bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Much Better Are the Most-Prestigious Journals? The Statistics of Academic Publication
Authors: Starbuck William H.
Published: April 2005

Articles in high-prestige journals receive more citations and more applause than articles in less-prestigious journals, but how much more do these articles contribute to knowledge?

This article uses a statistical theory of review processes to draw inferences about differences value between articles in more-prestigious versus less-prestigious journals. This analysis indicates that there is much overlap in articles in different prestige strata. Indeed, theory implies that about half of the articles published are not among the best ones submitted to those journals, and some of the manuscripts that belong in the highest-value 20% have the misfortune to elicit rejections from as many as five journals.

Some social science departments and business schools strongly emphasize publication in prestigious journals. Although one can draw inferences about an author’s average manuscript from the percentage in top-tier journals, the confidence limits for such inferences are wide. A focus on prestigious journals may benefit the most prestigious departments or schools but add randomness to the decisions of departments or schools that are not at the very top. Such a focus may also impede the development of knowledge when mediocre research receives the endorsement of high visibility.
New Venture Evolution and Managerial Capabilities
Authors: Boeker Warren , Wiltbank Robert
Published: April 2005

This study examines factors influencing changes in the top management of start-up firms. Whereas a significant amount of research has examined top management transitions in established firms, we know much less about the factors influencing the evolution of top management capabilities in a new firm. Our research examines these issues in a sample of new ventures founded from 1983 through 1995, examining each firm for seven years after its founding to evaluate the conditions that influence a firm’s changes in top management. Results indicate that top management team changes occur in cases of very low or very high firm growth, but are mitigated by a functionally diverse top management team. Power and control of inside and outside constituencies also affect changes in top management, with venture capital ownership and board representation increasing change in top management, and managerial ownership decreasing changes.
The Influence of Ethnicity on Warfarin Dosage Requirement
Authors: Dang Mai-Trang N , Hambleton Julie , Kayser Steven R
Published: April 2005

BACKGROUND:

The optimal dose of warfarin varies among individuals, and the prediction of a maintenance dose is difficult. Ethnicity has been reported to influence warfarin dosing.

OBJECTIVE:

To quantitate the influence of ethnicity on warfarin dose requirement.

METHODS:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a university anticoagulation clinic to evaluate the influence of ethnicity on warfarin dose. Inclusion criteria included age ⩾18 years, target international normalized ratio (INR) 2–3, and warfarin management within the clinic for ⩾3 months with a minimum of 5 clinic visits. We collected clinical and demographic data including age, gender, weight, ethnicity, disease states, concomitant medications, indication, weekly warfarin dosage, and INR. To assess potential confounders, multivariate, repeated-measures regression analysis was used to identify and adjust for variables that may influence the maintenance dose of warfarin.

RESULTS:

Of the 345 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 27% were Asian American, 6% Hispanic, 54% white, and 14% African American. The adjusted mean (95% CI) weekly warfarin doses for patients with an INR goal of 2 to 3 were Asian Americans 24 mg (21 to 27), Hispanics 31 mg (25 to 37), whites 36 mg (34 to 39), and African Americans 43 mg (39 to 47) (p < 0.001). Additional factors found to influence warfarin dose requirement included age, weight, concomitant use of amiodarone, and diagnosis of venous thromboembolism.

CONCLUSIONS:

Warfarin dose requirements vary across ethnic groups even when adjusted for confounding factors, suggesting that genetic variation contributes to interpatient variability.
Erythro/threo ratio of β-O-4-5 structures as an important structural characteristic of lignin. Part 4: Variation in the erythro/threo ratio in softwood and hardwood lignins and its relation to syringyl/guaiacyl ratio
Authors: Akiyama Takuya , Goto Hitoshi , Nawawi Deded S. , Syafii Wasrin , Matsumoto Yuji , Meshitsuka Gyosuke
Published: April 2005

The proportion of erythro- and threo-forms of β-O-4-structures in lignin was elucidated by ozonation analysis of 21 wood species, and the relationship to the syringyl and guaiacyl composition was investigated. For all hardwood species, the erythro-form of β-O-4-structures predominated, although the extent varied widely, depending on wood species. In contrast, the proportion and amount of erythro- and threo-forms were very similar in all softwood species. The proportion of the erythro-form was greater in species with a higher methoxyl content in the lignin (correlation coefficient, R2=0.83). The S/V ratio (molar ratio of syringaldehyde and syringic acid to that of vanillin and vanillic acid) obtained by nitrobenzene oxidation was also strongly correlated with the proportion of the erythro-form (R2=0.99). Accordingly, the syringyl/guaiacyl ratio is closely related to the erythro/threo ratio. This stereochemical characteristic of β-O-4-structures is discussed in relation to the process of lignin formation.
Hygroscopicity of resorcinol-formaldehyde resin and aqueous vinyl polymer-isocyanate resin in high humidity
Authors: Miyazaki Junko , Nakano Takato
Published: April 2005

The hygroscopicity and hygro-mechanical properties of the adhesives, resorcinol-formaldehyde (RF) resin and aqueous vinyl polymer-isocyanate (API) resin have been examined. Adsorption isotherms for cured RF and API resins with various degrees of crosslinking showed that the hygroscopicity of both resins decreased as the curing reactions proceeded, although the mechanisms for these decreases differed. In RF resins cured with a large amount of hardener, a highly crosslinked structure is formed, so swelling is limited by the network. Thus, the hygroscopicity of cured RF resins decreases due to the restricted swelling, while the number of hydroxyl groups, another source of hygroscopicity, are not changed by the curing. On the other hand, swelling in API resins cured with a large amount of hardener is not completely inhibited because of long segments between the crosslinks. The hygroscopicity of cured API resins is lowered as the curing extent increased, since this reaction decreases the number of hydroxyl groups.
Microbial colonizers of freshly sawn yellow-poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera L.) lumber in two seasons. Part 3: Yeasts
Authors: Mikluscak Mark R. , Dawson-Andoh Benjamin E.
Published: April 2005

