bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin Is Produced by Dendritic Cells
Authors: Kashyap Mohit , Rochman Yrina , Spolski Rosanne , Samsel Leigh , Leonard Warren J.
Published: June 2011

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is a type 1 cytokine that contributes to lymphopoiesis and the development of asthma and atopic dermatitis. TSLP acts on multiple lineages, including dendritic cells (DCs), T cells, NKT cells, eosinophils, and mast cells, mediating proliferation and survival and linking innate and adaptive immune responses. TSLP is produced by a range of cells, including epithelial cells, fibroblasts, stromal cells, and keratinocytes. DCs are important primary targets of TSLP, and we unexpectedly demonstrated that DCs also produce TSLP in response to TLR stimulation and that this is augmented by IL-4. Moreover, we demonstrated that when mice were challenged with house dust mite extract, lung CD11c+ DCs expressed TSLP mRNA at an even higher level than did epithelial cells. These data suggested that DCs not only respond to TSLP but also are a source of TSLP during pathogen and/or allergen encounter.
Safety and Efficacy of MLC601 in Iranian Patients after Stroke: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Harandi A. A. , Abolfazli R. , Hatemian A. , Ghragozlee K. , Ghaffar-Pour M. , Karimi M. , Shahbegi S. , Pakdaman H. , Tabasi M. , Tabatabae A. L. , Nourian A.
Published: June 2011

Objective. To investigate the safety and efficacy of MLC601 (NeuroAid) as a traditional Chinese medicine on motor recovery after ischemic stroke.Methods. This study was a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial on 150 patients with a recent (less than 1 month) ischemic stroke. All patients were given either MLC601 (100 patients) or placebo (50 patients), 4 capsules 3 times a day, as an add-on to standard stroke treatment for 3 months.Results. Sex, age, elapsed time from stroke onset, and risk factors in the treatment group were not significantly different from placebo group at baseline (P>.05). Repeated measures analysis showed that Fugl-Meyer assessment was significantly higher in the treatment group during 12 weeks after stroke (P<.001). Good tolerability to treatment was shown, and adverse events were mild and transient.Conclusion. MLC601 showed better motor recovery than placebo and was safe on top of standard ischemic stroke medications especially in the severe and moderate cases.
Primary Hyperoxaluria
Authors: Harambat Jérôme , Fargue Sonia , Bacchetta Justine , Acquaviva Cécile , Cochat Pierre
Published: June 2011

Primary hyperoxalurias (PH) are inborn errors in the metabolism of glyoxylate and oxalate. PH type 1, the most common form, is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by a deficiency of the liver-specific enzyme alanine, glyoxylate aminotransferase (AGT) resulting in overproduction and excessive urinary excretion of oxalate. Recurrent urolithiasis and nephrocalcinosis are the hallmarks of the disease. As glomerular filtration rate decreases due to progressive renal damage, oxalate accumulates leading to systemic oxalosis. Diagnosis is often delayed and is based on clinical and sonographic findings, urinary oxalate assessment, DNA analysis, and, if necessary, direct AGT activity measurement in liver biopsy tissue. Early initiation of conservative treatment, including high fluid intake, inhibitors of calcium oxalate crystallization, and pyridoxine in responsive cases, can help to maintain renal function in compliant subjects. In end-stage renal disease patients, the best outcomes have been achieved with combined liver-kidney transplantation which corrects the enzyme defect.
The Effects of Feeding on Hematological and Plasma Biochemical Profiles in Green (Chelonia mydas) and Kemp's Ridley (Lepidochelys kempii) Sea Turtles
Authors: Anderson Eric T. , Minter Larry J. , Clarke Elsburgh O. , Mroch Raymond M. , Beasley Jean F. , Harms Craig A.
Published: June 2011

In mammals, lipemic blood from sampling too soon after an animal feeds can have substantial effects on biochemical values. Plasma biochemical values in reptiles may be affected by species, age, season, and nutritional state. However, fasting status is not routinely considered when sampling reptile blood. In this paper, we evaluated 2-hour postprandial blood collection in two sea turtle species to investigate the effects of feeding on hematological and plasma biochemical values. Feeding had no significant effects on hematological values in either species, nor did it have an effect on plasma biochemistry values in Kemp's ridley sea turtles. In postprandial green turtles, total protein, albumin, ALP, AST, ALT, amylase, and cholesterol increased significantly, and chloride decreased significantly. Although statistically significant changes were observed, the median percent differences between pre- and postprandial values did not exceed 10% for any of these analytes and would not likely alter the clinical interpretation.
Carbonic Anhydrase IX as a Target for Renal Cell Carcinoma Therapy
Authors: Collier Cameron , Petrovic Snezana
Published: June 2011

