bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of effects of pioglitazone on cardiac function in patients with type 2 diabetes and evidence of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction: a tissue doppler imaging study
Authors: Naka Katerina K , Pappas Konstantinos , Papathanassiou Katerina , Papamichael Nikolaos D , Kazakos Nikolaos , Kanioglou Chryssanthi , Makriyiannis Demetrios , Katsouras Christos S , Liveris Kostas , Tsatsoulis Agathocles , Michalis Lampros K
Published: September 2010

Background

Thiazolidinediones, used for the treatment of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2), are associated with an increased incidence of heart failure. We sought to investigate the effects of pioglitazone on novel echocardiographic indices of left ventricular (LV) diastolic function in DM2 patients with LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD).

Methods

Eighty-eight asymptomatic DM2 patients on metformin and/or sulfonylureas, aged 64.5 ± 7.7 years, without known cardiovascular disease, with normal LV systolic function and evidence of LVDD were randomly assigned to pioglitazone 30 mg/day (n = 42) or an increase in dose of other oral agents (n = 39) for 6 months. All patients underwent transthoracic conventional and Tissue Doppler Imaging echocardiography at baseline and follow-up. The primary end-point was change in early diastolic velocity of the mitral annulus (E').

Results

Improvement of glycaemic control was similar in the 2 groups. A significant difference (p < 0.05) between the 2 groups was found in the treatment-induced changes in fasting insulin, the insulin resistance index HOMA, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, diastolic blood pressure (all in favor of pioglitazone) and in body weight (increase with pioglitazone). No significant changes were observed in any echocardiographic parameter in either group and did not differ between groups (p = NS for all). E' increased non-significantly and to a similar extent in both groups (p = NS).

Conclusions

In asymptomatic DM2 patients with LVDD, the addition of pioglitazone to oral conventional treatment for 6 months does not induce any adverse or favorable changes in LV diastolic or systolic function despite improvements in glycaemic control, insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, and blood pressure.
Kinome profiling of myxoid liposarcoma reveals NF-kappaB-pathway kinase activity and Casein Kinase II inhibition as a potential treatment option
Authors: Willems Stefan M , Schrage Yvonne M , Bruijn Inge H Briaire-de , Szuhai Karoly , Hogendoorn Pancras CW , Bovée Judith VMG
Published: September 2010

Background

Myxoid liposarcoma is a relatively common malignant soft tissue tumor, characterized by a (12;16) translocation resulting in a FUS-DDIT3 fusion gene playing a pivotal role in its tumorigenesis. Treatment options in patients with inoperable or metastatic myxoid liposarcoma are relatively poor though being developed and new hope is growing.

Results

Using kinome profiling and subsequent pathway analysis in two cell lines and four primary cultures of myxoid liposarcomas, all of which demonstrated a FUS-DDIT3 fusion gene including one new fusion type, we aimed at identifying new molecular targets for systemic treatment. Protein phosphorylation by activated kinases was verified by Western Blot and cell viability was measured before and after treatment of the myxoid liposarcoma cells with kinase inhibitors. We found kinases associated with the atypical nuclear factor-kappaB and Src pathways to be the most active in myxoid liposarcoma. Inhibition of Src by the small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitor dasatinib showed only a mild effect on cell viability of myxoid liposarcoma cells. In contrast, inhibition of the nuclear factor-kappaB pathway, which is regulated by the FUS-DDIT3 fusion product, in myxoid liposarcoma cells using casein kinase 2 inhibitor 4,5,6,7-tetrabromobenzotriazole (TBB) showed a significant decrease in cell viability, decreased phosphorylation of nuclear factor-kappaB pathway proteins, and caspase 3 mediated apoptosis. Combination of dasatinib and TBB showed an enhanced effect.

Conclusion

Kinases associated with activation of the atypical nuclear factor-kappaB and the Src pathways are the most active in myxoid liposarcoma in vitro and inhibition of nuclear factor-kappaB pathway activation by inhibiting casein kinase 2 using TBB, of which the effect is enhanced by Src inhibition using dasatinib, offers new potential therapeutic strategies for myxoid liposarcoma patients with advanced disease.
Modelling biochemical networks with intrinsic time delays: a hybrid semi-parametric approach
Authors: von Stosch Moritz , Peres Joana , de Azevedo Sebastião Feyo , Oliveira Rui
Published: September 2010

Background

This paper presents a method for modelling dynamical biochemical networks with intrinsic time delays. Since the fundamental mechanisms leading to such delays are many times unknown, non conventional modelling approaches become necessary. Herein, a hybrid semi-parametric identification methodology is proposed in which discrete time series are incorporated into fundamental material balance models. This integration results in hybrid delay differential equations which can be applied to identify unknown cellular dynamics.

Results

The proposed hybrid modelling methodology was evaluated using two case studies. The first of these deals with dynamic modelling of transcriptional factor A in mammalian cells. The protein transport from the cytosol to the nucleus introduced a delay that was accounted for by discrete time series formulation. The second case study focused on a simple network with distributed time delays that demonstrated that the discrete time delay formalism has broad applicability to both discrete and distributed delay problems.

