bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and radiographic outcomes of the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis with segmental pedicle screws and combined local autograft and allograft bone for spinal fusion: a retrospective case series
Authors: Yang Xiaoming , Xu Hongguang , Li Ming , Gu Suxi , Fang Xiutong , Wang Jingjie , Ni Jianqiang , Wu Dajiang
Published: July 2010

Background

High morbidity has been reported with iliac crest bone graft harvesting; however, donor bone is typically necessary for posterior spinal fusion. Autograft bone combined with allograft may reduce the morbidity associated with iliac crest bone harvesting and improve the fusion rate. Our aim in this study was to determine the presence of complications, pseudarthrosis, non-union, and infection using combined in situ local autograft bone and freeze-dried cancellous allograft bone in patients undergoing posterior spinal fusion for the treatment of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.

Methods

A combination of in situ local autograft bone and freeze-dried cancellous allograft blocks were used in 50 consecutive patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis treated by posterior fusion and Moss Miami pedicle screw instrumentation. Results were assessed clinically and radiographically and quality of life and functional outcome was evaluated by administration of a Chinese version of the SRS-22 survey.

Results

There were 41 female and 9 male patients included for analysis with an average age of 14.7 years (range, 12-17). All patients had a minimum follow-up of 18 months (range, 18 to 40 months). The average preoperative Cobb angle was 49.8° (range, 40° to 86°). The average number of levels fused was 9.8 (range, 6-15). Patients had a minimum postoperative follow-up of 18 months. At final follow-up, the average Cobb angle correction was 77.8% (range, 43.4 to 92.5%). There was no obvious loss in the correction, and the average loss of correction was 1.1° (range, 0° to 4°). There was no pseudarthrosis and no major complications.

Conclusions

In situ autograft bone combined with allograft bone may be a promising method enhances spinal fusion in AIS treated with pedicle screw placement. By eliminating the need for iliac crest bone harvesting, significant morbidity may be avoided.
Bendiocarb, a potential alternative against pyrethroid resistant Anopheles gambiae in Benin, West Africa
Authors: Akogbéto Martin C , Padonou Gil Germain , Gbénou Dina , Irish Seth , Yadouleton Anges
Published: July 2010

Background

Anopheles gambiae, the main malaria vector in Benin has developed high level of resistance to pyrethroid insecticides, which is a serious concern to the future use of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN) and indoor residual spraying (IRS). In this context, one of the pathways available for malaria vector control would be to investigate alternative classes of insecticides with different mode of action than that of pyrethroids. The goal of this study was to evaluate under field conditions the efficacy of a carbamate (bendiocarb) and an organophosphate (fenitrothion) against pyrethroid-resistant An. gambiae s.s.

Methods

Wild populations and females from laboratory colonies of five days old An. gambiae were bio-assayed during this study. Two pyrethroids (deltamethrin and alphacypermethrin), an organophosphate (fenitrothion), a carbamate (bendiocarb) and a mixture of an organophosphate (chlorpyriphos + a pyrethroid deltamethrin) were compared in experimental huts as IRS treatments. Insecticides were applied in the huts using a hand-operated compression sprayer. The deterrency, exophily, blood feeding rate and mortality induced by these insecticides against An. gambiae were compared to the untreated control huts.

Results

Deltamethrin, alphacypermethrin and bendiocarb treatment significantly reduced mosquito entry into the huts (p < 0.05) compared to untreated huts. Blood feeding rates in huts treated with fenitrothion and the mixture chlorpyriphos/deltamethrin were reduced from 10.95% respectively to 3.7% and 4.47% three months after treatment and from 10.20% to 4.4% and 2.04% four months after treatment. Exophily rates in huts with deltamethrin, alphacypermethrin and the mixture chlorpyriphos/deltamethrin were significantly higher than in the huts with fenitrothion. Deltamethrin and alphacypermethrin had the lowest mortality rate while fenitrothion killed 100% of An. gambiae (in the first month) and 77.8% (in the fourth month). Bendiocarb and the mixture chlorpyriphos/deltamethrin mortality rates ranged from 97.9 to 100% the first month and 77.7-88% the third month respectively.

Conclusion

After four months, fenitrothion, bendiocarb and the mixture chlorpyriphos/deltamethrin performed effectively against pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles. These results showed that bendiocarb could be recommended as an effective insecticide for use in IRS operations in Benin, particularly as the mixture chlorpyriphos/deltamethrin does not have WHOPES authorization and complaints were mentioned by the sleepers about the safety and smell of fenitrothion.
Using variable importance measures from causal inference to rank risk factors of schistosomiasis infection in a rural setting in China
Authors: Sudat Sylvia EK , Carlton Elizabeth J , Seto Edmund YW , Spear Robert C , Hubbard Alan E
Published: July 2010

Background

Schistosomiasis infection, contracted through contact with contaminated water, is a global public health concern. In this paper we analyze data from a retrospective study reporting water contact and schistosomiasis infection status among 1011 individuals in rural China. We present semi-parametric methods for identifying risk factors through a comparison of three analysis approaches: a prediction-focused machine learning algorithm, a simple main-effects multivariable regression, and a semi-parametric variable importance (VI) estimate inspired by a causal population intervention parameter.

Results

The multivariable regression found only tool washing to be associated with the outcome, with a relative risk of 1.03 and a 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.01-1.05. Three types of water contact were found to be associated with the outcome in the semi-parametric VI analysis: July water contact (VI estimate 0.16, 95% CI 0.11-0.22), water contact from tool washing (VI estimate 0.88, 95% CI 0.80-0.97), and water contact from rice planting (VI estimate 0.71, 95% CI 0.53-0.96). The July VI result, in particular, indicated a strong association with infection status - its causal interpretation implies that eliminating water contact in July would reduce the prevalence of schistosomiasis in our study population by 84%, or from 0.3 to 0.05 (95% CI 78%-89%).

