bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiac involvement in Beagle-based canine X-linked muscular dystrophy in Japan (CXMDJ): electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, and morphologic studies
Authors: Yugeta Naoko , Urasawa Nobuyuki , Fujii Yoko , Yoshimura Madoka , Yuasa Katsutoshi , Wada Michiko R , Nakura Masao , Shimatsu Yoshiki , Tomohiro Masayuki , Takahashi Akio , Machida Noboru , Wakao Yoshito , Nakamura Akinori , Takeda Shin'ichi
Published: December 2006

Background

Cardiac mortality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) has recently become important, because risk of respiratory failure has been reduced due to widespread use of the respirator. The cardiac involvement is characterized by distinctive electrocardiographic abnormalities or dilated cardiomyopathy, but the pathogenesis has remained obscure. In research on DMD, Golden retriever-based muscular dystrophy (GRMD) has attracted much attention as an animal model because it resembles DMD, but GRMD is very difficult to maintain because of their severe phenotypes. We therefore established a line of dogs with Beagle-based canine X-linked muscular dystrophy in Japan (CXMDJ) and examined the cardiac involvement.

Methods

The cardiac phenotypes of eight CXMDJand four normal male dogs 2 to 21 months of age were evaluated using electrocardiography, echocardiography, and histopathological examinations.

Results

Increases in the heart rate and decreases in PQ interval compared to a normal littermate were detected in two littermate CXMDJdogs at 15 months of age or older. Distinct deep Q-waves and increase in Q/R ratios in leads II, III, and aVF were detected by 6–7 months of age in all CXMDJdogs. In the echocardiogram, one of eight of CXMDJdogs showed a hyperechoic lesion in the left ventricular posterior wall at 5 months of age, but the rest had not by 6–7 months of age. The left ventricular function in the echocardiogram indicated no abnormality in all CXMDJdogs by 6–7 months of age. Histopathology revealed myocardial fibrosis, especially in the left ventricular posterobasal wall, in three of eight CXMDJdogs by 21 months of age.

Conclusion

Cardiac involvement in CXMDJdogs is milder and has slower progression than that described in GRMD dogs. The distinct deep Q-waves have been ascribed to myocardial fibrosis in the posterobasal region of the left ventricle, but our data showed that they precede the lesion on echocardiogram and histopathology. These findings imply that studies of CXMDJmay reveal not only another causative mechanism of the deep Q-waves but also more information on the pathogenesis in the dystrophin-deficient heart.
Pandemic influenza preparedness: an ethical framework to guide decision-making
Authors: Thompson Alison K , Faith Karen , Gibson Jennifer L , Upshur Ross EG
Published: December 2006

Background

Planning for the next pandemic influenza outbreak is underway in hospitals across the world. The global SARS experience has taught us that ethical frameworks to guide decision-making may help to reduce collateral damage and increase trust and solidarity within and between health care organisations. Good pandemic planning requires reflection on values because science alone cannot tell us how to prepare for a public health crisis.

Discussion

In this paper, we present an ethical framework for pandemic influenza planning. The ethical framework was developed with expertise from clinical, organisational and public health ethics and validated through a stakeholder engagement process. The ethical framework includes both substantive and procedural elements for ethical pandemic influenza planning. The incorporation of ethics into pandemic planning can be helped by senior hospital administrators sponsoring its use, by having stakeholders vet the framework, and by designing or identifying decision review processes. We discuss the merits and limits of an applied ethical framework for hospital decision-making, as well as the robustness of the framework.

The need for reflection on the ethical issues raised by the spectre of a pandemic influenza outbreak is great. Our efforts to address the normative aspects of pandemic planning in hospitals have generated interest from other hospitals and from the governmental sector. The framework will require re-evaluation and refinement and we hope that this paper will generate feedback on how to make it even more robust.
Adult Wilms' tumour: a case report with review of literature
Authors: Geethamani V , Kusuma V , Gowda KM Srinivasa , Saini Monika Lamba
Published: December 2006

Background

Wilms' tumor is the commonest primary malignant renal tumor in childhood. Rarely, it may present in the adult age group.

Case presentation

We report a 48-year-old male presenting with flank pain and haematuria. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a right renal mass measuring 11 × 10 cms, and a clinical diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma was made. Nephrectomy was performed, and a final diagnosis of adult Wilms' tumor was made based on the criteria proposed by Kilton et al.

Conclusion

The possibility of an adult Wilms' tumor should be considered when a patient presents with pain in the flank and a renal mass. Rarity of the tumor favors documentation in literature.
Yeast UBL-UBA proteins have partially redundant functions in cell cycle control
Authors: Díaz-Martínez Laura A , Kang Yang , Walters Kylie J , Clarke Duncan J
Published: December 2006

Background

Proteins containing ubiquitin-like (UBL) and ubiquitin associated (UBA) domains have been suggested to shuttle ubiquitinated substrates to the proteasome for degradation. There are three UBL-UBA containing proteins in budding yeast: Ddi1, Dsk2 and Rad23, which have been demonstrated to play regulatory roles in targeting ubiquitinated substrates to the proteasome for degradation. An involvement of these proteins in cell cycle related events has also been reported. We tested whether these three proteins act redundantly in the cell cycle.

Results

Here we show that the UBL-UBA proteins are partially redundant for cell cycle related roles. RAD23 is redundant with DDI1 and DSK2, but DDI1 and DSK2 are not redundant with each other and the triple deletion shows a synthetic effect, suggesting the existence of at least two roles for RAD23 in cell cycle control. The rad23Δddi1Δdsk2Δ triple deletion strain delays both in G2/M-phase and in mid-anaphase at high temperatures with duplicated spindle pole bodies. Cell cycle progression in the triple deletion strain can only be partially rescued by a rad23 allele lacking the c-terminal UBA domain, suggesting that RAD23 requires its c-terminal UBA domain for full function. In addition to their ability to bind ubiquitin and the proteasome, the UBL-UBA proteins also share the ability to homodimerize. Rad23 and Dsk2 dimerization requires their UBL and/or UBA domains whereas Ddi1 dimerization does not. Here we show that Ddi1 homodimerization is necessary for its cell cycle related functions.

