bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epithelial cell-cell contacts regulate SRF-mediated transcription via Rac-actin-MAL signalling
Authors: Busche Stephan , Descot Arnaud , Julien Sylvia , Genth Harald , Posern Guido
Published: March 2008

Epithelial cell-cell junctions are specialised structures connecting individual cells in epithelial tissues. They are dynamically and functionally linked to the actin cytoskeleton. Disassembly of these junctions is a key event during physiological and pathological processes, but how this influences gene expression is largely uncharacterised. Here, we investigate whether junction disassembly regulates transcription by serum response factor (SRF) and its coactivator MAL/MRTF. Ca2+-dependent dissociation of epithelial integrity was found to correlate strictly with SRF-mediated transcription. In cells lacking E-cadherin expression, no SRF activation was observed. Direct evidence is provided that signalling occurs via monomeric actin and MAL. Dissociation of epithelial junctions is accompanied by induction of RhoA and Rac1. However, using clostridial cytotoxins, we demonstrate that Rac, but not RhoA, is required for SRF and target gene induction in epithelial cells, in contrast to serum-stimulated fibroblasts. Actomyosin contractility is a prerequisite for signalling but failed to induce SRF activation, excluding a sufficient role of the Rho-ROCK-actomyosin pathway. We conclude that E-cadherin-dependent cell-cell junctions facilitate transcriptional activation via Rac, G-actin, MAL and SRF upon epithelial disintegration.
Effectiveness of endovenous laser treatment in eliminating superficial venous reflux
Authors: Elmore F A , Lackey D
Published: March 2008

Objective

To describe a protocol for endovenous laser treatment that is highly effective, has no significant complications, and is well accepted by patients. This is the first published report that designates complete absence of the treated vein as the definition of a successful endovenous laser treatment.

Methods

A retrospective review of 516 endovenous laser treatments performed by a single physician in private medical practice over a 69-month period. Follow-up ranged from 3 to 65 months. All treatments were performed utilizing 810 nm laser energy (Diomed, Inc.). Periodic duplex ultrasound examinations were performed until the treated vein was absent. Surveys were done to assess post treatment pain and to evaluate the effect of treatment on quality of life.

Results

The described protocol for endovenous laser treatment has successfully eliminated 98.1% of 516 treated veins with a single laser treatment. Additionally, in the last 386 treated veins when increased energy levels were utilized, the success rate was 99.7%. There were no significant complications. Patient satisfaction with the procedure is extremely high.

Conclusions

Endovenous laser treatment is a highly effective procedure for eliminating superficial venous reflux in varicose veins selected for treatment when sufficient 810 nm (Diomed, Inc.) laser energy is utilized.
Optimal Pricing and Return Policies for Perishable Commodities
Authors: Pasternack Barry Alan
Published: March 2008

This paper considers the pricing decision faced by a producer of a commodity with a short shelf or demand life. A hierarchical model is developed, and the results of the single period inventory model are used to examine possible pricing and return policies. The paper shows that several such policies currently in effect are suboptimal. These include those where the manufacturer offers retailers full credit for all unsold goods or where no returns of unsold goods are permitted. The paper also demonstrates that a policy whereby a manufacturer offers retailers full credit for a partial return of goods may achieve channel coordination, but that the optimal return allowance will be a function of retailer demand. Therefore, such a policy cannot be optimal in a multi-retailer environment. It is proven, however, that a pricing and return policy in which a manufacturer offers retailers a partial credit for all unsold goods can achieve channel coordination in a multi-retailer environment.

This article was originally published in Marketing Science, Volume 4, Issue 2, pages 166–176, in 1985.
Vernakalant in the Management of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Cheng Judy WM
Published: March 2008

OBJECTIVE:

To review the pharmacology and clinical evidence of the use of vernakalant in the management of atrial fibrillation (AF).

DATA SOURCES:

Peer-reviewed articles published in the English language were identified from MEDLINE and Current Contents databases (both 1966–March 5, 2008) using the search terms RSD 1235 and vernakalant. Citations from available articles and recent meeting abstracts were reviewed for additional references. During the preparation of this article, vernakalant was being reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Therefore, information posted on the FDA Web site was also evaluated.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

Phase 2 and Phase 3 clinical studies of both intravenous and oral vernakalant were reviewed. The design and results of the studies were critically evaluated.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Vernakalant is a sodium and ultra-rapid potassium channel blocker with atrial selective effects. In 2 clinical studies evaluating use of intravenous vernakalant in cardioversion of patients with recent-onset AF, vernakalant improved the chance of restoration of normal sinus rhythm (combined results 51% vs 3.8% with placebo; p < 0.001). In postoperative AF, intravenous vernakalant also improved the chance of restoration of normal sinus rhythm (45% vs 15% with placebo; p = 0.0002). Early Phase 2 studies demonstrated that oral vernakalant 300 mg or 600 mg twice daily successfully maintained sinus rhythm compared with placebo. No proarrhythmias relating to vernakalant have been reported to date. Common adverse effects include dysgeusia, sneezing, and paresthesia.