Conclusions

Significantly better prediction qualities of the novel hybrid model were obtained when compared to dynamical structures without time delays, being the more distinctive the more significant the underlying system delay is. The identification of the system delays by studies of different discrete modelling delays was enabled by the proposed structure. Further, it was shown that the hybrid discrete delay methodology is not limited to discrete delay systems. The proposed method is a powerful tool to identify time delays in ill-defined biochemical networks.
Endovascular covered stenting for the management of post-percutaneous nephrolithotomy renal pseudoaneurysm: a case report
Authors: Philippou Prodromos , Moraitis Konstantinos , El-Husseiny Tamer , Wazait Hassan , Masood Junaid , Buchholz Noor
Published: September 2010

Introduction

Intrarenal pseudoaneurysm is a rare, yet clinically significant, complication of percutaneous nephrolithotomy. A high index of clinical suspicion is necessary in order to recognize pseudoaneurysm as the cause of delayed bleeding after percutaneous nephrolithotomy and angiography confirms the diagnosis which allows endovascular management.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 65-year old Caucasian woman who underwent percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the supine position for a two centimetre renal calculus. The postoperative course was complicated by persistent bleeding due to a renal pseudoaneurysm. The vascular lesion was successfully managed by endovascular exclusion through the use of a covered stent graft. We report the first successful use of this method for the management of iatrogenic pseudoaneurysm in a branch of the left renal artery and we focus on the imaging findings, technical details, advantages and limitations of this technique.

Conclusion

As a result of its high efficacy, interventional radiology has largely replaced open surgery for the management of renal pseudoaneurysm related to percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Recent technical advancements have allowed the use of covered stent grafts as an alternative to embolisation for the angiographic management of visceral artery pseudoaneurysm located in other organs. This novel technique allows the endovascular exclusion of the pseudoaneurysm, without compromising arterial supply to the end-structures - an advantage of critical importance in organs supplied by segmental arteries - in the absence of collateral vasculature, such as the kidney.
Barriers to accessing highly active antiretroviral therapy by HIV‐positive women attending an antenatal clinic in a regional hospital in western Uganda
Authors: Duff Putu , Kipp Walter , Wild T Cameron , Rubaale Tom , Okech‐Ojony Joa
Published: September 2010

Background

The aim of this study was to describe barriers to accessing and accepting highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) by HIV‐positive mothers in the Ugandan Kabarole District's Programme for the Prevention of Mother to Child Transmission‐Plus (PMTCT‐Plus).

Methods

Our study was a qualitative descriptive exploratory study using thematic analysis. Individual in‐depth interviews (n = 45) were conducted with randomly selected HIV‐positive mothers who attended this programme, and who: (a) never enrolled in HAART (n = 17); (b) enrolled but did not come back to receive HAART (n = 2); (c) defaulted/interrupted HAART (n = 14); and (d) are currently adhering to HAART (n = 12). A focus group was also conducted to verify the results from the interviews.

Results

Results indicated that economic concerns, particularly transport costs from residences to the clinics, represented the greatest barrier to accessing treatment. In addition, HIV‐related stigma and non‐disclosure of HIV status to clients' sexual partners, long waiting times at the clinic and suboptimal provider‐patient interactions at the hospital emerged as significant barriers.

Conclusions

These barriers to antiretroviral treatment of pregnant and post‐natal women need to be addressed in order to improve HAART uptake and adherence for this group of the population. This would improve their survival and, at the same time, drastically reduce HIV transmission from mother to child.
Receptor conversion in distant breast cancer metastases
Authors: Hoefnagel Laurien DC , van de Vijver Marc J , van Slooten Henk-Jan , Wesseling Pieter , Wesseling Jelle , Westenend Pieter J , Bart Joost , Seldenrijk Cornelis A , Nagtegaal Iris D , Oudejans Joost , van der Valk Paul , van der Groep Petra , de Vries Elisabeth GE , van der Wall Elsken , van Diest Paul J
Published: September 2010

Introduction

When breast cancer patients develop distant metastases, the choice of systemic treatment is usually based on tissue characteristics of the primary tumor as determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or molecular analysis. Several previous studies have shown that the immunophenotype of distant breast cancer metastases may be different from that of the primary tumor (receptor conversion), leading to inappropriate choice of systemic treatment. The studies published so far are however small and/or methodologically suboptimal. Therefore, definite conclusions that may change clinical practice could not yet be drawn. We therefore aimed to study receptor conversion for estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) in a large group of distant (non-bone) breast cancer metastases by re-staining all primary tumors and metastases with current optimal immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization methods on full sections.

Methods

A total of 233 distant breast cancer metastases from different sites (76 skin, 63 liver, 43 lung, 44 brain and 7 gastro-intestinal) were IHC stained for ERα, PR and HER2, and expression was compared to that of the primary tumor. HER2 in situ hybridization (ISH) was done in cases of IHC conversion or when primary tumors or metastases showed an IHC 2+ result.

Results

Using a 10% threshold, receptor conversion by IHC for ERα, PR occurred in 10.3%, 30.0% of patients, respectively. In 10.7% of patients, conversion from ER+ or PR+ to ER-/PR- and in 3.4% from ER-/PR- to ER+ or PR+ was found. Using a 1% threshold, ERα and PR conversion rates were 15.1% and 32.6%. In 12.4% of patients conversion from ER+ or PR+ to ER-/PR-, and 8.2% from ER-/PR- to ER+ or PR+ occurred. HER2 conversion occurred in 5.2%. Of the 12 cases that showed HER2 conversion by IHC, 5 showed also conversion by ISH. One further case showed conversion by ISH, but not by IHC. Conversion was mainly from positive in the primary tumor to negative in the metastases for ERα and PR, while HER2 conversion occurred equally both ways. PR conversion occurred significantly more often in liver, brain and gastro-intestinal metastases.