Conclusion

The three yeast UBL-UBA proteins have partially redundant roles required for progression through mitosis.
Intracellular Delivery of Oligonucleotide Conjugates and Dendrimer Complexes
Authors: JULIANO R.L.
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  Enhancing the delivery of antisense and siRNA molecules to cells and tissues is a key issue for oligonucleotide therapeutics. Cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs) have the ability to convey linked “cargo” molecules into the cytosol; thus we have explored the use of CPPs as delivery agents for oligonucleotides. We have extensively evaluated CPP–oligonucleotide conjugates, and have recently begun to explore the use of CPP–dendrimer–oligonucleotide complexes. We have found that CPP‐antisense oligonucleotide conjugates can be taken up by cells and can effectively modify gene expression in cell culture and in tissues. Although not as potent in cell culture as cationic lipid delivery agents, CPP–oligonucleotide conjugates offer the advantage of being molecules rather than particles, and may have substantial advantages over particle‐based delivery in the in vivo setting.
Characterization of Antisense Oligonucleotides Comprising 2′‐Deoxy‐2′‐Fluoro‐β‐d‐Arabinonucleic Acid (FANA)
Authors: FERRARI NICOLAY , BERGERON DENIS , TEDESCHI ANNA‐LISA , MANGOS MARIA M. , PAQUET LUC , RENZI PAOLO M. , DAMHA MASAD J.
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  Antisense oligonucleotides (AON) are being developed for a wide array of therapeutic applications. Significant improvements in their serum stability, target affinity, and safety profile have been achieved with the development of chemically modified oligonucleotides. Here, we compared 2′‐deoxy‐2′‐fluoro‐β‐D‐arabinonucleic acid (FANA)‐containing AONs with phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotides (PS‐DNA), 2′‐O‐methyl‐RNA/DNA chimeras and short interfering RNAs (siRNA) with respect to their target knockdown efficacy, duration of action and resistance to nuclease degradation. Results show that two different configurations of FANA/DNA chimeras (altimers and gapmers) were found to have potent antisense activity. Specific target inhibition was observed with both FANA configurations with an estimated EC50 value comparable to that of an siRNA but 20‐to 100‐fold lower than the other commonly used AONs. Moreover, the FANA/DNA chimeras showed increased serum stability that was
correlated with sustained antisense activity for up to 4 days. Taken together, these results indicate that chimeric FANA/DNA AONs are promising new tools for therapeutic gene silencing when increased potency and duration of action are required.
Modification of the Pig CFTR Gene Mediated by Small Fragment Homologous Replacement
Authors: MAURISSE ROSALIE , CHEUNG JUDY , WIDDICOMBE JONATHAN , GRUENERT DIETER C.
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  The generation of a pig model of cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multistep process. Initial steps in this process involved the design and cloning of a small DNA fragment (SDF) or large oligodeoxynucleotide (LODN) that contains the F508del mutation and a silent restriction fragment length polymorphism causing mutation. This SDF/LODN was transfected into wild‐type (WT) pig fetal fibroblast with the intention of modifying the pig genomic DNA by small fragment homologous replacement (SFHR). The targeted deletion (F508del) was detected in a subpopulation of transfected cells by allele‐specific polymerase chain reaction (AS‐PCR)
Metabolic Syndrome Manifestations in Classic Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: CHARMANDARI EVANGELIA , CHROUSOS GEORGE P.
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  Classic congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21‐hydroxylase deficiency is a common autosomal recessive disorder characterized by impaired adrenocortical and adrenomedullary function, and adrenal hyperandrogenism. Compared to normal subjects, patients with classic CAH have increased incidence of obesity and visceral adiposity, hyperinsulinism and insulin resistance, hyperleptinemia, hypertension, and hyperandrogenism. It is likely that the impaired adrenomedullary function and intermittent treatment‐related hypercortisolism may account for the above abnormalities, and may predispose these subjects to the development of metabolic syndrome‐related endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic interventions targeting obesity and/or insulin resistance may offer an improved outcome in terms of cardiovascular morbidity.
Tissue Production of Cortisol by 11β‐Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 and Metabolic Disease
Authors: WALKER BRIAN R , ANDREW RUTH
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  Activation of intracellular glucocorticoid receptors is determined not only by the plasma concentrations of cortisol, under the influence of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis, but also by 11HSD enzymes within the target cell which interconvert cortisol with its inert metabolite cortisone. Data from cells in culture, isolated tissues, and transgenic mouse models have established that 11HSD type 1 regenerates glucocorticoids and amplifies glucocorticoid receptor activation. In humans, the rate of cortisol regeneration in peripheral tissues is of similar magnitude to adrenal secretion of cortisol at most times of day, and occurs principally in the splanchnic circulation. Approximately two‐thirds of the splanchnic activity appears to reside in visceral adipose tissue, sufficient to allow visceral adipose tissue to “deliver” cortisol to the liver via the portal vein. In obesity, 11HSD1 activity in subcutaneous adipose tissue is increased, putatively explaining the link between obesity and other features of the metabolic syndrome. The regulation of 11HSD1, and the basis for its upregulation in obesity, are now being explored. Against this background, inhibition of 11HSD1 has become a major therapeutic target in metabolic syndrome. Preclinical results with novel selective 11HSD1 inhibitors are encouraging, and clinical proof of principle has been achieved with the nonselective inhibitor carbenoxolone. Although the parallels between metabolic syndrome and Cushing's syndrome were originally drawn with reference to patients with elevated plasma cortisol concentrations, it now appears that manipulating tissue concentrations of cortisol will allow the subtle level of control required for long‐term therapy to reduce the risks of cardiovascular disease.
The Protective Role of Exercise on Stress System Dysregulation and Comorbidities
Authors: TSATSOULIS AGATHOCLES , FOUNTOULAKIS STELIOS
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  The human body, when under threat, elicits a set of neuroendocrine responses, including an increased secretion of glucocorticoids (GCs) and catecholamines from the adrenal gland and the activation of the sympathetic nervous system. These hormonal secretions allow a “fight or flight” response by mobilizing endogenous substrate and inducing a state of insulin resistance in the liver and skeletal muscles. Although the stress response was essential in ancient times to survive physical aggression, this threat has disappeared in our industrialized societies. However, in today's environment, the same stress responses can be elicited by emotional stimuli or professional and social stress. Such psychological stress may be protracted and unrelated to an increased metabolic demand. Thus, the energy mobilized is not used but is stored in visceral fat depots by the combined action of hypercortisolism and hyperinsulinemia. In addition, chronic activation of the stress system causes suppression of the gonadal, growth hormone (GH), and thyroid axes. These metabolic disturbances, in concert, lead to the clinical expression of a number of comorbidities including central obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and endothelial dysfunction, all components of the metabolic syndrome and cardiometabolic risk factors. Moreover, chronic stress has deleterious effects on the brain and, in particular, affects hippocampal structure and function leading to cognitive and mood disturbances. Importantly, this stress‐induced clinical phenotype is likely to be exaggerated in the presence of physical inactivity, resulting in a “stress‐induced/exercise deficient” phenotype. Assuming that the stress response is a neuroendocrine mechanism that occurs in anticipation of physical action, then physical activity should be the natural means to prevent the consequences of stress. Indeed, accumulating evidence documents the beneficial effects of regular exercise in preventing or ameliorating the metabolic and psychological comorbidities induced by chronic stress. These benefits are thought to derive from a central effect of exercise to reduce the sensitivity to stress and also peripheral actions influencing metabolic functions and, in particular, insulin sensitivity and the partitioning of fuels toward oxidation rather than storage. It is concluded that chronic psychosocial stress, in the presence of physical inactivity, is likely to contribute to the epidemic of cardiometabolic and emotional disease of our current society. The way to prevent and combat this burden is by regular exercise.
Regulation of Appetite and Insulin Signaling in Inflammatory States
Authors: TELI THALIA , XANTHAKI DESPINA , KARALIS KATIA P.
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  Inflammatory states are characterized by decreased food intake, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance. The contribution of cytokines in this phenotype is important and is exerted through activation of SOCS proteins and inhibition of insulin signaling, as well as through direct stimulation of the ob gene. Obesity, a condition that has reached epidemic rates, is characterized by hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance and increased food intake, and body weight. In the following article we summarize the current views of the mechanisms underlying insulin resistance in obesity and the other inflammatory states. We also discuss the regulation of appetite in inflammatory states, and we provide evidence on the cytokine‐independent induction of anorexia following immune activation in mice. Understanding of the exact mechanisms regulating these processes may provide important insights for the control of this group of diseases that compromise to a great extent the quality of life and are associated with high mortality.
Obesity‐Related Sleepiness and Fatigue
Authors: VGONTZAS ALEXANDROS N. , BIXLER EDWARD O. , CHROUSOS GEORGE P.
Published: December 2006

