bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiorenal Syndrome Type 1 May Be Immunologically Mediated: A Pilot Evaluation of Monocyte Apoptosis
Authors: Virzì Grazia Maria , Torregrossa Rossella , Cruz Dinna N. , Chionh Chang Y. , de Cal Massimo , Soni Sachin S. , Dominici Massimo , Vescovo Giorgio , Rosner Mitchell H. , Ronco Claudio
Published: January 2012

Background: Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) type 1 is characterized by a rapid worsening of cardiac function leading to acute kidney injury (AKI). An immune-mediated damage and alteration of immune response have been postulated as potential mechanisms involved in CRS type 1. In this pilot study, we examined the possible role of the immune-mediated mechanisms in the pathogenesis of this syndrome. The main objective was to analyze in vitro that plasma of CRS type 1 patients was able to trigger a response in monocytes resulting in apoptosis. The secondary aim was to evaluate TNF-α and IL-6 plasma levels of CRS type 1 patients. Methods: Fifteen patients with acute heart failure (AHF) and CRS type 1 were enrolled and 20 healthy volunteers without AHF or AKI were recruited as control group. Plasma from these two groups was incubated with monocytes and, subsequently, cell apoptosis was evaluated. In addition, the activity of caspase-8 was assessed after 24 h incubation. Quantitative determination of TNF-α and IL-6 levels was performed. Results: Plasma-induced apoptosis was significantly higher in CRS type 1 patients compared with healthy controls at 72 h (78 vs. 11%) and 96 h (81 vs. 11%). At 24 h, the activity of caspase-8 was significantly higher in monocytes incubated with plasma from the CRS type 1 group. TNF-α (2.39 vs. 28.49 pg/ml) and IL-6 (4.8 vs. 16.5 pg/ml) levels were significantly elevated in the CRS type 1 group (p < 0.01). Conclusions: In conclusion, there is a defective regulation of monocyte apoptosis in CRS type 1 patients, and inflammatory pathways may have a central role in the pathogenesis of CRS type 1 and may be fundamental in damage to distant organs.
Structural Equation Modeling Highlights the Potential of Kim-1 as a Biomarker for Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Gardiner Lesley , Akintola Adebayo , Chen Gang , Catania Jeffrey M. , Vaidya Vishal , Burghardt Robert C. , Bonventre Joseph V. , Trzeciakowski Jerome , Parrish Alan R.
Published: January 2012

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health problem, and despite continued research in the field, there is still a need to identify both biomarkers of risk and progression, as well as potential therapeutic targets. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is a family of statistical techniques that has been utilized in the fields of sociology and psychology for many years; however, its utilization in the biological sciences is relatively novel. SEM’s ability to investigate complex relationships in an efficient, single model could be utilized to understand the progression of CKD, as well as to develop a predictive model to assess kidney status in the patient. Methods: Fischer 344 rats were fed either an ad libitum diet or a calorically restricted diet, and a time-course study of kidney structure and function was performed. EQS, a SEM software package, was utilized to generate five CKD models of the Fisher 344 rat and identify relationships between measured variables and estimates of kidney damage and kidney function. Results: All models identified strong relationships between a biomarker for CKD, kidney injury molecule-1 (Kim-1) and kidney damage, in the Fischer 344 rat CKD model. Models also indicate a strong relationship between age and renal damage and dysfunction. Conclusion: SEM can be used to model CKD and could be useful to examine biomarkers in CKD patients.
Multi-Objective Optimization with Estimation of Distribution Algorithm in a Noisy Environment
Authors: Shim Vui Ann , Tan Kay Chen , Chia Jun Yong , Al Mamun Abdullah
Published: January 2012

Many real-world optimization problems are subjected to uncertainties that may be characterized by the presence of noise in the objective functions. The estimation of distribution algorithm (EDA), which models the global distribution of the population for searching tasks, is one of the evolutionary computation techniques that deals with noisy information. This paper studies the potential of EDAs; particularly an EDA based on restricted Boltzmann machines that handles multi-objective optimization problems in a noisy environment. Noise is introduced to the objective functions in the form of a Gaussian distribution. In order to reduce the detrimental effect of noise, a likelihood correction feature is proposed to tune the marginal probability distribution of each decision variable. The EDA is subsequently hybridized with a particle swarm optimization algorithm in a discrete domain to improve its search ability. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is examined via eight benchmark instances with different characteristics and shapes of the Pareto optimal front. The scalability, hybridization, and computational time are rigorously studied. Comparative studies show that the proposed approach outperforms other state of the art algorithms.
Jets and Topography: Jet Transitions and the Impact on Transport in the Antarctic Circumpolar Current
Authors: Thompson Andrew F. , Sallée Jean-Baptiste
Published: January 2012

The Southern Ocean’s Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) naturally lends itself to interpretations using a zonally averaged framework. Yet, navigation around steep and complicated bathymetric obstacles suggests that local dynamics may be far removed from those described by zonally symmetric models. In this study, both observational and numerical results indicate that zonal asymmetries, in the form of topography, impact global flow structure and transport properties.

The conclusions are based on a suite of more than 1.5 million virtual drifter trajectories advected using a satellite altimetry–derived surface velocity field spanning 17 years. The focus is on sites of “cross front” transport as defined by movement across selected sea surface height contours that correspond to jets along most of the ACC. Cross-front exchange is localized in the lee of bathymetric features with more than 75% of crossing events occurring in regions corresponding to only 20% of the ACC’s zonal extent.

