bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TRPM2 Channels Are Required for NMDA-Induced Burst Firing and Contribute to H2O2-Dependent Modulation in Substantia Nigra Pars Reticulata GABAergic Neurons
Authors: Lee Christian R. , Machold Robert P. , Witkovsky Paul , Rice Margaret E.
Published: January 2013

Substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) GABAergic neurons are projection neurons that convey output from the basal ganglia to target structures. These neurons exhibit spontaneous regular firing, but also exhibit burst firing in the presence of NMDA or when excitatory glutamatergic input to the SNr is activated. Notably, an increase in burst firing is also seen in Parkinson's disease. Therefore, elucidating conductances that mediate spontaneous activity and changes of firing pattern in these neurons is essential for understanding how the basal ganglia control movement. Usingex vivoslices of guinea pig midbrain, we show that SNr GABAergic neurons express transient receptor potential melastatin 2 (TRPM2) channels that underlie NMDA-induced burst firing. Furthermore, we show that spontaneous firing rate and burst activity are modulated by the reactive oxygen species H2O2acting via TRPM2 channels. Thus, our results indicate that activation of TRPM2 channels is necessary for burst firing in SNr GABAergic neurons and their responsiveness to modulatory H2O2. These findings have implications not only for normal regulation, but also for Parkinson's disease, which involves excitotoxicity and oxidative stress.
Regulation of Kv2.1 K+Conductance by Cell Surface Channel Density
Authors: Fox Philip D. , Loftus Rob J. , Tamkun Michael M.
Published: January 2013

The Kv2.1 voltage-gated K+channel is found both freely diffusing over the plasma membrane and concentrated in micron-sized clusters localized to the soma, proximal dendrites, and axon initial segment of hippocampal neurons. In transfected HEK cells, Kv2.1 channels within cluster microdomains are nonconducting. Using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy, the number of GFP-tagged Kv2.1 channels on the HEK cell surface was compared with K+channel conductance measured by whole-cell voltage clamp of the same cell. This approach indicated that, as channel density increases, nonclustered channels cease conducting. At the highest density observed, only 4% of all channels were conducting. Mutant Kv2.1 channels that fail to cluster also possessed the nonconducting state with 17% conducting K+at higher surface densities. The nonconducting state was specific to Kv2.1 as Kv1.4 was always conducting regardless of the cell-surface expression level. Anti-Kv2.1 immunofluorescence intensity, standardized to Kv2.1 surface density in transfected HEK cells, was used to determine the expression levels of endogenous Kv2.1 in cultured rat hippocampal neurons. Endogenous Kv2.1 levels were compared with the number of conducting channels determined by whole-cell voltage clamp. Only 13 and 27% of the endogenous Kv2.1 was conducting in neurons cultured for 14 and 20 d, respectively. Together, these data indicate that the nonconducting state depends primarily on surface density as opposed to cluster location and that this nonconducting state also exists for native Kv2.1 found in cultured hippocampal neurons. This excess of Kv2.1 protein relative to K+conductance further supports a nonconducting role for Kv2.1 in excitable tissues.
Double Dissociation of the Requirement for GluN2B- and GluN2A-Containing NMDA Receptors in the Destabilization and Restabilization of a Reconsolidating Memory
Authors: Milton Amy L. , Merlo Emiliano , Ratano Patrizia , Gregory Ben L. , Dumbreck Jessica K. , Everitt Barry J.
Published: January 2013

Signaling at NMDA receptors (NMDARs) is known to be important for memory reconsolidation, but while most studies show that NMDAR antagonists prevent memory restabilization and produce amnesia, others have shown that GluN2B-selective NMDAR antagonists prevent memory destabilization, protecting the memory. These apparently paradoxical, conflicting data provide an opportunity to define more precisely the requirement for different NMDAR subtypes in the mechanisms underlying memory reconsolidation and to further understand the contribution of glutamatergic signaling to this process. Here, using rats with fully consolidated pavlovian auditory fear memories, we demonstrate a double dissociation in the requirement for GluN2B-containing and GluN2A-containing NMDARs within the basolateral amygdala in the memory destabilization and restabilization processes, respectively. We further show a double dissociation in the mechanisms underlying memory retrieval and memory destabilization, since AMPAR antagonism prevented memory retrieval while still allowing the destabilization process to occur. These data demonstrate that glutamatergic signaling mechanisms within the basolateral amygdala differentially and dissociably mediate the retrieval, destabilization, and restabilization of previously consolidated fear memories.
Ciliary Neurotrophic Factor Receptor Regulation of Adult Forebrain Neurogenesis
Authors: Lee Nancy , Batt Myra K. , Cronier Brigitte A. , Jackson Michele C. , Bruno Garza Jennifer L. , Trinh Dennis S. , Mason Carter O. , Spearry Rachel P. , Bhattacharya Shayon , Robitz Rachel , Nakafuku Masato , MacLennan A. John
Published: January 2013

