bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CD8+ T Cells Primed in the Periphery Provide Time-Bound Immune-Surveillance to the Central Nervous System
Authors: Young Kevin G. , MacLean Susanne , Dudani Renu , Krishnan Lakshmi , Sad Subash
Published: June 2011

After vaccination, memory CD8+ T cells migrate to different organs to mediate immune surveillance. In most nonlymphoid organs, following an infection, CD8+ T cells differentiate to become long-lived effector-memory cells, thereby providing long-term protection against a secondary infection. In this study, we demonstrated that Ag-specific CD8+ T cells that migrate to the mouse brain following a systemic Listeria infection do not display markers reminiscent of long-term memory cells. In contrast to spleen and other nonlymphoid organs, none of the CD8+ T cells in the brain reverted to a memory phenotype, and all of the cells were gradually eliminated. These nonmemory phenotype CD8+ T cells were found primarily within the choroid plexus, as well as in the cerebrospinal fluid-filled spaces. Entry of these CD8+ T cells into the brain was governed primarily by CD49d/VCAM-1, with the majority of entry occurring in the first week postinfection. When CD8+ T cells were injected directly into the brain parenchyma, cells that remained in the brain retained a highly activated (CD69hi) phenotype and were gradually lost, whereas those that migrated out to the spleen were CD69low and persisted long-term. These results revealed a mechanism of time-bound immune surveillance to the brain by CD8+ T cells that do not reside in the parenchyma.
Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 Inhibitors in the Next Horizon for Alzheimer′s Disease Treatment
Authors: Martinez Ana , Gil Carmen , Perez Daniel I.
Published: June 2011

Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK‐3), a proline/serine protein kinase ubiquitously expressed and involved in many cellular signaling pathways, plays a key role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer′s disease (AD) being probably the link between β‐amyloid and tau pathology. A great effort has recently been done in the discovery and development of different new molecules, of synthetic and natural origin, able to inhibit this enzyme, and several kinetics mechanisms of binding have been described. The small molecule called tideglusib belonging to the thiadiazolidindione family is currently on phase IIb clinical trials for AD. The potential risks and benefits of this new kind of disease modifying drugs for the future therapy of AD are discussed in this paper.
The Electrochemical Development of Pt(111) Stepped Surfaces and Its Influence on Methanol Electrooxidation
Authors: Teliz E. , Díaz V. , Faccio R. , Mombrú A. W. , Zinola C. F.
Published: June 2011

The progress in the preparation of new electrode surfaces by electrochemical treatments exhibiting high faradaic efficiencies towards industrial electrocatalytic processes has gained more attention in today's scientific community. Most of the papers report new catalysts dispersed on different substrates, but some fundamental studies required for electrochemical and physical characterizations are sometimes forgotten. In this paper, we make a full staging of two electrochemical treatments that can be conducted to enhance the electrocatalytic activity of platinum surfaces, such as, electrofacetting through square wave potential programs and constant cathodic polarizations in the net hydrogen evolution region. The cathodic treatment applied at −2 V clearly develops (111) stepped planes similarly to the electrofacetting performed after applying the square wave program between 1.40 V and 0.70 V at 2.5 kHz. The X-ray diffraction patterns of both surfaces as well as on other electrofacetted platinum electrodes are obtained for comparison purposes. Moreover, the electrocatalytic activity towards methanol electrooxidation also exhibits equivalent coulombic efficiencies and 200% higher than on polycrystalline platinum as demonstrated by linear sweep voltammetry and potentiostatic current decays.
Magnetic Nanoparticles Immobilization and Functionalization for Biosensor Applications
Authors: Mejri M. B. , Tlili A. , Abdelghani A.
Published: June 2011

We describe an approach forE. colibacteria detection using an electrochemical immunosensor. The immunosensor was based on functionalized magnetic nanoparticles immobilized onto bare gold electrode. Cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy was performed before and after magnetic nanoparticles deposition. The magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with anti-E. colipolyclonal antibody were used for bacteria detection. Lytic T4-phage was used to confirm the success recognition of bacteria with the developed immunosensor. The specificity of the immunosensor was tested againstEnterococcus faeciumbacteria. A limit detection of 103 CFU/mLE. colibacteria was obtained with a good reproducibility.
Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: Major Risk Factor in Patients with Hypertension: Update and Practical Clinical Applications
Authors: Katholi Richard E. , Couri Daniel M.
Published: June 2011

Left ventricular hypertrophy is a maladaptive response to chronic pressure overload and an important risk factor for atrial fibrillation, diastolic heart failure, systolic heart failure, and sudden death in patients with hypertension. Since not all patients with hypertension develop left ventricular hypertrophy, there are clinical findings that should be kept in mind that may alert the physician to the presence of left ventricular hypertrophy so a more definitive evaluation can be performed using an echocardiogram or cardiovascular magnetic resonance. Controlling arterial pressure, sodium restriction, and weight loss independently facilitate the regression of left ventricular hypertrophy. Choice of antihypertensive agents may be important when treating a patient with hypertensive left ventricular hypertrophy. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers followed by calcium channel antagonists most rapidly facilitate the regression of left ventricular hypertrophy. With the regression of left ventricular hypertrophy, diastolic function and coronary flow reserve usually improve, and cardiovascular risk decreases.
Fine-Needle Aspiration Biopsy of Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Related Hepatocellular Nodular Lesions in Cirrhosis: Controversies, Challenges, and Expectations
Authors: Wee Aileen
Published: June 2011