These observations motivate a series of numerical experiments using a two-layer quasigeostrophic model with simple, zonally asymmetric topography, which often produces transitions in the front structure along the channel. Significantly, regimes occur where the equilibrated number of coherent jets is a function of longitude and transport barriers are not periodic. Jet reorganization is carried out by eddy flux divergences acting to both accelerate and decelerate the mean flow of the jets. Eddy kinetic energy is amplified downstream of topography due to increased baroclinicity related to topographic steering. The combination of high eddy kinetic energy and recirculation features enhances particle exchange. These results stress the complications in developing consistent circumpolar definitions of the ACC fronts.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Figitumumab, a Monoclonal Antibody Targeting the Insulin‐Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor, in Healthy Participants
Authors: Yin Donghua , Sleight Barbara , Alvey Christine , Hansson Arne G. , Bello Akintunde
Published: January 2012

This study determined the pharmacokinetics (PK) of figitumumab and its effects on insulin‐like growth factor (IGF) axis‐related biomarkers, following a single intravenous dose (10 [n = 16] and 20 [n = 12] mg/kg) in healthy adults. Serial blood sampling for PK and biomarkers was conducted up to 84 days postdose. A dose increase from 10 to 20 mg/kg led to 1.9‐ and 2.4‐fold increases in mean Cmax and AUC∞, respectively. Median disposition half‐life was 21.1 and 27.8 days at 10 and 20 mg/kg, respectively. At 10 and 20 mg/kg, figitumumab increased total IGF‐1, free IGF‐1, IGF binding protein (IGFBP)–3, and insulin by 4.1‐ and 4.8‐, 8.3‐ and 12.1‐, 2.4‐ and 2.9‐, and 7.3‐ and 9.8‐fold, respectively; increases were sustained throughout the 84‐day period. There was a slight and transient elevation in IGF‐2. Mean plasma glucose increased by 18% and 16% at 10 and 20 mg/kg, respectively. Most treatment‐related adverse events were mild in severity; the most common included dry eye (n = 9) and ocular hyperemia (n = 9) in the 20‐mg/kg group. No antidrug antibodies were detected. Overall, figitumumab (10 or 20 mg/kg) demonstrated PK properties typical of IgG2 antibodies and produced substantial and sustained increases in IGF‐1 (total and free), IGFBP‐3, and insulin.
Endoscopic vs Transfacial Resection of Sinonasal Adenocarcinomas
Authors: Vergez Sebastien , Martin‐Dupont Nathalie , Lepage Benoit , De Bonnecaze Guillaume , Decotte Anne , Serrano Elie
Published: January 2012

Objectives

Compare the survival and the complication rates of 2 comparable groups of patients who underwent either endoscopic or transfacial resection of a sinonasal adenocarcinoma.

Study Design

Historical cohort study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Twenty‐four patients with sinonasal adenocarcinomas who recently underwent an endoscopy (the ENDO group, 1999‐2009) were compared with 24 patients who underwent a lateral rhinotomy procedure (the LR group, 1993‐2007). The present retrospective study included patients who would have had an endoscopic resection in 2011.

Results

The groups were comparable in terms of age and sex (P =. 49), as well as tumor stages; 43 of the 48 patients had undergone postoperative radiotherapy. There were 13 T1‐T2 and 11 T3‐T4 tumors in the ENDO group compared with 12 T1‐T2 and 12 T3‐T4 tumors in the LR group (P =. 77). The mean length of follow‐up was 38 months for the ENDO group and 89 for the LR group. The overall survival and recurrence‐free rates were not significantly different (P =. 3 and P =. 87, respectively). The median duration of hospitalization was significantly shorter in the ENDO group than in the LR group (4 vs 8 days, P <. 0001). The rate of early complications was identical in both groups (12.5%).

Conclusion

The endoscopic approach is a safe and effective treatment in selected sinonasal adenocarcinoma cases. The early oncological outcome and morbidity associated with the endoscopic approach were comparable with a transfacial approach. Hospitalization was significantly reduced by the endoscopic approach. Although the endoscopic approach is less invasive, it requires an optimal preoperative imaging protocol and an experienced surgical team.
Quantifying Osteotome Sharpness
Authors: Ransom Evan R. , Antunes Marcelo B. , Bloom Jason D. , Becker Daniel G.
Published: January 2012

Objective

(1) To develop a method for quantification of osteotome sharpness in a rhinoplasty model, using artificial bone; (2) to demonstrate changes in osteotome sharpness over multiple uses; and (3) to compare osteotomes from different manufacturers in terms of sharpness and cost.

Study Design

Prospective surgical model.

Setting

Academic hospital and engineering research facility.

Methods

Osteotomes were used to make 4‐cm cuts through 4‐mm wedges of artificial bone. Sharpness was assessed at baseline and following 1, 4, 7, and 10 uses by measuring the load required to cut a #2 Prolene suture. Changes in sharpness from baseline were measured over time, and comparison of manufacturers was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Cost per use was computed for each osteotome.

Results

Five osteotomes were tested (Biomet, Black & Black, Miltex, NexEdge, Storz). At baseline, the Storz osteotome was sharpest (1.74 lb, P <. 001), followed by Miltex and Biomet (2.50 lb, 2.68 lb) and NexEdge and Black & Black (3.48 lb, 3.40 lb). All osteotomes except NexEdge (P =. 098) demonstrated significant decreases in sharpness over time (P =. 02 to P <. 001), although relative changes and absolute sharpness varied greatly. ANOVA demonstrated Storz to be significantly sharper at all time points (P <. 001). Storz and Miltex were superior in cost‐per‐use analysis.

