bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of AFLP and SSR markers linked with the male fertility restorer gene of CMS 06J45 in heading Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis)
Authors: Xu Xiaoyong , Sun Xilu , Zhang Yu , Zhang Lugang , Fang Zhiyuan
Published: June 2014

In this study, AFLP and SSR techniques were combined with the bulk segregant analysis (BSA) method to map the restorer gene BrRfp using an F2‐segregating population comprising 258 individuals developed by crossing the polima (pol)‐like cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) line 06J45 and the restorer line 01S325 of heading Chinese cabbage. A survey of 2048 AFLP primer pairs identified 21 polymorphic fragments, approximately half of which exhibited high similarity with the A09 chromosome sequence of Brassica rapa in the Brassica database (BRAD). Based on the genome sequence, three specific AFLP fragments linked with BrRfp were successfully converted into sequence‐characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers, named SC1233, SC2673 and SC2141. Subsequently, 178 pairs of SSR primers were redesigned for further screening, with five producing polymorphic amplification patterns. Linkage analysis showed that these markers were distributed along both sides of the BrRfp gene, with two markers, SSR03 and SSR2528, co‐segregating with the BrRfp locus in the F2 population. These results may be valuable for marker‐assisted selection and map‐based cloning in heading Chinese cabbage.
Using the Fisher–Shannon method to characterize continuous seismic signal during volcanic eruptions: application to 2011–2012 El Hierro (Canary Islands) eruption
Authors: Telesca Luciano , Lovallo Michele , Martì Molist Joan , López Moreno Carmen , Abella Meléndez Rafael
Published: June 2014

We investigated the dynamics of the continuous seismic signal recorded before and during the 2011–2012 El Hierro eruption (Canary Islands) using the innovative approach of the Fisher–Shannon method, a suitable statistical tool for detecting dynamic changes in complex systems. Our findings identify dynamic changes in the seismic signal that can be correlated with different stress states of the magmatic setting and the plumbing system in the volcano at El Hierro. The results contribute to the understanding of the fracturing pattern in the crust during a new intrusion and eruption of an overpressurized batch of magma.
Contextual variability during speech-in-speech recognition
Authors: Brouwer Susanne , Bradlow Ann R.
Published: June 2014

This study examined the influence of background language variation on speech recognition. English listeners performed an English sentence recognition task in either “pure” background conditions in which all trials had either English or Dutch background babble or in mixed background conditions in which the background language varied across trials (i.e., a mix of English and Dutch or one of these background languages mixed with quiet trials). This design allowed the authors to compare performance on identical trials across pure and mixed conditions. The data reveal that speech-in-speech recognition is sensitive to contextual variation in terms of the target-background language (mis)match depending on the relative ease/difficulty of the test trials in relation to the surrounding trials.
Say What? An Analysis of Spontaneous Self-Talk Categorization
Authors: Van Raalte Judy L. , Cornelius Allen E. , Copeskey Maureen K. , Brewer Britton W.
Published: June 2014

Research exploring spontaneously generated self-talk has involved recording performers’ self-talk categorized by researchers. The actor-observer bias, suggests that actors (performers) and observers (researchers) may perceive the same situation (e.g., self-talk) differently. The purpose of this study was to explore the actor-observer bias and validity of self-talk categorization. College students’ (n = 30) spontaneous self-talk was audio recorded during a dart throwing task. Participants then listened to and categorized their self-talk. Three independent researchers reviewed written transcripts and categorized the self-talk. Another three researchers who had not read the transcripts listened to audio recordings and categorized the same self-talk. Results confirmed actor-observer bias predictions. Spontaneous self-talk ratings made by participants were similar to but distinct from those made by researchers reading transcripts or listening to self-talk audio recordings. These results suggest that participant categorization of spontaneous self-talk may be a valid strategy to enhance understanding of self-talk used in competitive settings.
SAGA/ADA Complex Subunit Ada2 Is Required for Cap1- but Not Mrr1-Mediated Upregulation of the Candida albicans Multidrug Efflux Pump
MDR1
Authors: Ramírez-Zavala Bernardo , Mogavero Selene , Schöller Eva , Sasse Christoph , Rogers P. David , Morschhäuser Joachim
Published: June 2014

Overexpression of the multidrug efflux pump
MDR1
is one mechanism by which the pathogenic yeast
Candida albicans
develops resistance to the antifungal drug fluconazole. The constitutive upregulation of
MDR1
in fluconazole-resistant, clinical
C. albicans
isolates is caused by gain-of-function mutations in the zinc cluster transcription factor Mrr1. It has been suggested that Mrr1 activates
MDR1
transcription by recruiting Ada2, a subunit of the SAGA/ADA coactivator complex. However,
MDR1
expression is also regulated by the bZIP transcription factor Cap1, which mediates the oxidative stress response in
C. albicans
. Here, we show that a hyperactive Mrr1 containing a gain-of-function mutation promotes
MDR1
overexpression independently of Ada2. In contrast, a C-terminally truncated, hyperactive Cap1 caused
MDR1
overexpression in a wild-type strain but only weakly in mutants lacking
ADA2
. In the presence of benomyl or H
2
O
2
, compounds that induce
MDR1
expression in an Mrr1- and Cap1-dependent fashion,
MDR1
was upregulated with the same efficiency in wild-type and
ada2
Δ cells. These results indicate that Cap1, but not Mrr1, recruits Ada2 to the
MDR1
promoter to induce the expression of this multidrug efflux pump and that Ada2 is not required for
MDR1
overexpression in fluconazole-resistant
C. albicans
strains containing gain-of-function mutations in Mrr1.
Contribution of the Highly Conserved EaeH Surface Protein to Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli Pathogenesis
Authors: Sheikh Alaullah , Luo Qingwei , Roy Koushik , Shabaan Salwa , Kumar Pardeep , Qadri Firdausi , Fleckenstein James M.
Published: June 2014