Appropriately targeted manipulation of endogenous neural stem progenitor (NSP) cells may contribute to therapies for trauma, stroke, and neurodegenerative disease. A prerequisite to such therapies is a better understanding of the mechanisms regulating adult NSP cellsin vivo. Indirect data suggest that endogenous ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) receptor signaling may inhibit neuronal differentiation of NSP cells. We challenged subventricular zone (SVZ) cellsin vivowith low concentrations of CNTF to anatomically characterize cells containing functional CNTF receptors. We found that type B “stem” cells are highly responsive, whereas type C “transit-amplifying” cells and type A neuroblasts are remarkably unresponsive, as are GFAP+astrocytes found outside the SVZ. CNTF was identified in a subset of type B cells that label with acute BrdU administration. Disruption ofin vivoCNTF receptor signaling in SVZ NSP cells, with a “floxed” CNTF receptor α (CNTFRα) mouse line and a gene construct driving Cre recombinase (Cre) expression in NSP cells, led to increases in SVZ-associated neuroblasts and new olfactory bulb neurons, as well as a neuron subtype-specific, adult-onset increase in olfactory bulb neuron populations. Adult-onset receptor disruption in SVZ NSP cells with a recombinant adeno-associated virus (AAV-Cre) also led to increased neurogenesis. However, the maintenance of type B cell populations was apparently unaffected by the receptor disruption. Together, the data suggest that endogenous CNTF receptor signaling in type B stem cells inhibits adult neurogenesis, and further suggest that the regulation may occur in a neuron subtype-specific manner.
Salience Signals in the Right Temporoparietal Junction Facilitate Value-Based Decisions
Authors: Kahnt Thorsten , Tobler Philippe N.
Published: January 2013

Value-based decisions optimize the relation of costs and benefits. Costs and benefits confer not only value but also salience, which may influence decision making through attentional mechanisms. However, the computational and neurobiological role of salience in value-based decisions remains elusive. Here we develop and contrast two formal concepts of salience for value-based choices involving costs and benefits. Specifically, global salience (GS) first integrates costs and benefits and then determines salience based on this overall sum, whereas elemental salience (ES) first determines the salience of costs and benefits before integrating them. We dissociate the behavioral and neural effects of GS and ES from those of value using a value-based decision-making task and fMRI in humans. Specifically, we show that value guides choices and correlates with neural signals in the striatum. In contrast, only ES but not GS impacts decision making by speeding up reaction times. Moreover, activity in the right temporoparietal junction (RTPJ) reflects only ES and correlates with its response-accelerating behavioral effects. Finally, we report an ES-dependent change in functional connectivity between the RTPJ and the locus ceruleus, suggesting noradrenergic processes underlying the response-facilitating effects of ES on decision making. Together, these results support a novel concept of salience in value-based decision making and suggest a computational, anatomical, and neurochemical dissociation of value- and salience-based factors supporting value-based choices.
Mutation of a NCKX Eliminates Glial Microdomain Calcium Oscillations and Enhances Seizure Susceptibility
Authors: Melom Jan E. , Littleton J. Troy
Published: January 2013

Glia exhibit spontaneous and activity-dependent fluctuations in intracellular Ca2+, yet it is unclear whether glial Ca2+oscillations are required during neuronal signaling. Somatic glial Ca2+waves are primarily mediated by the release of intracellular Ca2+stores, and their relative importance in normal brain physiology has been disputed. Recently, near-membrane microdomain Ca2+transients were identified in fine astrocytic processes and found to arise via an intracellular store-independent process. Here, we describe the identification of rapid, near-membrane Ca2+oscillations inDrosophilacortex glia of the CNS. In a screen for temperature-sensitive conditional seizure mutants, we identified a glial-specific Na+/Ca2+, K+exchanger (zydeco) that is required for microdomain Ca2+oscillatory activity. We found thatzydecomutant animals exhibit increased susceptibility to seizures in response to a variety of environmental stimuli, and thatzydecois required acutely in cortex glia to regulate seizure susceptibility. We also found that glial expression of calmodulin is required for stress-induced seizures inzydecomutants, suggesting a Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent glial signaling pathway underlies glial–neuronal communication. These studies demonstrate that microdomain glial Ca2+oscillations require NCKX-mediated plasma membrane Ca2+flux, and that acute dysregulation of glial Ca2+signaling triggers seizures.
Interaction of Numerosity and Time in Prefrontal and Parietal Cortex
Authors: Hayashi Masamichi J. , Kanai Ryota , Tanabe Hiroki C. , Yoshida Yumiko , Carlson Synnöve , Walsh Vincent , Sadato Norihiro
Published: January 2013

It has been proposed that numerical and temporal information are processed by partially overlapping magnitude systems. Interactions across different magnitude domains could occur both at the level of perception and decision-making. However, their neural correlates have been elusive. Here, using functional magnetic resonance imaging in humans, we show that the right intraparietal cortex (IPC) and inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) are jointly activated by duration and numerosity discrimination tasks, with a congruency effect in the right IFG. To determine whether the IPC and the IFG are involved in response conflict (or facilitation) or modulation of subjective passage of time by numerical information, we examined their functional roles using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and two different numerosity–time interaction tasks: duration discrimination and time reproduction tasks. Our results show that TMS of the right IFG impairs categorical duration discrimination, whereas that of the right IPC modulates the degree of influence of numerosity on time perception and impairs precise time estimation. These results indicate that the right IFG is specifically involved at the categorical decision stage, whereas bleeding of numerosity information on perception of time occurs within the IPC. Together, our findings suggest a two-stage model of numerosity–time interactions whereby the interaction at the perceptual level occurs within the parietal region and the interaction at categorical decisions takes place in the prefrontal cortex.
Psychotherapy Researchers: Reported Misbehaviors and Opinions
Authors: Braun Malena , Roussos Andrés J.
Published: January 2013

The ethical practices of psycho therapy researchers were surveyed online. A total of 257 completed surveys were received from researchers worldwide. Eighty-nine percent of researchers admitted to at least one of the listed behaviors. The most common faults were related to excessive work demands: 44% of the respondents reported “inadequate monitoring of research projects due to work overload” and 37% reported “cutting corners in a hurry to complete a project.” North America was lower in almost all of the reported behaviors. The results about specific behaviors related to psychotherapy research for which rules are still fuzzy reflect the disagreement among researchers. The high prevalence of misbehavior in psychotherapy research is a warning that cannot be ignored.
Witnesses to Research Wrongdoing
Authors: Sieber Joan E.
Published: January 2013