Conclusions

Receptor conversion by immunohistochemistry in (non-bone) distant breast cancer metastases does occur, is relatively uncommon for ERα and HER2, and is more frequent for PR, especially in brain, liver and gastro-intestinal metastases.
Estrogen Stimulation of Cell Migration Involves Multiple Signaling Pathway Interactions
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Ji-Ping , Santen Richard J. , Kim Tae-Hyun , Park Hoyong , Fan Ping , Yue Wei
Published: September 2010

Hormone-dependent breast cancers respond to inhibitors of estrogen synthesis or action with tumor regression and with a reduction of new metastases. The mechanisms underlying the effects of estrogen on metastasis likely differ from those on tumor regression. Cell migration is a key first step in the metastatic process. Based on our prior work and other published data, we designed and tested a working model that suggested that estrogen receptor α, epidermal growth factor receptor, focal adhesion kinase (FAK), paxillin, phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase, p60 Src tyrosine kinase (c-Src), c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and MAPK interact to facilitate estradiol (E2)-induced cell migration. Accordingly, we examined the effect of E2 on activation of these pathways and demonstrated mechanistic effects by blocking each component and assessing cell migration as a biologic endpoint. Initial studies validated a robust cell migration assay characterized by highly reproducible, dose-dependent responses to E2. Examining various mechanisms involved in migration, we showed that E2 induced activation of c-Src, FAK, and paxillin with early peaks within 5–30 min and later peaks at 24 h. ERK and protein kinase B phosphorylation exhibited only early peaks. Blockade of various steps in these signaling pathways with use of small interfering RNA or specific inhibitors demonstrated mechanistic effects of these signaling molecules on cell migration. Our results suggest that the effects of E2 on cell migration involve multiple, interacting signaling pathways. Important effects are mediated by the MAPK, phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase, and c-Jun N-terminal kinase pathways and use FAK, paxillin, and c-Src for activation. Each pathway represents a potential target for blocking cell migration and metastasis of breast cancer cells.
Antiestrogenic Effects of the Novel Sphingosine Kinase-2 Inhibitor ABC294640
Authors: Antoon James W. , White Martin D. , Meacham William D. , Slaughter Evelyn M. , Muir Shannon E. , Elliott Steven , Rhodes Lyndsay V. , Ashe Hasina B. , Wiese Thomas E. , Smith Charles D. , Burow Matthew E. , Beckman Barbara S.
Published: September 2010

Alterations in sphingolipid metabolism have been shown to contribute to the development of endocrine resistance and breast cancer tumor survival. Sphingosine kinase (SK), in particular, is overexpressed in breast cancer and is a promising target for breast cancer drug development. In this study, we used the novel SK inhibitor ABC294640 as a tool to explore the relationship between SK and estrogen (E2) receptor (ER) signaling in breast cancer cells. Treatment with ABC294640 decreased E2-stimulated ERE-luciferase activity in both MCF-7 and ER-transfected HEK293 cells. Furthermore, the inhibitor reduced E2-mediated transcription of the ER-regulated genes progesterone receptor and SDF-1. Competitive receptor-binding assays revealed that ABC294640 binds in the antagonist ligand-binding domain of the ER, acting as a partial antagonist similar to tamoxifen. Finally, treatment with ABC294640 inhibited ER-positive breast cancer tumor formation in vivo. After 15 d of treatment with ABC294640, tumor volume was reduced by 68.4% (P < 0.05; n = 5) compared with control tumors, with no marked weight loss or illness. Taken together, these results provide strong evidence that this novel SK inhibitor, which had not previously been known to interact with E2 signaling pathways, has therapeutic potential in treating ER-positive breast cancer via inhibition of both SK and ER signaling.
High-Fat Diet Causes Lipotoxicity Responses in Cumulus–Oocyte Complexes and Decreased Fertilization Rates
Authors: Wu Linda Lin-Yan , Dunning Kylie R. , Yang Xing , Russell Darryl L. , Lane Michelle , Norman Robert J. , Robker Rebecca L.
Published: September 2010

In obesity, accumulation of lipid in nonadipose tissues, or lipotoxicity, is associated with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ultimately apoptosis. We have previously shown that obese women have increased triglycerides in follicular fluid; thus, the present study examined whether high-fat diet–induced obesity causes lipotoxicity in granulosa cells and the cumulus–oocyte complex (COC). Oocytes of mice fed a high-fat diet had dramatically increased lipid content and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential compared to those of mice fed a control diet. COCs from mice fed a high-fat diet had increased expression of ER stress marker genes ATF4 and GRP78. Apoptosis was increased in granulosa and cumulus cells of mice fed a high-fat diet. Mice fed a high-fat diet also exhibited increased anovulation and decreased in vivo fertilization rates. Thus, lipid accumulation, ER stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis are markedly increased in ovarian cells of mice fed a high-fat diet. ER stress markers were also analyzed in granulosa cells and follicular fluid from women with varying body mass indices (BMI). ATF4 was increased in granulosa cells and [Ca2+] in follicular fluid from obese women compared to nonobese women. These results indicate that lipotoxicity may be occurring in ovarian cells of obese women and may contribute to the reduced pregnancy rates observed in response to obesity.
An Improved Method for Recording Tail Skin Temperature in the Rat Reveals Changes During the Estrous Cycle and Effects of Ovarian Steroids
Authors: Williams Hemalini , Dacks Penny A. , Rance Naomi E.
Published: September 2010

