bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sialic Acid on the Neuronal Glycocalyx Prevents Complement C1 Binding and Complement Receptor-3-Mediated Removal by Microglia
Authors: Linnartz Bettina , Kopatz Jens , Tenner Andrea J. , Neumann Harald
Published: January 2012

Microglial cells are professional phagocytes of the CNS responsible for clearance of unwanted structures. Neuronal processes are marked by complement C1 before they are removed in development or during disease processes. Target molecules involved in C1 binding and mechanisms of clearance are still unclear. Here we show that the terminal sugar residue sialic acid of the mouse neuronal glycocalyx determines complement C1 binding and microglial-mediated clearance function. Several early components of the classical complement cascade including C1q, C1r, C1s, and C3 were produced by cultured mouse microglia. The opsonin C1q was binding to neurites after enzymatic removal of sialic acid residues from the neuronal glycocalyx. Desialylated neurites, but not neurites with intact sialic acid caps, were cleared and taken up by cocultured microglial cells. The removal of the desialylated neurites was mediated via the complement receptor-3 (CR3; CD11b/CD18). Data demonstrate that mouse microglial cells via CR3 recognize and remove neuronal structures with an altered neuronal glycocalyx lacking terminal sialic acid.
Scaling of Movement Is Related to Pallidal γ Oscillations in Patients with Dystonia
Authors: Brücke Christof , Huebl Julius , Schönecker Thomas , Neumann Wolf-Julian , Yarrow Kielan , Kupsch Andreas , Blahak Christian , Lütjens Goetz , Brown Peter , Krauss Joachim K. , Schneider Gerd-Helge , Kühn Andrea A.
Published: January 2012

Neuronal synchronization in the gamma (γ) band is considered important for information processing through functional integration of neuronal assemblies across different brain areas. Movement-related γ synchronization occurs in the human basal ganglia where it is centered at ∼70 Hz and more pronounced contralateral to the moved hand. However, its functional significance in motor performance is not yet well understood. Here, we assessed whether event-related γ synchronization (ERS) recorded from the globus pallidus internus in patients undergoing deep brain stimulation for medically intractable primary focal and segmental dystonia might code specific motor parameters. Pallidal local field potentials were recorded in 22 patients during performance of a choice-reaction-time task. Movement amplitude of the forearm pronation-supination movements was parametrically modulated with an angular degree of 30°, 60°, and 90°. Only patients with limbs not affected by dystonia were tested. A broad contralateral γ band (35–105 Hz) ERS occurred at movement onset with a maximum reached at peak velocity of the movement. The pallidal oscillatory γ activity correlated with movement parameters: the larger and faster the movement, the stronger was the synchronization in the γ band. In contrast, the event-related decrease in beta band activity was similar for all movements. Gamma band activity did not change with movement direction and did not occur during passive movements. The stepwise increase of γ activity with movement size and velocity suggests a role of neuronal synchronization in this frequency range in basal ganglia control of the scaling of ongoing movements.
Methylphenidate-Elicited Dopamine Increases in Ventral Striatum Are Associated with Long-Term Symptom Improvement in Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Volkow Nora D. , Wang Gene-Jack , Tomasi Dardo , Kollins Scott H. , Wigal Tim L. , Newcorn Jeffrey H. , Telang Frank W. , Fowler Joanna S. , Logan Jean , Wong Christopher T. , Swanson James M.
Published: January 2012

Stimulant medications, such as methylphenidate, which are effective treatments for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), enhance brain dopamine signaling. However, the relationship between regional brain dopamine enhancement and treatment response has not been evaluated. Here, we assessed whether the dopamine increases elicited by methylphenidate are associated with long-term clinical response. We used a prospective design to study 20 treatment-naive adults with ADHD who were evaluated before treatment initiation and after 12 months of clinical treatment with a titrated regimen of oral methylphenidate. Methylphenidate-induced dopamine changes were evaluated with positron emission tomography and [11C]raclopride (D2/D3receptor radioligand sensitive to competition with endogenous dopamine). Clinical responses were assessed using the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scale and revealed a significant reduction in symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity with long-term methylphenidate treatment. A challenge dose of 0.5 mg/kg intravenous methylphenidate significantly increased dopamine in striatum (assessed as decreases in D2/D3receptor availability). In the ventral striatum, these dopamine increases were associated with the reductions in ratings of symptoms of inattention with clinical treatment. Statistical parametric mapping additionally showed dopamine increases in prefrontal and temporal cortices with intravenous methylphenidate that were also associated with decreases in symptoms of inattention. Our findings indicate that dopamine enhancement in ventral striatum (the brain region involved with reward and motivation) was associated with therapeutic response to methylphenidate, further corroborating the relevance of the dopamine reward/motivation circuitry in ADHD. It also provides preliminary evidence that methylphenidate-elicited dopamine increases in prefrontal and temporal cortices may also contribute to the clinical response.
Cdk5/p25-Induced Cytosolic PLA2-Mediated Lysophosphatidylcholine Production Regulates Neuroinflammation and Triggers Neurodegeneration
Authors: Sundaram Jeyapriya R. , Chan Elizabeth S. , Poore Charlene P. , Pareek Tej K. , Cheong Wei Fun , Shui Guanghou , Tang Ning , Low Chian-Ming , Wenk Markus R. , Kesavapany Sashi
Published: January 2012

