bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systems approach defining constraints of the genome architecture on lineage selection and evolvability during somatic cancer evolution
Authors: Rübben Albert , Nordhoff Ole
Published: November 2012

Most clinically distinguishable malignant tumors are characterized by specific mutations, specific patterns of chromosomal rearrangements and a predominant mechanism of genetic instability but it remains unsolved whether modifications of cancer genomes can be explained solely by mutations and selection through the cancer microenvironment.

It has been suggested that internal dynamics of genomic modifications as opposed to the external evolutionary forces have a significant and complex impact on Darwinian species evolution. A similar situation can be expected for somatic cancer evolution as molecular key mechanisms encountered in species evolution also constitute prevalent mutation mechanisms in human cancers. This assumption is developed into a systems approach of carcinogenesis which focuses on possible inner constraints of the genome architecture on lineage selection during somatic cancer evolution. The proposed systems approach can be considered an analogy to the concept of evolvability in species evolution.

The principal hypothesis is that permissive or restrictive effects of the genome architecture on lineage selection during somatic cancer evolution exist and have a measurable impact. The systems approach postulates three classes of lineage selection effects of the genome architecture on somatic cancer evolution: i) effects mediated by changes of fitness of cells of cancer lineage, ii) effects mediated by changes of mutation probabilities and iii) effects mediated by changes of gene designation and physical and functional genome redundancy. Physical genome redundancy is the copy number of identical genetic sequences. Functional genome redundancy of a gene or a regulatory element is defined as the number of different genetic elements, regardless of copy number, coding for the same specific biological function within a cancer cell. Complex interactions of the genome architecture on lineage selection may be expected when modifications of the genome architecture have multiple and possibly opposed effects which manifest themselves at disparate times and progression stages.

Dissection of putative mechanisms mediating constraints exerted by the genome architecture on somatic cancer evolution may provide an algorithm for understanding and predicting as well as modifying somatic cancer evolution in individual patients.
Effect of Charge of a Matrix Polymer on the Electronic States of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Hirana Yasuhiko , Niidome Yasuro , Nakashima Naotoshi
Published: November 2012

The determination of electronic states of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) has been a central issue in science and nanotechnology of carbon nanotubes. Previously, we reported the electronic states of (n,m)SWNTs that were embedded in an anionic polymer, carboxymethylcellulose sodium salt (CMC). It is important to reveal how the electronic properties of individual (n,m)SWNTs are affected by the surrounding microenvironment. In this study, we focused on the effect of charge of the SWNT solubilizers. We used a cationic polymer, hydroxyethylcellulose ethoxylate (quaternized) (HEQ) as the SWNT solubilizer in place of CMC, and the isolated (n,m)SWNTs were embedded in a film of HEQ (matrix polymer) on an electrode. We found that the charge of HEQ virtually does not affect the electronic parameters, i.e., oxidation/reduction potentials, Fermi levels, and band gaps of the (n,m)SWNTs, indicating that the presented electronic parameters are the parameters of the intrinsic (n,m)SWNTs.
Impact of prandial status on the comparison of capillary glucose meter and venous plasma glucose measurements in healthy volunteers
Authors: Swaminathan Akhilesh , Lunt Helen , Chang Winston S J , Logan Florence J , Frampton Christopher M A , Florkowski Christopher M
Published: November 2012

Background

There is a negative glucose gradient between the capillary and venous systems, produced by glucose uptake into peripheral tissues. This gradient is augmented by oral glucose ingestion in healthy volunteers; thus prandial status may impact on capillary glucose meter performance. Our primary aim was to investigate whether the (capillary-venous plasma) glucose difference changed in relation to prandial status, in healthy volunteers.

Methods

Glucose was measured fasting and also one hour after an ad libitum breakfast, in 103 healthy volunteers. Duplicate capillary (finger stick) measurements were undertaken at both time points, using both the FreeStyle Lite and AccuChek Performa meters. Simultaneous venous (antecubital fossa) samples were centrifuged immediately after collection and plasma glucose was measured using the laboratory hexokinase method. Results were compared by Bland-Altman difference analysis.

Results

The mean (95% CI) pre- and postprandial (capillary-plasma) glucose differences (mmol/L) were calculated for each meter. For the Freestyle Lite, the preprandial difference was 20.51 (20.58 to 20.45) and postprandial difference was 0.81 (0.69-0.94). Corresponding differences for the Performa were 20.13 (20.20 to 20.06) and 1.19 (1.07-1.31), respectively. T-test comparison of participants’ paired pre- and postprandial (capillary-plasma) glucose differences confirmed a significant meal-related change in glucose estimation for both meters (P < 0.0001). Also, both meters read highest at lower glucose concentrations.