In the rat, tail skin vasomotion is a primary heat loss mechanism that can be monitored by changes in tail skin temperature (TSKIN). Previous studies showed that ovariectomy and estrogen replacement modify TSKIN in the rat. Based on these findings, the ovariectomized (OVX) rat has been used as a model to study the mechanisms and treatment of menopausal hot flushes. It is not known, however, if TSKIN changes across the estrous cycle in intact rats. Here, we describe an improved method for monitoring TSKIN in freely moving rats using a SubCue Mini datalogger mounted on the ventral surface of the tail. This method is noninvasive, cost-effective, and does not require restraints or tethering. We observed a distinct pattern of TSKIN across the estrous cycle characterized by low TSKIN on proestrous night. To determine whether this pattern was secondary to secretion of ovarian steroids, we monitored the thermoregulatory effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) and E2 plus progesterone, administered via SILASTIC capsules to OVX rats. E2 treatment of OVX rats significantly reduced TSKIN in the dark phase from 2 to 21 d after hormone treatment. The TSKIN of E2-treated OVX animals was not significantly different from OVX rats receiving E2 plus progesterone. These data provide evidence that the reduction in TSKIN on proestrous night was secondary to elevated levels of ovarian estrogens. This study provides the first description of TSKIN changes with the estrous cycle and supports the role of estrogens in normal thermoregulation in the rat.
Tuberoinfundibular Peptide of 39 Residues Is Activated during Lactation and Participates in the Suckling-Induced Prolactin Release in Rat
Authors: Cservenák Melinda , Bodnár Ibolya , Usdin Ted B. , Palkovits Miklós , Nagy György M. , Dobolyi Arpád
Published: September 2010

Tuberoinfundibular peptide of 39 residues (TIP39) and the PTH-2 receptor (PTH2R) constitute a peptide-receptor neuromodulator system. Based on the abundance of TIP39 fibers and axonal terminals as well as PTH2R-containing neurons and their processes in the hypothalamic para- and periventricular and arcuate nuclei TIP39 has been suggested to play a role in neuroendocrine regulation. We showed previously that TIP39 expression decreased dramatically by adulthood. In the present study, using in situ hybridization histochemistry, real-time RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry, we found that TIP39 mRNA and peptide expression levels are markedly elevated in the posterior intralaminar complex of the thalamus (PIL) of lactating dams, one of the three locations of TIP39-containing cell bodies in the brain. In addition, in mother rats, these TIP39 neurons showed Fos expression in response to pup exposure. Transection of TIP39 fibers originating in the PIL resulted in an ipsilateral disappearance of TIP39 immunoreactivity throughout the mediobasal hypothalamus of mother rats, suggesting that TIP39 fibers there arise from the PIL. To elucidate the function of TIP39 activation in dams, mothers separated from their pups for 4 h on postpartum d 9 received injection of a PTH2R antagonist into the lateral ventricle 5 min before returning the pups. Blood samples were taken seven times during the experimental period through jugular cannulae. The PTH2R antagonist administered in two different concentrations markedly inhibited suckling-induced elevation of plasma prolactin levels in a dose-dependent manner. These results suggest that TIP39 neurons in the PIL may regulate suckling-induced prolactin release in rat dams.
Processing of Anti-Müllerian Hormone Regulates Receptor Activation by a Mechanism Distinct from TGF-β
Authors: di Clemente Nathalie , Jamin Soazik P. , Lugovskoy Alexey , Carmillo Paul , Ehrenfels Christian , Picard Jean-Yves , Whitty Adrian , Josso Nathalie , Pepinsky R. Blake , Cate Richard L.
Published: September 2010

TGF-β family ligands are translated as prepropeptide precursors and are processed into mature C-terminal dimers that signal by assembling a serine/threonine kinase receptor complex containing type I and II components. Many TGF-β ligands are secreted in a latent form that cannot bind their receptor, due to the pro-region remaining associated with the mature ligand in a noncovalent complex after proteolytic cleavage. Here we show that anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), a TGF-β family ligand involved in reproductive development, must be cleaved to bind its type II receptor (AMHRII), but dissociation of the pro-region from the mature C-terminal dimer is not required for this initial interaction. We provide direct evidence for this interaction by showing that the noncovalent complex binds to a soluble form of AMHRII in an ELISA format and to AMHRII immobilized on Sepharose. Binding of the noncovalent complex to Sepharose-coupled AMHRII induces dissociation of the pro-region from the mature C-terminal dimer, whereas no dissociation occurs after binding to immobilized AMH antibodies. The pro-region cannot be detected after binding of the AMH noncovalent complex to AMHRII expressed on COS cells, indicating that pro-region dissociation may occur as a natural consequence of receptor engagement on cells. Moreover, the mature C-terminal dimer is more active than the noncovalent complex in stimulating Sma- and Mad-related protein activation, suggesting that pro-region dissociation contributes to the assembly of the active receptor complex. AMH thus exemplifies a new mechanism for receptor engagement in which interaction with the type II receptor promotes pro-region dissociation to generate mature ligand.
Services Trade and Policy
Authors: Francois Joseph , Hoekman Bernard
Published: September 2010

A substantial body of research has taken shape on trade in services since the mid-1980s. Much of this is inspired by the WTO and regional trade agreements. However, an increasing number of papers focus on the impacts of unilateral services sector liberalization. The literature touches on important linkages between trade and FDI in services and the general pattern of productivity growth and economic development. This paper surveys the literature on services trade, focusing on contributions that investigate the determinants of international trade and investment in services, the potential gains from greater trade, and efforts to cooperate to achieve such liberalization through trade agreements. There is increasing evidence that services liberalization is a major potential source of gains in economic performance, including productivity in manufacturing and the coordination of activities both between and within firms. The performance of service sectors, and thus services policies, may also be an important determinant of trade volumes, the distributional effects of trade, and overall patterns of economic growth and development. At the same time, services trade is also a source of increasing political unease about the impacts of globalization on labor markets, linked to worries about offshoring and the potential pressure this places on wages in high income countries.
Consumption and Saving: Models of Intertemporal Allocation and Their Implications for Public Policy
Authors: Attanasio Orazio P , Weber Guglielmo
Published: September 2010

