bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Polymerization Studies of Organic‐Soluble Eumelanins†
Authors: Lawrie Kirsten J. , Meredith Paul , McGeary Ross P.
Published: February 2008

The isolation, structure determination and chemical characterization of eumelanins has been plagued by their very low solubility in organic solvents. To gain insights into the structure and reactivity of these unusual and important biologic macromolecules and to pave the way for their use in electronics, we have prepared soluble melanins via the synthesis of monomeric precursors containing lipophilic substituents. Two such monomers derived from 5,6‐dihydroxyindole‐2‐carboxylic acid (DHICA) were prepared, namely the benzyl and octyl ester derivatives. Both benzyl and octyl ester monomers were oxidatively polymerized to yield dark, melanin‐like pigments. These polymerization processes were followed by UV–visible, fluorescence and NMR spectroscopy. These studies showed that the polymerizations proceeded by cross‐linking at the 4‐ and 7‐positions of the indole nucleus and led to highly heterogeneous polymeric products. Incorporation of a lipophilic benzyl or octyl group resulted in enhanced solubility of the pigments in a wide range of organic solvents. The UV–visible spectra of the organically soluble synthetic melanins were essentially identical to that of natural eumelanin.
The Melanocortin 1 Receptor and the UV Response of Human Melanocytes—A Shift in Paradigm†
Authors: Abdel‐Malek Zalfa A. , Knittel James , Kadekaro Ana Luisa , Swope Viki B. , Starner Renny
Published: February 2008

Cutaneous pigmentation is the major photoprotective mechanism against the carcinogenic and aging effects of UV. Epidermal melanocytes synthesize the pigment melanin, in the form of eumelanin or pheomelanin. Synthesis of the photoprotective eumelanin by human melanocytes is regulated mainly by the melanocortins α‐melanocortin (α‐MSH) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), which bind the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) and activate the cAMP pathway that is required for UV‐induced tanning. Melanocortins stimulate proliferation and melanogenesis and inhibit UV‐induced apoptosis of human melanocytes. Importantly, melanocortins reduce the generation of hydrogen peroxide and enhance repair of DNA photoproducts, independently of pigmentation. MC1R is a major contributor to the diversity of human pigmentation and a melanoma susceptibility gene. Certain allelic variants of this gene, namely R151C, R160W and D294H, are strongly associated with red hair phenotype and increased melanoma susceptibility. Natural expression of two of these variants sensitizes melanocytes to the cytotoxic effect of UV, and increases the burden of DNA damage and oxidative stress. We are designing potent melanocortin analogs that mimic the effects of α‐MSH as a strategy to prevent skin cancer, particularly in individuals who express MC1R genotypes that reduce but do not abolish MC1R function, or mutations in other melanoma susceptibility genes, such as p16.
THE STAR FORMATION HISTORIES OF EARLY-TYPE GALAXIES: INSIGHTS FROM THE REST-FRAME ULTRAVIOLET
Authors: KAVIRAJ SUGATA
Published: February 2008

Our current understanding of the star formation histories of early-type galaxies is reviewed, in the context of recent observational studies of their ultraviolet (UV) properties. Combination of UV and optical spectro-photometric data indicates that the bulk of the stellar mass in the early-type population forms at high redshift (z>2), possibly over short timescales (<1 Gyr). Nevertheless, early-types of all luminosities form stars over the lifetime of the Universe, with most luminous (-23<M(V)<-21) systems forming 10–15% of their stellar mass after z = 1 (with a scatter to higher value), while their less luminous (M(V)>-21) counterparts form 30–60% of their mass in the same redshift range. The large scatter in the (rest-frame) UV colours in the redshift range 0<z<0.7 indicates widespread low-level star formation in the early-type population over the last 8 billion years. The mass fraction of young (<1 Gyr old) stars in luminous early-type galaxies varies between 1% and 6% at z ~ 0 and is in the range 5–13% at z ~ 0.7. The intensity of recent star formation and the bulk of the UV colour distribution is consistent with what might be expected from minor mergers (mass ratios ≲ 1:6) in a ΛCDM cosmology.
CONTINUOUS AXION–PHOTON DUALITY AND ITS CONSEQUENCES
Authors: GUENDELMAN E. I.
Published: February 2008

The axion–photon system in an external magnetic field, when for example considered with the geometry of the experiments exploring axion–photon mixing, displays a continuous axion–photon duality symmetry in the limit the axion mass is neglected. The conservation law that follows from this symmetry is obtained. The magnetic field interaction is seen to be equivalent to first order to the interaction of a complex charged field with an external electric potential, where this fictitious "electric potential" is proportional to the external magnetic field. This allows one to solve for the scattering amplitudes using already known scalar QED results. It is argued that in more generic conditions (not just related to these experiments) axion–photon condensation could be obtained for high magnetic fields. Finally an exact constraint originating from the current conservation on the amplitudes of reflected and transmitted waves is obtained.
Multiple organic anion transporters contribute to net renal excretion of uric acid
Authors: Eraly Satish A. , Vallon Volker , Rieg Timo , Gangoiti Jon A. , Wikoff William R. , Siuzdak Gary , Barshop Bruce A. , Nigam Sanjay K.
Published: February 2008