Conclusions

In healthy volunteers, both glucose meters showed a systematic positive bias one hour after breakfast. The significance of this finding in diabetes remains to be determined.
( Re)calling ‘home’: An artist’s negotiation and (re)negotiation between memory, geography, history and language
Authors: Gaal-Holmes Patti
Published: November 2012

This article addresses the role of memory for the itinerant as repeated negotiations take place between geographical location and reminiscence. The meaning of ‘home’ is considered in relation to space/place and time as fragmentary transmutations periodically enable a sense
of momentary personal cohesion. As these are temporary transmutations, or states of cohesion/consolidation, the itinerant remains ever in a state of flux, continuing to shift and change as self-recognition occurs through accessing the store of memories and through articulating the past ‘home’
in relation to the current site of location or domicile. The writings of Breyten Breytenbach, Michael Jackson and Irit Rogoff, amongst others, will be used to investigate discussions on the meaning of ‘home’ and exile. The final part of the article will focus on three performance
works, Rituals for Momentary Cohesion (1998–2002), whereby a negotiated form of consolidation is sought through the action of the body within the interior space or landscape.
Migrant identities in film: Migrations from Mexico and Central America to the United States
Authors: Shaw Deborah
Published: November 2012

This article analyses filmic representations of migration from Mexico and Central America to the United States, with a focus on Sin nombre (Fukunaga, 2009). Reference will also be made to other films including, The Gatekeeper (Juan Carlos Frey, 2002), La tragedia de Macario (Veliz,
2005), La misma luna/Under the Same Moon (Patricia Riggen, 2007) and 7 soles (Ultreras, 2008). The article argues that these texts form a new sub-genre of migration films, and have secured their place in the market thanks to film festivals such as Sundance and the Latino festival at San Diego,
a growing Latino population in the United States, and their relevance to contemporary political debate within Central America, Mexico and the United States. There is very little published in this area, despite growing interest, so the aim of the research was to write an analytical survey piece.
One of the main concerns of the article is to consider what happens to the migrant experience when represented in feature films and to analyse ow the different (trans)national production contexts affect these representations: what happens to social and political concerns in the search for
commercial gain, and how is migrant experience made to conform to the demands of the United States film market? The article argues that there is a personal rather than overtly political focus in all films, and film-makers prefer to concentrate on immoral individuals and the emotional weight
of their subjects, rather than consider the effect of national and transnational policies on migrants. In the specific case of Sin Nombre the article explores the ways that the migrant film can be made accessible to global audiences, and asks what is lost through this process
Farm tourism and dilemmas of commercial activity in the home
Authors: Brandth Berit , Haugen Marit S.
Published: November 2012

This article aims to analyse the overlap between work and home in farm tourism.When farmers diversify their production into tourism using their homes as a commercial arena for hosting visitors, new challenges regarding boundaries between private and public, home and work arise. The
article shows how central aspects of hosting involve inherent dilemmas between the farm as a home and as a site of commercial activities. Moreover, it shows how the boundaries between work and home are managed in order to balance business and a sense of home. Such boundary work consists of
attempts at adjusting the product, marking rules and creating separate spaces for home and work, something that produces a more conditional hospitality. The analysis is based on studies of twenty family farms from various districts in Norway. Some of the farms combine tourism and farming while
others have altered their production to tourism only. The material includes formal interviews with sixteen women and nineteen men operating the businesses.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Kerry Matthew
Published: November 2012

DEMOCRACY, TRADE UNIONS AND POLITICAL VIOLENCE IN SPAIN. THE VALENCIAN ANARCHIST MOVEMENT, 1918–1936, RICHARD PURKISS (2011) Eastbourne, Portland and Ontario: Sussex Academic Press (in association with the Cañada Blanch Centre for Contemporary Spanish Studies), 320 pp.,
ISBN 978-1-84519-461-1 (hbk), £55
Globalization, regional television and national identity: The case of Vaya Semanita/What a Week
Authors: Larrea Carlota
Published: November 2012

This article looks at Vaya Semanita/What a Week, a sketch programme on Euskal Telebista 2 (ETB2), the Spanish-language channel of Basque Television, as a case study for illustrating the complex relationships between regional, national and global television cultures, and between local
television and its audiences. It will consider some reasons for the programme’s popularity through textual analysis (with particular attention to its representation of Basque national/cultural identity, and to how the sketch format is used for that purpose) and contextual study (the
programme’s location within its media environment and the socio-historical circumstances of its production, dissemination and consumption). The discussion will be situated within the debates regarding the principles of public service broadcasting and television globalization and within
the history of a public broadcasting institution with a mission to express and strengthen national identity. The show can be examined for the insights it offers into Basque national identity and its changes through time.
Interactive art in the suburbs: Art projects that increase involvement from the community
Authors: Hendahl Kicki , Aguirre Giovanna , Magnusson Evis
Published: November 2012

In this article we examine how interactive art can be integrated into city planning. A pleasant, safe and aesthetically pleasing environment, inspired by residents’ needs and desires, has been our objective. During the last seven years, the city of Örebro has cooperated with us, three artists, to develop community-based projects aimed at raising levels of involvement amongst residents. Residents have participated in creative workshops together with the artists in order to realize a better living environment for all concerned. We have worked in close cooperation with local authorities, businesses and associations. We have applied involvement culture to suburban settings, producing both temporary artworks and more permanent changes to peoples’ quality of life. Our findings constitute a growing source of knowledge to be used to foster democratic city planning well anchored in the community. Many of the residents who became involved in the art projects, that we carried out on behalf of the municipality of Örebro, had never been given the chance to influence city planning or the creation of an artwork. We were able to create spaces and places that were not only public in name but also in content.
Hanging out is hard to do: Methodology in non-avatar environments
Authors: Woodford Darryl
Published: November 2012