Abstract:  Obesity has epidemic proportions in Western societies and, because of its significant association with morbidity and mortality, is a major public health issue. Excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and fatigue (tiredness without increased sleep propensity)–‐which have been associated with obesity‐–have a significant impact on individual well‐being and public safety. In this article, we review data that challenge the belief that sleep apnea and sleep disruption per se are the primary determinants of obesity‐related daytime sleepiness and fatigue. Specifically, it appears that obesity per se is associated with objective and subjective daytime sleepiness compared to normal‐weight controls regardless of sleep apnea and sleep loss. Indeed, obese patients without sleep apnea are sleepier compared to nonobese controls whereas within the morbidly obese, those who have high sleep efficiency at night are sleepier than those who have low sleep efficiency. In addition, in recent studies based on large random samples of the general population, the primary determinants of subjective EDS were depression and metabolic disturbances, that is, obesity/diabetes, and not sleep apnea or objective sleep disruption. Furthermore, sleepiness and fatigue are very prevalent in conditions associated with insulin resistance, for instance, the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), independently of sleep apnea or obesity, or in conditions of insufficient physical activity. On the basis of these data, we propose that obesity‐related objective daytime sleepiness and fatigue are associated primarily with metabolic and psychological factors and less with sleep apnea and sleep disruption per se. Furthermore, we suggest that objective sleepiness is primarily related to metabolic factors, whereas fatigue appears to be related to psychological distress. Finally, based on data from studies in normal controls and patients with sleep disorders, we propose that the interaction of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis and proinflammatory cytokines determines the level of sleep/arousal within the 24‐h cycle, that is, “hypercortisolemia” plus hypercytokinemia is associated with low sleep efficiency and fatigue, whereas “eucortisolemia” or “hypocortisolemia” plus hypercytokinemia is associated with high sleep efficiency and objective sleepiness.
Ultrahigh Sensitive Color Dosimeters Composed of Photochromic Diarylethenes and Fluorescent Metal Complexes
Authors: Irie Setsuko , Irie Masahiro
Published: December 2006