This is the final report on a study that examined the occurrence of three types of microorganisms (fungi, bacteria, and yeasts) on dead-stacked green yellow-poplar lumber in spring and summer of 2000. This paper reports on the abundance, identities, and diversity of yeasts isolated during the first 60 days of storage of the lumber immediately after sawing in each season. Yeasts made up 16% of the total microbial isolates (logncfu g−1) in the entire study. The predominant yeast isolate wasTrichosporon cutaneum, which accounted for 42% of all the yeasts identified. A great variety of yeast species belonging to the genusCandidawere present and includedC. steatolytica,C. sphaerica,C. humicola,C. incommunis,C. montana, andC. kefyr.
Cholinergic Basal Forebrain Neurons Burst with Theta during Waking and Paradoxical Sleep
Authors: Lee Maan Gee , Hassani Oum K. , Alonso Angel , Jones Barbara E.
Published: April 2005

It is known that acetylcholine can stimulate activation and promote plasticity in the cerebral cortex, yet it is not known how the cholinergic basal forebrain neurons, which release acetylcholine in the cortex, discharge in relation to natural cortical activity and sleep-wake states. By recording basal forebrain units in association with electroencephalographic activity across the sleep-wake cycle and labeling individual neurons with Neurobiotin for immunohistochemical identification, we show for the first time that cholinergic neurons discharge in bursts at maximal rates during active waking and paradoxical sleep, when gamma and theta electroencephalographic activity are maximal. They virtually cease firing during slow-wave sleep. Notably, their bursting discharge is synchronized with theta oscillations. Through their maximal firing and rhythmic theta discharge during active waking and paradoxical sleep, the cholinergic neurons can thus modulate the cortex to promote activation along with plasticity during these two states.
A Novel RNA-Binding Protein in Neuronal RNA Granules: Regulatory Machinery for Local Translation
Authors: Shiina Nobuyuki , Shinkura Kazumi , Tokunaga Makio
Published: April 2005

Local translation in neuronal dendrites is an important basis for long-term synaptic plasticity, and RNA granules in the dendrites are involved in the local translation. Here, we identify RNG105 (RNA granule protein 105), a novel RNA-binding protein, as a component of the RNA granules in dendrites of hippocampal neurons. The RNG105-localizing RNA granules contain mRNAs, the translational products of which play key roles in synaptic plasticity. RNG105 has an ability to repress translation bothin vitroandin vivo, consistent with the finding that the RNA granule is translationally arrested in the basal conditions. Dissociation of RNG105 from the RNA granules is induced by BDNF, a growth factor responsible for synaptic plasticity. The RNG105 dissociation is coincident with the induction of local translation near the granules. These findings suggest that RNG105 is a translational repressor in the RNA granules and provide insight into the link between RNG105 dynamics and local translational regulation.
Microglia Overexpressing the Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor Receptor Are Neuroprotective in a Microglial-Hippocampal Organotypic Coculture System
Authors: Mitrasinovic Olivera M. , Grattan Alicia , Robinson Christopher C. , Lapustea Nicolae B. , Poon Clara , Ryan Heather , Phong Connie , Murphy Greer M.
Published: April 2005

Microglia with increased expression of the macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor (M-CSFR; c-fms) are found surrounding plaques in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and in mouse models for AD and after ischemic or traumatic brain injury. Increased expression of M-CSFR causes microglia to adopt an activated state that results in proliferation, release of cytokines, and enhanced phagocytosis. To determine whether M-CSFR-induced microglial activation affects neuronal survival, we assembled a coculture system consisting of BV-2 microglia transfected to overexpress the M-CSFR and hippocampal organotypic slices treated with NMDA. Twenty-four hours after assembly of the coculture, microglia overexpressing M-CSFR proliferated at a higher rate than nontransfected control cells and exhibited enhanced migration toward NMDA-injured hippocampal cultures. Surprisingly, coculture with c-fms-transfected microglia resulted in a dramatic reduction in NMDA-induced neurotoxicity. Similar results were observed when cocultures were treated with the teratogen cyclophosphamide. Biolistic overexpression of M-CSFR on microglia endogenous to the organotypic culture also rescued neurons from excitotoxicity. Furthermore, c-fms-transfected microglia increased neuronal expression of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF), the M-CSFR, and neurotrophin receptors in the NMDA-treated slices, as determined with laser capture microdissection. In the coculture system, direct contact between the exogenous microglia and the slice was necessary for neuroprotection. Finally, blocking expression of the M-CSF ligand by exogenous c-fms-transfected microglia with a hammerhead ribozyme compromised their neuroprotective properties. These results demonstrate a protective role for microglia overexpressing M-CSFR in our coculture system and suggest under certain circumstances, activated microglia can help rather than harm neurons subjected to excitotoxic and teratogen-induced injury.
Function and Coding in the Blowfly H1 Neuron during Naturalistic Optic Flow
Authors: van Hateren J. H. , Kern R. , Schwerdtfeger G. , Egelhaaf M.
Published: April 2005