Excretion of uric acid, a compound of considerable medical importance, is largely determined by the balance between renal secretion and reabsorption. The latter process has been suggested to be principally mediated by urate transporter 1 (URAT1; slc22a12), but the role of various putative urate transporters has been much debated. We have characterized urate handling in mice null for RST, the murine ortholog of URAT1, as well as in those null for the related organic anion transporters Oat1 and Oat3. Expression of mRNA of other putative urate transporters (UAT, MRP2, MRP4, Oatv1) was unaffected in the knockouts, as were general indexes of renal function (glomerular filtration rate, fractional excretion of fluid and electrolytes). While mass spectrometric analyses of urine and plasma revealed significantly diminished renal reabsorption of urate in RST-null mice, the bulk of reabsorption, surprisingly, was preserved. Oat1- and Oat3-null mice manifested decreased secretion rather than reabsorption, indicating that these related transporters transport urate in the “opposite” direction to RST. Moreover, metabolomic analyses revealed significant alteration in the concentration of several molecules in the plasma and urine of RST knockouts, some of which may represent additional substrates of RST. The results suggest that RST, Oat1, and Oat3 each contribute to urate handling, but, at least in mice, the bulk of reabsorption is mediated by a transporter(s) that remains to be identified. We discuss the data in the context of recent human genetic studies that suggest that the magnitude of the contribution of URAT1 to urate reabsorption might vary with ethnic background.
Intersurgeon Variability in the Selection of Anterior and Posterior Commissures and Its Potential Effects on Target Localization
Authors: Pallavaram Srivatsan , Yu Hong , Spooner John , D’Haese Pierre-François , Bodenheimer Bobby , Konrad Peter E. , Dawant Benoit M.
Published: February 2008

Background: This study reports the intersurgeon variability in manual selection of the anterior and posterior commissures (AC and PC). The study also investigates the effect of this variability on the localization of targets like the subthalamic nucleus, ventralis intermedius nucleus and globus pallidus internus. The additional effect of variation in the selection of the mid-plane on target localization is also evaluated. Methods: 43 neurosurgeons (38 attendings, 5 residents/ fellows) were asked to select the AC and the PC points (as routinely used for stereotactic neurosurgical planning) on two MRI scans. The corresponding mid-commissural points (MCPs) and target coordinates were calculated. Results: The collected data show that the MCP is more reliable than either the AC or the PC points. These data also show that, even for experienced neurosurgeons, variations in selecting the AC and the PC point result in substantial variations at the target points: 1.15 ± 0.89 mm, 1.45 ± 1.25 mm, 1.21 ± 0.83 for the subthalamic nucleus, ventralis intermedius nucleus, and globus pallidus internus, respectively, for the first MRI volumeand 1.08 ± 1.37 mm, 1.35 ± 1.71 mm, 1.12 ± 1.17 mm for the same structures for the second volume. These variations are larger when residents/fellows are included in the data set. Conclusions: The data collected in this study highlight the difficulty in establishing a common reference system that can be used to communicate target location across sites. It indicates the need for the development and evaluation of alternative normalization methods that would permit specifying targets directly in image coordinates or the development of improved imaging techniques that would permit direct targeting.
Middle Cerebral Artery Stenosis Increased the Risk of Vascular Disease Mortality among Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Thomas G. Neil , Chen Xiang-Yan , Lin Jian Wen , Tomlinson Brian , Lam Wynnie W.M. , Liu Roxanna , Yeung Vincent T.F. , Chan Juliana C.N. , Wong Ka Sing
Published: February 2008

Background: In Chinese populations, middle cerebral artery (MCA) stenosis is the most commonly identified intracranial vascular lesion, and has been shown to be associated with an increased risk of secondary stroke mortality, but has yet to be reported for primary events. We assess whether asymptomatic MCA stenosis is associated with mortality in Chinese type 2 diabetic patients. Methods: The presence of MCA stenosis was determined by transcranial Doppler and mortality data were collated in the Hong Kong Death Registry. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to determine if the MCA stenosis (n = 272, 53.7% 2-vessel disease) in 2,197 diabetics was associated with all-cause or vascular disease mortality, including after adjustment for conventional vascular risk factors. Anthropometric and fasting biochemical parameters were compared between diabetic patients with MCA stenosis and without evidence of stenosis. Results: A total of 191 deaths were identified (30.9% of vascular disease origin) during a follow-up of 18,279 patient years over 8.32 years. After adjustment for age, gender and diabetes duration, the hazard ratios for vascular mortality for 1- and 2-vessel disease were 2.47 (95% CI = 1.13–5.38) and 4.47 (95% CI = 2.24–8.82), p < 0.001 for trend, for increasing vascular mortality with increasing severity of cerebrovascular involvement, but 0.81 (95% CI = 0.45–1.47) and 2.23 (95% CI = 1.45–1.47), p = 0.001 for trend, for all-cause mortality. For vascular mortality, further adjustments for anthropometric and fasting biochemical parameters, or existing disease and treatment history increased the hazard ratios for 1-vessel disease slightly but attenuated the risk for 2-vessel disease evidently, 2.81 (95% CI = 1.10–7.16) and 2.85 (95% = CI 1.11–7.33), p = 0.026. Conclusion: The presence of MCA stenoses was an independent predictor of vascular mortality in these diabetics. More aggressive treatment of risk factors in these subjects merits further evaluation.
Simulation of Daily Variation of Suspended Particulate Matter over Delhi: Relative Roles of Vehicular Emission, Dust, and Domestic Appliances
Authors: Goswami P. , Baruah J.
Published: February 2008