The deregulation of cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) by p25 has been shown to contribute to the pathogenesis in a number of neurodegenerative diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). In particular, p25/Cdk5 has been shown to produce hyperphosphorylated tau, neurofibrillary tangles as well as aberrant amyloid precursor protein processing found in AD. Neuroinflammation has been observed alongside the pathogenic process in these neurodegenerative diseases, however the precise mechanism behind the induction of neuroinflammation and the significance in the AD pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated. In this report, we uncover a novel pathway for p25-induced neuroinflammation where p25 expression induces an early trigger of neuroinflammationin vivoin mice. Lipidomic mass spectrometry,in vitrococulture and conditioned media transfer experiments show that the soluble lipid mediator lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) is released by p25 overexpressing neurons to initiate astrogliosis, neuroinflammation and subsequent neurodegeneration. Reverse transcriptase PCR and gene silencing experiments show that cytosolic phospholipase 2 (cPLA2) is the key enzyme mediating the p25-induced LPC production and cPLA2 upregulation is critical in triggering the p25-mediated inflammatory and neurodegenerative process. Together, our findings delineate a potential therapeutic target for the reduction of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases including AD.
Epilepsy GeneLGI1Regulates Postnatal Developmental Remodeling of Retinogeniculate Synapses
Authors: Zhou Yu-Dong , Zhang Dawei , Ozkaynak Ekim , Wang Xuan , Kasper Ekkehard M. , Leguern Eric , Baulac Stéphanie , Anderson Matthew P.
Published: January 2012

Retinogeniculate connections undergo postnatal refinement in the developing visual system. Here we report that non-ion channel epilepsy geneLGI1(leucine-rich glioma-inactivated), mutated in human autosomal dominant lateral temporal lobe epilepsy (ADLTE), regulates postnatal pruning of retinal axons in visual relay thalamus. By introducing an ADLTE-associated truncated mutant LGI1 (836delC) or excess full-length LGI1 into transgenic mice, we found that mutant LGI1 blocks, whereas excess LGI1 accelerates, retinogeniculate axon pruning. The normal postnatal single fiber strengthening was arrested by mutant LGI1 and, contrastingly, was enhanced by excess wild-type LGI1. The maximum response of the retinogeniculate synapses, conversely, remained the same in matureLGI1transgenic mice, indicating that mutant LGI1 blocks, whereas excess wild-type LGI1 promotes, weak axon fiber elimination. Heterozygous deletion of theLGI1gene, as found in ADLTE patients, inhibited postnatal retinogeniculate synapse elimination, an effect similar to the ADLTE truncated mutant LGI1. The results identify sensory axon remodeling defects in a sensory aura-associated human epilepsy disorder.
Predicting Aversive Events and Terminating Fear in the Mouse Anterior Cingulate Cortex during Trace Fear Conditioning
Authors: Steenland Hendrik W. , Li Xiang-Yao , Zhuo Min
Published: January 2012

A variety of studies have implicated the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in fear, including permanent storage of fear memory. Recent pharmacological and genetic studies indicate that early synaptic plasticity in the ACC may also contribute to certain forms of fear memory at early time points. However, no study has directly examined the possible changes in neuronal activity of ACC neurons in freely behaving mice during early learning. In the present study, we examined the neural responses of the ACC during trace fear conditioning. We found that ACC putative pyramidal and nonpyramidal neurons were involved in the termination of fear behavior (“un-freezing”), and the spike activity of these neurons was reduced during freezing. Some of the neurons were also found to acquire un-freezing locked activity and change their tuning. The results implicate the ACC neurons in fear learning and controlling the abolition of fear behavior. We also show that the ACC is important for making cue-related fear memory associations in the trace fear paradigm as measured with tone-evoked potentials and single-unit activity. Collectively, our findings indicate that the ACC is involved in predicting future aversive events and terminating fear during trace fear.
Fully Integrated Micro Coriolis Mass Flow Sensor Operating at Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: Lötters Joost C. , Lammerink Theo S. , Haneveld Jeroen , Hagemann Tijmen A. G. , Wiegerink Remco J.
Published: January 2012

This paper discusses the design and realization of a micromachined micro Coriolis flow sensor with integrated electrodes for both electrostatic actuation and capacitive readout. The sensor was realized using semicircular channels just beneath the surface of the silicon wafer. The channels have thin silicon nitride walls to minimize the channel mass with respect to the mass of the moving fluid. A comb-shaped electrode design is used to prevent squeezed film damping so that the sensor can operate at atmospheric pressure, thus eliminating the need for vacuum packaging. The new sensor chip no longer requires large external magnets and the size of the chip itself has been reduced to 7.5×7.5 mm2.
Nichtinvasive Schallgeschwindigkeitsmessung in Fluiden auf Basis von Streupartikelechos
Authors: Lenz Michael , Kühnicke Elfgard
Published: January 2012

