bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Common bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.) PvTIFY orchestrates global changes in transcript profile response to jasmonate and phosphorus deficiency
Authors: Aparicio-Fabre Rosaura , Guillén Gabriel , Loredo Montserrat , Arellano Jesús , Valdés-López Oswaldo , Ramírez Mario , Íñiguez Luis P , Panzeri Dario , Castiglioni Bianca , Cremonesi Paola , Strozzi Francesco , Stella Alessandra , Girard Lourdes , Sparvoli Francesca , Hernández Georgina
Published: February 2013

Background

TIFY is a large plant-specific transcription factor gene family. A subgroup of TIFY genes named JAZ (Jasmonate-ZIM domain) has been identified as repressors of jasmonate (JA)-regulated transcription in Arabidopsis and other plants. JA signaling is involved in many aspects of plant growth/development and in defense responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. Here, we identified the TIFY genes (designated PvTIFY) from the legume common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) and functionally characterized PvTIFY10C as a transcriptional regulator.

Results

Nineteen genes from the PvTIFY gene family were identified through whole-genome sequence analysis. Most of these were induced upon methyl-JA elicitation. We selected PvTIFY10C as a representative JA-responsive PvTIFY gene for further functional analysis. Transcriptome analysis via microarray hybridization using the newly designed Bean Custom Array 90 K was performed on transgenic roots of composite plants with modulated (RNAi-silencing or over-expression) PvTIFY10C gene expression. Data were interpreted using Gene Ontology and MapMan adapted to common bean. Microarray differential gene expression data were validated by real-time qRT-PCR expression analysis. Comparative global gene expression analysis revealed opposite regulatory changes in processes such as RNA and protein regulation, stress responses and metabolism in PvTIFY10C silenced vs. over-expressing roots. These data point to transcript reprogramming (mainly repression) orchestrated by PvTIFY10C. In addition, we found that several PvTIFY genes, as well as genes from the JA biosynthetic pathway, responded to P-deficiency. Relevant P-responsive genes that participate in carbon metabolic pathways, cell wall synthesis, lipid metabolism, transport, DNA, RNA and protein regulation, and signaling were oppositely-regulated in control vs. PvTIFY10C-silenced roots of composite plants under P-stress. These data indicate that PvTIFY10C regulates, directly or indirectly, the expression of some P-responsive genes; this process could be mediated by JA-signaling.

Conclusion

Our work contributes to the functional characterization of PvTIFY transcriptional regulators in common bean, an agronomically important legume. Members from the large PvTIFY gene family are important global transcriptional regulators that could participate as repressors in the JA signaling pathway. In addition, we propose that the JA-signaling pathway involving PvTIFY genes might play a role in regulating the plant response/adaptation to P-starvation.
Application of neural oscillators to study the effects of walking speed on rhythmic activations at the ankle
Authors: Chong Sook-Yee , Wagner Heiko , Wulf Arne
Published: February 2013

Background

Spinal pattern generators (SPG) are neural networks in the spinal cord that do not require a central input from the brain to generate a motor output. We wanted to determine whether SPG can adapt to the changing motor demands from walking at different speeds, and performing silly walks.

Methods

An SPG model consisting of an oscillator made up of two neurons was utilised in this study; one neuron activates the soleus and the other activates the tibialis anterior. The outputs of the SPG model therefore represent the electromyographic measurements from each muscle. Seven healthy subjects were requested to perform silly walks, normal walking at self-selected speed (4.8 ± 0.5 km/h), 3.5 km/h, 4.0 km/h and 4.5 km/h on a treadmill. Loading and hip angles were used as inputs into the model.

Results

No significant differences in the model parameters were found between normal walking at self-selected speed and other walking speeds. Only the adaptation time constant for the ankle flexor during silly walks was significantly different from the other normal walking trials.

Conclusion

We showed that SPG in the spinal cord can interpret and respond accordingly to velocity-dependent afferent information. Changes in walking speed do not require a different motor control mechanism provided there is no disruption to the alternating muscular activations generated at the ankle.
Basic surface-active properties in the homologous series of β-alkyl (C12H25/C18H37) polyethyleneoxy (n = 0-20) propionamides
Authors: Riviş Adrian , Bujanca Gabriel , Traşcă Teodor
Published: February 2013

Background

Heterogeneous β-Alkyl (C12H25/C18H37) polyethyleneoxy (n = 0-20) propionamides [R(EO)nPD] represent new “hybrid” nonionic-ionic colloidal structures in the field of surface-active products (technical products). These “niche” compounds have three structural and compositional characteristics that also define their basic colloidal properties: mixture of R and PEO chain homologues; specific conformations due to the PEO chains; and the presence of side products from the addition of higher alcohols, polyethyleneglycols and traces of water to acrylamide. The proposed major objective of this paper is the basic informative colloidal characterization (functional classification, HLB balance, surface tension, critical micelle concentration) in direct correlation with the structural changes in the homologous series of LM(EO)nPD and CS(EO)nPD. The structures were obtained either indirectly by cyanoethylation followed by partial acid hydrolysis of the corresponding β-propionitriles, or directly by the nucleophilic addition under alkaline catalysis of linear higher alcohols C12H25/C14H29 (7/3) (LM) and C16H33/C18H37 (CS) as such and heterogeneous polyethoxylated (n = 3-20) to acrylamide monomer, through an adapted classic reaction scheme.