The massive growth in the size and the population of cities over the past few decades has led to serious deterioration in the quality of air. One of the important constituents of airborne pollutants, which is a major health hazard, is suspended particulate matter (SPM). SPM is also an important source of cloud condensation nuclei; accurate simulations of SPM with sufficiently long lead thus have many applications, from issuing health advisories to forecasting fog. One of the biggest challenges in modeling air pollution in general and SPM in particular is to identify and mathematically represent the (location specific) sources and sinks. In this study the authors present a dynamical model for daily values of SPM over Delhi, India. The meteorological parameters are taken from the daily values from NCEP reanalysis. The validation is carried out against observations generated by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) in India for the period 2000–05. Error statistics show that the model can capture a significant part of the observed variability of SPM. An evaluation of the relative contributions of various sources show that while vehicular pollution accounts for a large fraction of the SPM throughout the year, steep increases in the winter and the premonsoon periods are accounted for by fossil fuel burning and wind blown dust, respectively. Simulation with a doubling scenario for traffic congestion shows the effect to have strong seasonality. Such a model can be also interfaced with a seasonal forecast model or a climate model for enhanced scope of seasonal forecasts or for an investigation of the impact of SPM on regional climate change.
Social Influence by Artefacts
Authors: Bauer Martin W.
Published: February 2008

A review of the paradigms of social influence – suggestion, imitation, normalization, conformity, compliance, conversion – leads me to diagnose a triple malaise: the shrinkage of paradigms to cognitive dual-processing theories of information; the dominant methodology of laboratory experiments falls short of the reality of (mass) communication; and the focus of social influence on inter-subjectivity is only half of the story. I will suggest two extensions of social influence theory to include mass media communication and the inter-objectivity of artefacts. We need to be able to conceptualize the modalities of why, how and to what effect somebody might put up a wall to influence neighbours instead of contenting themselves with putting up a public note ‘Do not trespass!’. Social influence by fait accompli needs to be within the remit of social psychology, otherwise it loses its relevance in a technological society where artefacts mediate most inter-personal relations.
Henry Duméry, Imagination et religion. Éléments de judaïsme, éléments de christianisme, Paris: Les Belles Lettres, 2006, 468pp
Authors: Emery Maria
Published: February 2008

This is a review of H. Duméry's volume Imagination et religion. Éléments de judaïsme, éléments de christianisme. The author studies biblical religion and the origins of the Christian religion, classifying and recording the imaginative element that feeds the narratives of piety: hence the rehabilitation of the myths that frame the functioning of religious representations. The author suggests that the imagination, in its deepest resources, forges the human social, has the power to invent all social roles, and causes the emergence of attitudes of devotion or renunciation which are a human prerogative.
Ceramide induces p38 MAPK and JNK activation through a mechanism involving a thioredoxin-interacting protein-mediated pathway
Authors: Chen Chia-Ling , Lin Chiou-Feng , Chang Wen-Tsan , Huang Wei-Ching , Teng Chiao-Fang , Lin Yee-Shin
Published: February 2008

Ceramide, a tumor-suppressor lipid, is generated by sphingomyelin hydrolysis or by de novo synthesis when cells are activated by various stress stimuli as well as when cancer cells are subjected to genotoxic chemotherapy. Ceramide may modulate apoptotic signaling pathways; however, its transcription-dependent effects remain unclear. Our data showed that actinomycin D partially inhibited ceramide-induced apoptosis. Using microarray analysis, we found that ceramide up-regulated a tumor suppressor gene called thioredoxin-interacting protein (Txnip). Similarly, the chemotherapeutic agent etoposide induced Txnip expression en route to apoptosis, which was blocked by inhibitors of ceramide production. Txnip colocalized with thioredoxin and reduced its activity, which caused dissociation of thioredoxin from apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1). Cells expressing ASK1 siRNA were more resistant to ceramide-induced apoptosis. Ceramide caused ASK1-regulated p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and JNK activation, as well as activation of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress cascade, and pharmacologic or siRNA-mediated inhibition of p38 MAPK or JNK partially reduced ceramide-induced mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, ceramide-induced ASK1, p38, and JNK phosphorylation and cell apoptosis were inhibited by Txnip siRNA transfection. Taken together, we show that ceramide exhibits a mechanism of transcriptional regulation involving up-regulation of Txnip expression, also induced by etoposide, which results in ASK1 activation, ER stress, and p38 and JNK phosphorylation, all leading to apoptosis.
SNP@Promoter: a database of human SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) within the putative promoter regions
Authors: Kim Byoung-Chul , Kim Woo-Yeon , Park Daeui , Chung Won-Hyong , Shin Kwang-sik , Bhak Jong
Published: February 2008

Background

Analysis of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) is becoming a key research in genomics fields. Many functional analyses of SNPs have been carried out for coding regions and splicing sites that can alter proteins and mRNA splicing. However, SNPs in non-coding regulatory regions can also influence important biological regulation. Presently, there are few databases for SNPs in non-coding regulatory regions.

Description

We identified 488,452 human SNPs in the putative promoter regions that extended from the +5000 bp to -500 bp region of the transcription start sites. Some SNPs occurring in transcription factor (TF) binding sites were also predicted (47,832 SNP; 9.8%). The result is stored in a database: SNP@promoter. Users can search the SNP@Promoter database using three entries: 1) by SNP identifier (rs number from dbSNP), 2) by gene (gene name, gene symbol, refSeq ID), and 3) by disease term. The SNP@Promoter database provides extensive genetic information and graphical views of queried terms.

Conclusion

We present the SNP@Promoter database. It was created in order to predict functional SNPs in putative promoter regions and predicted transcription factor binding sites. SNP@Promoter will help researchers to identify functional SNPs in non-coding regions.
The unique probe selector: a comprehensive web service for probe design and oligonucleotide arrays
Authors: Chen Shu-Hwa , Lo Chen-Zen , Tsai Ming-Chi , Hsiung Chao A , Lin Chung-Yen
Published: February 2008

Background

Nucleic acid hybridization, a fundamental technique in molecular biology, can be modified into very effective and sensitive methods for detecting particular targets mixed with millions of non-target sequences. Therefore, avoiding cross-hybridization is the most crucial issue for developing diagnostic methods based on hybridization.