CONCLUSIONS:

Vernakalant is a new atrial-selective antiarrhythmic agent. Phase 3 clinical trials of the intravenous formulation and early Phase 2 studies of the oral formulation demonstrated vernakalant to be efficacious and safe in converting recent-onset AF to sinus rhythm. Further studies are needed to explore the efficacy and safety of vernakalant use in patients with severe heart failure and AF, as well as its relative efficacy and safety compared with other antiarrhythmic agents, especially with long-term use.
Verteilung klinisch-chemischer Kenngrößen in der deutschen Bevölkerung im Alter von 0 bis 18 Jahren: Erste Ergebnisse des Kinder-und Jugendgesundheitssurvey (KiGGS) / Biochemical analytes in the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents (KiGGS)
Authors: Thierfelder Wulf , Dortschy Reinhard , Hintzpeter Birte , Kahl Heidrun , Scheidt-Nave Christa
Published: March 2008

Im Rahmen des Kinder - und Jugendgesundheitssurveys (KiGGS) in Deutschland wurde eine Reihe verschiedener klinisch-chemischer Laborparameter bestimmt, um Elternangaben und anthropometrische Messdaten zu bestehenden Erkrankungen und Gesundheitsrisiken durch weitere objektive Messdaten zu ergänzen. Insgesamt wurden 43 Parameter zu drei wesentlichen Themenbereichen erhoben: Nährstoffmangel, Seroepidemiologie zu durchgemachten Infektionskrankheiten und Impfstatus sowie Risikoindikatoren und Risikofaktoren für chronische, nicht-übertragbare Erkrankungen. Je nach Verfügbarkeit valider Referenzbereiche oder Schwellenwerte speziell für Kinder und Jugendliche sowie in Abhängigkeit vom Standardisierungsgrad der jeweiligen Untersuchungsmethodik wurden die Laborparameter in fünf Bewertungskategorien eingeteilt. In dieser Arbeit werden erste, deskriptive Ergebnisse zu ausgewählten Laborparametern vorgestellt, die beispielhaft für diese fünf Kategorien stehen. Um die bevölkerungsmedizinische Bedeutung der Messergebnisse beurteilen zu können und gegebenenfalls auch versorgungsrelevante, normative Referenzbereiche daraus abzuleiten, sind weitergehende Analysen notwendig. Diese werden sich zunächst auf Querschnittsanalysen der Zusammenhänge zwischen Laborparametern und anderen gesundheitsrelevanten, anthropometrischen und soziodemografischen Variablen konzentrieren. Mittel- und längerfristiges Ziel ist die Ableitung multidimensionaler Referenzbereiche unter gleichzeitiger Berücksichtigung mehrerer Laborparameter und zusätzlicher klinischer Informationen sowie die Überprüfung der prognostischen Validität von Referenzbereichen und Schwellenwerten für ausgewählte Laborparameter anhand der medizinischen Ergebnisse bei Weiterbeobachtung der Studienteilnehmer.
Labordiagnostische Beurteilung der Nierenfunktion im Alter / Laboratory evaluation of kidney function in the elderly
Authors: Holdt Birgit , Schuff-Werner Peter
Published: March 2008

Mit der Verschiebung in der Alterszusammensetzung und der steigenden Anzahl älterer Menschen in der Bevölkerung rücken morphologische und funktionelle Veränderungen während des renalen Alterungsprozesses zunehmend in das Interesse der Laboratoriumsmedizin. Diese minimieren die Nierenfunktionsreserve und die Kompensationsfähigkeit und bedingen die Abnahme der Nierenfunktion. Nierenschäden und -erkrankungen müssen nach Möglichkeit zuverlässig von lediglich abnehmender Nierenfunktion unterschieden werden, um zur Früherkennung und Progressionsverzögerung von Nierenerkrankungen beizutragen.

Die glomeruläre Filtrationsrate (GFR) ist der empfohlene Laborparameter zur Charakterisierung der glomerulären Nierenfunktion und auf dessen Grundlage erfolgt die Stadieneinteilung chronischer Nierenerkrankungen. Im Mittelpunkt gegenwärtiger Diskussionen stehen aus Kosten- und Zeitgründen Näherungsformeln der endogenen Substanzen Kreatinin und Cystatin C. Leider wurden diese GFR-Näherungsgleichungen ohne Datensätze älterer Populationen entwickelt. Weiterhin ist der Referenzbereich für eine normale Nierenfunktion im Alter >70 Jahre nicht validiert. Studien zeigen, dass die Abweichungen der entwickelten Näherungsformeln in den verschiedenen Alters- und Krankheitsgruppen unterschiedlich sind. Eine universell anwendbare GFR-Näherungsformel ist nicht verfügbar. Spezifisch für ältere Patienten validierte Methoden zur Erfassung der glomerulären wie auch tubulären Nierenfunktion stehen nicht zur Verfügung. Folglich ist man bis zur Entwicklung exakterer Näherungsformeln oder neuer Biomarker auf vorhandene Näherungsformeln und zusätzliche Laborparametern angewiesen. Diese sollten entsprechend neuer Erkenntnisse für die Alters-, Krankheits- bzw. Therapiegruppe eingesetzt werden, für welche die geringsten Abweichungen zum Goldstandard (exogene Clearance) nachgewiesen wurden. Die konsequente Einführung von standardisierten Methoden und Kalibratoren führt weiter zu einer genaueren Schätzung der Nierenfunktion.

Besonders schwierig ist die Situation der Erstbewertung einer alternden Niere, da mit den bestehenden Methoden derzeit Daten entstehen, die variabel fehlerhaft sind und die Situation über- bzw. unterschätzen können. Verlaufsuntersuchungen sind in diesen Situationen dringend angezeigt, um Veränderungen der Nierenfunktion zuverlässig zu erfassen.