Conclusion

Sharp osteotomes are important in cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty. Instruments may appear the same but can be quite dissimilar in efficacy and cost. Indeed, relative efficacy has not been previously tested. Quantitative analysis performance and cost‐effectiveness analyses are reported here and can assist the surgeon in selection and maintenance of instruments.
Pretreatment with CO-releasing molecules suppresses hepcidin expression during inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress through inhibition of the STAT3 and CREBH pathways
Authors: Shin Da-Yong , Chung Jihwa , Joe Yeonsoo , Pae Hyun-Ock , Chang Ki Churl , Cho Gyeong Jae , Ryter Stefan W. , Chung Hun-Taeg
Published: January 2012

The circulating peptide hormone hepcidin maintains systemic iron homeostasis. Hepcidin production increases during inflammation and as a result of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Elevated hepcidin levels decrease dietary iron absorption and promote iron sequestration in reticuloendothelial macrophages. Furthermore, increased plasma hepcidin levels cause hypoferremia and the anemia associated with chronic diseases. The signal transduction pathways that regulate hepcidin during inflammation and ER stress include the IL-6–dependent STAT-3 pathway and the unfolded protein response–associated cyclic AMP response element-binding protein-H (CREBH) pathway, respectively. We show that carbon monoxide (CO) suppresses hepcidin expression elicited by IL-6– and ER-stress agents by inhibiting STAT-3 phosphorylation and CREBH maturation, respectively. The inhibitory effect of CO on IL-6–inducible hepcidin expression is dependent on the suppressor of cytokine signaling-3 (SOCS-3) protein. Induction of ER stress in mice resulted in increased hepatic and serum hepcidin. CO administration inhibited ER-stress–induced hepcidin expression in vivo. Furthermore, ER stress caused iron accumulation in splenic macrophages, which could be prevented by CO. Our findings suggest novel anti-inflammatory therapeutic applications for CO, as well as therapeutic targets for the amelioration of anemia in the hypoferremic condition associated with chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases.
Extensive gene deletions in Japanese patients with Diamond-Blackfan anemia
Authors: Kuramitsu Madoka , Sato-Otsubo Aiko , Morio Tomohiro , Takagi Masatoshi , Toki Tsutomu , Terui Kiminori , Wang RuNan , Kanno Hitoshi , Ohga Shouichi , Ohara Akira , Kojima Seiji , Kitoh Toshiyuki , Goi Kumiko , Kudo Kazuko , Matsubayashi Tadashi , Mizue Nobuo , Ozeki Michio , Masumi Atsuko , Momose Haruka , Takizawa Kazuya , Mizukami Takuo , Yamaguchi Kazunari , Ogawa Seishi , Ito Etsuro , Hamaguchi Isao
Published: January 2012

Fifty percent of Diamond-Blackfan anemia (DBA) patients possess mutations in genes coding for ribosomal proteins (RPs). To identify new mutations, we investigated large deletions in the RP genes RPL5, RPL11, RPL35A, RPS7, RPS10, RPS17, RPS19, RPS24, and RPS26. We developed an easy method based on quantitative-PCR in which the threshold cycle correlates to gene copy number. Using this approach, we were able to diagnose 7 of 27 Japanese patients (25.9%) possessing mutations that were not detected by sequencing. Among these large deletions, similar results were obtained with 6 of 7 patients screened with a single nucleotide polymorphism array. We found an extensive intragenic deletion in RPS19, including exons 1-3. We also found 1 proband with an RPL5 deletion, 1 patient with an RPL35A deletion, 3 with RPS17 deletions, and 1 with an RPS19 deletion. In particular, the large deletions in the RPL5 and RPS17 alleles are novel. All patients with a large deletion had a growth retardation phenotype. Our data suggest that large deletions in RP genes comprise a sizable fraction of DBA patients in Japan. In addition, our novel approach may become a useful tool for screening gene copy numbers of known DBA genes.
Microscale functional cytomics for studying hematologic cancers
Authors: Young Edmond W. K. , Pak Chorom , Kahl Brad S. , Yang David T. , Callander Natalie S. , Miyamoto Shigeki , Beebe David J.
Published: January 2012

An important problem in translational cancer research is our limited ability to functionally characterize behaviors of primary patient cancer cells and associated stromal cell types, and relate mechanistic understanding to therapy selection. Functional analyses of primary samples face at least 3 major challenges: limited availability of primary samples for testing, paucity of functional information extracted from samples, and lack of functional methods accessible to many researchers. We developed a microscale cell culture platform that overcomes these limitations, especially for hematologic cancers. A key feature of the platform is the ability to compartmentalize small populations of adherent and nonadherent cells in controlled microenvironments that can better reflect physiological conditions and enable cell-cell interaction studies. Custom image analysis was developed to measure cell viability and protein subcellular localizations in single cells to provide insights into heterogeneity of cellular responses. We validated our platform by assessing viability and nuclear translocations of NF-κB and STAT3 in multiple myeloma cells exposed to different conditions, including cocultured bone marrow stromal cells. We further assessed its utility by analyzing NF-κB activation in a primary chronic lymphocytic leukemia patient sample. Our platform can be applied to myriad biological questions, enabling high-content functional cytomics of primary hematologic malignancies.
Asthma and coagulation
Authors: de Boer J. Daan , Majoor Christof J. , van 't Veer Cornelis , Bel Elisabeth H. D. , van der Poll Tom
Published: January 2012

