bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A unified approach for plasticity yield criteria on the tangent space to the Cauchy tensor
Authors: Luque-Raigón José Miguel , Campoamor-Stursberg Rutwig
Published: April 2011

A new model for elucidating the geometrical foundations of plasticity yield criteria is proposed. The proposed ansatz uses differential geometry and group theory concepts, in addition to elementary hypotheses based on well-established experimental evidence. Its theoretical development involves the analysis of tensor functions and provides a series expansion that allows the functional stress dependence of plasticity yield criteria to be predicted. The theoretical framework for the model includes a series of spatial coefficients that provide a more flexible theory for in-depth examination of symmetry and anisotropy in compact solid materials. It describes the classical yield criteria (such as those of Tresca, Von Mises, Hosford, Hill, etc.) and accurately describes the anomalous behaviour of metals, such as aluminium, which was elucidated by Hill (Theoretical plasticity of textured aggregates. Math Proc Camb Phil Soc 1979; 85: 179–191). Further, absolutely new instances of stress dependence are predicted; this makes it highly useful for fitting experimental data with a view to studying the phenomena behind plasticity.
Perinatal Pitocin as an Early ADHD Biomarker: Neurodevelopmental Risk?
Authors: Kurth Lisa , Haussmann Robert
Published: April 2011

Objective: To investigate a potential relationship between coincidental increases in perinatal Pitocin usage and subsequent childhood ADHD onset in an attempt to isolate a specific risk factor as an early biomarker of this neurodevelopmental disorder. Method: Maternal labor/delivery and corresponding childbirth records of 172 regionally diverse, heterogeneous children, ages 3 to 25, were examined with respect to 21 potential predictors of later ADHD onset, including 17 selected obstetric complications, familial ADHD incidence, and gender. ADHD diagnosis and history of perinatal Pitocin exposure distinguished groups for comparison. Results: Results revealed a strong predictive relationship between perinatal Pitocin exposure and subsequent childhood ADHD onset (occurring in 67.1% of perinatal Pitocin cases vs. 35.6% in nonexposure cases, χ2 = 16.99, p < .001). Fetal exposure time, gestation length, and labor length also demonstrated predictive power, albeit significantly lower. Conclusion: The findings warrant further investigation into the potential link between perinatal Pitocin exposure and subsequent ADHD diagnosis.
Do testimonials improve parental perceptions and participation in parenting programmes? Results of two studies
Authors: Morawska Alina , Nitschke Faye , Burrows Sally
Published: April 2011

Despite the effectiveness of parenting interventions in both prevention and intervention with child emotional and behavioural problems, parental participation in evidence-based programmes remains low, limiting the benefit to the population. This research examines a new population parental engagement strategy for parenting programmes using video testimonials via two studies. The first study compared the use of parent versus expert testimonials, against a no testimonial condition on parenting programme evaluations with 70 parents. The second study compared expert testimonials which were framed in a fear or non-fear context, with 73 parents. Results indicated no significant effect of source of testimonial or content of testimonial on parental evaluations of the programme or behavioural outcomes. Trends favoured expert testimonials over parent testimonials. Implications for population level engagement strategies are discussed.
Science as an extra dividend: Frontiers of Science
Authors: Burns Maureen , Leach Joan
Published: April 2011

Frontiers of Science, an Australian science newspaper comic strip that was published in the Sydney Morning Herald every weekday from September 1961 until 1979, retains the record of being the longest-running newspaper science comic strip in the world. It was syndicated internationally to over 200 newspapers, and was translated into 14 languages. Its educational aspirations, its ‘omnipotent’ (read white, English-speaking) perspective, and its existence at the edge of comics and on the border between science fact and science fiction offer an invaluable record of the ways that science was imagined and popularized (in Australia and in several other countries) in the second half of the 20th century. In this piece we argue that Frontiers of Science bears witness to the intimate relations between the popularization of science and the broader political and social contexts of science, and that Frontiers of Science demonstrates the specificity of Australia and its place in the world during the 1960s and 1970s.
Incomplete Deployment of the Vena Tech LP Filter-Case Series and Concerns
Authors: Contractor Sohail , Esmaeili Azadeh , Reina Diego , Deitch Edwin
Published: April 2011

The Vena Tech LP vena cava filter (B Braun, Evanston, Illinois) has been FDA approved since 2001 and is a permanent vena cava filtration device. It replaced the previous Vena tech LGM filter also manufactured by B Braun. The LGM filter had 2 case series reporting a high incidence of incomplete deployment of the filter, especially when placed from a jugular approach. Design changes were made to this device and the LP filter introduced. The LP filter has also been reported to have incompletely deployed both in peer reviewed literature as well as the FDA MAUDE website. We present here 3 cases of incomplete deployment of the Vena Tech LP filter and review the cases previously described as well as attempt to present possible etiologies for incomplete deployment.
Cultivating Leadership: The Need for Renovating Models to Higher Epistemic Cognition
Authors: Gambrell Kem M. , Matkin Gina S. , Burbach Mark E.
Published: April 2011

More than ever before, people are reevaluating their lives and work as they search for deeper meaning. This “self-actualization” has only superficially appeared in leadership theory and research. This essay will discuss why adult development and higher levels of critical thinking in leadership is essential to effective leadership. The authors hypothesize that a “cultivated” aspect of leadership is currently lacking in leadership theory and research and is essential to leader and follower development. Additionally, the authors envision that impending organizations will necessitate more leaders with the ability to facilitate follower growth and development along these constructs.
Absorption of Hydrocortisone Acetate in Human Connective Tissue Using Phonophoresis
Authors: Gurney A. Burke , Wascher Daniel , Schenck Robert , Tennison Alexandria , Jaramillo Bettina
Published: April 2011

Background: Therapeutic ultrasound to drive medication (phonophoresis) has been a mainstay in physical therapy. The most common drug used in phonophoresis is hydrocortisone acetate (HA). A number of studies have been done examining phonophoresis in the delivery of HA through the skin to underlying tissues; however, a study has never been done examining the absorption of HA using phonophoresis on human connective tissue.