Conclusions

The July VI estimate suggests possible within-season variability in schistosomiasis infection risk, an association not detected by the regression analysis. Though there are many limitations to this study that temper the potential for causal interpretations, if a high-risk time period could be detected in something close to real time, new prevention options would be opened. Most importantly, we emphasize that traditional regression approaches are usually based on arbitrary pre-specified models, making their parameters difficult to interpret in the context of real-world applications. Our results support the practical application of analysis approaches that, in contrast, do not require arbitrary model pre-specification, estimate parameters that have simple public health interpretations, and apply inference that considers model selection as a source of variation.
Concerns regarding hepatitis B vaccination and post-vaccination test among Brazilian dentists
Authors: Resende Vera Lúcia S , Abreu Mauro Henrique G , Paiva Saul M , Teixeira Rosângela , Pordeus Isabela A
Published: July 2010

Background

Hepatitis B infection is the major cause of acute and chronic liver disease, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma worldwide and has long been recognized as an occupational hazard among dentists. The aim of the present study was to examine factors associated to the self-reporting of hepatitis B vaccination and immunization status among dentists working in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was carried out with 1302 dentists in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. After signing a term of informed consent, the participants answered a structured questionnaire on their knowledge regarding their vaccination and immunization status against hepatitis B. Data on demographic, behavioural and occupational exposure aspects were also collected through questionnaires.

Results

The results revealed that 73.8% of the dentists reported having received three doses of the vaccine. Multivariate analysis revealed that gender (p = 0.006), use of individual protective equipment (p = 0.021), history of blood transfusion (p = 0.024) and history of illicit drug use (p = 0.013) were independently associated with vaccination against hepatitis B. Only 14.8% had performed a post-vaccination test. The use of individual protective equipment (p = 0.038), dentists who asked patients about hepatitis during dental treatment (p < 0.001), a family history of hepatitis B (p = 0.003) and work experience (p < 0.05) were independently associated with the post-vaccination test.

Conclusions

Although there were a large number of vaccinated dentists in Belo Horizonte, the percentage was less than what was expected, as Brazil offers the National Program of Viral Hepatitis Vaccination, which provides free hepatitis B vaccinations to all healthcare workers. Despite being part of a high risk group for contamination, most of the dentists did not know their immunization status.
Egress of HSV-1 capsid requires the interaction of VP26 and a cellular tetraspanin membrane protein
Authors: Wang Lei , Liu Longding , Che Yanchun , Wang Lichun , Jiang Li , Dong Chenghong , Zhang Ying , Li Qihan
Published: July 2010

HSV-1 viral capsid maturation and egress from the nucleus constitutes a self-controlled process of interactions between host cytoplasmic membrane proteins and viral capsid proteins. In this study, a member of the tetraspanin superfamily, CTMP-7, was shown to physically interact with HSV-1 protein VP26, and the VP26-CTMP-7 complex was detected both in vivo and in vitro. The interaction of VP26 with CTMP-7 plays an essential role in normal HSV-1 replication. Additionally, analysis of a recombinant virus HSV-1-UG showed that mutating VP26 resulted in a decreased viral replication rate and in aggregation of viral mutant capsids in the nucleus. Together, our data support the notion that biological events mediated by a VP26 - CTMP-7 interaction aid in viral capsid enveloping and egress from the cell during the HSV-1 infectious process.
Technical Advance: The rat aorta contains resident mononuclear phagocytes with proliferative capacity and proangiogenic properties
Authors: Zorzi Penelope , Aplin Alfred C , Smith Kelly D , Nicosia Roberto F
Published: July 2010

Methods to target/isolate aorta resident immunocytes and study their angiogenic behavior.

Angiogenesis in the aortic ring model is preceded by activation of the immune system and impaired by ablation of adventitial macrophages. Treatment of aortic cultures with M-CSF induced extensive periaortic outgrowth of CD45+ CD68+ mononuclear cells with ultrastructural features of macrophages and DCs. Periaortic lysis of collagen caused many CD45+ CD68+ cells to attach to the bottom of the culture dish. Lifting the collagen gels left behind patches of CD45+ CD68+ cells, which focally organized into branching cords. These cells also expressed CD14, CD169, F4/80, and α-SMA but not CD31, vWF, desmin, or CD163. DNA synthesis studies showed that M-CSF-stimulated cells were actively proliferating. Aortic patch cells showed phagocytic properties and responded to IL-4 and GM-CSF by expressing MHC II, differentiating into DCs, and forming multinucleated giant cells. They also stimulated angiogenesis and VEGF production in aortic ring cultures. This study demonstrates that the rat aorta contains a distinct subset of immature immunocytes capable of proliferating, differentiating into macrophages and DCs, and stimulating angiogenesis. Isolation of these cells in patches from M-CSF-stimulated aortic rings provides a reproducible system to study the biology and angiogenic role of the resident immune system of the aortic wall.
Role of immune-regulatory cells in skin pathology
Authors: Ilkovitch Dan
Published: July 2010