Ziel aktueller und zukünftiger Bestrebungen sollte sein, die Nierenfunktion beim alten Probanden bzw. Patienten unter Berücksichtigung funktioneller Reserven und Einschränkungen und individuell zu erfassen.
Age-Related Regional Network of Magnetic Resonance Imaging Gray Matter in the Rhesus Macaque
Authors: Alexander Gene E. , Chen Kewei , Aschenbrenner Melaney , Merkley Tricia L. , Santerre-Lemmon Laura E. , Shamy Jul Lea , Skaggs William E. , Buonocore Michael H. , Rapp Peter R. , Barnes Carol A.
Published: March 2008

Human structural neuroimaging studies have supported the preferential effects of healthy aging on frontal cortex, but reductions in other brain regions have also been observed. We investigated the regional network pattern of gray matter using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in young adult and old rhesus macaques (RMs) to evaluate age effects throughout the brain in a nonhuman primate model of healthy aging in which the full complement of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology does not occur. Volumetric T1 MRI scans were spatially normalized and segmented for gray matter using statistical parametric mapping (SPM2) voxel-based morphometry. Multivariate network analysis using the scaled subprofile model identified a linear combination of two gray matter patterns that distinguished the young from old RMs. The combined pattern included reductions in bilateral dorsolateral and ventrolateral prefrontal and orbitofrontal and superior temporal sulcal regions with areas of relative preservation in vicinities of the cerebellum, globus pallidus, visual cortex, and parietal cortex in old compared with young RMs. Higher expression of this age-related gray matter pattern was associated with poorer performance in working memory. In the RM model of healthy aging, the major regionally distributed effects of advanced age on the brain involve reductions in prefrontal regions and in the vicinity of the superior temporal sulcus. The age-related differences in gray matter reflect the effects of healthy aging that cannot be attributed to AD pathology, providing support for the targeted effects of aging on the integrity of frontal lobe regions and selective temporal lobe areas and their associated cognitive functions.
Golgi Cell Dendrites Are Restricted by Purkinje Cell Stripe Boundaries in the Adult Mouse Cerebellar Cortex
Authors: Sillitoe Roy V. , Chung Seung-Hyuk , Fritschy Jean-Marc , Hoy Monica , Hawkes Richard
Published: March 2008

Despite the general uniformity in cellular composition of the adult cerebellar cortex, there is a complex underlying pattern of parasagittal stripes of Purkinje cells with characteristic molecular phenotypes and patterns of connectivity. It is not known whether interneuron processes are restricted at stripe boundaries. To begin to address the issue, three strategies were used to explore how cerebellar Golgi cell dendrites are organized with respect to parasagittal stripes: first, double immunofluorescence staining combining anti-neurogranin to identify Golgi cell dendrites with the Purkinje cell compartmentation antigens zebrin II/aldolase C, HNK-1, and phospholipase Cβ4; second, zebrin II immunohistochemistry combined with a rapid Golgi–Cox impregnation procedure to reveal Golgi cell dendritic arbors; third, stripe antigen expression was used on sections of a GlyT2-EGFP transgenic mouse in which reporter expression is prominent in Golgi cell dendrites. In each case, the dendritic projections of Golgi cells were studied in the vicinity of Purkinje cell stripe boundaries. The data presented here show that the dendrites of a cerebellar interneuron, the Golgi cell, respect the fundamental cerebellar stripe cytoarchitecture.
Neuropathic Pain-Like Behavior after Brachial Plexus Avulsion in Mice: The Relevance of Kinin B1and B2Receptors
Authors: Quintão Nara L. M. , Passos Giselle F. , Medeiros Rodrigo , Paszcuk Ana F. , Motta Fabiana L. , Pesquero João B. , Campos Maria M. , Calixto João B.
Published: March 2008

The relevance of kinin B1(B1R) and B2(B2R) receptors in the brachial plexus avulsion (BPA) model was evaluated in mice, by means of genetic and pharmacological tools. BPA-induced hypernociception was absent in B1R, but not in B2R, knock-out mice. Local or intraperitoneal administration of the B2R antagonist Hoe 140 failed to affect BPA-induced mechanical hypernociception. Interestingly, local or intraperitoneal treatment with B1R antagonists, R-715 or SSR240612, dosed at the time of surgery, significantly reduced BPA-evoked mechanical hypernociception. Intrathecal or intracerebroventricular administration of these antagonists, at the surgery moment, did not prevent the hypernociception. Both antagonists, dosed by intraperitoneal or intrathecal routes (but not intracerebroventricularly) 4 d after the surgery, significantly inhibited the mechanical hypernociception. At 30 d after the BPA, only the intracerebroventricular treatment effectively reduced the hypernociception. A marked increase in B1R mRNA was observed in the hypothalamus, hippocampus, thalamus, and cortex at 4 d after BPA and only in the hypothalamus and cortex at 30 d. In the spinal cord, a slight increase in B1R mRNA expression was observed as early as at 2 d. Finally, an enhancement of B1R protein expression was found in all the analyzed brain structures at 4 and 30 d after the BPA, whereas in the spinal cord, this parameter was augmented only at 4 d. The data provide new evidence on the role of peripheral and central kinin B1R in the BPA model of neuropathic pain. Selective B1R antagonists might well represent valuable tools for the management of neuropathic pain.
P2Y12Receptor Upregulation in Activated Microglia Is a Gateway of p38 Signaling and Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Kobayashi Kimiko , Yamanaka Hiroki , Fukuoka Tetsuo , Dai Yi , Obata Koichi , Noguchi Koichi
Published: March 2008

Microglia in the spinal cord may play an important role in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain. A metabotropic ATP receptor, P2Y12, has been shown to be expressed in spinal microglia constitutively and be involved in chemotaxis. Activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) occurs in spinal microglia after nerve injury and may be related to the production of cytokines and other mediators, resulting in neuropathic pain. However, it remains unknown whether any type of P2Y receptor in microglia is involved in the activation of p38 MAPK and the pain behaviors after nerve injury.

