bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origem e distribuição anatômica do nervo isquiático de mão-pelada (Procyon cancrivorus)
Authors: Pereira Kleber F , Paranaiba Juliana F.F.e S , Helrigle Carla , Araújo Eugênio G. de
Published: February 2012

O nervo isquiático é considerado o maior nervo do corpo, pertence tanto ao plexo sacral quanto ao lombossacral em carnívoros, continuando até a extremidade distal do membro pélvico, recebe fiibras dos ramos ventrais do sexto e sétimo nervos lombares e do primeiro nervo sacral. O objetivo do presente estudo é descrever a distribuição do nervo isquiático em mão-pelada (Procyon cancrivorus) e comparar com dados literários de animais domésticos e silvestres. Os animais são procedentes de coleta em rodovias, entre as cidades de Goiânia e Jataí, principalmente na BR 364 ou BR 060. (mortos por acidente) e fiixados em solução aquosa, a 10% de formaldeído. Doados ao Museu de Anatomia Humana e Comparada da UFG (Universidade Federal de Goiás, Campus de Jataí, Proc.CAJ-287/2008). As dissecações e documentação fotográfiica permitiram observar a distribuição do nervo isquiático. O nervo isquiático de mão-pelada inerva o membro pélvico passando entre os músculos glúteo médio e profundo, emitindo ramos para a musculatura da região glútea e da coxa, respectivamente, para os músculos glúteo médio, glúteo bíceps, semimembranáceo, semitendíneo, bíceps femoral, gêmeos, quadrado femoral e adutor magno, emitindo nervo cutâneo lateral e caudal da sura para suprir a pele na superfiície lateral e caudal da perna, respectivamente. Próximo ao meio da coxa bifurca-se em nervo tibial e nervo fiibular comum. O conhecimento anatômico da origem e distribuição do nervo is quiático em mão pelada quando comparado com animais domésticos, silvestres e de fazenda, mostram um padrão de inervação semelhante entre os espécimes.
Proteínas séricas de potros da raça Puro Sangue Árabe recém-desmamados ou com mais de trinta dias de desmame
Authors: Favero Diego Horcajo Martinez Fudoli , Dias Deborah Penteado Martins , Feringer-Junior Walter Heinz , Bernardi Nara Saraiva , Lacerda-Neto José Corrêa de
Published: February 2012

A fase perinatal do desenvolvimento constitui um dos períodos de vida mais desafiadores para o sistema imunológico dos potros. O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar o perfil protéico sérico de parâmetros relacionados à imunidade de equinos jovens no período perinatal, verificando-se a transferência de imunidade passiva. Oito animais desmamados há um dia, formaram o Grupo 1 (G1), enquanto vinte animais desmamados há mais de trinta dias formaram o Grupo 2 (G2). A concentração sérica de proteína total foi determinada por refratometria. Para o fracionamento das proteínas, utilizou-se eletroforese em gel de acrilamida. Os resultados obtidos foram submetidos à análise de medidas repetidas e ao teste Tukey (p<0,05) para comparação das médias. As concentrações de IgA apresentaram diferença (p<0,05) entre os grupos, porém os valores observados encontravam-se dentro do considerado normal para equinos adultos. Não houve diferença (p>0,05) nas concentrações de IgG. O estabelecimento adequado da imunidade celular ocorre durante a fase neonatal, nos animais que ingerem adequadamente o colostro e o leite. O presente estudo determinou diferenças no perfil protéico sérico de parâmetros relacionados à imunidade de equinos jovens no período imediato ao desmame, comparados com animais desmamados há mais de 30 dias. De acordo com os valores observados, concluiu-se que os animais, mesmo desmamados precocemente, obtiveram transferência adequada de imunidade passiva.
Comparação das propriedades de sorção e solubilidade de cimentos submetidos a diferentes soluções e tempos de armazenagem
Authors: Busato Priscilla do M. R. , Oliveira Erika C. S. de , Busato Mauro C. A. , Mendonça Márcio J. , Rodrigues Natiéli A. , Vendrame Taline K. , Camilotti Veridiana
Published: February 2012

A finalidade deste estudo foi avaliar in vitro algumas propriedades dos cimentos Rely X U100 (3M ESPE), Rely X Luting (3M ESPE) e All Cem (FGM), como a sorção e solubilidade em água destilada e numa solução de álcool 75%, por períodos de 7 e 15 dias. Foram confeccionados 60 corpos-de-prova, divididos em três grupos (n = 20), de acordo com o cimento escolhido. Eles foram então divididos em quatro grupos de acordo com os fatores avaliados, tipo de solução e período de avaliação. Os espécimes foram padronizados com 8 mm de diâmetro e 1 mm de espessura, sendo polimerizados sobre lâminas de microscopia e matriz de poliéster e os excessos foram removidos com lâmina de bisturi. As amostras foram transferidas para uma estufa a 37 °C até atingir a massa constante, denominada M1. Na sequência, foram imersas em suas respectivas soluções e permaneceram armazenadas por 7 e 15 dias. Decorrido este período, os espécimes foram pesados novamente, obtendo-se a M2. Para obter a nova massa constante, denominada M3, os mesmos retornaram à estufa a 37 °C. Para o cálculo da sorção e da solubilidade, foram utilizadas equações, sendo (M2-M3)/V e (M1-M3)/V, respectivamente. Os resultados foram submetidos à ANOVA de dois fatores.
Otimização de propriedades mecânicas de misturas ternárias de polipropileno (PP)/borracha de etileno-propileno-dieno (EPDM)/pó de pneus (SRT) sob tração e impacto usando a metodologia da superfície de resposta (MSR)
Authors: Costa Helson M. da , Ramos Valéria D. , Silva Wilson S. da , Sirqueira Alex da Silva
Published: February 2012

