bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shank1 mRNA: Dendritic Transport by Kinesin and Translational Control by the 5′Untranslated Region
Authors: Falley Katrin , Schütt Janin , Iglauer Peter , Menke Katharina , Maas Christoph , Kneussel Matthias , Kindler Stefan , Wouters Fred S. , Richter Dietmar , Kreienkamp Hans‐Jürgen
Published: March 2009

Dendritic mRNA transport coupled with local regulation of translation enables neurons to selectively alter the protein composition of individual postsynaptic sites. We have analyzed dendritic localization of shank1 mRNAs; shank proteins (shank1–3) are scaffolding molecules of the postsynaptic density (PSD) of excitatory synapses, which are crucial for PSD assembly and the formation of dendritic spines. Live cell imaging demonstrates saltatory movements of shank1 mRNA containing granules along microtubules in both anterograde and retrograde directions. A population of brain messenger ribonucleoprotein particles (mRNPs) containing shank1 mRNAs associates with the cargo‐binding domain of the motor protein KIF5C. Through expression of dominant negative proteins, we show that dendritic targeting of shank1 mRNA granules involves KIF5C and the KIF5‐associated RNA‐binding protein staufen1. While transport of shank1 mRNAs follows principles previously outlined for other dendritic transcripts, shank1 mRNAs are distinguished by their translational regulation. Translation is strongly inhibited by a GC‐rich 5′untranslated region; in addition, internal ribosomal entry sites previously detected in other dendritic transcripts are absent in the shank1 mRNA. A concept emerges from our data in which dendritic transport of different mRNAs occurs collectively via a staufen1‐ and KIF5‐dependent pathway, whereas their local translation is controlled individually by unique cis‐acting elements.
GEOMETRICAL, THERMAL AND MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF OLIVE FRUITS
Authors: AL‐WIDYAN MOHAMAD I. , RABABAH TAHA M. , MAYYAS AHMAD , AL‐SHBOOL MOH'D , YANG W.
Published: March 2009

In Mediterranean countries, olive trees play a significant economical role. Knowledge of olive fruits properties is essential for the efficient handling of the product and optimizing oil yield. The lack of such knowledge at the local level triggered this study in an attempt to report the fruit's chemical composition and some major engineering properties. Established procedures were followed in conducting the measurements and calculations on fruit samples. The study examined four major varieties of olive fruits, including Spanish, Black Spanish, improved Nabali and Nabali Baladi for their chemical composition and other properties, including geometrical, thermal and frictional properties. Thermal properties, including thermal conductivity, heat capacity and thermal diffusivity, ranged from 0.41 to 0.47 W/(m·K), 2.35 to 2.39 kJ/(kg·K) and 2.88 × 10−7to 2.779 × 10−7 m2/s, respectively. The geometrical properties of the Spanish and Black Spanish were quite similar except for roundness and sphericity. Similar results were found for improved Nabali and Nabali Baladi. The properties of weight, density and packing coefficient ranged from 2.22 to 8.60 g, 890 to 1,230 kg/m3 and 0.43 to 0.52, respectively. The fruit's static friction coefficient over mild steel, aluminum and softwood surfaces ranged from 0.20 to 0.30, 0.21 to 0.29 and 0.22 to 0.33, respectively.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In Jordan and other Mediterranean countries, olive fruits are produced in large quantities every season. They are very widely used as pickled fruits or are processed in mills to extract their oil. Despite the fact that fruit properties are a necessary prerequisite for the efficient handling and processing of fruits, literature search indicated the lack of a comprehensive study of scientific merit that reports on the engineering properties of olive fruits. In addition, it is established that knowledge of the fruit properties leads to optimized handling and processing and results in knowledge‐based development of all processes and equipment that deal with the fruits. The practical merit of this study stems from the fact that it reports on the key properties of a major product (olive fruits) that has social, cultural and economical significance throughout a whole region and is expanding throughout the globe.
Phylogeny of nucleus medianus of the posterior tubercle in rayfinned fishes
Authors: NORTHCUTT R. Glenn
Published: March 2009

The brains of ray‐finned fishes form a morphocline of increasing complexity, from cladistians through teleosts. This is particularly apparent in the posterior tubercle of the diencephalon. In cladistians, the posterior tubercle consists of a periventricular nucleus and a migrated nucleus medianus that is fused across the midline. In more advanced ray‐finned fishes, such as gars and bowfins, the posterior tubercle comprises numerous additional migrated nuclei, termed the preglomerular complex, in addition to a more well developed nucleus medianus. In teleosts, the most derived ray‐finned fishes, there is an even more elaborate preglomerular complex, but there is no recognizable nucleus medianus. In an attempt to explain the variation in the posterior tubercle of the diencephalon in ray‐finned fishes, the immunohistochemistry and connections of nucleus medianus were examined in cladistians, gars and bowfins. In each of these taxa, nucleus medianus exhibits large numbers of calretinin‐positive neurons and has ascending projections that terminate in several divisions of the pallium. Although teleosts, such as goldfish, also exhibit numerous cell groups in the posterior tubercle that are rich in calretinin, none of these cell groups has connections that are comparable to those of nucleus medianus in non‐teleost ray‐finned fishes. It is possible, therefore, that nucleus medianus was lost with the origin of teleosts.
Cheyne–Stokes respiration is not related to quality of life or sleepiness in heart failure
Authors: Midgren Bengt , Mared Lena , Franklin Karl Anders , Berg Søren , Erhardt Leif , Cline Charles
Published: March 2009

Background and aims:  The effects of central sleep apnea in Cheyne‐Stokes respiration on sleep‐related symptoms and quality of life are not very well established. We aimed to investigate whether Cheyne‐Stokes respiration is related to health‐related quality of life. We also studied the impact on daytime sleepiness and nocturnal dyspnea.