Research wrongdoing undermines scientific integrity, occurs widely, and takes many forms. We interviewed 135 NIH principal investigators who reported witnessing and responding to research wrongdoing. They reported taking a variety of actions, including formal notification of institutional officials, peer shaming, and one-on-one discussions with their peers to address wrongdoing that ranged from improper attribution of authorship to falsification, fabrication, and plagiarism. Unexpectedly, administrative mismanagement in handling allegations appeared more prevalent than any of the other forms of wrongdoing reported. Institutions may lack effective or efficient processes for managing even the most egregious cases of research wrongdoing. To assist institutions in designing effective, nimble programs, we suggest resources from which institutional officials may draw.
Facilitating Enrollment in a Cancer Registry Through Modified Consent Procedures: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mazanec Susan , Daly Barbara , Meropol Neal J. , Step Mary
Published: January 2013

Research registries are increasingly important in medical research and are essential to the mission of cancer centers. However, designing enrollment and data collection procedures that are consistent with ethical norms and regulatory requirements yet are efficient and cost effective is a major challenge. Current standard consent forms can be a barrier to enrollment because of their length, multiple components, and technical language. We pilot tested an IRB-approved registry booklet and simplified one-page, tiered consent form, allowing for choice of extent of participation. The booklet was mailed to patients with breast cancer as part of their routine information packet prior to the first clinic appointment. A research nurse met with 27 patients at initial treatment to review the booklet, answer questions, obtain informed consent, and collect quality of life data. The consent rate was 78% with 21 patients enrolling in the study. Twelve of the 21 patients (57%) did not read the booklet prior to the visit. The 9 patients (43%) who had read the booklet prior to arrival found it easy to understand. The multistage, simplified consent process and data collection were acceptable to these patients and readily integrated into clinical operations. An easy-to-read registry booklet may be an effective guide for discussion, but in-person consent procedures and further testing of the approach are required.
Genetic analysis in young patients with sporadic pituitary macroadenomas: besides AIP don't forget MEN1 genetic analysis
Authors: Cuny Thomas , Pertuit Morgane , Sahnoun-Fathallah Mona , Daly Adrian , Occhi Gianluca , Odou Marie Françoise , Tabarin Antoine , Nunes Marie Laure , Delemer Brigitte , Rohmer Vincent , Desailloud Rachel , Kerlan Véronique , Chabre Olivier , Sadoul Jean-Louis , Cogne Muriel , Caron Philippe , Cortet-Rudelli Christine , Lienhardt Anne , Raingeard Isabelle , Guedj Anne-Marie , Brue Thierry , Beckers Albert , Weryha Georges , Enjalbert Alain , Barlier Anne
Published: January 2013

Context

Germline mutations in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor interacting protein gene (AIP) have been identified in young patients (age ≤30 years old) with sporadic pituitary macroadenomas. Otherwise, there are few data concerning the prevalence of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) mutations in such a population.

Objective

We assessed the prevalence of both AIP and MEN1 genetic abnormalities (mutations and large gene deletions) in young patients (age ≤30 years old) diagnosed with sporadic and isolated macroadenoma, without hypercalcemia and/or MEN1-associated lesions.

Design

The entire coding sequences of AIP and MEN1 were screened for mutations. In cases of negative sequencing screening, multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification was performed for the detection of large genetic deletions.

Patients and settings

One hundred and seventy-four patients from endocrinology departments of 15 French University Hospital Centers were eligible for this study.

Results

Twenty-one out of 174 (12%) patients had AIP (n=15, 8.6%) or MEN1 (n=6, 3.4%) mutations. In pediatric patients (age ≤18 years old), AIP/MEN1 mutation frequency reached nearly 22% (n=10/46). AIPmut and MEN1mut were identified in 8/79 (10.1%) and 1/79 (1.2%) somatotropinoma patients respectively; they each accounted for 4/74 (5.4%) prolactinoma (PRL) patients with mutations. Half of those patients (n=3/6) with gigantism displayed mutations in AIP. Interestingly, 4/12 (33%) patients with non-secreting adenomas bore either AIP or MEN1 mutations, whereas none of the eight corticotroph adenomas or the single thyrotropinoma case had mutations. No large gene deletions were observed in sequencing-negative patients.

Conclusion

Mutations in MEN1 can be of significance in young patients with sporadic isolated pituitary macroadenomas, particularly PRL, and together with AIP, we suggest genetic analysis of MEN1 in such a population.
CdS and ZnS Nanoparticles Growth in Different Reaction Media: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Antolini F. , Trave E. , Mirenghi L. , Re M. , Mattei G. , Tapfer L. , Mazzoldi P.
Published: January 2013