A metodologia da superfície de resposta (MSR) é uma coleção de técnicas estatísticas e matemáticas para desenvolver, melhorar e otimizar processos. Neste estudo, a técnica MSR foi aplicada na investigação do comportamento mecânico de diferentes misturas ternárias de PP/EPDM/SRT. Após a mistura apropriada em uma extrusora de dupla rosca co-rotante e a moldagem por injeção, as propriedades mecânicas (resistência à tração e a resistência ao impacto) foram determinadas e usadas como variáveis de resposta. A microscopia eletrônica de varredura (MEV) foi usada para investigar a morfologia das diferentes misturas e interpretar os resultados. Com ferramentas estatísticas específicas, um número mínimo de experimentos permitiu o desenvolvimento de um modelo de superfície de resposta e a otimização das concentrações dos componentes de acordo com o desempenho mecânico. Valores elevados de resistência ao impacto são alcançados (>80 J.m-1) quando, de acordo com as condições experimentais estudadas, a mistura física de PP/EPDM/SRT mantém as proporções de EPDM e SRT em torno de 25%.
Corpo, festa e ludicidade: a cultura maringaense retratada em telas
Authors: Teixeira Fabiane Castilho , Lara Larissa Michelle , Rinaldi Ieda Parra Barbosa
Published: February 2012

O texto analisa como corpo, festa e ludicidade aparecem na pintura em telas da artista plástica Lilia Lobo e como sua arte traduz a memória cultural da cidade de Maringá-PR. Com base no método iconológico, o intuito do estudo é apresentar obras que retratam a cultura nesta cidade, notadamente, aquelas que tematizam as festas. Os dados atentam para a materialização imagética da cultura maringaense, ressaltada em detalhes que expressam um corpo lúdico num campo festivo singular. As investigações apontam para a necessidade de contribuir para a difusão/valorização de artistas que se tornam esquecidos e que produzem importante documento iconográfico da cultura da cidade.
Fibromialgia: nível de atividade física e qualidade do sono
Authors: Campos Raquel Munhoz da Silveira , Silva Andressa , Queiroz Sandra Souza de , Mônico Neto Marcos , Roizenblatt Suely , Tufik Sergio , Mello Marco Túlio de
Published: February 2012

O objetivo foi identificar o nível de atividade física e sua relação com sonolência excessiva diurna e qualidade de sono em 15 mulheres com fibromialgia, com idade média de 58±7 anos. Foi utilizado o Questionário Internacional de Atividade Física, o Índice de Qualidade de Sono de Pittsburgh e a Escala de Sonolência de Epworth. O programa SPSS Statistics versão 17 foi utilizado para as analises estatísticas e o valor para significância foi de α < 0,05. Os resultados evidenciaram que 33,3% das pacientes classificaram-se inativas e 66,7% minimamente ativas. Observou-se sonolência excessiva diurna em 60% das pacientes. A qualidade ruim de sono foi observada em 55,6% das pacientes minimamente ativas e em 60% das inativas. O tempo médio para adormecer foi 34,3 minutos, a eficiência do sono foi 81% e o tempo total de sono foi 5,9 horas. O baixo nível de atividade física parece ser um dos fatores capazes de piorar a qualidade do sono de mulheres com fibromialgia.
Iconografia das festas populares em Cândido Portinari: sentidos/significados das expressões carnavalescas
Authors: Lara Larissa Michelle , Souza Thaís Godoi de , Porelli Ana Beatriz Gasquez , Cordeiro Natália Cristina Ribeiro
Published: February 2012

O texto apresenta a pesquisa realizada sobre a iconografia das festas populares em Cândido Portinari, identificando como as imagens criam sentidos para o entendimento da cultura popular e de suas expressões simbólicas. Para tanto, foi necessário apresentar as telas pintadas por Portinari que caracterizam o sub-tema "festas populares", mais especificamente, as telas relacionadas ao "carnaval". Procuramos entender a iconografia de Portinari numa dimensão pedagógica voltada à educação física. Trata-se de um estudo do tipo iconográfico desenvolvido a partir da observação e descrição das imagens em telas, bem como da interpretação acerca do que elas permitem revelar, garantindo a análise objetiva e subjetiva do material de coleta. Tal investigação, enveredando-se pela cultura popular brasileira, reafirma a ideia de que as imagens do corpo festivo em Portinari são densa fonte de pesquisa e recurso pedagógico à área de educação física, merecendo ser potencializadas no processo de formação dos educandos.
Atividade física e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos em pacientes com demência de Alzheimer
Authors: Hernandez Salma Stéphany Soleman , Vital Thays Martins , Gobbi Sebastião , Costa José Luiz Riani , Stella Florindo
Published: February 2012