The skin harbors a complex and unique immune system that protects against various pathologies, such as infection and cancer. Although many of the mechanisms of immune activation in the skin have been investigated, it is likewise important to uncover the immune-regulatory components that limit effective immunity or prevent autoimmunity. Several cell populations are involved in this immune-regulatory function, including CD4+ T cells that coexpress the transcription factor Foxp3, known as Tregs, and cells with immune-regulatory function known as myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). This review focuses on the role that immune-regulatory cells, such as MDSCs and Tregs, play in cutaneous pathology, such as malignancy, psoriasis, dermatitis, burn wounds, and transplantation. Although their depletion may serve to augment immunity, expansion of these cells may be used to suppress excessive immune reactions. These cells are attractive, therapeutic targets for various conditions and thus, deserve further exploration.
Coping With the Oncology Workforce Shortage: Transitioning Oncology Follow-Up Care to Primary Care Providers
Authors: Debono David
Published: July 2010

An effective response to the impending shortage of oncology services will require different actions from governmental bodies, academic cancer center leaders, medical societies, and community oncology providers.
Selective brain cooling and its vascular basis in diving seals
Authors: Blix Arnoldus Schytte , Walløe Lars , Messelt Edward B. , Folkow Lars P.
Published: July 2010

Brain (Tbrain), intra-aorta (Taorta), latissimus dorsi muscle (Tm) and rectal temperature (Tr) were measured in harp (Pagophilus groenlandicus) and hooded (Cystophora cristata) seals during experimental dives in 4°C water. The median brain cooling was about 1°C during 15 min diving, but in some cases it was as much as 2.5°C. Cooling rates were slow for the first couple of minutes, but increased significantly after about 5 min of diving. The onset of cooling sometimes occurred before the start of the dive, confirming that the cooling is under cortical control, like the rest of the diving responses. Taorta also fell significantly, and was always lower than Tbrain, while Tm was fairly stable during dives. Detailed studies of the vascular anatomy of front flippers revealed that brachial arterial blood can be routed either through flipper skin capillaries for nutritive purposes and return through sophisticated vascular heat exchangers to avoid heat loss to the environment, or, alternatively, through numerous arterio-venous shunts in the skin and return by way of large superficial veins, which then carry cold blood to the heart. In the latter situation the extent to which the brain is cooled is determined by the ratio of carotid to brachial arterial blood flow, and water temperature, and the cooling is selective in that only those organs that are circulated will be cooled. It is concluded that Tbrain is actively down-regulated during diving, sometimes by as much as 2.5°C, whereby cerebral oxygen requirements may be reduced by as much as 25% during extended dives.
Eu(TTA)3phen Nanobelts with Enhanced Luminescent Properties Prepared by Self-assembly
Authors: Guan Meili , Ma Dekun , Liu Sensen , Yang Dongpeng , Jiang Jinglu , Huang Shaoming
Published: July 2010

Crystalline Eu(TTA)3phen (TTA is the conjugated base of 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone, phen represents 1,10-phenanthroline) nanobelts were first prepared by solution-phase self-assembly. It was found that the concentration of Eu(TTA)3phen and solvent could impose obvious effect on the morphologies of the resultant products. The as-prepared crystalline Eu(TTA)3phen nanobelts show enhanced photoluminescence (PL) intensity over that of Eu(TTA)3phen molecules dissolved in tetrahydrofuran (THF) at the same concentration.
Synthesis of MgSiN2 Cuboids by a Solid-state Reaction
Authors: Li Yajun , Xu Liqiang , Wang Liancheng , Ju Zhicheng , Yang Lishan , Xing Zheng , Qian Yitai
Published: July 2010

MgSiN2 cuboids were prepared using Si, Mg, and NaN3 powders as reactants in autoclaves at 350–500 °C for 12 h. SEM, TEM, and HRTEM images reveal that the product is composed of crystalline MgSiN2 cuboids. The synthesis parameters such as the ratio of the reactants, temperature, and reaction time were investigated. It is found that using appropriate excess of Mg and NaN3 favors the formation of MgSiN2.
Preparation of Loose-fit Polyrotaxane Composed of β-Cyclodextrin and Poly(ethylene glycol) Derivatives through the Slipping–Expanding Protocol
Authors: Katoono Ryo , Kobayashi Yuichiro , Yui Nobuhiko
Published: July 2010

At an elevated temperature, a methylated β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) derivative was self-assembled onto a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) chain attached to bulky end groups (slipping), and entrapped through a chemical modification at the end groups (expanding), leading to an interlocked species. The preparation of a loose-fit polyrotaxane composed of β-CD and PEG was demonstrated as the slipping–expanding protocol.
Rhenium-catalyzed Regioselective Synthesis of Phenol Derivatives from 1,3-Diesters and Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Kuninobu Yoichiro , Iwanaga Takashi , Nishi Mitsumi , Takai Kazuhiko
Published: July 2010

Treatment of malonates without a substituent at the active methylene moiety with terminal alkynes gave salicylates regioselectively. In contrast, when malonates bearing a substituent at the active methylene moiety were used, cyclic β-keto esters were generated regioselectively. Treatment of the formed cyclic β-keto esters with In(OTf)3 gave phenol derivatives via decarboxylation.
Trends in Diabetes Medication Use and Prevalence of Geriatric Syndromes in Older Mexican Americans from 1993/1994 to 2004/2005
Authors: Beard Holly A , Markides Kyriakos S , Ghatrif Majd AI , Kuo Yong-Fang , Raji Mukaila A
Published: July 2010

Background:

New diabetes medications introduced over the last decade have fed to changes in diabetes treatment recommendations for the increasing number of elderly patients with diabetes. It is, however, not clear whether these changes are accompanied by changes in prevalence of comorbid geriatric syndromes.