In this work we report on the growth of cadmium sulfide and zinc sulfide nanocrystals by thermolysis, starting from a metal thiolate in a (i) solventless way, (ii) by a novel route in tryoctilphosphine oxide (TOPO), and (iii) by direct synthesis in a polystyrene matrix. The x-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) show that the nanocrystals fabricated by the different methods are under optimized growth conditions single crystals of zincblende structure and of regular spherical shape. The average size was estimated to be between 2.0-3.0 nm with a size dispersion that depends on the synthesis route and is in the range between 10% and 20%. The XPS results indicate that for the nanoparticles obtained via solventless strategy the sulfur is present both as bonded to the metal atom and to the organic residue, while in the TOPO synthesized nanoparticles the sulfur signal has only one component associated to the metal-sulfide bond. The photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL) analysis of CdS crystals clearly evidences the typical emissions of nanosized zincblende CdS monocrystalline particles. Furthermore, the optical spectroscopy data indicate that the size distribution of the Cdsulfide - TOPO nanoparticles seems to be generally larger than that ones grown directly in polymer matrix. For all the CdS samples, the metal-sulfide nanocrystals exhibit a trap-related radiative transition at about 2eV that can be attributed to the hole-electron recombination at particle surface defect-center.
Programa de Triagem Neonatal para hipotireoidismo congênito de Santa Catarina, Brasil: avaliação etiológica no primeiro atendimento
Authors: Nascimento Marilza Leal , Rabello Fernanda Hostim , Ohira Masanao , Simoni Genoir , Cechinel Edson , Linhares Rose Marie Muller , Silva Paulo César Alves da
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a etiologia, no primeiro atendimento, dos casos de hipotireoidismo congênito primário (HCP) identificados pelo Programa de Triagem Neonatal de Santa Catarina entre julho de 2007 e junho de 2009. SUJEITOS E MÉTODOS: Estudo prospectivo com 45 pacientes com HCP confirmado. Para o diagnóstico etiológico, eram realizados na primeira consulta: anamnese, exames físico e complementares (TSH, tiroxina livre, tireoglobulina, idade óssea, ultrassonografia de tireoide). RESULTADOS: Estabeleceu-se o diagnóstico etiológico na primeira consulta em 53,33%. Disgenesia representou 51,11%, sendo 20% hipoplasia, 13,3% atireose e 17,7% ectopia; e 2,2% foram diagnosticados com disormoniogênese. Hérnia umbilical foi o sinal mais prevalente (48,89%) e 20% não apresentaram manifestação clínica. Aqueles com disgenesia apresentaram diferença significativa (p < 0,05) pela via de parto cesária, idade óssea atrasada e TSH sérico muito elevado. CONCLUSÕES: A abordagem diagnóstica realizada no primeiro atendimento determina a etiologia do HCP em 53,3% dos casos. A metade dos pacientes apresenta disgenesia tireoidiana. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(9):627-32
Spontaneous puberty in girls with early diagnosis of Turner syndrome
Authors: Carpini Stela , Carvalho Annelise Barreto , Guerra-Júnior Gil , Baptista Maria Tereza Matias , Lemos-Marini Sofia Helena Valente , Maciel-Guerra Andréa Trevas
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE: To verify if the frequency of spontaneous pubertal development among girls with Turner syndrome (TS) diagnosed in infancy and childhood is greater than that of patients diagnosed later. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Thirty three girls aged < 10 years at the time of diagnosis were evaluated regarding pubertal development. The frequency of spontaneous puberty was compared with that of girls aged > 13 years diagnosed at the same service. RESULTS: Sixteen of 32 informative patients had signs of spontaneous puberty, a frequency greater than that of patients diagnosed later. In six patients, there was no progression of puberty; menarche occurred in six, and one became pregnant, but the fetus was a stillborn. Spontaneous puberty was absent in all cases with 45,X karyotype. CONCLUSIONS: The greater prevalence of spontaneous puberty in girls whose diagnosis was not based on pubertal delay suggests that, among those diagnosed later, there is a bias towards patients with hypogonadism. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(9):653-7
Development, characterization and clinical validation of new sensitive immunofluorometric assay for the measurement of serum thyroglobulin
Authors: Nakabashi Cláudia C. D. , Biscolla Rosa Paula M. , Kasamatsu Teresa S. , Tachibana Teresinha T. , Barcelos Rafaela N. , Malouf Eduardo Z. , Andreoni Danielle M. , Maciel Rui M. B. , Vieira José Gilberto H.
Published: January 2013

OBJECTIVE: In the last decade, data published stressed the role of highly-sensitive thyroglobulin (Tg) assays in the follow-up of differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) patients. The present study describes a new, highly-sensitive Tg assay, compares it with an available commercial assay, and validates it in the follow-up of DTC patients. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The immunofluorometric high-sensitivity Tg assay is based on monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies produced at our laboratories. It was validated in 100 samples of 87 patients with DTC submitted to total thyroidectomy, 87% of whom also received radioiodine. For correlation, all samples were also tested using a commercial Tg assay (Beckman Access) with functional sensitivity (FS) of 0.1 ng/mL. RESULTS: The new method showed FS of 0.3 ng/mL. The correlation between the two methods was good (r = 0.74; p < 0.0001). The diagnostic sensitivity was 88.9%, and it was increased to 100% when combined with neck US. CONCLUSION: This new, high-sensitivity Tg assay presented a good correlation with Beckman Access assay and with the clinical outcome of the patients. The continuous availability of a validated assay is an additional advantage for long term follow-up of DTC patients. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(9):658-65
Hipoglicemia hiperinsulinêmica da infância: Análise de dados clínicos de uma amostra brasileira
Authors: Liberatore Junior Raphael Del Roio , Negri Alcinda Aranha , Martinelli Junior Carlos Eduardo , Kochi Cristiane , Silva Ivani Novato , Collett-Solberg Paulo Ferrez
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: Rever a apresentação dos casos de hipoglicemia hiperinsulinêmica da infância (HHI), tratamento e histologia nos serviços de endocrinologia pediátrica no Brasil. MATERIAIS E MÉTODO: Os serviços receberam protocolo para resgatar dados de nascimento, resultados laboratoriais, tipo de tratamento instituído, necessidade de pancreatectomia e histologia. RESULTADOS: Vinte e cinco casos de HHI de seis centros foram resgatados, 15 do sexo masculino, 3/25 nascidos de parto normal. A mediana de idade do diagnóstico foi 10,3 dias. As dosagens de glicose e insulina na amostra sérica crítica apresentaram mediana de 24,7 mg/dL e 26,3 UI/dL. A velocidade de infusão de glicose endovenosa foi superior a 10 mg/kg/min em todos os casos (M:19,1). Diazóxido foi utilizado em 15/25, octreotide em 10, corticoide em 8, hormônio de crescimento em 3, nifedipina em 2 e glucagon em 1. Quarenta por cento (10/25) foram pancreatectomizados, nos quais a análise histológica revelou a forma difusa da patologia. CONCLUSÃO: Primeira análise crítica de uma amostra brasileira de portadores de HHI congênita. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(9):666-71
Ovarian intratumoral 21-hydroxylase deficiency in a postmenopausal hirsute woman
Authors: Souto Selma B. , Baptista Pedro V. , Barreto Filomena , Sousa Pedro F. , Braga Daniel C. , Carvalho Davide
Published: January 2013