Na demência de Alzheimer (DA) é comum a presença de sintomas neuropsiquiátricos resultantes de mudanças anatômicas e bioquímicas no cérebro. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma revisão sistemática dos estudos que investigaram a relação entre atividade física e sintomas neuropsiquiátricos na DA. Efetuou-se uma pesquisa nas bases de dados: Academic Search Premier, Biological Abstracts, Medline, PsycINFO, Pubmed, Scielo, Science Direct, Sport Discus e Web of Science, utilizando-se as seguintes palavras - chave e operadores boleanos: (Neuropsychiatric disturbances OR Neuropsychiatric symptoms OR Neuropsychological disturbances OR Aberrant behavior OR Aberrant behaviour OR Behavior disturbances OR Behaviour disturbances OR Behavior management OR Behaviour management OR Disruptive behavior OR Disruptive behaviour) AND (Alzheimer) AND (Exercise OR Motor intervention OR training OR Physical activity OR fitness), além de referências cruzadas dos artigos selecionados. Foram encontrados oito estudos que preencheram os critérios de inclusão. Concluiu-se que bons resultados têm sido evidenciados para os distúrbios de agitação e sono de pacientes com DA. Entretanto então há um consenso de qual o melhor tipo de atividade para estes pacientes.
Políticas públicas de lazer e a metodologia da ação comunitária
Authors: Stoppa Edmur Antonio , Marcellino Nelson Carvalho , Silva Débora Alice Machado da
Published: February 2012

O presente artigo relata a experiência de assessoria realizada junto à Secretaria de Esportes e Lazer de Sorocaba, no período de abril a dezembro de 2009, cujo objetivo central foi implementar uma atividade de lazer num dos bairros do município, como projeto-piloto, visando à formação de quadros da prefeitura e ao fortalecimento comunitário, orientados a partir da metodologia da ação comunitária. O relato apresenta as três fases da estratégia (deflagração, período de carência e continuidade), que inclui ainda uma fase de sensibilização e a capacitação de animadores socioculturais profissionais e voluntários. Os resultados alcançados apontam alguns limites e possibilidades, destacando a importância da parceria do poder público com a comunidade, no sentido de promover uma política de manutenção e uso dos espaços, mas principalmente uma política de animação sociocultural capaz de ampliar os vínculos comunitários e proporcionar experiências diversificadas de lazer à população da região.
O lazer eclipsado: registros sobre o programa “Escola Aberta”
Authors: Costa Jonatas Maia da , Mascarenhas Fernando , Wiggers Ingrid Dittrich
Published: February 2012

Este estudo aborda uma experiência do programa “Escola Aberta”, buscando identificar as suas principais características e destacar aspectos que se referem ao lugar que o lazer ocuparia na proposta em ação. Trata-se de uma política coordenada pelo Ministério da Educação, que visa proporcionar a alunos de escolas públicas e suas comunidades, atividades no tempo livre dos finais de semana, para o desenvolvimento de oficinas de cultura, esporte, lazer e trabalho, como ações complementares às de educação formal. A investigação foi realizada por meio de análise documental e observação de campo. Selecionou-se para a pesquisa uma escola da Região Administrativa do Itapoã (DF), que se caracteriza por baixas condições socioeconômicas. Percebeu-se que as carências da população local por emprego e renda produzem efeito instrumental sobre as oficinas. Atividades voltadas à aprendizagem de ofícios tendem a subordinar as experiências de lazer, limitando a identidade do programa.
Esforço percebido e cinemática em percentuais da velocidade crítica na natação
Authors: Franken Marcos , Diefenthaeler Fernando , Carpes Felipe Pivetta , Castro Flávio Antônio de Souza
Published: February 2012

O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar os efeitos de diferentes percentuais da velocidade crítica (VC) na frequência cardíaca (FC), na frequência média de ciclos de braçadas (FB), na distância média que o corpo desloca a cada ciclo de braçada (DC) e no esforço percebido (EP) no nado crawl. Quinze nadadores, de ambos os sexos, realizaram cinco repetições de 200 m em diferentes percentuais da VC (90, 95, 100, 103 e 105%), em ordem aleatória. A FC, o EP e a FB apresentaram correlação significante positiva com os percentuais da VC (rho = 0,585, p<0,001; rho = 0,720, p<0,001; rho = 0,489, p<0,001, respectivamente). Já a DC não apresentou correlação significante com os percentuais da VC (rho = -0,151, p>0,05). Os resultados nos percentuais prescritos da VC podem ajudar técnicos a entender o impacto das respostas relacionadas à carga interna durante as sessões de
Stability for a high embankment founded on sulfide clay
Authors: Müller Rasmus , Larsson Stefan , Westerberg Bo
Published: February 2012

During staged construction of embankments on clay foundations, the undrained shear strength suincreases due to consolidation during the construction process. The increase is usually related to the pre-consolidation pressure [Formula: see text] by way of the ratio [Formula: see text] and is important when assessing the stability of an embankment. Properties controlling the increase are usually associated with various unknowns that can be difficult to predict before construction. A case involving a large embankment built on vertically drained sulfide clay is presented. Empirical knowledge and experience of similar constructions on sulfide clay were limited, therefore there were uncertainties of the soil–drain interaction and how the soil would behave under the embankment load. A trial embankment was built to gather knowledge and experience of this particular soil and the observational method was adopted. The study presents how embankment stability was predicted at design stage and controlled during construction. It highlights the importance and usefulness of obtaining measurement data from different types of measurements. Laboratory tests and a large number of in situ tests at different stages during construction were performed to assess [Formula: see text] ratios in the sulfide clay. The mean [Formula: see text] ratio was estimated by means of statistical analysis to 0·25 for a large stress interval.
A fractal basis for soil-water characteristics curves with hydraulic hysteresis
Authors: RUSSELL A.R. , BUZZI O.
Published: February 2012