Using the partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL) model in the rat, we found that P2Y12mRNA and protein increased in the spinal cord and peaked at 3 d after PSNL. Double labeling studies revealed that cells expressing increased P2Y12mRNA and protein after nerve injury were exclusively microglia. Both pharmacological blockades by intrathecal administration of P2Y12antagonist and antisense knockdown of P2Y12expression suppressed the development of pain behaviors and the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK in spinal microglia after PSNL. The intrathecal infusion of the P2Y12agonist 2-(methythio) adenosine 5′-diphosphate trisodium salt into naive rats mimicked the nerve injury-induced activation of p38 in microglia and elevated pain behaviors.

These data suggest a new mechanism of neuropathic pain, in which the increased P2Y12works as a gateway of the following events in microglia after nerve injury. Activation of this receptor by released ATP or the hydrolyzed products activate p38 MAPK pathway and may play a crucial role in the generation of neuropathic pain.
Serotonin 5-HT2BReceptors Are Required for 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine-Induced Hyperlocomotion and 5-HT ReleaseIn VivoandIn Vitro
Authors: Doly Stéphane , Valjent Emmanuel , Setola Vincent , Callebert Jacques , Hervé Denis , Launay Jean-Marie , Maroteaux Luc
Published: March 2008

The “club drug” 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA; also known as ecstasy) binds preferentially to and reverses the activity of the serotonin transporter, causing release of serotonin [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] stores from nerve terminals. Subsequent activation of postsynaptic 5-HT receptors by released 5-HT has been shown to be critical for the unique psychostimulatory effects of MDMA. In contrast, the effects of direct activation of presynaptic and/or postsynaptic receptors by MDMA have received far less attention, despite the agonist actions of the drug itself at 5-HT2receptors, in particular the 5-HT2Breceptor. Here we show that acute pharmacological inhibition or genetic ablation of the 5-HT2Breceptor in mice completely abolishes MDMA-induced hyperlocomotion and 5-HT release in nucleus accumbens and ventral tegmental area. Furthermore, the 5-HT2Breceptor dependence of MDMA-stimulated release of endogenous 5-HT from superfused midbrain synaptosomes suggests that 5-HT2Breceptors act, unlike any other 5-HT receptor, presynaptically to affect MDMA-stimulated 5-HT release. Thus, our findings reveal a novel regulatory component in the actions of MDMA and represent the first demonstration that 5-HT2Breceptors play an important role in the brain, i.e., modulation of 5-HT release. As such, 5-HT2Breceptor antagonists may serve as promising therapeutic drugs for MDMA abuse.
Vegetation and hydrology changes in Eastern Amazonia inferred from a pollen record
Authors: Toledo Mauro B. de , Bush Mark B.
Published: March 2008

Pollen, charcoal, and C14 analyses were performed on a sediment core obtained from Lake Tapera (Amapá) to provide the palaeoenvironmental history of this part of Amazonia. A multivariate analysis technique, Detrended Correspondence Analysis, was applied to the pollen data to improve visualization of sample distribution and similarity. A sedimentary hiatus lasting 5,500 years was identified in the Lake Tapera. Because the timing of the hiatus overlapped with the highest Holocene sea-level, which would have increased the local water table preventing the lake from drying out, it is clear that sea-level was not important in maintaining the lake level. Lake Tapera probably depended on riverine flood waters, and the sedimentary gap was caused by reduced Amazon River discharge, due to an extremely dry period in the Andes (8,000-5,000 years BP), when precipitation levels markedly decreased. The lack of Andean pollen (river transported) in the record after this event supports this interpretation. The pollen analysis shows that when sedimentation resumed in 1,620 cal. years BP, the vegetation around the lake was changed from forest into savanna. This record demonstrates the need to improve our understanding of climate changes and their associated impacts on vegetation dynamics.
Triiodothyronine (T3) does not induce Rankl expression in rat Ros 17/2.8 cells
Authors: Saraiva Patrícia P. , Teixeira Silvania S. , Nogueira Célia Regina , Padovani Carlos Roberto
Published: March 2008

Osteoclastogenesis may be regulated via activation of the RANK/RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B/ receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand) system, which is mediated by osteoblasts. However, the bone loss mechanism induced by T3 (triiodothyronine) is still controversial. In this study, osteoblastic lineage rat cells (ROS 17/2.8) were treated with T3 (10-8 M, 10-9 M, and 10-10 M), and RANKL mRNA (messenger RNA) expression was measured by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Our results show that T3 concentrations used did not significantly enhance RANKL expression compared to controls without hormone treatment. This data suggests that other mechanisms, unrelated to the RANK/RANKL system, might be to activate osteoclast differentiation in these cells.
Neurofibroma de tireóide em uma paciente com neurofibromatose tipo 1
Authors: Severo Mateus Dornelles , Rosa Verônica Denardin da , De Carli Diego Michelon , Beck Maristela de Oliveira , Danbermam Melissa Falster
Published: March 2008