Virilising ovarian tumours are a rare cause of hyperandrogenism in women, accounting for less than 5% of all ovarian neoplasms. It occurs most often in - and postmenopausal women. We report a case of a 64 year-old woman with signs of virilisation that had started 3 years before. Blood hormone analysis revealed increased levels of testosterone, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone. The tetracosactin test revealed 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Radiological imaging demonstrated a nodule in her left ovary. The patient was submitted to bilateral laparoscopic oophorectomy, and histopathological examination revealed a luteoma of the left ovary. Postoperative serum testosterone level and 17-hydroxyprogesterone returned to normal levels in one month. Virilism regressed within six months. Our patient also showed an elevation in 17-OHP serum levels. Normalization of 17-OHP after oophorectomy suggests a case of intratumoral 21-hydroxylase deficiency. To our knowledge, this is the first description of ovarian intratumoral 21-hydroxylase deficiency in a postmenopausal woman. Arq Bras Endocrinol Metab. 2012;56(9):672-6
Trashepatic left gastric vein embolization in the treatment of recurrent hemorrhaging in patients with schistosomiasis previously submitted to non-derivative surgery
Authors: Saad Paulo Fernandes , Razuk Álvaro , Telles Gustavo José Politzer , Park Jong Hun , Esteves Fernando Pinho , Caffaro Roberto Augusto
Published: January 2013

CONTEXT: Non-derivative surgical techniques are the treatment of choice for the control of upper digestive tract hemorrhages after schistosomotic portal hypertension. However, recurrent hemorrhaging due to gastroesophagic varices is frequent. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the outcome of treatment based on embolization of the left gastric vein to control the reoccurrence of hemorrhages caused by gastroesophagic varices in patients with schistosomiasis previously submitted to non-derivative surgery. METHODS: Rates of reoccurrence of hemorrhages and the qualitative and quantitative reduction of gastroesophagic varices in patients undergoing transhepatic embolization of the left gastric vein between December 1999 and January 2009 were studied based on medical charts and follow-up reports. RESULTS: Seven patients with a mean age of 39.3 years underwent percutaneous transhepatic embolization of the left gastric vein. The mean time between azigoportal disconnections employed in combination with splenectomy and the percutaneous approach was 8.4 ± 7.3 years, and the number of episodes of digestive hemorrhaging ranged from 1 to 7 years. No episodes of reoccurrence of hemorrhaging were found during a follow-up period which ranged from 6 months to 7 years. Endoscopic postembolization studies revealed reductions in gastroesophagic varices in all patients compared to preembolization endoscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Percutaneous transhepatic embolization of the left gastric vein in patients with schistosomiasis previously submitted to surgery resulted in a decrease in gastroesophagic varices and was shown to be effective in controlling hemorrhage reoccurrence.
Evaluation of small intestine bacterial overgrowth in patients with functional dyspepsia through H2 breath test
Authors: Costa Michelle Bafutto Gomes , Azeredo Jr. Itaciron Luz , Marciano Ricardo Duarte , Caldeira Luciana Morelli , Bafutto Mauro
Published: January 2013

CONTEXT: Functional dyspepsia is a condition in which symptoms are not related to organic underlying disease; its pathogenesis is not well known. The small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is characterized by the increase in the number and/or type of colonic bacteria in the upper gastrointestinal tract. The hypothesis of SIBO being associated to functional dyspepsia must be considered, since the impaired motility of the gastrointestinal tract is one of the main etiologic factors involved on both pathologies. OBJECTIVE: To determine if there is SIBO in patients with functional dyspepsia. METHODS: Case-control study, evaluating 34 patients: 23 functional dyspeptic and 11 non-dyspeptic (control group). Questionnaire applied based on Rome III criteria. The patients underwent H2-lactulose breath test, considered positive when: H2 peak exceeding 20 ppm, in relation to fasting, or two peaks exceeding 10 ppm sustained until 60 minutes. RESULTS: Of the 23 dyspeptic patients, 13 (56.5%) obtained positive results for SIBO trough the H2-lactulose breath test. On control group, SIBO was not observed. The association between the dyspeptic group and the control group regarding SIBO was statistically significant, with P = 0.0052. In the group of dyspeptic patients, 12 (52.2%) were using proton pump inhibitor; of these 9 (75%) were positive for SIBO. In the control group, none of the 11 patients used proton pump inhibitors and SIBO was not observed. The association of the dyspeptic group using proton pump inhibitor that were positive for SIBO and the control group was statistically significant, with P = 0.0011. CONCLUSION: It was found that, patients with functional dyspepsia presented SIBO, when they underwent to H2-lactulose breath test, compared to the non-dyspeptic. In addition, it was observed a higher prevalence of SIBO in dyspeptic patients that were using proton pump inhibitors, compared to control group.
Refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Moraes-Filho Joaquim Prado P.
Published: January 2013