Naturalistic stimuli, reconstructed from measured eye movements of flying blowflies, were replayed on a panoramic stimulus device. The directional movement-sensitive H1 neuron was recorded from blowflies watching these stimuli. The response of the H1 neuron is dominated by the response to fast saccadic turns into one direction. The response between saccades is mostly inhibited by the front-to-back optic flow caused by the forward translation during flight. To unravel the functional significance of the H1 neuron, we replayed, in addition to the original behaviorally generated stimulus, two targeted stimulus modifications: (1) a stimulus in which flow resulting from translation was removed (this stimulus produced strong intersaccadic responses); and (2) a stimulus in which the saccades were removed by assuming that the head follows the smooth flight trajectory (this stimulus produced alternating zero or nearly saturating spike rates). The responses to the two modified stimuli are strongly different from the response to the original stimulus, showing the importance of translation and saccades for the H1 response to natural optic flow. The response to the original stimulus thus suggests a double function for the H1 neuron, assisting two major classes of movement-sensitive output neurons targeted by H1. First, its strong response to saccades may function as a saccadic suppressor (via one of its target neurons) for cells involved in figure-ground discrimination. Second, its intersaccadic response may increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of wide-field neurons involved in detecting translational optic flow between saccades, in particular when flying speeds are low or when object distances are large.
Changes in Brain Activation during the Acquisition of a Multifrequency Bimanual Coordination Task: From the Cognitive Stage to Advanced Levels of Automaticity
Authors: Puttemans Veerle , Wenderoth Nicole , Swinnen Stephan P.
Published: April 2005

Little is known about activation changes reflecting overlearning, i.e., extensive motor training beyond asymptotic performance. Here we used functional magnetic resonance imaging to trace the neural shifts from an initial to a skilled (learning) and finally overlearned stage (automatization). Scanning occurred before training (PRE) and after 1 (MID) and 2 weeks (POST) of intensive practice on a new bimanual coordination task (>10,500 cycles). Kinematics revealed major improvements between PRE and MID sessions, whereas MID to POST session performance leveled off, indicative of learning and automatization, respectively. Imaging findings showed that activation decreased in bilateral opercular areas, bilateral ventrolateral prefrontal cortex, the right ventral premotor and supramarginal gyrus, and the anterior cingulate sulcus during the learning stage and in the supplementary motor area during the automatization stage. These changes are hypothesized to reflect decreases in attention-demanding sensory processing, as well as suppression of preferred coordination tendencies as a prelude to acquiring new coordination modes. Conversely, learning-related increases were observed in the primary motor cortex (M1), posterior cingulate zone (PCZ), putamen, and right anterior cerebellum. Importantly, both M1 and PCZ activation decreased again to initial level (PRE) during automated performance (POST). Only the putamen and anterior cerebellum remained more activated across both learning and automatization stages, supporting their crucial role in long-term motor memory formation for coordination tasks.
Noradrenergic Stimulation Enhances Human Action Monitoring
Authors: Riba Jordi , Rodríguez-Fornells Antoni , Morte Adelaida , Münte Thomas F. , Barbanoj Manel J.
Published: April 2005

Noradrenergic neurotransmission has been associated with the modulation of higher cognitive functions mediated by the prefrontal cortex. In the present study, the impact of noradrenergic stimulation on the human action-monitoring system, as indexed by event-related brain potentials, was examined. After the administration of a placebo or the selective α2-adrenoceptor antagonist yohimbine, which stimulates firing in the locus ceruleus and noradrenaline release, electroencephalograpic recordings were obtained from healthy volunteers performing a letter flanker task. Yohimbine led to an increase in the amplitude of the error-related negativity in conjunction with a significant reduction of action errors. Reaction times were unchanged, and the drug did not modify the N2 in congruent versus incongruent trials, a measure of preresponse conflict, or posterror adjustments as measured by posterror slowing of reaction time. The present findings suggest that the locus ceruleus-noradrenaline system exerts a rather specific effect on human action monitoring.
Foxg1Confines Cajal-Retzius Neuronogenesis and Hippocampal Morphogenesis to the Dorsomedial Pallium
Authors: Muzio Luca , Mallamaci Antonello
Published: April 2005

It has been suggested that cerebral cortex arealization relies on positional values imparted to early cortical neuroblasts by transcription factor genes expressed within the pallial field in graded ways.Foxg1, encoding for one of these factors, previously was reported to be necessary for basal ganglia morphogenesis, proper tuning of cortical neuronal differentiation rates, and the switching of cortical neuroblasts from early generation of primordial plexiform layer to late production of cortical plate. Being expressed along a rostral/lateralhigh- to-caudal/mediallowgradient,Foxg1, moreover, could contribute to shaping the cortical areal profile as a repressor of caudomedial fates. We tested this prediction by a variety of approaches and found that it was correct. We found that overproduction of Cajal-Retzius neurons characterizingFoxg1-/-mutants does not arise specifically from blockage of laminar histogenetic progression of neocortical neuroblasts, as reported previously, but rather reflects lateral-to-medial repatterning of their cortical primordium. Even if lacking a neocortical plate,Foxg1-/-embryos give rise to structures, which, for molecular properties and birthdating profile, are highly reminiscent of hippocampal plate and dentate blade. Remarkably, in the absence ofFoxg1, additional inactivation of the medial fates promoterEmx2, although not suppressing cortical specification, conversely rescues overproduction ofReelinonneurons.
Nuclear Ca2+ and the cAMP Response Element-Binding Protein Family Mediate a Late Phase of Activity-Dependent Neuroprotection
Authors: Papadia Sofia , Stevenson Patrick , Hardingham Neil R. , Bading Hilmar , Hardingham Giles E.
Published: April 2005