Enterotoxigenic
Escherichia coli
(ETEC) strains are among the most common causes of diarrheal illness worldwide. These pathogens disproportionately afflict children in developing countries, where they cause substantial morbidity and are responsible for hundreds of thousands of deaths each year. Although these organisms are important targets for enteric vaccines, most development efforts to date have centered on a subset of plasmid-encoded fimbrial adhesins known as colonization factors and heat-labile toxin (LT). Emerging data suggest that ETEC undergoes considerable changes in its surface architecture, sequentially deploying a number of putative adhesins during its interactions with the host. We demonstrate here that one putative highly conserved, chromosomally encoded adhesin, EaeH, engages the surfaces of intestinal epithelial cells and contributes to bacterial adhesion, LT delivery, and colonization of the small intestine.
Effect of blockade of mGluR5 on stress hormone release and its gene expression in the adrenal gland
Authors: Pokusa Michal , Prokopova Barbora , Hlavacova Natasa , Makatsori Aikaterini , Jezova Daniela
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to verify the presence of metabotropic glutamate receptor subtype 5 (mGluR5) in the adrenal gland of male rats of 2 different strains, and to test the hypothesis that treatment with mGluR5 antagonist 2-methyl-6-(phenylethynyl)-pyridine (MPEP) affects hormone release and adrenal gene expression of mGluR5 under conditions of stress. The results clearly show the gene expression of mGluR5 in the adrenal gland in both the adrenal cortex and medulla. Treatment with the glutamate release inhibitor riluzole (4 mg·(kg body mass)–1·day–1 for 2 weeks) failed to modify mRNA levels of either the mGluR5 or NR1 subunit of the NMDA receptor in the adrenal glands, as measured by real-time PCR. Blockade of mGluR5 with MPEP (1 mg·kg–1 for 4 days) increased corticosterone but not catecholamine release during restraint stress (20 min). Treatment with MPEP had no effect on mRNA levels coding for steroidogenic factors StAR and SF-1, and decreased mGluR5 gene expression in the adrenal gland. In conclusion, mGluR5 is not likely to play a significant role in stress-induced catecholamine release. Pharmacological blockade of mGluR5 has a modest influence on the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenocortical axis, as reflected in adrenal hypertrophy and increased corticosterone concentrations.
Berry phase in a quantum system with time-dependent boundary conditions
Authors: Wang An-Ling , Liu Fu-Ping , Yu Zhao-Xian
Published: June 2014

We discuss the problem of the quantum particle behavior in an infinitely deep elliptical potential well with a moving boundary conditions. We show that this quantum system is equivalent to a particle interacting with a vector field. By introducing the squeezing transformations and making use of the removability of the topological term, the exact Berry phase in a cyclic evolution is calculated.
Economic Vulnerability to Climate Change in Coastal New Jersey: A Stakeholder-Based Assessment
Authors: Leichenko Robin , McDermott Melanie , Bezborodko Ekaterina , Brady Michael , Namendorf Erik
Published: June 2014

This study investigates economic vulnerabilities to climate extremes and climate change in coastal New Jersey before and after Hurricane Sandy. Drawing upon methodological best-practices in climate adaptation and disaster risk management, which emphasize co-production of climate assessment information, the study employs a stakeholder-based approach to identify key climate-related economic stresses, risks and vulnerabilities. Interviews with stakeholders conducted in the months prior to Sandy highlighted a myriad of climatic, environmental and economic stresses in the region and revealed a wide range of economic assets, activities, and populations that are economically vulnerable. Post-Sandy meetings with stakeholders reinforced findings of the pre-Sandy interviews but also brought to light some new and unexpected vulnerabilities. The study illustrates the value of stakeholder participation in economic vulnerability assessments, including deeper and more nuanced understanding of local economic assets, activities, and populations at risk to climate extremes and climate change. The study also demonstrates the importance of stakeholder-engagement for creating buy-in to the climate assessment process and for facilitating new learning opportunities in a post-disaster context. Given climatic non-stationarity and continually evolving economic conditions, stakeholder-based assessments will need to be conducted and updated on an on-going basis in order to ensure continual relevance to post-disaster learning and response.
Interacting with Traditional Chinese Culture through Natural Language
Authors: Wang Xuan , Khoo Eng Tat , Nakatsu Ryohei , Cheok Adrian
Published: June 2014