Dithienylethene derivatives, which undergo thermally irreversible photochromic reactions, were applied to sensitive color dosimeters. Upon γ-irradiation, polystyrene films containing diarylethene derivatives, such as 1,2-bis(2-methyl-5-phenyl-3-thienyl)perfluorocyclopentene (1) or 1,2-bis(5-methyl-2-phenyl-4-thiazolyl)perfluorocyclopentene (2), and fluorescent metal complexes turned blue or red. Even if the absorbed dose was as small as 10 Gy, a clear color change was observed.
Preparation of Highly Ordered Mesoporous Thiophene–Silica with Spherical Macrostructure
Authors: Cho Eun-Bum , Kim Dukjoon
Published: December 2006

Highly ordered mesoporous thiophene–silica powder was prepared using nonionic PEO–PLGA–PEO triblock copolymer templates and a 2,5-bis(triethoxysilyl)thiophene organosilica precursor under acidic conditions. The mesoporous thiophene–silica materials prepared with the EO16(L29G7)EO16 template were observed to have a well-defined spherical-like external morphology with a diameter of 2–5 μm, and a 2D hexagonal (p6mm) array of mesopores with a lattice constant of 9.55 nm. The thiophene–silica also displayed a large surface area of up to 1410 m2 g−1.
A Facile Synthesis of N-[2-(Trifluoromethyl)allyl]amides and Their Transformation into Angularly Trifluoromethylated Bicyclic Cyclopentenones
Authors: Nadano Ryo , Ichikawa Junji
Published: December 2006

On treatment with sec-BuLi at −105 °C, 2-bromo-3,3,3-trifluoropropene undergoes rapid lithium–halogen exchange to generate thermally unstable 1-(trifluoromethyl)vinyllithium, which reacts with N-tosylimines to afford N-[2-(trifluoromethyl)allyl]amides in high yield. Propargylation of the amides, followed by the Pauson–Khand reaction, readily provides pyrrolidine ring-fused cyclopentenones with an angular trifluoromethyl group.
Drug-biomolecule interactions in the excited states
Authors: Lhiaubet-Vallet Virginie , Miranda Miguel Angel
Published: December 2006

Drug-biomolecule interactions in the excited state are relevant from a photobiological point of view as they can be correlated with a number of photosensitization disorders such as photocarcinogenicity, photoallergy, phototoxicity, etc. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory 2-arylpropionic acids and antibacterial fluoroquinolones have been selected as typical examples of photoactive drugs. Protein photosensitization has revealed photoadduct formation; the major amino acids involved are Tyr, Trp, and His. Generation of specific antibodies has allowed us to identify relevant structures of the drug epitopes. Then, drugs have been submitted to systematic steady-state and time-resolved studies on their photophysical properties, alone and in the presence of biomolecules: proteins, DNA, and their simple building blocks. The results are discussed in the framework of the chemical mechanisms underlying photosensitization by drugs and also in connection with the potential of drug excited states as (chiral) reporters for the binding sites of biomolecules.
Integrating molecular switching and chemical reactivity using photoresponsive hexatrienes
Authors: Samachetty Hema D. , Branda Neil R.
Published: December 2006

The use of photoresponsive hexatriene architectures to regulate chemical reactivity is described. The major focus of this report is how the two isomers of dithienylethene derivatives exhibit different steric and electronic properties. The ring-open form is structurally flexible, and the thiophene rings are electronically insulated from each other, while the ring-closed counterpart has a rigid structure, and there is a linear π-conjugated pathway along the molecular backbone. Representative examples that demonstrate how these photoswitches can be used to influence metal coordination, catalysis, and nucleophilicity are highlighted in this overview.
Osteoblast Deletion of Exon 3 of the Androgen Receptor Gene Results in Trabecular Bone Loss in Adult Male Mice
Authors: Notini Amanda J , McManus Julie F , Moore Alison , Bouxsein Mary , Jimenez Mark , Chiu WS Maria , Glatt Vaida , Kream Barbara E , Handelsman David J , Morris Howard A , Zajac Jeffrey D , Davey Rachel A
Published: December 2006

The mechanism of androgen action on bone was studied in male mice with the AR deleted in mature osteoblasts. These mice had decreased trabecular bone volume associated with a decrease in trabecular number, suggesting that androgens may act directly on osteoblasts to maintain trabecular bone.

Introduction: Androgens modulate bone cell activity and are important for the maintenance of bone mass. However, the mechanisms by which they exert these actions on bone remain poorly defined. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of androgens acting through the classical androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathways (i.e., DNA-binding dependent pathways) in osteoblasts using male mice in which exon 3 of the AR gene was deleted specifically in mature osteoblasts.

Materials and Methods: Mice with a floxed exon 3 of the AR gene were bred with Col 2.3-cre transgenic mice, in which Cre recombinase is expressed in mineralizing osteoblasts. The skeletal phenotype of mutant mice was assessed by histomorphometry and quantitative μCT at 6, 12, and 32 weeks of age (n = 8 per group). Wildtype, hemizygous exon 3 floxed and hemizygous Col 2.3-cre male littermates were used as controls. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's posthoc test.

Results: μCT analysis of the fifth lumbar vertebral body showed that these mice had reduced trabecular bone volume (p < 0.05) at 32 weeks of age compared with controls. This was associated with a decrease in trabecular number (p < 0.01) at 12 and 32 weeks of age, suggesting increased bone resorption. These effects were accompanied by a reduction in connectivity density (p < 0.01) and an increase in trabecular separation (p < 0.01). A similar pattern of trabecular bone loss was observed in the distal femoral metaphysis at 32 weeks of age.