Methods:  Included were 203 consecutive patients, stabilized following in‐hospital treatment for decompensated congestive heart failure. They underwent overnight cardiorespiratory sleep apnea recordings in hospital and answered a set of questions on symptoms and health‐related quality of life questionnaires in the form of the Nottingham Health Profile and the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire. After excluding seven patients with predominantly obstructive apneas and 14 with insufficient recordings, 182 patients were included in the final analysis.

Results:  One third of the patients had an apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) of >30. Falling asleep in front of the television was the only symptom related to (AHI). Nocturnal dyspnea, daytime sleepiness, generic quality of life or disease‐specific quality of life were not related to AHI.

Conclusions:  Cheyne–Stokes respiration was not associated with health‐related quality of life, daytime sleepiness or nocturnal dyspnea among patients stabilized following treatment for congestive heart failure.

Please cite this paper as: Midgren B, Mared L, Franklin KA, Berg S, Erhardt L and Cline C. Cheyne–Stokes respiration is not related to quality of life or sleepiness in heart failure. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2009; DOI:10.1111/j.1752‐699X.2009.00139.x.
Stimulation-Induced Formation of the Reserve Pool of Vesicles in Drosophila Motor Boutons
Authors: Akbergenova Yulia , Bykhovskaia Maria
Published: March 2009

We combined electron microscopy (EM), synaptic vesicle staining by fluorescent marker FM1-43, photoconversion of the dye into an electron dense product, and electrical recordings of synaptic responses to study the distribution of reserve and recycling vesicles and its dependence on stimulation in Drosophila motor boutons. We showed that, at rest, vesicles are distributed over the periphery of the bouton, with the recycling and reserve pools being intermixed and the central core of the bouton being devoid of vesicles. Continuous high-frequency stimulation followed by a resting period mobilized the reserve vesicles into the recycling pool and, most notably, produced an increase in vesicle abundance. Recordings of synaptic activity from the temperature-sensitive endocytosis mutant shibire during continuous stimulation until complete depression provided an independent estimate of the increase in vesicle abundance on intense stimulation. EM analysis demonstrated that continuous stimulation produced an increase in the vesicle density, whereas during a subsequent resting period, vesicles filled empty areas of the bouton, spreading toward its central core. Although the observed structural potentiation did not alter basal transmitter release, it produced an increased synaptic enhancement during high-frequency stimulation. The latter effect was not observed when the boutons were potentiated using high-frequency stimulation without a subsequent resting period. We concluded therefore that the newly formed vesicles replenish the reserve pool during a resting period following intense stimulation.
Dose-Dependent Increases in Circulating TGF-α and Other EGFR Ligands Act As Pharmacodynamic Markers for Optimal Biological Dosing of Cetuximab and Are Tumor Independent
Authors: Mutsaers Anthony J. , Francia Giulio , Man Shan , Lee Christina R. , Ebos John M.L. , Wu Yan , Witte Larry , Berry Scott , Moore Malcolm , Kerbel Robert S.
Published: March 2009

Purpose: The objective of this study was to characterize treatment-induced circulating ligand changes during therapy with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors and evaluate their potential as surrogate indicators of the optimal biological dose.

Experimental Design: Conditioned medium from human tumor cell lines, ascites fluid from tumor xenografts, and plasma samples from normal mice, as well as colorectal cancer patients, were assessed for ligand elevations using ELISA, following treatment with cetuximab (Erbitux), an anti–mouse EGFR neutralizing antibody, or a small-molecule EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

Results: A rapid elevation in human transforming growth factor α (TGF-α) was observed in all cell lines after treatment with cetuximab, but not with small-molecule inhibitors. The elevation showed a dose-response effect and plateau that corresponded to the maximal decrease in A431 proliferation in vitro and HT29 tumor growth in vivo. The TGF-α increase was exacerbated by ongoing ligand production and cleavage from the plasma membrane but did not involve transcriptional up-regulation of TGF-α or the matrix metalloproteinase tumor necrosis factor-α–converting enzyme/ADAM17. Elevations in plasma TGF-α, amphiregulin, and epiregulin were also detected in normal mice treated with an anti–mouse EGFR monoclonal antibody, illustrating a host tissue–dependent component of this effect in vivo. Finally, circulating TGF-α increased in the plasma of six patients with EGFR-negative colorectal tumors during cetuximab treatment.

Conclusions: Treatment-induced increases in circulating ligands, particularly TGF-α, should be serially assessed in clinical trials of anti-EGFR therapeutic antibodies as potential biomarkers to aid in determination of the optimal biological dose.
Screening for Pancreatic Cancer in High-Risk Individuals: A Call for Endoscopic Ultrasound
Authors: Larghi Alberto , Verna Elizabeth C. , Lecca Piera Giuseppina , Costamagna Guido
Published: March 2009