Ethnography is now a well-established research methodology for virtual environments,and the vast majority of accounts have one aspect in common, whether textual or graphic environments – that of the embodied avatar. In this article, I first discuss the applicability of such a methodology to non-avatar environments such as Eve Online, considering where the methodology works and the issues that arise in its implementation – particularly for the consideration of sub-communities within the virtual environment. Second, I consider what alternative means exist for getting at the information that is obtained through an ethnographic study of the virtual environment. To that end, I consider the practical and ethical implications of utilizing existing accounts, the importance of the meta-game discourse, including those sources outside of the control of the environment developer, and finally the utility in combining personal observations with accounts of other ethnographers, both within and between environments.
Hat die Philosophie noch eine Einheit?
Authors: Leist Anton
Published: November 2012

Today philosophy falls apart into a “theoretical” and a “practical” sub-discipline, a situation to the detriment of both. On the back of a sketch of three stages of Western philosophy a diagnosis is made as to the practical origin of the theoretical/practical split, which also already contains within it the clue for a therapy. Both parts of philosophy could be set on a convergent path by recognizing two practical conflicts underlying philosophical problems: the biographical conflict of accepting the world and the social conflict of accepting others. A non-reductivist study of these conflicts might mitigate the present alienation within philosophy.
Exploring Ovulation & Pregnancy Using Over-the-Counter Products: A Novel Guided Inquiry
Authors: Venditti Jennifer J. , Surmacz Cynthia A.
Published: November 2012

In this guided inquiry, students explore the complex hormonal regulation of the female reproductive cycle using inexpensive ovulation and pregnancy detection kits that are readily available over the counter. This hands-on activity engages students in the practice of doing science as highlighted by the National Science Education Standards. The laboratory approach described is an effective alternative or complement to traditional lecture presentations of this challenging topic. The laboratory activities described are appropriate for both college and high school students, as reproductive physiology is covered in a wide variety of curricula.
Anastrozole and celecoxib for endometriosis treatment, good to keep them apart?
Authors: Olivares Carla N , Bilotas Mariela A , Ricci Analía G , Barañao Rosa Inés , Meresman Gabriela F
Published: November 2012

Endometriosis is a benign gynecological disease. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and aromatase proteins have been shown to be overexpressed in eutopic endometrium from women suffering from this disease compared to disease-free women. Furthermore, inhibition of these molecules individually was demonstrated to have antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects both in vitro and in vivo in several models. In this study, the effect of combining celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, and anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, on the implantation and growth of endometriotic like lesions in a murine model of endometriosis was evaluated. Endometriosis was surgically induced in female BALB/c mice. After 28 days of treatment with celecoxib, anastrozole, or their combination, animals were killed and lesions were counted, measured, excised, and fixed. Immunohistochemistry for proliferating cell nuclear antigen and CD34 was performed for assessment of cell proliferation and vascularization. TUNEL technique was performed for apoptosis evaluation. Celecoxib was the only treatment to significantly reduce the number of lesions established per mouse, their size and vascularized area. In addition, cell proliferation was significantly diminished and apoptosis was significantly enhanced by both individual treatments. When the therapies were combined, they reversed their effects. These results confirm that celecoxib and anastrozole separately decrease endometriotic growth, but when combined they might have antagonizing effects.
Genetic Analysis of Vertebral Regionalization and Number in Medaka (Oryzias latipes) Inbred Lines
Authors: Kimura Tetsuaki , Shinya Minori , Naruse Kiyosi
Published: November 2012

Vertebral number is the most variable trait among vertebrates. In addition to the vertebral number, the ratio of abdominal to caudal vertebrae is a variable trait. The vertebral number and the ratio of abdominal to caudal vertebrae contribute to vertebrate diversity. It is very interesting to know how to determine the vertebral number and the ratio of abdominal to caudal vertebrae. In this study, we identify differences in the vertebral number and the ratio of abdominal vertebrae to vertebral number between two inbred lines of medaka, namely, Hd-rRII1 and Kaga. To identify the genetic factor of those differences, we performed quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis for vertebral number and the ratio of abdominal vertebrae to vertebral number using 200 F2 fish. Our results show a suggestive QTL of the ratio of abdominal vertebrae to vertebral number on chromosome 15, and five QTL of vertebral number on chromosomes 1, 10, 11, 17, and 23. The QTL on chromosome 15 contains hoxDb cluster genes. The QTL of vertebral number include some genes related to the segmentation clock and axial elongation. In addition, we show that the difference in vertebral number between two inbred lines is derived from differences in the anteroposterior length of somites. Our results emphasize that the developmental process should be considered in genetic analyses for vertebral number.
Gal4-based Enhancer-Trapping in the Malaria MosquitoAnopheles stephensi
Authors: O’Brochta David A , Pilitt Kristina L , Harrell Robert A , Aluvihare Channa , Alford Robert T
Published: November 2012