Results

To develop a probe with a high discriminating power, this study constructed a web service, the Unique Probe Selector (UPS), for customized probe design. The UPS service integrates a probe design mechanism and a scoring system for evaluating the performance of probe annealing and the uniqueness of a probe in a user-defined genetic background. Starting from an intuitive web interface, the UPS accepts a query with single or multiple sequences in fasta format. The best probe(s) for each sequence can be downloaded from result pages in a fasta or .csv format with a summary of probe characteristics. The option "
Unique probe within group
" selects the most unique probe for each target sequence with low probability to hybridize to the other sequences in the same submitted query. The option "
Unique probe in the specific organism
" devises probes for each submitted sequence to identify its target among selected genetic backgrounds based on Unigene.

Conclusion

The UPS evaluates probe-to-target hybridization under a user-defined condition in silico to ensure high-performance hybridization and minimizes the possibility of non-specific reactions. UPS has been applied to design human arrays for gene expression studies and to develop several small arrays of gene families that were inferred as molecular signatures of cancer typing/staging or pathogen signatures. Notably, UPS is freely accessible at http://array.iis.sinica.edu.tw/ups/.
Chronic prehepatic portal hypertension in the rat: is it a type of Metabolic Inflammatory Syndrome?
Authors: Sánchez-Patán Fernando , Anchuelo Raquel , Aller Maria-Angeles , Vara Elena , García Cruz , Nava Maria-Paz , Arias Jaime
Published: February 2008

Background

A progressive development of hepatic steatosis with an increase in the lipid hepatocyte content and the formation of megamitochondria have been demonstrated in rats with prehepatic portal hypertension. The aim of this study is to verify the existence of liver and serum lipid metabolism impairments in rats with long-term (2 years) portal hypertension.

Methods

Male Wistar rats: Control (n = 10) and with prehepatic portal hypertension by triple partial portal vein ligation (n = 9) were used. Liver content of Triglycerides (TG), phospholipids (PL) and cholesterol and serum cholesterol, lipoproteins (HDL and LDL), TG, glucose and Lipid Binding Protein (LBP) were assayed with specific colorimetric commercial kits. Serum levels of insulin and somatostatin were assayed by RIA.

Results

The liver content of TG (6.30 ± 1.95 vs. 4.17 ± 0.59 μg/ml; p < 0.01) and cholesterol (1.48 ± 0.15 vs. 1.10 ± 0.13 μg/ml; p < 0.001) increased in rats with portal hypertension. The serum levels of cholesterol (97.00+26.02 vs. 114.78 ± 37.72 mg/dl), TG (153.41 ± 80.39 vs. 324.39 ± 134.9 mg/dl; p < 0.01), HDL (20.45 ± 5.14 vs. 55.15 ± 17.47 mg/dl; p < 0.001) and somatostatin (1.32 ± 0.31 vs. 1.59 +0.37 mg/dl) decreased, whereas LDL (37.83 ± 15.39 vs. 16.77 ± 6.81 mg/dl; p < 0.001) and LBP (308.47 ± 194.53 vs. 60.27 ± 42.96 ng/ml; p < 0.001) increased.

Conclusion

Portal hypertension in the rat presents changes in the lipid and carbohydrate metabolisms similar to those produced in chronic inflammatory conditions and sepsis in humans. These underlying alterations could be involved in the development of hepatic steatosis and, therefore, in those described in the metabolic syndrome in humans.
Social Effects of Low Frequency Noise Exposure on Sufferers: Developing a Procedure of Assessment
Authors: Adams Mags , Moorhouse Andy , Waddington David
Published: February 2008

This paper describes the effects to sufferers of exposure to low frequency noise in the UK. Low frequency noise is now a recognised problem in many countries in the world and although a relatively small number of people are affected, those who are tend to suffer severe distress. In most situations a single sufferer, or perhaps a couple living in the same property, is affected but occasionally a cluster of complaints arises in a particular area. Human reaction to sound is known to be dependent not just on the sound itself, but on a complex array of other factors including personal associations with the sound. In undertaking a project, funded by Defra, to develop a procedure to assess low frequency noise complaints, we complimented the physical recordings of low frequency sounds in homes with questionnaires and interviews with the sufferers themselves to determine whether sociological or other factors might influence the results. From this we obtained a significant amount of personal data about the individuals themselves. This gave a significant overview of the background to the LFN complaint that might have a bearing on the responses. In this paper we discuss the rationale for collecting details about individuals' residential and occupational histories, their general health, details of the noise they are exposed to, suspected sources of the noise, effects of the noise on themselves and their health, and any measures they have taken to cope with or avoid the noise. We demonstrate that many complainants have ongoing problems which they associate with low frequency noise, and which have a fairly serious impact on their lives. We show how these sociological factors have been incorporated into a ‘Procedure for the assessment of low frequency noise complaints' to be used by local authorities and argue that the answers to the questions developed help local authorities distinguish cases where they should act from those where they can do nothing to help.
Pathological Effect of Homeostatic Synaptic Scaling on Network Dynamics in Diseases of the Cortex
Authors: Fröhlich Flavio , Bazhenov Maxim , Sejnowski Terrence J.
Published: February 2008