Pancreatic cancer has a dismal prognosis, and early detection through screening is likely to be our best hope to improve survival. The relatively low incidence of pancreatic cancer and the insensitive screening techniques available currently render this approach prohibitively expensive and inefficient in the general population. Screening has begun, however, in the subset of patients at the highest risk of disease, such as those with inherited risk due to familial multiorgan cancer syndromes or in familial groupings of pancreatic cancer with yet unidentified genetic abnormalities, termed familial pancreatic cancer. Screening is currently done at several large centers in the world, each with a unique multidisciplinary approach and series of screening tests. Endoscopic ultrasound has emerged as the most promising imaging test given its high sensitivity and potential for tissue sampling. However, this potential to detect and cure early lesions should be carefully balanced with the risk of overtreatment, especially in view of the morbidity and mortality of pancreatic surgery. Additional experience to help determine the best screening strategy is greatly needed. Screening should therefore be done at experienced centers with multidisciplinary teams of specialists and in the context of research protocols.
Clinical and Biological Efficacy of Recombinant Human Interleukin-21 in Patients with Stage IV Malignant Melanoma without Prior Treatment: A Phase IIa Trial
Authors: Davis Ian D. , Brady Ben , Kefford Richard F. , Millward Michael , Cebon Jonathan , Skrumsager Birte K. , Mouritzen Ulrik , Hansen Lasse Tengbjerg , Skak Kresten , Lundsgaard Dorthe , Frederiksen Klaus Stensgaard , Kristjansen Paul E.G. , McArthur Grant
Published: March 2009

Purpose: Human interleukin-21 (IL-21) is a class I cytokine that mediates activation of CD8+ T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and other cell types. We report final clinical and biological results of a phase II study of recombinant human IL-21 (rIL-21) in patients with metastatic melanoma.

Experimental Design: Open-label, single-arm, two-stage trial. Eligibility criteria: unresectable metastatic melanoma, measurable disease by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors, no prior systemic therapy (adjuvant IFN permitted), adequate major organ function, good performance status, no significant autoimmune disease, and life expectancy at least 4 months. Primary objective: antitumor efficacy (response rate). Secondary objectives: safety, blood biomarkers, and generation of anti-rIL-21 antibodies. rIL-21 (30 μg/kg/dose) was administered by intravenous bolus injection in 8-week cycles (5 dosing days followed by 9 days of rest for 6 weeks and then 2 weeks off treatment).

Results: Stage I of the study comprised 14 patients. One confirmed complete response (CR) was observed, and as per protocol, 10 more patients were accrued to stage II (total n = 24: 10 female and 14 male). Best tumor response included one confirmed CR and one confirmed partial response, both with lung metastases. Treatment was overall well tolerated. Biomarker analyses showed increases in serum soluble CD25, frequencies of CD25+ NK and CD8+ T cells, and mRNA for IFN-γ, perforin, and granzyme B in CD8+ T and NK cells.

Conclusions: rIL-21 administered at 30 μg/kg/d in 5-day cycles every second week is biologically active and well tolerated in patients with metastatic melanoma. Confirmed responses, including one CR, were observed.
Efficacy of interleukin-13 receptor–targeted liposomal doxorubicin in the intracranial brain tumor model
Authors: Madhankumar Achuthamangalam B. , Slagle-Webb Becky , Wang Xinsheng , Yang Qing X. , Antonetti David A. , Miller Patti A. , Sheehan Jonas M. , Connor James R.
Published: March 2009

Human glioblastoma tumors selectively express receptors for interleukin 13 (IL-13). In a previous study, we showed that liposomes, when conjugated with IL-13, will deliver chemotherapeutics to a subcutaneous glioma tumor model in mice much more effectively than conventional unconjugated liposomes. Based on this observation, we developed an intracranial brain tumor model in nude mice using human U87 glioma cells. Mice receiving weekly i.p. injections of 15 mg/kg of doxorubicin encapsulated in IL-13–conjugated liposomes had a 5-fold reduction in the intracranial tumor volume over 6 weeks and four of seven animals survived >200 days after tumor implantation. In contrast, the animals receiving unconjugated liposomes with the same doxorubicin concentration did not survive beyond 35 days and there was no evidence of tumor size reduction. The presence of liposomes with doxorubicin in the tumor was shown by taking advantage of the selective expression of IL-13 receptors on the tumor cells and the endogenous fluorescence of doxorubicin. There was no increase in the indices of toxicity in animals receiving the doxorubicin-containing liposomes. Finally, a model of the blood-brain barrier was used to show that the nanovesicles do not harm the endothelial cells yet maintain their toxicity to astrocytoma cells. This approach is necessary to show the efficacy of this targeting platform for tumors in which the blood-brain barrier is not compromised and as a potential use of the nanovesicle system as a surveillance mechanism to prevent recurrence. These data show that IL-13 targeted nanovesicles are a viable option for the treatment of brain tumors. [Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(3):648–54]
In vivo molecular mediators of cancer growth suppression and apoptosis by selenium in mammary and prostate models: lack of involvement of gadd genes
Authors: Jiang Weiqin , Jiang Cheng , Pei Hongying , Wang Lei , Zhang Jinhui , Hu Hongbo , Lü Junxuan
Published: March 2009

We used acute selenium (Se) treatments (i.e., daily single oral gavage of 2 mg Se per kilogram of body weight for 3 days) of female Sprague-Dawley rats bearing 1-methyl-1-nitrosourea–induced mammary carcinomas to increase the probability of detecting in vivo apoptosis and the associated gene/protein changes in the cancerous epithelial cells. The results show that whereas control carcinomas doubled in volume in 3 days, Se-methylselenocysteine and selenite treatments regressed approximately half of the carcinomas, accompanied by a 3- to 4-fold increase of morphologically observable apoptosis and ∼40% inhibition of 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine index of the cancerous epithelial cells. The mRNA levels of growth arrest-DNA damage inducible 34 (gadd34), gadd45, and gadd153 genes were, contrary to expectation, not higher in the Se-treated carcinomas than in the gavage or diet restriction control groups. The gadd34 and gadd153 proteins were localized in the nonepithelial cells and not induced in the cancer epithelial cells of the Se-treated carcinomas. On the other hand, both Se forms decreased the expression of cyclin D1 and increased levels of P27Kip1 and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase activation in a majority of the mammary carcinomas. Furthermore, the lack of induction of gadd genes in vivo by methylseleninic acid was confirmed in a human prostate xenograft model in athymic nude mice. In summary, these experiments showed the induction of cancer epithelial cell apoptosis and inhibition of cell proliferation by Se in vivo through the potential involvement of cyclin D1, P27Kip1, and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase pathways. They cast doubt on the three gadd genes as mediators of Se action in vivo. [Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(3):682–91]
Extracellular Matrix-Induced Gene Expression in Human Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Garamszegi Nandor , Garamszegi Susanna P. , Shehadeh Lina A. , Scully Sean P.
Published: March 2009

Extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules modify gene expression through attachment-dependent (focal adhesion-related) integrin receptor signaling. It was previously unknown whether the same molecules acting as soluble peptides could generate signal cascades without the associated mechanical anchoring, a condition that may be encountered during matrix remodeling and degradation and relevant to invasion and metastatic processes. In the current study, the role of ECM ligand-regulated gene expression through this attachment-independent process was examined. It was observed that fibronectin, laminin, and collagen type I and II induce Smad2 activation in MCF-10A and MCF-7 cells. This activation is not caused by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β ligand contamination or autocrine TGF involvement and is 3- to 5-fold less robust than the TGF-β1 ligand. The resulting nuclear translocation of Smad4 in response to ECM ligand indicates downstream transcriptional responses occurring. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments determined that collagen type II and laminin act through interaction with integrin α2β1 receptor complex. The ECM ligand-induced Smad activation (termed signaling crosstalk) resulted in cell type and ligand-specific transcriptional changes, which are distinct from the TGF-β ligand-induced responses. These findings show that cell-matrix communication is more complex than previously thought. Soluble ECM peptides drive transcriptional regulation through corresponding adhesion and non-attachment-related processes. The resultant gene expressional patterns correlate with pathway activity and not by the extent of Smad activation. These results extend the complexity and the existing paradigms of ECM-cell communication to ECM ligand regulation without the necessity of mechanical coupling. (Mol Cancer Res 2009;7(3):319–29)
Role of Hemoglobin in Improving Biodegradation of Aromatic Contaminants under Hypoxic Conditions
Authors: Stark Benjamin C. , Urgun-Demirtas Meltem , Pagilla Krishna R.
Published: March 2009

Genetic engineering of bacteria using the Vitreoscilla (bacterial) hemoglobin gene has been used to enhance bioremediation of several compounds which are models for, or are themselves, toxic chemicals which may contaminate soil and water. Initial experiments, done mostly in shake flasks, with Escherichia coli, Burkholderia sp. DNT and Pseudomonas aeruginosa demonstrated that expression of Vitreoscilla hemoglobin in heterologous hosts can enhance biodegradation of several aromatic compounds as well as an organophosphorus compound. These studies concentrated for the most part on enhancement of endogenous catabolic capabilities of the hosts; the presence of vgb/VHb enhanced both growth and biodegradation. The initial studies were followed by experiments in systems which more closely approximated conditions that would exist in field applications. These included soil columns, continuous flow reactors and membrane bioreactors. The latter work also enabled calculation of the effects of the presence of vgb/VHb on kinetic parameters such as growth rate, substrate and oxygen utilization rate, and degradation rate of pollutants, etc. Although not always the case, for the most part, and particularly in bioreactors, the advantages due to vgb/VHb were greater under conditions of limited aeration or hypoxic conditions.
Novel Metrics for Evaluation of Ensemble Forecasts of Tropical Cyclone Structure
Authors: Veren Daniel , Evans Jenni L. , Jones Sarah , Chiaromonte Francesca
Published: March 2009

Predicting extratropical transition (ET) of a tropical cyclone poses a significant challenge to numerical forecast models because the storm evolution depends on both the timing of the phasing between the tropical cyclone and midlatitude weather systems and the structures of each system. Ensemble prediction systems offer the potential for assessing confidence in numerical guidance during ET cases. Thus, forecasts of storm structure changes during ET from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) ensemble prediction system (EPS) are explored using two novel validation approaches. The evolution of the (initially tropical) storm structure is characterized in the framework of the cyclone phase space (CPS) and the validation metrics are based on separation between the EPS forecasts and verifying analyses in the CPS. The first validation approach utilizes two metrics and most closely resembles traditional forecast validation techniques. The second approach involves clustering the ensemble member initializations and operational analyses during the life cycles of each tropical cyclone to provide a reference structure evolution against which to evaluate the EPS forecasts. Application of these metrics is demonstrated for two case studies of ET in the western North Pacific: Typhoons Tokage (2004) and Maemi (2003). Both validation approaches identify a decline in EPS structure forecast accuracy for all valid times coinciding with ET onset and beyond, as well as during a weakening tropical stage prior to ET for Tokage. While track forecast errors contribute to structure errors in the EPS forecasts, they are not an overwhelming factor. The two validation approaches highlight the inability of ensemble member forecasts to appropriately weaken the warm core prior to and during ET, and the effects this has on forecasts of ET timing. The analyses adopted in this study provide a basis for future assessments of ensemble forecast skill of cyclone structure during ET.
Intercomparison of Targeted Observation Guidance for Tropical Cyclones in the Northwestern Pacific
Authors: Wu Chun-Chieh , Chen Jan-Huey , Majumdar Sharanya J. , Peng Melinda S. , Reynolds Carolyn A. , Aberson Sim D. , Buizza Roberto , Yamaguchi Munehiko , Chen Shin-Gan , Nakazawa Tetsuo , Chou Kun-Hsuan
Published: March 2009