Transposon-based forward and reverse genetic technologies will contribute greatly to ongoing efforts to study mosquito functional genomics. A piggyBac transposon-based enhancer-trap system was developed that functions efficiently in the human malaria vector, Anopheles stephensi. The system consists of six transgenic lines of Anopheles stephensi, each with a single piggyBac-Gal4 element in a unique genomic location; six lines with a single piggyBac-UAStdTomato element; and two lines, each with a single Minos element containing the piggyBac-transposase gene under the regulatory control of the hsp70 promoter from Drosophila melanogaster. Enhancer detection depended upon the efficient remobilization of piggyBac-Gal4 transposons, which contain the yeast transcription factor gene Gal4 under the regulatory control of a basal promoter. Gal4 expression was detected through the expression of the fluorescent protein gene tdTomato under the regulatory control of a promoter with Gal4-binding UAS elements. From five genetic screens for larval- and adult-specific enhancers, 314 progeny were recovered from 24,250 total progeny (1.3%) with unique patterns of tdTomato expression arising from the influence of an enhancer. The frequency of piggyBac remobilization and enhancer detection was 2.5- to 3-fold higher in female germ lines compared with male germ lines. A small collection of enhancer-trap lines are described in which Gal4 expression occurred in adult female salivary glands, midgut, and fat body, either singly or in combination. These three tissues play critical roles during the infection of Anopheles stephensi by malaria-causing Plasmodium parasites. This system and the lines generated using it will be valuable resources to ongoing mosquito functional genomics efforts.
Prevalence of Overweight in Dutch Children With Down Syndrome
Authors: van Gameren-Oosterom Helma B.M. , van Dommelen Paula , Schönbeck Yvonne , Oudesluys-Murphy Anne Marie , van Wouwe Jacobus P. , Buitendijk Simone E.
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE:

Prevalence of overweight in children is increasing, causing various health problems. This study aims to establish growth references for weight and to assess the prevalence rates of overweight and obesity in a nationwide sample of Dutch children with Down syndrome (DS), taking into account the influence of comorbidity.

METHODS:

In 2009, longitudinal growth data from Dutch children with trisomy 21 who were born after 1982 were retrospectively collected from medical records of 25 Dutch regional specialized DS centers. “Healthy” was defined as not having concomitant disorders or having only a mild congenital heart defect. Weight and BMI references were calculated by using the LMS method, and prevalence rates of overweight and obesity by using cutoff values for BMI as defined by the International Obesity Task Force. Differences in prevalence rates were tested by multilevel logistic regression analyses to adjust for gender and age.

RESULTS:

Growth data of 1596 children with DS were analyzed. Compared with the general Dutch population, healthy children with DS were more often overweight (25.5% vs 13.3% in boys, and 32.0% vs 14.9% in girls) and obese (4.2% vs 1.8%, and 5.1% vs 2.2%, respectively). Prevalence rates of overweight between DS children with or without concomitant disorders did not vary significantly.

CONCLUSIONS:

Dutch children with DS have alarmingly high prevalence rates of overweight and obesity during childhood and adolescence. Health care professionals should be aware of the risk of overweight and obesity in children with DS to prevent complications.
Effectiveness of Protective Eyewear in Reducing Eye Injuries Among High School Field Hockey Players
Authors: Kriz Peter K. , Comstock R. Dawn , Zurakowski David , Almquist Jon L. , Collins Christy L. , d’Hemecourt Pierre A.
Published: November 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To determine if injury rates differ among high school field hockey players in states that mandated protective eyewear (MPE) versus states with no protective eyewear mandate (no MPE).

METHODS:

We analyzed field hockey exposure and injury data collected over the 2009–2010 and 2010–2011 scholastic seasons from national and regional databases.

RESULTS:

Incidence of all head and face injuries (including eye injuries, concussion) was significantly higher in no-MPE states compared with MPE states, 0.69 vs 0.47 injuries per 1000 athletic exposures (incidence rate ratio [IRR] 1.47; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04–2.15, P = .048). Players in the no-MPE group had a 5.33-fold higher risk of eye injury than players in the MPE group (IRR 5.33; 95% CI: 0.71–39.25, P = .104). There was no significant difference in concussion rates for the 2 groups (IRR 1.04; 95% CI: 0.63–1.75, P = .857). A larger percentage of injuries sustained by athletes in the no-MPE group required >10 days to return to activity (32%) compared with athletes in the MPE group (17%), but this difference did not reach statistical significance (P = .060).

CONCLUSIONS:

Among high school field hockey players, playing in a no-MPE state results in a statistically significant higher incidence of head and face injuries versus playing in an MPE state. Concussion rates among players in MPE and no-MPE states were similar, indicating that addition of protective eyewear did not result in more player-player contact injuries, challenging a perception in contact/collision sports that increased protective equipment yields increased injury rates.
The role of adult bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells in the repair of tissue injuries
Authors: Salamon Antal , Toldy Erzsébet , Nagy Lajos , Lőcsei Zoltán
Published: November 2012