The role of hepatic fine-needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy has evolved. Advances in imaging modalities have obviated the need for tissue confirmation in most hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs). There is risk of needle-tract seeding. Increasingly, small nodules are being detected on ultrasound surveillance of high-risk patients. Diagnostic challenges associated with cirrhosis include distinction of benign hepatocellular nodules, namely, large regenerative nodules and dysplastic nodules, from reactive hepatocytes; and distinction of well-differentiated HCCs from benign hepatocellular nodules. This paper will discuss (i) controversies regarding preoperative/pretransplantation FNA diagnosis of HCC, (ii) update of biological evolution, nomenclature, and histopathologic criteria for diagnosis of precancerous nodules and small HCCs, and (iii) algorithmic approach to FNA diagnosis of hepatocellular nodules. Optimal results depend on dedicated radiologist-cytopathologist team, on-site cytology service; combined cytohistologic approach, immunohistochemistry, and clinicopathologic correlation. Hepatic FNA is likely to be incorporated as a point of care as we move towards personalized medicine.
Evaluation for Granulomatous Inflammation on Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology Using Special Stains
Authors: Majeed Muhammad Mudassar , Bukhari Mulazim Hussain
Published: June 2011

Background. Tuberculosis is the commonest infectious disease in the developing world. Many diagnostic tests are devised for its detection including direct smear examination. This study was designed to determine the frequency of cases positive for AFB and positive for fungus in patients diagnosed to have granulomatous inflammation on Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology using special stains. Materials and Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was done on 100 cases of granulomatous inflammation consistent with tuberculosis diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology at the Department of Pathology, King Edward Medical University, Lahore. After reporting granulomatous inflammation on Hematoxylin & Eosin staining of aspirates from FNAC, some unstained slides were subjected to special stains, like ZN, GMS, and PAS. Cases positive for AFB on ZN stain and fungus on GMS/PAS were noted down along with their frequency and percentages. Results. Forty-four cases (44%) of AFB positive smears were reported in granulomatous inflammation while only 5% cases of fungus were reported down. Cervical lymph nodes were the most commonly involved site (87%), and females were affected more (62%) than males. Most cases of AFB-positive smears were associated with caseation necrosis (93%). Conclusion. Special stains should be done on all granulomatous inflammation cases seen on FNAC for confirmation of TB and ruling out other infectious causes.
Laceration of the Iliac Vein in a Patient with a Femoral Catheter for Hemodialysis
Authors: Stolic Radojica V. , Milojevic Sanja P.
Published: June 2011

Although catheters are an ideal therapeutic treatment for all patients who need hemodialysis, their placement, use may be followed by certain complications. We present a case of iliac vein lacerations in the projection of the tip of a femoral catheter for hemodialysis in a 55-year-old patient.
Pilanesberg National Park, North West Province, South Africa: Uniting economic development with ecological design – A history, 1960s to 1984
Authors: Carruthers Jane
Published: June 2011