Conclusions: These findings show that inactivation of the DNA binding–dependent functions of the AR, specifically in mature osteoblasts in male mice, results in increased bone resorption and decreased structural integrity of the bone, leading to a reduction in trabecular bone volume at 32 weeks of age. These data provide evidence of a role for androgens in the maintenance of trabecular bone volume directly through DNA binding–dependent actions of the AR in mature osteoblasts.
Ethical Principles for Research Governance of Biobanks
Authors: Chalmers Don
Published: December 2006

Biobanks of collected human tissue samples are rapidly expanding and becoming „essential tools in translating biomedical research into real improvements in health care”. Biobanks are rich sources for genetic research. The German National Ethics Council has noted, for example, the potential of biobanks for the identification of causes of disease and for breakthroughs in medical and pharmaceutical research. Unsurprisingly, many pharmaceutical companies operate biobank collections for research purposes and to enrol suitable clinical trial recruits so as to minimise side effects and achieve better results. Biobanks are also essential tools for conducting large-scale epidemiological studies, involving whole populations (with the neologism „epigenetic”). One commentator has noted that biobanks are invariably ”staggeringly expensive”
Genetic resources, biotechnology and intellectual property: The current debate and developing a constructive agenda for the South
Authors: Ruiz Manuel
Published: December 2006

Over the past few years, policy, legal and economic analysis of the complex relationships between genetic resources, biotechnology and intellectual property has multiplied. These relationships are fundamentally based on issues regarding rights over and control of biodiversity and related inventions and innovation. They notoriously confront biodiversity rich countries of the South, with technologically advanced but biodiversity poor countries of the North. Controversies are often captured under the general discussions on access to genetic resources and benefit sharing (ABS), as placed on the agenda by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) after its adoption in 1992.
Commercialisation of Human Bodily Substances and Human Genetic Information within the Area of Bio- and Tissue-Banks with special Emphasis to Estonia, Iceland, the UK and Germany
Authors: Targiel Julia
Published: December 2006

Technological advances in the past few decades have enabled researchers and physicians to celebrate wondrous medical breakthroughs. Many of these evolutionary progressions are achieved by utilising human body parts and tissues in research. The sequencing of the human genome has provided the international research community with a wealth of new information to use in further researching the role of genetic susceptibility in complex diseases. However, maximizing the utilization of this information to benefit public health globally necessitates population based knowledge regarding the frequency of susceptibility alleles, disease penetrance estimates, and the role of the gene interaction. To fulfil these goals, large regional populations are being recruited in many locations for the development of genetic databases usually called bio banks or genetic banks. The ”bio” in bio bank is derived from living, biological entities: people, animals, plants, bacteria. In the realm of bio banking, people are the source of the raw material for the discovery of genes for research, diagnosis, and therapy, raising a host of issues about rights and responsibilities, fiduciary and societal obligations.
Physical, Performance, and Chemical Changes in Turbine Oils from Oxidation
Authors: Livingstone GJ , Thompson BT , Okazaki ME
Published: December 2006

One of the primary factors in determining the life and performance of turbine oils is its oxidation stability. Oxidation can cause a host of problems for in-service turbine oils, such as sludge, deposits, lacquer, and varnish formation. There is limited published research on the performance of turbine oils once oxidation begins. This paper presents data on the relationship between several turbine oil characteristics during the oxidation process by focusing on the measurable physical and chemical changes that occur. Five turbine oils were chosen, each employing different antioxidants and base oil refining technologies to represent a typical selection of commercially available turbine oils. A 49-day experiment was completed in which the oils were subjected to a controlled and accelerated oxidative process under laboratory conditions. Throughout the testing period, samples were drawn and a range of chemical, physical, and performance tests were performed. The data obtained from this experiment identify several correlations that relate to the performance of each oil. These data are useful in understanding the relationship between turbine oil oxidation and fluid performance and will help end-users in selecting and optimizing their turbine lubricant.
Antipolyribosyl Ribitol Phosphate Response of Premature Infants to Primary and Booster Vaccination With a Combined Diphtheria-Tetanus-Acellular Pertussis-Hepatitis B-Inactivated Polio Virus/Haemophilus influenzaeType b Vaccine
Authors: Omeñaca Felix , Garcia-Sicilia José , García-Corbeira Pilar , Boceta Reyes , Torres Victorio
Published: December 2006

BACKGROUND. Prematurity may be a risk factor for Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine failure. This article evaluates the Haemophilus influenzae type b immunogenicity of a hexavalent diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis-hepatitis B-inactivated poliovirus/Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine in preterm infants (<37 weeks' gestation).

METHODS. This was an open-label, parallel group study. Preterm (N = 94) and term infants (N = 92) received 3 doses of a diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis-hepatitis B-inactivated poliovirus/Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine at 2, 4, and 6 months with a booster dose at 18 to 20 months. Antipolyribosyl ribitol phosphate antibody concentrations were determined in serum samples taken before and 1 month after primary and booster vaccination.

RESULTS. Postprimary seroprotection rates (antipolyribosyl ribitol phosphate ≥0.15 μg/mL) were lower in preterm than in term infants (92.5% vs 97.8%), with antipolyribosyl ribitol phosphate geometric mean concentrations of 2.241 vs 4.247 μg/mL. A progressive reduction in immune response to the Haemophilus influenzae type b antigen was observed with decreasing length of gestation and decreasing birth weight when cutoff ≥1 μg/mL was considered. Prebooster seroprotection rates and antipolyribosyl ribitol phosphate geometric mean concentrations were low in both groups (antipolyribosyl ribitol phosphate ≥1.0 μg/mL in 10.7% of preterm and 28.4% of term infants). A vigorous response to booster vaccination was seen in both groups, with no differences in postbooster seroprotection rates or antipolyribosyl ribitol phosphate geometric mean concentrations between the 2 groups (antipolyribosyl ribitol phosphate ≥1.0 μg/mL in 100% of preterm and 98.5% of term infants).