Mesenchymal stem cells, which reside in adult bone marrow are multipotent, have an excellent regeneration potential for tissue repair. These cells are able to differentiate in cell culture not only into mesodermal lineages but also into other lineages of ectodermal and endodermal cells. This regenerative process is assisted by application of bioactive molecules, specific growth factors and biomaterials (scaffolds). The cell therapy is successfully used in the treatment of bone defects, nonunions, osteoblasts formed from the mesenchymal stem cells. At present, there are encouraging data in the clinical practice. The mesenchymal stem cell seems to be successful in the regeneration of articular cartilage. There are further promising data for the application of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of myocardial infarction, neurologic diseases, liver and kidney diseases and injuries and diabetes mellitus. The aim of this review is to survey the molecular characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells and specific growth factors using the data of preclinical investigations and to call attention to their possible clinical application. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1807–1815.
Enterobius vermicularis infection is well controlled among preschool children in nurseries of Taipei City, Taiwan
Authors: Chu Tu-Bin , Liao Chien-Wei , Nara Takeshi , Huang Ying-Chie , Chou Chia-Mei , Liu Yu-Hsin , Fan Chia-Kwung
Published: November 2012

INTRODUCTION: Whether Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) infections among preschool children in Taipei City had truly declined was investigated. METHODS: A total of 6,661 preschool children from 28 nurseries were randomly selected from 4 major geographic districts in Taipei City to examine the status of pinworm infection by using adhesive thin cellophane tape swab method. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of pinworm infection was 0.5% (30/6,661). Boys (0.6%; 21/3,524) had higher prevalence than girls (0.3%; 9/3,137) (p=0.06). Southern district (0.6%; 10/1,789) showed insignificantly higher prevalence than Western district (0.2%; 1/606) (p=0.22). CONCLUSIONS: Pinworm screening program remains necessary for some parts of Taipei City.
Secondary bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia during treatment of chronic hepatitis C: role of pegylated interferon alfa-2a
Authors: Martins Ronaldo Soares , Machado Juliano Antunes , Teixeira Rosângela
Published: November 2012

The treatment of chronic hepatitis C has frequent side effects such as cytopenias and neuropsychiatric symptoms. However, pulmonary toxicity associated with interferon is rarely described. This paper describes the clinical case of a 67-year-old female patient with chronic hepatitis C who presented an acute onset of dry cough, dyspnoea, and fever 36 weeks after the use of pegylated interferon alfa-2a and ribavirin. The lung biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of a bronchiolitis obliterans organizing pneumonia (BOOP). Corticotherapy was initiated, with clinical and radiological improvement. This paper aims to advise physicians to this occasional, though severe, adverse event related to hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment.
Operational parameters of soybean seeding in santa fe system
Authors: Chioderoli Carlos A. , Furlani Carlos E. A. , Aguiar Aislan O. , Cavichioli Fábio A. , Cassia Marcelo T.
Published: November 2012

The use of no tillage system associated with the crop-livestock integration is an alternate managing that promotes the accumulation of dry matter in the soil, an essential fact to make the system sustainable and profitable. The aim of this study was to evaluate the operational performance of a planter-tractor set on maize straws intercropped with Urochloa, in different seeding modes. The soybean crop was seed on the intercropping of two forage species (Urochloa brizantha and Urochloa ruziziensis) in five cropping systems: MBL (Maize with Urochloa in the maize seeding row, mixed with base fertilizer and deposited at 0.10 m), MBE (Maize with Urochloa seeded between rows at the same day of seeding maize), MBC (Urochloa between rows of maize seeded with the covering fertilizer at the V4 stage), MBLA (Maize with Urochloa by broadcast seeding at the V4 stage ) and MS (Single Maize: control). The following variables were evaluated: dry mass of maize straw, dry mass of forages and total dry mass of straw; and for the operational parameters the speed of seeding, wheel slippage, traction force and average power at the drawbar. The results showed that the amount of straw produced by maize intercropping with Urochloa, interferes in the operational performance of the tractor-planter at the operation of soybean seeding, i.e., areas with higher amount of straw promote greater energy demand, as well as higher wheel slippage.
Estudo clínico, histopatológico e imunoistoquímico de neoplasias mamárias em cadelas
Authors: Feliciano M.A.R. , Silva A.S. , Peixoto R.V.R. , Galera P.D. , Vicente W.R.R.
Published: November 2012

O objetivo foi realizar um estudo clínico e epidemiológico de neoplasias mamárias em cadelas, considerando-se histórico reprodutivo, exame físico, diagnóstico histopatológico e imunoistoquímico. Utilizaram-se 60 neoplasias mamárias, divididas em grupos (grupo 1 - benigno, e grupo 2 - maligno). Avaliaram-se dados do histórico reprodutivo, o exame físico e achados histopatológicos e imunoistoquímicos para fator de crescimento endotelial vascular. Ao estudo do histórico reprodutivo, encontraram-se 90% dos animais com irregularidade de cio, 86,63% das cadelas não foram medicadas com contraceptivos e 83,33% não eram castradas. Ao exame físico, não foi verificada diferença (p>0,05) entre grupos ao se avaliar consistência das massas, regularidade da superfície tumoral e localização anatômica dos tumores. Quanto ao tamanho das massas, verificou-se diferença entre os grupos (p=0,0077), com 0,78±1,13cm para o grupo 1 e 1,81±2,29cm para o grupo 2. Diagnosticaram-se 40% de massas benignas e 60% de malignas, de acordo com os tipos de neoplasias. Para VEGF, verificaram-se valores médios de 2,22±0,89 para tumores malignos e 1,66±0,91 para benignos, com diferença entre grupos (p=0,0315). As neoplasias mamárias em cadelas não apresentam características de histórico reprodutivo e de exame clínico que auxiliem o diagnóstico diferencial, sendo a histopatologia o único método para conclusão do diagnóstico e a imunoistoquímica podendo ser utilizada para prognóstico da lesão.
Exame ortopédico, com e sem anestesia geral, de cães com luxação patelar medial
Authors: Figueiredo M.L. , Silva C.E.S. , Fernandes T.H.T. , Chioratto R. , Tudury E.A.
Published: November 2012