In the late 1970s, a ground-breaking project began in the Pilanesberg district in what is now the North West Province of South Africa to create a wildlife conservation and eco-tourism venture from degraded marginal farmland in an aesthetically attractive extinct volcanic crater. The establishment of this national park was innovative in a number of respects, including a partnership between landscape and ecological designers, local community development and participation, regional tourist satisfaction, trophy hunting, environmental education, ecological restoration, and wildlife conservation and management. This paper briefly explored the park’s early history, explaining its landscape, its early peopling and historical land use. The narrative then concentrated on the first five years of the park’s existence, from its inception in 1977, under the aegis of Agricor, Bophuthatswana’s rural development agency, to 1984, when responsibility for the park was given over to Bophuthatswana National Parks, a parastatal agency, and a new era began. The article contended that 1984 is an appropriate date on which to conclude the early history of the Pilanesberg National Park (PNP) because it was then that the experimental phase of the park ended: its infrastructure was sufficiently developed to offer a satisfactory visitor experience, the management plan was revised, its bureaucratic structures were consolidated and an attitude survey amongst the local community was undertaken. Embedding the originating period of the PNP in its historical, political and socio-economic context, the paper foregrounded those elements in the park’s beginnings that were new in the southern African protected area arena. Thus, elements that relate to socio-politics, landscape and ecological design and restoration, and early relations with neighbouring communities were emphasised. This paper has been written by an historian and is therefore conceptual and historical, conforming in language and structure to the humanities style (environmental history). It relies on published and unpublished literature and oral information and the critical evaluation of these sources.Conservation implications: The pioneering example of the PNP as a protected area is relevant to the field of conservation science because, as human population densities increase, as the tourism sector develops, as marginal farmland becomes available for new uses, and as it becomes important to include neighbouring communities in conservation activities, a study of this park’s early history and socio-political and economic context may be of assistance in the development of similar projects elsewhere in South Africa and beyond.
Controls on the movement and composition of firn air at the West Antarctic Ice Sheet Divide
Authors: Battle M. O. , Severinghaus J. P. , Sofen E. D. , Plotkin D. , Orsi A. J. , Aydin M. , Montzka S. A. , Sowers T. , Tans P. P.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. We sampled interstitial air from the perennial snowpack (firn) at a site near the West Antarctic Ice Sheet Divide (WAIS-D) and analyzed the air samples for a wide variety of gas species and their isotopes. We find only 1–2 m of convective influence in the shallow firn, gravitational enrichment of heavy species throughout the diffusive column in general agreement with theoretical expectations, a ~10 m thick lock-in zone beginning at ~67 m, and a total firn thickness consistent with predictions of Kaspers et al. (2004). Our modeling work shows that the air has an age spread (spectral width) of 4.8 yr for CO2 at the firn-ice transition. We also find that advection of firn air due to the 22 cm yr−1 ice-equivalent accumulation rate has a minor impact on firn air composition, causing changes that are comparable to other modeling uncertainties and intrinsic sample variability. Furthermore, estimates of Δage (the gas age/ice age difference) at WAIS-D appear to be largely unaffected by bubble closure above the lock-in zone. Within the lock-in zone, small gas species and their isotopes show evidence of size-dependent fractionation due to permeation through the ice lattice with a size threshold of 0.36 nm, as at other sites. We also see an unequivocal and unprecedented signal of oxygen isotope fractionation within the lock-in zone, which we interpret as the mass-dependent expression of a size-dependent fractionation process.
Widespread release of old carbon across the Siberian Arctic echoed by its large rivers
Authors: Gustafsson Ö. , van Dongen B. E. , Vonk J. E. , Dudarev O. V. , Semiletov I. P.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Over decadal-centennial timescales, only a few mechanisms in the carbon-climate system could cause a massive net redistribution of carbon from land and ocean systems to the atmosphere in response to climate warming. The largest such climate-vulnerable carbon pool is the old organic carbon (OC) stored in Arctic permafrost (perennially frozen) soils. Climate warming, both predicted and now observed to be the strongest globally in the Eurasian Arctic and Alaska, causes thaw-release of old permafrost carbon from local tundra sites. However, a central challenge for the assessment of the general vulnerability of this old OC pool is to deduce any signal integrating its release over larger scales. Here we examine radiocarbon measurements of molecular soil markers exported by the five Great Russian-Arctic Rivers (Ob, Yenisey, Lena, Indigirka and Kolyma), employed as natural integrators of carbon release processes in their watersheds. The signals held in estuarine surface sediments revealed that average radiocarbon ages of n-alkanes increased east-to-west from 6400 yr BP in Kolyma to 11 400 yr BP in Ob. This is consistent with westwards trends of both warmer climate and more degraded organic matter as indicated by the ratio of high molecular weight (HMW) n-alkanoic acids to HMW n-alkanes. The dynamics of Siberian permafrost can thus be probed via the molecular-radiocarbon signal as carried by Arctic rivers. Old permafrost carbon is at present vulnerable to mobilization over continental scales. Climate-induced changes in the radiocarbon fingerprint of released permafrost carbon will likely depend on changes in both permafrost coverage and Arctic soil hydraulics.
East Siberian Sea, an Arctic region of very high biogeochemical activity
Authors: Anderson L. G. , Björk G. , Jutterström S. , Pipko I. , Shakhova N. , Semiletov I. , Wåhlström I.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Shelf seas are among the most active biogeochemical marine environments and the East Siberian Sea is a prime example. This sea is supplied by seawater from both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and has a substantial input of river runoff. All of these waters contribute chemical constituents, dissolved and particulate, but of different signatures. Sea ice formation during the winter season and melting in the summer has a major impact on physical as well as biogeochemical conditions. The internal circulation and water mass distribution is significantly influenced by the atmospheric pressure field. The western region is dominated by input of river runoff from the Laptev Sea and an extensive input of terrestrial organic matter. The microbial decay of this organic matter produces carbon dioxide (CO2) that oversaturates all waters from the surface to bottom relative to atmospheric level, even when primary production, inferred from low surface water nutrients, has occurred. The eastern surface waters were under-saturated with respect to CO2 illustrating the dominance of marine primary production. The drawdown of dissolved inorganic carbon equals a primary production of ~0.8 ± 2 mol C m−2, which when multiplied by half the area of the East Siberian Sea, ~500 000 km2, results in an annual primary production of 0.4 (± 1) × 1012 mol C or ~4 (± 10) × 1012 gC. Microbial decay occurs through much of the water column, but dominates at the sediment interface where the majority of organic matter ends up, thus more of the decay products are recycled to the bottom water. High nutrient concentrations and fugacity of CO2 and low oxygen and pH were observed in the bottom waters. Another signature of organic matter decomposition, methane (CH4), was observed in very high but variable concentrations. This is due to its seabed sources of glacial origin or modern production from ancient organic matter, becoming available due to sub-sea permafrost thaw and formation of so-called taliks. The decay of organic matter to CO2 as well as oxidation of CH4 to CO2 contribute to a natural ocean acidification making the saturation state of calcium carbonate low, resulting in under-saturation of all the bottom waters with respect to aragonite and large areas of under-saturation down to 50 % with respect to calcite. Hence, conditions for calcifying organisms are very unfavorable.
Sensitivity of wetland methane emissions to model assumptions: application and model testing against site observations
Authors: Meng L. , Hess P. G. M. , Mahowald N. M. , Yavitt J. B. , Riley W. J. , Subin Z. M. , Lawrence D. M. , Swenson S. C. , Jauhiainen J. , Fuka D. R.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Methane emissions from natural wetlands and rice paddies constitute a large proportion of atmospheric methane, but the magnitude and year-to-year variation of these methane sources is still unpredictable. Here we describe and evaluate the integration of a methane biogeochemical model (CLM4Me; Riley et al., 2011) into the Community Land Model 4.0 (CLM4CN) in order to better explain spatial and temporal variations in methane emissions. We test new functions for soil pH and redox potential that impact microbial methane production in soils. We also constrain aerenchyma in plants in always-inundated areas in order to better represent wetland vegetation. Satellite inundated fraction is explicitly prescribed in the model because there are large differences between simulated fractional inundation and satellite observations. A rice paddy module is also incorporated into the model, where the fraction of land used for rice production is explicitly prescribed. The model is evaluated at the site level with vegetation cover and water table prescribed from measurements. Explicit site level evaluations of simulated methane emissions are quite different than evaluating the grid cell averaged emissions against available measurements. Using a baseline set of parameter values, our model-estimated average global wetland emissions for the period 1993–2004 were 256 Tg CH4 yr−1, and rice paddy emissions in the year 2000 were 42 Tg CH4 yr−1. Tropical wetlands contributed 201 Tg CH4 yr−1, or 78 % of the global wetland flux. Northern latitude (>50 N) systems contributed 12 Tg CH4 yr−1. We expect this latter number may be an underestimate due to the low high-latitude inundated area captured by satellites and unrealistically low high-latitude productivity and soil carbon predicted by CLM4. Sensitivity analysis showed a large range (150–346 Tg CH4 yr−1) in predicted global methane emissions. The large range was sensitive to: (1) the amount of methane transported through aerenchyma, (2) soil pH (± 100 Tg CH4 yr−1), and (3) redox inhibition (± 45 Tg CH4 yr−1).
Latitudinal differences in the amplitude of the OAE-2 carbon isotopic excursion: pCO2 and paleoproductivity
Authors: van Bentum E. C. , Reichart G.-J. , Forster A. , Sinninghe Damsté J. S.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. A complete, well-preserved record of the Cenomanian/Turonian (C/T) Oceanic Anoxic Event 2 (OAE-2) was recovered from Demerara Rise in the southern North Atlantic Ocean (ODP site 1260). Across this interval, we determined changes in the stable carbon isotopic composition of sulfur-bound phytane (δ13Cphytane, a biomarker for photosynthetic algae. The δ13Cphytane record shows a positive excursion at the onset of the OAE-2 interval, with an unusually large amplitude (~7 ‰) compared to existing C/T proto-North Atlantic δ13Cphytane records (3–6 ‰). Overall, the amplitude of the excursion of δ13Cphytane decreases with latitude. Using reconstructed sea surface temperature (SST) gradients for the proto-North Atlantic, we investigated environmental factors influencing the latitudinal δ13Cphytane gradient. The observed gradient is best explained by high productivity at DSDP Site 367 and Tarfaya basin before OAE-2, which changed in overall high productivity throughout the proto-North Atlantic during OAE-2. During OAE-2, productivity at site 1260 and 603B was thus more comparable to the mid-latitude sites. Using these constraints as well as the SST and δ13Cphytane-records from Site 1260, we subsequently reconstructed pCO2 levels across the OAE-2 interval. Accordingly, pCO2 decreased from ca. 1750 to 900 ppm during OAE-2, consistent with enhanced organic matter burial resulting in lowering pCO2. Whereas the onset of OAE-2 coincided with increased pCO2, in line with a volcanic trigger for this event, the observed cooling within OAE-2 probably resulted from CO2 sequestration in black shales outcompeting CO2 input into the atmosphere. Together these results show that the ice-free Cretaceous world was sensitive to changes in pCO2 related to perturbations of the global carbon cycle.
A multi-model ensemble method that combines imperfect models through learning
Authors: van den Berge L. A. , Selten F. M. , Wiegerinck W. , Duane G. S.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. In the current multi-model ensemble approach climate model simulations are combined a posteriori. In the method of this study the models in the ensemble exchange information during simulations and learn from historical observations to combine their strengths into a best representation of the observed climate. The method is developed and tested in the context of small chaotic dynamical systems, like the Lorenz 63 system. Imperfect models are created by perturbing the standard parameter values. Three imperfect models are combined into one super-model, through the introduction of connections between the model equations. The connection coefficients are learned from data from the unperturbed model, that is regarded as the truth. The main result of this study is that after learning the super-model is a very good approximation to the truth, much better than each imperfect model separately. These illustrative examples suggest that the super-modeling approach is a promising strategy to improve weather and climate simulations.
Toll-Like Receptors Dysregulation after Influenza Virus Infection: Insights into Pathogenesis of Subsequent Bacterial Pneumonia
Authors: Keynan Yoav , Fowke Keith R. , Ball T. Blake , Meyers Adrienne F. A.
Published: June 2011