Results

In the series of basic colloidal characteristics investigated the structure-surface activity dependence is confirmed. Their indicative character for R(EO)nPD is based on the assumption that the structures studied are not unitary (heterogeneous) because: a) the hydrophobic chains C12H25/C18H37 have been grouped in two variants, C12H25/C14H29 (LM); C16H33/C18H37 (CS), each with an internal mass ratio of 7/3; b) the hydrophilic polyoxyethylene chains (n = 3-20) have polydisperse character; the meaning and value the oligomerization degree, n, is that of weighted average. In these conditions the surface tension increases proportionally with the oligomerization degree of the polyoxyethylene chain, while the critical micelle concentration decreases in the same homologous series as well as with the increase of the hydrophobic chain in the C12H25 to C18H37 series. A mechanism of micellization is proposed, consistent with the experimental data recorded and the hypotheses known from the consulted literature.

Conclusions

The idea of the obtaining and basic colloidal characterization of heterogeneous R(EO)nPD is justified. The knowledge and constructive approach of the heterogeneous character confirm the basic surface-active potential of R(EO)nPD, the structure-colloidal characteristics dependence and justifies further, more extensive research.
Transporter engineering for improved tolerance against alkane biofuels in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Chen Binbin , Ling Hua , Chang Matthew Wook
Published: February 2013

Background

Hydrocarbon alkanes, components of major fossil fuels, are considered as next-generation biofuels because their biological production has recently been shown to be possible. However, high-yield alkane production requires robust host cells that are tolerant against alkanes, which exhibit cytotoxicity. In this study, we aimed to improve alkane tolerance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a key industrial microbial host, by harnessing heterologous transporters that potentially pump out alkanes.

Results

To this end, we attempted to exploit ABC transporters in Yarrowia lipolytica based on the observation that it utilizes alkanes as a carbon source. We confirmed the increased transcription of ABC2 and ABC3 transporters upon exposure to a range of alkanes in Y. lipolytica. We then showed that the heterologous expression of ABC2 and ABC3 transporters significantly increased tolerance against decane and undecane in S. cerevisiae through maintaining lower intracellular alkane level. In particular, ABC2 transporter increased the tolerance limit of S. cerevisiae about 80-fold against decane. Furthermore, through site-directed mutagenesis for glutamate (E988 for ABC2, and E989 for ABC3) and histidine (H1020 for ABC2, and H1021 for ABC3), we provided the evidence that glutamate was essential for the activity of ABC2 and ABC3 transporters, with ATP most likely to be hydrolyzed by a catalytic carboxylate mechanism.

Conclusions

Here, we demonstrated that transporter engineering through expression of heterologous efflux pumps led to significantly improved tolerance against alkane biofuels in S. cerevisiae. We believe that our results laid the groundwork for developing robust alkane-producing yeast cells through transporter engineering, which will greatly aid in next-generation alkane biofuel production and recovery.
Liver transplantation in the critically ill: a multicenter Canadian retrospective cohort study
Authors: Karvellas Constantine J , Lescot Thomas , Goldberg Peter , Sharpe Michael D , Ronco Juan J , Renner Eberhard L , Vahidy Hina , Poonja Zafrina , Chaudhury Prosanto , Kneteman Norman M , Selzner Markus , Cook Earl F , Bagshaw Sean M ,   the Canadian Liver Failure Study Group
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Critically ill cirrhosis patients awaiting liver transplantation (LT) often receive prioritization for organ allocation. Identification of patients most likely to benefit is essential. The purpose of this study was to examine whether the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score can predict 90-day mortality in critically ill recipients of LT and whether it can predict receipt of LT among critically ill cirrhosis listed awaiting LT.

Methods

We performed a multicenter retrospective cohort study consisting of two datasets: (a) all critically-ill cirrhosis patients requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission before LT at five transplant centers in Canada from 2000 through 2009 (one site, 1990 through 2009), and (b) critically ill cirrhosis patients receiving LT from ICU (n = 115) and those listed but not receiving LT before death (n = 106) from two centers where complete data were available.

Results

In the first dataset, 198 critically ill cirrhosis patients receiving LT (mean (SD) age 53 (10) years, 66% male, median (IQR) model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) 34 (26-39)) were included. Mean (SD) SOFA scores at ICU admission, at 48 hours, and at LT were 12.5 (4), 13.0 (5), and 14.0 (4). Survival at 90 days was 84% (n = 166). In multivariable analysis, only older age was independently associated with reduced 90-day survival (odds ratio (OR), 1.07; 95% CI, 1.01 to 1.14; P = 0.013). SOFA score did not predict 90-day mortality at any time. In the second dataset, 47.9% (n = 106) of cirrhosis patients listed for LT died in the ICU waiting for LT. In multivariable analysis, higher SOFA at 48 hours after admission was independently associated with lower probability of receiving LT (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.82 to 0.97; P = 0.006). When including serum lactate and SOFA at 48 hours in the final model, elevated lactate (at 48 hours) was also significantly associated with lower likelihood of receiving LT (0.32; 0.17 to 0.61; P = 0.001).