Bei konventionellen Messmethoden wird die Schallgeschwindigkeit unter Zuhilfenahme des Rückwandechos oder des Echos eines Reflektors an bekannter Position ermittelt. Diese Veröffentlichung stellt ein neues Verfahren vor, mit dessen Hilfe eine kombinierte Messung von Schallgeschwindigkeit und Entfernungen in Fluiden mit Streupartikeln möglich ist. Das Verfahren nutzt aus, dass das von einem Streupartikel stammende Echosignal maximal ist, wenn sich das Streupartikel an der Position des Schallfeldmaximums befindet. Über die Messung der Schalllaufzeit zwischen Ultraschallwandler und Schallfeldmaximum ist es möglich, die Position des Schalldruckmaximums und die Schallgeschwindigkeit zu bestimmen. Die Veröffentlichung veranschaulicht das Konzept anhand von Messungen in Fluiden mit Schallgeschwindigkeiten zwischen 1116 m/s und 2740 m/s, wobei ein fokussierender Ultraschallwandler mit Linse verwendet wurde. Dabei konnte eine statistische Unsicherheit bei der Bestimmung der Schallgeschwindigkeit von weniger als 0,1% erreicht werden. Zusätzliche Experimente und Simulationen mit einem Annulararray zeigen, dass die Fokusposition ohne Bewegung des Wandlers variiert werden kann, und somit die Messung von Schallgeschwindigkeitsprofilen möglich ist.
Optischer Biosensor auf Basis abhängiger Expression fluoreszierender Proteine
Authors: Kothe Janette , Schröter Anna , Zarschler Kristof , Wersing Dagmar , Mkandawire Martin , Ostermann Kai , Pompe Wolfgang , Rödel Gerhard , Gerlach Gerald
Published: January 2012

Eine Vielzahl von Prozessen in der Medizin, Biotechnologie, Verfahrenstechnik und Analytik erfordern die spezifische Detektion und Quantifizierung bestimmter Stoffe, wie zum Bespiel Schwermetalle, Antibiotika oder Stoffwechselintermediate. Zahlreiche Studien der letzten Jahre haben bewiesen, dass biologische Wandler grundsätzlich in der Lage sind, solche vielfältigen Messaufgaben zu bewältigen. In dieser Arbeit wird eine Entwicklung vorgestellt, bei der ein solcher Wandler als Chip-basierter Ganzzellsensor aufgebaut wurde, bei dem die abhängige Fluoreszenz optisch ausgelesen wird. Dabei wird das Potential robuster, optischer Biosensoren untersucht.
Nanoaesthetics: From the Molecular to the Machine
Authors: Spector Tami I.
Published: January 2012

Rooted in the history of the representation of benzene, this paper examines the evolution of nanoaesthetics from the 1985 discovery of buckminsterfullerene forward, including the aesthetics of molecular machines and scanning probe microscopy (SPM). It highlights buckminsterfullerene's Platonic aesthetics, the aesthetic relationship of nanocars and molecular switches to Boyle's seventeenth-century mechanistic philosophy and twentieth-century machine aesthetics, and the photographic aesthetics of SPM.
Constitutive Interference: Spam and Online Communities
Authors: Brunton Finn
Published: January 2012

This paper examines the large and strange domain of spam and the role of spamming in the development of virtual communities and Internet governance. It contends that spamming operates by exploiting the tension between communities and the technological infrastructure that underlies them, and that these exploits illuminate both the complex relationship between virtual communities and the governments within which they operate and the changing politics of attention online.
Reading the Greuze Girl: The Daughter's Seduction
Authors: Barker Emma
Published: January 2012

This essay challenges the generally accepted interpretation of Greuze's Young Girl Weeping over Her Dead Bird (1765) as an allegory of lost virginity by considering the painting in relation to eighteenth-century representations of the young girl in a range of discourses. The central contention is that the implied spectator to whom the picture is addressed is a quasi-paternal figure who disavows his own desire for the girl whilst nevertheless enjoying an eroticized intimacy with her. In thereby raising the specter of incest even as it represses it, the painting exemplifies deep-seated tensions within later eighteenth-century French culture.
Confirmatory testing in primary aldosteronism: extensive medication switching is not needed in all patients
Authors: Solar Miroslav , Malirova Eva , Ballon Marek , Pelouch Radek , Ceral Jiri
Published: January 2012

Objective

Confirmatory testing of suspected primary aldosteronism (PA) requires an extensive medication switch that can be difficult for patients with severe complicated hypertension and/or refractory hypokalemia. For this reason, we investigated the effect of chronic antihypertensive medication on confirmatory testing results. To allow the results to be interpreted, the reproducibility of confirmatory testing was also evaluated.

Design and methods

The study enrolled 114 individuals with suspected PA who underwent two confirmatory tests. The patients were divided into two groups. In Group A, both tests were performed on the guidelines-recommended therapy, i.e. not interfering with the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system. In Group B, the first test was performed on chronic therapy with the exclusion of thiazides, loop diuretics, and aldosterone antagonists; and the second test was performed on guidelines-recommended therapy. Saline infusion, preceded by oral sodium loading, was used to suppress aldosterone secretion.

Results

Agreement in the interpretation of the two confirmatory tests was observed in 84 and 66% of patients in Groups A and B respectively. For all 20 individuals in Group A who ever had end-test serum aldosterone levels ≥240 pmol/l, aldosterone was concordantly nonsuppressible during the other test. Similarly, for all 16 individuals in Group B who had end-test serum aldosterone levels ≥240 pmol/l on modified chronic therapy, aldosterone remained nonsuppressible with guidelines-recommended therapy.