Compararam-se os achados musculotendinosos e osteoarticulares encontrados em cães com luxação patelar medial, por meio do exame ortopédico realizado com e sem anestesia geral. Para tal, foram utilizados 11 joelhos de 10 cães, sem distinção de sexo, idade e raça, os quais apresentaram luxação patelar medial dos graus II, III e IV, diagnosticada clinicamente. O exame ortopédico específico da articulação do joelho foi realizado previamente à cirurgia, com o animal sem anestesia, e, no dia da cirurgia, com o cão já anestesiado. Verificou-se, quanto aos achados osteoarticulares, que não houve diferenças. Já em relação aos achados musculotendinosos, houve diferença entre as avaliações do movimento de gaveta e dos músculos sartório e retofemoral.
Development and bacteriological, chemical and sensory characterization of fishburgers made of Tilapia minced meat and surimi
Authors: Mello S.C.R.P. , Freitas M.Q. , São Clemente S.C. , Franco R.M. , Nogueira E.B. , Freitas D.D.G.C.
Published: November 2012

In this study fishburger samples obtained from tilapia minced meat and surimi retrieved from fillet frames - filleting process waste - have been assessed. Four different preparations of fishburger were made. Chemical analyses was performed for protein, lipids, moisture and ash assessments, as well as bacteriological analyses through mesophilic aerobic heterotrophic and psychrotrophic bacteria counts, isolation and identification of Salmonella spp., coagulase-positive Staphylococcus and fecal coliforms. Instrumental measurements were also carried out for texture and tested sensory acceptance. The costs of the ingredients used in the preparation of formulas were also assessed. Microbiological standards, established by current regulations, were met by all samples. No significant gap (P>0.05) was detected among the percentage of protein, moisture and ashes, while a significant gap (P<0.05) was verified for lipids. A significant gap (P<0.05) for the instrumental measurements of texture was also observed. Both surimi and minced meat fishburger presented good acceptance on sensory tests for taste, texture and overall impression. The use of smoked fish flavoring and surimi caused a considerable increase in costs due to ingredient acquisition. This study shows a positive result for the industrialization and consumption potential of fishburgers made of minced fish retrieved from fillet frames.
Decomposição do folhedo em reflorestamento ciliar na bacia hidrográfica do rio São Francisco, Minas Gerais
Authors: Nunes Flávia Peres , Pinto Maria Tereza Cândido
Published: November 2012

Neste trabalho, objetivou-se analisar a dinâmica da decomposição do folhedo em um reflorestamento ciliar no alto São Francisco, MG, de forma comparada a uma floresta ciliar nativa, para testar a hipótese de que a decomposição é dependente da estrutura e da composição florística da vegetação. A taxa de decomposição foi medida pela perda mensal de massa foliar armazenada em 12 "litterbags" de 20 x 20 cm, contendo 5 gramas de folhedo recém-caído e seco, distribuídos aleatoriamente nos dois trechos de vegetação e retirados mensalmente. A cinética da perda de massa foi mais rápida na mata nativa, com um T50% em 5 meses após o início do experimento (02/2002), em detrimento do reflorestamento, cuja perda foi de somente 30% do valor inicial no período. Tal fato parece refletir a estrutura e composição em espécies dos trechos de vegetação e o clima local, uma vez que a mata nativa, cujo dossel é mais fechado, apresentou menor luminosidade, resultando em maior umidade e temperatura constantemente amena em seu interior, o que pode ter favorecido a proliferação de microorganismos decompositores, além da composição florística discrepante, uma vez que o reflorestamento apresentou menor diversidade de espécies, com o predomínio de Bauhinia variegata L., frente à maior diversidade da mata nativa. Além disso, o fragmento de mata ciliar nativo apresentou teores de matéria orgânica no folhedo maiores que no trecho reflorestado, o que pode ter contribuído para uma decomposição mais rápida.
Procedimentos empregados na estimativa das medidas de massa e de volume de alimentos selecionados pelo Inquérito Nacional de Alimentação 2008-2009
Authors: Bezerra Ilana Nogueira , Monteiro Luana Silva , Araujo Marina Campos , Pereira Rosangela Alves , Yokoo Edna Massae , Sichieri Rosely
Published: November 2012