Asthma is a chronic airway disease characterized by paroxysmal airflow obstruction evoked by irritative stimuli on a background of allergic lung inflammation. Currently, there is no cure for asthma, only symptomatic treatment. In recent years, our understanding of the involvement of coagulation and anticoagulant pathways, the fibrinolytic system, and platelets in the pathophysiology of asthma has increased considerably. Asthma is associated with a procoagulant state in the bronchoalveolar space, further aggravated by impaired local activities of the anticoagulant protein C system and fibrinolysis. Protease-activated receptors have been implicated as the molecular link between coagulation and allergic inflammation in asthma. This review summarizes current knowledge of the impact of the disturbed hemostatic balance in the lungs on asthma severity and manifestations and identifies new possible targets for asthma treatment.
A metabolomic strategy defines the regulation of lipid content and global metabolism by Δ9 desaturases in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Castro Cecilia , Sar Funda , Shaw W Robert , Mishima Masanori , Miska Eric A , Griffin Julian L
Published: January 2012

Background

Caenorhabditis elegans provides a genetically tractable model organism to investigate the network of genes involved in fat metabolism and how regulation is perturbed to produce the complex phenotype of obesity. C. elegans possess the full range of desaturases, including the Δ9 desaturases expressed by fat-5, fat-6 and fat-7. They regulate the biosynthesis of monounsaturated fatty acids, used for the synthesis of lipids including phospholipids, triglycerides and cholesteryl esters.

Results

Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy were used to define the metabolome of all the possible knock-outs for the Δ9 desaturases, including for the first time intact lipids. Despite the genes having similar enzymatic roles, excellent discrimination was achievable for all single and viable double mutants highlighting the distinctive roles of fat-6 and fat-7, both expressing steroyl-CoA desaturases. The metabolomic changes extend to aqueous metabolites demonstrating the influence Δ9 desaturases have on regulating global metabolism and highlighting how comprehensive metabolomics is more discriminatory than classically used dyes for fat staining.

Conclusions

The propagation of metabolic changes across the network of metabolism demonstrates that modification of the Δ9 desaturases places C.elegans into a catabolic state compared with wildtype controls.
Risk factors associated with fatal pulmonary hemorrhage in locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer treated with chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Ito Masami , Niho Seiji , Nihei Keiji , Yoh Kiyotaka , Ohmatsu Hironobu , Ohe Yuichiro
Published: January 2012

Background

The purpose of this study was to identify the risk factors associated with fatal pulmonary hemorrhage (PH) in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), treated with chemoradiotherapy.

Methods

The medical records of 583 patients with locally advanced NSCLC, who were treated with chemoradiotherapy between July 1992 and December 2009 were reviewed. Fatal PH was defined as PH leading to death within 24 h of its onset. Tumor cavitation size was defined by the cavitation diameter/tumor diameter ratio and was classified as minimum (< 0.25), minor (≥ 0.25, but < 0.5), and major (≥ 0.5).

Results

Of the 583 patients, 2.1% suffered a fatal PH. The numbers of patients with minimum, minor, and major cavitations were 13, 11, and 14, respectively. Among the 38 patients with tumor cavitation, all 3 patients who developed fatal PH had major cavitations. On multivariate analysis, the presence of baseline major cavitation (odds ratio, 17.878), and a squamous cell histology (odds ratio, 5.491) proved to be independent significant risk factors for fatal PH. Interestingly, all patients with fatal PH and baseline major cavitation were found to have tumors with squamous cell histology, and the occurrence of fatal PH in patients having both risk factors was 33.3%.

Conclusions

Patients at high risk of fatal PH could be identified using a combination of independent risk factors.
Enterovirus 71 viral capsid protein linear epitopes: Identification and characterization
Authors: Gao Fan , Wang Yi-Ping , Mao Qun-Ying , Yao Xin , Liu Shuang , Li Feng-Xiang , Zhu Feng-Cai , Yang Jing-Yu , Liang Zheng-Lun , Lu Feng-Min , Wang Jun-Zhi
Published: January 2012

Background

To characterize the human humoral immune response against enterovirus 71 (EV71) infection and map human epitopes on the viral capsid proteins.

Methods

A series of 256 peptides spanning the capsid proteins (VP1, VP2, VP3) of BJ08 strain (genomic C4) were synthesized. An indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was carried out to detect anti-EV71 IgM and IgG in sera of infected children in acute or recovery phase. The partially overlapped peptides contained 12 amino acids and were coated in the plate as antigen (0.1 μg/μl). Sera from rabbits immunized with inactivated BJ08 virus were also used to screen the peptide panel.

Results

A total of 10 human anti-EV71 IgM epitopes (vp1-14 in VP1; vp2-6, 21, 40 and 50 in VP2 and vp3-10, 12, 15, 24 and 75 in VP3) were identified in acute phase sera. In contrast, only one anti-EV71 IgG epitope in VP1 (vp1-15) was identified in sera of recovery stage. Four rabbit anti-EV71 IgG epitopes (vp1-14, 31, 54 and 71) were identified and mapped to VP1.