Slow periodic EEG discharges are common in CNS disorders. The pathophysiology of this aberrant rhythmic activity is poorly understood. We used a computational model of a neocortical network with a dynamic homeostatic scaling rule to show that loss of input (partial deafferentation) can trigger network reorganization that results in pathological periodic discharges. The decrease in average firing rate in the network by deafferentation was compensated by homeostatic synaptic scaling of recurrent excitation among pyramidal cells. Synaptic scaling succeeded in recovering the network target firing rate for all degrees of deafferentation (fraction of deafferented cells), but there was a critical degree of deafferentation for pathological network reorganization. For deafferentation degrees below this value, homeostatic upregulation of recurrent excitation had minimal effect on the macroscopic network dynamics. For deafferentation above this threshold, however, a slow periodic oscillation appeared, patterns of activity were less sparse, and bursting occurred in individual neurons. Also, comparison of spike-triggered afferent and recurrent excitatory conductances revealed that information transmission was strongly impaired. These results suggest that homeostatic plasticity can lead to secondary functional impairment in case of cortical disorders associated with cell loss.
Performance of Computer‐Assisted Analysis of ECG Tests in Health Examinations and Heart Disease Risk in the Normal Working Population
Authors: Katsuyama Hironobu , Tsuchiya Goro , Sunami Shigeo , Saijoh Kiyofumi
Published: February 2008

Performance of Computer‐Assisted Analysis of ECG Tests in Health Examinations and Heart Disease Risk in the Normal Working Population: Hironobu Katsuyama, et al. Department of Public Health, Kawasaki Medical School— Performance of ECGs in health examinations was examined to compare the accuracy of diagnoses made by occupational health physicians (OHPs) with those made by computer‐assisted analysis. Approximately 15‐20% of shipbuilders aged 35 or over with satisfactory performance of their duties at work had any ECG findings. The computer results differed from those of the OHPs with regard to the seriousness of Hypertrophy and the number of Ischemic changes, mainly due to differences in the decision algorithm. Further medical examinations revealed that diagnoses by the OHPs were comprehensive enough to reflect conditions of clinical importance, whereas the computer results were characterized by numerous false negatives. Continuous health examination with ECG testing found approximately 7.3% of the workers could have suffered from some cardiovascular disorder within five years. Computer‐assisted analysis is therefore useful in health examinations but a decision algorithm suitable for screening should be established to reduce the false negative rate and increase reliability.
Protective Effect of Clonidine against Toxicity of Organophosphorus Pesticides
Authors: Zhou Zhijun , Hu Yunping , Sun Yunguang , Chen Jia
Published: February 2008

Protective Effect of Clonidine against Toxicity of Organophosphorus Pesticides: Zhijun Zhou, et al. Department of Occupational Health and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Fudan University—Aim: The purpose of this study was to check whether clonidine, a centrally active alpha‐2 adrenergic agonist, could serve as an antagonist against the acute toxicity of generally used organophosphorus pesticides (OP) in laboratory animals. Methods: The tests of three factors, the dose level of pesticide, and the administration schedules for atropine and clonidine, were arranged for cross‐checking according to three level orthogonal layouts. The latency of onset of apparent body tremor, loss of righting reflex and survival time was timed. Results: The survival time was longest in the treatments with 5 mg/kg atropine, 20 min pre‐OP injection or with 1 mg/ kg clonidine, 10 min pre‐OP injection. The latency of onset of apparent body tremor and the loss of righting reflex were prolonged when clonidine or atropine was given before OP administration. Conclusion: These results indicated that the use of clonidine in the clinical treatment of intoxication by means of organophosphates is reasonable and acceptable. It is a recommendation of a new use of an old drug. Used cautiously, beneficial effects of clonidine could be expected, either separately or combined with atropine, in the treatment of organophosphate intoxication.
Association of Tooth Loss with Psychosocial Factors in Male Japanese Employees
Authors: Hayasht Naoji , Tamagawa Hiroo , Tanaka Muneo , Hanioka Takashi , Maruyama Soichiro , Takeshita Tatsuya , Morimoto Kanehisa , Shizukuishi Satoshi
Published: February 2008

Association of Tooth Loss with Psychosocial Factors in Male Japanese Employees: Naoji Hayashi, et al. Department of Preventive Dentistry, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University—It would seem that good psychosocial conditions would have a positive effect on oral health, but few data exist regarding the association of psychosocial factors with tooth loss. The association between psychosocial factors and tooth loss was studied in male industrial workers in Japan. In an annual health checkup, tooth loss status was assessed by oral examination in 252 workers (age 2059 yr). Information pertaining to psychosocial factors, lifestyle and oral health behavior was also obtained through a self‐administered questionnaire. The mean tooth loss per worker showed a significant increasing trend with age. Mean tooth loss was 0.32 in the 20‐29‐yr‐old group, 0.82 in the 30‐39‐yr‐old group, 1.28 in the 40‐49‐yr‐old group and 2.91 in the 50‐59‐yr‐old group. Bivariate analyses revealed that age (P<0.01) and alexithymia (P<0.05) were significantly associated with tooth loss. In contrast, work stress, depression, type A behavior, job‐ and life‐satisfaction were not significantly associated with tooth loss. In multivariate analyses, the associations of age (P<0.02) and alexithymia (P<0.05) remained statistically significant after adjustment for oral health behavior and lifestyle variables. We suggest that an alexithymic personality may affect tooth loss status in male employees.
Vasomotor and Other Menopausal Symptoms Influenced by Menopausal Stage and Psychosocial Factors in Japanese Middle‐Aged Women
Authors: Shiwaku Kuninori , Yamane Yosuke , Sugimura Iwao , Hayasht Masato , Nojiri Masami , Matsushima Shosui , Koyama Wasaku
Published: February 2008