This paper provides a critical survey of the large literature on the life cycle model of consumption, both from an empirical and a theoretical point of view. It discusses several approaches that have been taken in the literature to bring the model to the data, their empirical successes, and their failures. Finally, the paper reviews a number of changes to the standard life cycle model that could help solve the remaining empirical puzzles.
Experimental and Finite Element Analysis of the API RP60 Test
Authors: Harris Jason T. , Segall Albert E. , Hellmann John R. , Scheetz Barry E. , Koseski Ryan P. , Boyce Joshua M.
Published: September 2010

The compaction and fracture of brittle spherical particles in a cylindrical vessel were experimentally and numerically studied in the context of the American Petroleum Institute Recommended Practice 60 for proppants used in the hydraulic fracturing of oil and gas wells. Because pressures within the cylindrical vessel could not be directly measured, strain was experimentally determined via gauges along the outside surface. In addition, an epoxy resin was also injected at various loading stages to “freeze” the damage states for analysis. In addition, acoustic emissions were monitored in situ to determine damage signatures that could be correlated with the frozen test and strain measurement data. Experimental results were then compared to finite element simulations by using an assumed double-exponential pressure distribution applied to the inner face of the vessel. The results indicated that the assumed pressure distribution adequately described the loading state within the cylinder and revealed apparent stratification of damaged proppants near the top and bottom of the container. In addition, the damaged proppants and acoustic emission signatures showed that the damage increases progressively with the loading in distinct stages characterized by fracture and subsequent stress redistribution.
Pore Independent Crack Propagation of Glass-Alumina Functionally Graded Materials
Authors: Cheng-Long Yu , Hong-Tao Jiang , Li-Li Wang
Published: September 2010

Crack propagation of glass-alumina functionally graded materials prepared by a novel freeform fabrication method was investigated. Pores were intentionally introduced by partial decomposition of poly vinyl alcohol gel. Preferential distribution of pores adjacent the alumina particles is confirmed due to the integrated liquid-phase sintering process, especially the migration of the activated alumina interfaces towards the equilibrium state. Crack propagation and distribution were directly observed by scanning electron microscopy. Cracks propagate through the weakly bonded interfaces which finally cause the glass matrix to fracture. However, pores have little effect on the crack propagation.
Development of a Flattened Indirect Tension Test for Asphalt Concrete
Authors: Dave Eshan V. , Braham Andrew F. , Buttlar William G. , Paulino Glaucio H.
Published: September 2010

The indirect tension test (IDT) is frequently used in civil engineering because of its benefits over direct tension testing. In the mid-1990s, an IDT protocol was developed for evaluating tensile strength and creep properties of asphalt concrete mixtures, as specified by the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO) in AASHTO T322. However, with the increased use of finer aggregate gradations and polymer modified asphalt binders in asphalt concrete mixtures, the validity of IDT strength results can be questioned in instances where significant crushing occurs under the narrow loading heads. Therefore, a new specimen configuration is proposed for indirect tension testing of asphalt concrete. In place of the standard loading heads, the specimen was trimmed to produce flat planes with parallel faces, creating a “flattened IDT.” A viscoelastic finite element analysis of the flattened configuration was performed to evaluate the optimal trimming width. In addition, the numerically determined geometry was verified by means of laboratory testing of three asphalt concrete mixtures in two flattened configurations. This integrated modeling and testing study showed that when using fine aggregate gradations and compliant asphalt binders, crushing is significantly reduced while maintaining tensile stresses near the center of the specimen. Furthermore, creep compliances were evaluated using the flattened IDT and compared with those obtained following AASHTO T322. Some variation was observed between the creep properties evaluated from the different geometries, particularly for higher compliance values. As a preliminary assessment, the flattened IDT seems to be a suitable geometry for the evaluation of indirect tensile strength of asphalt concrete. Further testing and analysis should be performed on the flattened IDT arrangement for evaluation of the creep compliance. This study provides an initial step towards a possible revision of the current AASHTO standard for IDT testing of asphalt concrete mixtures.
Askese und Wissenschaft – Thomas von Aquin und Max Weber im Vergleich
Authors: Krieger Gerhard , Krieger Gerhard
Published: September 2010

Asceticism and science are connected in Weber’s thought insofar as “asceticism” includes an attitude of job-related professionalization and this attitude in turn signifies capitalistic as well as scientific activity. In this way, asceticism has also an “innerworldly” nature, in contrast to the way it is depicted in Christianity or in other religions. In this (religious) sense, asceticism serves as a means to otherworldly completion, while its “innerworldly” meaning is entirely interior to itself. Insofar as for Weber, asceticism, independent from any religious sense, signifies scientific as well as economic activity, it is a “practical-rational” conduct of life in the sense of competence, enhancement, and perfection. This is the methodological basis for a reconsideration of Thomas Aquinas’ ideas on asceticism. Thomas, like Weber, uncouples the relation of otherworldly completion and asceticism and links this decoupling to the priority of perfection of asceticism. However Thomas, contrary to Weber, associates asceticism with the conditions innate to a particular way of life; in this sense, asceticism can determine human existence itself, insofar as it is realized both “outside the world in monastic communities” and also “within this world and for it”. With reference to the relation of science and asceticism, for Thomas as well as for Weber scientific activity is “ascetic” in the sense that it strives for perfection. However, in contrast to Weber, Thomas maintains that it is impossible for a subject to bring his scientific activity to a complete conclusion.
Late gastrointestinal metastases of invasive lobular breast carcinoma mimicking Crohn’s disease
Authors: Szabó Judit , Falkus Bernadett , Simon Éva , Brünner Szilveszter , Baranyay Ferenc
Published: September 2010