This study compares six different guidance products for targeted observations over the northwest Pacific Ocean for 84 cases of 2-day forecasts in 2006 and highlights the unique dynamical features affecting the tropical cyclone (TC) tracks in this basin. The six products include three types of guidance based on total-energy singular vectors (TESVs) from different global models, the ensemble transform Kalman filter (ETKF) based on a multimodel ensemble, the deep-layer mean (DLM) wind variance, and the adjoint-derived sensitivity steering vector (ADSSV). The similarities among the six products are evaluated using two objective statistical techniques to show the diversity of the sensitivity regions in large, synoptic-scale domains and in smaller domains local to the TC. It is shown that the three TESVs are relatively similar to one another in both the large and the small domains while the comparisons of the DLM wind variance with other methods show rather low similarities. The ETKF and the ADSSV usually show high similarity because their optimal sensitivity usually lies close to the TC. The ADSSV, relative to the ETKF, reveals more similar sensitivity patterns to those associated with TESVs. Three special cases are also selected to highlight the similarities and differences among the six guidance products and to interpret the dynamical systems affecting the TC motion in the northwestern Pacific. Among the three storms studied, Typhoon Chanchu was associated with the subtropical high, Typhoon Shanshan was associated with the midlatitude trough, and Typhoon Durian was associated with the subtropical jet. The adjoint methods are found to be more capable of capturing the signal of the dynamic system that may affect the TC movement or evolution than are the ensemble methods.
The Effects of Rehearsal on the Functional Neuroanatomy of Episodic Autobiographical and Semantic Remembering: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Svoboda Eva , Levine Brian
Published: March 2009

This study examined the effects of rehearsal on the neural substrates supporting episodic autobiographical and semantic memory. Stimuli were collected prospectively using audio recordings, thereby bringing under experimental control ecologically valid, naturalistic autobiographical stimuli. Participants documented both autobiographical and semantic stimuli over a period of 6–8 months, followed by a rehearsal manipulation during the 3 d preceding scanning. During functional magnetic resonance imaging scanning, participants were exposed to recordings that they were hearing for the first, second, or eighth time. Rehearsal increased the rated vividness with which information was remembered, particularly for autobiographical events. Neuroimaging findings revealed rehearsal-related suppression of activation in regions supporting episodic autobiographical and semantic memory. Episodic autobiographical and semantic memory produced distinctly different patterns of regional activation that held even after eight repetitions. Region of interest analyses further indicated a functional anatomical dissociation in response to rehearsal and memory conditions. These findings revealed that the hippocampus was specifically engaged by episodic autobiographical memory, whereas both memory conditions engaged the parahippocampal cortex. Our data suggest that, when retrieval cues are potent enough to engage a vivid episodic recollection, the episodic/semantic dissociation within medial temporal lobe structures endure even with multiple stimulus repetitions. These findings support the multiple trace theory, which predicts that the hippocampus is engaged in the retrieval of rich episodic recollection regardless of repeated reactivation such as that occurring with the passage of time.
Método de análise de conteúdo: ferramenta para a análise de dados qualitativos no campo da saúde
Authors: Campos Claudinei José Gomes
Published: March 2009

O método de análise de conteúdo constitui-se em um conjunto de técnicas utilizadas na análise de dados qualitativos. Percebe-se, porém, que existe por parte do pesquisador iniciante ou do não familiarizado com estas técnicas, dificuldades em relação ao entendimento e aplicação do método. Assim sendo, objetivou-se neste trabalho, apresentar de maneira clara, conceitos e aspectos importantes constantes do método de análise de conteúdo e discutir alguns de seus pontos centrais. O método de análise de conteúdo foi sistematizado na primeira metade do século XX e a princípio foi importante ferramenta na busca dos sentidos dos artigos e propagandas da imprensa escrita nos Estados Unidos, sendo hoje um método amplamente utilizado em pesquisas científicas no campo da saúde.
Erros de medicação em hospital universitário: tipo, causas, sugestões e providências
Authors: Silva Ana Elisa Bauer de Camargo , Cassiani Silvia Helena De Bortoli
Published: March 2009

Este estudo survey exploratório analisou os erros de medicação de um hospital universitário a partir de 40 entrevistas realizadas com profissionais do sistema de medicação. Os resultados mostraram que os tipos de erros mais freqüentes estão na prescrição de medicamentos (29,04%); as falhas individuais são consideradas as principais causa da ocorrência de erros (47,37%) e as principais falhas do sistema de medicação (26,98%); as alterações nas atitudes individuais são sugestões para evitar erros (28,26%); as orientações são as providências administrativas mais utilizadas (25%). Concluiu-se que não há consciência sistêmica entre os profissionais a respeito dos erros, focando a culpa no ser humano. É necessário que esta cultura seja alterada e transformada em melhorias para o sistema.
Prevalência da infecção pelo vírus linfotrópico humano de células T - HTLV-1/2 entre puérperas de Cuiabá, Estado de Mato Grosso, 2006
Authors: Ydy Ranuce Ribeiro Aziz , Ferreira Dalton , Souto Francisco José Dutra , Fontes Cor Jésus Fernandes
Published: March 2009