Hypothesis: Phonophoresis will facilitate the transmission of HA in human connective tissue.

Study Design: Randomized controlled study.

Methods: Twenty-one patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery were randomly assigned to either a sham or true phonophoresis treatment group. The latter group received 6 minutes of 10% HA ultrasound at a point consistent with the gastrocnemius slip of the semitendinosis tendon (treatment site). The sham group received 6 minutes of 10% HA ultrasound to the same area, but the ultrasound was not turned on. The slip and a sample of the distal attachment of the tendon (control) were removed. Samples were analyzed for HA levels.

Results: Although the mean and median levels of HA found at the treatment site were greater than those of the control site (means, 34.1 vs 22.9 parts per billion; medians, 7 vs 0 parts per billion), the levels of HA found at the treatment site were not significantly greater than those at the control site (P = 0.15). There were no statistically significant differences between the true and sham phonophoresis groups in HA levels (P = 0.80) nor in age, sex, or skin thickness.

Conclusion: Phonophoresis does not appear to facilitate the absorption of HA in connective tissue when compared with simple absorption (sham).

Clinical Relevance: Phonophoresis does not appear to enhance the transmission of HA in human connective tissue; therefore, use of phonophoresis should be reconsidered in inflammatory conditions.
Symptomatic Ganglion Cyst of the Popliteus Tendon Treated With Ultrasound-Guided Aspiration and Steroid Injection: A Case Report
Authors: Jose Jean , Silverman Edward , Kaplan Lee
Published: April 2011

Ultrasound-guided aspiration of symptomatic ganglion cysts about peripheral joints is a valuable and routinely performed therapeutic modality. Intratendinous and peritendinous ganglia involving the popliteus tendon are rare, with only 3 cases previously reported. These ganglion cysts are usually small and can easily be mistaken for normal anatomy on magnetic resonance imaging (ie, small periarticular vessel or fluid within the popliteus tendon sheath), leading to delayed patient diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Protein kinase C mediates platelet secretion and thrombus formation through protein kinase D2
Authors: Konopatskaya Olga , Matthews Sharon A. , Harper Matthew T. , Gilio Karen , Cosemans Judith M. E. M. , Williams Christopher M. , Navarro Maria N. , Carter Deborah A. , Heemskerk Johan W. M. , Leitges Michael , Cantrell Doreen , Poole Alastair W.
Published: April 2011

Platelets are highly specialized blood cells critically involved in hemostasis and thrombosis. Members of the protein kinase C (PKC) family have established roles in regulating platelet function and thrombosis, but the molecular mechanisms are not clearly understood. In particular, the conventional PKC isoform, PKCα, is a major regulator of platelet granule secretion, but the molecular pathway from PKCα to secretion is not defined. Protein kinase D (PKD) is a family of 3 kinases activated by PKC, which may represent a step in the PKC signaling pathway to secretion. In the present study, we show that PKD2 is the sole PKD member regulated downstream of PKC in platelets, and that the conventional, but not novel, PKC isoforms provide the upstream signal. Platelets from a gene knock-in mouse in which 2 key phosphorylation sites in PKD2 have been mutated (Ser707Ala/Ser711Ala) show a significant reduction in agonist-induced dense granule secretion, but not in α-granule secretion. This deficiency in dense granule release was responsible for a reduced platelet aggregation and a marked reduction in thrombus formation. Our results show that in the molecular pathway to secretion, PKD2 is a key component of the PKC-mediated pathway to platelet activation and thrombus formation through its selective regulation of dense granule secretion.
Activation of factor XI by products of prothrombin activation
Authors: Matafonov Anton , Sarilla Suryakala , Sun Mao-fu , Sheehan John P. , Serebrov Vladimir , Verhamme Ingrid M. , Gailani David
Published: April 2011

The prothrombinase complex converts prothrombin to α-thrombin through the intermediate meizothrombin (Mz-IIa). Both α-thrombin and Mz-IIa catalyze factor (F) XI activation to FXIa, which sustains α-thrombin production through activation of FIX. The interaction with FXI is thought to involve thrombin anion binding exosite (ABE) I. α-Thrombin can undergo additional proteolysis to β-thrombin and γ-thrombin, neither of which have an intact ABE I. In a purified protein system, FXI is activated by β-thrombin or γ-thrombin, and by α-thrombin in the presence of the ABE I-blocking peptide hirugen, indicating that a fully formed ABE I is not absolutely required for FXI activation. In a FXI-dependent plasma thrombin generation assay, β-thrombin, γ-thrombin, and α-thrombins with mutations in ABE I are approximately 2-fold more potent initiators of thrombin generation than α-thrombin or Mz-IIa, possibly because fibrinogen, which binds to ABE I, competes poorly with FXI for forms of thrombin lacking ABE I. In addition, FXIa can activate factor FXII, which could contribute to thrombin generation through FXIIa-mediated FXI activation. The data indicate that forms of thrombin other than α-thrombin contribute directly to feedback activation of FXI in plasma and suggest that FXIa may provide a link between tissue factor-initiated coagulation and the proteases of the contact system.
Critical band 3 multiprotein complex interactions establish early during human erythropoiesis
Authors: Satchwell Timothy J. , Bell Amanda J. , Pellegrin Stephanie , Kupzig Sabine , Ridgwell Kay , Daniels Geoff , Anstee David J. , van den Akker Emile , Toye Ashley M.
Published: April 2011