CONTEXT: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition which develops when the reflux of stomach contents causes troublesome symptoms and/or complications. Its pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment have frequently been analyzed but it is interesting to review some aspects of the GERD refractory patients to the proton pump inhibitors treatment. The treatment encompasses behavioral measures and pharmacological therapy. The majority of the patients respond well to proton pump inhibitors treatment but 20%-42% of them may not do so well. Patients who are unresponsible to 4-8 weeks' treatment with proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole, lansoprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole-Mg) might have so-called refractory GERD. RESULTS: In some cases the patients are not real refractory because either they do not have GERD or the disease was not correctly treated, but the term refractory is still employed. Although debatable, the Brazilian GERD Consensus based upon evidences recommends as first step in the diagnosis, the upper digestive endoscopy to exclude the diagnosis of peptic ulcer and cancer and in some cases identify the presence of esophageal mucosa erosions. CONCLUSIONS: The main causes of the so-called refractory GERD are: (1) functional heartburn; (2) low levels of adherence to proton pump inhibitors treatment; (3) inadequate proton pump inhibitors dosage; (4) wrong diagnosis; (5) co-morbidities and pill-induced esophagitis; (6) genotypic differences; (7) nonacid gastroesophageal reflux; (8) autoimmune skin diseases; (9) eosinophilic esophagitis.
Distribuição espacial de cobre, zinco e níquel em um Latossolo após quinze anos da aplicação de lodo de esgoto
Authors: Maciel Carlos Antonio Centurion , Camargo Otávio Antonio de , Vieira Sidney Rosa , Chiba Marcio Koiti
Published: January 2013

A utilização agrícola do lodo de esgoto como fonte de nutrientes para as plantas é uma das alternativas mais viáveis de reciclar este material sem comprometer a qualidade do meio ambiente. Este trabalho foi realizado visando quantificar e mapear os teores de cobre, zinco e níquel em um solo após quinze anos da aplicação de lodo de esgoto (LE). De 1983 a 1987, a área experimental foi utilizada em um ensaio com doses de 0, 20, 40, 60 e 80 Mg ha-1 de lodo de esgoto e de nitrogênio (0, 50, 100 e 150 kg ha-1) em cultivo de milho. Com o término deste experimento, o solo permaneceu sob pousio com gramínea (Brachiaria decumbens Stapf) e, em 2002, foram coletadas novas amostras de terra, nas camadas de 0-20 cm e de 20-40 cm de profundidade e da parte aérea das plantas de maneira georreferenciada. As amostragens foram realizadas a cada 3 m sobre três transeções distantes 15 m uma da outra e locadas em ângulo de 45º em relação aos limites da área experimental, totalizando 50 pontos amostrais. Os dados foram analisados inicialmente em função dos momentos estatísticos descritivos e a variabilidade espacial dos atributos do solo e da planta foi determinada por análise geoestatística utilizando semivariogramas que permitiram também a obtenção de mapas interpolados por krigagem desses parâmetros. Os atributos do solo pH, MOS e CTC não estão correlacionados com os teores de Cu, Zn e Ni no solo e nas plantas. Tanto o DTPA quanto o Mehlich-3 foram eficientes na predição da disponibilidade de Zn no solo e na planta. Após 15 anos da aplicação de biossólido, os teores de Cu, Zn e Ni na camada de 0 - 20 cm de profundidade e determinados tanto com DTPA quanto Mehlich-3, estavam com estrutura de dependência espacial classificada como forte e/ou moderada. O grau de dependência espacial dos teores de Cu, Zn e Ni, nas plantas, foi diferente do verificado para esses elementos no solo.
Resposta de culturas e disponibilidade de enxofre em solos com diferentes teores de argila e matéria orgânica submetidos à adubação sulfatada
Authors: Tiecher Tales , Santos Danilo Rheinheimer dos , Rasche Jimmy Walter Alvarez , Brunetto Gustavo , Mallmann Fábio Joel Kochem , Piccin Rogério
Published: January 2013

Em solos com baixos teores de argila e matéria orgânica pode haver menor disponibilidade de enxofre (S) e, por esse motivo, espera-se que a adubação sulfatada incremente a produção das culturas. O trabalho objetivou avaliar a resposta de culturas e a disponibilidade de S em solos com diferentes teores de argila e matéria orgânica, submetidos à adubação sulfatada. O experimento foi realizado em vasos em casa de vegetação no período de agosto de 2004 até janeiro de 2008. Foram realizados nove cultivos sucessivos de plantas em quatro tipos de solos, submetidos à aplicação de quatro doses de S. Avaliou-se a produção de matéria seca e o acúmulo de S na parte aérea das plantas e o teor do elemento disponível no solo das camadas 0 - 10 e 10 - 20 cm. As plantas do primeiro cultivo de milho e aveia preta aumentaram a produção de matéria seca com a aplicação de S, mas o aumento da produção do milho não teve relação com os teores de S disponível da camada 0 - 10 cm nos solos arenosos. Mesmo com teores de S disponível nessa camada abaixo dos níveis de suficiência, não houve resposta do girassol, feijão, soja e mamona à adubação sulfatada. A quantidade de S acumulada na parte aérea das plantas e o teor de S disponível no solo aumentaram com a aplicação do nutriente. Grande parte do S migrou para a camada de 10 - 20 cm, especialmente nos solos arenosos e, assim, o diagnóstico da sua disponibilidade deve ser realizado nas camadas subsuperficiais do solo.
Trends in South American weapons purchases at the beginning of the new millennium
Authors: Villa Rafael Duarte , Viggiano Juliana
Published: January 2013