A prevalência da infecção pelo vírus linfotrópico humano de células T em puérperas do Estado de Mato Grosso, no Brasil, não é conhecida. Neste estudo transversal definiu-se a prevalência da infecção em puérperas atendidas em três maternidades públicas de Cuiabá (MT). De abril a setembro de 2006, 3.831 partos foram realizados e 2.965 puérperas foram submetidas aos testes sorológicos para o HTLV-1/2 (Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay - ELISA e Western Blot). A idade média das mulheres participantes foi de 23,9 anos. A prevalência da infecção pelo HTLV-1/2 foi de 0,2%, semelhante à observada na população geral de vários centros desenvolvidos do país. Esse achado de baixa prevalência sugere que ainda não é justificada a introdução de intervenção de saúde pública para a população de gestantes de nosso meio, visando à redução da transmissão vertical do HTLV-1/2.
Avaliação do sistema de vigilância entomológica da doença de Chagas com participação comunitária em Mambaí e Buritinópolis, Estado de Goiás
Authors: Silveira Antonio Carlos , Rezende Dilermando Fazito de , Nogales Ana Maria , Cortez-Escalante Juan José , Castro Cleudson , Macêdo Vanize
Published: March 2009

A vigilância entomológica da doença de Chagas em Mambaí e Buritinópolis, no Estado de Goiás, Brasil, tem sido mantida com participação da população, notificando a presença de vetores nas habitações. Passado longo tempo após instituídas as ações de controle e tendo-se já certificado a interrupção da transmissão vetorial, buscou-se avaliar o conhecimento e as práticas da população nessa situação. Os resultados apontam progressivo desinteresse pelo tema doença de Chagas, atribuível à redução da magnitude do problema representado pela enfermidade, a pouca participação das escolas na vigilância, à pequena importância dos vetores secundários e nativos e, em conseqüência, às limitadas intervenções dos serviços de controle em resposta às notificações. Propõe-se, que atividades de busca direta por amostragem sejam periodicamente realizadas e maior envolvimento das instituições de ensino.
Brazilian norms for the International Affective Picture System (IAPS): comparison of the affective ratings for new stimuli between Brazilian and North-American subjects
Authors: Lasaitis Cristina , Ribeiro Rafaela Larsen , Bueno Orlando Francisco Amodeo
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE: The study presents the Brazilian norms for 240 new stimuli from International Affective Picture System (IAPS), a database of affective images widely used in research, compared to the North-American normative ratings. METHODS: The participants were 448 Brazilian university students from several courses (269 women and 179 men) with mean age of 24.2 (SD = 7.8), that evaluated the IAPS pictures in the valence, arousal and dominance dimensions by the Self-Assessment Manikin (SAM) scales. Data were compared across the populations by Pearson linear correlation and Student's t-tests. RESULTS: Correlations were highly significant for all dimensions; however, Brazilians' averages for arousal were higher than North-Americans'. CONCLUSIONS: The results show stability in relation to the first part of the Brazilian standardization and they are also consistent with the North-American standards, despite minor differences relating to interpretation of the arousal dimension, demonstrating that IAPS is a reliable instrument for experimental studies in the Brazilian population.
Regulação do desenvolvimento de micorrizas arbusculares
Authors: Kiriachek Soraya Gabriela , Azevedo Lucas Carvalho Basilio de , Peres Lázaro Eustáquio Pereira , Lambais Marcio Rodrigues
Published: March 2009

As micorrizas arbusculares (MAs) são associações simbióticas mutualistas entre fungos do filo Glomeromycota e a maioria das plantas terrestres. A formação e o funcionamento das MAs depende de um complexo processo de troca de sinais, que resulta em mudanças no metabolismo dos simbiontes e na diferenciação de uma interface simbiótica no interior das células das raízes. Os mecanismos que regulam a formação das MAs são pouco conhecidos, mas sabe-se que a concentração de fosfato (P) na planta é um fator determinante para o desenvolvimento da simbiose. A disponibilidade de P na planta pode afetar o balanço de açúcares e de fitormônios (FHs), além da expressão de genes de defesa vegetal. Com o advento da genômica e proteômica, vários genes essenciais para o desenvolvimento das MAs já foram identificados e seus mecanismos de regulação estão sendo estudados. Até o presente, sabe-se que as plantas secretam substâncias que estimulam a germinação de esporos e o crescimento de fungos micorrízicos arbusculares (FMAs). Há evidências também de que os FMAs sintetizam moléculas sinalizadoras, que são reconhecidas pelas plantas hospedeiras. Pelo menos três genes são essenciais para o reconhecimento dessa molécula e a transdução do sinal molecular. Discutem-se os papéis desses genes e os possíveis mecanismos que regulam sua expressão, bem como os papéis dos FHs na regulação de MAs são discutidos.
Mobilidade de potássio em solos decorrente da adição de doses de cloreto de potássio
Authors: Neves Lisiane Silva das , Ernani Paulo Roberto , Simonete Márcia Aparecida
Published: March 2009