Band 3, the major anion transport protein of human erythrocytes, forms the core of a multiprotein complex in the erythrocyte membrane. Here we studied the spatiotemporal mechanisms of band 3 multiprotein complex assembly during erythropoiesis. Significant pools of intracellular band 3 and Rh-associated glycoprotein (RhAG) were found in the basophilic erythroblast. These intracellular pools decreased in the polychromatic erythroblast, whereas surface expression increased and were lowest in the orthochromatic erythroblast and reticulocytes. Protease treatment of intact cells to remove extracellular epitopes recognized by antibodies to band 3 and RhAG was used to study surface delivery kinetics and intracellular complex composition from the proerythroblast stage to the enucleated reticulocyte. Newly synthesized band 3 and protein 4.2 interact initially in the early stages of the secretory pathway and are found associated at the plasma membrane from the basophilic stage of erythropoiesis. Although we could successfully coimmunoprecipitate Rh with RhAG from plasma membrane pools at a similar stage, no intracellular interaction between these proteins was detectable. Knockdown of RhAG during early erythropoiesis was accompanied by a concomitant drop in membrane expression of Rh polypeptides. These data are consistent with assembly of major components of the band 3 macrocomplex at an early stage during erythropoiesis.
Inhibition of cellular senescence by developmentally regulated FGF receptors in mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Coutu Daniel L. , François Moïra , Galipeau Jacques
Published: April 2011

Bone-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are important cells for use in cell therapy, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine, but also to study bone development, homeostasis, and repair. However, little is known about their developmental ontology and in vivo identity. Because fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) play key roles in bone development and their receptors are developmentally regulated in bones, we hypothesized that MSCs should express FGF receptors (FGFRs), reflecting their developmental origin and potential. We show here that FGFR1/2 are expressed by rare mesenchymal progenitors in putative MSC niches in vivo, including the perichondrium, periosteum, and trabecular marrow. FGFR1+ cells often appeared as pericytes. These cells display a characteristic MSC phenotype in vitro when expanded with FGF-2, which appears to maintain MSC stemness by inhibiting cellular senescence through a PI3K/AKT-MDM2 pathway and by promoting proliferation. FGFRs may therefore be involved in MSC self-renewal. In summary, FGFR1/2 are developmentally regulated markers of MSCs in vivo and in vitro and are important in maintaining MSC stemness.
Controlled activation of morphogenesis to generate a functional human microvasculature in a synthetic matrix
Authors: Hanjaya-Putra Donny , Bose Vivek , Shen Yu-I , Yee Jane , Khetan Sudhir , Fox-Talbot Karen , Steenbergen Charles , Burdick Jason A. , Gerecht Sharon
Published: April 2011

Understanding the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in vascular morphogenesis has been possible using natural ECMs as in vitro models to study the underlying molecular mechanisms. However, little is known about vascular morphogenesis in synthetic matrices where properties can be tuned toward both the basic understanding of tubulogenesis in modular environments and as a clinically relevant alternative to natural materials for regenerative medicine. We investigated synthetic, tunable hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogels and determined both the adhesion and degradation parameters that enable human endothelial colony-forming cells (ECFCs) to form efficient vascular networks. Entrapped ECFCs underwent tubulogenesis dependent on the cellular interactions with the HA hydrogel during each stage of vascular morphogenesis. Vacuole and lumen formed through integrins α5β1 and αVβ3, while branching and sprouting were enabled by HA hydrogel degradation. Vascular networks formed within HA hydrogels containing ECFCs anastomosed with the host's circulation and supported blood flow in the hydrogel after transplantation. Collectively, we show that the signaling pathways of vascular morphogenesis of ECFCs can be precisely regulated in a synthetic matrix, resulting in a functional microvasculature useful for the study of 3-dimensional vascular biology and toward a range of vascular disorders and approaches in tissue regeneration.
Posttranscriptional deregulation of MYC via PTEN constitutes a major alternative pathway of MYC activation in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Bonnet Mélanie , Loosveld Marie , Montpellier Bertrand , Navarro Jean-Marc , Quilichini Benoit , Picard Christophe , Di Cristofaro Julie , Bagnis Claude , Fossat Chantal , Hernandez Lucie , Mamessier Emilie , Roulland Sandrine , Morgado Ester , Formisano-Tréziny Christine , Dik Willem A. , Langerak Anton W. , Prebet Thomas , Vey Norbert , Michel Gérard , Gabert Jean , Soulier Jean , Macintyre Elizabeth A. , Asnafi Vahid , Payet-Bornet Dominique , Nadel Bertrand
Published: April 2011

Cumulative evidence indicates that MYC, one of the major downstream effectors of NOTCH1, is a critical component of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) oncogenesis and a potential candidate for targeted therapy. However, MYC is a complex oncogene, involving both fine protein dosage and cell-context dependency, and detailed understanding of MYC-mediated oncogenesis in T-ALL is still lacking. To better understand how MYC is interspersed in the complex T-ALL oncogenic networks, we performed a thorough molecular and biochemical analysis of MYC activation in a comprehensive collection of primary adult and pediatric patient samples. We find that MYC expression is highly variable, and that high MYC expression levels can be generated in a large number of cases in absence of NOTCH1/FBXW7 mutations, suggesting the occurrence of multiple activation pathways in addition to NOTCH1. Furthermore, we show that posttranscriptional deregulation of MYC constitutes a major alternative pathway of MYC activation in T-ALL, operating partly via the PI3K/AKT axis through down-regulation of PTEN, and that NOTCH1m might play a dual transcriptional and posttranscriptional role in this process. Altogether, our data lend further support to the significance of therapeutic targeting of MYC and/or the PTEN/AKT pathways, both in GSI-resistant and identified NOTCH1-independent/MYC-mediated T-ALL patients.
The chlamydial periplasmic stress response serine protease cHtrA is secreted into host cell cytosol
Authors: Wu Xiang , Lei Lei , Gong Siqi , Chen Ding , Flores Rhonda , Zhong Guangming
Published: April 2011