Intangible cultural heritage represents the cultural identities and diversity of mankind, and should be preserved and passed on to the current and future generations. However, in digital cultural heritage research, intangible cultural heritage has been relatively less studied, and the focus has been placed on creating tools and applications for professionals rather than for the general public. In this paper, we present our research effort on creating an interactive system for conveying traditional Chinese culture through natural language conversation. We propose a systematic method for the domain experts to construct, with minimal effort, the knowledge base from a set of unstructured philosophy texts, and we design an algorithm to build a conversational agent emulating the conversation ability of a famous Chinese philosopher. We also report two evaluation studies on the prototype we developed, showing encouraging results on the feasibility and benefits of our approach. By automating part of the answer-finding task using natural language processing and information retrieval technology, the system is able to find answers dynamically, without the need to manually author large amounts of question and answer pairs. Our proposed method could potentially be used to create other conversational agents for educating and promoting cultural values to the general public in a natural and appealing way.
Regulating N Application for Rice Yield and Sustainable Eco-Agro Development in the Upper Reaches of Yellow River Basin, China
Authors: Zhang Aiping , Liu Ruliang , Gao Ji , Yang Shiqi , Chen Zhe
Published: June 2014

High N fertilizer and flooding irrigation applied to rice on anthropogenic-alluvial soil often result in N leaching and low recovery of applied fertilizer N from the rice fields in Ningxia irrigation region in the upper reaches of the Yellow River, which threatens ecological environment, food security, and sustainable agricultural development. This paper reported the regulating N application for rice yield and sustainable Eco-Agro development in the upper reaches of Yellow River basin. The results showed that reducing and postponing N application could maintain crop yields while substantially reducing N leaching losses to the environment and improving the nitrogen use efficiency. Considering the high food production, the minimum environmental threat, and the low labor input, we suggested that regulating N application is an important measure to help sustainable agricultural development in this region.
Recovery of Dysphagia in Lateral Medullary Stroke
Authors: Gupta Hitesh , Banerjee Alakananda
Published: June 2014

Lateral medullary stroke is typically associated with increased likelihood of occurrence of dysphagia and exhibits the most severe and persistent form. Worldwide little research exists on dysphagia in brainstem stroke. An estimated 15% of all patients admitted to stroke rehabilitation units experience a brainstem stroke out of which about 47% suffer from dysphagia. In India, a study showed that 22.3% of posterior circulation stroke patients develop dysphagia. Dearth of literature on dysphagia and its outcome in brainstem stroke particularly lateral medullary stroke motivated the author to present an actual case study of a patient who had dysphagia following a lateral medullary infarct. This paper documents the severity and management approach of dysphagia in brainstem stroke, with traditional dysphagia therapy and VitalStim therapy. Despite being diagnosed with a severe form of dysphagia followed by late treatment intervention, the patient had complete recovery of the swallowing function.
Full Kinetics and a Mechanistic Investigation of the Green Protocol for Synthesis of β-Aminoketone in the Presence of Saccharose as a Catalyst by a One-Pot Three-Component Reaction
Authors: Habibi-Khorassani Sayyed Mostafa , Maghsoodlou Malek Taher , Shahraki Mehdi , Talaie Far Sadegh , Mousavi Mir Rasul
Published: June 2014

For the first time, in a green protocol, an investigation of the kinetics and mechanism of the reaction between benzaldehyde 1, 4-chloroanilinne 2, and acetophenone 3 compounds in the presence of saccharose as a catalyst was performed for generating β-aminoketone. For determining the kinetic parameters, the reaction was monitored by using the UV/Vis spectrophotometry technique. The second order rate constant (k1) was automatically calculated by the standard equations contained within the program. In the studied temperature range, the second order rate constant (ln k1, ln k1/T) depended on reciprocal temperature that was in good consistent with Arrhenius and Eyring equations, respectively. These data provided the suitable plots for calculating the activation energy and parameters (Ea, ΔG‡, ΔS‡, and ΔH‡) of the reaction. Furthermore, useful information was obtained from studying the effects of solvent, concentration, and catalyst on the reaction mechanism. The results showed that the first step of the reaction mechanism is a rate determining step (RDS). The obtained experimental data and also the steady state assumption confirmed the proposed mechanism.
From Innate to Adaptive Immune Response in Muscular Dystrophies and Skeletal Muscle Regeneration: The Role of Lymphocytes
Authors: Madaro Luca , Bouché Marina
Published: June 2014

Skeletal muscle is able to restore contractile functionality after injury thanks to its ability to regenerate. Following muscle necrosis, debris is removed by macrophages, and muscle satellite cells (MuSCs), the muscle stem cells, are activated and subsequently proliferate, migrate, and form muscle fibers restoring muscle functionality. In most muscle dystrophies (MDs), MuSCs fail to properly proliferate, differentiate, or replenish the stem cell compartment, leading to fibrotic deposition. However, besides MuSCs, interstitial nonmyogenic cells and inflammatory cells also play a key role in orchestrating muscle repair. A complete understanding of the complexity of these mechanisms should allow the design of interventions to attenuate MDs pathology without disrupting regenerative processes. In this review we will focus on the contribution of immune cells in the onset and progression of MDs, with particular emphasis on Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). We will briefly summarize the current knowledge and recent advances made in our understanding of the involvement of different innate immune cells in MDs and will move on to critically evaluate the possible role of cell populations within the acquired immune response. Revisiting previous observations in the light of recent evidence will likely change our current view of the onset and progression of the disease.
Effect of Heating Method on Hydrogen Production by Biomass Gasification in Supercritical Water
Authors: Yan Qiuhui , Zhang Hong , Sun Bingjie , Guo Liejin
Published: June 2014