Conclusion

Confirmatory testing performed while the patient is on chronic therapy without diuretics and aldosterone antagonists can confirm the diagnosis of PA, provided serum aldosterone remains markedly elevated at the end of saline infusion.
INFLUENCE OF THE INDEX METALLIC SALTS - COMPLEXING AGENT IN A SOL-GEL PROCESS TO OBTAIN NANOSCALED ZIRCONIUM SUBSTITUTED YTTRIUM (YSZ) TO ELECTROLYTE APPLICATION IN SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL (SOFC)
Authors: Cienfuegos-Pelaes Rene Fabian , Correa Alejandro Ehécatl , Salazar Ramona Alicia , Chávez-Guerrero L. , Hinojosa M.
Published: January 2012

The objective of the present study is to obtain the electrolyte material YSZ at low cost via sol gel, through exploration of the index rate between the complexing agents and the metallic salts (HMTA / metallic salts) from 1 to 5, prepared by a polymeric way in a sol gel process. We show an easy method that could be used in the industrial scale in order to obtain solid electrolyte material for its application in SOFC to operate at temperatures in the range of 700 800°C. This study has as reference the papers from Lenormand and Rieu about their synthesis of zirconium substituted to 8% of yttrium (CYSZ= 0.2 mol*L-1 metallic salts concentration-). The presence of the phase in the materials has been confirmed by X-ray diffraction assisted by thermal analysis tests, for indexes from 2 to 5 at a temperature of 1000°C for 5 hours at a calcination rate (from amorphous dust obtained at 400°C) of 1000°C per hour. The grain size mean for crystalline powder has an average near 50 nm and standard deviation close to 9 nm, it was confirmed by scanning electron microscope (SEM).
Épocas de poda e produtividade da mandioca
Authors: Aguiar Eduardo Barreto , Bicudo Silvio José , Curcelli Felipe , Figueiredo Priscila Gonzales , Cruz Simério Carlos Silva
Published: January 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de diferentes épocas de poda no desenvolvimento, na produção e na qualidade de raízes tuberosas de mandioca. Foram conduzidos dois experimentos, em duas localidades do Estado de São Paulo: Botucatu, em área de solo argiloso, e São Manuel, em solo arenoso. Os experimentos foram conduzidos de setembro de 2008 a junho de 2010, e a colheita foi feita após dois ciclos vegetativos (22 meses). Utilizou-se o delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições. Foram avaliados dez tratamentos, nove épocas de poda espaçadas mensalmente, entre abril e dezembro, e uma testemunha conduzida sem poda. As épocas de poda foram analisadas estatisticamente por contrastes ortogonais, em comparação à testemunha, e por regressão. A poda da mandioca realizada no período de repouso fisiológico não altera o teor de matéria seca e a produtividade de raízes tuberosas. No entanto, quando realizada no final do primeiro ciclo ou após o início do segundo ciclo vegetativo, a poda reduz o teor de matéria seca e a produtividade de raízes.
Parâmetros genéticos para características de crescimento e reprodução de bovinos da raça Canchim
Authors: Borba Luis Henrique Fernandes , Rey Fernando Sebástian Baldi , Silva Luiz Otávio Campos da , Boligon Arione Augusti , Alencar Maurício Mello de
Published: January 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi estimar parâmetros genéticos para idades ao primeiro (IPP) e segundo partos (ISP), idades ao primeiro (IPP PEN) e segundo partos penalizadas (ISP PEN), e a ocorrência de parto até os 38 meses de idade (PP38), em bovinos da raça Canchim, bem como estimar as relações genéticas entre essas características e o peso (PE420) de machos e femêas e a circunferência escrotal (CE420) de novilhos, medidos aos 420 dias de idade. Foram estimados parâmetros genéticos em análises bicaracterísticas, por meio de inferência bayesiana. As análises foram realizadas entre CE420 e PE420 e as características reprodutivas medidas em fêmeas. As características reprodutivas das fêmeas devem apresentar baixa resposta à seleção, e mudanças no manejo e nas condições ambientais melhoram tais características. A seleção quanto ao maior peso aos 420 dias de idade não deve provocar mudanças nas características reprodutivas em fêmeas, enquanto a seleção para o aumento da circunferência escrotal, na mesma idade, contribui para melhorar tais características.
Citando Mario Juruna: imaginário linguístico e a transformação da voz indígena na imprensa brasileira
Authors: Graham Laura R.
Published: January 2012

No presente artigo, revelo os mecanismos textuais que influentes editores de notícias empregaram para manipular a compreensão popular acerca de Mario Juruna, líder xavante que desempenhou um papel importante no avanço da democracia durante a ditadura militar brasileira e se tornou o primeiro indígena eleito para o Congresso Nacional. Argumento que os editores usaram as mensagens implícitas da representação da linguagem para encetar mudanças na percepção do público a respeito do líder xavante, mudando, com isso, a opinião a seu respeito. O caso Juruna evidencia que os recursos linguísticos são ferramentas poderosas que instituições hegemônicas, como a imprensa e outros grupos dominantes, podem empregar para promover seus próprios interesses, influenciando a opinião pública em questões de importância política e social.
Usos de sex toys: a circulação erótica entre objetos e pessoas
Authors: Gregori Maria Filomena
Published: January 2012

Este artigo apresenta uma discussão em torno das articulações entre pessoas, corpos e objetos e seus efeitos sobre as normas de gênero e de sexualidade, a partir de depoimentos de usuários de acessórios eróticos. As relações implicadas nos usos e nas práticas desses objetos sugerem, em particular, experiências de deslocamento entre sexo e gênero, corpo e matéria, sujeito e objeto, presença e virtualidade.
Utilização do planejamento experimental em rede simplex no estudo de resíduo de rocha ornamental como filler para obtenção de máxima compacidade
Authors: Destefani A. Z. , Holanda J. N. F.
Published: January 2012