Background

The periplasmic High Temperature Requirement protein A (HtrA) plays important roles in bacterial protein folding and stress responses. However, the role of chlamydial HtrA (cHtrA) in chlamydial pathogenesis is not clear.

Results

The cHtrA was detected both inside and outside the chlamydial inclusions. The detection was specific since both polyclonal and monoclonal anti-cHtrA antibodies revealed similar intracellular labeling patterns that were only removed by absorption with cHtrA but not control fusion proteins. In a Western blot assay, the anti-cHtrA antibodies detected the endogenous cHtrA in Chlamydia-infected cells without cross-reacting with any other chlamydial or host cell antigens. Fractionation of the infected cells revealed cHtrA in the host cell cytosol fraction. The periplasmic cHtrA protein appeared to be actively secreted into host cell cytosol since no other chlamydial periplasmic proteins were detected in the host cell cytoplasm. Most chlamydial species secreted cHtrA into host cell cytosol and the secretion was not inhibitable by a type III secretion inhibitor.

Conclusion

Since it is hypothesized that chlamydial organisms possess a proteolysis strategy to manipulate host cell signaling pathways, secretion of the serine protease cHtrA into host cell cytosol suggests that the periplasmic cHtrA may also play an important role in chlamydial interactions with host cells.
Class-C SOX Transcription Factors Control GnRH Gene Expression via the Intronic Transcriptional Enhancer
Authors: Kim Hee-Dae , Choe Han Kyoung , Chung Sooyoung , Kim Myungjin , Seong Jae Young , Son Gi Hoon , Kim Kyungjin
Published: April 2011

GnRH is a pivotal hypothalamic neurohormone governing reproduction and sexual development. Because transcriptional regulation is crucial for the spatial and temporal expression of the GnRH gene, a region approximately 3.0 kb upstream of the mammalian GnRH promoter has been extensive studied. In the present study, we demonstrate a transcription-enhancer located in the first intron (intron A) region of the GnRH gene. This transcriptional enhancer harbors putative sex-determining region Y-related high-mobility-group box (SOX) family transcription factor-binding sites, which are well conserved across many mammalian species. The class-C SOX member proteins (SOX-C) (SOX4 and SOX11) specifically augment this transcriptional activation by binding to these SOX-binding sites. In accordance, SOX11 is highly enriched in immortalized GnRH-producing GT1-1 cells, and suppression of its expression significantly decreases GnRH gene expression as well as GnRH secretion. Chromatin immunoprecipitation shows that endogenous SOX-C factors recognize and bind to the intronic enhancer in GT1-1 cells and the hypothalamus. Accompanying immunohistochemical analysis demonstrates that SOX4 or SOX11 are highly expressed in the majority of hypothalamic GnRH neurons in adult mice. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that SOX-C transcription factors function as important transcriptional regulators of cell type-specific GnRH gene expression by acting on the intronic transcriptional enhancer.
Planting Gardens, Planting Flags: Revolutionary France in the South Pacific
Authors: Harrison Carol E.
Published: April 2011

In the revolutionary years, expeditions to the Pacific regularly planted gardens in distant lands and returned home with exotic plants for cultivation in France. These scientist-dominated ventures saw acclimatization as the model for a new exploration that would benefit both native peoples and their French discoverers. An imperialism driven by acclimatization, which created gardens rather than colonies, presented enlightened Frenchmen with the imaginative opportunity to redeem the sins of the Atlantic by opening the new world of the Pacific in nonviolent and nonexploitative fashion. For the “philosophical navigators” under the command of Jean-Antoine Bruny d'Entrecasteaux and Nicolas Baudin, the global circulation of plants and animals was the centerpiece of a virtuous imperialism, and they ridiculed their British and Spanish rivals who sought to create traditional, territorially based colonial empires. The British colony at Port Jackson, where convicts tended successful gardens, however, revealed the limitations of their enlightened approach to discovery.

A l'époque révolutionnaire, les expéditions françaises vers le Pacifique ont cultivé des jardins dans les terres lointaines et leurs membres ont collectionné des plantes exotiques pour la transplantation en France. Pour les scientifiques qui dominaient ces expéditions, l'acclimatation était la clé d'une exploration bienveillante qui profiterait également aux indigènes et aux Français. L'impérialisme de l'acclimatation, produisant jardins au lieu de colonies, a offert à l'imaginaire français la possibilité de découvrir le Pacifique sans violence et ainsi de racheter les abus de l'Atlantique. Pour les « voyageurs philosophiques » sous la commande de Jean-Antoine Bruny d'Entrecasteaux et de Nicolas Baudin, la circulation globale des plantes et des animaux était au cœur d'un impérialisme vertueux. Ils ont ridiculisé leurs rivaux anglais et espagnols qui cherchaient à créer des empires coloniaux de style traditionnel et territorial. Cependant, la colonie anglaise de Port Jackson, ou les forçats déportés cultivaient déjà des jardins, montrait les limites de ce colonialisme éclairé.
Layered Nb2O5–WOx Sheet Catalyst Composed of Nanofibers That Are Active in Friedel–Crafts Reactions
Authors: Okumura Kazu , Ishida Soichiro , Tomiyama Takuya , Niwa Miki
Published: April 2011