Conclusions

SOFA appears poor at predicting 90-day survival in critically ill cirrhosis patients after LT, but higher SOFA score and elevated lactate 48 hours after ICU admission are associated with a lower probability receiving LT. Older critically ill cirrhosis patients (older than 60) receiving LT have worse 90-day survival and should be considered for LT with caution.
Risk Aversion, Indivisible Timing Options, and Gambling
Authors: Henderson Vicky , Hobson David
Published: February 2013

In this paper we model the behavior of a risk-averse agent who seeks to maximize expected utility and who has an indivisible asset and a timing option over when to sell this asset. Our main contribution is to show that, contrary to intuition, optimal behavior for such a risk-averse agent can include risk-increasing gambles. For example, a manager with a choice over when to disinvest from a project, a private homeowner with a property to sell, or an employee with a grant of American-style stock options may be better off taking positions in other assets with zero Sharpe ratio that are uncorrelated with the underlying project, house, or stock price risk. The results have wider implications for the modeling and interpretation of portfolio optimization problems involving American-style timing decisions.
Fairness, Efficiency, and Flexibility in Organ Allocation for Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Bertsimas Dimitris , Farias Vivek F. , Trichakis Nikolaos
Published: February 2013

We propose a scalable, data-driven method for designing national policies for the allocation of deceased donor kidneys to patients on a waiting list in a fair and efficient way. We focus on policies that have the same form as the one currently used in the United States. In particular, we consider policies that are based on a point system that ranks patients according to some priority criteria, e.g., waiting time, medical urgency, etc., or a combination thereof. Rather than making specific assumptions about fairness principles or priority criteria, our method offers the designer the flexibility to select his desired criteria and fairness constraints from a broad class of allowable constraints. The method then designs a point system that is based on the selected priority criteria and approximately maximizes medical efficiency—i.e., life-year gains from transplant—while simultaneously enforcing selected fairness constraints.

Among the several case studies we present employing our method, one case study designs a point system that has the same form, uses the same criteria, and satisfies the same fairness constraints as the point system that was recently proposed by U.S. policy makers. In addition, the point system we design delivers an 8% increase in extra life-year gains. We evaluate the performance of all policies under consideration using the same statistical and simulation tools and data as the U.S. policy makers use. Other case studies perform a sensitivity analysis (for instance, demonstrating that the increase in extra life-year gains by relaxing certain fairness constraints can be as high as 30%) and also pursue the design of policies targeted specifically at remedying criticisms leveled at the recent point system proposed by U.S. policy makers.
Discretion Within Constraint: Homophily and Structure in a Formal Organization
Authors: Kleinbaum Adam M. , Stuart Toby E. , Tushman Michael L.
Published: February 2013

Homophily in social relations results from both individual preferences and selective opportunities for interaction, but how these two mechanisms interact in large, contemporary organizations is not well understood. We argue that organizational structures and geography delimit opportunities for interaction such that actors have a greater level of discretion to choose their interaction partners within business units, job functions, offices, and quasi-formal structures. This leads us to expect to find a higher proportion of homophilous interactions within these organizational structures than across their boundaries. We test our theory in an analysis of the rate of dyadic communication in an email data set comprising thousands of employees in a large information technology firm. These findings have implications for research on homophily, gender relations in organizations, and formal and informal organizational structure.
CONFERENCE REVIEW
Authors: Kowolik Leopold
Published: February 2013

Craft and the New Economy Symposium, Ontario College of Art and Design University (OCADU), Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Saturday 10 March 2012
Nothing says love like a skull and crossbones tea cozy: Crafting contemporary subversive handcrafts
Authors: Winge Therèsa M. , Stalp Marybeth C.
Published: February 2013

Subversive crafters portray feminist messaging within stereotypically non-feminist (e.g. domestic) items. They express irreverence, politics and a culture of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) practices embodying irony, sarcasm, parody and humour. Drawing on 44 North American interviews and participant
observations, we explore how subversive crafts and crafters exist outside of the traditional gendered domestic context. We discuss how socio-political and sociocultural visual imagery in subversive crafts plays a role in defining contemporary handcraft culture.
Cubicle Mind versus art-making: Exploring the tensions
Authors: Ross Frances Ghee
Published: February 2013

This article explores how organizations generally marginalize artistic enquiry and reinforce what the author calls ‘Cubicle Mind’. It also examines problems and challenges to researchers in posing questions and applying methods that do not conform to the dominant mindset
of the institution or profession, whether corporations, higher education, religious organizations, the military, government or social groups. Artistic enquiry is generally approached as alternative and perhaps risky; its open-ended sense of possibilities, activities and outcomes will be contrasted
with the limitations of cubicle mind. Vignettes are drawn from the author’s experience and conversations with colleagues.
Digital terrestrial television policies in Mexico: The telecom wars
Authors: García Rodrigo Gómez , Plata Gabriel Sosa
Published: February 2013

This article analyses and discusses Mexican public policies regarding the transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television (DTT). We aim to show how digitization, in the Mexican context, can be thought of as an opportunity to change the duopolistic structure in television
in order to obtain higher quality and greater content diversity. The methodology used here consists of a structural historical analysis of communication policies with an emphasis on digital switchover, paying special attention to the social power relations that have led to the current structural
conditions of the concentrated Mexican communications system. Overall, preliminary results obtained in this research show a lack of clarity in DTT policies of the last two administrations (Vicente Fox 2000–2006 and Felipe Calderón 2006–2012) and a reinforced hegemony of
the economically dominant broadcast and telecommunications actors: Televisa, TV Azteca and Telmex, in detriment to public service, competition, local TV stations, independent production, content quality and audiences in a broader sense.
The BBc and digital policy instrumentation in the UK: Straitjackets and conveyor belts
Authors: Klontzas Michael
Published: February 2013