A utilização de agregados industrializados vem crescendo ao longo dos anos para atender a grande demanda da construção civil devido ao crescimento econômico do país. O objetivo deste trabalho foi utilizar o planejamento experimental em Rede Simplex para avaliar o efeito da adição do resíduo de rocha ornamental como filler na composição de misturas ternárias (brita 0, pó de pedra e resíduo), que levem a máxima compacidade (densidade seca aparente máxima). Foram tomados dezesseis pontos experimentais, cujos teores dos materiais utilizados variaram de 0 a 100%. O modelo em rede simplex cúbico completo apresentou melhor ajuste aos resultados experimentais, o qual resulta em respostas estatisticamente mais adequadas para as composições estudadas. A superfície de resposta gerada indicou que a densidade seca aparente máxima de 2,0 g/cm³ foi obtida para a composição ternária: 63% de brita 0/17% de pó de pedra/20% de resíduo de rocha ornamental. Portanto, o uso de resíduo de rocha ornamental como filler em agregados para a construção civil pode ser uma alternativa viável para deposição final deste abundante resíduo de forma ambientalmente correta.
Lebiasina yepezi, a new Lebiasininae (Characiformes: Lebiasinidae) from the Serra Parima-Tapirapecó mountains
Authors: Netto-Ferreira André L. , Oyakawa Osvaldo T. , Zuanon Jansen , Nolasco José C.
Published: January 2012

Lebiasina yepezi, a new Lebiasininae with a conspicuous color pattern, is described. The new species is endemic of the headwaters of the rio Negro, rio Branco, and rio Orinoco in the Serra Parima-Tapirapecó Mountains, at the border of Brazil and Venezuela. The new species is readily distinguished from all other Lebiasininae by the presence of four black longitudinal stripes on the trunk, and the triangular shaped dorsal surface of the mesethmoid, lacking lateral projections. The unusual color pattern is contrasted with those of other lebiasinin, as well as members of the pyrrhulinin genus Nannostomus. A close relationship between Lebiasina yepezi and the Gran Sabana (Venezuela) species is suggested based in color pattern features. The present contribution corresponds to a further refutation of the type locality of L. intermedia, as suggested on its description, since Lebiasinins, except L. bimaculata, L. boruca, and L. festae, do not occur in low land waters.
Spatial patterns of zooplanktivore Chirostoma species (Atherinopsidae) during water-level fluctuation in the shallow tropical Lake Chapala, Mexico: seasonal and interannual analysis
Authors: Moncayo-Estrada Rodrigo , Escalera-Gallardo Carlos , Lind Owen T.
Published: January 2012

This study addresses the influence of water-level fluctuations on fish distribution at two temporal scales: seasonal (dry and rainy) and interannual (low and high volume conditions). The analysis of abundance relationships among three zooplanktivore Chirostoma species at fifteen sites in Lake Chapala, Mexico, revealed the significant influence of contrasting conditions (P=0.0002). Seasonally, segregation was more related to species dominance in the dry season and exclusively related to environmental characteristics in the rainy season. Interanually, biotic influence occurred in the shallowest and the deepest episodes of the lake. Environmental characteristics influenced species distribution when the lake reached 25% of its volume. Site, depth, temperature, and salinity were the leading factors influencing fish distribution. These results emphasize the necessity to implement different management strategies according to lake volume, particularly when a critical threshold is reached.
Growing, losing or introducing? Cage aquaculture as a vector for the introduction of non-native fish in Furnas Reservoir, Minas Gerais, Brazil
Authors: Azevedo-Santos Valter Monteiro de , Rigolin-Sá Odila , Pelicice Fernando Mayer
Published: January 2012

Cage aquaculture has been developed in many countries, including Brazil. This form of production, although economically productive, may cause several impacts to the environment. Considering the historical relationship between aquaculture and species introduction, our study investigated the potential of cage aquaculture in spreading non-native species into hydroelectric reservoirs. We interviewed 19 fish farmers in Furnas Reservoir, Grande River basin. All producers have grown exclusively Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), an African fish, and all producers reported the occurrence of fish escapes. Releases were mainly accidental, but highly frequent during some management procedures, such as length classification, fish capture and juvenile stocking. Escapes were also reported due to cage damage and deliberate releases. These results indicate that, in cage aquaculture facilities, fish are frequently released to the external environment. When raising non-native species (e.g. Furnas Reservoir), these facilities constitute an important vector for fish introductions.
Uso medicinal da pimenta malagueta (Capsicum frutescens L.) em uma comunidade de várzea à margem do rio Amazonas, Santarém, Pará, Brasil
Authors: Roman André Luís Cote , Ming Lin Chau , Carvalho Izabel de , Sablayrolles Maria das Graças Pires
Published: January 2012