A soil-water characteristic curve with hydraulic hysteresis is derived using fractals by treating pores as either bodies or throats. As suction is increased along the main drying curve, drying of a body is controlled by the largest throat connected to it. As suction is reduced along the main wetting curve, the absorbed water collects in the smallest bodies and throats first, and then fills larger bodies and throats in order of size. The curve is fitted to data for a silt loam. The fit is reasonable for main drying and wetting curves, but less good for scanning curves.
Distillation of oil field produced water for reuse on irrigation water: evaluation of pollutants removal and ecotoxicity
Authors: Andrade Barbara G. , Andrade Vívian T. , Costa Byron R. S. , Campos Juacyara C. , Dezotti Márcia
Published: February 2012

Desalination is one of the earliest forms of saline water treatment and it is still used throughout the world. In this work, a single-effect mechanical vapor compression (MVC) process was investigated to produce water for irrigation of non-edible cultures from oil-field produced water. Distillation was able to produce a condensate presenting very low amounts of 84 analyzed pollutants. Ecotoxicological assays with Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata algae, Danio rerio fish, lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and earthworm (Eisenia fetida) were performed in condensate. The condensate was non-toxic for all tested organisms, except for P. subcapitata algae that showed some level of chronic toxicity caused by ammonium nitrogen. This toxic effect was confirmed by conducting a series of ecotoxicological assays with condensate samples after ammonia removal (stripping). The condensate presented quality acceptable for irrigation of non-edible crops.
Agricultural water reuse in Nicaragua: extent, actual practices, perception and perspectives
Authors: Jiménez Blanca , Carranza Francisco , Medina Nelson
Published: February 2012

Data on the extent of water reuse, its characteristics and social perception is scarce, notably for developing countries. To characterize reuse in Nicaragua, a water-rich country, use of effluents from 22 wastewater treatment plants was surveyed on-site, in combination with a literature review and surveys of government institutions, water utilities and farmers. It was found that 50% of the effluents were reused unplanned for agricultural irrigation on 247.25 ha of land. This is a 58% increase over an estimate made in 2002. The main crops irrigated were bananas, tobacco and fodder. Reuse was welcomed by farmers because it increased their income by 1.9 times. Farmers felt that government should set up programmes to control water reuse to make the practice more reliable and to increase access to treated wastewater. For water utilities, reuse was of interest as there are currently no funds available to treat wastewater to a tertiary level to control the eutrophication of surface water or to properly disinfect the effluents to meet national standards. Our results led the government institutions to consider reuse as an interesting option to control eutrophication and to improve livelihoods for farmers, provided the procedures for application of the treated wastewater are improved.
An integrated energy, carbon, water, and economic analysis of reclaimed water use in urban settings: a case study of Austin, Texas
Authors: Stillwell Ashlynn S. , Twomey Kelly M. , Osborne Rusty , Greene David M. , Pedersen Dan W. , Webber Michael E.
Published: February 2012

As water supplies become strained, some municipalities have turned to reclaimed water as a potential source to meet non-potable needs. Such reclaimed water – wastewater effluent treated to appropriate quality standards – is not suitable for human consumption without additional treatment, but can be used for purposes such as irrigation and cooling. One reclaimed water distribution system of particular interest is at the University of Texas at Austin (UT), USA, which receives treated effluent from City of Austin wastewater treatment plants. Depending on the embedded energy of existing water sources, existing levels of wastewater treatment, and the extent of the relevant distribution network, water reuse can save energy and carbon emissions compared with conventional drinking water distribution systems, at the expense of higher capital costs. Our analysis uses EPANet modeling software and historical datasets to examine the embedded energy and carbon emissions in drinking water and reclaimed water for non-potable applications at UT. We then examine the overall economics of reclaimed water use, including capital and operating costs for a variety of amortization periods, financing costs, and externality costs using a levelized-cost of water methodology. This integrated analysis serves as the basis for developing principles of sustainable water reuse.
Epitaxial growth by monolayer restricted galvanic displacement
Authors: Vasilic Rastko
Published: February 2012

The development of a new method for epitaxial growth of metals in solution by
galvanic displacement of layers pre-deposited by underpotential deposition
(UPD) was discussed and experimentally illustrated throughout the lecture.
Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) are employed
to carry out and monitor a ?quasi-perfect?, two-dimensional growth of Ag on
Au(111), Cu on Ag(111), and Cu on Au(111) by repetitive galvanic displacement
of underpotentially deposited monolayers. A comparative study emphasizes the
displacement stoichiometry as an efficient tool for thickness control during
the deposition process and as a key parameter that affects the deposit
morphology. The excellent quality of layers deposited by monolayer-restricted
galvanic displacement is manifested by a steady UPD voltammetry and
ascertained by a flat and uniform surface morphology maintained during the
entire growth process.
Bioactives of Artemisia dracunculus L. Mitigate the Role of Ceramides in Attenuating Insulin Signaling in Rat Skeletal Muscle Cells
Authors: Obanda Diana N. , Hernandez Amy , Ribnicky David , Yu Yongmei , Zhang Xian H. , Wang Zhong Q. , Cefalu William T.
Published: February 2012