This article goes beyond a conventional content-centric approach to public service broadcasting (PSB), to argue that the distinctiveness of the BBC as a public servicecommunications provider lies in its historical role in delivering public policy. Unlike commercial broadcasters, who
may and often do choose to ignore economic and other incentives, the BBC is relied upon to respond to government calls for assistance in implementing key policies. Broadcasting history in the United Kingdom demonstrates the crucial involvement of the corporation in pioneering and at times
even rescuing policy initiatives, ranging from the introduction of the very first broadcasts, to the on-going push towards wholesale digitalization. The particular focus of this article is on the historical role that the BBC has been playing in order for digitalization policies to be implemented
in the United Kingdom. At risk to its autonomy and public support, it is in this context that the BBC may be considered indispensable.
Punk is punk but by no means punk: Definition, genre evasion and the quest for an authentic voice in contemporary Russia
Authors: Steinholt Yngvar Bordewich
Published: February 2013

At a recent London seminar on punk in post-socialist Eastern Europe, Penny Rimbaud made an unexpected twist to definitions, stating simply that punk ‘isn’t’. He posits punk as the equivalent of an avant-garde movement that, by its very definition,ceases to be avant-garde
from the moment its status enters its self-awareness. Although in many ways controversial, Rimbaud’s argument raises a number of interesting perspectives for our reading and understanding of punk in contemporary Russia, and for how Russian bands relate to and define punk, or try to escape
established definitions of it. Rimbaud’s paradox that punk isn’t also finds support in certain aspects of punk’s Russian history. This article investigates how a number of contemporary Russian bands relate to genre. Here it finds two main types of relationship:association
with a pre-established genre and genre evasion. What purposes do these strategies serve, and ultimately: is punk? If so, is Russian punk?
Early radio news and the origins of the risk society
Authors: Howell Perry
Published: February 2013

Specific characteristics of broadcast radio communication, especially the combination of breadth of exposure, intimacy and immediacy, provide a theoretical basis to account for the significant effects of the 1930s’ radio coverage of the Lindbergh kidnapping and trial on the cohort
group that was directly exposed. The effects of the kidnapping and its extensive news coverage are examined through the explanatory models of moral panic, risk society and para-social trauma. The public’s adoration of the Lindbergh baby allowed it a displaced participation in the intimate
life of an American hero, a pattern still commonly seen today in the high level of media attention given to the births of celebrity children. The Lindbergh baby helped the public to affirm (through millions of casual conversations, many letters to newspapers and frequent media representations)
its precious child formation at a time when economic realities threatened this ideal. In 1932, radio news coverage of the Lindbergh crime gave the audience an experience that was simultaneously more intimate and more immediate than the print-based crime news that had come before. These special
characteristics of the radio-listening experience lent a new dimension to the public’s reaction to one family’s tragedy and contributed to a profound reassessment of the level of risk the American society posed to its children. After the Lindbergh kidnapping, much of the American
public, especially American parents, would view everyday society as a much riskier place for their children.
Forum Theatre on the Air: Towards a model of participatory radio drama for development on community radio
Authors: Traynor Mary
Published: February 2013

This article proposes an enhanced model of radio drama for development, which places forum theatre on the community radio platform. The model responds to the key development priorities of democratic, multi-directional communication, participation and social advocacy. It utilizes the
mass dissemination advantages of the radio medium, the distinctive, dialogic qualities of community radio and the democratic and empowering tendencies of forum theatre to propose a prototype for fully participatory radio drama for development. The model was developed and tested during fieldwork
at community radio stations in Laos in 2010 and 2011. Forum Theatre on the Air draws on two of the major theoretical paradigms of development communication: participatory communication and entertainment-education. The model creates an argument for a greater integration of these broadly complementary
yet parallel hypotheses.
Corticosteroid-Induced Neural Remodeling Predicts Behavioral Vulnerability and Resilience
Authors: Gourley Shannon L. , Swanson Andrew M. , Koleske Anthony J.
Published: February 2013

Neurons in distinct brain regions remodel in response to postnatal stressor exposure, and structural plasticity may underlie stress-related modifications in behavioral outcomes. Given the persistence of stress-related diseases such as depression, a critical next step in identifying the contributions of neural structure to psychopathology will be to identify brain circuits and cell types that fail to recover from stressor exposure. We enumerated dendritic spines during and after chronic stress hormone exposure in hippocampal CA1, deep-layer prefrontal cortex, and the basal amygdala and also reconstructed dendritic arbors of CA1 pyramidal neurons. Corticosterone modified dendritic spine density in these regions, but with the exception of the orbitofrontal cortex, densities normalized with a recovery period. Dendritic retraction of hippocampal CA1 neurons and anhedonic-like insensitivity to a sucrose solution also persisted despite a recovery period. Using mice with reduced gene dosage ofp190rhogap, a cytoskeletal regulatory protein localized to dendritic spines, we next isolated structural correlates of both behavioral vulnerability (spine elimination) and resilience (spine proliferation) to corticosterone within the orbital cortex. Our findings provide novel empirical support for the perspective that stress-related structural reorganization of certain neuron populations can persist despite a “recovery” period from stressor exposure and that these modifications may lay a structural foundation for stressor vulnerability—or resiliency—across the lifespan.
Prominin-1 Allows Prospective Isolation of Neural Stem Cells from the Adult Murine Hippocampus
Authors: Walker Tara L. , Wierick Ann , Sykes Alex M. , Waldau Ben , Corbeil Denis , Carmeliet Peter , Kempermann Gerd
Published: February 2013