The glucose as a test sample of biomass is gasified in supercritical water with different heating methods driven by renewable solar energy. The performance comparisons of hydrogen production of glucose gasification are investigated. The relations between temperature raising speed of reactant fluid, variation of volume fraction, combustion enthalpy, and chemical exergy of H2of the product gases with reactant solution concentration are presented, respectively. The results show that the energy quality of product gases with preheating process is higher than that with no preheating unit for hydrogen production. Hydrogen production quantity and gasification rate of glucose decrease obviously with the increase of concentration of material in no preheating system.
Phylogenetic Analysis of H7N9 Avian Influenza Virus Based on a Novel Mathematical Descriptor
Authors: Bai Yusheng , Ma Tingting , Yao Yuhua , Dai Qi , He Ping-an
Published: June 2014

A new mathematical descriptor was proposed based on 3D graphical representation. Using the method, we construct the phylogenetic trees of nine proteins of H7N9 influenza virus to analyze the originated source of H7N9. The results show that the evolution route of H7N9 avian influenza is from America through Europe to Asia. Furthermore, two samples collected from environment in Nanjing and Zhejiang and one sample collected from chicken are the sources of H7N9 influenza virus that infected human in China.
Spinal fMRI of Interoceptive Attention/Awareness in Experts and Novices
Authors: Kashkouli Nejad Keyvan , Sugiura Motoaki , Thyreau Benjamin , Nozawa Takayuki , Kotozaki Yuka , Furusawa Yoshihito , Nishino Kozo , Nukiwa Toshohiro , Kawashima Ryuta
Published: June 2014

Many disciplines/traditions that promote interoceptive (inner sensation of body parts) attention/awareness (IAA) train practitioners to both attend to and be aware of interoceptive sensory experiences in body parts. The effect of such practices has been investigated in previous imaging studies but limited to cerebral neural activity. Here, for the first time, we studied the impact of these practices on the spinal neural activity of experts and novices. We also attempted to clarify the effect of constant and deep breathing, a paradigm utilized in concentration practices to avoid mind wandering, on IAA-related spinal neural activity. Subjects performed IAA tasks with and without a deep and constant breathing pattern in two sessions. Results showed that neural activity in the spinal segment innervating the attended-to body area increased in experts (P=0.04) when they performed IAA and that this increase was significantly larger for experts versus novices in each of the sessions (P=0.024). The significant effects of IAA and expertise on spinal neural activity are consistent with and elaborate on previous reports showing similar effects on cerebral neural activity. As the spinal cord directly innervates body parts, the results might indicate that IAA has an instantaneous (possibly beneficial) effect on the physical body after extended training.
Comparative Study of Textural Characteristics on Methane Adsorption for Carbon Spheres Produced by CO2Activation
Authors: Yang Wen , Feng Yanyan , Chu Wei
Published: June 2014

Resorcinol-formaldehyde resin polymer was used as raw material for preparation of carbon spheres. Samples were treated with CO2flow at 850°C by varying activation times. The CO2activation granted better pore development of pore structure. The experimental data of CH4adsorption as a function of equilibrium pressure was fitted by Langmuir and Dubinin-Astakhov (D-A) models. It was concluded that the high surface area and micropore volume of carbon spheres did unequivocally determine methane capacities. In addition, a thermodynamic study of the heat of adsorption of CH4on the carbon spheres was carried out. Adsorption of CH4on carbon spheres showed a decrease in the adsorption heat with CH4occupancy, and the heat of adsorption fell from 20.51 to 12.50 kJ/mol at 298 K and then increased to a little higher values at a very high loading (>0.70), indicating that CH4/CH4interactions within the adsorption layer became significant.
Circulating Levels of Sirtuin 4, a Potential Marker of Oxidative Metabolism, Related to Coronary Artery Disease in Obese Patients Suffering from NAFLD, with Normal or Slightly Increased Liver Enzymes
Authors: Tarantino Giovanni , Finelli Carmine , Scopacasa Franco , Pasanisi Fabrizio , Contaldo Franco , Capone Domenico , Savastano Silvia
Published: June 2014

The present study shows low circulating levels of SIRT4 in obese patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease mirroring its reduced mitochondrial expression in an attempt to increase the fat oxidative capacity and then the mitochondrial function in liver and in muscle. SIRT4 modulates the metabolism of free fatty acids reducing their high circulating levels but, unfortunately, increasing ROS production. Great concentration of free fatty acids, released by adipose tissue, coupled with oxidative stress, directly results in endothelial dysfunction, early atherosclerosis, and coronary artery disease risk factor.
Regulation of Mitochondrial Genome Inheritance by Autophagy and Ubiquitin-Proteasome System: Implications for Health, Fitness, and Fertility
Authors: Song Won-Hee , Ballard John William Oman , Yi Young-Joo , Sutovsky Peter
Published: June 2014