Az invazív lobularis emlőcarcinomát – amely az emlőcarcinomák mintegy 10%-át teszi ki – szövettanilag, molekuláris genetikailag, klinikumát, metasztatizálási sajátságait tekintve különálló emlőcarcinoma-entitásnak tartják. Szemben a ductalis invazív emlőcarcinomával, késői metasztázisai főként a gyomor-bél traktust érintik. Emlőcarcinoma ritkán metasztatizál a gastrointestinumba. Általában 3–20 évvel a primer tumor felismerése után jelentkeznek a gyulladásos megbetegedést, második malignoma gyanúját keltő hasi tünetek. Az 53 éves korában meghalt emlőcarcinomás nőbeteg esetét mutatjuk be, akinél 8 évi tumormentesség után felhasi görcsös fájdalmak léptek fel, amelyek körkörös jelleggel a hátba sugároztak. A radiológiai vizsgálat Crohn-betegséget véleményezett. Az elvégzett ileumbiopszia negatív volt, a beteg ex juvantibus szteroidterápiában részesült. Mechanikus ileus lépett fel és a terminális ileum, valamint a felszálló vastagbél részleges eltávolítására került sor. Három héttel a műtét után úgynevezett késői varratelégtelenségben, peritonitis szövődményeiben meghalt. A terminalis ileum metszeteiben a beszűkült, megvastagodott bél fali rétegeit kiterjedten infiltráló kis sejtes diffúz carcinomás szövetburjánzás volt megfigyelhető. A metasztatikus carcinomás sejtek immunhisztokémiai vizsgálatokkal breast carcinoma antigénnel (BCA-1) és CA-15-3 savóval reagáltak. A beteg vörösvértest-fenotípusa alapján AB vércsoportú volt, és a carcinomás sejtek ABH vércsoport-specifikus lektinekkel és monoklonális antitestekkel intenzíven reagáltak. Orv. Hetil., 2010,40,1666–1671.
Changes of gene expression and its role in pathogenesis in fibrous and non-fibrous dysplastic bone tissues in women
Authors: Kiss János , Balla Bernadett , Kósa János P. , Borsy Adrienn , Podani János , Takács István , Lazáry Áron , Nagy Zsolt , Bácsi Krisztián , Szlávy Eszter , Szendrői Miklós , Speer Gábor , Orosz László , Lakatos Péter
Published: September 2010

A fibrosus dysplasia a csontok benignus, tumorszerű elváltozása, amelyre az örvényes lefutású kötőszöveti nyalábok és az érett-éretlen csontgerendák jellemzőek. A jelátvivő G-fehérje α-alegységét kódoló GNAS1 gén pontmutációja okozta fejlődési zavarról, az osteoblastok kóros differenciálódásáról van szó, amelynek következtében az érett csontszövet helyét rostos kötőszövet foglalja el. A szerzők célja a fibrosus és a nem fibrosus szövetben eltérően kifejeződő egyedi gének meghatározása volt, és leírni a közöttük lévő összefüggéseket multiparaméteres statisztikai analízisek segítségével.
Módszer:
Hat fibrosus dysplasiás és hét nem fibrosus dysplasiás nőbeteg csontmintáit vizsgálták. A hat fibrosus dysplasiás nőbeteg mintája magából a fibrosus elváltozásból származott, míg a hét nem fibrosus dysplasiás kontrollcsontmintát csípőprotézis-beültetés során, a combnyakból vették. A 118 kiválasztott gén expressziós különbségeit TaqMan-próbaalapú kvantitatív valós idejű PCR-technikával mérték.
Eredmények:
A Mann-Whitney-féle U-teszt 27 gén esetében mutatott szignifikánsan eltérő (p ≤ 0,05) expressziós különbséget a fibrosus dysplasiás és a nem fibrosus dysplasiás egyénekben. A fibrosus dysplasiás betegeknél kilenc gén kifejeződése szignifikánsan fokozott volt, további 18 gén esetén jelentős génkifejeződés-csökkenést mértek. Ezek a szignifikáns különbséggel szabályozódó gének elsősorban minor kollagén molekulákat, extracelluláris mátrixot bontó enzimeket, transzkripciós faktorokat, adhéziós molekulákat, növekedési faktorokat, gyulladást serkentő citokineket és lipidanyagcseréhez kapcsolt faktorokat kódolnak. A diszkriminanciaanalízis megmutatta, hogy a fibrosus dysplasiás és a nem fibrosus dysplasiás csontszövet megkülönböztethető részben a G-proteinhez kapcsolt számos gén, a BMP-kaszkád komponenseinek és az extracelluláris mátrixhoz kötődő molekulákat kódoló gének eltérő transzkripciós profilja alapján.
Következtetések:
A fibrosus dysplasiában szignifikánsan eltérő génkifejeződési mintázatok feltárása további segítséget adhat a csontszövet fibrosus átalakulásának és a kórfolyamat hátterének megismerésében. Orv. Hetil., 2010,
40,
1656–1665.
Efeito da irrigação e da ontogenia sobre a estimativa da área foliar de Hancornia speciosa Gómez (mangabeira)
Authors: Lobo Francisco de Almeida , Ortíz Carmen Eugenia Rodríguez , Lucena Isabela Codolo de , Arduin Marcos
Published: September 2010