Objective:

To determine whether changes in diabetes treatment between 1993/1994 and 2004/2005 were accompanied by changes in prevalence of geriatric syndromes in Mexican Americans aged 75 years and older.

Methods:

Data from the Hispanic Established Population for the Epidemiologic Study of the Elderly were used. Participants aged 75 years and older with diabetes in 1993/1994 (n = 264) and in 2004/2005 (n = 324; new cohort added in 2004/2005) were included in the analyses. Medication use and geriatric syndromes prevalence rates were estimated and compared using descriptive and univariate statistics for continuous variables and contingency tables (χ2) for categorical variables.

Results:

Older Mexican Americans with diabetes in 2004/2005 were more likely to be taking 2 or more oral diabetes medications than were those in the 1993/1994 cohort; most of the drugs taken by the 2004/2005 cohort were the newly introduced oral diabetes medications. Use of insulin as sole diabetes therapy decreased from 20.3% in the 1993/1994 cohort to 7.5% in the 2004/2005 cohort. The 2004/2005 cohort reported longer diabetes duration and higher prevalence of obesity and hypertension; they were also more likely than the 1993/1994 cohort to have more geriatric syndromes: pain, arthritis, incontinence, and self-reported activities of daily living disability. No significant differences exist between the 2 cohorts in objective measures of cognitive and physical function.

Conclusions:

Older Mexican Americans with diabetes in 2004/2005 used more of the newer diabetes medications and less insulin compared to the 1993/1994 cohort. The prevalence rates of geriatric syndromes were higher in the 2004/2005 cohort. Our findings suggest that screening for and treating comorbid geriatric syndromes is increasingly important for optimal geriatric diabetes care.
Worsening Heart Failure in the Setting of Dronedarone Initiation
Authors: Coons James C , Plauger Kara M , Seybert Amy L , Sokos George G
Published: July 2010

Objective:

To describe a challenging patient case in which dronedarone was selected for a patient with atrial fibrillation and heart failure; the drug may have been associated with worsening heart failure, leading to acute renal and hepatic failure.

Case Summary:

A 47-year-old male with a history of heart failure with New York Heart Association class III—IV symptoms presented to our institution with ventricular fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia storm. Torsade de pointes secondary to a combination of doletilide and hypokalemia was determined to be the etiology. Upon stabilization, the patient was initiated on dronedarone 400 mg orally twice daily by the electro physiology service for atrial fibrillation. The patient had a questionable history of amkxtaroπe intolerance. By hospital day 9 (day 4 of dronedarone therapy), the patient demonstrated a clinical picture consistent with acute renal and hepatic failure possibly due to worsening heart failure. Dronedarone was discontinued on hospital day 10. He was subsequently transferred to an outside hospital where he required milrinone therapy for cardiogenic shock. Laboratory markers of renal and hepatic function improved over the remainder of his hospitalization and he was discharged on hospital day 20.

Discussion:

Dronedarone is a newly approved antiarrhythmic agent with multichannel blocking properties similar to amiodarone. Use of the Naranjo probability scale determined that this patient's worsening heart failure leading to acute renal and hepatic failure was possibly caused by dronedarone. The implication from the ANDROMEDA trial as well as our experience in this case is that dronedarone should be used cautiously in patients with heart failure and avoided in patients specifically outlined in the product labeling.

Conclusions:

This case report, to our knowledge, represents the first published postmarketing report of worsening heart failure complicated by multiorgan dysfunction in the setting of dronedarone initiation. Dronedarone use must be approached with caution in patients with a history of heart failure.
Detection of serum free light chains: the problem with antigen excess
Authors: Bosmann Markus , Kößler Jürgen , Stolz Herbert , Walter Ulrich , Knop Stefan , Steigerwald Udo
Published: July 2010

Background: In recent years, measurement of serum immunoglobulin free light chains (FLCs) has greatly facilitated diagnosis and monitoring of various plasma cells dyscrasias, including multiple myeloma. Detection of FLCs by nephelometry depends on the formation of immune complexes. However, it is known that if the antigen (free light chain) is present in great excess, non-precipitating immune complexes can be formed and be detected poorly. This may lead to inaccurate test results.

Methods: Serum samples from 91 patients were subjected prospectively to the detection of free κ and λ light chains by automated nephelometry. A standard dilution of 1:100 was paralleled by a 1:2000 dilution. In addition, samples with values below the effective range (1:100) were subjected to a 1:20 dilution in order to calculate the κ/λ ratio.

Results: Here, we report the incidence of antigen excess in a cohort of 91 patients with a high proportion of monoclonal abnormalities. A standard dilution (1:100) of free light κ chains from a patient with monoclonal immunoglobulin A κ gammopathy were missed repeatedly. In a second patient (with myeloproliferative disease and an apparent incidental FLC monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance) free λ chains were also substantially underestimated in the standard dilution. Hence, the incidence of erroneously low test results due to antigen excess was 2.20%.