Conclusion

These data suggested that human IgM epitopes were mainly mapped to VP2 and VP3 with multi-epitope responses occurred at acute infection, while the only IgG epitope located on protein VP1 was activated in recovery phase sera. The dynamic changes of humoral immune response at different stages of infection may have public health significance in evaluation of EV71 vaccine immunogenicity and the clinical application of diagnostic reagents.
Intrastriatal convection-enhanced delivery results in widespread perivascular distribution in a pre-clinical model
Authors: Barua Neil U , Bienemann Alison S , Hesketh Shirley , Wyatt Marcella J , Castrique Emma , Love Seth , Gill Steven S
Published: January 2012

Background

Convection-enhanced delivery (CED), a direct method for drug delivery to the brain through intraparenchymal microcatheters, is a promising strategy for intracerebral pharmacological therapy. By establishing a pressure gradient at the tip of the catheter, drugs can be delivered in uniform concentration throughout a large volume of interstitial fluid. However, the variables affecting perivascular distribution of drugs delivered by CED are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to determine whether the perivascular distribution of solutes delivered by CED into the striatum of rats is affected by the molecular weight of the infused agent, by co-infusion of vasodilator, alteration of infusion rates or use of a ramping regime. We also wanted to make a preliminary comparison of the distribution of solutes with that of nanoparticles.

Methods

We analysed the perivascular distribution of 4, 10, 20, 70, 150 kDa fluorescein-labelled dextran and fluorescent nanoparticles at 10 min and 3 h following CED into rat striatum. We investigated the effect of local vasodilatation, slow infusion rates and ramping on the perivascular distribution of solutes. Co-localisation with perivascular basement membranes and vascular endothelial cells was identified by immunohistochemistry. The uptake of infusates by perivascular macrophages was quantified using stereological methods.

Results

Widespread perivascular distribution and macrophage uptake of fluorescein-labelled dextran was visible 10 min after cessation of CED irrespective of molecular weight. However, a significantly higher proportion of perivascular macrophages had taken up 4, 10 and 20 kDa fluorescein-labelled dextran than 150 kDa dextran (p < 0.05, ANOVA). Co-infusion with vasodilator, slow infusion rates and use of a ramping regime did not alter the perivascular distribution. CED of fluorescent nanoparticles indicated that particles co-localise with perivascular basement membranes throughout the striatum but, unlike soluble dextrans, are not taken up by perivascular macrophages after 3 h.

Conclusions

This study suggests that widespread perivascular distribution and interaction with perivascular macrophages is likely to be an inevitable consequence of CED of solutes. The potential consequences of perivascular distribution of therapeutic agents, and in particular cytotoxic chemotherapies, delivered by CED must be carefully considered to ensure safe and effective translation to clinical trials.
Desiccation induces viable but Non-Culturable cells in Sinorhizobium meliloti 1021
Authors: Vriezen Jan AC , de Bruijn Frans J , Nüsslein Klaus R
Published: January 2012

Sinorhizobium meliloti is a microorganism commercially used in the production of e.g. Medicago sativa seed inocula. Many inocula are powder-based and production includes a drying step. Although S. meliloti survives drying well, the quality of the inocula is reduced during this process. In this study we determined survival during desiccation of the commercial strains 102F84 and 102F85 as well as the model strain USDA1021.

The survival of S. meliloti 1021 was estimated during nine weeks at 22% relative humidity. We found that after an initial rapid decline of colony forming units, the decline slowed to a steady 10-fold reduction in colony forming units every 22 days. In spite of the reduction in colony forming units, the fraction of the population identified as viable (42-54%) based on the Baclight live/dead stain did not change significantly over time. This change in the ability of viable cells to form colonies shows (i) an underestimation of the survival of rhizobial cells using plating methods, and that (ii) in a part of the population desiccation induces a Viable But Non Culturable (VBNC)-like state, which has not been reported before. Resuscitation attempts did not lead to a higher recovery of colony forming units indicating the VBNC state is stable under the conditions tested. This observation has important consequences for the use of rhizobia. Finding methods to resuscitate this fraction may increase the quality of powder-based seed inocula.
99mTc-MAG3 scintigraphy for the longitudinal follow-up of kidney function in a mouse model of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Herrler Tanja , Wang Hao , Tischer Anne , Bartenstein Peter , Jauch Karl-Walter , Guba Markus , Diemling Markus , Nimmon Cyril , Hacker Marcus
Published: January 2012

Background

Experimental models are essential tools in the development and evaluation of novel treatment options, but the preclinical model of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury is limited to the retrieval of (very) early functional data, leaving the pivotal long-term outcome unknown. The present study applies technetium-99m-mercapto-acetyl-tri-glycine [99mTc-MAG3] scintigraphy for the longitudinal follow-up examination of long-term kidney function after renal ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Methods

Unilateral warm ischemia was induced in scid beige mice by vascular clamping of the kidney hilum for 40 min. 99mTc-MAG3 scintigraphy was performed prior to injury, 8 and 14 days post ischemia. The fractional uptake rate [FUR] was calculated from scintigraphy data as a measure of renal clearance.

Results

FUR demonstrated a significant functional impairment of the ischemic kidney 8 and 14 days after injury (P < 0.05 vs. baseline), while contralateral non-ischemic kidneys showed no significant changes. In histological analysis, ischemic kidneys exhibited tubular dilatation and cytoplasmic degeneration as signs of hypoxia without any evidence for necrosis.