Vasomotor and Other Menopausal Symptoms Influenced by Menopausal Stage and Psychosocial Factors in Japanese Middle‐Aged Women: Kuninori Shiwaku, et al. Department of Environmental Medicine, Shimane Medical University—The relationship among menopausal symptoms, the menopausal stage and psychosocial factors in climacteric of Japanese women was investigated. Information on menopausal symptoms, the menstrual cycle and psychosocial factors were collected by means of a self‐reported questionnaire in six rural communities. A general population sample of 2,886 women (recovery rate of 75%) aged 40 to 69 yr completed a report on seventeen self‐reported health symptoms over the preceding 12 months. The most bothersome complaints were aching/painful joints, weakness and headache that were reported by approximately half the population aged 40 to 69 yr, but less than 4% of the women were affected severely. One‐third of the women were bothered by night sweats, cold hands and feet, nervousness and anxiety. Approximately one in five of the women complained of hot flushes, numbness, early waking, and sleeplessness. Four factors emerged from a factor analysis: general somatic symptoms, psychological symptoms, vasomotor symptoms and aging symptoms. Hot flushes, night sweats, numbness, early waking and sleeplessness were significantly higher in the perimenopausal and postmenopausal periods than in the premenopausal period of women aged 45 to 54 yr. The menopausal stages were significantly related to the vasomotor symptoms, but had little relationship to the other menopausal symptoms, in a logistic regression model. Japanese women characteristically have a lower incidence of vasomotor and other menopausal symptoms, and a lower utilization of medical treatment for menopausal symptoms. Vasomotor symptoms were clearly associated with menopause, but other menopausal symptoms in Japanese middle‐aged women related to self‐rated health, social support and occupation.
O Direito Internacional repensado em tempos de ausências e emergências: a busca de uma tradução para o princípio da não-indiferença
Authors: Seitenfus Ricardo Antônio da Silva , Zanella Cristine Koehler , Marques Pâmela Marconatto
Published: February 2008

O presente artigo consiste na tentativa de buscar um traço comum às experiências africana e brasileira em relação àquele que vem sendo chamado, nas relações internacionais contemporâneas, Princípio da Não-Indiferença. A escolha se justifica por se tratar de um Princípio jovem, que enseja a revisão de alguns dos conceitos clássicos do Direito Internacional Tradicional, tais como a Não-Intervenção e a Soberania, carecendo, portanto, de teorização e reflexão que ampare sua aplicação.
A Amazônia Caribenha
Authors: Procópio Argemiro
Published: February 2008

A economia informal no Brasil ligando esse país à Guiana, ao Suriname, à Venezuela e à Guiana Francesa permite pensar numa Amazônia brasileiro-caribenha. O Suriname e a Guiana, essa última sede do CARICOM, convivem com fluxos migratórios de garimpeiros brasileiros fugitivos do desemprego. A economia clandestina dá o seu tom à geopolítica cultural e é mais eficiente, que a diplomacia, em estimular a aproximação entre os países caribenhos.
O Brasil diante da dinâmica migratória intra-regional vigente na América Latina e Caribe: tendências, perspectivas e oportunidades em uma nova era
Authors: Avila Carlos Federico Domínguez
Published: February 2008

O artigo explora as contribuições brasileiras na dinâmica migratória intra-regional vigente entre países da América Latina e Caribe. A dinâmica migratória intra-regional inclui as diásporas e os fluxos de brasileiros residentes nos países vizinhos e suas contrapartes latino-americanas e caribenhas residentes no Brasil. Verifica-se que o Brasil é o quinto emissor e quarto receptor de migrantes intra-regionais.
O Pragmatismo do Petróleo: as relações entre o Brasil e o Iraque
Authors: Fares Seme Taleb
Published: February 2008

No artigo se propõe analisar as relações entre o Brasil e o Iraque, com ênfase no período de 1973 a 2007. Para tanto, são examinados os aspectos econômicos, políticos e estratégicos do relacionamento bilateral, passando pelos dois choques do petróleo, a Guerra do Golfo e, finalmente, a ocupação do Iraque em 2003.
O México como aliado dos EUA no projeto de integração das Américas
Authors: Santos Marcelo
Published: February 2008

O artigo sugere que, nas duas últimas décadas, os governos mexicanos vêm adotando medidas políticas e econômicas amplamente afinadas com o modelo de integração econômica das Américas proposto pelos EUA. A adesão incondicional ao Nafta e o empenho para consolidar os projetos do Corredor Biológico Mesoamericano e do Plano Puebla-Panamá são exemplos fundamentais dessa estratégia.
Germinação de sementes de Bothriospora corymbosa (Rubiaceae) recuperadas do trato digestório de Triportheus angulatus (sardinha) no Lago Camaleão, Amazônia Central
Authors: Maia Lúcia Alencar , Santos Leocinira M. dos , Parolin Pia
Published: February 2008