Mitochondria, the energy-generating organelles, play a role in numerous cellular functions including adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, cellular homeostasis, and apoptosis. Maternal inheritance of mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is universally observed in humans and most animals. In general, high levels of mitochondrial heteroplasmy might contribute to a detrimental effect on fitness and disease resistance. Therefore, a disposal of the sperm-derived mitochondria inside fertilized oocytes assures normal preimplantation embryo development. Here we summarize the current research and knowledge concerning the role of autophagic pathway and ubiquitin-proteasome-dependent proteolysis in sperm mitophagy in mammals, including humans. Current data indicate that sperm mitophagy inside the fertilized oocyte could occur along multiple degradation routes converging on autophagic clearance of paternal mitochondria. The influence of assisted reproductive therapies (ART) such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), mitochondrial replacement (MR), and assisted fertilization of oocytes from patients of advanced reproductive age on mitochondrial function, inheritance, and fitness and for the development and health of ART babies will be of particular interest to clinical audiences. Altogether, the study of sperm mitophagy after fertilization has implications in the timing of evolution and developmental and reproductive biology and in human health, fitness, and management of mitochondrial disease.
Selective Activity of the Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor AR-42 against Leukemia Stem Cells: A Novel Potential Strategy in Acute Myelogenous Leukemia
Authors: Guzman Monica L. , Yang Neng , Sharma Krishan K. , Balys Marlene , Corbett Cheryl A. , Jordan Craig T. , Becker Michael W. , Steidl Ulrich , Abdel-Wahab Omar , Levine Ross L. , Marcucci Guido , Roboz Gail J. , Hassane Duane C.
Published: June 2014

Most patients with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) relapse and die of their disease. Increasing evidence indicates that AML relapse is driven by the inability to eradicate leukemia stem cells (LSC). Thus, it is imperative to identify novel therapies that can ablate LSCs. Using an in silico gene expression–based screen for compounds evoking transcriptional effects similar to the previously described anti-LSC agent parthenolide, we identified AR-42 (OSU-HDAC42), a novel histone deacetylase inhibitor that is structurally similar to phenylbutyrate, but with improved activity at submicromolar concentrations. Here, we report that AR-42 induces NF-κB inhibition, disrupts the ability of Hsp90 to stabilize its oncogenic clients, and causes potent and specific cell death of LSCs but not normal hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. Unlike parthenolide, the caspase-dependent apoptosis caused by AR-42 occurs without activation of Nrf-2–driven cytoprotective pathways. As AR-42 is already being tested in early clinical trials, we expect that our results can be extended to the clinic. Mol Cancer Ther; 13(8); 1979–90. ©2014 AACR.
Children's Initiative in Family Household Work in Mexico
Authors: Coppens Andrew D. , Alcalá Lucia , Mejía-Arauz Rebeca , Rogoff Barbara
Published: June 2014

Children's views on their household work as mutual contribution within the family may encourage their initiative in pitching in. We asked 9- and 10-year-old children from a Mexican city how they viewed child participation in family household work. Almost all of the 16 children reported that children want to contribute to family household work, which they regarded as the shared responsibility of everyone in the family. However, the 8 children who lived in an Indigenous-heritage community were more often reported to take initiative to make broad and complex work contributions than children from a newly schooled community. The children in the Indigenous-heritage community more often emphasized their mutual coordination and collaboration with other members of the family, whereas children from the newly schooled community often focused on their personal contributions. We examine cultural values that may support children in viewing household work as part of being a responsible family member, and consider the possibility that these encourage children's development of initiative.
Prenatal Infection Affects the Neuronal Architecture and Cognitive Function in Adult Mice
Authors: Li Wai-Yu , Chang Yi-Chun , Lee L. Jyuhn-Hsiarn , Lee Li-Jen
Published: June 2014

Environmental factors such as prenatal infection are involved in the pathogenic processes of neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders. In the present study, we administered a viral mimic, polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylic acid (poly I:C, 20 mg/kg, i.p.), to pregnant B6 mice at gestational day 9.5. Neonates born to these poly I:C-treated dams showed an increase of microglia in the hippocampus, indicating an activation of the immune system in the brains. Moreover, a significant increase in the number of dopamine-producing neurons in the ventral tegmental area was observed in adult male poly I:C offspring compared with age-matched saline offspring. Poly I:C offspring also exhibited hypolocomotor activity in a novel open-field arena but did not display signs of anxiety or depression in the elevated plus maze or the forced swim test, respectively. However, the short-term memory of the poly I:C offspring was impaired in a novel object recognition task. Therefore, the dendritic architecture of granule cells in the dentate gyrus (DG) and pyramidal neurons in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) were examined. The dendritic complexity was reduced in the DG granule cells of the poly I:C offspring and exhibited shorter dendritic length compared with the saline offspring. The density of dendritic spines in the DG granule cells was also decreased in the poly I:C offspring. Furthermore, the dendritic complexity and spine density were reduced in layer II/III mPFC pyramidal neurons of the poly I:C offspring. Together, these data demonstrate impaired short-term memory and altered dendritic architecture in adult poly I:C offspring, which validates the prenatal infection paradigm as a model for neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders.
Detection of Common and Less Frequent EGFR Mutations in Cytological Samples of Lung Cancer
Authors: Rossi Esther D. , Gerhard Renê , Cirnes Luis , Machado José Carlos , Schmitt Fernando
Published: June 2014