Prominin-1 (CD133) is commonly used to isolate stem and progenitor cells from the developing and adult nervous system and to identify cancer stem cells in brain tumors. However, despite extensive characterization of Prominin-1+precursor cells from the adult subventricular zone, no information about the expression of Prominin-1 by precursor cells in the subgranular zone (SGZ) of the adult hippocampus has been available. We show here that Prominin-1 is expressed by a significant number of cells in the SGZ of adult micein vivoandex vivo, including postmitotic astrocytes. A small subset of Prominin-1+cells coexpressed the nonspecific precursor cell marker Nestin as well as GFAP and Sox2. Upon fluorescence-activated cell sorting, only Prominin-1/Nestin double-positive cells fulfilled the defining stem cell criteria of proliferation, self-renewal, and multipotentiality as assessed by a neurosphere assay. In addition, isolated primary Prominin-1+cells preferentially migrated to the neurogenic niche in the SGZ upon transplantationin vivo. Finally, despite its expression by various stem and progenitor cells, Prominin-1 turned out to be dispensable for precursor cell proliferationin vitroandin vivo. Nevertheless, a net decrease in hippocampal neurogenesis, by ∼30% was found in Prominin-1 knock-out mice, suggesting other roles in controlling adult hippocampal neurogenesis. Remarkably, an upregulation of Prominin-2 was detected in Prominin-1-deficient mice highlighting a potential compensatory mechanism, which might explain the lack of severe symptoms in individuals carrying mutations in theProm1gene.
A Novel Role of Cytosolic Protein Synthesis Inhibition in Aminoglycoside Ototoxicity
Authors: Francis Shimon P. , Katz Joshua , Fanning Kathryn D. , Harris Kimberly A. , Nicholas Brian D. , Lacy Michael , Pagana James , Agris Paul F. , Shin Jung-Bum
Published: February 2013

Ototoxicity is a main dose-limiting factor in the clinical application of aminoglycoside antibiotics. Despite longstanding research efforts, our understanding of the mechanisms underlying aminoglycoside ototoxicity remains limited. Here we report the discovery of a novel stress pathway that contributes to aminoglycoside-induced hair cell degeneration. Modifying the previously developed bioorthogonal noncanonical amino acid tagging method, we used click chemistry to study the role of protein synthesis activity in aminoglycoside-induced hair cell stress. We demonstrate that aminoglycosides inhibit protein synthesis in hair cells and activate a signaling pathway similar to ribotoxic stress response, contributing to hair cell degeneration. The ability of a particular aminoglycoside to inhibit protein synthesis and to activate the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway correlated well with its ototoxic potential. Finally, we report that a Food and Drug Administration-approved drug known to inhibit ribotoxic stress response also prevents JNK activation and improves hair cell survival, opening up novel strategies to prevent and treat aminoglycoside ototoxicity.
Phylogeny and expression of the nucleocapsid gene of porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus
Authors: Yang Wei , Li Guangxing , Ren Yudong , Suo Siqingaowa , Ren Xiaofeng
Published: February 2013

Porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV) is one of the important pathogens that may cause severe diarrhoea in piglets. In this study, the nucleocapsid (N) gene of a Chinese PEDV isolate designated HLJBY was cloned. The phylogeny of PEDV strains was investigated by constructing a phylogenetic tree based on the N protein sequences. The results indicate that there are two major groups of Chinese PEDVs, a Japanese PEDV group and a Korean PEDV group. High-level expression of the N protein was achieved in Escherichia coli. The immunoreactivity between PEDV particles or the bacterially expressed N protein and rabbit anti-PEDV serum was confirmed by immunofluorescence assays and Western blot. Both PEDV N protein and the polyclonal antibody generated in this study are valuable diagnostic reagents for PEDV surveillance.
Dose-related genotoxic effect of T-2 toxin measured by comet assay using peripheral blood mononuclear cells of healthy pigs
Authors: Horvatovich Katalin , Hafner Dóra , Bodnár Zsófia , Berta Gergely , Hancz Csaba , Dutton Mike , Kovács Melinda
Published: February 2013

T-2 toxin is the most acutely toxic trichothecene mycotoxin: it inhibits protein, DNA and RNA synthesis. The main goal of this study was to evaluate the rate of DNA damage caused by T-2 toxin in porcine mononuclear cells in increasing concentrations (0.1, 0.5 and 1.0 μmol) and after two different incubation periods (24 and 42 h). The lowest concentration caused DNA damage and about 50% of the treated cells could be categorised as having 1 to 4 scores in comet assay. In parallel with the increase of T-2 toxin concentration, the frequency of intact lymphocytes decreased from 50.2% (0.1 μM) to 36.3% (1.0 μM) in the first 24 h. In case of score 3, the highest concentration of T-2 toxin resulted in a 5-fold change, as compared to the lowest dose. Cells with score 4 were found only after exposure to 1.0 μM T-2 toxin. The exposure time did not have a significant effect on the results, while concentration did (P < 0.0001). However, a significant interaction between concentration and time as fixed factors (P < 0.0001) was found. When these were combined as a single factor, the results showed a significant toxin treatment effect on the results. It was concluded that a time- and dose-dependent DNA damaging effect of T-2 toxin could be demonstrated using peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy pigs by comet assay.
A terapêutica endoscópica nas complicações biliares pós-transplante hepático
Authors: Ribeiro Jeany Borges e Silva , Martins Fabrício de Sousa , Garcia José Huygens Parente , Cunha Adriano César Costa , Pinto Ricardo Augusto Rocha , Satacaso Marcus Vallerius , Prado-Júnior Francisco Paulo Ponte , Pessoa Ricardo Rangel de Paula
Published: February 2013