Neste trabalho, efetuou-se um levantamento etnobotânico voltado à compreensão da importância medicinal da pimenta malagueta (Capsicum frutescens L.) no cotidiano dos moradores de Cabeça D'Onça, uma localidade de várzea, situada à margem do rio Amazonas. Pertencente ao município de Santarém, estado do Pará, a comunidade é constituída por aproximadamente 330 habitantes. Ao todo, foram entrevistadas 116 pessoas residentes em 70 domicílios. As informações concernentes aos diferentes propósitos medicinais de uso das pimentas, recolhidas mediante entrevistas semiestruturadas, foram compiladas pormenorizadamente. Na segunda etapa do trabalho, foram realizadas entrevistas estruturadas em 40 domicílios, com 80 pessoas (40 casais), para se determinar quais as indicações das pimentas eram mais conhecidas na área de estudo. Do contato com a água do Amazonas, reputam-se algumas doenças, citadas por mais de 50% dos entrevistados, curadas com a malagueta, tais como o 'pano-branco' e a 'impinge' (tratados com as folhas) e o reumatismo (tratado com os frutos). Por meio de comparações entre os dados obtidos nesta pesquisa e os registros encontrados na literatura, verifica-se forte influência indígena quanto aos modos de utilização medicinal das pimentas.
Artefatos de miriti (Mauritia flexuosa L. f.) em Abaetetuba, Pará: da produção à comercialização
Authors: Santos Ronize da Silva , Coelho-Ferreira Márlia
Published: January 2012

No estuário amazônico, a palmeira Mauritia flexuosa L. f. (miriti) é conhecida por fornecer matéria-prima para a confecção de cestaria e brinquedos, ambos de relevância econômica e cultural para a população local. Este estudo teve como objetivo realizar um levantamento a respeito da produção e comercialização dos dois principais artefatos - paneiros e brinquedos de miriti, no município de Abaetetuba, Pará. A pesquisa foi conduzida na comunidade ribeirinha de Cutininga e em duas associações de artesãos da sede municipal, por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas e não estruturadas, envolvendo 18 informantes. Entre os produtos cesteiros comercializados, o paneiro é o único que conseguiu se manter no mercado e atualmente é a principal fonte de renda para os moradores da comunidade de Cutininga. Já a comercialização dos brinquedos de miriti vem ganhando maior expressividade a cada ano, com ápice de produção em outubro, durante a festividade do Círio de Nossa Senhora de Nazaré. Tanto os brinquedos como os paneiros atingiram escala comercial, sendo que o brinquedo é o produto feito da folha de Mauritia flexuosa L. f. de maior representatividade econômica no município. Porém, na região das ilhas, onde está situada Cutininga, constatou-se que o paneiro apresenta maior importância econômica.
Entre as intensividades da vida e o "roçar" da morte: uma cartografia de experiência com psicoativos
Authors: Toneli Maria Juracy Filgueiras , Silva Fernando Luiz Salgado da
Published: January 2012

Este trabalho é fruto de uma pesquisa de Iniciação Científica, financiado pelo CNPQ em 2008, na qual investiga-se processos de produção de subjetividade na internet, particularmente no ciberespaço Orkut, que, na época, apresentava relevo no âmbito de estudos de processos de subjetivações contemporâneas. Assim, a partir da noção de ética e moral proposta por Gilles Deleuze, intenta-se cartografar comunidades de Orkut que socializam experiências e/ou opiniões envolvendo o uso de psicoativos, a fim de estudar o modo como esses sujeitos vivem essas experiências. O foco de investigação é colocar em análise o modo como essas experiências, envolvendo estados alterados de consciência, foram narradas, bem como as articulações entre moral e ética estão delineadas. Para tanto, faz-se uso do método cartográfico, objetivando estudar a dimensão processual da subjetividade e de seu processo de produção.
Controvérsias como práticas discursivas: uma abordagem retórica
Authors: Ribeiro Flávia Regina Guedes
Published: January 2012

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar alguns conceitos analíticos fundamentais para a realização de uma interpretação retórica em material empírico discursivo. Para este fim, apresentamos primeiramente o Construcionismo como vertente epistemológica de apoio para o estudo da linguagem na construção de fatos sociais; em seguida fazemos uma abordagem das diferentes correntes de análise de discurso para depois discutirmos o enfoque da Psicologia Discursiva sob a perspectiva das Práticas Discursivas; a noção de controvérsia é discutida na quarta parte, juntamente com a noção de recursos estratégicos e, por ultimo, apresentamos um exemplo de análise retórica para ilustrar a discussão metodológica apresentada.
Modos de ensinar e conhecer Historia da Psicologia
Authors: Matos Rosângela Luz
Published: January 2012

Este artigo parte do relato de uma experiência profissional na docência para problematizar o ensino de História da Psicologia na formação de psicólogos. O percurso argumentativo descreve as circunstâncias e os questionamentos que contribuíram para o desenvolvimento de metodologias fundadas na perspectiva genealógica de ensinar e conhecer psicologia. A análise da experiência enfatiza a potência ético-política presente nas atividades de ensino de História da Psicologia, no conjunto das práticas disciplinares dos currículos de graduação para formação de psicólogos.
Palliative Care in Advanced Cancer Patients: How and When?
Authors: Bruera Eduardo , Yennurajalingam Sriram
Published: January 2012

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Discuss the impact of early access to palliative care service on symptom control, quality of life, and cost of care.Formulate strategies to improve early palliative care access through education and research.