A estimativa da área foliar por meio de curvas de regressão que empregam o produto do comprimento pela largura do limbo como variável independente, é uma prática comumente empregada na análise de crescimento vegetal. Entretanto, dependendo da natureza do material vegetal e das condições de cultivo, é possível a ocorrência de variações que afetam essa relação alométrica, o que implica a não universalidade de uma única curva de regressão. Devido a esse problema, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo realizar uma avaliação do efeito da irrigação e da ontogenia sobre a estimativa da área foliar da Hancornia speciosa, para testar a hipótese de que a irrigação afetaria tal relação alométrica. Verificou-se que os modelos de regressão obtidos para as plantas irrigadas e para as não irrigadas diferiram entre si, sendo que houve a necessidade da inclusão da área foliar específica no modelo de estimativa da área foliar das plantas não irrigadas. A não inclusão dessa variável no modelo de regressão acarretou uma diferença de estimativa que se incrementou com a redução da área foliar específica. Em folhas recém-expandidas de plantas irrigadas e não irrigadas, verificou-se diferença na área foliar específica devida à alteração na massa seca e não associada à largura dos tecidos foliares.
Definição do posicionamento de sensores para monitoramento da água no solo em bananeira irrigada por diferentes sistemas de irrigação localizada
Authors: Coelho Eugênio F. , Silva Alisson J. P. Da , Miranda Jarbas H. De
Published: September 2010

O uso eficiente da água na irrigação localizada dependerá, além de outros fatores, também do correto monitoramento da água no solo. Portanto, este trabalho teve como objetivo caracterizar as zonas efetivas de comprimento de raízes e de extração de água, bem como indicar o correto posicionamento de sensores de água no solo para o manejo da irrigação por gotejamento na bananeira em fase de produção. No experimento, conduzido na Embrapa Mandioca e Fruticultura Tropical, foram estudados diferentes sistemas de irrigação localizada, diante dos seguintes tratamentos: T1 - dois emissores de 4 L h-1 por planta em uma lateral por fileira de plantas; T2 - quatro emissores de 4 L h-1 por planta em uma lateral por fileira de plantas; T3 - cinco emissores de 4 L h-1 por planta em faixa contínua com uma lateral por fileira. Pelos resultados obtidos, pode-se observar que as regiões mais adequadas para a instalação de sensores de umidade no solo nos tratamentos T1, T2 e T3 são as limitadas pelas distâncias e profundidades de 0,2 m e 0,4 m; 0,5 m e 0,35 m; 0,55 m e 0,35 m, respectivamente.
Avaliação de métodos de estimativa da evapotranspiração horária para alface cultivada em sistema hidropônico em ambiente protegido
Authors: Moura Carlos R. W. , Zolnier Sérgio , Ribeiro Aristides , Oliveira Rubens A. De
Published: September 2010

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a precisão e a exatidão de métodos de estimativa de valores horários de evapotranspiração (ETc) para alface cultivada em sistema hidropônico sob ambiente protegido. Para a determinação dos parâmetros pertinentes aos diferentes métodos de estimativa e sua posterior validação, foram utilizados dois conjuntos de dados experimentais obtidos a partir de medições realizadas nas cultivares Grand Rapids, Regina e Great Lakes. As estimativas de evapotranspiração foram realizadas com os seguintes métodos: Penman-Monteith parametrizado pela FAO, em 1998 (PMF); Penman-Monteith modificado para condições aerodinâmicas características de ambiente protegido (PMAP); Penman-Monteith modificado para ambiente protegido simplificado (PMAPS); Priestley-Taylor (PT); Radiação solar (RS) e Radiação solar simplificado (RSS). Os resultados demonstraram que os métodos PMAP e PMAPS possibilitaram estimativas mais adequadas da ETc, tanto no período da manhã como no da tarde.
Variabilidade espacial da rentabilidade, perdas na colheita e produtividade do feijoeiro
Authors: Johann Jerry A. , Silva Maria C. A. , Uribe-Opazo Miguel A. , Dalposso Gustavo H
Published: September 2010

O feijoeiro comum é cultivado em todas as regiões do País e apresenta grande importância econômica e social. É uma cultura de subsistência em pequenas propriedades, porém apresenta alguns problemas que influenciam em sua comercialização, como oscilação de preço pago ao produtor. Os métodos de colheita são diversos e, atualmente, o mais utilizado no Brasil é a colheita semimecanizada. Com o objetivo de avaliar a produtividade, rentabilidade, perdas manual e mecânica na colheita da cultivar de feijão Juriti, realizou-se o levantamento de dados georreferenciados em uma área de 10,45 ha, com o auxílio de uma grade de amostragem regular de 50 x 50 m. Para estudar a variabilidade espacial, foram utilizadas técnicas geoestatísticas, que geraram mapas temáticos por meio da krigagem. Constatou-se que, para a safra de 2005/2006, a produtividade média encontrada na área foi 7,66% maior que a média regional informada pela SEAB do Paraná. Por ocasião da colheita, as perdas manuais foram menores (1,47%) que as mecânicas (7,28%) e, estas, quando somadas, representaram uma perda total de 8,75% da produtividade média da área. Pelos mapas, foi possível identificar a distribuição espacial das variáveis estudadas por toda a área estudada e verificar que, em 21,37% da área cultivada, houve prejuízo, ou seja, a rentabilidade obtida com a venda do feijão foi menor que o custo de produção, causado especialmente pela baixa produtividade da cultura. Tais informações são importantes para que o agricultor conheça a sua área de plantio, bem como avalie por meio do mapa de rentabilidade se, eventualmente, outra cultura agrícola não teria uma rentabilidade maior por área.
Granjas leiteiras na região de Ribeirão Preto - SP
Authors: Milani Adhemar P. , Souza Fernando A. De
Published: September 2010