Conclusions: We found a significantly higher incidence of falsely low test results due to antigen excess than reported previously. Antigen excess may result in erroneous interpretations in sera subjected to nephelometric analysis. Therefore, clinical decisions should not be based solely on a single assay, especially if FLC testing includes only one dilution of the serum sample. Instead, several parallel dilutions should be recommended for screening of patients.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1419–22.
A new phenolic glucoside and flavonoids from the bark of Eucommia ulmoides Oliv.
Authors: Yao Li-Na , Su Yan-Fang , Yin Zhao-Ye , Qin Nan , Li Tian-Xiang , Si Chuan-Ling , Liu Er-Wei , Gao Xiu-Mei
Published: July 2010

Phytochemical investigation of Eucommia ulmoides bark led to the isolation of a new phenolic glucoside which was named eucophenoside. The structure of eucophenoside was elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data analysis. In addition, seven known flavonoids were reported for the first time to be present in the bark of E. ulmoides: wogonin, oroxylin A, baicalein, 4,2′,4′-trihydroxychalcone, (αR)-α,4,2′,4′-tetrahydroxydihydrochalcone, (αR)-α-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-4,2′,4′-trihydroxydihydrochalcone, and wogonoside.
On the problem of control the composition of material in the binary alloy solidification process
Authors: Petrova Anna G.
Published: July 2010

In a framework of classical one-dimensional binary alloy solidification problem with zero diffusion coefficient in the solid phase the inverse problem is posed and considered. The problem consists in finding of the temperature regime at the outer boundary of domain when the final distribution of admixture in solidified part is known. In the cases when the desired concentration is linear function of space coordinate the boundary-value problem for the system of equations can be disjoin and the inverse problem can be reduced to the successive solving of three problems. First one is a “supercooled” Stefan problem [Fasano, Primicherio, Quart. Appl. Math. 38: 439–460, 1981,Petrova, Tarzia, Turner, Advances in Math. Sciences and Applications, Gakkotosho 4: 35–50, 1994], the second one is an initial-boundary problem for heat equation in the domain with known moving boundary, and the last one is a non-characteristic Cauchy problem [Alifanov, Inverse Problems of Heat Exchange (in Russian), Nauka, 1988]. We investigate this last problem in two aspects – classical “exact” and extremal, as a problem of minimizing a functional. Besides, we consider the self-similar version of the inverse problem and construct the exact solution to the inverse problem.
Shadowed by Images: Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and the Art of Surveillance
Authors: Ravetto-Biagioli Kriss
Published: July 2010

This essay explores how the large-scale video-installation art of Rafael Lozano-Hemmer uses the illusion of confrontation, contact, and interactivity to create what many spectators describe as an uncanny experience. Like Freud's uncanny, Lozano-Hemmer's work undermines stable subject positions and thus the possibility of the specific symbolic meaning for the installation. The ungrounding of subjectivity does not necessarily point to the subjects' own absence or lack of wholeness, nor to its own possible obsolescence. Rather, it points to the disjuncture between recognizing and reacting to the fact that we are being followed (by images, interfaces, and tracking devices), and recognizing and reacting to the fact that these devices already anticipate our movements, desires, and trajectories. Lozano-Hemmer's work asks about how surveillance systems, global capital, and digital technologies have reconfigured notions of embodiment and public space, and of the public itself.
Authority, Authorship, and Audience: Enlightenment Models for a Critical Public
Authors: Mücke Dorothea Von
Published: July 2010

This essay analyzes programmatic texts by Lessing and Kant in terms of how they influence the public sphere of the Enlightenment. Sharing a programmatic commitment to enlightenment as "the exit from our self-imposed tutelage," Lessing and Kant understood the enlightenment process as one that cannot be taught or imposed by some authority from above, nor can it ever be fully accomplished. For both philosophers, enlightenment calls for specific framing conditions that have to do with the abolishment of censorship, on the one hand, and with the recruitment of an active, critical audience, on the other.
Proteomics and the search for biomarkers of female reproductive diseases
Authors: Meehan Katie L , Rainczuk Adam , Salamonsen Lois A , Stephens Andrew N
Published: July 2010

Over the past decade, high-throughput proteomics technologies have evolved considerably and have become increasingly more commonly applied to the investigation of female reproductive diseases. Proteomic approaches facilitate the identification of new disease biomarkers by comparing the abundance of hundreds of proteins simultaneously to find those specific to a particular clinical condition. Some of the best studied areas of female reproductive biology applying proteomics include gynaecological cancers, endometriosis and endometrial infertility. This review will discuss the progress that has been made in these areas and will highlight some of the emerging technologies that promise to contribute to better understanding of the female reproductive disease.
Association Mapping of Quantitative Disease Resistance in a Natural Population of Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda L.)
Authors: Quesada Tania , Gopal Vikneswaran , Cumbie W Patrick , Eckert Andrew J , Wegrzyn Jill L , Neale David B , Goldfarb Barry , Huber Dudley A , Casella George , Davis John M
Published: July 2010

Genetic resistance to disease incited by necrotrophic pathogens is not well understood in plants. Whereas resistance is often quantitative, there is limited information on the genes that underpin quantitative variation in disease resistance. We used a population genomic approach to identify genes in loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) that are associated with resistance to pitch canker, a disease incited by the necrotrophic pathogen Fusarium circinatum. A set of 498 largely unrelated, clonally propagated genotypes were inoculated with F. circinatum microconidia and lesion length, a measure of disease resistance, data were collected 4, 8, and 12 weeks after inoculation. Best linear unbiased prediction was used to adjust for imbalance in number of observations and to identify highly susceptible and highly resistant genotypes (“tails”). The tails were reinoculated to validate the results of the full population screen. Significant associations were detected in 10 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (out of 3938 tested). As hypothesized for genes involved in quantitative resistance, the 10 SNPs had small effects and proposed roles in basal resistance, direct defense, and signal transduction. We also discovered associated genes with unknown function, which would have remained undetected in a candidate gene approach constrained by annotation for disease resistance or stress response.
Odorant Receptor Polymorphisms and Natural Variation in Olfactory Behavior in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Rollmann Stephanie M , Wang Ping , Date Priya , West Steven A , Mackay Trudy F C , Anholt Robert R H
Published: July 2010