We found that the post treatment of Nb2O5–WOx fibers with an aqueous solution of oxalic acid resulted in the formation of nanosheet oxides with a layer-by-layer structure in which bundles of fibers were assembled. The oxalic acid-treated catalyst showed much better recyclability in Friedel–Crafts alkylation and acylation compared to untreated material.
Role of polynucleotide phosphorylase in sRNA function in Escherichia coli
Authors: De Lay Nicholas , Gottesman Susan
Published: April 2011

In Escherichia coli, many small noncoding regulatory RNAs (sRNAs) post-transcriptionally regulate gene expression by base-pairing to mRNAs in a process that is mediated by the RNA chaperone Hfq. Binding of the sRNA to the mRNA can lead to increased or decreased mRNA stability and/or translation. It is not known if proteins other than Hfq are necessary for this process. In order to identify additional genes required for the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression by Hfq-dependent sRNAs, we developed a novel combined genetic selection and screen for mutants defective in sRNA regulation. In our combined genetic selection and screen, we isolated hfq mutants and mutants in pnp, encoding polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase). We show that loss-of-function mutations in pnp result in a decreased stability of several sRNAs including RyhB, SgrS, and CyaR and also decrease both the negative and positive regulation by sRNAs. The defect in stability of CyaR and in negative and positive regulation are suppressed by deletion mutations in RNase E. Altogether, our results suggest that the lack of sRNA-mediated regulation in the absence of an active form of PNPase is due to the rapid turnover of sRNA resulting from an increase in RNase E activity and/or an increase in access of other ribonucleases to sRNAs.
Overcoming Redundancy: An RNAi Enhancer Screen for Morphogenesis Genes inCaenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Sawyer Jacob M , Glass Stephanie , Li Trudy , Shemer Gidi , White Noor D , Starostina Natalia G , Kipreos Edward T , Jones Corbin D , Goldstein Bob
Published: April 2011

Morphogenesis is an important component of animal development. Genetic redundancy has been proposed to be common among morphogenesis genes, posing a challenge to the genetic dissection of morphogenesis mechanisms. Genetic redundancy is more generally a challenge in biology, as large proportions of the genes in diverse organisms have no apparent loss of function phenotypes. Here, we present a screen designed to uncover redundant and partially redundant genes that function in an example of morphogenesis, gastrulation in Caenorhabditis elegans. We performed an RNA interference (RNAi) enhancer screen in a gastrulation-sensitized double-mutant background, targeting genes likely to be expressed in gastrulating cells or their neighbors. Secondary screening identified 16 new genes whose functions contribute to normal gastrulation in a nonsensitized background. We observed that for most new genes found, the closest known homologs were multiple other C. elegans genes, suggesting that some may have derived from rounds of recent gene duplication events. We predict that such genes are more likely than single copy genes to comprise redundant or partially redundant gene families. We explored this prediction for one gene that we identified and confirmed that this gene and five close relatives, which encode predicted substrate recognition subunits (SRSs) for a CUL-2 ubiquitin ligase, do indeed function partially redundantly with each other in gastrulation. Our results implicate new genes in C. elegans gastrulation, and they show that an RNAi-based enhancer screen in C. elegans can be used as an efficient means to identify important but redundant or partially redundant developmental genes.
TRREMS procedure (transanal repair of rectocele and rectal mucosectomy with one circular stapler): a prospective multicenter trial
Authors: Cruz José Vinicius , Regadas Francisco Sergio P. , Murad-Regadas Sthela Maria , Rodrigues Lusmar Veras , Benicio Fernando , Leal Rogério , Carvalho César G. , Fernandes Margarete , Roche Lucimar M. C. , Miranda Antônio Carlos , Câmara Lucia , Pereira Joaquim Costa , Parra Antonio Mallén , Leal Vilmar Moura
Published: April 2011

CONTEXT: Since anorectocele is usually associated with mucosa prolapse and/or rectal intussusceptions, it was developed a stapled surgical technique using one circular stapler. OBJECTIVE: To report the results of Transanal Repair of Rectocele and Rectal Mucosectomy with one Circular Stapler (TRREMS procedure) in the treatment of anorectocele with mucosa prolapse in a prospective multicenter trial. METHODS: It was conducted by 14 surgeons and included 75 female patients, mean aged 49.6 years, with symptoms of obstructed defecation due to grade 2 (26.7%) and grade 3 (73.3%) anorectocele associated with mucosa prolapse and/or rectal intussusception (52.0%) and an average validated Wexner constipation score of 16. All patients were evaluated by a proctological examination, cinedefecography, anal manometry and colonic transit time. The TRREMS procedure consists of the manual removal of the rectocele wall with circumferential rectal mucosectomy performed with a circular stapler. The mean follow-up time was 21 months. RESULTS: All patients presented obstructed defecation and they persisted with symptoms despite conservative treatment. The mean operative time was 42 minutes. In 13 (17.3%) patients, bleeding from the stapled line required hemostatic suture. Stapling was incomplete in 2 (2.6%). Forty-nine patients (65.3%) required 1 hospitalization day, the remainder (34.7%) 2 days. Postoperatively, 3 (4.0%) patients complained of persistent rectal pain and 7 (9.3%) developed stricture on the stapled suture subsequently treated by stricturectomy under anesthesia (n = 1), endoscopic stricturectomy with hot biopsy forceps (n = 3) and digital dilatation (n = 3). Postoperative cinedefecography showed residual grade I anorectoceles in 8 (10.6%). The mean Wexner constipation score decreased significantly from 16 to 4 (0-4: n = 68) (6: n = 6) (7: n = 1) (P<0.0001). CONCLUSION: Current trial results suggest that TRREMS procedure is a safe and effective technique for the treatment of anorectocele associated with mucosa prolapse. The stapling technique is low-cost as requires the use of a single circular stapler.
Effects of L-glutamine supplementation on the myenteric neurons from the duodenum and cecum of diabetic rats
Authors: Zanoni Jacqueline Nelisis , Tronchini Eleandro Aparecido , Moure Sheila Alves , Souza Ivan Domicio da Silva
Published: April 2011