Conclusions

FUR enables the detection of renal dysfunction and longitudinal long-term follow-up examination in the same individual. Our model may facilitate preclinical therapy evaluation for the identification of effective renoprotective therapies.
Profiles of Receptive and Expressive Language Abilities in Boys With Comorbid Fragile X Syndrome and Autism
Authors: McDuffie Andrea , Kover Sara , Abbeduto Leonard , Lewis Pamela , Brown Ted
Published: January 2012

The authors examined receptive and expressive language profiles for a group of verbal male children and adolescents who had fragile X syndrome along with varying degrees of autism symptoms. A categorical approach for assigning autism diagnostic classification, based on the combined use of the Autism Diagnostic Interview—Revised and the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS), and a continuous approach for representing autism symptom severity, based on ADOS severity scores, were used in 2 separate sets of analyses. All analyses controlled for nonverbal IQ and chronological age. Nonverbal IQ accounted for significant variance in all language outcomes with large effect sizes. Results of the categorical analyses failed to reveal an effect of diagnostic group (fragile X syndrome–autism, fragile X syndrome–no autism) on standardized language test performance. Results of the continuous analyses revealed a negative relationship between autism symptom severity and all of the standardized language measures. Implications for representing autism symptoms in fragile X syndrome research are considered.
Grazing-angle Incidence X-ray Diffraction by the Si1-α(x)-β(x)Geβ(x)Cβ(x)/Si Heterojunction where the Germanium and the Carbon Concentrations are Periodically Varying along the Flat Layer Surface
Authors: Bezirganyan Hayk H. , Bezirganyan Siranush E. , Bezirganyan Hakob P. , Bezirganyan Petros H.
Published: January 2012

Presented theoretical paper concerns the investigation of SiGeC/Si heterojunction by the Grazing-angle Incidence X-ray Diffraction (GIXD) method. We consider a possibility in principal of the GIXD by the specific long-range harmonic variations of the germanium and carbon compositions in the thin SiGeC layer. Evaluation of the theoretically calculated coherent part of x-radiation scattered by the SiGeC layer points the way to the experimental direct investigations of the long-period structured intermediate transformation states of SiGeC layer that emerge owing to inhomogeneity of the strain field along the heterojunction surface.
Hegel's Spectre on Indian Thought and its God-in-Nothingness
Authors: Bilimoria Purushottama
Published: January 2012

This review discusses Arvind-Pal S. Mandair’s Religion and the Specter of the West: Sikhism, India, Postcoloniality, and the Politics of Translation (hereafter RSW), published in 2009 by Columbia University Press.
Análise do retorno dos investimentos socioambientais das empresas brasileiras
Authors: Orellano Verônica Ines Fernandez , Quiota Silvia
Published: January 2012

Este estudo investiga a relação entre os investimentos uma relação de causalidade entre investimento social socioambientais e o desempenho financeiro das em-interno e desempenho financeiro, pois os investimenpresas brasileiras de 2001 a 2007. As regressões esti-tos sociais voltados para os empregados da empresa madas com base no modelo de efeitos fixos analisam têm um efeito positivo sobre a variável Return on a correlação entre as variáveis de desempenho socio-Assets (ROA). Essa conclusão está de acordo com os ambiental e financeiro, enquanto as estimações usando resultados obtidos por Laan e outros (2008), os quais modelos de variável instrumental analisam a relação indicam que investimentos realizados nas demandas de causalidade entre esses indicadores. Os resultados sociais de stakeholders primários (empregados, conrevelam uma correlação positiva entre investimento sumidores e investidores) contribuem para melhorar socioambiental e desempenho financeiro, sobretudo o desempenho financeiro, o que não acontece com o investimento social interno. Além disso, revelam investimentos voltados para stakeholders secundários.
Validación del cuestionario de auto-reporte de comportamiento antisocial en adolescentes: CACSA
Authors: Bañares Paula Alarcón , Pérez-Luco Ricardo , Salvo Sonia , Roa Gloria , Jaramillo Katherine , Sanhueza Carla
Published: January 2012

El estudio tiene por objetivo presentar la validación de un instrumento formulado racionalmente para evaluar, mediante auto-reporte, el comportamiento social en adolescentes chilenos (CACSA) y describir el comportamiento social de dos grupos: adolescentes escolarizados (N=1914) y adolescentes infractores de ley (N=264). El cuestionario posee 56 ítemes que exploran tres dimensiones generales, a) Comportamiento Prosocial (CPRO), b) Comportamiento Antisocial Total (CAT); y c) Víctima de Abuso de Poder (VAP); CAT contiene seis dimensiones específicas: Delitos (D), Transgresiones Contra la Propiedad (TPRO), Transgresiones Contra las Personas (TPER), Comportamiento Abusivo con Pares (CAP), Consumo de Alcohol y Drogas (OHD); y Transgresiones Sociales Leves (TSL). El estudio incluye también una escala de deseabilidad social y otra actitudinal. Los resultados revelan importantes fortalezas psicométricas del instrumento y capacidad de discriminación entre adolescentes escolarizados e infractores de ley. Se discute la importancia de reconocer por auto-reporte la prevalencia de comportamientos antisociales y la relación entre conductas prosociales y antisociales en adolescentes chilenos.
A pesquisa educacional como atividade curricular na formação de licenciandos de química
Authors: Sangiogo Fábio André , Woyciechoswsky Raquel , Rosa Simone Albrecht da , Maldaner Otavio Aloísio
Published: January 2012