Ectopic lipids in peripheral tissues have been implicated in attenuating insulin action in vivo. The botanical extract of Artemisia dracunculus L. (PMI 5011) improves insulin action, yet the precise mechanism is not known. We sought to determine whether the mechanism by which PMI 5011 improves insulin signaling is through regulation of lipid metabolism. After differentiation, cells were separately preincubated with free fatty acids (FFAs) and ceramide C2, and the effects on glycogen content, insulin signaling, and ceramide profiles were determined. The effect of PMI 5011 on ceramide accumulation and ceramide-induced inhibition of insulin signaling was evaluated. FFAs resulted in increased levels of total ceramides and ceramide species in L6 myotubes. Saturated FFAs and ceramide C2 inhibited insulin-stimulated phosphorylation of protein kinase B/Akt and reduced glycogen content. PMI 5011 had no effect on ceramide formation or accumulation but increased insulin sensitivity via restoration of Akt phosphorylation. PMI 5011 also attenuated the FFA-induced upregulation of a negative inhibitor of insulin signaling, i.e., protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B), and increased phosphorylation of PTP1B. PMI 5011 attenuates the reduction in insulin signaling induced by ceramide accumulation, but the mechanism of improved insulin signaling is independent of ceramide formation.
Cannabinoid 1 Receptor Promotes Cardiac Dysfunction, Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Fibrosis in Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Rajesh Mohanraj , Bátkai Sándor , Kechrid Malek , Mukhopadhyay Partha , Lee Wen-Shin , Horváth Béla , Holovac Eileen , Cinar Resat , Liaudet Lucas , Mackie Ken , Haskó György , Pacher Pál
Published: February 2012

Endocannabinoids and cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptors have been implicated in cardiac dysfunction, inflammation, and cell death associated with various forms of shock, heart failure, and atherosclerosis, in addition to their recognized role in the development of various cardiovascular risk factors in obesity/metabolic syndrome and diabetes. In this study, we explored the role of CB1 receptors in myocardial dysfunction, inflammation, oxidative/nitrative stress, cell death, and interrelated signaling pathways, using a mouse model of type 1 diabetic cardiomyopathy. Diabetic cardiomyopathy was characterized by increased myocardial endocannabinoid anandamide levels, oxidative/nitrative stress, activation of p38/Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), enhanced inflammation (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, cyclooxygenase 2, intracellular adhesion molecule 1, and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1), increased expression of CB1, advanced glycation end product (AGE) and angiotensin II type 1 receptors (receptor for advanced glycation end product [RAGE], angiotensin II receptor type 1 [AT1R]), p47(phox) NADPH oxidase subunit, β-myosin heavy chain isozyme switch, accumulation of AGE, fibrosis, and decreased expression of sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2a). Pharmacological inhibition or genetic deletion of CB1 receptors attenuated the diabetes-induced cardiac dysfunction and the above-mentioned pathological alterations. Activation of CB1 receptors by endocannabinoids may play an important role in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy by facilitating MAPK activation, AT1R expression/signaling, AGE accumulation, oxidative/nitrative stress, inflammation, and fibrosis. Conversely, CB1 receptor inhibition may be beneficial in the treatment of diabetic cardiovascular complications.
Reversal of Type 1 Diabetes in Mice by Brown Adipose Tissue Transplant
Authors: Gunawardana Subhadra C. , Piston David W.
Published: February 2012

Current therapies for type 1 diabetes (T1D) involve insulin replacement or transplantation of insulin-secreting tissue, both of which suffer from numerous limitations and complications. Here, we show that subcutaneous transplants of embryonic brown adipose tissue (BAT) can correct T1D in streptozotocin-treated mice (both immune competent and immune deficient) with severely impaired glucose tolerance and significant loss of adipose tissue. BAT transplants result in euglycemia, normalized glucose tolerance, reduced tissue inflammation, and reversal of clinical diabetes markers such as polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. These effects are independent of insulin but correlate with recovery of the animals’ white adipose tissue. BAT transplants lead to significant increases in adiponectin and leptin, but with levels that are static and not responsive to glucose. Pharmacological blockade of the insulin receptor in BAT transplant mice leads to impaired glucose tolerance, similar to what is seen in nondiabetic animals, indicating that insulin receptor activity plays a role in the reversal of diabetes. One possible candidate for activating the insulin receptor is IGF-1, whose levels are also significantly elevated in BAT transplant mice. Thus, we propose that the combined action of multiple adipokines establishes a new equilibrium in the animal that allows for chronic glycemic control without insulin.
The Role of FOXO and PPAR Transcription Factors in Diet-Mediated Inhibition of PDC Activation and Carbohydrate Oxidation During Exercise in Humans and the Role of Pharmacological Activation of PDC in Overriding These Changes
Authors: Constantin-Teodosiu Dumitru , Constantin Despina , Stephens Francis , Laithwaite David , Greenhaff Paul L.
Published: February 2012

High-fat feeding inhibits pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC)–controlled carbohydrate (CHO) oxidation, which contributes to muscle insulin resistance. We aimed to reveal molecular changes underpinning this process in resting and exercising humans. We also tested whether pharmacological activation of PDC overrides these diet-induced changes. Healthy males consumed a control diet (CD) and on two further occasions an isocaloric high-fat diet (HFD). After each diet, subjects cycled for 60 min after intravenous infusion with saline (CD and HFD) or dichloroacetate (HFD+DCA). Quadriceps muscle biopsies obtained before and after 10 and 60 min of exercise were used to estimate CHO use, PDC activation, and mRNAs associated with insulin, fat, and CHO signaling. Compared with CD, HFD increased resting pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 2 (PDK2), PDK4, forkhead box class O transcription factor 1 (FOXO1), and peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor transcription factor α (PPARα) mRNA and reduced PDC activation. Exercise increased PDC activation and whole-body CHO use in HFD, but to a lower extent than in CD. Meanwhile PDK4 and FOXO1, but not PPARα or PDK2, mRNA remained elevated. HFD+DCA activated PDC throughout and restored whole-body CHO use during exercise. FOXO1 appears to play a role in HFD-mediated muscle PDK4 upregulation and inhibition of PDC and CHO oxidation in humans. Also, pharmacological activation of PDC restores HFD-mediated inhibition of CHO oxidation during exercise.
miR-33a Modulates ABCA1 Expression, Cholesterol Accumulation, and Insulin Secretion in Pancreatic Islets
Authors: Wijesekara Nadeeja , Zhang Lin-hua , Kang Martin H. , Abraham Thomas , Bhattacharjee Alpana , Warnock Garth L. , Verchere C. Bruce , Hayden Michael R.
Published: February 2012