Animals perceive and discriminate among a vast array of sensory cues in their environment. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to individual variation in behavioral responses to these cues. Here, we asked to what extent sequence variants in six Drosophila melanogaster odorant receptor (Or) genes are associated with variation in behavioral responses to benzaldehyde by sequencing alleles from a natural population. Sequence analyses showed signatures of deviations from neutrality for Or42b and Or85f, and linkage disequilibrium analyses showed a history of extensive recombination between polymorphic markers for all six Or genes. We identified polymorphisms in Or10a, Or43a, and Or67b that were significantly associated with variation in response to benzaldehyde. To verify these associations, we repeated the analyses with an independent set of behavioral measurements of responses to a structurally similar odorant, acetophenone. Association profiles for both odorants were similar with many polymorphisms and haplotypes associated with variation in responsiveness to both odorants. Some polymorphisms, however, were associated with one, but not the other odorant. We also observed a correspondence between behavioral response to benzaldehyde and differences in Or10a and Or43a expression. These results illustrate that sequence variants that arise during the evolution of odorant receptor genes can contribute to individual variation in olfactory behavior and give rise to subtle shifts in olfactory perception.
Fatores hormonais e genéticos na próstata normal e neoplásica
Authors: Carvalho-Salles Andréa B. , Tajara Eloiza Helena
Published: July 2010

Recentemente, tem sido dada muita atenção para os efeitos proliferativos dos andrógenos nas células prostáticas. Isso tem despertado grande interesse no papel desses hormônios esteróides no desenvolvimento e manutenção tanto da próstata normal quanto maligna. Entretanto, até o presente, não tem sido identificada a relação exata entre os níveis hormonais e o risco de neoplasia. O complexo andrógeno-receptor, após associação com elementos no DNA que respondem ao hormônio, promove especificamente o crescimento da glândula. Já foi reconhecido que existe uma estreita ligação entre o seu padrão de sinalização citoplasmática e aquele desencadeado pelos fatores de crescimento. Muito progresso tern sido obtido a partir do estudo dessas interações o que pode levar ao desenvolvimento de novas e eficientes abordagens terapêuticas no câncer de próstata.
Ultra-sonografia pélvica em 140 meninas normais pré e pós-puberais
Authors: Teixeira Rosimere J. , Silva Valéria C.G. , Freitas Josele R. , Henriques Jodélia L.S. , Guimarães Marília M.
Published: July 2010

Realizamos ultra-sonografia (USG) pélvica em tempo real e de alta resolução em 140 meninas normais pré e pós-puberais, entre 2 e 18 anos incompletos, para descrever as mudanças da morfologia e do tamanho do útero e dos ovários com a idade e durante o desenvolvimento puberal. Os volumes do útero (VU) e dos ovários (VO) foram calculados, a morfologia uterina foi descrita como pré-puberal (corpo/colo <1) ou não e a estrutura ovariana foi classificada como homogênea (até 3 cistos < 9mm), microcística (4-10 cistos < 9mm), multicística (+10 cistos < 9mm), policística (+10 cistos e estroma hiperecogênico) e folicular (pelo menos uma área cística ³ 9mm). Na fase pré-puberal, os volumes do útero e ovários foram de 1,0±0,7cm³ e 0,9±0,5cm³, respectivamente, mas aumentaram com a puberdade. Consideramos como normal pré-puberal os volumes até 2DP da média (VU £ 2,5cm³ e VO £ 2,0cm³) e como sinal de puberdade os volumes maiores que 4DP da média pré-puberal (VU ³ 4cm³ e VO ³ 3cm³). A morfologia uterina, a presença de eco endometrial e a freqüência das classes ovarianas dependem do status puberal (p<0,005). Os ovários homogêneos foram encontrados somente em pré-puberes (52%); a classe microcística foi a mais comum no início (Tanner II-III, 51%) e a multicística no final da puberdade (Tanner IV-V, 47%); a estrutura policística foi achada em todos os estádios puberais (4-11%) e a folicular (6%) apenas na puberdade. O útero e os ovários aumentam progressivamente durante a infância e a puberdade. O desenvolvimento normal do ovário é contínuo e dinâmico. Ainda não é claro se a presença de ovários policísticos na infância possa representar uma predisposição futura para a síndrome dos ovários policísticos.
Caracterização morfocultural, biossíntese de autoindutor e formação de biofilme por rizobactérias de hortaliças
Authors: Pinton Rachel , Dias Anelise , Xavier Terezinha Ferreira , Rouws Luc Felicianus Marie , Xavier Gustavo Ribeiro , Rumjanek Norma Gouvêa , Ribeiro Raul de Lucena Duarte
Published: July 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar e agrupar rizobactérias, isoladas de hortaliças, quanto à morfologia cultural, riqueza e diversidade e avaliar a biossíntese de autoindutores N-acil lactonas homoserinas (ALH) e a capacidade de formação de biofilmes. Sete estirpes também foram avaliadas quanto ao potencial de promoção de crescimento de Brassica oleraceae var. acephala em casa de vegetação. Para verificar a produção de ALH, foram realizados ensaios com Agrobacterium tumefaciens estirpe NT1 como sistema repórter. A formação de biofilme foi avaliada pelo cultivo do isolado em meio líquido. A promoção do crescimento foi avaliada após inoculação das estirpes em plantas de couve-de-folha pela determinação da produção de massa de matérias fresca e seca. A maior diversidade morfocultural foi encontrada entre as estirpes isoladas de couve-de-folha. De um total de 112 estirpes testadas, 13% foram positivas quanto à produção de ALH; de 91 estirpes, 96% foram capazes de formar biofilmes; e de 79 estirpes, 11% foram positivas para ambas as características. Foram observadas diferenças significativas na massa de matéria seca das raízes com inoculação de 10(9) UFC mL-1 da estirpe R142, que incrementou em 55% a massa de matéria seca das raízes de couve, em relação ao controle. Não há relação entre a capacidade de formar biofilme e a detecção de ALH produzidos pelas rizobactérias avaliadas.
Harinas de hojas de plantas aromáticas como fitoterapéuticos en pollos de engorda
Authors: Lara y Lara Pedro Enrique , Itzá Ortiz Mateo Fabian , Aguilar Urquiso Edgar , Sanginés García José Roberto
Published: July 2010