This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

Cancer patients develop severe physical and psychological symptoms as a result of their disease and treatment. Their families commonly suffer great emotional distress as a result of caregiving. Early palliative care access can improve symptom control and quality of life and reduce the cost of care. Preliminary results show that early palliative care access can also extend survival. Unfortunately, only a minority of cancer centers in the U.S. have the two most important resources for palliative care delivery: outpatient palliative care centers and inpatient palliative care units. In this article, we use a case presentation to discuss the impact of early palliative care access in light of the currently available evidence, and we recommend ways to improve early access to palliative care through education and research.
Procalcitonin-based therapeutic strategy to reduce antibiotic use in patients after cardiac surgery: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Maravic-Stojkovic Vera , Lausevic-Vuk Ljiljana , Jovic Miomir , Rankovic Aleksandra , Borzanovic Milorad , Marinkovic Jelena
Published: January 2012

Introduction. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a thyroid gland prohormone, and its
serum concentration is elevated in systemic bacterial infections. The
diagnostic cut-off value of PCT in patients early after cardiac surgery
remains unclear. Objective. We investigated whether procalcitonin-guidance
could reduce antibiotic usage safely. Methods. The prospective study included
205 patients who underwent open heart surgery. The patients were randomly
assigned for procalcitonin-guided antibiotic treatment (PCT-group; n=102) or
standard care (standard group; n=103). On the basis of serum procalcitonin
concentrations, usage of antibiotics was encouraged (PCT?0.5 ng/mL) or
discouraged. Results. A relative risk of antibiotic exposure in the standard
group compared with the PCT-group was 3.81 (95% CI=2.03-7.17; p<0.0001). The
mean cost of antibiotics per patient in procalcitonin group was ?193.3?636.6
vs. ?372.1?841.1 (p=0.206) in the standard group, while the mean cost per
hospital day was ?8.0?18.4 vs. ?17.8?36.3 (p=0.028). We found that
non-infectious complications occurred in 40/102 vs. 41/103 (p=0.592) while
infections appeared in 5/102 vs. 22/103 (p=0.001) cases. A statistically
significant difference was observed in the treatment of urinary infections
between PCT-group and standard group; 1/102 vs. 9/103 (p=0.016). In the
PCT-group, the ICU stay was 5.74?11.49 days and in the standard group
6.97?11.61 (p=0.812). The hospital stay was 12.08?11.28 vs. 12.93?10.73
(p>0.05) days, respectively. Mortality rates were equal in both groups of
patients (p=0.537). Conclusion. Procalcitonin-guided antibiotic treatment is
safe and can significantly reduce the cost of postoperative care.
Additionally, the antibiotic use during immediate postoperative course should
be timely controlled and limited to documented bacterial infections.
Epilepsy in a child with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome
Authors: Mitic Vesna , Cuturilo Goran , Novakovic Ivana , Dimitrijevic Nikola , Damnjanovic Tatjana , Dimitrijevic Aleksandar , Dobricic Valerija , Kostic Vladimir , Radlovic Nedeljko
Published: January 2012

Introduction. Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) is a rare chromosomal disorder
characterized by facial dismorphy, multiple congenital anomalies, delayed
psychomotor development and pharmaco-resistant epilepsy. Case Outline. We
present a 5-year-old girl with severe delay in growth and development,
microcephaly, mild facial dismorphy and epilepsy. The pregnancy was
complicated by intrauterine growth retardation. Generalized muscle hypotonia
was observed at birth. First seizures started at age of 9 months as
unilateral convulsive status epilepticus (SE), sometimes with bilateral
generalization. Seizures were often triggered by fever and were resistant to
antiepileptic treatment. Introduction of lamotrigine and valproate therapy
led to complete seizure control at the age of 33 months.
Electroencephalographic (EEG) finding was typical at the beginning. After
transitory improvement between age four and five years, epileptiform EEG
activity appeared again at the age of five years, without observed clinical
seizures. Magnetic resonance imaging showed diffuse brain atrophy and delay
in myelination. Using Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA)
method, we disclosed heterozygote microdeletation of the distal part of the
short arm of chromosome 4 (4p16). Conclusion. We present a clinical course of
epilepsy in a patient with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome. The diagnosis was
verified by modern molecular technique. This is the first molecular
characterization of a patient with WHS performed in our country.
Frequent unifocal ventricular premature contractions that caused dilated cardiomyopathy: Resolution of myocardial function after successful catheter-ablation of arrhythmia focus
Authors: Mujovic Nebojsa , Grujic Miodrag , Kocijancic Aleksandar , Mrdja Stevan , Mujovic Natasa
Published: January 2012

Introduction. In patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and frequent
ventricular premature beats (VPBs) it may be difficult to evaluate whether
ventricular arrhythmia is the cause or consequence of heart failure. However,
it is very important to recognize VPBs as a potentially reversible cause of
myocardial dysfunction, because arrhythmia suppression in these patients may
lead to recovery of myocardial contractility. Case Outline. An asymptomatic
24-year-old man with DCM and frequent VPBs of left bundle branch morphology
with inferior axis was referred to our Department for further evaluation.
Echocardiographic examination showed left ventricular dilation with reduced
ejection fraction to 40%, while 24 h Holter-monitoring recorded 31,000
isolated VPBs refractory to drug treatment. During the electrophysiologic
study a VPBs? focus in the right ventricular outflow tract was identified
which was successfully resolved by radiofrequency catheter-ablation.
Immediately after the procedure, considerable suppression of VES number to
2500/24 h was confirmed by Holter-recording, while complete recovery of left
ventricular function was detected one month later by echocardiographic
re-examination. Conclusion. Recognition of causal-resultant relation between
frequent VPBs and progressive myocardial dysfunction is of primary importance
for adequate treatment. Although it has been believed for a long time that
idiopathic ventricular arrhythmia, in otherwise healthy persons, has a benign
prognosis, there is evidence that frequent VPBs may present a reversible
cause of DCM. In these patients catheter-ablation of arrhythmic focus is
strongly recommended, because soon after the successful procedure recovery of
myocardial function can be expected.
Granulocytic sarcoma of the femur in a patient with acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Colovic Natasa , Bogdanovic Andrija , Vidovic Ana , Perunicic-Jovanovic Maja , Colovic Milica
Published: January 2012