CONTEXT: Peripheral neuropathy is one of the chronic complications of diabetes mellitus and is directly related to gastrointestinal consequences of the disease. Myenteric neurons are affected in some pathological conditions such as diabetic neuropathy. The imbalance between cellular antioxidants and free radicals, leading to an increase in oxidative stress, is considered one of the main factors responsible for neuronal damages in diabetes. Drugs that reduce the oxidative stress may play a significant role in the treatment of neurological complications of diabetes mellitus. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of L-glutamine supplementation on the myenteric neurons from the cecum and duodenum of Wistar rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus. METHODS: The animals were divided in four groups (n = 5): non-treated normoglycemics, normoglycemics treated with L-glutamine, non-treated diabetics and diabetics treated with L-glutamine from the 4th day of diabetes induction on. The amino acid L-glutamine was added to their diet at 1%. Giemsa's technique was employed to stain the myenteric neurons. We determined the cell body area of 500 neurons in each group studied. The quantitative analysis was performed by sampling in an area of 16.6 mm² in the cecum and 3.6 mm² in the duodenum of each animal. RESULTS: After the supplementation with L-glutamine in the duodenum, we observed a preservation of neuronal density in groups normoglycemic and diabetic (P<0.05). We also observed a preservation of the cell bodies area in diabetic animals (group treated with L-glutamine) (P<0.05). In the cecum, that preservation was not evident. CONCLUSION: Supplementation with L-glutamine (1%) promoted a neuroprotective effect on the myenteric neurons from the duodenum of rats, both in terms of natural aging and of diabetes mellitus.
Psychiatric disorders in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Ybarra Mariana Inés , Kummer Arthur , Frota Elizabeth Regina Comini , Oliveira José Teotônio de , Gomez Rodrigo Santiago , Teixeira Antonio Lucio
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of psychiatric disorders in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG). METHOD: Forty-one patients with MG answered to a structured psychiatric interview (MINI-Plus). RESULTS: Eleven (26.1%) patients were diagnosed with a depressive disorder and 19 (46.3%) were diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Patients with dysthymia were older (p=0.029) and had longer disease duration (p=0.006). Patients with social phobia also had longer disease duration (p=0.039). CONCLUSION: Psychiatric disorders in MG are common, especially depressive and anxiety disorders.
Clinical experience with a novel bovine collagen dura mater substitute
Authors: Costa Bruno Silva , Cavalcanti-Mendes George de Albuquerque , Abreu Marcelo Sartori de , Sousa Atos Alves de
Published: April 2011

Dural substitutes are used to achieve watertight closure of the dura mater when adequate closure is not possible. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new collagen matrix dural substitute (Duradry, Technodry, Belo Horizonte MG) in the repair or expansion of cranial and spinal dura mater. METHOD: Thirty patients, operated on between March and September, 2008, were studied. Surgical records were reviewed for sex, age, location of graft, technique, and presence of fistula or infection. The patients were followed up for at least 3 months, and presence of complications, such as cerebrospinal fluid leakage, infection, asseptic meningitis hydrocephalus, pseudomeningocele, was analyzed. RESULTS: Only one patient presented cerebrospinal fluid fistula. No patients presented wound infections, hydrocephalus, pseudomenigocele, meningites, brain abscesses or signs of toxicity related to the dural substitute. CONCLUSION: The new dural substitute used in this study is effective and safe, and the initial results are similar to those of other dural substitutes reported in the literature.
Neuroendoscopic surgery for unilateral hydrocephalus due to inflammatory obstruction of the Monro foramen
Authors: Vaz-Guimarães Filho Francisco A. , Ramalho Clauder O. , Suriano Ítalo C. , Zymberg Samuel T. , Cavalheiro Sérgio
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE: Unilateral hydrocephalus (UH) is characterized by enlargement of just one lateral ventricle. In this paper, the authors will demonstrate their experiences in the neuroendoscopic management of this uncommon type of hydrocephalus. METHOD: The authors retrospectively reviewed a serie of almost 800 neuroendoscopic procedures performed from September 1995 to July 2010 and selected seven adult patients with UH. Clinical and radiological charts were reviewed and analyzed. RESULTS: Six patients had intraventricular neurocysticercosis and one patient had congenital stenosis of the foramen of Monro. Headaches were the most common symptom. A septostomy restored cerebrospinal fluid circulation. During follow-up period (65.5 months, range 3-109) no patient has presented clinical recurrence as well as no severe complications have been observed. CONCLUSION: UH is a rare condition. A successful treatment can be accomplished through a neuroendoscopic approach avoiding the use of ventricular shunts.
Role of IL-4 in an experimental model of encephalitis induced by intracranial inoculation of herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1)
Authors: Vilela Márcia Carvalho , Campos Roberta Dayrell de Lima , Mansur Daniel Santos , Rodrigues David Henrique , Queiroz Norinne Lacerda , Lima Graciela Kunrath , Rachid Milene Alvarenga , Kroon Erna Geessien , Campos Marco Antônio , Teixeira Antônio Lúcio
Published: April 2011

Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1) is a pathogen that may cause severe encephalitis in humans. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of interleukin-4 (IL-4) in a model of HSV-1 brain infection. IL-4 knockout (IL-4-/-) and wild type (WT) C57BL/6 mice were inoculated with 10(4) plaque-forming units of HSV-1 by the intracranial route. Histopathologic analysis revealed a distinct profile of infiltrating cells at 3 days post-infection (dpi). Infected WT mice presented mononuclear inflammatory cells while IL-4-/- mice developed meningoencephalitis with predominance of neutrophils. IL-4-/- mice had diminished leukocyte adhesion at 3 dpi when compared to infected WT animals in intravital microscopy study. Conversely no differences were found in cerebral levels of CXCL1, CXCL9, CCL3, CCL5 and TNF-α between WT and IL-4-/- infected mice. IL-4 may play a role in the recruitment of cells into central nervous system in this acute model of severe encephalitis caused by HSV-1.
Sleep disorders in cerebellar ataxias
Authors: Pedroso José L. , Braga-Neto Pedro , Felício André C. , Aquino Camila C.H. , Prado Lucila B. Fernandes do , Prado Gilmar Fernandes do , Barsottini Orlando G.P.
Published: April 2011

Cerebellar ataxias comprise a wide range of etiologies leading to central nervous system-related motor and non-motor symptoms. Recently, a large body of evidence has demonstrated a high frequency of non-motor manifestations in cerebellar ataxias, specially in autosomal dominant spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA). Among these non-motor dysfunctions, sleep disorders have been recognized, although still under or even misdiagnosed. In this review, we highlight the main sleep disorders related to cerebellar ataxias focusing on REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), restless legs syndrome (RLS), periodic limb movement in sleep (PLMS), excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), insomnia and sleep apnea.
Subnotificação da comorbidade tuberculose e aids: uma aplicação do método de linkage
Authors: Carvalho Carolina Novaes , Dourado Ines , Bierrenbach Ana Luiza
Published: April 2011

OBJETIVO: Analisar a subnotificação da comorbidade tuberculose (TB) e aids. MÉTODOS: Estudo de vigilância utilizando os registros do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação de Tuberculose e de aids no Brasil de 2000 a 2005. Registros de TB sem informação da presença de aids foram considerados subnotificações da comorbidade quando pareados a registros de aids que apresentassem ano de diagnóstico de aids igual ou anterior ao ano de notificação da TB, assim como os registros de um mesmo paciente cujos registros anteriores apresentavam essa informação. Criou-se um indicador: comorbidade TB-aids reconhecida, a partir dos registros de TB com a informação de presença de aids. RESULTADOS: A subnotificação de TB-aids foi de 17,7%. Esse percentual variou entre estados. A incorporação dos registros subnotificados aos previamente reconhecidos elevou a proporção de TB-aids no Brasil de 6,9% para 8,4%. As maiores proporções de subnotificação foram observadas no Acre, Alagoas, Maranhão e Piauí (mais de 35% cada) e as menores em São Paulo e Goiás (cerca de 10% cada). CONCLUSÕES: A subnotificação da comorbidade TB-aids encontrada no Brasil deve deflagrar modificações no sistema de vigilância para prover informações aos programas nacionais.
Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência: análise da política brasileira
Authors: Machado Cristiani Vieira , Salvador Fernanda Gonçalves Ferreira , O'Dwyer Gisele
Published: April 2011

OBJETIVO: Analisar a conformação da política de atenção móvel às urgências no Brasil. PROCEDIMENTOS METODOLÓGICOS: Com base no referencial da análise de políticas públicas, foram realizados: revisão bibliográfica, análise de documentos e dados oficiais e entrevistas com dirigentes federais relacionados à formulação e implantação do Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência (Samu) no Brasil na década de 2000. ANÁLISE DOS RESULTADOS: O Samu teve prioridade na agenda federal a partir de 2003. Nos primeiros anos de implantação predominaram serviços de abrangência municipal; em 2008, os de abrangência regional tornaram-se mais relevantes. A cobertura estimada alcançou 53,9% da população em 2009, residente em 20,5% dos municípios brasileiros. A implantação variou entre os Estados e houve menos ambulâncias de suporte avançado do que o recomendado, tanto no conjunto do País como em vários Estados. CONCLUSÕES: O Samu foi adotado nacionalmente a partir de 2003, com a elaboração de normas federais. A implantação da política compreende desafios como realização de investimentos adequados, inserção do serviço em uma rede articulada de atendimento de urgência, conformação de sistemas de informações apropriados, capacitação dos profissionais. O enfrentamento desses desafios permitirá que o Samu se configure como uma estratégia estruturante da atenção à saúde no Sistema Único de Saúde.
Dynamic behavior of sylvatic yellow fever in Brazil (1954-2008)
Authors: Câmara Fernando Portela , Gomes Ana Luisa Bessa Bacellar , Carvalho Luiz Max Fagundes de , Castello Luiz Gustavo Veloso
Published: April 2011