O artigo reflete sobre a atividade de pesquisa educacional desenvolvida no componente curricular Pesquisa em Ensino de Química II, um dos componentes de iniciação à pesquisa educacional no curso de Química-Licenciatura da UNIJUÍ. Licenciandos, por meio de questionário respondido por acadêmicos de Química e da terceira série do Ensino Médio, identificaram diferentes níveis de significação envolvendo conceitos científicos fundamentais na compreensão das transformações químicas e seus efeitos térmicos. As respostas foram agrupadas segundo sua semelhança, resultando na construção de quatro categorias de análise para ambos os grupos. Foram consultados, também, livros didáticos de química do Ensino Médio e do Ensino Superior, que abordam o tema investigado. Com base no relato da pesquisa desenvolvida por licenciandos, conclui-se que a iniciação à pesquisa educacional pode ser realizada como atividade curricular, de modo a potencializar a formação do professor também como pesquisador de sua prática.
Educação ambiental, sustentabilidade e ciência: o papel da mídia na difusão de conhecimentos científicos
Authors: Sulaiman Samia Nascimento
Published: January 2012

São problemas de ordem ambiental: aquecimento global, mudanças climáticas, escassez de recursos naturais, resíduo. Em resposta, têm sido gerados novos saberes no campo da ciência, tecnologia e educação chamada ambiental de modo a se proporem alternativas para que o homem possa relacionar-se com o ambiente de maneira sustentável, e a mídia tem contribuído sobremaneira na veiculação desses conhecimentos. Na imprensa escrita, revistas e jornais têm criado seções, suplementos, cadernos tematizando educação e meio ambiente. Produzida pela revista Carta Capital, desde 2006, a revista Carta na Escola busca difundir "atualidades em sala de aula", e de setembro de 2007 a agosto de 2008 publicou a série "Sustentabilidade na Escola", com dez artigos relacionando sustentabilidade, ciência e educação. A partir do referencial teórico-metodológico da análise dialógica do discurso, este artigo analisa o discurso da sustentabilidade baseado na difusão de conhecimentos científicos, proposto nessa série, e sua limitação enquanto estratégia de educação ambiental.
Seroprevalence of Rickettsia bellii and Rickettsia felis in dogs, São José dos Pinhais, State of Paraná, Brazil
Authors: Fortes Fernanda Silva , Silveira Iara , Moraes-Filho Jonas , Leite Ronaldo Viana , Bonacim José Edivaldo , Biondo Alexander Welker , Labruna Marcelo Bahia , Molento Marcelo Beltrão
Published: January 2012

Brazilian spotted fever (BSF) is a vector-borne zoonosis caused by Rickettsia rickettsii bacteria. Dogs can be host sentinels for this bacterium. The aim of the study was to determine the presence of antibodies against Rickettsia spp. in dogs from the city of São José dos Pinhais, State of Paraná, Southern Brazil, where a human case of BSF was first reported in the state. Between February 2006 and July 2007, serum samples from 364 dogs were collected and tested at 1:64 dilutions by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) against R. rickettsii and R. parkeri. All sera that reacted at least to one of Rickettsia species were tested against the six main Rickettsia species identified in Brazil: R. rickettsii, R. parkeri, R. bellii, R. rhipicephali, R. amblyommii and R. felis. Sixteen samples (4.4%) reacted to at least one Rickettsia species. Among positive animals, two dogs (15.5%) showed suggestive titers for R. bellii exposure. One sample had a homologous reaction to R. felis, a confirmed human pathogen. Although Rickettsia spp. circulation in dogs in the area studied may be considered at low prevalence, suggesting low risk of human infection, the present data demonstrate for the first time the exposure of dogs to R. bellii and R. felis in Southern Brazil.
Occurrence and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. isolated from domestic animals in a rural area surrounding Atlantic dry forest fragments in Teodoro Sampaio municipality, State of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: Sevá Anaiá da Paixão , Funada Mikaela Renata , Souza Sheila de Oliveira , Nava Alessandra , Richtzenhain Leonardo José , Soares Rodrigo Martins
Published: January 2012

The aim of this study was to assess the occurrence of Cryptosporidium in domestic animals in rural properties surrounding rain forest fragments within the municipality of Teodoro Sampaio, southeastern Brazil. Conventional sucrose flotation method followed by molecular characterization of the parasites by sequencing PCR products amplified from SSU rRNA gene were used. Stool samples were collected from domestic animals raised as pets and livestock in all rural properties surrounding three forest fragments. Samples from cattle (197), equine (63), pigs (25), sheep (11), and dogs (28) were collected from 98 rural properties. The frequency of occurrence of Cryptosporidium within each animal species was 3.0% (6/197) among cattle and 10.7% (3/28) among dogs. Cryptosporidium was not detected in stool samples from equine, sheep, and pigs. All sequences obtained from the six samples of calves showed molecular identity with Cryptosporidium andersoni while all sequences from dog samples were similar to C. canis. The frequency of occurrence of Cryptosporidium in these domestic animal species was low. The absence of C. parvum in the present study suggests that the zoonotic cycle of cryptosporidiosis may not be relevant in the region studied. The presence of Cryptosporidium species seldom described in humans may be, otherwise, important for the wild fauna as these animals are a source of infection and dissemination of this protozoan to other animal species. The impact and magnitude of infection by C. andersoni in wild ruminants and C. canis in wild canids have to be assessed in future studies to better understand the actual importance of these species in this region.
Toxoplasma gondii antibodies on domiciled cats from Lages municipality, Santa Catarina State, Brazil
Authors: Rosa Luciana Dalla , Moura Anderson Barbosa de , Trevisani Natascha , Medeiros Alessandra Pereira , Sartor Amélia Aparecida , Souza Antonio Pereira de , Bellato Valdomiro
Published: January 2012