Em solos recentemente fertilizados, as plantas absorvem os nutrientes que estão principalmente nas adjacências dos grânulos, cuja composição química é pouco conhecida. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o gradiente de concentração de K e a concentração eletrolítica a partir da região fertilizada com KCl em cinco solos, que tinham quantidades variáveis de argila (95 a 569 g kg-1) e de matéria orgânica (13 a 54 g kg-1). Os tratamentos consistiram de doses de KCl equivalentes a 0, 50, 100 e 200 kg ha-1 de K2O. Para obter as quantidades a serem aplicadas, considerou-se que essas doses seriam adicionadas sobre a superfície do solo, em linhas distanciadas de 0,70 m, e atingiria uma faixa de 2,5 cm, ou seja, entrariam em contato com 357 m² ha-1 de solo. Cada unidade experimental foi formada pela união de dois tubos horizontais de PVC, cada um com 7,0 cm de diâmetro e 9,0 cm de comprimento, preenchida com solo. Os grânulos de KCl foram distribuídos uniformemente entre duas folhas circulares de papel-filtro (7,0 cm de diâmetro), que foram colocadas na superfície de junção dos dois tubos. O gradiente de concentração de K nos solos foi quantificado por meio da concentração do K trocável (Mehlich-1) em diferentes distâncias a partir do local de aplicação dos grânulos. A movimentação de K variou com o tipo de solo, aumentou com a dose de KCl e foi menor no solo que tinha mais areia e menos matéria orgânica. Após 7 dias, com a maior dose de KCl aplicada (200 mg kg-1 K2O), a movimentação de K foi maior no Cambissolo Húmico léptico CHat (8,4 cm) e menor no Latossolo Vermelho distrófico LVd (6,4 cm). A amplitude de concentração de K no centímetro mais próximo do adubo variou de 9.800 a 16.475 mg kg-1; na camada distante de 4,0 a 5,0 cm dos grânulos, o K variou de 244 a 2.254 mg kg-1. A condutividade elétrica não atingiu valores prejudiciais ao processo germinativo de espécies com média tolerância a sais, mesmo no centímetro mais próximo do fertilizante. O movimento do K nos solos aconteceu em poucos dias, porém a movimentação máxima em cada dose de KCl não teve correlação com nenhum atributo de solo.
Absorção foliar pelo capim-tanzânia da amônia volatilizada do 15N-ureia aplicado ao solo
Authors: Martha Júnior Geraldo Bueno , Trivelin Paulo Cesar Ocheuze , Corsi Moacyr
Published: March 2009

Avaliou-se o efeito da dose de N-ureia (40, 80 e 120 kg ha-1 de N) e da distância (0, 27 e 35 cm) entre dreno (folhas) e fonte (ureia aplicada ao solo) sobre a absorção foliar de amônia por pastagem de Panicum maximum cv. Tanzânia. Adotou-se um delineamento inteiramente casualizado no esquema de parcelas subdivididas, com quatro repetições. Não houve efeito da distância sobre a absorção foliar de amônia (p > 0,05), mas esta diminuiu exponencialmente (p < 0,05) com o incremento das doses de N-ureia ou da taxa de volatilização de amônia, variando de 2,5 a 16,4 % do N volatilizado.
Integração lavoura e pecuária e os atributos físicos de solo manejado sob sistema plantio direto
Authors: Spera Silvio Tulio , Santos Henrique Pereira dos , Fontaneli Renato Serena , Tomm Gilberto Omar
Published: March 2009

Atributos físicos de solo foram avaliados num Latossolo Vermelho distrófico típico, em Passo Fundo, RS, dez anos após o estabelecimento (1993 a 2003) de cinco sistemas de produção integrando culturas produtoras de grãos, pastagens de inverno e forrageiras perenes: I) trigo/soja, aveia-branca/soja e ervilhaca/milho; II) trigo/soja, aveia-branca/soja e forrageiras anuais - aveia-preta + ervilhaca/milho; III) forrageiras perenes da estação fria - festuca + trevo-branco + trevo-vermelho + cornichão; IV) forrageiras perenes da estação quente - pensacola + aveia-preta + azevém + trevo-branco + trevo-vermelho + cornichão; e V) alfafa para feno, acrescentada em 1994, como tratamento adicional, com repetições em áreas contíguas ao experimento. Metade das áreas sob os sistemas III, IV e V retornou ao sistema I a partir do verão de 1996. As culturas, tanto de inverno como de verão, foram estabelecidas sob plantio direto. Os tratamentos foram distribuídos em blocos ao acaso com quatro repetições. Amostras de solo também foram coletadas em fragmento de floresta subtropical ao lado do experimento. O aumento da densidade do solo e da microporosidade, e a redução da porosidade total e da macroporosidade, devido aos distintos sistemas de produção de grãos com pastagens, não atingiram níveis capazes de promover degradação do solo. Os sistemas com pastagens perenes apresentaram menor densidade do solo e maior porosidade total e macroporosidade na camada 0-2 cm, em relação aos sistemas de produção de grãos ou produção de grãos com pastagens anuais.
Perda de água, solo e fósforo com aplicação de dejeto líquido bovino em latossolo sob plantio direto e com chuva simulada
Authors: Mori Hélio Fumiaki , Favaretto Nerilde , Pauletti Volnei , Dieckow Jeferson , Santos Weslei Leandro dos
Published: March 2009

A região dos Campos Gerais do Paraná é importante produtora de leite em sistema confinado e, com isso, também geradora de dejeto líquido bovino. Os objetivos deste trabalho foram avaliar perdas de água, solo, P total, P solúvel e P particulado em chuva simulada, realizada imediatamente após a aplicação das doses de 0, 30, 60 e 90 m³ ha-1 de dejeto líquido bovino, em um Latossolo Vermelho-Amarelo manejado em plantio direto, e inferir os eventuais impactos na qualidade da água. A aplicação de dejeto aumentou a taxa de perda de água por escoamento superficial em mais de 10 vezes, em todos os intervalos de 15 min da chuva durante duas horas. O maior incremento na perda total de água ocorreu com as doses 0 e 30 m³ ha-1. A partir da dose de 60 m³ ha-1, houve tendência de estabilização da perda de água. A taxa de perda de solo nos primeiros 15 min de chuva também aumentou com a aplicação de dejeto, repetindo-se, embora não de forma significativa, até o final da chuva. O maior incremento na perda de solo também ocorreu com a aplicação das doses de 0 e 30 m³ ha-1, seguido por estabilização com as doses maiores. Parte do material sólido perdido veio do próprio dejeto. A aplicação de dejeto, mesmo na dose de 30 m³ ha-1, elevou a concentração de P total, solúvel e particulado no escoamento para valores acima dos níveis críticos relacionados com a eutrofização, especialmente nos primeiros 15 min de chuva. Por aumentar a taxa de escoamento de água e a concentração de P no escoamento, o dejeto também aumentou a perda absoluta das três formas de P, com tendência de estabilização a partir de 60 m³ ha-1. A causa do aumento substancial tanto das taxas como da quantidade absoluta de perda de água, solo e P por escoamento foi possivelmente o selamento superficial do solo promovido pelo próprio dejeto e pelo fato de a chuva ter ocorrido imediatamente após a aplicação deste.
Staphylococcal toxin genes in strains isolated from cows with subclinical mastitis
Authors: Freitas Manuela F.L. de , Luz Isabelle da S. , Silveira-Filho Vladimir da M. , W.P. Júnior José , Stamford Tânia L.M. , Mota Rinaldo A. , Sena Maria J. de , Almeida Alzira M.P. de , Balbino Valdir de Q. , Leal-Balbino Tereza C.
Published: March 2009