RACIONAL: O transplante hepático é o único tratamento efetivo para as hepatopatias crônicas terminais e a taxa de sobrevida tem aumentado nas últimas décadas. No entanto, as complicações biliares têm alta incidência e permanecem como o "calcanhar de Aquiles" do transplante de fígado. OBJETIVO: Avaliar retrospectivamente os resultados do tratamento endoscópico das complicações biliares em pacientes submetidos à transplante hepático. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados pacientes transplantados hepáticos para realização de colangiopancreatografia retrógrada endoscópica por suspeita de complicação biliar. RESULTADOS: Quinze pacientes (11 homens, média de idade de 49,57 anos) foram estudados. Nesse período foram realizadas 36 colangiopancreatografias retrógradas endoscópicas (2,4/paciente). Neste grupo, 100% receberam órgão de doador falecido. Estenose da anastomose coledococoledocociana foi diagnosticada em 13 pacientes e o sucesso da terapêutica endoscópica foi de 53,84% (38,46% ainda em tratamento). Fístula biliar foi diagnosticada em um paciente, sendo resolvida pelo tratamento endoscópico. Disfunção da âmpola hepatopancreaticobiliar com coledocolitíase foi diagnosticada em um paciente, também resolvida pela terapêutica endoscópica. CONCLUSÕES: As complicações biliares pós-transplante hepático são relativamente comuns, com predominância de estenoses. O tratamento endoscópico foi eficaz na maioria dos pacientes desta série.
Influência do vinhoto no desenvolvimento de Stomoxys calcitrans
Authors: Leite Isabela Helena Ferreira , Carvalho Éder Batista de , Bittencourt Avelino José
Published: February 2013

Stomoxys calcitrans (Linnaeus, 1758) (Diptera: Muscidae) é conhecida por sua dolorosa picada, que causa estresse nos animais, e pela transmissão de diversas enfermidades, além de atacar o homem. Devido aos surtos ocorridos em áreas sucroalcooleiras no Brasil, onde o vinhoto é utilizado na fertirrigação dos canaviais, elaborou-se o presente estudo, que teve como objetivo verificar se o vinhoto favorece a postura e o desenvolvimento dos estádios imaturos desse inseto. Para tanto, ovos foram depositados em dieta de crescimento larval de Bailey (controle) e também em dietas com substituição de 5, 10, 20 e 30% do seu volume de água por vinhoto. Parte dos resultados foi submetida à analise de variância e as médias foram comparadas entre si pelo teste de Tukey. A outra parte foi avaliada pelo teste do Qui Quadrado. A viabilidade dos ovos foi de 66%, 64%, 69%, 80% e 20% das larvas de 96,4%, 96,9%, 95,1%, 99,3% e 97,2% e das pupas de 90,2%, 94,7%, 93,5%, 91,5% e 86,1%, respectivamente, para os grupos controle, 5, 10, 20, e 30%. O peso das larvas de terceiro estágio foi de 16,4; 16,9; 19,7; 15,8 e 18mg, e das pupas foi 12,9; 13,9; 17,4; 14,5 e 21,9mg. O período larval foi de 10,38, 11,81, 10,00, 10,86, 9,5 dias, e o pupal foi de 6,57; 6,19; 7,05; 7,00 e 6,00, respectivamente. A viabilidade dos estádios imaturos foi maior nas dietas com substituição de vinhoto. Algumas concentrações de vinhoto utilizadas nas dietas afetaram a biologia dos estádios imaturos de S. calcitrans.
Comportamento de Andropogon gayanus cv. ‘planaltina’ e Panicum maximum cv. ‘tanzânia’ sob sombreamento
Authors: Oliveira Fabiana Lopes Ramos de , Mota Verônica Alves , Ramos Maira Soares , Santos Leonardo David Tuffi , Oliveira Neide Judith Faria de , Geraseev Luciana Castro
Published: February 2013

A utilização de forrageiras tolerantes ao sombreamento é fundamental para a sustentabilidade da integração lavoura-pecuária-floresta. Estudou-se o comportamento do Panicum maximum cv. 'Tanzânia' e do Andropogon gayanus cv. 'Planaltina' sob diferentes níveis de sombreamentos e épocas de entrada sob a sombra. Utilizou-se delineamento em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições, em esquema fatorial com dois tipos de sombreamento: 30% e 50%; três épocas de entrada na sombra após transplante (07, 14 e 21 dias); e uma testemunha, mantida a pleno sol. Mudas com 8 a 12cm de altura das duas espécies, pré-cultivadas em bandejas de isopor, foram transplantadas para vasos e mantidas nos respectivos ambientes sombreados ou a pleno sol por 90 dias, em livre crescimento. A época de entrada na sombra não interferiu na produtividade e nos teores de clorofila foliar das cultivares, assim como na composição bromatológica. As massas seca e fresca das cultivares 'Tanzânia' e 'Planaltina' foram superiores em ambientes sombreados, quando comparadas ao pleno sol. As duas forrageiras, quando sombreadas, incrementaram os teores de clorofila a, porém não se observou alteração para clorofila b. A adaptação positiva em ambientes sombreados das cultivares torna-se promissora em sistemas de integração silvipastoris.
Da incoerência burocrática à eficácia de um dispositivo de supervisão/formação: estudo do desenvolvimento profissional numa situação de indução
Authors: Roldão Maria do Céu , Reis Pedro , Costa Nilza
Published: February 2013