A neurofibromatose tipo 1 (NF1), também conhecida como doença de von Recklinghausen, é uma doença autossômica dominante com alto grau de variabilidade da expressão clínica, comumente envolvida na formação de tumorações na maioria das vezes de origem benigna, localizadas principalmente na região da cabeça e do pescoço, sendo a tireóide acometida raramente. Porém existe na literatura a associação com carcinoma medular da tireóide (CMT), necessitando sempre sua exclusão. Relatamos o caso de uma paciente com NF1, com um nódulo de tireóide não-funcionante e sintomas obstrutivos. Foi realizada ressecção cirúrgica da lesão, com achados histopatológicos compatíveis com neurofibroma em tecido tireoidiano. A importância desse caso deve-se não só à raridade dessa apresentação da NF1, mas também à possibilidade de associação desta com CMT, tumor agressivo com possibilidade de cura pela ressecção cirúrgica.
Total agenesis of the corpus callosum in a patient with childhood-onset schizophrenia
Authors: Hallak Jaime Eduardo Cecilio , Crippa José Alexandre de Sousa , Pinto Joel Porfírio , Sousa João Paulo Machado de , Trzesniak Clarissa , Dursun Serdar Murat , McGuire Phillip , Deakin John Francis William , Zuardi Antonio Waldo
Published: March 2008

The hypothesis that schizophrenia involves aberrant inter-hemispheric communication has a long pedigree, however its precise role remains unclear. We therefore report the case of a total agenesis of the corpus callosum in a 21-year-old man with childhood-onset schizophrenia. The presence of schizophrenia with very early onset on absence of corpus callosum offers an opportunity to examine neurodevelopmental model and theories regarding to interhemispheric communication in the pathogenesis of psychosis.
Juvenile myoclonic epilepsy
Authors: Alfradique Isabel , Vasconcelos Marcio Moacyr
Published: March 2008

Juvenile myoclonus epilepsy (JME) is a common epileptic syndrome, the etiology of which is genetically determined. Its onset occurs from 6 through 22 years of age, and affected patients present with myoclonic jerks, often associated with generalized tonic-clonic seizures - the most common association - and absence seizures. JME is non-progressive, and there are no abnormalities on clinical examination or intellectual deficits. Psychiatric disorders may coexist. Generalized polyspike-and-waves are the most characteristic electroencephalographic pattern. Usual neuroimaging studies show no abnormalities. Atypical presentations should be entertained, as they are likely to induce misdiagnosis. Prevention of precipitating factors and therapy with valproic acid (VPA) are able to control seizures in the great majority of patients. Whenever VPA is judged to be inappropriate, other antiepileptic drugs such as lamotrigine may be considered. Treatment should not be withdrawn, otherwise recurrences are frequent.
Correlação entre os achados clínicos e imaginológicos nas disfunções temporomandibulares
Authors: Cozzolino Fábio Augusto , Rapoport Abrão , Franzi Sérgio Altino , Souza Ricardo Pires de , Pereira Clemente Augusto de Brito , Dedivitis Rogério Aparecido
Published: March 2008

OBJETIVO: Verificar a relação entre sinais e sintomas observados no exame clínico de pacientes com diagnóstico de disfunção temporomandibular, conforme os resultados fornecidos pelo exame de ressonância magnética. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Trinta pacientes que apresentavam sinais e sintomas de disfunção temporomandibular foram submetidos a exame clínico e de ressonância magnética. Cada exame de ressonância magnética de articulação temporomandibular foi interpretado, independentemente, por dois radiologistas experientes. Os exames de ressonância magnética foram realizados com 12 cortes de 3 mm de espessura, em orientação coronal (T1) em posição de boca fechada, cortes sagitais em posição de boca aberta e fechada (T1 e T2) e em abertura e fechamento progressivos, com intervalo de 5 mm, para reproduzir toda a extensão do movimento mandibular. A significância estatística entre a análise clínica dos pacientes com disfunção temporomandibular e os resultados obtidos no exame de ressonância magnética foi avaliada pelo teste kappa. RESULTADOS: Obteve-se, na análise interobservadores de imagens, concordância bruta do lado esquerdo e direito, respectivamente, de 56,7% (kappa = 0,1) e 56,7 (kappa = 0). CONCLUSÃO: Não foi encontrada correlação entre o diagnóstico clínico da luxação discal e imagens de ressonância magnética.
Efeitos de baixas doses de radiação-X no desenvolvimento do sistema nervoso central: estudo experimental em ratos
Authors: Lins Liliane , Gomes Laís , Gomes Lis , Trindade Marcele , Dias Leonardo , Bragança Ricardo , Pimentel Rodrigo
Published: March 2008

OBJETIVO: Este trabalho analisa as conseqüências da irradiação-X no desenvolvimento do sistema nervoso de fetos de ratos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: O trabalho foi constituído de 10 Rattus norvegicus albinos, Wistar, fêmeas, grávidas, com idade de oito semanas. Cinco ratas fêmeas constituíram o grupo controle e outras cinco tiveram suas regiões abdominais expostas por 30 segundos a uma dose de 0,3 Gy proveniente de um aparelho odontológico Gnatus de 70 kV e 10 mA. No 17º dia gestacional, ambos os grupos foram submetidos a histerectomia. As seções selecionadas foram examinadas para análise cerebral comparativa entre os grupos. RESULTADOS: O exame clínico revelou não haver diferenças morfológicas entre os grupos controle e experimental e nenhum dos animais apresentou anormalidades grosseiras. Vinte e sete por cento dos animais do grupo experimental apresentaram hemorragia cerebral moderada e 73% apresentaram hemorragia severa e danos no tecido nervoso. Nenhum animal do grupo controle apresentou hemorragia cerebral ou danificações de tecido nervoso. CONCLUSÃO: Estas evidências demonstram que pequenas doses de radiação-X podem causar hemorragias cerebrais e, conseqüentemente, lesão tecidual nervosa.
O pôster em encontros científicos
Authors: Lorenzoni Paulo José , Souza Raquel Canzi Almada de , Kohara Suely Keiko , França João César Beenke , Rodrigues Giovanna Assis , Carvalho José Gastão Rocha de
Published: March 2008