CONCLUSIONS. Primary vaccination with a hexavalent diphtheria-tetanus-acellular pertussis-hepatitis B-inactivated poliovirus/Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine at 2, 4, and 6 months with a booster dose at 18 to 20 months elicits a satisfactory antipolyribosyl ribitol phosphate response in preterm infants compared with term controls. Immunologic response decreased with decreased gestational age and birth weight.
Cord Blood Cytokines and Acute Lower Respiratory Illnesses in the First Year of Life
Authors: Ly Ngoc P. , Rifas-Shiman Sheryl L. , Litonjua Augusto A. , Tzianabos Arthur O. , Schaub Bianca , Ruiz-Pérez Begoña , Tantisira Kelan G. , Finn Patricia W. , Gillman Matthew W. , Weiss Scott T. , Gold Diane R.
Published: December 2006

OBJECTIVES. Little is known about the relation between cytokine profile at birth and acute lower respiratory illnesses in the first year of life. The purpose of this work was to examine the relation between cytokine secretions by cord blood mononuclear cells and acute lower respiratory illness in a birth cohort of 297 children.

METHODS. Cord blood mononuclear cells were isolated, and secretion of interferon-γ, interleukin-13, interleukin-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α at baseline and in response to allergens (Blatella germanica 2 and Dermatophagoides farinae 1) and mitogen (phytohemagglutinin) were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Acute lower respiratory illness was defined as a parental report of a diagnosis of bronchiolitis, pneumonia, bronchitis, and/or croup by a health care professional in the first year of life. Differences in the levels of cord blood cytokines between children with and without acute lower respiratory illness were examined using 2-sample Wilcoxon tests. Logistic regression models were used to examine the relation between various categories of cord blood cytokines and acute lower respiratory illness.

RESULTS. Median levels of interferon-γ secreted by cord blood mononuclear cells in response to Blatella germanica 2 and Dermatophagoides farinae 1 were higher among children without acute lower respiratory illness as compared with children with acute lower respiratory illness. After adjustment for other covariates, the odds of acute lower respiratory illness was reduced among children in the top category (at or more than the median of detectable values) of interferon-γ level, significantly so in response to Blatella germanica 2.

CONCLUSIONS. In a cohort of children from the general population, we found that upregulated interferon-γ secretion at birth is associated with reduced risk of acute lower respiratory illness in the first year of life.
ÁCIDOS GRAXOS E PROTEÍNA EM GRÃOS DE AMENDOIM EM FUNÇÃO DA CALAGEM E DO MÉTODO DE SECAGEM
Authors: FERNANDEZ ELENA MERCEDES , ROSOLEM CIRO ANTONIO
Published: December 2006

Grãos de amendoim (Arachis hypogaea L.) destinados ao consumo humano permanecem armazenados até sua utilização; daí, a necessidade de que o produto tenha alta qualidade e óleo estável. Em função disso, desenvolveu-se um experimento com amendoim para avaliar o efeito da calagem e da secagem no teor de proteína e na composição dos grãos, com relação aos ácidos graxos. O amendoim cv. Botutatu foi cultivado num latossolo vermelho-escuro de textura média, em São Manuel (SP) sendo os tratamentos das parcelas sem ou com calagem (2,05 t/ha), elevando a saturação por bases a 56%. Os tratamentos das subparcelas foram os métodos de secagem: (1) à sombra; (2) ao sol; (3) ao sol até 24,7% de umidade das sementes e (4) ao sol até 35,9% de umidade das sementes. Os dois últimos tratamentos terminaram a secagem na estufa a 30oC, até atingir 10% de umidade. Determinou-se o teor de proteína e de ácidos graxos. A calagem resultou em aumento no teor de proteína; entretanto, não teve efeito na composição e na qualidade do óleo, e o sistema de secagem não teve efeito no teor de proteína nem na composição do óleo.
O DIÂMETRO DOS TUBOS CRIVADOS E A PRODUÇÃO DE BORRACHA EM CLONES DE SERINGUEIRA
Authors: AZZINI ANISIO , GONÇALVES PAULO DE SOUZA , GONDIM-TOMAZ ROSE MARRY ARAÚJO
Published: December 2006

Determinou-se o diâmetro dos tubos crivados em 15 clones de seringueira [Hevea brasiliensis (Willd. ex Adr. de Juss.) Müell. Arg.], representando material de alta (IAN 873, IAC 41, RRIM 600, PR 107, IAN 717, IAC 54 e IAC 15) e de baixa (IAC 53, IAC 39, IAC 59, IAC 51, IAC 16, IAC 22, IAC 19 e IAC 9) produção de borracha. Os resultados mostraram que houve correlação significativa (R2 = 0,825) entre o diâmetro dos tubos crivados e a produção de borracha (y = 0,1961x2 - 14,77x + 281,7).
HERDABILIDADE E CORRELAÇÕES ENTRE CARACTERÍSTICAS AGRONÔMICAS EM POPULAÇÕES HÍBRIDAS DE TRIGO
Authors: CAMARGO CARLOS EDUARDO DE OLIVEIRA , FERREIRA FILHO ANTONIO WILSON PENTEADO , FELÍCIO JOÃO CARLOS
Published: December 2006