No ano letivo de 2009-2010, a Universidade de Aveiro e o Ministério da Educação de Portugal estabeleceram um convénio para que uma equipe de investigadores coordenada pela Universidade supervisionasse, acompanhasse e investigasse o primeiro ano de implementação do ano probatório, dispositivo requerido para aceder à carreira docente em Portugal - o Programa de Supervisão, Apoio e Acompanhamento do Período Probatório de Professores (PSAAPPP). Da investigação produzida sobre os processos formativos, os resultados obtidos e as percepções dos intervenientes se dá conta no dossiê temático que integra este número da revista. Neste artigo situa-se a globalidade e contexto do Programa, a lógica que articula os diferentes artigos e o seu enquadramento no campo teórico da indução, da supervisão e do desenvolvimento profissional dos docentes.
Avaliação genética de touros pelo modelo animal, modelo touro e método das companheiras de rebanho
Authors: Verneque Rui da Silva , Martinez Mário Luiz , Teodoro Roberto Luiz , Pimentel Amaury Alípio , Ferreira William José
Published: February 2013

As capacidades previstas de transmissão (PTA) para a produção de leite de 529 touros, usando o modelo animal (MA), modelo touro (MT) e o método das companheiras de rebanho (MCR), foram calculadas e comparadas por meio da correlação de ordem e valores, da confiabilidade e das diferenças entre PTA e percentual de coincidência na seleção dos melhores touros. Considerando-se dois conjuntos de dados, um contendo até cinco lactações por vaca e outro com os dados de produção à primeira lactação, analisaram-se 12.762 lactações, de 5757 vacas da raça Gir e mestiças Gir-Holandês. Admitindo-se até cinco lactações por vaca, a correlação de ordem entre PTA previstas usando-se MA e MCR foi de 0,69; entre modelo animal e modelo touro, 0,96; e entre MCR e modelo touro, 0,73. As correlações de ordem entre as PTA usando-se MA, com até cinco lactações por vaca, e as PTA previstas pelo MCR, MT e MA, utilizando-se apenas a primeira lactação, foram 0,60; 0,76; e 0,79, respectivamente. Maiores médias de confiabilidade das PTA foram obtidas quando se usaram modelo animal e modelo touro, os quais foram semelhantes na seleção dos melhores touros, segundo os valores de PTA. A confiabilidade da prova estimada quando se usou modelo animal foi 11 a 47% maior que a estimada pelo MCR. Estas diferenças foram de, no máximo, 2%, quando se compararam os modelos animal e touro.
Crecimiento de particulas γ' en una superaleación CMSX-2
Authors: Ges A.M. , Fornaro O. , Palacio H. A.
Published: February 2013