The innate immune system utilizes an intricate network to aid in fighting foreign invaders. Recent insight and understanding of toll-like receptors (TLRs) has been critical in providing key information about early responses to infection, and more recently, understanding dysregulation of TLRs has shed light on pathogenic states. This paper addresses the importance of innate immunity and TLR regulation of immune responses to the presence of influenza infection and its role in the subsequent bacterial infections.
A New Signature Scheme Based on Multiple Hard Number Theoretic Problems
Authors: Ismail E. S. , Tahat N. M. F.
Published: June 2011

The past years have seen many attempts to construct digital signature schemes based on a single hard problem, like factoring or discrete logarithm. But in the near future, those systems will no longer be secure if the solution of factoring or discrete logarithms problems is discovered. In this paper, we propose a new signature scheme based on two hard number theoretic problems, factoring and discrete logarithms. The major advantage of our scheme is that it is very unlikely that factoring and discrete logarithms can be efficiently solved simultaneously, and; therefore, the security of our scheme is longer or higher than that of any scheme based on a single hard number theoretic problem. We also show that the performance of the scheme requires only minimal operation both in signing and verifying logarithms and is resistant to attack.
Fetal Urine Production in Late Pregnancy
Authors: Stigter Robert H. , Mulder Eduard J. H. , Bruinse Hein W. , Visser Gerard H. A.
Published: June 2011