Na Amazônia as áreas inundáveis são cobertas por florestas com alta diversidade de espécies arbóreas que proporcionam a ictiofauna frutos e sementes indispensáveis a sua alimentação. Alguns estudos de alimentação têm mostrado que a estrutura tegumentar de sementes encontradas no trato digestório de peixes, se apresentavam intactas. Assim, este estudo teve como objetivo verificar se Triportheus angulatus (Spix & Agassiz, 1829) pode ser um agente dispersor de Bothriospora corymbosa (Bth) Hook. f. (Rubiaceae). A pesquisa foi desenvolvida no lago Camaleão, Ilha da Marchantaria, Manaus. Após a captura os peixes foram levados ao laboratório de campo, para a remoção do conteúdo do trato digestório, de onde foram retiradas 200 sementes para o experimento. As sementes do controle foram retiradas de frutos maduros. A germinação e emissão da radícula foram controladas diariamente. Neste estudo verificou-se que a principal fonte de alimento de T. angulatus foram frutos e sementes de espécies da várzea. O desempenho germinativo das sementes de B. corymbosa após a passagem pelo trato digestório de T. angulatus foi de 88,5% e do controle 95%. Os Índices de Velocidade de Germinação (IVG) das sementes do trato digestório e do controle apresentaram diferenças significativas, porém, a passagem destas pelo intestino de T. angulatus não alterou a sua viabilidade. Assim, T. angulatus é um dos agentes dispersores de B. corymbosa, contribuindo com a distribuição desta espécie nas florestas de várzea da Amazônia Central.
Óleo de andiroba: processo tradicional da extração, uso e aspectos sociais no estado do Amazonas, Brasil
Authors: Mendonça Andreza P. , Ferraz Isolde Dorothea Kossmann
Published: February 2008

O processo tradicional de extração do óleo das sementes de andiroba foi levantado em três municípios (Anamã, Manacapuru e Silves) no Estado do Amazonas. Em 1992 e 2004, foi aplicado um questionário a 38 extratoras. Sementes das duas espécies de andiroba (Carapa procera D.C. e Carapa guianensis Aubl.) foram utilizadas como matéria prima. O processo tradicional é complexo, demora cerca de dois meses e pode ser dividido em três etapas: 1. A coleta, seleção de sementes boas e um primeiro armazenamento (3-15 dias). 2. O preparo da massa pelo cozimento das sementes em água (1-3 horas), um segundo período de armazenamento (até 20 dias) e finalizada pela retirada da casca e o amassamento das amêndoas. 3. A extração do óleo (até 30 dias), pelo gotejamento colocando a massa sobre uma superfície inclinada. Óleo extraído na sombra foi considerado de melhor qualidade do que no sol, porém o processo é mais demorado. Uma segunda extração com a prensa ("tipiti"), usada na fabricação de farinha, foi raramente empregada. Verificaram-se pequenas variações entre os procedimentos das extratoras, aparentemente com conseqüências na rentabilidade e na qualidade do óleo. Na primeira e segunda etapa da extração participaram membros da família e/ou vizinhos, ao contrário da etapa final, realizada por uma única mulher. Enquanto, transmissão do conhecimento tradicional, em geral, costuma passar de geração por geração pela oralidade e observação, este estudo revelou, que os jovens não participam mais da extração. Fato, que no futuro próximo, pode causar a perda de conhecimento em relação à extração do óleo de andiroba pelo método tradicional.
PKO: alternative method for isolating mycobacteria from sputum
Authors: Salem Julia Ignez , Carvalho Clarice Maia , Ogusku Mauricio Morishi , Maia Rosália , Ruffino-Netto Antonio
Published: February 2008

We elaborated an alternative culture method, which we denominated PKO (initials in tribute of respect to Petroff, Kudoh and Ogawa), for isolating Mycobacterium tuberculosis from sputum for diagnosis of pulmonary tuberculosis (TB), and to compare its performance with the Swab and Petroff methods. For the technique validation, sputum samples from patients suspected of pulmonary TB cases were examined by acid-fast microscopy (direct and concentrated smear), PKO, Swab and Petroff methods. We found that Petroff and PKO methods have parity in the effectiveness of M. tuberculosis isolation. However, by the PKO method, 65% of isolated strains were detected in a period of £15 days, while by the Petroff method the best detection was in an interval of 16-29 days (71%). In positive smear samples, the average time of PKO isolation is only superior to the one related for Bactec 460TB. In conclusion, the exclusion of the neutralization stage of pH in the PKO reduces the manipulation of the samples, diminishes the execution time of the culture according to the Petroff method and facilitates the qualification of professionals involved in the laboratorial diagnosis of Tuberculosis.
Espécie nova de Euphyllodromia Shelford, 1908 do estado de Rondônia, Brasil e nova ocorrência de E. jugata Rehn, 1928 (Blattaria, Blattellidae)
Authors: Lopes Sonia Maria , Oliveira Edivar Heeren de , Araújo Maria Carmosina de
Published: February 2008

Euphyllodromiarondonensis sp. nov. é descrita do Estado de Rondônia, Brasil, com base na genitália do macho. É assinalada uma nova ocorrência para E. jugata Rehn, 1928, coletada em ninho de vespas no estado do Acre.
Espécie nova de Xestoblatta (Blattaria, Blattellidae) do Estado de Santa Catarina, Brasil
Authors: Lopes Sonia Maria , Oliveira Edivar Heeren de
Published: February 2008

Xestoblatta insularis sp. nov. é descrita com base nas placas genitais, estruturas genitais do macho e na modificação do sétimo tergito abdominal. Xestoblatta Hebard, 1916 é registrado pela primeira vez no sul do Brasil.
A comunidade de abelhas (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) em áreas florestais do Parque Estadual de Itapuã (Viamão, RS): diversidade, abundância relativa e atividade sazonal
Authors: Truylio Betânia , Harter-Marques Birgit
Published: February 2008