The mechanism by which physiological synaptic NMDA receptor activity promotes neuronal survival is not well understood. Here, we show that that an episode of synaptic activity can promote neuroprotection for a long time after that activity has ceased. This long-lasting or “late phase” of neuroprotection is dependent on nuclear calcium signaling and cAMP response element (CRE)-mediated gene expression. In contrast, neuroprotection evoked acutely by ongoing synaptic activity relies solely on the activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway. This “acute phase” does not require nuclear calcium signaling and is independent of activation of the CRE-binding protein (CREB) family of transcription factors. Thus, activity-dependent neuroprotection comprises two mechanistically distinct phases that differ in their spatial requirements for calcium and in their reliance on the CREB family.
Experimental economics in anthropology: A critical assessment
Authors: Chibnik Michael
Published: April 2005

In recent years, well‐funded cross‐cultural economic experiments have received considerable publicity in science journals. The anthropologists conducting these experiments have made ambitious claims about the value of their research, saying that their findings “illuminate the nature of human nature” and the “appropriateness of the assumption of self‐interest that underpins much of social science.” The publication of a new book, Foundations of Human Sociality, provides an opportunity to assess these claims. The findings reported in the book are consistent with long‐accepted ideas in sociocultural anthropology. The book's contributors are often insufficiently critical of theoretical assumptions in economics, psychology, and biology and pay insufficient attention to relevant theory in economic anthropology. In particular, the evolutionary psychology paradigm accepted by many anthropologists conducting economic experiments does not aid in understanding their findings.
MICROBIAL ACTIVITY OF DARK RED LATOSOL SAMPLES STORED AT DIFFERENT TEMPERATURES
Authors: Vieira Francisco Cleber Sousa , Nahas Ely
Published: April 2005

The enzymatic activity of soil samples stored at temperatures of 5 to -12oC and at room temperature for 0-32 weeks was determined. While alkaline phosphatase and dehydrogenase activity was decreased compared to control in samples stored at low temperatures, acid phosphatase activity showed no significant change.
Growth of Pediococcus acidilactici on sugar cane blackstrap molasses
Authors: Sant’Anna Ernani S. , Torres Regina Coeli O.
Published: April 2005

Pediococcus acidilactici (IL01) has grown in MRS (Man, Rogosa and Sharpe) broth modified by substitution of glucose by 2.0% (MRS-2), 3.0% (MRS-3), 4.0% (MRS-4) and 5.0% (MRS-5) sugar cane blackstrap molasses. The highest acid production was obtained in MRS-5 broth maintained at a constant pH of 5.0. The highest biomass production was obtained when P. acidilactici was grown in MRS-5 broth at initial pH 6.5, while productivity was higher in MRS-2 broth (28.16%). When the MRS-2 broth was utilized at initial pH 6.5 for a 20-hour fermentation period, the highest growth rate (dx/dt) was found in a period of 8 to 16 hours (0.290 g cells/L.h), while the specific growth rate (µ) was 0.175 (h-1) for that period, differently from the 0.441 (h-1) obtained for the period comprising the 4th to the 12th hour. The growth in MRS broth was 5.08% (2.95 g/l) higher than in MRS-2 broth (2.80 g/l). The data obtained have shown that P. acidilactici has had a significant growth in molasses as the main carbon source, and that it is possible to substitute MRS glucose by this carbon source with the purpose of obtaining a more economical growth medium for the potential large scale productions.
INHIBITION OF MAYARO VIRUS REPLICATION BY PROSTAGLANDIN A1 IN Aedes albopictus CELLS
Authors: Barbosa Joel Antonio , Rebello Moacyr Alcoforado
Published: April 2005

Prostaglandin A1 (PGA1) inhibits Mayaro virus replication in Aedes albopictus cells at nontoxic doses to uninfected cells. At 10 µg/ml, PGA1 decreases virus production by 90%. The presence of PGA1 during virus adsorption, with no treatment after infection, reduces virus yield by 41%. Antiviral activity is observed even when treatment starts at one or two hours post-infection. However, in cells pre-treated with PGA1 during 24 hours, virus replication is not impaired. Thus, events ocurring during initial stages of infection and after virus adsorption and penetration must be the target of PGA1 action. SDS-PAGE analysis of 35S-methionine labelled proteins shows that PGA1 inhibits the synthesis of viral proteins and induces the synthesis of polypeptides with molecular weight of 70 kDa, 57 kDa and 23 kDa. In cells pre-treated with actinomycin D the induction of those proteins is suppressed. In addition, actinomycin D treatment prevents PGA1antiviral activity, indicating that PGA1-induced stress proteins are probably involved in this mechanism.
Characterization of selected strains of mucorales using fatty acid profiles
Authors: Silva Manuela da , Manfio Gilson Paulo , Canhos Vanderlei Perez
Published: April 2005