Objective. Hourly fetal urine production rate (HFUPR) was studied in relation to both gestational age and the onset of spontaneous labor in normal term human pregnancies. Methods. Serial volume measurements were obtained from longitudinal ultrasound images of the fetal bladder at 1–5-minute intervals, and HFUPR was subsequently calculated. A total of 178 adequate bladder-filling cycles were recorded in 112 women, and the amniotic fluid index (AFI) was assessed. Results. HFUPR did not change significantly between 37 and 42 weeks' gestation. However, HFUPR decreased during the last 14 days prior to the onset of spontaneous labor (). No significant correlation was found between HFUPR and AFI, neither when measured at the same time nor when HFUPR and AFI were measured at various intervals in time. Conclusion. HFUPR falls before and in relation to the time of onset of labor rather than in relation to gestational age.
Use of Pattern Recognition Analysis to Identify Underlying Relationships of Doxorubicin Derivatives Optimized for Breast Cancer Treatment
Authors: Bartzatt Ronald
Published: June 2011

Introduction. Treatment of breast cancer includes surgery, drugs (hormone therapy and chemotherapy), and radiation. A discussion of eight drug constructs for the treatment of breast cancer, derived through application of in silico optimized molecular properties and substituent substitution, are analyzed using pattern recognition techniques. Methods and Materials. Determined properties of these eight compounds (inclusive of doxorubicin) showed a Log P varying from 0.567 to 4.137, rotatable bonds from 5 to 12, polar surface area from 195.1 A2 to 206.1 A2, and water solubility from 0.00873 mg/L to 390 mg/L. Analysis of similarity (ANOSIM), hierarchical cluster analysis, and neighbor-joining cluster analysis elucidated relationships among the drugs that are useful for pharmaceutical consideration. Results and Discussion. Although the new derivatives share the same parent scaffold (doxorubicin), elucidation by analysis of similarity (ANOSIM) indicates that these assorted compounds are substantially distinct. The number of oxygen and nitrogen atoms (hydrogen bond acceptors) remained constant at 12 for compounds. Although violations of the Rule of five remained constant at three for all compounds, the variation of Log P and water solubility offers potentially beneficial medicinal activity for this group of anticancer agents that may enhance the antitumor activity of these anthracycline antibiotics. Hierarchical cluster analysis results clearly differentiated the parent doxorubicin from all higher molecular weight analogs. This outcome is confirmed with the use of neighbor-joining cluster analysis. Conclusion. By utilizing in silico optimization with pattern recognition analysis, potentially advantageous analogs can be elucidated from known effective pharmaceuticals.
Reproductive Aspects of Moenkhausia intermedia Eigenmann, 1908 (Pisces, Characidae) in the Upper Paraná River Basin, Brazil
Authors: Casimiro Armando César Rodrigues , Garcia Diego Azevedo Zoccal , de Almeida Fernanda Simões , Orsi Mário Luís
Published: June 2011

The aim of this work was to determine the reproductive tactic of the population of Moenkhausia intermedia, inhabiting the Capivara Reservoir, lower Paranapanema River. Four different stretches of the reservoir were selected, and sampling was carried out quarterly, in the period from 2001 to 2004. Fish were captured utilizing gill nets, cast nets, and seine nets. Later, fish were identified and measured and had their sex identified. Here we describe sex proportion, standard length at first maturation (), site and period of spawning, fecundity and type of spawning. The population showed an effective reproductive activity in the area, with the number of females higher than males and corresponding to 6,1 cm and 5,5 cm, respectively. A greater intensity of spawning occurred in the warmest months. Reproductive activity was identified in all stretches studied, and the absolute fecundity average was 9611 oocytes per gonad, and the mean relative fecundity corresponded to 1065 oocytes/grams.
Expression of the Lactate Dehydrogenase Gene fromEptatretus okinoseanusinEscherichia coli
Authors: Nishiguchi Yoshikazu , Uchida Akira , Oshima Noriko , Okada Mitsumasa
Published: June 2011

AmplifiedEptatretus okinoseanuscDNA was digested with NdeI and EcoRI, cloned into pCold trigger factor (TF), and transformed withEscherichia colistrain BL 21 in which a csp A promoter was introduced to inhibit the expression of foreign peptides. Recombinant lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was obtained in the soluble fraction after sonication of the cells. The protein was digested by HRC 3C protease, thrombin, and factor Xa. The specific activity of TF-tagged protein and tagless protein were  mIU/mg and  mIU/mg, respectively. The deletion of the TF tag enhanced the activity compared with the native protein to  mIU/mg, showing that this expression method is effective for the mass production of the protein to allow further study of the structure of LDH.
Direito: a política por outros meios
Authors: Pinheiro Jair
Published: June 2011

Este artigo visa a examinar a relação entre a lógica formal aplicada à lei e as categorias centrais das relações sociais de produção capitalistas.
Comentários à Lei 9613
Authors: Maschietto Marcos José
Published: June 2011