Objective: Lung cancer represents the leading cause of cancer death. EGFR mutations, detected in 10-40% of lung adenocarcinomas, are an essential key to therapeutic management. EGFR-activated mutations comprise mainly deletions in exon 19 and point mutations in exon 21. Although histology is the traditional method of detection, we investigated the role of cytology in EGFR mutations. Study Design: A total of 774 lung cancers were studied for EGFR mutations (676 histological and 98 cytological samples), including 424 adenocarcinomas, 326 non-small cell lung carcinomas not otherwise specified, and 24 squamous cell carcinomas. Results: We had a total of 164 (21.2%) cases of mutations. Common mutations were short in-frame deletions in exon 19 (53.7%) and single-nucleotide substitutions in exon 21 (34.1%); less frequent mutations included single-nucleotide substitutions in exon 18 (3.7%) and in-frame insertions/deletions in exon 20 (8.5%). Histologically, EGFR mutations in exons 19 and 21 occurred in 19.4% and in exons 18 and 20 in 2.2%, while the rates cytologically were 13.3% for exons 19 and 21 and 5.1% for exons 18 and 20. Conclusions: The sensitivity for the detection of EGFR mutations in cytological samples overlaps histology, so the use of cytological material constitutes an adequate approach for treatment selection in patients with locally advanced or metastatic lung cancer.
Differential Effect of COX1 and COX2 Inhibitors on Renal Outcomes following Ischemic Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Bischoff Ariane , Bucher Michael , Gekle Michael , Sauvant Christoph
Published: June 2014

Background/Aims: We have previously shown that 1 mg/kg indomethacin improves expression and functionality of renal organic anion transporters Oat1 and Oat3 after renal ischemia and furthermore improves renal outcome after ischemia. As we detected differential effects of COX1 or COX2 inhibitors on organic anion transport after ischemia and reperfusion in culture, we investigated the effect of the SC560 (COX1 inhibitor) and SC58125 (COX2 inhibitor) on expression of Oat1/3 and renal outcome after ischemic acute kidney injury (iAKI). Methods: iAKI was induced in rats by bilateral clamping of renal arteries for 45 min. SC560 or SC58125 (1 mg/kg each) were given intraperitoneally as soon as reperfusion started. Sham-treated animals served as controls. Oat1/3 were determined by qPCR and Western blot. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), p-aminohippurate (PAH) clearance and PAH extraction ratio was determined. All parameters were detected 24 h after ischemia. Renal plasma flow was calculated. Results: In clamped animals SC560 (COX1 inhibitor) restored expression of Oat1/3, as well as renal perfusion. Additionally, SC560 substantially improved kidney function as measured by GFR. Application of the COX2 inhibitor SC58125 did not exert these beneficial effects. Conclusion: Our study indicates that COX1 inhibitor SC560 applied after ischemia prevents ischemia-induced downregulation of Oat1/3 during reperfusion and has a substantial protective effect on kidney function. Whether and to what particular extent this apparent improvement of function is mechanistically due to beneficial effects on tubular function, renal perfusion or glomerular filtration will be the scope of future studies.
Análise gráfica e hermenêutica no ensino de projeto
Authors: Berredo Hilton Esteves de
Published: June 2014

Em diversas escolas de arquitetura do Brasil, a análise gráfica desempenha um papel importante na estratégia de ensino de projeto, atuando na promoção do entendimento das referências projetuais. Este artigo argumenta que se a finalidade de toda análise é encontrar alguma síntese, a pedagogia da análise gráfica deve adentrar o campo da hermenêutica à procura de uma visão integrada dos problemas complexos da arquitetura.
Automedicação em acadêmicos do curso de medicina
Authors: Silva Ruan C. G. , Oliveira Thaís M. , Casimiro Tatiana S. , Vieira Karen A. M. , Tardivo Márcia T. , Faria Junior Milton , Restini Carolina B. A.
Published: June 2014

Objetivo: Avaliar a automedicação em estudantes do curso de Medicina da Universidade de RibeirãoPreto (UNAERP) no ano de 2008. Métodos: Estudo transversal quantitativo, realizado no ano de 2008,no qual 200 alunos do curso de Medicina da UNAERP responderam a um questionário autoaplicado,contendo questões de múltipla escolha sobre a prática da automedicação, no intuito de conheceraspectos do consumo de medicamentos. Para análise estatística foi empregado o teste de correlaçãode Pearson. Considerou-se como base o intervalo de confiança de 95%. O estudo foi aprovado peloComitê de Ética da UNAERP. Resultados: Observaram-se 58,5% de participantes do sexo feminino. Amédia de idade foi de 21,5 anos. A prevalência da automedicação foi de 92,0%. As prevalências entre osalunos das diferentes etapas do curso não foram significativamente diferentes: 86,6%, 90,0%, 93,3%,94,4% e 97,1%, respectivamente, entre os alunos do 1º ao 4º ano e internato. A aquisição de medicamentos controlados, sem apresentação da prescrição, ocorreu entre 6,5% dos alunos e 69,5% responderam já terem indicado medicamentos para outras pessoas. Os medicamentos mais consumidos naforma de automedicação foram analgésicos e antitérmicos (90,2%); anti-inflamatórios não esteroidais(85,3%); antigripais em geral (75,5%); descongestionantes nasais (69,0%) e antibióticos (47,2%). Conclusões: A taxa da prática de automedicação entre os estudantes de Medicina analisados foi superior àobservada em pesquisas nacionais ou internacionais. A automedicação entre os estudantes de medicina é um problema importante que necessita de intervenção, sobretudo das estruturas educacionaisacadêmicas
Indução de Diabetes Tipo 2 por dieta hiperlipídica e baixa dose de estreptozotocina em ratas wistar
Authors: Correia-Santos André M. , Suzuki Akemi , Anjos Juliana S. , Rêgo Thaís S. , Almeida Kátia C.L. , Boaventura Gilson T.
Published: June 2014