Changes in cellular cholesterol affect insulin secretion, and β-cell–specific deletion or loss-of-function mutations in the cholesterol efflux transporter ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) result in impaired glucose tolerance and β-cell dysfunction. Upregulation of ABCA1 expression may therefore be beneficial for the maintenance of normal islet function in diabetes. Studies suggest that microRNA-33a (miR-33a) expression inversely correlates with ABCA1 expression in hepatocytes and macrophages. We examined whether miR-33a regulates ABCA1 expression in pancreatic islets, thereby affecting cholesterol accumulation and insulin secretion. Adenoviral miR-33a overexpression in human or mouse islets reduced ABCA1 expression, decreased glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, and increased cholesterol levels. The miR-33a–induced reduction in insulin secretion was rescued by cholesterol depletion by methyl-β-cyclodextrin or mevastatin. Inhibition of miR-33a expression in apolipoprotein E knockout islets and ABCA1 overexpression in β-cell–specific ABCA1 knockout islets rescued normal insulin secretion and reduced islet cholesterol. These findings confirm the critical role of β-cell ABCA1 in islet cholesterol homeostasis and β-cell function and highlight modulation of β-cell miR-33a expression as a means to influence insulin secretion.
Nicotine Induces Negative Energy Balance Through Hypothalamic AMP-Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Martínez de Morentin Pablo B. , Whittle Andrew J. , Fernø Johan , Nogueiras Rubén , Diéguez Carlos , Vidal-Puig Antonio , López Miguel
Published: February 2012

Smokers around the world commonly report increased body weight after smoking cessation as a major factor that interferes with their attempts to quit. Numerous controlled studies in both humans and rodents have reported that nicotine exerts a marked anorectic action. The effects of nicotine on energy homeostasis have been mostly pinpointed in the central nervous system, but the molecular mechanisms controlling its action are still not fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nicotine on hypothalamic AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and its effect on energy balance. Here we demonstrate that nicotine-induced weight loss is associated with inactivation of hypothalamic AMPK, decreased orexigenic signaling in the hypothalamus, increased energy expenditure as a result of increased locomotor activity, increased thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue (BAT), and alterations in fuel substrate utilization. Conversely, nicotine withdrawal or genetic activation of hypothalamic AMPK in the ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus reversed nicotine-induced negative energy balance. Overall these data demonstrate that the effects of nicotine on energy balance involve specific modulation of the hypothalamic AMPK-BAT axis. These targets may be relevant for the development of new therapies for human obesity.
Effects of Non-HLA Gene Polymorphisms on Development of Islet Autoimmunity and Type 1 Diabetes in a Population With High-Risk HLA-DR,DQ Genotypes
Authors: Steck Andrea K. , Wong Randall , Wagner Brandie , Johnson Kelly , Liu Edwin , Romanos Jihane , Wijmenga Cisca , Norris Jill M. , Eisenbarth George S. , Rewers Marian J.
Published: February 2012

We assessed the effects of non-HLA gene polymorphisms on the risk of islet autoimmunity (IA) and progression to type 1 diabetes in the Diabetes Autoimmunity Study in the Young. A total of 1,743 non-Hispanic, white children were included: 861 first-degree relatives and 882 general population children identified as having high-risk HLA-DR/DQ genotypes for type 1 diabetes. Of those, 109 developed IA and 61 progressed to diabetes. Study participants were genotyped for 20 non-HLA polymorphisms, previously confirmed as type 1 diabetes susceptibility loci. PTPN22 and UBASH3A predicted both IA and diabetes in regression models controlling for family history of type 1 diabetes and presence of HLA-DR3/4-DQB1*0302 genotype. In addition, PTPN2 predicted IA whereas INS predicted type 1 diabetes. The final multivariate regression models for both IA and type 1 diabetes included PTPN22, UBASH3A, and INS, in addition to family history of type 1 diabetes and HLA-DR3/4. In general population children, the most frequent combinations including these five significant predictors conferred hazard ratio of up to 13 for IA and >40 for type 1 diabetes. Non-HLA susceptibility alleles may help estimate risk for development of type 1 diabetes in the general population. These findings require replication in different populations.
Genetic Predisposition to Dyslipidemia and Type 2 Diabetes Risk in Two Prospective Cohorts
Authors: Qi Qibin , Liang Liming , Doria Alessandro , Hu Frank B. , Qi Lu
Published: February 2012