Sera were collected from 300 domiciled cats from the municipality of Lages, Southern Brazil, to determine the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies and risk factors associated. Tests for T. gondii antibodies were performed using indirect immunoﬂuorescent antibody test (IFAT). Positive reactions with titers >1:64 were found in 43 (14.33%) cats. A significant number of seropositive cats were >6 month old (p = 0.03758) and had access to the streets or/and rural areas (p = 0.04185). The results indicate that T. gondii is widespread in cats in Lages with a prevalence of 14.33%.
Perspectives for the use of plant extracts to control the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus
Authors: Borges Lígia Miranda Ferreira , Sousa Lorena Alessandra Dias de , Barbosa Carolina da Silva
Published: January 2012

The evolution of resistance of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus to synthetic acaricides has given rise to the need for new scientific investigations on alternative ways to control this tick. In this regard, various studies on plants have been developed in an attempt to find extracts with acaricidal properties. Evaluations on plant extracts for controlling R. (B.) microplus have grown intensely over the last decade. There are many advantages from using plant extracts: for example, they can be used in organic cattle farming or even replace synthetic acaricides and they are associated with lower environmental and food contamination, slower development of resistance and lower toxicity to animals and humans. In vitro studies on plant extracts have shown promising results, but most of these extracts have not been tested on animals to validate their use. Difficulties in preparing proper formulations, differences in the chemical composition of plants of the same species due to extrinsic and intrinsic factors and sparse information on active acaricide compounds are hindrances that need to be addressed in order to enable progress within this scientific field.
Systemic inflammatory response indicators in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) experimentally infected with sporulated oocysts of Eimeria stiedai (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae)
Authors: Freitas Fagner Luiz da Costa , Yamamoto Beatriz Lie , Freitas Wagner Luiz da Costa , Fagliari Jose Jurandir , Almeida Katyane de Sousa , Machado Rosangela Zacarias , Machado Celio Raimundo
Published: January 2012

Hemograms and acute-phase proteins in adult male New Zealand White rabbits that had been experimentally infected orally with sporulated oocysts of Eimeria stiedai were evaluated over a 28-day period. Fifty animals were used, divided into two groups: group A infected with 1 × 10(4) sporulated oocysts of E. stiedai and group B inoculated with distilled water. On the seventh day after infection, the infected animals presented anemia and leukocytosis with neutrophilia and monocytosis. Protein fractionation by means of electrophoresis identified 19 acute-phase proteins with molecular weights ranging from 24 to 238 kD. Ceruloplasmin, transferrin and haptoglobin showed high levels on the seventh day after infection, with gradual increases in their concentrations until the end of the experimental period. Thus, from the data of the present study, E. stiedai is considered to be a pyogenic etiological agent for which the infection level can be monitored through the leukocyte count and serum concentrations of ceruloplasmin, transferrin and haptoglobin, and these can be recommended as complementary tests.
Strategic control of cattle ticks: milk producers' perceptions
Authors: Amaral Maria Alice Zacarias do , Rocha Christiane Maria Barcellos Magalhães da , Faccini João Luiz , Furlong John , Monteiro Caio Márcio de Oliveira , Prata Márcia Cristina de Azevedo
Published: January 2012

In order to evaluate milk producers' knowledge about tests on tick sensitivity to acaricides, efficiency tests and strategic control, questionnaires were delivered to 670 producers. From these, 163 responses were received. These producers had sent ingurgitated female ticks to be subjected to tests on tick sensitivity to acaricides at Embrapa between 2001 and 2005. Most of the completed questionnaires came from the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. After descriptive analysis and correlation of variables, it was found that 48.5% of the properties owned herds of up to 100 head of cattle and 57.3% of the producers belonged to a cooperative. Among the respondents, 157 (98.7%) applied the acaricide indicated by the efficiency test, and 144 (92.9%) said that they applied strategic control but incorrectly. There was improvement in some control stages. However, only 12 (7%) showed comprehension of all the stages of strategic control. It was concluded that there is a need for continuing assistance, so as to achieve effective improvement in controlling Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus.
Risk factors and clinical disorders of canine ehrlichiosis in the South of Bahia, Brazil
Authors: Carlos Renata Santiago Alberto , Carvalho Fábio Santos , Wenceslau Amauri Arias , Almosny Nadia Regina Pereira , Albuquerque George Rêgo
Published: January 2012

The aim of this work was to study the clinical disorders and risk factors of canine ehrlichiosis in Ilhéus and Itabuna, Bahia, and compare different diagnostic methods. Blood samples were collected from 200 dogs. Each dog was clinically examined. A questionnaire was used to evaluate the risk factors. The blood samples were analyzed using the Dot-ELISA test; hematometry, platelet counts and searches for morulae on blood smears were performed. Nested PCR was carried out on 50 serologically positive samples and 50 negative samples. Three positive PCRs were sequenced. Thirty-six percent were serologically positivity and 5.5% from blood smears. The animals were anemic and thrombocytopenic. Presence of ticks and living in areas on the urban periphery were considered to be risk factors (p < 0.05). Nested PCR identified 11 positive dogs of which nine were serologically positive and two were negative. The DNA sequencing was consistent with the presence of Ehrlichia canis.