In recent years, with some frequency it is heard that Latin America, especially South America, is witnessing the rise of an arms race. Frequent reports in the press and strong statements made by politicians in the region have fueled this fear. At the same time, scholars have also reached to this conclusion, as pointed out by Malamud and Garcia: "The famous arms race in Latin America, led by Venezuela, is no longer just talk."
Países em desenvolvimento em uma ordem internacional em transformação: coalizões e soluções de disputas na OMC
Authors: Ramanzini Junior Haroldo , Viana Manuela Trindade
Published: January 2013

Este artigo analisa a atuação dos países em desenvolvimento (PEDs) no âmbito da Organização Mundial do Comércio (OMC), bem como o impacto dessa atuação na dinâmica da organização. A análise é articulada a partir de dois aspectos: as coalizões envolvendo PEDs e a participação desses países no Órgão de Solução de Controvérsias (OSC). Os autores concluem que o recurso a mecanismos institucionais constitui a principal estratégia dos PEDs para aumentar sua capacidade relativamente aos países desenvolvidos (PDs). Nesse sentido, os PEDs têm atuado dentro da estrutura de comércio existente, buscando adaptá-la a seus interesses. Esses países lograram criar e manter coalizões na OMC, apesar de sua diversidade econômica e política. Quanto à sua participação no OSC, ainda que o número de painéis abertos por PEDs tenha aumentado, essas disputas ainda concentram-se em um número pequeno de PEDs - principalmente Brasil e Índia.
The coexistence of peace and conflict in South America: toward a new conceptualization of types of peace
Authors: Battaglino Jorge Mario
Published: January 2013

South America's predominant democratic regimes and its increasing interdependence on regional trade have not precluded the emergence of militarized crises between Colombia and Venezuela or the revival of boundary claims between Chile and Peru. This way, how can we characterize a zone that, in spite of its flourishing democracy and dense economic ties, remain involved in territorial disputes for whose resolution the use of force has not yet been discarded? This article contends that existing classifications of zones of peace are not adequate to explain this unusual coexistence. Thus, its main purpose is to develop a new analytical category of regional peace for assessing this phenomenon: the hybrid peace. It aims to research the evolution of security systems in South America during the previous century and build a new, threefold classification of peace zones: negative peace zones, hybrid peace zones, and positive peace zones.
O provedor de justiça europeu e a democratização das instituições comunitárias
Authors: Santin Janaína Rigo
Published: January 2013

O artigo visa a analisar as questões da cidadania europeia e do deficit democrático das instituições supranacionais. Nesse sentido, aborda a instituição do Provedor de Justiça Europeu. Trata-se de um indivíduo nomeado pelo Parlamento Europeu com a função de, quer por iniciativa própria quer baseado em queixas que lhe tenham sido apresentadas por cidadãos e residentes europeus, investigar e proceder a inquéritos sobre irregularidades na atuação dos órgãos comunitários, bem como emitir recomendações com o fim de corrigir os casos de má administração e violação aos direitos humanos por ele detectados. O objeto de atuação do Provedor de Justiça Europeu é o exercício da atividade política e a prestação dos serviços públicos, em âmbito comunitário. Trata-se um canal de acesso da cidadania aos órgãos de poder político, controlando a má atuação das instituições ou organismos comunitários e a violação de direitos, com amplos poderes de supervisão no intuito maior que é a persecução do direito fundamental a uma boa administração.
O Barão do Rio Branco no Itamaraty (1902-1912)
Authors: Bueno Clodoaldo
Published: January 2013

Os cem anos do fim da gestão do Barão do Rio Branco no Ministério das Relações Exteriores do Brasil coincidem com um momento politicamente propício para se revisitar o legado do patrono da diplomacia brasileira, em especial o referente aos Estados Unidos e ao Prata, os dois principais eixos das relações externas do País. Examinam-se o teor das relações com a potência hegemônica do hemisfério e o caráter oscilante daquelas com a Argentina. A partir de fontes primárias e bibliográficas, o autor procura demonstrar que Rio Branco, além do fechamento dos limites do território nacional, firmou tendências e procedimentos que se incorporaram à tradição da diplomacia brasileira, analisando, para isso, a função do alinhamento Rio de Janeiro-Washington no conjunto da política externa do chanceler e o padrão das relações com o governo argentino, fatores que influenciaram seus movimentos no entorno geográfico. A política de prestígio desenvolvida por Rio Branco decorreu da aspiração em diferenciar seu país do conjunto de nações do segmento sul do hemisfério, identificadas com convulsões políticas e insolvência financeira.
Comportamento fenológico e produtivo de cultivares de pessegueiro no município da Lapa, Paraná
Authors: Alves Giselda , Silva Joseane da , De Mio Louise Larissa May , Biasi Luis Antonio
Published: January 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a fenologia e a produção de cultivares de pessegueiro, na Lapa, Estado do Paraná. Foram avaliadas 11 cultivares, nas safras 2008/2009, 2009/2010 e 2010/2011: Aurora-1, Chimarrita, Chiripá, Coral, Eldorado, BRS Granada, BRS Leonense, Maciel, Marli, Premier e BRS Vanguarda. Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, com 11 tratamentos (cultivares) e três repetições. Temperaturas mais baixas e chuvas no período de floração atrasaram a colheita em quase um mês, nas cultivares de ciclos mais precoces. A frutificação efetiva foi, em média, maior e mais constante na cultivar Chimarrita (81%). Houve redução na eficiência produtiva de todas as cultivares, a cada safra; maior nas cultivares BRS Leonense e Chiripá (acima de 90%) e menor na Chimarrita (61%). A cultivar Premier apresentou o ciclo mais curto (105 dias), e a Maciel o mais longo (145 dias). As cultivares Chimarrita, BRS Vanguarda, Eldorado, Maciel e Marli são as mais produtivas. A cultivar Chiripá não é adaptada à região.
Identification of zygotic and nucellar seedlings in polyembryonic mango cultivars
Authors: Ochoa Elisa del Carmen Martínez , Andrade-Rodríguez María , Rodríguez Mario Rocandio , Monter Angel Villegas
Published: January 2013