The fatty acid profiles of several fungi of the order Mucorales (Zygomycetes), including Backusella lamprospora (Lendner) Benny and R.K. Benj., Benjaminiella youngii P.M. Kirk, Circinella simplex van Tieghem, Cunninghamella blakesleeana Lendner, Mortierella ramanniana (Möller) Linnem., Mucor circinelloides f. janssenii (Lendner) Schipper, Mycotypha microspora Fenner, Rhizomucor miehei (Cooney and R. Emerson) Schipper and Rhizomucor pusillus (Lindt) Schipper, and of Volutella sp. Fr., from the class Ascomycetes, were qualitatively analysed by gas-liquid chromatography in order to determine the taxonomic value of these chemotaxonomic markers. The fatty acids present in all strains were palmitic (16:0), oleic (18:1), linoleic (18:2) and g-linolenic (18:3) acid, with the exception that the latter was not found in Volutella sp. Chemotaxonomic markers for some species and genera were obtained, including a non-identified fatty acid, FAME8 (minimum and maximum retention times of 27.92 and 28.28 minutes) for Rhizomucor miehei CCT 2236 and Rhizomucor pusillus CCT 4133, and FAME3 (minimum and maximum of 16.53 and 16.61 minutes) for Benjaminiella youngii CCT 4121. The chemotaxonomic marker of the order Mucorales was the fatty acid 18:3w6, confirming previous data from literature. The results of the present study suggest that qualitative fatty acid analysis can be an important chemotaxonomic tool for the classification of fungi assigned to the order Mucorales (Zygomycetes).
Structure-biological activity relationship of synthetic trihydroxilated chalcones
Authors: Devia Cristina M. , Pappano Nora B. , Debattista Nora B.
Published: April 2005

The bacteriostatic activity of 2’,4’,2-trihydroxychalcone; 2’,4’,3-trihydroxychalcone and 2’,4’,4-trihydroxychalcone, prepared by condensation of 2,4-dihydroxyacetophenone and benzaldehyde substituted, against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 was assayed by agar plate method. The three compounds presented important inhibition halos. In order to elucidate structure-activity relationships, the minimal inhibitory concentrations against S. aureus were determined by the broth dilution method and the results obtained were compared to that of 2',4'-dihydroxychalcone. The sequence observed was: MIC 2’,4’,3-(OH)3 > MIC 2’,4’-(OH)2 > MIC 2’,4’,4-(OH)3 > > MIC 2’,4’,2-(OH)3. These results showed that the introduction of an electron donating group (-OH) in the aromatic B-ring causes an increase in bioactivity, and that the intensity of action depends on the position of the OH substitute.
Agar diffusion tests with cefuroxime disks for predicting ceftriaxone susceptibility among isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae
Authors: Dias Cícero A.G. , Kader Ivonyr A. , d’Azevedo Pedro , Superti Silvana , Alves Dirce , Olm Gislaine
Published: April 2005

The performance of agar diffusion tests using disks of cefuroxime (30µg) for predicting ceftriaxone susceptibility in 33 isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae was studied. All 7 resistant isolates to ceftriaxone (MIC ³1.0 µg/ml) exhibited zones of inhibition <28mm. The procedure can be easily adapted to clinical laboratories.
Microbial contamination of stored hydrocarbon fuels and its control
Authors: Gaylarde Christine C. , Bento Fátima M. , Kelley Joan
Published: April 2005

The major microbial problem in the petroleum refining industry is contamination of stored products, which can lead to loss of product quality, formation of sludge and deterioration of pipework and storage tanks, both in the refinery and at the end-user. Three major classes of fuel are discussed in this article - gasoline, aviation kerosene and diesel, corresponding to increasingly heavy petroleum fractions. The fuel that presents the most serious microbiological problems is diesel. The many microorganisms that have been isolated from hydrocarbon fuel systems are listed. The conditions required for microbial growth and the methods used to monitor and to control this activity are discussed. The effects of various fuel additives, including biocides, are considered.
Incidence of Campylobacter in pigs with and without diarrhea
Authors: Modolo José Rafael , Margato Luiz Florêncio Fernandes , Gottschalk Arnold Frederico , Lopes Carlos Alberto de Magalhães
Published: April 2005

Two hundred pigs (1- 21 weeks old), from five piggeries in São Paulo State, Brazil, were divided in two groups of 100 animals each, G1 with diarrhea and G2 without diarrhea. Campylobacter was recovered from 43% of G1 and 34% of G2 specimens, and was more frequently recovered from 0-4 week old piglets. C. coli was the most common species (44.2% in G1 and 32.4% in G2), followed by C. jejuni/coli (16.3% in G1 and 23.5% in G2). Campylobacter counts were significantly higher in G1 (£ 108 UFC/g) than in G2 (£ 104 UFC/g) (p < 0.01), which suggests that the bacterium may play a role at least in the aggravation of the diarrheic process.
Enzootic bovine Leukosis: development of an indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (I-Elisa) in seroepidemiological studies
Authors: González Ester Teresa , Bonzo Estela Beatriz , Echeverría María Gabriela , Licursi María , Etcheverrigaray María Elisa
Published: April 2005

Bovine Leukemia Virus (BLV) is the etiologic agent of Enzootic Bovine Leukosis, a retrovirus exogenous to the bovine species. Once infected, there is no detectable viraemia but instead there is a strong and persistent immunological response to BLV structural proteins, essentially the gp51 envelope glycoprotein and the mayor core protein p24. We describe the test procedure of an indirect ELISA (I-ELISA) using polyclonal reagents for the detection of antibodies to BLV. For comparison, the sera were simultaneously tested by agar gel immunodiffussion (AGID) test, which is currently used as diagnostic standard for BLV infection. The antigen applied does not require a high degree of purification and the data from the analysis of the negative sera showed that the establishment of a cut-off level corresponding to 3 times the standard deviation (SD) above the mean for the negative control set of sera provided acceptable specificity, reducing the risk of false positives results. A comparison of the results obtained by AGID test and I-ELISA showed that considering a total of 465 serum samples, all of the 234 samples (50%) that were positive by AGID were positive to the I-ELISA. Of 225 serum samples which yielded negative results in the AGID test, 69 (15%) were found to be positive by the I-ELISA and 156 (33%) were negative by both techniques. Few sera (2%) that were non-specific by AGID were defined as negative or positive by I-ELISA.
Role of the concentration process in the recovery of Candida albicans from blood
Authors: Freitas Ana Lúcia Peixoto de , Barth Afonso Luis
Published: April 2005