A sessão de pôster é a forma mais comum de apresentação de trabalhos e pesquisas em encontros científicos médicos, e, apesar disso, são escassas as informações sobre este tema na literatura médica. Desde o planejamento, é importante traçar prazos realistas, seguir as instruções fornecidas pelos organizadores do evento e se preparar de acordo com a audiência. O pôster contém um cabeçalho e o texto, que inclui: resumo, introdução, material e métodos, discussão, conclusões e referências. O estilo e o tamanho das fontes devem possibilitar a leitura a uma distância de 1 a 2 metros. Em algumas situações, figuras, gráficos e tabelas no pôster podem apresentar certas informações mais claramente e em menor espaço do que se descritas sob a forma de texto. Bom planejamento e treinamento diminuem eventuais dificuldades na apresentação do pôster. Este trabalho revisa o assunto, trazendo informações objetivas sobre este método.
Levantamento florístico do estrato lenhoso das áreas mineradas no Distrito Federal
Authors: Corrêa Rodrigo Studart , Mélo Filho Benício de
Published: March 2008

Cerca 0,6% da área do Distrito Federal - DF encontra-se degradada pela mineração. Com o objetivo de identificar espécies que possam ser utilizadas em projetos de revegetação, a composição florística do estrato lenhoso das jazidas abandonadas à sucessão foi inventariada. Foram encontradas nesses locais 78 espécies nativas do Cerrado e 14 exóticas. Porém, apenas oito espécies nativas apresentaram freqüência > 50% nos locais minerados. Outras 18 espécies nativas apresentaram freqüências entre 25 e 50%, e as demais 74% das espécies encontradas registraram presença acidental nesses locais (freqüência < 25%). As árvores representam 65% das espécies nativas encontradas, e as pioneiras contribuem com mais de 70% da riqueza de espécies. Com base nos valores de freqüência e abundância, as oito espécies constantes (freqüência >50%) e as 18 acessórias (freqüência entre 25% - 50%), que juntas totalizam 78,9% da abundância do estrato lenhoso, são recomendadas para projetos de recuperação de áreas mineradas no Cerrado.
Políticas de saúde e crise do Estado de Bem-Estar: repercussões e possibilidades para o Sistema Único de Saúde
Authors: Pires Maria Raquel Gomes Maia , Demo Pedro
Published: March 2008

A institucionalização do Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), orientada por princípios universalistas e solidários, pode ser vislumbrada sob a influência das tensões entre mercado e cidadania no contexto de redemocratização que o país viveu, ambientado nas lutas políticas que balançaram o país na elaboração da Constituição de 1988, na crise econômica que caracterizou a década perdida e no arrefecimento do Estado desenvolvimentista. Trata-se de um estudo teórico, que parte da premissa que o cenário econômico mundial transnacionalizado, com a conseqüente exigência de flexibilização das garantias sociais que o capital financeiro vem impondo aos Estados de bem-estar, traz repercussões estruturais para países em desenvolvimento ou periféricos, como o Brasil, pondo em risco a implementação dos princípios e diretrizes do SUS. Objetiva-se: a- Analisar a conformação das políticas sociais no capitalismo e o delineamento da crise do Estado de Bem-Estar social; b- Contextualizar as políticas de saúde do Brasil nas atuais transformações do capitalismo e redefinição do papel do Estado, analisando as repercussões para a implementação do SUS; e c- Apontar possibilidades para o enfrentamento da implementação do SUS no contexto em foco por meio da politicidade do cuidado - gestão da ajuda-poder para a (re)construção da autonomia de sujeitos. Diante das ambigüidades de um sistema de saúde que se pretende equânime, numa conjuntura ditada pela mercantilização do direito à saúde, aposta-se em propostas e experiências de enfrentamento que fortaleçam o controle democrático da sociedade civil sobre a implementação das políticas públicas.
Comportamento dos custos: uma investigação empírica acerda dos conceitos econométricos sobre a teoria tradicional da contabilidade de custos
Authors: Silva Felipe Dantas Cassimiro Da , Silva Alexandre César Batista Da , Vasconcelos Marco Túlio De Castro , Campelo Sebastião Marco
Published: March 2008

A investigação, em tela, versa sobre a inconsistência dada pela literatura Contábil em termos de estimação do comportamento dos custos. Portanto, o objetivo central deste trabalho é identificar se teoria da Análise Estatística do Comportamento dos Custos, defendida pela literatura contábil, está ferindo os conceitos modernos da Econometria utilizados em finanças, em termos de identificação e correção da não estacionariedade das séries temporais. Para tanto, adotou-se um procedimento metodológico dedutivo através de pesquisa indireta. Para reforçar os conceitos e análises feitas no desenvolvimento da pesquisa utilizaram-se dados de estudo de caso que foram rodados no software Econométrico E-views. Por fim, conclui-se que a teoria empregada na literatura contábil concernente à utilização de técnicas estatísticas em comportamento dos custos não considera a análise da estacionariedade das séries e que, portanto, gera inconsistências estatísticas (regressões espúrias) na previsão do referido comportamento. Com isso, o estudo posiciona-se de forma relevante à evolução da ciência no momento em que enseja uma discussão maior em uma área ainda incipiente das Ciências Contábeis, a Contabilometria.
Diagnóstico da pesquisa em ecologia de paisagens no Brasil (2000-2005)
Authors: Pivello Vânia Regina , Metzger Jean Paul
Published: March 2008