INTRODUCTION: Sylvatic yellow fever (SYF) is enzootic in Brazil, causing periodic outbreaks in humans living near forest borders or in rural areas. In this study, the cycling patterns of this arbovirosis were analyzed. METHODS: Spectral Fourier analysis was used to capture the periodicity patterns of SYF in time series. RESULTS: SYF outbreaks have not increased in frequency, only in the number of cases. There are two dominant cycles in SYF outbreaks, a seven year cycle for the central-western region and a 14 year cycle for the northern region. Most of the variance was concentrated in the central-western region and dominated the entire endemic region. CONCLUSIONS: The seven year cycle is predominant in the endemic region of the disease due the greater contribution of variance in the central-western region; however, it was possible identify a 14 cycle that governs SYF outbreaks in the northern region. No periodicities were identified for the remaining geographical regions.
Desafios técnicos e barreiras sociais,econômicas e regulatórias na fitorremediação de solos contaminados
Authors: Marques Marcia , Aguiar Christiane Rosas Chafim , Silva Jonatas José Luiz Soares da
Published: April 2011

A fitorremediação - uso de plantas e comunidades microbianas associadas à rizosfera para degradar, isolar ou imobilizar contaminantes do solo e água - é uma técnica de custo relativamente baixo, vantagens estéticas e que não gera impactos adicionais. A maioria dos estudos com plantas na recuperação de áreas contaminadas tem sido desenvolvida em países de clima temperado, onde o potencial da fitorremediação é limitado por fatores climáticos. No Brasil, o conhecimento acerca do potencial fitorremediador das várias espécies de plantas e comunidades microbianas em solos tropicais é ainda muito escasso, o que, associado à falta de instrumentos de aferição e de apoio à decisão, dificulta a recomendação por parte das agências ambientais e empresas. A presente revisão descreve brevemente os mecanismos de fitorremediação e discute aspectos sociais, econômicos e reguladores que representam entraves ao amplo desenvolvimento da técnica, em comparação com técnicas convencionais, mais conhecidas e aceitas pelas agências e empresas. Finalmente, o mercado brasileiro presente e futuro é discutido, sendo sugerida a criação de protocolos experimentais e instrumentos de apoio à decisão que estimulem a aplicação da fitorremediação nos casos em que ela se apresente como a opção mais adequada.
Relações solo-paisagem em uma topossequência sobre substrato granítico em Santo Antônio do Matupi, Manicoré (AM)
Authors: Campos Milton César Costa , Ribeiro Mateus Rosas , Souza Júnior Valdomiro Severino de , Ribeiro Filho Mateus Rosas , Souza Rômulo Vinícius Cordeiro Conceição de
Published: April 2011

Considerando as dimensões da região amazônica e a necessidade de estudos que estabeleçam conexões entre os solos e a expressão da paisagem, o objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar as relações solo-paisagem em uma topossequência sobre substrato granítico em Santo Antônio do Matupi, Manicoré, AM. Foi estabelecido um caminhamento de 3.000 m a partir do "espigão" da vertente, no seu sentido mais suave, com identificação dos segmentos da vertente com base na "quebra" do declive do terreno. Foram abertas trincheiras nos segmentos de vertente mapeados, e perfis foram caracterizados morfologicamente, coletando-se amostras de seus horizontes. Foram realizadas análises físicas (textura, ADA e GF, Ds e Dp, Pt e CHSS), químicas (pH em água e KCl, Ca, Mg, K, Na e Al trocáveis, P disponível, H + Al e C orgânico; SiO2, Al2O3 e Fe2O3 (método do H2SO4) e óxidos de Fe "livres" extraído com ditionito-citrato-bicarbonato e o Fe mal cristalizado extraído com oxalato de amônio) e mineralógicas (frações areia, silte e argila), usando difratometria de raios X. As variações do relevo favoreceram a presença de solos distróficos nos topos e solos eutróficos no sopé de transporte. As variáveis ΔpH, relação silte/argila, V % e relação Fed/Fet indicaram a presença de solos mais intemperizados nas áreas de topo da paisagem e solos com menor grau de evolução na encosta e no sopé de transporte. A composição mineralógica da fração argila mostrou-se relativamente homogênea, com predominância de caulinita e gibbsita e menor proporção de mica e quartzo.
Ciclagem e balanço de potássio e produtividade de soja na integração lavoura-pecuária sob semeadura direta
Authors: Ferreira Eric Victor de Oliveira , Anghinoni Ibanor , Andrighetti Marcelo Hoerbe , Martins Amanda Posselt , Carvalho Paulo César de Faccio
Published: April 2011

A ciclagem e balanço de nutrientes em sistemas de integração lavoura-pecuária (ILP) são processos que envolvem o componente solo, a planta e o animal, além da fertilização, em que o manejo dos animais, por alterar as condições bióticas e abióticas do solo, altera a velocidade de decomposição dos resíduos. Objetivou-se avaliar a ciclagem e o balanço de K em sistema ILP sob semeadura direta, em função da intensidade de pastejo por bovinos em pastagem, no inverno, e sua relação com a produtividade de soja, cultivada no verão. O experimento foi iniciado em maio de 2001 em Latossolo Vermelho distroférrico, em área que vinha sendo cultivada em semeadura direta desde 1991. Os tratamentos constaram de intensidades de pastejo contínuo, por bovinos jovens, em mistura de azevém + aveia-preta, representados por alturas do pasto: 10, 20, 30 e 40 cm e sem pastejo (testemunha), distribuídos num delineamento experimental de blocos ao acaso, com três repetições, em que se avaliou um ciclo pastagem/soja (safra 2007/08). Na ciclagem, foram considerados os teores de K na pastagem, na soja e nos animais e, no balanço desse nutriente, na lavoura e no solo, foram considerados os seus teores no solo e as entradas, como fertilizante e saídas, nos grãos de soja e no tecido animal. A ciclagem do K aumentou com o aumento da intensidade de pastejo, e o seu balanço no sistema, apesar de negativo, com maior déficit nas áreas com maior intensidade de pastejo, não influenciou a produtividade da soja.