Dyslipidemia has been associated with type 2 diabetes, but it remains unclear whether dyslipidemia plays a causal role in type 2 diabetes. We aimed to examine the association between the genetic predisposition to dyslipdemia and type 2 diabetes risk. The current study included 2,447 patients with type 2 diabetes and 3,052 control participants of European ancestry from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-up Study. Genetic predisposition to dyslipidemia was estimated by three genotype scores of lipids (LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides) on the basis of the established loci for blood lipids. Linear relation analysis indicated that the HDL cholesterol and triglyceride genotype scores, but not the LDL cholesterol genotype score, were linearly related to elevated type 2 diabetes risk. Each point of the HDL cholesterol and triglyceride genotype scores was associated with a 3% (odds ratio [OR] 1.03 [95% CI 1.01–1.04]) and a 2% (1.02 [1.00–1.04]) increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, respectively. The ORs were 1.39 (1.17–1.65) and 1.19 (1.01–1.41) for type 2 diabetes by comparing extreme quartiles of the HDL cholesterol genotype score and triglyceride genotype score, respectively. In conclusion, genetic predisposition to low HDL cholesterol or high triglycerides is related to elevated type 2 diabetes risk.
Detection of Diabetic Sensorimotor Polyneuropathy by Corneal Confocal Microscopy in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Ahmed Ausma , Bril Vera , Orszag Andrej , Paulson Jenna , Yeung Emily , Ngo Mylan , Orlov Steven , Perkins Bruce A.
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to determine the corneal confocal microscopy (CCM) parameter that best identifies diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy (DSP) in type 1 diabetes and to describe its performance characteristics.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Concurrent with clinical and electrophysiological examination for classification of DSP, CCM was performed on 89 type 1 diabetic and 64 healthy subjects to determine corneal nerve fiber length (CNFL), density, tortuosity, and branch density. Area under the curve (AUC) and optimal thresholds for DSP identification in those with diabetes were determined by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

RESULTS

DSP was present in 33 (37%) subjects. With the exception of tortuosity, CCM parameters were significantly lower in DSP case subjects. In ROC curve analysis, AUC was greatest for CNFL (0.88) compared with fiber density (0.84, P = 0.0001), branch density (0.73, P < 0.0001), and tortuosity (0.55, P < 0.0001). The threshold value that optimized sensitivity and specificity for ruling in DSP was a CNFL of ≤14.0 mm/mm2 (sensitivity 85%, specificity 84%), associated with positive and negative likelihood ratios of 5.3 and 0.18. An alternate approach that used separate threshold values maximized sensitivity (threshold value ≥15.8 mm/mm2, sensitivity 91%, negative likelihood ratio 0.16) and specificity (≤11.5 mm/mm2, specificity 93%, positive likelihood ratio 8.5).

CONCLUSIONS

Among CCM parameters, CNFL best discriminated DSP cases from control subjects. A single threshold offers clinically acceptable operating characteristics, although a strategy that uses separate thresholds to respectively rule in and rule out DSP has excellent performance while minimizing unclassified subjects. We hypothesize that values between these thresholds indicate incipient nerve injury that represents those individuals at future neuropathy risk.
Role of vitamin E-acetate on cisplatin induced genotoxicity: An in vivo analysis
Authors: Mazumdar Mehnaz , Giri Sarbani , Roy Saptadeepa
Published: February 2012

Vitamin E has generated immense interest because of its potential of being an antioxidant, a neuroprotector, and a protector against atherosclerosis, carcinogenesis and cardiovascular disease. However, the prooxidant chemistry of vitamin E cannot be ignored since it is related to the generation of peroxyl radicals. In the present study, 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg of vitamin E-acetate (VE) administered intraperitoneally (i.p.) to Balb/C mice significantly induced 6%, 8% and 11.33% (control value=2.33%) of chromosome aberrations (CA) and 0.88%, 1.39% and 1.81% (control value=0.61%) of micronucleus (MN), following 24 hour of treatment in the bone marrow cells. In the germ cells, VE did not induce any sperm head abnormality (SHA) after 35 days of exposure. Most importantly, it has been observed that pre-treatment with VE significantly reduces CA, MN, and SHA induction by chemotherapeutic drug cisplatin (CIS). Our findings suggest that lone treatment with VE induce genotoxicity in somatic cells after 24 and 48 hours of exposure but not in germ cells after 35 days of exposure, whereas pre-treatment with VE reduces CIS induced genotoxicity as well as cytotoxicity. There exists a thin line of difference on the behavioral transition of VE when acting alone and when acting with a drug.
Gene polymorphisms in patients with type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Demova Hana , Boleckova Jana , Rose Daniela , Koeppel Hannes , Prochazka Bohumir , Brunerova Ludmila , Rychlik Ivan , Cerna Marie
Published: February 2012

A considerable variability in the incidence and prevalence of diabetic nephropathy (DN) coheres with an important contribution of multigenetic predisposition in the development of DN. Some genes, which probably participate in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy, also play a role in the regulation of blood pressure, familial hyperlipidemia, familial hypertension and other diseases of the cardiovascular system. We have examined the association of diabetic nephropathy, nephropathy of non-diabetic origin, hypertension and of type 2 diabetes itself with several genetic polymorphisms (the insertion/deletion polymorphism in the gene for angiotensin-converting enzyme, the G/T polymorphism in the glucose transporter 1 gene, the G/T (894) polymorphism and the T/C (−786) polymorphism in the eNOS gene in three groups of patients with diabetes mellitus: 1) patients without diabetic nephropathy (DM); 2) patients with DN; 3) patients with nephropathy of non-diabetic origin (NDRD). Angiotensin-converting enzyme is an important factor in a development of arterial hypertension, but in our groups of Central European diabetic patients the I/D polymorphism was not associated with diabetic nephropathy. Furthermore, we have confirmed that the T/C (T786C) polymorphism in the eNOS gene is associated with metabolic syndrome including type 2 diabetes.
On-line cell lysis of bacteria and its spores using a microfluidic biochip
Authors: Cíchová Marianna , Prokšová Miloslava , Tóthová Lívia , Sántha Hunor , Mayer Viktor
Published: February 2012