The lysis-centrifugation system (Isolator TM) is recognized as the standard method for recovery of Candida spp. from blood. In this study, the effect of the concentration process of this system was compared with conventional methods of blood culture using liquid and biphasic media. The tests were performed in vitro using Candida albicans in counts of 100, 10, 1, and 0.5 cells/ml of blood. Cultures onto chocolate agar were performed with the sediment obtained after centrifugation of IsolatorTM tube and with liquid and biphasic media after their incubation for 24 h at 35oC. Gram stain prepared from the conventional methods were also evaluated in the first 24 h. It was possible to detect Candida albicans in blood, regardless both the number of cells or methodology. As blastoconidia were observed in Gram stains at the same time that growth was noted, time for diagnosis was also not different for the compared methods. Therefore, we suggest that the process of concentration is not the single important factor responsible for the recovery rates of Candida albicans from blood by the IsolatorTM system.
Toxic metabolites from culture filtrate of Fusarium oxysporum and its effects on cucumber cells and plantlets
Authors: Melo Itamar Soares de , Piccinin Everaldo
Published: April 2005

Resistance of cucumber plantlets to culture filtrate of Fusarium oxysporum is correlated with resistance of single cells from callus. Single cells and plantlets of two cultivars of cucumber were incubated with culture filtrates. Rapid cell death occurred, as assessed by the stain fluorescein diacetate. More cell death ocurred in the cells of the cultivar Aodai than in to cells of the cultivar Caipira, which presented high level of resistance. Maximum toxic activity of culture filtrates was attained after 21-25 days of growth of the fungus.
Low cost production and purification of polyclonal antibodies to staphylococcal enterotoxin A
Authors: Oliveira Tereza Cristina R.M. de , Hirooka Elisa Yoko
Published: April 2005

An immunization scheme for production of antiserum to staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA) is proposed. The reference method of Robbins and Bergdoll was modified to reduce the number of doses and the amount of toxin used per animal. The best immunization scheme used injections in days 0, 8, 24, 59, 62 and 67. The amount of toxin at each injection was 5, 6, 20, 50, 100 and 200mg, respectively. The total amount of toxin was 381mg, which corresponded to a reduction of 107mg in the amount of toxin for each animal when compared to the reference method. The average antiserum titer using the Optimum Sensitivity Plate - OSP was 1:60 and using ELISA the titer was 1:100.000. The lack of cross-reactivity with other staphylococcal enterotoxins indicated high specificity of the antibody to SEA. The proposed immunization scheme was adequate to produce specific SEA antisera, with high titers and the aditional advantage of reducing the amount of purified SEA required for immunization.
Detection and characterization of bacteriocin-producing Lactococcus lactis strains
Authors: Moreno Izildinha , Lerayer Alda L.S. , Leitão Mauro F. de Freitas
Published: April 2005

One hundred sixty seven strains of Lactococcus lactis were screened for bacteriocin production by well diffusion assay of GM17 agar. Fourteen (8.4%) produced antimicrobial activity other than organic acids, bacteriophages or hydrogen peroxide. The frequency of bacteriocin production ranged from 2% in L. lactis subsp. cremoris up to 12% in L. lactis subsp. lactis. Antimicrobial activities were not observed in any strain of L. lactis subsp. lactis var. diacetylactis. Among thirteen bacteriocin-producing strains and two nisin-producing strains (L. lactis subsp. lactis ATCC 11454 and L. lactis subsp. lactis CNRZ 150), eight (53%) were characterized as lactose-positive (Lac+) and proteinase-negative (Prt-). The bacteriocin-producing cultures were also characterized on the basis of plasmid content. All strains had 2 to 7 plasmids with molecular weights varying from 0.5 to 28.1 Mdal. Four strains (ITAL 435, ITAL 436, ITAL 437 and ITAL 438) showed identical profiles and the other were quite distinct.
Therapeutic properties of whey used as fermented drink
Authors: Kar T. , Misra A.K.
Published: April 2005

Bioconversion of whey for preparation of beverage was standardized by utilizing yoghurt cultures. The product, wheyghurt drink, made with 4% yoghurt cultures inoculated in deproteinized whey (4.8% lactose, 0.66% ash, 0.46% fat and 0.40% protein adjusted to pH 6.4) and incubated at 42oC for 8h had all the technological requisite and dietetic criteria required in the product. The factors affecting the antibacterial activity of wheyghurt drink against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella dysenteriae and Bacillus cereus were determined. There was a significant variation (P<0.05) in the antibacterial activity of wheyghurt drink with different levels of inoculum (1,2,4, and 8%) and concentration of sugar at 37, 42 and 45oC. Incubation at 42oC with 4% culture in whey exhibited highest inhibitory activity. The product stored up to 5 days under refrigeration was of acceptable organoleptic quality and requisite amount of microbial population (108 cfu/ml) to be potentially beneficial.
Algae and cyanobacteria on painted surfaces in Southern Brazil
Authors: Gaylarde Peter M. , Gaylarde Christine C.
Published: April 2005