The present study was carried out in 11 dairy herds in four municipal districts of the rural area of the State of Pernambuco, Brazil. Out of 984 quarter milk (246 cows), 10 (1.0%) were positive for clinical mastitis, 562 (57.1%) for subclinical mastitis and 412 (41.9%) were negative. A total of 81 Staphylococcus spp. isolates were obtained from milk samples from the cows diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. From these, 53 (65.0%) were S. aureus, 16 (20.0%) coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS) and 12 (15.0%) coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS). The isolates were further investigated for the presence of toxin genes by multiplex and uniplex PCR. The main gene observed was seg followed by seh, sei and sej. The distribution of these observed genes among the isolates obtained from different areas showed a regional pattern for the SEs. The presence of toxin genes in the strains isolated from bovine milk demonstrates a potential problem for public health.
A fenomenologia e a epochê
Authors: Martini Renato da S.
Published: March 2009

Este artigo tenta dar uma visão geral sobre a epoché fenomenológica, relacionando-a ao problema da constituição do saber fenomenológico, e também da fundamentação da Ciência. A epoché, formulada assim de forma universal é considerada como uma alteração radical da atitude natural.
Teatro e pensamento
Authors: Bolognesi Mário Fernando
Published: March 2009

Platão tem uma visão negativa da arte e da tragédia. A "irracionalidade" da prática artística está na base dessa negação. Sua visão é contrária ao perspectivismo humanista de Eurípedes e dos sofistas. Na filosofia renascentista, o sujeito observador (temporal e racional) pressupõe o múltiplo e o infinito. O perspectivismo está na base dessa orientação e Shakespeare é a melhor expressão artística desse pressuposto defendido na filosofia por Giordano Bruno.
Bergson: intuição e método intuitivo
Authors: Coelho Jonas Gonçalves
Published: March 2009

Propomo-nos a mostrar que a intuição tal como aparece no pensamento de Bergson é tanto uma faculdade de conhecimento que se opõe à inteligência quanto um método filosófico constituído por procedimentos racionais, os quais a propiciam e enriquecem. Nesse sentido, ambos os aspectos da intuição estão intimamente ligados, sendo cada um imprescindível à compreensão do outro.
Preliminary evaluation of the "Dengue-MI" technology for Aedes aegyptimonitoring and control
Authors: Eiras Álvaro Eduardo , Resende Marcelo Carvalho
Published: March 2009

Limitations in the laboratory identification of Aedes aegypti and processing of field data based on larval surveys led to the development of the "Intelligent Dengue Monitoring" technology (MI-Dengue). MI-Dengue consists of a trap that captures gravid female Ae. aegypti, coupled with a computerized system for field data collection, transmission, and access to georeferenced maps in real time. The current study describe the first experience with a system for monitoring adult Ae. aegypti and presents the preliminary results in three municipalities that adopted MI-Dengue as a strategy to identify key areas and orient control measures. Weekly georeferenced maps and an entomological indicator (Mean Female Aedes Index) provided information on infested areas and infestation levels, color-coded according to the number of captured female Ae. aegypti, and indicated risk-free, dengue alert, and critical situations that triggered appropriate control measures. The preliminary results suggest that the adoption of this control strategy with house-to-house visits in a 200m radius of the positive trap helped reduce dengue in the municipalities that adopted the system.
Estrategia intersectorial y participativa con enfoque de ecosalud para la prevención de la transmisión de dengue en el nivel local
Authors: Díaz Cristina , Torres Yisel , Cruz Ana Margarita de la , Álvarez Ángel M. , Piquero María Eugenia , Valero Aida , Fuentes Omar
Published: March 2009

Cuba está ubicada en una zona de países con alta incidencia de dengue. En los últimos 10 años ha sido afectada por varias epidemias, es por ello que se diseñó, implementó y evaluó una estrategia participativa, basada en el enfoque de ecosalud, la cual estuvo dirigida a propiciar acciones intersectoriales en la gestión del ecosistema para disminuir las poblaciones del mosquito Aedes aegypti y prevenir la transmisión de dengue en el municipio Cotorro de Ciudad de La Habana, Cuba. Para el desarrollo de este trabajo se utilizó la metodología de investigación acción participativa. Como resultado del proceso se pudo describir una estrategia que garantiza la participación activa de la comunidad, los sectores y el gobierno en la producción de ecosistemas saludables, se desarrollaron acciones de prevención y control oportunas e integrados que disminuyeron los riesgos para la proliferación del vector y la transmisión local de la enfermedad. Este enfoque permitió el análisis holístico de los problemas, su priorización y la gestión de sus soluciones; la estrategia se sostiene dos años después de concluido el proceso.