir desses achados, especula-se que um déficit no funcionamento do núcleo caudado levaria a uma filtragem inadequada de preocupações que então estimulariam o córtex órbito-frontal a desencadear ações adaptativas: as compulsões.
Electroneuromyography and neuromuscular findings in 16 primary hypothyroidism patients
Authors: Cruz Márcia W. , Tendrich Mauro , Vaisman Mário , Novis Sérgio A. P.
Published: December 2010

There has been few reports on electroneuromyography (ENMG) changes in hypothyroidism. The objectives of the present study were to investigate the frequency of ENMG abnormalities in hypothyroidism and correlate them with neurological signs and symptoms and muscle enzyme levels; and to compare latency, amplitude and nerve conduction velocity from selected nerves with controls. Sixteen patients suffering from primary hypothyroidism were submitted to ENMG before treatment. ENMG abnormalities were found in 87.5% of the patients; 46.6% had myopathy and 43.7% had carpal tunnel syndrome. There was no case of polyneuropathy. A clear-cut clinical, laboratorial and ENMG correlation was observed in patients with myopathy and carpal tunnel syndrome. The patients showed a significant tendency of nerve conduction slowness as compared with controls. The findings are in accordance with the well-known nerve and muscle damage in hypothyroidism.