A Ecologia de Paisagens busca entender a influência da heterogeneidade espacial do meio em processos ecológicos, enfatizando as ações do homem sobre o meio, ou o contexto espacial sobre as populações. É uma ciência recente, que ainda está solidificando conceitos, mas que se utiliza fortemente dos avanços tecnológicos em sensoriamento remoto e sistemas de informação geográfica. Com o objetivo de verificar os principais temas, abordagens metodológicas e técnicas de análise que estão sendo seguidas em Ecologia de Paisagens no Brasil, bem como as instituições de pesquisa envolvidas, fizemos um levantamento analisando os resumos de trabalhos científicos em Ecologia de Paisagens apresentados nas principais reuniões científicas nacionais que abordaram esse assunto, realizadas entre 2000 e 2005, e também analisamos os resumos das dissertações e teses produzidas entre 2000 e 2004. Os resumos foram classificados conforme a temática (7 temas), abordagem metodológica (7 abordagens) e técnicas de análise utilizadas (5 técnicas). Dos 226 resumos de congressos e 222 dissertações e teses analisados, a maioria tratou da descrição de padrões espaciais, da relação entre padrões e processos e de planejamento ambiental. Predominou a abordagem observacional-descritiva e o uso de técnicas qualitativas ou quantificações simples (medições e porcentagens). Menos de 20% dos estudos utilizaram técnicas quantitativas, numa abordagem observacional-experimental, contudo, houve uma tendência crescente ao emprego de abordagens quantitativas. Foi notada uma baixa correspondência entre as instituições de pesquisa onde as dissertações e teses foram produzidas, as instituições representadas nos congressos e aquelas catalogadas nos grupos de pesquisa do CNPq. Constatamos também que a participação brasileira na produção científica mundial em Ecologia de Paisagens ainda é muito pequena, provavelmente devido ao caráter predominantemente descritivo das pesquisas atuais. Acreditamos que o crescimento da pesquisa brasileira em Ecologia de Paisagens deve ir além da descrição de padrões, estabelecendo claras hipóteses científicas, testadas de forma quantitativa.
Florística do estrato herbáceo-subarbustivo de um campo limpo úmido em Brasília, Brasil
Authors: Munhoz Cássia Beatriz Rodrigues , Felfili Jeanine Maria
Published: March 2008

A riqueza florística do estrato herbáceo-arbustivo de campo limpo úmido, uma vegetação campestre do bioma Cerrado, é pouco conhecida, embora as ervas e subarbustos sejam o maior componente na vegetação de Cerrado. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo caracterizar a riqueza florística da camada herbáceo-subarbustiva de um campo limpo úmido, com aproximadamente 16 ha, localizado na Fazenda Água Limpa (FAL), Brasília, DF (15° 56' a 15° 59' S e 47° 55' a 47° 58' W), além de comparar a sua flora herbáceo-arbustiva com a de outras áreas do bioma Cerrado no Brasil central e sudeste. Material botânico fértil foi coletado quinzenalmente, de setembro de 1999 a fevereiro de 2001, ao longo de trilhas distribuídas de modo a percorrer a maior extensão da área possível. Foram registradas 197 espécies, distribuídas em 105 gêneros e 41 famílias, tendo sido provavelmente descoberta uma nova espécie de Syngonanthus (Eriocaulaceae). As oito famílias com o maior número de espécie foram Poaceae (39 espécies); Cyperaceae (24); Asteraceae (21); Polygalaceae (15); Eriocaulaceae (12); Xyridaceae e Melastomataceae (8) e Fabaceae (7). A similaridade florística, medida com índice de Sørensen, entre o campo limpo úmido estudado e as outras 12 áreas de Cerrado foram baixas variando de 3,3% a 37,4%. As baixas similaridades entre as áreas comparadas podem estar relacionadas com as diferenças de saturação hídrica do solo ou diferenças no tamanho das áreas de Cerrado remanescentes. A ordenação separou claramente as áreas úmidas das áreas secas e sugere que a distância geográfica entre as mesmas também pode ter influenciado a heterogeneidade florística no componente herbáceo-subarbustivo.
Feasibility Study and Pilot Test of Polymer Flooding in Third Class Reservoir of Daqing Oilfield
Authors: Pu Hui , Yin Daiyin , Chen Yizhe , Yang Fulin
Published: March 2008

This paper introduces laboratory and numerical simulation studies on selection of polymer injection parameters and project design optimization in a Third Class (Class III) reservoir of Daqing oilfield--the effective permeability is less than 100 md and the effective thickness is smaller than 1 m. Because of these physical properties, multiple producing layers, low permeability and highly dispersed residual oil, the recovery factor of water flooding is low. The amount of incremental producible oil is not large enough to further drill infill wells economically, so polymer flooding was proposed and a pilot test of polymer flooding was conducted.

On the basis of the reservoir response to waterflooding, polymer flooding could substantially increase the amount of recoverable reserves. Results of numerical simulation show that the recovery factor using the technique of separate-layer injection with different molecular weight polymers is 8.60% higher than that of water flooding. Compared with common polymer flooding (polymer concentration 1,000 mg/L, viscosity 30 ~50 mPa·s), the incremental recovery efficiency of the technology is 3%. The polymer flooding technique of separate-layer injection with different molecular weight polymers will not only improve oil recovery, but is also more economic.