Introduction. Granulocytic sarcoma, chloroma or myeloblastoma are observed in
3% to7% of acute myeloid leukaemia and represents localized tumour composed
of collection of immature leukaemic cells. It appears most frequently in
patients with M2, M4 and M5 subtypes of acute myeloid leukaemia Case Outline.
A 58-year-old female presented with pain and oedema of the right upper limb
in November 2009. After two months the patinet had fracture dislocation and
numerous osteolytic lesions of the right femur. Immunohistochemistry of
tumour biopsy showed megakaryoblastic granulocytic sarcoma which was CD31++,
F-XIII++, CD34-, FVIII+++, S100-, aktin-, EMA++, Bcl2++, CD43++, with
positive proliferative marker measured with Ki-67 positivity in more of 50%
of cells. Aspirate of bone marrow and immunophenotyping with flowcytometry
revealed diagnosis of acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia. The course of the
disease was rapid and the patient died before commencing chemotherapy, five
months after first complaints. Conclusion. Granulocytic sarcoma is
extramedullary localization of collection of leukaemia cells which can
proceed, to arise concomitantly with leukaemia, or may be the only
manifestation of the disease. The diagnosis can be established only with
immunohystochemistry.
The Differential Improvement Effects of the Strategy Map and Scorecard Perspectives on Managers' Strategic Judgments
Authors: Cheng Mandy M. , Humphreys Kerry A.
Published: January 2012

This study examines the effect that two key balanced scorecard (BSC) framework elements—causal linkages between strategic objectives in the strategy map and performance measures categorized by scorecard perspective—have on managers' ability to interpret the strategic relevance of external information and use this information to evaluate the appropriateness of an organization's strategy. We conduct two experiments, finding that presenting a set of strategic objectives as a strategy map enhances both managers' information relevance and strategy appropriateness judgments. We attribute this improvement to the explication of causal linkages between objectives in a strategy map. In contrast, presenting performance measures categorized by scorecard perspective only improves managers' strategy appropriateness judgments when the managers are provided with a set of strategic objectives that are not presented in a strategy map structure. Our study contributes to the literature by demonstrating that these two elements of the BSC framework have differential decision-facilitating impacts on managers' strategic judgments.

Data Availability: Data are available from the authors upon request.
ABC Information, Fairness Perceptions, and Interfirm Negotiations
Authors: Masschelein Stijn , Cardinaels Eddy , Van den Abbeele Alexandra
Published: January 2012

We examine the effect of more precise cost information on contract renegotiations between supply-chain parties. Specifically, we experimentally investigate the benefits of activity-based costing (ABC) information to address common supply-chain inefficiencies that are caused by the buyer or the seller, but have the same underlying costs. Results suggest that the impact of more precise cost information depends crucially on the cause of the inefficiency that parties need to address during the negotiation. ABC information increases the total joint profit in the supply chain. However, ABC information increases the seller's perceptions of the fairness of the buyer's arguments for contract changes only when the buyer causes the inefficiency but not when the seller causes the inefficiency. The combined effect of ABC information on joint profit and fairness perceptions thus increases the buyer's profit only when buyer causes the inefficiency but not when the seller causes the inefficiency.

Data Availability: Data are available from the first author upon request.
Nonfinancial Disclosure and Analyst Forecast Accuracy: International Evidence on Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure
Authors: Dhaliwal Dan S. , Radhakrishnan Suresh , Tsang Albert , Yang Yong George
Published: January 2012

We examine the relationship between disclosure of nonfinancial information and analyst forecast accuracy using firm-level data from 31 countries. We use the issuance of stand-alone corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports to proxy for disclosure of nonfinancial information. We find that the issuance of stand-alone CSR reports is associated with lower analyst forecast error. This relationship is stronger in countries that are more stakeholder-oriented—i.e., in countries where CSR performance is more likely to affect firm financial performance. The relationship is also stronger for firms and countries with more opaque financial disclosure, suggesting that issuance of stand-alone CSR reports plays a role complementary to financial disclosure. These results hold after we control for various factors related to firm financial transparency and other potentially confounding institutional factors. Collectively, our findings have important implications for academics and practitioners in understanding the function of CSR disclosure in financial markets.

Data Availability: The data are publicly available from the sources identified in the paper.
The Effect of Accounting Information on Taxpayers' Acceptance of Tax Reform
Authors: Maroney James J. , Jackson Cynthia M. , Rupert Timothy J. , Zhang Yue (May)
Published: January 2012

The United States faces exceptionally large budget deficits over the foreseeable future that threaten the nation's financial stability (Bernanke 2010). A large portion of these deficits is due to the Social Security and Medicare programs. Thus, given the likely need to reform these programs, we use a model of rational choice proposed by Margolis (1981, 1984) and conduct an experiment to determine if the accounting information provided about the Social Security system affects taxpayers' acceptance of reform. We find that participants who receive accrual basis financial information are more concerned about the sustainability of the system and, most important, are willing to accept a greater share of the burden of reforming the Social Security system than participants receiving cash basis financial information and participants in the control condition. However, through supplemental analyses we also find that if the survival of the Social Security system is placed into question, the willingness to sacrifice begins to decline.

Data Availability: Data are available from the authors on request.