Em 1998 foi editada Lei Especial que se destina a coibir as ações dos chamados ‘lavadores de dinheiro’, a exemplo e por imposição das comunidades internacionais e em razão da globalização do mundo moderno. Ocorre que as legislações penais não são idênticas, tendo cada ordenamento sido criado para atender às expectativas e ordenar a convivência dos comunitários a que servem, bem como para espelhar a vontade do Estado Soberano, que impõe e faz valer sua vontade aos nativos e aos estrangeiros que aqui residem ou nos visitam. Quando a vontade externa é sobreposta, acaba por conflitar com as normas vigentes no território nacional, tornando duvidosa sua eficácia e comprometendo sua aplicabilidade.
Tribunal Penal Internacional: de Direito de momento a momento do Direito
Authors: Baldan Edson Luís
Published: June 2011

Este artigo tem por escopo a discussão da compatibilidade entre as disposições do Estatuto do Tribunal Penal Internacional e o direito penal e processual penal constitucionais brasileiros, bem como a análise da possibilidade de adequação dos dispositivos internacionais de proteção aos direitos humanos e as garantias individuais do cidadão.
O Império da lei ou a ‘lei’ do império? Guerra versus legalidade na nova ordem mundial
Authors: Passos Rodrigo Duarte Fernandes dos
Published: June 2011

O artigo pretende discutir, nos termos da conjuntura mundial inaugurada em 11 de setembro de 2001, se cabe conferir o status de legitimidade, moralidade e legalidade . guerra, particularmente no que se refere à guerra preventiva’ e ao combate do terrorismo pelos Estados Unidos.
Notas sobre a história dos direitos da velhice no Brasil
Authors: Haddad Eneida Gonçalves de Macedo
Published: June 2011

Durante as últimas décadas, a velhice tornou-se visível no Brasil, com o significativo aumento da população com mais de sessenta anos. Os primeiros projetos de políticas públicas para a velhice datam dos anos 70, independentemente da experiência acumulada pela filantropia privada. Todavia, se no discurso, o Estado brasileiro anuncia a intenção de encontrar caminhos que garantam uma melhor qualidade de vida na velhice, concretamente, nem sequer a Política Nacional do Idoso conseguiu se firmar no âmbito dos direitos sociais. Ante a situação econômico-política gerada pela orientação neoliberal, o Estado brasileiro incorporou o discurso político dos credores internacionais. O padrão de previdência que, paulatinamente, vem sendo implantado contrapõe-se a uma seguridade social afinada com os interesses da maior parte da popular.o brasileira.
Kant ou uma filosofia da contenção
Authors: Júnior Alfredo Attié
Published: June 2011

A partir de uma crítica e de um modo de abordagem originais, o autor procura demonstrar que a filosofia de Kant é uma filosofia de contenção social, política e epistemológica. Ao buscar estabelecer a prevalência do sujeito e de sua particular e restritiva capacidade, a razão, nas relações sociais e de conhecimento, Kant não apenas interpretou de modo equivocado a ciência de seu tempo, como também apontou um caminho estreito para o desenvolvimento científico, filosófico e político, o qual, se viesse a ser seguido, travaria qualquer possibilidade de avanço em tais espaços de saber e de ação. O desenvolvimento científico e filosófico posterior infirmou a hipótese kantiana. Entretanto, no direito e na história, a influência kantiana acabou por encobrir a expressão da liberdade. Ao proceder a tal crítica, o autor debate com toda uma tradição e projeta novo percurso, em especial para o direito.
A fundação ética do direito internacional em Kant: à paz perpétua
Authors: Fernandes Pádua
Published: June 2011

O artigo analisa a contribuição da obra de Kant, especialmente de À paz perpétua (Zum ewigen Frieden), para o debate contemporâneo sobre a Ética e o Direito Internacional, e compara a doutrina kantiana com pontos duvidosos da teoria jurídica de Kelsen e da filosofia política de Habermas e de Rawls.
Norberto Bobbio: normas jurídicas e regras políticas
Authors: Bittar Eduardo Carlos Bianca
Published: June 2011

Trata-se de vislumbrar em Norberto Bobbio um pensamento dinâmico, que ora está focado na estrutura do sistema jurídico, ora na dimensão dos valores sociais e políticos, demonstrando-se como esse pode ser o fator de diferenciação da reflexão desse autor.
Bobbio e a linguagem do direito
Authors: Baptista Fernando Pavan
Published: June 2011

Norberto Bobbio apresentou uma significante contribuição à teoria do direito, ao analisar a doutrina formalista de Kelsen do ponto de vista semiótico, utilizando os critérios lógico-lingüísticos propagados pelos
neopositivistas do Círculo de Viena
Retórica e razão de Estado católica: o pensamento político do padre Antonio Vieira em favor da monarquia lusa
Authors: Coelho Alessandro Manduco
Published: June 2011

O artigo analisa como o padre Antonio Vieira, por meio de suas propostas e sermões, encaminhava questões importantes de seu momento histórico, particularmente a motivação de uma razão de estado católica, sempre lançando mão de um discurso que, ao mesmo tempo, é retórico, teológico e político.
A cultura jurídica brasileira e a chibata: Miguel Reale e a história como fonte do direito
Authors: Fernandes Pádua
Published: June 2011

Neste artigo, analisa-se a oposição de Miguel Reale à instauração de Assembléias Constituintes, durante a ditadura militar brasileira, como uma repetição da tese da inadaptação das idéias liberais e democráticas à realidade brasileira. Essa tese corresponde a uma leitura dualista da história que fundamentou os elementos autoritários da cultura jurídica brasileira. Segundo essa cultura, a história não pode servir de fonte para produzir novos direitos, e sim de justificativa para o continuísmo político.
A propriedade intelectual na Convenção sobre Diversidade Biológica
Authors: Passos Rogério Duarte Fernandes dos
Published: June 2011