O objetivo do presente estudo experimental foi desenvolver um modelo animal de diabetes tipo 2 que mimetizasse o curso natural e metabólico desta doença em humanos. Assim, foi oferecida uma dieta hiperlipídica (com aproximadamente 60% das calorias totais provenientes de lipídeos) por três semanas, estabelecendo então, um quadro de resistência à insulina. Em seguida, as ratas foram submetidas a uma dose única de estreptozotocina (STZ) (35mg/kg de peso corporal) em veículo de tampão citrato (pH: 4,4). Após 1 semana da injeção de STZ, as ratas foram submetidas ao teste oral de tolerância à glicose, mediante administração oral de glicose (2g glicose/kg de massa corporal). Os dados foram submetidos à comparação entre os grupos utilizando-se o teste t. A significância em todos os testes se deu ao nível de p ≤ 0,05. O grupo controle manteve a concentração média de glicose final igual a inicial. Após ingestão da dieta hiperlipídica houve um aumento da glicemia de jejum em cerca de 16,5% em relação ao momento inicial do experimento (P<0,0001) enquanto os animais que receberam a dieta controle apresentaram um aumento aproximado de 8,7%. Uma semana após a administração intraperitoneal de STZ, pode-se verificar aumento da concentração média de glicose no grupo hiperlipídico em cerca de 194,2%, representando um aumento de 275,8% (P<0,0001) quando comparado ao GC. O presente estudo retrata que a combinação de uma dieta hiperlipídica e baixa dose de estreptozotocina serve como um modelo animal alternativo para a diabetes tipo 2 simulando a síndrome em humanos.
Características sociodemográficas, clínicas e histopatológica de pacientes com carcinoma epidermóide de lábio: uma análise retrospectiva (1997-2004)
Authors: Sena Marina Fernandes de , Costa Anna Paula S. da , Ferreira Maria Ângela Fernandes
Published: June 2014

Modelo do estudo: Transversal retrospectivo. Objetivo: Descrever as características sociodemográficas,clínicas e histopatológicas dos pacientes com carcinoma epidermóide de lábio atendidos no Hospital Dr. Luiz Antônio (Natal-RN) nos anos de 1997 a 2004. Metodologia: Foram examinados 173 prontuários e coletadas informações referentes a idade, cor, escolaridade, exposição do indivíduo a fatores de risco(tabaco, álcool e exposição solar) e as características clínicas e histológicas (localização anatômica,diâmetro e estadiamento clínico e histológico, extensão do tumor e graduação histológica de malignidade). Os dados foram apresentados de maneira descritiva por meio de números absolutos, percentuais,medidas de tendência central e de variabilidade. Resultados: A média de idades dos pacientes foi de 66,55 anos, com predomínio do sexo masculino (69,36%), indivíduos com baixo nível de escolaridade(67,08%), histórico de hábito tabagista (89,58%) e atividade ocupacional relacionada à exposição solar(64,64%). Foi contatada uma maior frequência de carcinoma epidermóide moderadamente diferenciado (79,76%), no lábio inferior (78,61%), lesões com até 2 cm de diâmetro (52,33%) e no estadiamento inicial. Conclusão: As lesões de câncer de lábio foram predominantemente localizadas e de baixa malignidade, prevalecendo em indivíduos do sexo masculino, idosos e com baixo nível de escolaridade. A presença de exposição aos fatores de risco, raios ultravioleta e fumo, deve ser considerada nesta população.
Gammaglobulins in critical care
Authors: Carmona Fabio
Published: June 2014

The use of intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) is relatively infrequent in patients admitted to intensive care units (ICUs). However, “off-label” IVIG prescriptions for different conditions are highly prevalent. The aim of this paper is to review the existing evidence for the use of IVIG in patients admitted to ICUs, emphasizing non-infectious diseases and complications: hypogammaglobulinemia of the critically ill,hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), Kawasaki disease (KD), chylothorax, acute myocarditis, toxic shock syndrome (TSS), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS)/toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and sepsis.In conclusion, in critically ill patients, IVIG use is of benefit in KD, GBS, and TSS. It may benefit patients with fulminant acute myocarditis. The benefit is not proven in patients with HLH, chylothorax, and SJS/TEN.
On Argentocypris sara gen. nov., sp. nov. (Ostracoda) from the Patagonian wetlands of Argentina
Authors: Díaz Analia R. , Martens Koen
Published: June 2014

We describe Argentocypris sara, a new genus and species from a Patagonian lake in the province of Neuquén, Argentina. The genus and species clearly belong to the tribe Eucypridini, and as such have a rather isolated biogeographical position in South America. The genus can be distinguished from other Eucypridini based on both valve (large external Porenwarzen, anterior selvage and posterior inner list on RV) and soft part features (cylindrical shape of second distal segment of Mx1-palp, length ratio setae d1 = c 3 × d2 on T2, curved attachment of caudal ramus). A study of the literature reveals that several other nominal species can be transferred to this genus. Nevertheless, at least two of these species (A. virgata n. comb. and A. labyrinthica n. comb.) are based on juvenile fossil specimens only and their identity is uncertain. Two other species (A. fontana n. comb. and A. sarsi n. comb.) are based on adult morphology.
The Impact of Climate Change on Indigenous Peoples’ Land Tenure and Use
Authors: Hansungule Michelo , Jegede Ademola Oluborode
Published: June 2014