Las superaleaciones base níquel son utilizadas en aplicaciones tecnológicas que requieren gran resistencia a altas temperaturas. Muchas de estas aleaciones son endurecidas por precipitación de una fase coherente γ'[(Al,Ti)] precipitada en una matriz FCC. Las propiedades y resistencia a los cambios microestructurales dependen de factores como: velocidad de crecimiento, distribución, fracción de volumen y tamaño de partícula, factores estos que pueden ser controlados por medio de diferentes tratamientos térmicos. El presente trabajo describe el efecto de los tratamientos térmicos de solubilizado, post-solubilizado y precipitado para producir distintos tamaños y distribución de partículas γ'[(Al,Ti)] en una superaleación CMSX-2 y posteriormente se estudió a través de diferentes tratamientos térmicos de envejecimiento a temperatura constante, la evolución, crecimiento y energía de activación para el crecimiento de las partículas precipitadas.
A participação do auxiliar em saúde bucal na equipe de saúde e o ambiente odontológico
Authors: Costa Adriana Oliva , Silva Ligia Prandi da , Saliba Orlando , Garbin Artenio José Isper , Moimaz Suzely Adas Saliba
Published: February 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: A composição da equipe de saúde bucal e as condições sanitárias e ergonômicas no ambiente de trabalho influenciam na qualidade do atendimento odontológico prestado ao paciente. OBJETIVO: Neste estudo observacional e transversal, objetivou-se verificar a participação do auxiliar na equipe odontológica do serviço público, bem como os itens relacionados com a legislação sanitária e a existência e a distribuição dos equipamentos no consultório. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: A coleta de dados foi realizada por meio de aplicação de questionários e observações nos locais de atendimento. Foram entrevistados 75 cirurgiões-dentistas de nove municípios do DRS XV - São José do Rio Preto-SP e avaliados 34 consultórios. RESULTADO: Do total de 75 cirurgiões-dentistas, 21 (28%) trabalhavam sozinhos, sendo seis (29%) em escolas e 15 (71%) em UBS. Dos 34 consultórios, dois (6%) não apresentavam qualquer equipamento de esterilização e, dos que possuíam, a autoclave era o meio mais utilizado, em número de 15 (44%). Dos consultórios analisados, 13 (38%) não possuíam lixeiras do lixo comum e, em 18 (53%), as existentes eram inadequadas. Quanto ao lixo contaminado, em 21 (62%), as lixeiras eram inadequadas e, em dois (6%), ausentes. Ou seja: em apenas 11 (32%), as lixeiras para este tipo de lixo eram adequadas. Notou‑se ainda que 13 (38%) não tinham lavatórios para mãos; em 23 (68%), havia toalheiro de papel; em 20 (59%), saboneteiras adequadas, e o compressor estava instalado dentro dos consultórios em cinco (15%) dos locais de atendimento. Quanto à adequação dos consultórios para o trabalho auxiliado, todos (n = 19) estavam insatisfatórios. CONCLUSÃO: A existência do ASB apresentou-se principalmente nos CEOs e nas Unidades de Saúde da Família por exigência legal e foram encontradas condições sanitárias e ergonômicas inadequadas, sugerindo a necessidade de reorganização no processo de trabalho e de gestão.
Correlação entre saúde periodontal e idade gestacional
Authors: Mascarenhas Vinícius Ibiapina , Vilarinho Laís Aires Lima , Moura Lúcia de Fátima Almeida de Deus , Moura Marcoeli Silva de , Ferro Leonardo Borges
Published: February 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: O baixo peso de recém-nascidos (RN) é considerado um problema de saúde pública e, geralmente, é associado à prematuridade. A etiologia do parto prematuro é bastante complexa e, frequentemente, está relacionada a vários fatores. Diversas teorias têm correlacionado a saúde periodontal de gestantes com o nascimento de bebês prematuros (idade gestacional) e/ou com baixo peso ao nascer. OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a possível correlação de saúde periodontal com idade gestacional e/ou com nascimento de bebês com baixo peso. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Estudo observacional longitudinal prospectivo com gestantes que foram atendidas em um projeto de extensão da Universidade Federal do Piauí - Programa Preventivo para Gestantes e Bebês - PPGB. A coleta dos dados foi estruturada em dois momentos: 1º- Preenchimento de ficha contendo dados relativos à saúde geral e exame periodontal completo, e 2º- Coleta de dados referentes a tipo de parto, duração da gestação, peso e condição de saúde do bebê. RESULTADO: De 62 gestantes atendidas, 43 participaram do segundo momento do estudo. Ocorreu uma predominância de gestantes com idade entre 25 e 35 anos (55,81%). O índice de sangramento gengival variou de 1,19% a 92,50%. A média do peso dos bebês foi 3.365,33 g e do tempo gestacional foi 39,33 semanas. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados deste estudo não deram suporte à hipótese de que a doença periodontal está associada à idade gestacional.
Rendimento de células mesenquimais do ligamento periodontal humano submetidas a diferentes protocolos de criopreservação
Authors: Soares Diego Moura , Ginani Fernanda , Barboza Carlos Augusto Galvão
Published: February 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: A técnica de criopreservação tem como característica cessar reversivelmente todas as funções biológicas dos tecidos vivos em baixas temperaturas e tem sido aplicada a diversas células humanas, visando à sua utilização posterior. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a proliferação de células mesenquimais do ligamento periodontal humano após a criopreservação por dois diferentes protocolos. MÉTODO: As células do ligamento periodontal foram obtidas a partir de dois dentes (terceiros molares) hígidos, com indicação de remoção cirúrgica. Após o processamento, as células foram cultivadas em placas de Petri e mantidas a 37 °C em 5% de CO2, até atingirem 70-90% de confluência, com troca de meio a cada três dias. Na primeira passagem, as células foram divididas em dois grupos e criopreservadas: Grupo -80 °C - criopreservação em ultrafreezer por 45 dias; Grupo -196 °C - criopreservação em nitrogênio líquido por 45 dias. Decorrido esse tempo, as células dos dois grupos foram descongeladas e plaqueadas para o experimento. A curva de crescimento dos grupos estudados foi traçada a partir de contagem em Câmara de Neubauer e pelo método de ensaio do MTT, nos intervalos de 24, 48 e 72 horas. Os resultados foram analisados por meio do teste de Mann‑Whitney, com nível de significância de 5%. RESULTADO: Verificou-se um crescimento ascendente nos dois protocolos utilizados, porém uma maior taxa proliferativa foi verificada no grupo criopreservado em nitrogênio líquido (p < 0,05). CONCLUSÃO: Ambos os protocolos de criopreservação estudados foram eficazes, porém a criopreservação em nitrogênio líquido (-196 °C) manteve uma maior taxa de proliferação celular em todos os intervalos de tempo.
Técnicas de moldagem da máscara facial
Authors: Aquino Luana Maria Martins de , Oliveira Milene de , Martins Ana Paula Varela Brown , Barbosa Célia Marisa Rizzatti
Published: February 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: Encontram-se descritas na literatura várias técnicas para moldagem da máscara facial com o intuito de obtenção de modelos para confecção de próteses bucomaxilofaciais. OBJETIVO: Este artigo tem como objetivo relatar duas técnicas de moldagem, a técnica convencional e a técnica convencional modificada, ressaltando suas vantagens e desvantagens. TÉCNICA: A primeira técnica consiste na deposição do material de moldagem na região de interesse e, posteriormente, na adição da camada de reforço com gesso tipo II. A modificação da técnica convencional inicia‑se com a realização de um alívio com algodão nos tecidos faciais a serem moldados, a aplicação de uma camada de gesso tipo II para a construção prévia da camada de reforço e, após sua cristalização, a aplicação do material de moldagem sobre a área a ser moldada, seguida de sua contenção por meio da máscara de gesso. CONCLUSÃO: A escolha da técnica de moldagem e dos materiais utilizados dependerá da habilidade do profissional. O importante é realizar uma moldagem que produza um modelo facial sem distorções para o sucesso da prótese.