Este artigo apresenta as disposições acerca de propriedade intelectual expressas na convenção da biodiversidade das Nações Unidas e em possíveis confrontos com outras disposições internacionais vigentes, especialmente as constantes dos acordos Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPs).
O princípio da supremacia constitucional e a inconstitucionalidade: uma leitura acerca da ordem constitucional de 1988 como determinante do parâmetro para controle de constitucionalidade
Authors: Figueiredo Patrícia Cobianchi
Published: June 2011

Procura-se, neste artigo, fazer uma leitura do fenômeno da inconstitucionalidade como ofensa à supremacia da Constituição que, além de ser considerada garantia, atualmente requer que ela mesma seja assegurada. Por essa razão, preocupa-se, mais especificamente, com o parâmetro de constitucionalidade por meio do qual se identifica possível ofensa à Constituição. Em outras palavras, é intento deste estudo trazer à reflexão, ainda em um cenário incerto – bem por isso a partir de ensinamentos, de certa forma, já consolidados –, o problema em apontar qual é o parâmetro para o controle da constitucionalidade diante, não apenas do texto da Constituição Federal de 1988, mas também diante da ordem constitucional por ele inaugurada. Esse parâmetro é necessário ao intérprete no momento que precede a própria utilização dos meios disponíveis para o devido controle, vale dizer, a devida verificação da compatibilidade dos atos infraconstitucionais com os ditames oriundos da Lei Maior.
O princípio da eficiência na administração pública brasileira
Authors: Muniz Cibele Cristina Baldassa
Published: June 2011

Neste artigo, pretende-se traçar uma breve análise do princípio da eficiência trazido, para o campo constitucional por meio da Emenda nº 19/98, para compor, em conjunto com os princípios da legalidade, moralidade, impessoalidade e publicidade, a vinculação da administração pública com o desempenho de suas atividades. O sentido dessa análise foi dar a esse princípio um contorno próprio, coadunado com a noção de modernidade que o redimensionou no mundo da Administração Pública, amalgamado com o espírito da própria Constituição que o recepcionou. Isso significa a possibilidade de ampliação do controle judicial da ação administrativa pelos resultados que apresentar.
A cooperação jurídica internacional e o crime organizado transnacional
Authors: Rabelo Carolina Gladyer
Published: June 2011

A autora analisa, por meio deste estudo, a revolução provocada pelo conceito da globalização e as mudanças que incendiaram o contexto internacional, sendo a principal delas a quebra das barreiras fronteiriças entre os Estados. Aborda a idéia de uma justa Cooperação Jurídica Internacional e seus aspectos práticos. Exemplifica os tipos de crimes transfronteiriços mais comuns e os explana de acordo com o contexto hodierno. Ao final, verifica a Convenção de Palermo e seus Protocolos, junto ao United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) – departamento das Nações Unidas, que aborda o tema, inserindo maneiras de controle para o Crime Organizado Transnacional.
A filosofia política e a superação do masculino e do feminino
Authors: Palma Norman , Boucault Carlos Eduardo De Abreu
Published: June 2011

Neste artigo, analisam-se, com base no pensamento de Aristóteles, o princípio da igualdade e sua incompatibilidade com o racismo e o patriarcalismo, que faz com que metade do humano negue à outra sua dimensão universal. O humanismo concreto exige o respeito à dignidade de todos os cidadãos para que se chegue à dimensão cosmopolítica e os indivíduos se afirmem como cidadãos da sociedade internacional.
Quem outorga os direitos do homem?
Authors: Pimenta Alberto
Published: June 2011

Neste artigo, aborda-se a questão da legitimidade do Estado em atribuir os direitos do homem aos cidadãos. Verifica-se também o caráter estatal das declarações de direito internacionais e nacionais, que sofrem crise de legitimidade e eficácia (como já havia percebido Lacan), e aponta-se a necessidade de reconfigurar o princípio da autonomia.
Emmanuel Lévinas y la dignidad humana, a la luz del acontecimiento antropológico
Authors: Barraca Javier
Published: June 2011

La perspectiva de Lévinas acerca de la dignidad humana y los Derechos Humanos supone una de las contribuciones más creativas y originales desarrolladas a lo largo del siglo XX. Es en este contexto donde ha de situarse su particular referencia al “acontecimiento antropológico”, una clave decisiva del conjunto de su aproximación a los Derechos Humanos. Dicha clave tiene que ver con temas y términos, típicamente levinasianos, como: responsabilidad humana, relación, deber, el otro, los otros, diferencia, subjetividad, heteronomía, pasividad, y otros semejantes.
O Finor e o desenvolvimento do Nordeste – processos de distribuição e de concentração de renda
Authors: Ourem Campos Hélio Silvio
Published: June 2011

Este artigo trata do Fundo de Investimento do Nordeste (Finor), de seus agentes operadores, especialmente a Superintendência de Desenvolvimento do Nordeste (Sudene). As irregularidades descobertas na operacionalização do Fundo levaram à instauração de uma Comissão Parlamentar de Inquérito (CPI) no Congresso Nacional. O Finor foi extinto (bem como a Sudene) sem a punição de grande parte dos responsáveis pelas irregularidades, permanecendo a necessidade de erradicação das desigualdades regionais, que é, segundo a Constituição Federal, um dos objetivos fundamentais da República Federativa do Brasil.
Ascensão funcional por direito adquirido em julgado do Supremo Tribunal Federal
Authors: Cavalcante Jacqueline Maria
Published: June 2011