Algae and cyanobacteria disfigure the external surfaces of buildings and may cause their physico-chemical deterioration. Even though the climate in Brazil is humid, there is no published literature on this problem. The objective of this work was to identify the major phototrophs present on Brazilian constructions in residential, urban and rural sites. The algal and cyanobacterial types present on discolored surfaces of painted buildings in nine different municipalities in Brazil, all lying between latitudes 19° South and 30° South, were examined. A total of 816 different organisms was detected in 58 sites. Approximately 63% were single-celled or colonial organisms. The cyanobacterial genus, Synechocystis, was the most biodiverse and frequently comprised the major biomass. It was present in 63.4% of sites. Second and third most frequently detected were Oscillatoria and the algal genus, Chlorella, respectively. The latter organism showed the most widespread occurrence (72.4%). Cyanobacteria were the most important colonizers, especially at urban sites, where over 62% of the organisms detected belonged to this class. Filamentous phototrophs were found in smaller numbers than non-filamentous at all locations.
Equine leukoencephalomalacia associated with ingestion of corn contaminated with fumonisin B1
Authors: Mallmann Carlos A. , Santurio Janio M. , Dilkin Paulo
Published: April 2005

This article describes clinical, etiologic and pathologic diagnosis of an outbreak of equine leukoencephalomalacia. Two samples of the corn consumed by the affected horses contained fumonisin B1 at levels of 46 and 53 µg/g and Fusarium moniliforme, a good in vitro mycotoxin producer.
Fermentation and recovery of L-glutamic acid from cassava starch hydrolysate by ion-exchange resin column
Authors: Nampoothiri K. Madhavan , Pandey Ashok
Published: April 2005

Investigations were carried out with the aim of producing L-glutamic acid from Brevibacterium sp. by utilizing a locally available starchy substrate, cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz). Initial studies were carried out in shake flasks, which showed that even though the yield was high with 85-90 DE (Dextrose Equivalent value), the maximum conversion yield (~34%) was obtained by using only partially digested starch hydrolysate, i.e. 45-50 DE. Fermentations were carried out in batch mode in a 5 L fermenter, using suitably diluted cassava starch hydrolysate, using a 85-90 DE value hydrolysate. Media supplemented with nutrients resulted in an accumulation of 21 g/L glutamic acid with a fairly high (66.3%) conversation yield of glucose to glutamic acid (based on glucose consumed and on 81.74% theoretical conversion rate). The bioreactor conditions most conducive for maximum production were pH 7.5, temperature 30°C and an agitation of 180 rpm. When fermentation was conducted in fed-batch mode by keeping the residual reducing sugar concentration at 5% w/v, 25.0 g/L of glutamate was obtained after 40 h fermentation (16% more the batch mode). Chromatographic separation by ion-exchange resin was used for the recovery and purification of glutamic acid. It was further crystallized and separated by making use of its low solubility at the isoelectric point (pH 3.2).
Critical control points for meat balls and kibbe preparations in a hospital kitchen
Authors: Pedroso Débora Midori Myaki , Iaria Sebastião Timo , Gamba Rosa Carvalho , Heidtmann Sandra , Rall Vera Lúcia Mores
Published: April 2005

Hazards and critical control points (CCP) associated with meat balls and kibbe preparations in a hospital kitchen were determined using flow diagrams and microbiological testing of samples collected along the production line. Microbiological testing included counts of mesophilic and psicrothrophic microorganisms, yeasts and molds, total and fecal coliforms, C. perfringens, coagulase positive staphylococci, bacteria of the B. cereus group and detection of Salmonella. Time/temperature binomial was measured in all steps of preparation. A decision tree was used to help in the determination of CCPs. The detected hazards were: contamination of raw meat and vegetables, multiplication of the microorganisms during meat manipulation, poor hygiene of utensils and equipment, and survival of microorganisms to the cooking process. Cooking and hot-holding were considered CCPs. The results stress the importance of the implementation of a training program for nutricionists and foodhandlers and the monitoring of CCPs and other measures to prevent foodborne diseases.
An experimental study of nanoflagellate bacterivory
Authors: Fernandes Ana Júlia , Mesquita Hilda de Souza Lima
Published: April 2005

Heterotrophic nanoflagellate Pseudobodo tremulans (4.8 to 7.0 µm) and heterotrophic bacteria, isolated from coastal waters in Ubatuba, SP, Brazil, were used in experiments to analyze quantitatively the relationships between bacteria and nanoflagellates. The meaning of these results for the role of heterotrophic nanoflagellates in the Ubatuba coastal ecosystem is discussed.
Razão de mortalidade proporcional de Swaroop e Uemura: necessidade de revisão periódica de sua definição
Authors: Paiva Elias Rodrigues de , Juliano Yára , Novo Neil Ferreira , Leser Walter
Published: April 2005