OBJETIVO: Descrever os procedimentos utilizados para estimar as medidas de massa e de volume dos itens mais consumidos no Brasil e apresentar propostas que possam ser adotadas para o aprimoramento do cálculo das quantidades ingeridas nos inquéritos alimentares no Brasil. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados os dados do Inquérito Nacional de Alimentação 2008-2009 para descrever as frequências brutas das unidades de medida referidas para os cinco itens mais consumidos no Brasil (arroz, feijão, café, pão e carne bovina frita), exemplificouse a construção da base de dados utilizada no Inquérito Nacional de Alimentação e discutiramse as principais dificuldades encontradas nesse processo. RESULTADOS: Foram citadas aproximadamente 11.800 unidades de medidas associadas a cerca de 2.000 alimentos/preparações. A colher de servir foi a medida mais citada para o arroz (57%); a concha, para o feijão (80%); a xícara de café, para café (36%); unidade, para pão de sal (88%) e bife, para carne bovina frita (54%). Medidas equivocadas ou incompatíveis com os alimentos e unidades de medida que dificilmente podem ser dimensionadas foram citadas e uma unidade de medida padrão foi utilizada para estimar a quantidade consumida nessas situações. CONCLUSÃO: Na estimativa das quantidades relatadas no Inquérito Nacional de Alimentação foram adotados procedimentos no intuito de minimizar os erros de mensuração. Esforços para melhorar a quantificação dos alimentos consumidos em inquéritos nacionais se justificam uma vez que a padronização das medidas referidas em inquéritos nutricionais possibilita comparações nacionais e internacionais e contribui para elaboração de recomendações e guias de alimentação e nutrição.
ChIP-Chip Identifies SEC23A, CFDP1, and NSD1 as TFII-I Target Genes in Human Neural Crest Progenitor Cells
Authors: Makeyev Aleksandr V. , Bayarsaihan Dashzeveg
Published: November 2012

Objectives

GTF2I and GTF2IRD1 genes located in Williams-Beuren syndrome (WBS) critical region encode TFII-I family transcription factors. The aim of this study was to map genomic sites bound by these proteins across promoter regions of developmental regulators associated with craniofacial development.

Design

Chromatin was isolated from human neural crest progenitor cells and the DNA-binding profile was generated using the human RefSeq tiling promoter ChIP-chip arrays.

Results

TFII-I transcription factors are recruited to the promoters of SEC23A, CFDP1, and NSD1 previously defined as TFII-I target genes. Moreover, our analysis revealed additional binding elements that contain E-boxes and initiator-like motifs.

Conclusions

Genome-wide promoter binding studies revealed SEC23A, CFDP1, and NSD1 linked to craniofacial or dental development as direct TFII-I targets. Developmental regulation of these genes by TFII-I factors could contribute to the WBS-specific facial dysmorphism.
Fragmented Adipose Tissue Transplanted to Craniofacial Deformities Induces Bone Repair Associated with Immunoexpression of Adiponectin and Parathyroid Hormone 1-Receptor
Authors: Azevedo-Neto Ranulfo Duarte , Gonzaga Carla Castiglia , Deliberador Tatiana Miranda , Klug Luiz Gustavo , Da Costa Oliveira Lidiane , Zielak João Cesar , De Andrade Urban Cicero , De Araujo Melissa Rodrigues , Giovanini Allan Fernando
Published: November 2012

Objective

This study analyzed the influence of autogenous white adipose tissue on bone matrix development in critical-size defects created in rabbit calvaria.

Materials and Methods

A 15-mm-diameter defect was created in the calvaria of 42 rabbits. Twenty-one rabbits were treated with 86 mm3 of immediate transplant of fragmented white subcutaneous adipose tissue (WSAT); the others constituted the control group (sham). The animals were euthanized at 7, 15, and 40 days postsurgery (n = 7), and the histological data were analyzed by histomorphometry and immunohistochemistry using the anti-adiponectin and parathyroid hormone 1-receptor (PTH1R) antibodies.

Results

The calvariae treated with fragmented WSAT demonstrated significant bone formation. These results coincided with the significant presence of immunopositivity to adiponectin and PTH1R in loci, which in turn coincided with the increase in bonelike matrix deposited both in fat tissue stroma and adipocytes' cytoplasm. In contrast, the control group revealed a small amount of bone-matrix deposition and presented scarce PTH1R expression and a lack of immunostain for adiponectin.

Conclusion

These results indicate that transplant of fragmented white subcutaneous adipose tissue may be an alternative to treatment of craniofacial bone deformities because adipose tissue suffers from osseous metaplasia and exhibits immunoexpression of the adiponectin and PTH1R, which are proteins associated with bone metabolism
Numerical studies on composite connections under fire
Authors: Wang Aaron J.
Published: November 2012

A three-dimensional finite-element thermal model is proposed to predict the temperature histories of various components of composite connections under fire. The model was carefully calibrated against a series of standard fire tests. Temperature histories both within connections and in composite sections are compared and calibrated. A two-dimensional finite-element mechanical model is adopted and calibrated to predict the structural response of composite connections at elevated temperatures. Both of the models are efficient tools for integrated analysis and design of composite end-plate connections; they are also readily extended to study the structural behavior, under various fire scenarios, of semi-continuous composite beams and floors with different connections to columns with enhanced fire-resistant performance, considering both membrane and catenary floor actions.
Beyond shading: Litter production by neighbors contributes to overyielding in tropical trees
Authors: Sapijanskas Jurgis , Potvin Catherine , Loreau Michel
Published: November 2012