Este trabalho visa renovar a discussão acerca do direito adquirido, tendo como base a análise de um caso concreto: o julgamento de mandado de segurança pelo Supremo Tribunal Federal envolvendo progressão funcional vertical de empregados da Empresa Brasileira de Correios. Registra-se o posicionamento doutrinário a respeito dessa garantia, para, ao final, concluir que o julgamento do Tribunal não correspondeu ao pensamento majoritário da doutrina. A trajetória metodológica desta pesquisa, quanto à natureza, é qualitativa; em relação ao tipo, é bibliográfica e documental e, ao fim, explicativa, sendo pura, no que concerne à utilização dos resultados. Concluiu-se que embora o Supremo Tribunal Federal seja o guardião da constituição, nem sempre seus julgados refletem a boa execução dessa atribuição. O caso estudado é um exemplo disso.
Acesso a medicamentos: questões polêmicas sob a perspectiva da interpretação, aplicação do direito e o ativismo judicial
Authors: Raymundo Giseli Valezi
Published: June 2011

Demandas judiciais, por meio das quais se requer o fornecimento gratuito de medicamentos, multiplicam-se, e o Poder Judiciário, reiteradamente, tem proferido decisões em que avalia determinados parâmetros (questões controvertidas), que surgiram de forma natural das teses expostas em juízo, julgando procedentes ou não os pedidos que exigem o acesso, sem qualquer custo, aos fármacos. Este trabalho, à luz das teorias que tratam do ativismo judicial em meio à interpretação e à aplicação do direito, analisará as principais questões polêmicas que têm sido apreciadas nos tribunais pátrios, para contribuir com o debate existente atualmente sobre o tema.
Universidade, Currículo e Diretrizes Curriculares no Curso de Direito
Authors: Linhares Milton , Linhares Mônica Tereza Mansur
Published: June 2011

Neste artigo, os autores traçam uma breve análise sobre a problemática do currículo e das diretrizes curriculares para o curso de Direito, bacharelado, instituídas pela Resolução CNE/CES nº 9, de 29 de setembro de 2004, do Conselho Nacional de Educação. Com efeito, o currículo e as diretrizes curriculares para o ensino do Direito se revestem de importância fundamental para a condução das diretrizes do ensino jurídico no Brasil. Constituem-se numa preocupação de toda a comunidade acadêmica, jurídica e profissional, e do Estado brasileiro – suas autoridades e sociedade –, que se responsabilizam pelas definições e decisões curriculares no campo da normatização jurídico-educacional. O sentido desta análise é apresentar os aspectos educacionais, pedagógicos, éticos, jurídicos e, sobretudo, filosóficos do currículo jurídico e de suas diretrizes para o curso de Direito. Discute-se, ainda, o papel e a importância da universidade na implantação dos currículos no ensino do Direito, visando ao desenvolvimento e à proposição de novos paradigmas curriculares para o curso de Direito.
A justiça poética de Hesíodo
Authors: Lacerda Bruno Amaro
Published: June 2011

Nesse artigo, pretende-se abordar uma das primeiras concepções humanas sobre a justiça. O poeta Hesíodo (século VII a.C.), considerado um dos maiores educadores da Grécia, procura mostrar em seu poema, Os trabalhos e os dias, que a justiça é uma qualidade que melhora o homem, distanciando-o da condição animal e ligando-o à divindade. A dignidade humana, nesse sentido, deriva da liberdade, da escolha da ação boa e do repúdio à iniquidade. O recurso aos mitos tradicionais tem para o poeta uma função pedagógica: exortar os homens a buscarem o seu bem maior, aquilo que os separa das bestas e os aproxima do divino, conferindo-lhes uma essência única nesse mundo: a posse da justiça.
Palavras-chave: Dignidade humana; Hesíodo; Justiça.
La ciencia de la policía en los inicios del constitucionalismo colombiano (1811-1830)
Authors: Pinzón Miguel Alejandro Malagón
Published: June 2011

Este artículo pretende mostrar como en los comienzos del Estado Republicano en Colombia, la Administración Pública conservó el modelo de control derivado de la Policía colonial y no se siguió por instituciones de corte francés, con un sistema de juez especial. Circunstancia que nos hace replantear el origen y la identidad del derecho administrativo colombiano.
Palabras-claves: Policía. Administración. Control. Intendentes. Gobernadores.
Entre bios e polis? Debates contemporâneos sobre saúde, biomedicina e biocidadania
Authors: Filipe Ângela Marques
Published: June 2011

Os actuais debates sobre saúde, biomedicina e cidadania surgem no seio de um conjunto de reflexões marcado, por um lado, pelas transformações operadas no campo da biomedicina e do (bio)poder, e por outro, pelas reconfigurações introduzidas por diversos actores colectivos. Numa análise, sobretudo teórica e conceptual, evidenciam-se os debates contemporâneos na fronteira entre biologia e política. Esse texto põe, ainda, a hipótese de que algumas das mais visíveis redefinições em curso no panorama da saúde se desenvolvem, precisamente, nas constituições mútuas de dois processos: “biomedicalização” da política e de “politização” da biologia.
Palavras-chave: Biocidadania; Biomedicina; Política; Saúde.