Utilizando dados referentes a 34 países, em quatro épocas, 1950,1960, 1970 e 1980, foi verificado que a percentagem de óbitos com 50 anos e mais, que constitui a Razão de Mortalidade Proporcional, indicador de nível de saúde de populações proposta por Swarrop e Uemura, não proporcionou o maior poder de discriminação entre países mais e menos desenvolvidos, em qualquer das épocas; nas duas últimas, foi a percentagem de óbitos com 75 anos e mais que correspondeu esse maior poder. Verificou-se ainda que os deslocamentos de óbitos para faixas etárias mais elevadas, durante um determinado período, foram também mais bem traduzidas pelas variações no mesmo período, dessa percentagem, sendo útil a complementação dessas informações pelas variações da percentagem de óbitos com 65 anos e mais. E sugerida a conveniência de reformulação das classes propostas por Swaroop e Uemura, definindo-se outras baseadas na RMP dada por 75 anos e mais, com os seguintes limites: 0 |—20, 20 |—40, 40 |—50, 50 |—55 e 55 ou mais, com previsão de desdobramento futuro da última.
Preferências alimentares de mosquitos Culicidae no Vale do Ribeira, São Paulo, Brasil
Authors: Forattini Oswaldo Paulo , Gomes Almério de Castro , Natal Délsio , Kakitani Iná , Marucci Daniel
Published: April 2005

São apresentados os resultados obtidos na identificação do sangue ingerido por culicídeos ingurgitados coletados em vários ambientes rurais de cinco localidades do Vale do Ribeira, Estado de São Paulo (Brasil). O maior rendimento, que representou a quase totalidade dos espécimens coletados, foi obtido mediante o emprego da aspiração e das redes manuais. Foi possível identificar a origem de 1.444 repastos sangüíneos. Os Aedes apresentaram predominância de positividade para mamíferos. Ae. scapularis mostrou preferência por hospedeiros de grande porte representados por bovinos e eqüinos. Ae. serratus alimentou-se também em aves. Com exceção da elevada antropofilia de Cx. quinquefasciatus, os demais representantes de Cx. (Culex) revelaram-se apreciavelmente ornitófilos. Em conjunto, Cx. (Melanoconion) mostrou o mais amplo espectro de hematofagia, que incluiu anfíbio, ave, mamíferos e réptil. Cx. ribeirensis e Cx. sacchettae apresentaram resultados que sugerem alguma preferência por mamíferos. A antropofilia distribuiu-se por várias espécies destacando-se Ae. scapularis, Cx. sacchettae e Cx. ribeirensis que a apresentaram nas coletas efetuadas no intradomicílio. A influência da densidade de hospedeiros no ambiente modificado fez-se sentir em relação à primeira dessas três espécies, para as quais as evidências obtidas sugerem que estejam evoluindo no sentido da domiciliação.
Pesquisa de Yersinia pestis em roedores e outros pequenos mamíferos nos focos pestosos do Nordeste do Brasil no período 1966 a 1982
Authors: Almeida Alzira Maria Paiva de , Brasil Darci Pascoal , Carvalho Francisco Gomes de , Almeida Célio Rodrigues de
Published: April 2005

Foi feita análise da metodologia empregada e dos resultados alcançados em pesquisa de Yersinia pestis, em material de 24.703 roedores e outros pequenos mamíferos oriundos dos focos pestosos do Nordeste do Brasil, no período de 1966 a 1982. Concluiu-se ser necessário haver maior rapidez na realização dos exames para que os dados obtidos sejam convenientemente aplicados nas atividades de vigilância e controle da peste.
Causa versus predição: história de banhos em rios como fator de risco e preditor da infecção pelo Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Barreto Mauricio L.
Published: April 2005

Através da análise das relações existentes entre as medidas de risco e as medidas de eficiência de testes de diagnóstico ou triagem, são discutidos os problemas e limitações concernentes ao uso de fatores de risco na predição da distribuição de efeitos (infecção, doença, cura) em uma população. Para ilustrar o tema, foi utilizada a associação, em crianças, entre a questão "você já tomou banhos em rios?", muito utilizada em anamneses clínicas ensinadas em diversas escolas médicas do Brasil, e a infecção pelo Schistosoma mansoni. A história de banhos em rios, enquanto um importante fator de risco, mostrou-se mau preditor da ocorrência da infecção esquistossomótica. A análise demonstrou que este achado é, em grande parte, devido a baixa freqüência de história negativa de banhos em rios. Porém, a possibilidade da utilização de fatores de risco isoladamente ou agrupados, com o objetivo de predição de efeitos, é possível e desejável. Apesar de pouco explorado nos seus aspectos práticos ou conceituais, esta área de conhecimento representa um importante ponto de convergência entre a epidemiologia das causas e a epidemiologia das intervenções.
Levantamento planorbídico do Estado de São Paulo (Brasil): 4ª Região Administrativa
Authors: Vaz Jorge Faria , Mantegazza Ezio , Teles Horacio Manuel Santana , Leite Santa Poppe Silva , Morais Lucia Vieira Camargo
Published: April 2005

A fim de conhecer a distribuição dos hospedeiros intermediários de S. mansoni no Estado de São Paulo (Brasil), a Superintendência de Controle de Endemias (SUCEN) procedeu a amplo inquérito malacológico em todos os municípios paulistas que teve a duração de 4 anos. As pesquisas realizadas na 4ª Região Administrativa que tem sede em Sorocaba e que constituem o objeto do presente relato, mostraram que Biomphalaria tenagophila (d'Orbigny, 1835) ocorre em 26 dos 59 municípios nela compreendidos. Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818) é encontrada em 9 municípios e Biomphalaria straminea (Dunker, 1848), em 2. Vários casos de esquistossomose em migrantes já foram observados na área estudada. B. tenagophila parece estar implicada na cadeia natural de transmissão de S. mansoni em Itu e em São Roque, municípios em que foram descobertos os dois únicos casos da doença, até agora considerados como autóctones em toda a região.