El objetivo del presente trabajo fue evaluar el comportamiento productivo y el rendimiento de la canal en pollos de engorda, con el uso de harina de hojas de plantas aromáticas como aditivo fitoterapéutico al 0,07% en la dieta. Fueron utilizados 280 pollitos machos de la estirpe Ross 308, de 1 a 42 días de edad, distribuidos de forma aleatoria en un diseño completamente al azar, en cuatro tratamientos y siete repeticiones con 10 pollos cada una. Las combinaciones fueron en proporción 50:50 de harina de Origanum vulgare y Piper auritum (OHS), O. vulgare y Ocimum basilicum (OA), O. basilicum y P. auritum (HSA), y un testigo con flavomicina al 4%. El grupo testigo obtuvo el mayor peso corporal (2.385 g), consumo de alimento (204 g por ave por día) y mortalidad acumulada (21,87%), al final de la prueba. No hubo diferencias con la combinación de OA (2.198 g) y HSA (2.023 g) en peso corporal y consumo de alimento. La combinación OA registró la menor (1,96) y OHS la mayor (2,44) conversión de alimento. No se encontraron diferencias en el rendimiento de la canal. La combinación al 50% de O. vulgare y O. basilicum, incluida al 0,07% en la dieta para pollos de engorda, es una alternativa como promotora del crecimiento y no altera el rendimiento de la canal.
Propriedades físico-hídricas do solo e demanda energética de haste escarificadora em Argissolo compactado
Authors: Mentges Marcelo Ivan , Reichert José Miguel , Rosa David Peres da , Vieira Davi Alexandre , Rosa Vanderleia Trevisan da , Reinert Dalvan José
Published: July 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da compactação nos atributos físico-hídricos do solo e na demanda energética da haste escarificadora, além de avaliar as propriedades físico-hídricas abaixo da profundidade de trabalho da haste. O trabalho foi conduzido em Argissolo Vermelho-Amarelo de textura francoarenosa, com os seguintes tratamentos: plantio direto por 13 anos; plantio direto por 13 anos em solo escarificado; plantio direto em solo com compactação adicional; e plantio direto em solo com compactação adicional escarificado. A compactação, ao longo da profundidade escarificada, foi verificada por meio dos dados de esforço de tração associados à haste escarificadora, obtidos com auxílio de um anel octogonal ligado a um módulo de aquisição de dados. Foram determinados densidade, porosidade total, macroporosidade, microporosidade, condutividade hidráulica saturada e resistência mecânica do solo à penetração. A compactação elevou a densidade e a resistência mecânica à penetração do solo, reduziu a porosidade total e a macroporosidade, porém sem causar efeitos significativos na microporosidade. A compactação aumentou a demanda energética da haste escarificadora em 21,64%, o que elevou os valores médios de esforço de tração de 5,33 para 6,35 kN. A escarificação não elevou o estado de compactação do solo abaixo da profundidade de trabalho da haste escarificadora, em solo francoarenoso.
Relação entre macrofauna edáfica e atributos químicos do solo em diferentes agroecossistemas
Authors: Lima Sandra Santana de , Aquino Adriana Maria de , Leite Luiz Fernando Carvalho , Velásquez Elena , Lavelle Patrick
Published: July 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do uso do solo sobre a densidade e a diversidade da macrofauna invertebrada, bem como a relação dessa com atributos químicos do solo em diferentes agroecossistemas. Foram estudados cinco agroecossistemas: sistema ecológico com três anos de adoção (SE3), sistemas agroflorestais com seis (SAF6) e dez (SAF10) anos de adoção; agricultura de corte e queima (ACQ), e floresta nativa (FN). Em cada sistema, foram coletadas aleatoriamente cinco amostras solo, em forma de blocos (25x25 cm), na profundidade de 10 cm, nas épocas seca (outubro, 2006) e chuvosa (maio, 2007). A relação entre os atributos químicos e a macrofauna edáfica, nos diferentes sistemas de uso do solo, foi determinada por meio da análise da coinércia. Maior abundância da macrofauna foi observada na época chuvosa. Os sistemas SE3, SAF6 e SAF10 apresentaram maior riqueza de espécies e índices de Shannon e Pielou, independentemente da época de coleta. O manejo agroflorestal favoreceu a ocorrência de "engenheiros do ecossistema". Os sistemas agroflorestais propiciam melhores características químicas do solo e aumentos na abundância e riqueza da macrofauna invertebrada do solo.
Eficácia da inoculação de Bradyrhizobium em pré-semeadura da soja
Authors: Zilli Jerri Édson , Campo Rubens José , Hungria Mariangela
Published: July 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da inoculação de Bradyrhizobium em pré-semeadura de soja e o efeito do tratamento das sementes com fungicidas na nodulação. Foram usados controles sem inoculação, que receberam ou não a aplicação de 200 kg ha-1 de N. A inoculação em pré-semeadura mostrou desempenho igual à inoculação padrão quanto à nodulação, produção de matéria seca, produtividade de grãos e acúmulo de nitrogênio nos tecidos e grãos da soja. Entretanto, quando as sementes foram tratadas com fungicidas, houve redução da nodulação e da produtividade.
Função ovariana de novilhas Nelore alimentadas com dieta suplementada com gordura protegida ruminal
Authors: Guardieiro Monique Mendes , Bastos Michele Ricieri , Mourão Gerson Barreto , Carrijo Luiz Henrique Dantas , Melo Eduardo de Oliveira , Rumpf Rodolfo , Sartori Roberto
Published: July 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da suplementação alimentar com gordura protegida ruminal sobre as estruturas ovarianas e sobre a concentração sérica de progesterona, em novilhas Nelore mantidas em pasto. Quarenta novilhas foram divididas em dois grupos: um suplementado com gordura protegida Megalac-E (G); e outro sem suplementação de gordura (C). O grupos foram avaliados em delineamento "crossover". Utilizaram-se dietas isoenergéticas e isoproteicas. Após 15 dias de suplementação, os animais foram submetidos a um protocolo hormonal, para avaliação da influência da suplementação com gordura no metabolismo da progesterona. Para isto, em um dia aleatório do ciclo (D0), inseriu-se um implante intravaginal de liberação de progesterona (CIDR), e aplicou-se prostaglandina F2α (PGF2α, i.m.). No D7, o implante foi retirado, e outra aplicaηão de PGF2α foi realizada. No D18, foi feita uma nova aplicaηão de PGF2α e, então, foram observados diariamente os exames ultrassonográficos ovarianos e a ocorrência de estro. Para o ensaio com progesterona, colheu-se sangue 4 dias após a inserção do implante e, novamente, 7 e 14 dias após a ovulação. A concentração de progesterona sérica no D4 foi maior no grupo G. Não houve diferença nas concentrações séricas de progesterona 7 e 14 dias após a ovulação, nem no diâmetro do folículo ovulatório, nem no volume luteal. A suplementação com Megalac-E altera o metabolismo de progesterona, mas não altera a função ovariana em novilhas zebuínas em pasto.
Dopplervelocimetria fetoplacentária em gestantes hipertensas e resultados perinatais segundo a idade gestacional
Authors: Pires Pedro , Latham Aníbal Eusébio Faúndes , Mabessone Suellene Keylla de Magalhães , Ferreira Ana de Fátima de Azevedo , Rodrigues Fabiana Gomes de Souza , Leon Janaina Souza , Ramos Juliana Limeira de Moura
Published: July 2010