In Africa, owing to a lifestyle that is culturally and collectively dependent on land and its natural resources, indigenous peoples are adversely affected by climate change. This is despite the fact that they contribute least to its cause. While this situation requires the protection of indigenous peoples’ land tenure and use, this is generally not yet the reality in the domestic laws of states in Africa. Premised on four propositions, this article makes a case for a regional policy to safeguard indigenous peoples’ land tenure and use in the light of climate change challenge in Africa. In the main, the propositions are: the indigenous peoples have a distinctive perception of land tenure and use relevant for adaptation and mitigation purposes; the land tenure and use is adversely affected by climate change; there is weak protection of indigenous peoples’ land tenure and use under the national and international climate change response frameworks, particularly the National Adaptation Programmes Plan of Action (napa) documentation as well as land-related Clean Development Mechanism (cdm) and redd+ mitigation initiatives; and there are emerging regional activities with the potential to crystallise into a statement of policy. The proposed policy which should embody detailed normative and institutional safeguards on land tenure and use, the article recommends, can be initiated by the African Ministerial Conference on the Environment (amcen) and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (African Commission) for the protection of indigenous peoples facing the adverse impact of climate change in Africa.
Clouds, Aerosols, and Precipitation in the Marine Boundary Layer: An Arm Mobile Facility Deployment
Authors: Wood Robert , Wyant Matthew , Bretherton Christopher S. , Rémillard Jasmine , Kollias Pavlos , Fletcher Jennifer , Stemmler Jayson , de Szoeke Simone , Yuter Sandra , Miller Matthew , Mechem David , Tselioudis George , Chiu J. Christine , Mann Julian A. L. , O’Connor Ewan J. , Hogan Robin J. , Dong Xiquan , Miller Mark , Ghate Virendra , Jefferson Anne , Min Qilong , Minnis Patrick , Palikonda Rabindra , Albrecht Bruce , Luke Ed , Hannay Cecile , Lin Yanluan
Published: June 2014

The Clouds, Aerosol, and Precipitation in the Marine Boundary Layer (CAP-MBL) deployment at Graciosa Island in the Azores generated a 21-month (April 2009–December 2010) comprehensive dataset documenting clouds, aerosols, and precipitation using the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program (ARM) Mobile Facility (AMF). The scientific aim of the deployment is to gain improved understanding of the interactions of clouds, aerosols, and precipitation in the marine boundary layer.

Graciosa Island straddles the boundary between the subtropics and midlatitudes in the northeast Atlantic Ocean and consequently experiences a great diversity of meteorological and cloudiness conditions. Low clouds are the dominant cloud type, with stratocumulus and cumulus occurring regularly. Approximately half of all clouds contained precipitation detectable as radar echoes below the cloud base. Radar and satellite observations show that clouds with tops from 1 to 11 km contribute more or less equally to surface-measured precipitation at Graciosa. A wide range of aerosol conditions was sampled during the deployment consistent with the diversity of sources as indicated by back-trajectory analysis. Preliminary findings suggest important two-way interactions between aerosols and clouds at Graciosa, with aerosols affecting light precipitation and cloud radiative properties while being controlled in part by precipitation scavenging.

The data from Graciosa are being compared with short-range forecasts made with a variety of models. A pilot analysis with two climate and two weather forecast models shows that they reproduce the observed time-varying vertical structure of lower-tropospheric cloud fairly well but the cloud-nucleating aerosol concentrations less well. The Graciosa site has been chosen to be a permanent fixed ARM site that became operational in October 2013.
MMP Inhibitors on Dentin Stability
Authors: Montagner A.F. , Sarkis-Onofre R. , Pereira-Cenci T. , Cenci M.S.
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature for in vitro and ex vivo studies that evaluated the effect of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitors during the adhesive procedure on the immediate and long-term resin-dentin bond strength. The search was conducted in 6 databases with no publication year or language limits, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. From 1,336 potentially eligible studies, 48 were selected for full-text analysis, and 30 were included for review, with 17 considered in the meta-analysis. Two reviewers independently selected the studies, extracted the data, and assessed the risk of bias. Pooled effect estimates were expressed as the weighted mean difference between groups. The most used MMP inhibitor was chlorhexidine (CHX). Immediate bond strength results showed no difference between 2% CHX and control; however, a difference was found between 0.2% CHX and control at baseline. After aging, CHX presented higher bond strength values compared to control groups ( p < .05). However, this was not observed for longer periods of aging. High heterogeneity was found in some comparisons, especially for the water storage aging subgroup. Subgroup analyses showed that self-etching and etch-and-rinse adhesives are benefited by the CHX use. From the studies included, only 1 presented low risk of bias, while the others showed medium or high risk of bias. The use of MMP inhibitors did not affect the immediate bond strength overall, while it influenced the aged bond strength. Aging procedures influenced bond strength values of the dentin adhesion stability.