The objective of this work was to evaluate the occurrence of polyembryony in the mango cultivars Manila and Ataulfo, and to determine whether seedlings cultured in vitro are zygotic or nucelar. Percentage of polyembryony was calculated and the number of embryos in 100 seeds of each cultivar was recorded. 'Manila' exhibited 97% polyembryony with 3.4 embryos per seed, while 'Ataulfo' had 95% polyembryony with 3.2 embryos per seed. Later, 20 seeds of each cultivar were established in vitro, and it was analyzed those in which all embryos germinated (12 seeds from 'Manila' and 7 from 'Ataulfo'). DNA was extracted from seedling leaf tissue, and its origin was identified with 14 RAPD primers. The polymorphic markers recognized the seedlings of sexual origin in seven of nine 'Manila' polyembryonic seeds, and in four of seven 'Ataulfo' ones. Also, in polyembryonic seeds not all zygotic seedlings were produced by small embryos located at the micropyle.
Desempenho de cordeiros alimentados com inclusão de torta de macaúba na dieta
Authors: Azevedo Rafael Alves de , Rufino Luana Marta de Almeida , Santos Antonio Carlos Ramos dos , Silva Lígia Pires da , Bonfá Hugo Colombarolli , Duarte Eduardo Robson , Geraseev Luciana Castro
Published: January 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o consumo de nutrientes e o desempenho produtivo e econômico de ovinos confinados da raça Santa Inês, alimentados com dietas com diferentes taxas de inclusão de torta de macaúba. Os animais (24) foram distribuídos em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, nos tratamentos com 0, 100, 200 e 300 g kg-1 de torta de macaúba na matéria seca da dieta, em seis repetições, durante 60 dias de confinamento. A adição de torta de macaúba a taxas crescentes à dieta aumentou linearmente o consumo de proteína bruta, extrato etéreo, fibra em detergente neutro e a conversão alimentar. Não houve diferença no consumo de matéria seca, ganho médio diário e ganho de peso vivo total com a adição da torta. O tratamento com inclusão de 100 g kg-1 apresentou a melhor relação custo:benefício na avaliação das receitas bruta e líquida obtidas com a venda dos animais vivos e abatidos. A adição da torta de macaúba em até 300 g kg-1 da dieta não altera o desempenho produtivo dos animais, entretanto, a inclusão de 100 g kg-1 proporciona melhor retorno econômico.
Religião e Conflitos Políticos na Venezuela: católicos e evangélicos frente ao governo de Hugo Chávez
Authors: Smilde David
Published: January 2013

Este artigo se debruça sobre a complexa relação do governo Chávez com a Igreja católica e com o movimento evangélico. O governo Chávez tem repetidamente se confrontado com a hierarquia da Igreja católica na medida em que tem buscado desestabilizar as instituições existentes, incluindo a Igreja. Em contraste, ele atraído o movimento evangélico no processo de estabelecer alianças com novos atores sociais e políticos. No entanto as reações de padres católicos e pastores evangélicos têm variado. Padres, que não têm tido conexão com a hierarquia e trabalham com os membros dos setores populares, tendem a apoiar o governo Chávez. De forma similar, os pastores neopentecostais, que aderem a "Teologia do Domínio," e que não têm uma conexão com o principal grupo evangélico que lidera movimento evangélico, apoiam Chávez.
Uma "morte suave": valores religiosos e laicos nos discursos sobre ortotanásia
Authors: Menezes Rachel Aisengart , Gomes Edlaine de Campos
Published: January 2013

Este artigo aborda a controvérsia em torno da gestão do término da vida, a partir da análise da ação civil pública provocada pelo Ministério Público Federal, com o intuito de revogar a Resolução 1805/2006 do Conselho Federal de Medicina sobre a ortotanásia. Consideram-se aqui os argumentos médico e jurídico, em suas articulações com valores religiosos. A reflexão acerca dos discursos no processo judicial, em defesa de cada posicionamento (favorável e contrário à autorização legal da ortotanásia) possibilita uma compreensão das tramas e dos atores sociais envolvidos nos debates contemporâneos sobre os limites da vida, sobre as possibilidades de intervenção médica e acerca dos direitos de autonomia individual, diante da faculdade de tomada de decisões no último período de vida, no caso de pessoa com doença crônico-degenerativa, em fase terminal.
Afinal, a desconcentração produtiva é ou não relevante? A cidade de São Paulo no olho do furacão
Authors: Torres Haroldo da Gama
Published: January 2013

O artigo busca chamar a atenção para os impactos sociais da desconcentração econômica do município de São Paulo em direção ao interior do estado. Apesar de a literatura especializada considerar tais impactos relativamente benéficos, aspectos relacionados à guerra fiscal intermunicipal vêm minando a capacidade da cidade em continuar crescendo e oferecendo empregos tanto no setor industrial quanto no setor de serviços, na mesma proporção da região metropolitana e do restante do estado.