OBJETIVO: Avaliar índices de pulsatilidade das artérias umbilical (IPAU) e cerebral média (IPACM) e relação do índice de pulsatilidade umbilico-cerebral (IPAU/IPACM) em fetos de gestantes hipertensas e presença de resultados perinatais adversos. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Analisamos IPAU, IPACM e IPAU/IPACM de 289 fetos de gestantes hipertensas quanto à previsão dos resultados perinatais adversos. Os resultados foram comparados sem e com ajuste pela idade gestacional. RESULTADOS: O índice de Apgar < 7 no 5º minuto foi associado com resultados alterados após o ajuste por idade gestacional. O risco para recém-nascidos pequenos para a idade gestacional aumentou em três vezes após o ajuste, com significância estatística em todos os parâmetros do Doppler. Na síndrome da hipóxia neonatal o aumento do risco ajustado pela idade gestacional foi estatisticamente significante no IPAU e IPAU/IPACM. Não houve aumento no risco de síndrome do desconforto respiratório na análise ajustada. A mortalidade perinatal e o IPAU alterado apresentaram um risco três vezes maior e foram estatisticamente significantes após o ajuste. CONCLUSÃO: Em gestantes hipertensas, o IPAU apresentou melhor correlação com os resultados perinatais do que o IPACM ou relação IPAU/IPACM. O risco de resultados adversos deve considerar a idade gestacional.
Valor preditivo positivo das categorias 3, 4 e 5 do Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS®)
Authors: Prado Gérson Luís Medina , Guerra Maria Tereza Paraguassú Martins
Published: July 2010

OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o BI-RADS® como fator preditivo de suspeição de malignidade em lesões mamárias não palpáveis nas categorias 3, 4 e 5, correlacionando as mamografias com os resultados histopatológicos através do cálculo do valor preditivo positivo do exame mamográfico. MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: Trezentas e setenta e uma pacientes encaminhadas a um serviço de referência em tratamento de câncer em Teresina, PI, para realização de exames histopatológicos em mama no período de julho de 2005 a março de 2008, por terem mamografia de categorias 3, 4 ou 5, tiveram seus exames revisados. Das 371 pacientes, 265 foram submetidas a biópsia por agulha grossa e 106, a marcação pré-cirúrgica. RESULTADOS: Em relação às mamografias, 11,32% foram classificadas como categoria 3, 76,28% como categoria 4 e 12,4% como categoria 5. Os resultados histológicos demonstraram 24% de exames positivos para malignidade. Os valores preditivos positivos das categorias 3, 4 e 5 foram, respectivamente, de 7,14%, 16,96% e 82,61%. Foram calculados os valores preditivos positivos, separadamente, para as biópsias percutâneas (7,14%, 15,76%, 76,47%) e para as marcações pré-cirúrgicas (7,14%, 20%, 100%). CONCLUSÃO: Achados malignos foram subestimados pelo laudo radiológico e houve superestimação de achados benignos, o que resultou na realização desnecessária de alguns procedimentos invasivos.