Based on the results of these studies, a pilot test was conducted in March 2007. By the end of September 2007, the pilot test achieved desirable results: the allocated injection rate can be achieved, the injection pressure increased, and the watercut is decreasing, which indicate that polymer flooding can get good results in a Third Class reservoir with low permeability formations and thin pay zones.
The Future Challenge of Horizontal Well Testing in a North African Field: An Overview of a Decade of Field Practice and Operation
Authors: Bachiri Salim , Dahroug Ahmed Mahmoud , Zheng S. Y.
Published: March 2008

Projected increases in Algerian hydrocarbon production will come, in part, from more complex reservoirs. In Algeria, conventional quality reservoirs (>1 md) are interbedded with volumetrically significant, low permeability sandstones (<1 md)–the ‘tight sand’. The challenge has been to develop a programme of work to establish reserves in this sub-millidarcy resource; on the whole, the results of this evaluation programme are positive.

The main tight sections in Hassi Messaoud are of Cambrian age. Grain-rimming chlorite cement within thin intervals locally inhibited later pervasive quartz cementation; the quartz is the cause of reservoir degradation in the bulk of the sandstone, with resulting permeabilities of <1 md, and often in the microdarcy range. Generally, the overlying Lower Devonian has a low density of faulting and fractures; open and closed fractures are observed in core, whilst mud losses suggest some fractures are conductive in the subsurface.

The permeability range in the tight sandstones extends below the resolution of conventional porosity/permeability measurement; determination has been improved through mercury-injection–derived permeabilities. Water saturations determined from core and logs suggest gas and oil may be present in the low-permeability rock. The presence of gas could not be confirmed by formation tester samples; thus, dynamic data is required from wells that were completed within the tight sandstone interval. The low leak-off coefficient suggests there is no connection to pervasive conductive fracture networks, although fractures intersected by the wellbores may contribute to flow. Also, large poro-elastic back stresses indicate that connections to high matrix or fracture permeability are unlikely. On balance, well-test analysis is a reliable indicator of hydrocarbon presence in very low permeability/porosity rocks that may recharge associated conventional layers following sufficient drawdown.
Successful Primary Cementing of High-Pressure Saltwater Kick Zones
Authors: Marinez Ricardo , El Shabrawy Mohamed , Sanad Osama , Waheed Arshad
Published: March 2008

This Gulf of Suez case history presents an account of a successful primary cementing across a massive salt zone bearing a high-pressure salt water kick; this achievement had been elusive for many years. The challenge in cementing this salt zone was that the onset of the high-pressure kick zone(s) was not predictable because thin sections of anhydrites and sand streaks were lodged within the 600-m salt zone. The hole section was normally drilled with a salt-saturated mud, weighing 1.85 to 1.98 sg (specific gravity), making every effort to keep the well overbalanced. Over 20 wells had been drilled this way and practically all had either a kick while drilling the well or the well flowed while running casing, or flow occurred while waiting-on-cement (WOC). Not only did it pose a safety hazard and compromise drilling operations, but led to several days of nonproductive rig time spent in resolving the problem.

The solutions to the challenge were multi-faceted. Records of many previously drilled wells were reviewed and several improvements and suggestions made. The suggestions ranged from understanding the flow mechanism, the timing of flow, maintaining wellbore stability, providing a wellbore conducive to cementing, and cement slurry design and placement.

The lessons learned from this paper will help other locations drilling through salt sections worldwide that have similar situations of poor zonal isolation leading to sustained casing pressure, corroded casings, and in some cases collapsed pipe results in early termination of the productive life of the well.
Excess Infant Mortality after Nuclear Plant Startup in Rural Mississippi
Authors: Mangano Joseph J.
Published: March 2008

In the United States, utility companies have recently begun ordering new nuclear power reactors, the first such orders in the country since 1978. One potential site would be the Grand Gulf plant near Port Gibson, Mississippi. In 1983–1984, the first two years in which the existing Grand Gulf reactor operated, significant increases were observed in local rates of infant deaths (+35.3%) and fetal deaths (+57.8%). Local infant mortality remained elevated for the next two decades. These changes match those experienced in the same five local counties during atomic bomb testing in the 1950s and 1960s. This report examines potential reasons why an indigent, largely African American community may be at higher risk than other populations from exposure to an environmental toxin such as radiation. It also considers potential health risks posed by new reactors at Grand Gulf.
An assessment of contemporary glacier fluctuations in Nepal's Khumbu Himal using repeat photography
Authors: Byers Alton C
Published: March 2008

A preliminary study of glacial fluctuations in Sagarmatha (Mt Everest) National Park, Nepal was undertaken in Oct–Nov 2007 using repeat photography. Photographs from scientific and cartographic expeditions to the upper Imja Khola region ca. 1950 were replicated in order to derive a better, empirically-based understanding of what changes had occurred in the region’s glaciers during the past half century. Over 40 distinct panoramas were replicated which demonstrated the (a) complete loss of certain small (< 0.5 km2), clean glaciers (C-Type) between approximately 5400–5500 masl, (b) the retreat of larger (>0.5 km2) clean glaciers by as much as 50 percent of the ca. 1955 volumes at elevations ranging from approximately 5500–5600 masl, (c) the formation of new and potentially dangerous glacial lakes that had been debris covered glaciers (D-Type) in the 1950s, and (d) the ablation of most of the D-Type glaciers re-photographed. The findings support and complement those of recent investigations based almost entirely on remote sensing and computer modelling. However, detailed, on-the-ground field studies of potential climate change impacts on the people and environments of the Mt. Everest region are disturbingly absent. I suggest that only by systematically combining field and laboratory-based investigations will we acquire the tools to enable us to identify the real threats, non-threats, and ways in which local people can adapt and reduce vulnerabilities to climate change.

Himalayan Journal of Sciences Vol.4(6) 2007 p.21-26