Optimal detection of pathogens by molecular methods in water samples depends on the ability to extract DNA rapidly and efficiently. In this study, an innovative method was developed using a microfluidic biochip, produced by microelectrochemical system technology, and capable of performing online cell lysis and DNA extraction during a continuous flow process. On-chip cell lysis based on chemical/physical methods was performed by employing a sufficient blend of water with the lysing buffer. The efficiency of lysis with microfluidic biochip was compared with thermal lysis in Eppendorf tubes and with two commercial DNA extraction kits: Power Water DNA isolation kit and ForensicGEM Saliva isolation kit in parallel tests. Two lysing buffers containing 1% Triton X-100 or 5% Chelex were assessed for their lysis effectiveness on a microfluidic biochip. SYBR Green real-time PCR analysis revealed that cell lysis on a microfluidic biochip using 5% Chelex buffer provided better or comparable recovery of DNA than commercial isolation kits. The system yielded better results for Gram-positive bacteria than for Gram-negative bacteria and spores of Gram-positive bacteria, within the limits of detection at 103 CFU/ml. During the continuous flow process in the system, rapid cells lysis with PCR-amplifiable genomic DNA were achieved within 20 minutes.
Species diversity of keratinophilic fungi in various soil types
Authors: Bohacz Justyna , Korniłłowicz-Kowalska Teresa
Published: February 2012

Keratinophilic fungi are a highly specialized, keratin-degrading ecological group. They live in natural environments, mostly in the keratinrich remains of dead animal in the soil. We investigated species diversity in four types of soils with different physico-chemical properties. The strain material was identified based on morphological characters. Different representatives of Chrysosporium and geophilic dermatophytes dominated depending on soil pH. Geophilic dermatophytes were represented by one species, Trichophyton ajelloi, and the Chrysosporium group was represented by Chrysosporium keratinophilum. The frequency of Trichophyton ajelloi increased with an increase in pH, and it reached the maximum in strongly acidic soil (podzol), unlike the Chrysosporium group. The frequency of Chrysosporium keratinophilum was positively correlated with the content of humus, nitrogen, CaCO3 and phosphorus in the soils.
Spread and population structure of Cryphonectria parasitica in a young chestnut orchard in Slovakia
Authors: Adamčíková Katarína , Kobza Marek , Bolvanský Milan , Ondrušková Emília
Published: February 2012

The chestnut blight pathogen Cryphonectria parasitica was studied in a chestnut collection composed of both seedlings and grafts derived from selected Castanea sativa and C. sativa × C. crenata trees located in south-east Slovakia, near village Príbelce on an area of approximately 3.5 ha. The study was conducted during eight years (2003–2010). During this period 133 trees were infected, which represents 59.82% of chestnut trees of all chestnut accessions. Based on the phenotype of the fungus culture and the type of cankers in the field, all isolates were determined to be virulent. No hypovirulent strains were found. No vegetative compatibility (vc) type diversity was observed. More than 130 isolates were analyzed for vc and all were in single vc type, which was identical with EU 12. All isolates assayed for mating type were MAT-1. No perithecia were observed. No significant differences were found between the proportion of cankered and dead cankered trees in seedlings and grafts of hybrid origin (C. sativa × C. crenata) and of C. sativa origin. However, particular seedlings and grafts of hybrid origin seemed to exhibit certain resistance to chestnut blight.
The mycobiota of landfill leachates in the pretreatment process in a sequencing batch reactor
Authors: Szyłak-Szydłowski Mirosław , Korniłłowicz-Kowalska Teresa
Published: February 2012

The paper discusses the dynamics of the accumulation of microscopic fungi, depending on the sludge load (Bx), in activated sludge used for landfill leachate pretreatment. The propagule washout from the sludge into pretreated leachates is determined, including genera and species that may threaten environmental health. An increased accumulation of microscopic fungi in sludge flocs occurred at Bx=0.23−0.45 mg chemical oxygen demand (COD) mg−1 d−1. Microscopic fungi were eluted at the maximal Bx value tested of 1.64 mg COD mg−1 d−1. Both the activated sludge and the leachate runoff from the sequencing batch reactor (SBR) pose health risks to the environment due to the occurrence of fungi such as Aspergillus fumigatus, Purpureocillium lilacinum, Cyberlindnera jadinii (C. utilis), Geotrichum candidum and G. fragrans. Their count is sufficient to cause multi-organ infections in homeothermal animals and in humans.
Heavy metal content in halophytic plants from inland and maritime saline areas
Authors: Milić Dubravka , Luković Jadranka , Ninkov Jordana , Zeremski-Škorić Tijana , Zorić Lana , Vasin Jovica , Milić Stanko
Published: February 2012

We investigated the concentration of Aluminium (Al), Cobalt (Co), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni) and Zinc (Zn) in the root and aboveground organs of four halophyte species (Salicornia europaea, Suaeda maritima, Salsola soda and Halimione portulacoides), as well as in the soil from maritime and inland saline areas. The aim of our research was to evaluate the capability of some halophyte species to absorb different heavy metals and to detect differentiation of heavy metal accumulation within populations from inland and maritime saline areas. Generally, the plant roots had significantly higher concentrations of metals when compared to stems and leaves. Zinc was the only metal with concentrations significantly higher in the leaves than in the root and stem. Populations from maritime saline areas had higher trace root and stem metal concentrations than populations from inland saline areas. Excepting zinc, populations from inland saline areas had higher heavy metal concentrations in the leaves. The factors that affected metal accumulation by halophytes included the percentage of salt in the soil. We also discuss the potential use of these halophytes in phytoremediation.