Nas atividades de exploração leiteira, as construções para os animais são fundamentais e de suma importância no processo de produção. Sendo assim, suas concepções devem basear-se em soluções técnicas e econômicas, que ofereçam condições eficientes e funcionais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um levantamento sobre as principais características de granjas leiteiras localizadas em municípios paulistas próximos a Ribeirão Preto e no sul de Minas Gerais e recomendar soluções, com base na literatura, para a execução de projeto para a região de Ribeirão Preto-SP. O trabalho foi desenvolvido com base em estudos teóricos e observações in loco, considerando as seguintes construções: galpão de estabulação livre; bezerreiro; sala de ordenha e seus anexos (pedilúvio, lava-pés e curral de espera) e sistema de tratamento de dejetos. Dos resultados obtidos, verificou-se que a maioria das granjas leiteiras foi projetada sem critérios e com soluções técnicas não eficazes.
Comparação entre dois tipos de suspensão passiva de barra em condições simuladas de pista de prova normalizada
Authors: Pontelli Cristiano O. , Mucheroni Mário F. , Balthazar José M. , Pontes Júnior Bento R.
Published: September 2010

Neste trabalho, foram feitas algumas análises sobre o comportamento dinâmico simulado de dois tipos de suspensões passivas das barras dos pulverizadores tracionados. Estas análises foram conduzidas em condições virtuais de pista de prova normalizada ISO 5008, com dois níveis de velocidade de deslocamento do pulverizador (5 km h-1 e 15 km h-1) e em dois perfis de pista existentes na norma (acidentada e suavizada). Foram utilizados nas simulações os softwares MATLAB®; SIMULINK® e Visual Nastran®. Os resultados mostram que a suspensão do tipo trapezoidal teve melhor desempenho em baixas frequências de excitação (w < 0,2 Hz), enquanto a suspensão do tipo pêndulo simples teve melhor desempenho nas demais condições das pistas normalizadas.
Métodos de inoculação de Alternaria alternata e A. dauci em sementes de salsa e sua influência na qualidade fisiológica
Authors: Pedroso Daniele Cardoso , Menezes Vanessa Ocom , Muniz Marlove Fátima Brião , Piveta Graziela , Tunes Lilian Madruga de , Muller Juceli , Menezes Nilson Lemos de
Published: September 2010

O objetivo neste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da associação de Alternaria alternata e A. dauci na qualidade fisiológica de sementes de salsa inoculadas sob dois métodos, suspensão de conídios e restrição hídrica. Para a inoculação por suspensão, foi preparada uma solução contendo 10(5) conídios de A. alternata, A. dauci e ambas as espécies (A. alternata + A. dauci), na qual as sementes permaneceram por 30 minutos. Para inoculação por restrição hídrica foi preparado meio BDA, acrescido com 33,10 g/L de manitol, no qual cresceram as colônias de A. alternata; A. dauci e A. alternata + A. dauci. As sementes permaneceram nas placas por 48 horas. Após os procedimentos de inoculação, a qualidade fisiológica das sementes foi avaliada por testes realizados em condições controladas de laboratório e em casa de vegetação. As sementes de salsa tiveram a sua qualidade fisiológica prejudicada pela associação com A. alternata e A. dauci em condições de laboratório, especialmente com relação à germinação, primeira contagem de germinação, porcentagem de plântulas anormais, porcentagem de sementes mortas e ao teste de frio.
Umedecimento do substrato e temperatura na germinação e vigor de sementes de Amburana cearensis (All.) A.C. Smith
Authors: Guedes Roberta Sales , Alves Edna Ursulino , Gonçalves Edilma Pereira , Viana Jeandson Silva , França Pablo Radamés Cabral de , Lima Cosmo Rufino de
Published: September 2010

A Amburana cearensis (Allemão) A.C. Smith é uma espécie que apresenta considerável importância econômica para região de Caatinga e é empregada na medicina popular. Atualmente, há necessidade de padronização do teste de germinação nos laboratórios de análises; nesse sentido a definição do volume de água e de temperatura que favoreça a germinação, conforme a espécie, provavelmente minimizaria as variações nos resultados deste teste. O presente trabalho foi conduzido com o objetivo de avaliar diferentes volumes de água no substrato e temperaturas para a germinação de sementes de A. cearensis. As sementes foram semeadas em papel toalha umedecido com volume de água equivalente a 2,0; 2,5; 3,0 e 3,5 vezes o peso do substrato, sem adição posterior de água, e mantidas em germinadores (B.O.D.) nas temperaturas constantes de 30 ºC e 35 ºC. Foi analisada a porcentagem de germinação, a primeira contagem de germinação, o índice de velocidade de germinação, o comprimento e a massa seca de plântulas. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente ao acaso com os tratamentos em esquema fatorial 4 x 2 (volumes de água e temperaturas). A temperatura de 35 ºC prejudicou a germinação e o vigor das sementes de A. cearensis. A temperatura de 30 ºC e o volume de água de 3,5 vezes o peso do papel é a combinação mais indicada para a condução dos testes de germinação e vigor das sementes de A. cearensis.