A comunidade de abelhas (Hymenoptera, Apoidea) foi estudada no Parque Estadual do Itapuã, município de Viamão, no que diz respeito à diversidade, abundância relativa e atividade sazonal. As abelhas foram coletadas sobre as flores em duas áreas florestais, durante dois dias consecutivos por área, quinzenalmente, das 8 h às 18 h. No total, foram capturadas 3.306 abelhas pertencentes a 95 espécies das cinco famílias ocorrentes no Brasil. Dentre elas, Apidae foi a família mais abundante (2.860 indivíduos) e mais diversificada (36 espécies), seguida de Halictidae com 308 indivíduos e 26 espécies. Comparações realizadas com a fauna de abelhas de outras comunidades revelaram uma baixa diversidade na região estudada. Representantes de Apidae e Halictidae foram encontrados o ano todo nas flores, com uma redução gradual de atividade em março e abril quando foi registrado o menor índice de precipitação e temperaturas mais altas do ano.
Breeding activity of Scinax centralis (Anura, Hylidae) in Central Brazil
Authors: Alcantara Mariana B. , Lima Leôncio P. , Bastos Rogério P.
Published: February 2008

From January, 1997 to April, 1998, we studied breeding activity in a population of Scinax centralis Pombal & Bastos, 1996, in the state of Goiás, inside the Cerrado Biome, Brazil. The behavior of males and females in the choruses, the relationships between environmental variables and the presence of individuals, the spatial distribution pattern, amplexus and clutches were analyzed. The breeding season occurred from November to May. The majority of males began to call when they entered the chorus; they were defending their calling sites against other males. We found a positive correlation between the number of females and males in the choruses, but no significant correlation was observed between the operational sexual ratio (OSR, number of reproducing females/number of reproducing males) and the number of calling males. OSR was highly male-biased; on average, there were 40 males for each female. The presence of individuals was positively correlated with air temperature of two previous days and negatively correlated with rainfall on the observation day. Generally, males were non-randomly distributed and satellite males were observed. Females were larger and heavier than males. Egg number, but not diameter of the egg, was correlated with the female size.
O conflito como realidade e desafio cultural no exercício da gerência do enfermeiro
Authors: Prochnow Adelina Giacomelli , Leite Joséte Luzia , Erdmann Alacoque Lorenzini , Trevizan Maria Auxiliadora
Published: February 2008

O exercício da gerência do enfermeiro é permeado de conflitos que podem ser interpretados pelos referenciais de cultura. O presente estudo tem como objetivo denotar especificidades culturais, analisadas segundo a Teoria Interpretativa da Cultura de Geertz, que se expressam como conflitos no âmbito da gerência do enfermeiro num Hospital Universitário. Os resultados denotam a incorporação de elementos ideológicos e de mecanismos de controle e de poder, que manifestam sua origem na forma de organização do trabalho. Percebe-se a efetivação de políticas alicerçadas em valores da própria profissão. As práticas exercidas destacam uma construção cultural que elucida algumas compreensões dos processos cognitivos, sociais e comportamentais, pois estes organizam as interpretações e as respostas para os eventos da prática gerencial do enfermeiro. Os resultados deste estudo apontam para a importância da cultura organizacional no exercício da gerência na enfermagem diante das incertezas laborais, na complexidade do ambiente hospitalar
Dialética do modo de vida de portadores de hipertensão arterial: o objetivo e subjetivo
Authors: Machado Leise Rodrigues Carrijo , Car Marcia Regina
Published: February 2008

Procurou-se compreender o modo de vida de portadores de hipertensão arterial assistidos por uma unidade do Programa de Saúde da Família, sob o referencial teórico-metodológico do materialismo histórico e dialético. As onze entrevistas realizadas com indivíduos hipertensos foram submetidas ao procedimento de análise de discurso, revelando temas da realidade social da vida cotidiana. As categorias empíricas identificadas crenças, sentimentos, além do individual, controle e descontrole pressórico e causas da hipertensão arterial, foram analisadas diante de categorias dialéticas o subjetivo e o objetivo e processo saúde-doença-cuidado. A vida cotidiana revelou contradições quanto ao tratamento necessário e a doença que não é assumida como doença; necessidade de modificações em hábitos e valores humanos que se contrapõem a essas modificações; impossibilidade concreta de controle dos níveis pressóricos decorrentes de situações do modo de vida como o nervosismo e problemas familiares. A Enfermagem precisa rever o modo de cuidado da pessoa com adoecimento crônico.
Validação do Inventário de Atitudes frente à Dor Crônica - profissionais
Authors: Garcia Dayse Maioli , Pimenta Cibele Andrucioli de Mattos , Cruz Diná de Almeida Lopes Monteiro da
Published: February 2008

Crenças influem no modo de as pessoas interpretarem os eventos e se conduzirem frente a eles. O objetivo deste estudo foi validar instrumento para identificar as crenças/atitudes de profissionais de saúde frente à dor crônica. O Inventário de Atitudes frente à Dor-Profissionais, adaptado do Inventário de Atitudes frente à Dor-Breve (IAD-Breve) utilizado para doentes , foi respondido por 75 profissionais de Centros de Dor (idade média = 42,8 anos; tempo médio após graduação = 16 anos; médicos = 58,7% e fisioterapeutas = 42,7%; com especialização com maior grau de formação = 42,7% e mestrado/doutorado = 26,7%). O IAD-Profissionais foi validado com 20 itens e a análise fatorial con-firmou 6 domínios (emoção, controle, incapacidade, solicitude, cura médica e dano físico). A confiabilidade dos domínios variou entre 0,567 a 0,807 (alfa de Cronbach). Disponibiliza-se instrumento que auxiliará na organização de ações educativas.