Foram estimados os valores da herdabilidade no sentido restrito referentes ao número de espigas por planta, de espiguetas por espiga, de grãos por espigueta e produção de grãos, bem como as correlações de ambiente, fenotípicas e genéticas, entre essas características. Os estudos foram realizados em cruzamentos entre o IAC-227 (P1), de porte alto, e quatro linhagens mexicanas, de porte baixo: CMH 78.390/CMH 77A.917//CMH 79.215 (P2), CMH 79.959/2* CNO 79 (P3), CMH 79.481/ CMH 77A.917 (P4) e CMH 80A. 747 (P5). Os parentais P1 , P2 e P3 mostraram ser germoplasmas de valor para o programa de melhoramento de trigo visando à obtenção de plantas com maior número de espigas, de espiguetas por espiga e de grãos por espigueta respectivamente. Estimativas médias a altas para herdabilidade no sentido restrito para número de espiguetas por espiga (0,582 a 0,756), com exceção do cruzamento P1 x P2 (0,244), indicaram que a seleção para esse caráter poderia ser feita nas primeiras gerações segregantes. Os valores médios a baixos da herdabilidade no sentido restrito para número de espigas por planta (0,157 a 0,547), de grãos por espigueta (0,225 a 0,327), com exceção do híbrido P1 x P2 (0,604), e produção de grãos (0,421 a 0,550) sugerem que a seleção para esses caracteres poderia ser postergada para as gerações mais avançadas. Os resultados das correlações fenotípicas mostraram apenas ser possível selecionar, ao mesmo tempo, progênies portadoras de alto potencial produtivo com maior número de espigas por planta, de espiguetas por espiga e de grãos por espigueta (exceto para o cruzamento P1 x P3) desde que grandes populações segregantes sejam desenvolvidas para permitir a obtenção dos recombinantes desejáveis.
NÃO-PREFERÊNCIA PARA ALIMENTAÇÃO DA LAGARTA-DO-CARTUCHO EM MILHO
Authors: SILVEIRA LUÍS CLÁUDIO PATERNO , VENDRAMIM JOSÉ DJAIR , ROSSETTO CARLOS JORGE
Published: December 2006

O objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar a não-preferência para alimentação de lagartas de 1o e de 5o ínstares, de Spodoptera frugiperda, em quatro genótipos de milho: IAC701 N, 'IAC7777', Mp707 e Zapalote Chico (ZC). Os ensaios foram realizados em arenas, com livre chance de escolha pelas lagartas, por 24 horas. Com lagartas recém-eclodidas, 1o ínstar, observou-se não-preferência ao ZC e Mp707, nos quais se encontraram apenas 20% das lagartas, em comparação com IAC701 N e 'IAC7777', onde se concentraram 80% delas. No teste com lagartas de 5o ínstar, o consumo das seções foliares foi cerca de duas vezes maior em `IAC701 N, se comparado a `ZC' e `Mp707'. Concluiu-se que a antixenose ou não-preferência é um dos mecanismos de resistência encontrados em ZC e Mp707, materiais estrangeiros que confirmam, nas condições de Campinas, suas características de resistência.
ACÚMULO DE MATÉRIA SECA NA PRESENÇA E NA AUSÊNCIA DE PLANTAS INFESTANTES NO CULTIVAR DE MANDIOCA SRT 59 - BRANCA DE SANTA CATARINA
Authors: PERESSIN VALDEMIR ANTONIO , MONTEIRO DOMINGOS ANTONIO , LORENZI JOSÉ OSMAR , DURIGAN JULIO CEZAR , PITELLI ROBINSON ANTONIO , PERECIN DILERMANDO
Published: December 2006

O período de plantio da cultura da mandioca, no Estado de São Paulo, é extenso, de maio a outubro. Existem grandes diferenças no desenvolvimento de suas plantas e na matointerferência nas diferentes épocas de plantio. Com o objetivo de avaliar a produção e acúmulo de matéria seca das plantas de mandioca cv. SRT 59 - Branca de Santa Catarina, na presença e na ausência de plantas infestantes, foram desenvolvidos quatro experimentos, em quatro épocas de plantio, em blocos ao acaso, com três repetições (com plantio em 30-10-1989) ou quatro (com plantios em 28-6-1989; 30-6-1989 e 23-7-1990). As plantas foram submetidas a períodos crescentes na presença e na ausência de plantas infestantes e amostradas aos 30, 60, 90, 120, 150, 180, 210, 240, 270 e 360 dias a partir do plantio. Análises de crescimento da cultura evidenciaram que, nas parcelas mantidas por períodos no mato, houve drástica redução no acúmulo de matéria seca pelas plantas, estando as perdas de produção de raízes próximas de 90%. As curvas de acúmulo de matéria seca nas raízes foram mais bem explicadas pela equação sigmoidal de Boltzman, embora, para os períodos crescentes na presença de plantas infestantes, para dois dos experimentos, os coeficientes de determinação não tenham sido significativos. As maiores produções de matéria seca nas raízes foram obtidas aos 360 dias do plantio.
INTERAÇÃO ENTRE GENÓTIPOS E AMBIENTE NA PRODUTIVIDADE E NA QUALIDADE TECNOLÓGICA DOS GRÃOS DE TRIGO NO ESTADO DE SÃO PAULO
Authors: FELÍCIO JOÃO CARLOS , CAMARGO CARLOS EDUARDO DE OLIVEIRA , GERMANI ROGÉRIO , MAGNO CRISTINA DE PAULA RIBEIRO DOS SANTOS
Published: December 2006