The influence of biodiversity on ecosystem functioning is now well established. However, our ability to predict the ecological consequences of biodiversity changes remains limited by our poor understanding of the mechanisms underlying biodiversity effects. We disentangled the contributions of light competition and residual neighborhood interactions in a 10‐year‐old biodiversity experiment with tropical trees that display overyielding, i.e., higher community‐level yields in mixtures compared with monocultures. We developed models of individual tree growth that partition the effects of neighboring trees into shading and residual effects assumed to reflect primarily belowground interactions. These models reject the hypothesis that reduced light competition in mixtures is the only mechanism driving overyielding. After factoring out the effects of shading, litter production by neighbors was a far better predictor of tree growth than traditional crowding indices; it contributed to overyielding by producing pairwise interactions that ranged from competitive to facilitative, but which, on average, concentrated competition within species. Consistent with litter‐mediated biodiversity effects, the magnitude of overyielding increased over time. Our results provide evidence for diversity effects extending beyond that of light and reveal the neglected role of litter‐mediated interactions among trees.
The Impact and Consequences of Partner Abuse on Partners
Authors: Lawrence Erika , Orengo-Aguayo Rosaura , Langer Amie , Brock Rebecca L.
Published: November 2012

This study represents a comprehensive review and critique of 122 empirical articles and 10 review articles on the psychological and physical consequences of psychological and physical abuse on partners and yielded several strong and consistent conclusions. Victims of psychological and physical abuse experience more physical injuries, poorer physical functioning and health outcomes, higher rates of psychological symptoms and disorders, and poorer cognitive functioning compared to nonvictims. These findings were consistent regardless of the nature of the sample and, with some exceptions, generally greater for female victims compared to male victims. Moreover, psychological victimization appears to be at least as strongly related to victims’ psychological consequences as is physical victimization. There was a relative dearth of research examining the consequences of psychological abuse for male victims, and the results of those studies have been mixed. Research examining sex differences yields strong and consistent evidence that physical violence has more deleterious consequences for women overall. However, the severity of the physical abuse seems to moderate differences in injury rates. In addition to these known findings from past reviews, this study generated several novel findings. First, there is a small but critical group of studies demonstrating the effects of abuse on health behaviors. Second, physical victimization has serious economic and social consequences for victims and society at large. Third, the consequences of abuse were significantly worse for female victims who were of low income, ethnic minorities, and/or unemployed. In the second section of this article, we critique the existing literature in terms of the content of the research, as well as on conceptual and methodological grounds. In the third section we offer specific recommendations for future research and intervention efforts.
Does Growing Safflower before Barley Reduce Barley Yields under Mediterranean Conditions?
Authors: Yau Sui‐Kwong , Ryan John
Published: November 2012

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.), which has deep roots, can be grown as an economical oil crop in semiarid, rain‐fed areas of West Asia and North Africa, where barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) monoculture is a common practice. In this study, we sought to: (i) evaluate the effect of safflower on the yield of the following barley crop and (ii) compare such effect with other crops to determine the potential of rotating safflower with barley. Two series of experiments were conducted under rain‐fed conditions in Lebanon's Bekaa Valley (2002–2003 to 2003–2004 and 2005–2006 to 2010–2011). In Series 1, there were 12 2‐yr rotation systems, whereas in Series 2, 3 rotation systems were studied. Results from the two and three rotation cycles were reported from the first and second series of experiments, respectively. Rotation effects were significant (P ≤ 0.05) for barley grain yield, straw yield, and harvest index, but rotation × year interaction was not significant. In Series 1, barley after safflower gave the highest harvest index (0.40 kg kg−1) and mean grain yield (1400 kg ha−1), that is, 28 to 72% higher grain yield than after the other crops, except after cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) and common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) for grazing. In Series 2, grain yield and harvest index of barley after safflower (4090 kg ha−1, 0.36 kg kg−1) were higher than that after barley (3010 kg ha−1, 0.32 kg kg−1). Thus, growing safflower before barley increased rather than decreased barley yields, and was comparable to or better than after some legumes. Barley/safflower therefore appears to be a viable rotation in semiarid, rain‐fed Mediterranean areas.
Seedling Survival and Establishment Costs: Crimson and White Clover in Bermudagrass Pastures
Authors: Smith S. Aaron , Popp Michael , Philipp Dirk
Published: November 2012

Improving existing pastures with legumes has the potential to reduce fertilizer costs, distribute forage growth throughout the year, and improve forage quality for cow–calf operations in the transition zone of the southeastern United States. A study was conducted at the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture's Watershed Research and Education Center located in Fayetteville, AR, to estimate costs for three establishment factors on existing bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] pasture (no‐till vs. broadcast planting, grazing before vs. after planting, and seeding at standard vs. low rates). Standard seed rates were 18.8 kg ha−1 for crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum L.) and 5.0 kg ha−1 for white clover (Trifolium repens L.), with low rates at half the standard seed rate. The study revealed that no‐till drill seeding and seeding at the lower rates resulted in higher rates of survival. Survival rates were also statistically significantly different across crops. Grazing before or after planting to enhance seed soil contact, especially for broadcast plantings, did not have a statistically significant impact. Finally, cost per established plant analysis revealed that standard seeding rates led to lower average costs than the low seeding rate, a result that was driven to a large extent by a lower likelihood of stand failure with the higher seeding rate. On the basis of this trial, broadcast seeding can be recommended for crimson clover, whereas the no‐till drill led to superior performance with white clover.