Avaliou-se a influência do ambiente na produtividade e na qualidade tecnológica de dezenove genótipos de trigo, mediante seis experimentos instalados, em condições de sequeiro e de irrigação por aspersão, em 1992, em duas regiões tritícolas paulistas. Destacaram-se para a produtividade de grãos os genótipos IAC 304, IAPAR 60, IAC 303, IAC 313, IAC 350, IAC 332, IAC 306, IAC 309, IAC 297, IAC 324 e IAC 325, na condição de sequeiro, e IAC 312 e IAPAR 60, quando se empregou irrigação. A diferença na produtividade com a irrigação por aspersão foi de 124% na média geral entre os experimentos. As condições climáticas da região de Mococa (SP) e o uso da irrigação por aspersão apresentaram tendência de melhorar o peso hectolítrico, o rendimento em farinha, a sedimentação e a energia de deformação da massa (W). Entretanto, não influenciou os parâmetros farinográficos, como percentual de absorção de água, tempo de desenvolvimento da massa e estabilidade. Somente o índice de tolerância à mistura foi influenciado para melhor nessa condição. Os genótipos IAC 24, IAC 287, IAC 353, IAC 297, Anahuac e IAC 311 apresentaram alto valor de estabilidade e IAC 24, IAC 353, IAC 297, Anahuac, IAC 306, IAC 313, IAC 311 e IAC 332, alto valor de W, indicativo da força de panificação. O coeficiente de correlação entre sedimentação (SDS) e W apresentou-se significativo, indicando que o método de sedimentação poderia ser utilizado nas primeiras fases de seleção para qualidade.
ADUBAÇÃO FOSFATADA E ÉPOCAS DE COLHEITA DO AMENDOIM: EFEITOS NA PRODUÇÃO DE ÓLEO E DE PROTEÍNA
Authors: KASAI FRANCISCO SEIITI , ATHAYDE MANOEL LUIZ FERREIRA , GODOY IGNÁCIO JOSÉ DE
Published: December 2006

Os experimentos foram realizados em um latossolo vermelho-escuro, textura média, em Adamantina (SP), para avaliar os efeitos da adubação fosfatada e da colheita em diferentes estádios de maturação do amendoim nos teores de óleo e de proteína dos grãos e na produção de óleo e de proteína. O experimento constituiu-se de blocos ao acaso com parcelas subdivididas, com três repetições, nas quais as parcelas foram as doses de P e as subparcelas, distribuídas ao acaso, foram as épocas de colheita. As doses de fósforo foram 0, 40 e 80 kg/ha de P2O5 e, as épocas de colheita foram em seis estádios de maturação, aos 78, 85, 92, 99, 106 e 113 e aos 79, 86, 93, 100, 107 e 114 dias após emergência, respectivamente, em 1992/93 e 1993/94. O teor de óleo nos grãos variou segundo os estádios de colheita e de ano para ano e o de proteína aumentou com o retardamento da colheita. Os teores de óleo e de proteína nos grãos e as produções de óleo e de proteína não variaram com a adubação fosfatada.
AVALIAÇÃO DE RUÍDO E VIBRAÇÃO EM MOTOSSERRA: RESULTADOS PARCIAIS
Authors: CUNHA IRLON ÂNGELO DA , YAMASHITA ROSA YASUKO , CORRÊA ILA MARIA , MAZIERO JOSÉ VALDEMAR GONZALES , MACIEL ANTÔNIO JOSÉ DA SILVA
Published: December 2006

A motosserra, equipamento de alto potencial de risco à segurança e saúde dos operadores, mereceu especial atenção do Governo Federal, visando regulamentar a fabricação, a importação e a venda quanto aos aspectos relativos à segurança. Nesse contexto, está sendo desenvolvido o presente trabalho, cujo objetivo principal é avaliar os níveis de ruído e vibração emitidos por algumas motosserras comercializadas no Brasil. Na fase inicial do trabalho, estudaram-se os métodos internacionais, realizando-se algumas medições para avaliação das dificuldades operacionais.
Inheritance of malate dehydrogenase in wild pepper
Authors: SCHUELTER ADILSON RICKEN , CASALI VICENTE WAGNER DIAS , FINGER FERNANDO LUIZ
Published: December 2006

Leaf extracts from wild pepper (Capsicum flexuosum Sendt) were analysed for the presence of malate dehydrogenase (E.C. 1.1.1.37; MDH) isozymes using starch gel electrophoresis. Seven phenotypes for MDH isozymes were observed in the genitors. Genetic analysis in F1 progenies revealed five loci coding for MDH. Isozyme banding patterns of hybrids indicated that MDH-3 and MDH-4 genes code for monomeric enzymes, while MDH-5 for a dimeric isoform. In MDH-2 loci, one particular F1 progeny showed a significant deviation from the expected isozyme pattern. It is possible that other genes are controlling the expression of MDH-2 in pepper. Also, there are two alleles coding for MDH-2 isozyme. On the other hand, MDH-1 was monomorphic for all genotypes used in the experiment.
Análise da capacidade combinatória em berinjela
Authors: SILVA DERLY JOSÉ HENRIQUES DA , COSTA CYRO PAULINO DA , CASALI VICENTE WAGNER DIAS , DIAS LUÍZ ANTÔNIO DOS SANTOS , CRUZ COSME DAMIÃO
Published: December 2006

Cinco acessos de berinjela (Solanum melongena L.) - 1: PI 206472; 2: 'Long green'; 3: 'Campineira'; 4: 'Flórida Market' e 5: 'E-22' - e os seguintes híbridos entre eles, 1 x 3; 1 x 4; 2 x 4; 2 x 5 e 3 x 5 de frutos comerciais, foram avaliados quanto ao comprimento médio, ao diâmetro médio, ao peso médio, ao número médio por planta e à produção de frutos. As médias dos híbridos 1 x 2, 1 x 5, 2 x 3, 3 x 4 e 4 x 5 foram preditas, com base no método para dialelo circulante. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar acessos e híbridos de berinjela promissores para programas de melhoramento. A análise dialélica demonstrou a predominância dos efeitos gênicos aditivos para todos os caracteres analisados. Com base nas estimativas de capacidade geral de combinação, os acessos PI 206472 e 'Campineira' foram indicados para programas de melhoramento intrapopulacional. Entre os híbridos analisados e preditos 1 x 3, 1 x 4, 1 x 5, e 3 x 5 apresentaram potencial para exploração comercial.