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the third leading cause of death in genitourinary cancers, with a 126% increase in incidence over the past 60 years. The most common subtype of RCC, clear cell carcinoma, occurs in 7080% of RCC cases, most often caused by mutations in the Von-Hippel Lindau tumor suppressor gene. The VHL tumor suppressor protein acts to down-regulate Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1, a heterodimeric transcription factor which transactivates genes containing the Hypoxia Response Element (HRE) DNA sequences. Inactivation of this tumor suppressor leads to the stabilization of the HIF-1α subunit, driving the constituent expression of HRE-containing genes including several growth factors, and carbonic anhydrase IX. This carbonic anhydrase isoform is normally found in the gastrointestinal tract and absent in the kidney, however; it is over-expressed in clear cell RCC. Carbonic anhydrase is a ubiquitous enzyme, which maintains the acid-base balance of the cell, facilitates secretion of acid into the stomach and excretion of acid by the kidney, bone resorption, and production of cerebrospinal fluid. However, in clear cell RCC, the upregulation of CAIX has been shown to facilitate tumor progression and tumor cell invasiveness by decreasing the pH of the extracellular environment, leading to the degradation of the extracellular matrix. The specific expression pattern of CAIX makes it a useful biomarker in the diagnosis of clear cell RCC, and a strong candidate as a chemotherapeutic target. Current progress with this approach is discussed in this review.
Antituberculosis Drug-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Children
Authors: Donald Peter R.
Published: June 2011

Recent increases in the dosages of the essential antituberculosis agents isoniazid (INH), rifampicin and pyrazinamide for use in children recommended by World Health Organization have raised concerns regarding the risk of hepatotoxicity. Published data relating to the incidence and pathogenesis of antituberculosis drug-induced hepatotoxicity (ADIH), particularly in children, is reviewed. Amongst 12,708 children receiving chemoprophylaxis, mainly with INH, but also other combinations of INH, rifampicin and pyrazinamide only 1 case (0.06%) of jaundice was recorded and abnormal liver functions documented in 110 (8%) of the 1225 children studied. Excluding tuberculous meningitis (TBM) 8984 were children treated for tuberculosis disease and jaundice documented in 75 (0.83%) and abnormal liver function tests in 380 (9.9%) of the 3855 children evaluated. Amongst 717 children treated for TBM, however, jaundice occurred in 72 (10.8%) and abnormal LFT were recorded in 174 (52.9%) of those studied. Case reports document the occurrence of ADIH in at least 63 children. Signs and symptoms of ADIH were frequently ignored in the recorded cases. Conclusion: ADIH is less common in children than adults, but can occur in children at any dosage of INH, RMP or PZA, but its incidence is considerably lower than in adults. Children with disseminated forms of disease are at greater risk of ADIH.
Characterization of alkaline phosphatase activity in the North and South Pacific Subtropical Gyres: Implications for phosphorus cycling
Authors: Duhamel Solange , Björkman Karin M. , Van Wambeke France , Moutin Thierry , Karl David M.
Published: June 2011

We characterized alkaline phosphatase (AP) activity (APA) and report AP kinetic parameters in the North and South Pacific Subtropical Gyres (NPSG and SPSG, respectively) to evaluate the relative importance of APA in dissolved organic P (DOP) remineralization. APA potential hydrolysis rates were low but measurable (0.10 ± 0.06 nmol L−1 h−1, n = 12, and 0.13 ± 0.08 nmol L−1 h−1, n = 6) in surface samples from the NPSG and central SPSG, respectively. When compared to dissolved inorganic P (DIP) uptake rates, the potential utilization of DOP by APA may be important for microbial communities in these oligotrophic habitats. Assuming an upper (80%) and a lower (10%) fraction of the DOP to be AP‐hydrolyzable, APA could represent 25% ± 18% (n = 11) and 4% ± 3% (n = 11) of the DIP uptake, respectively, in surface waters of the NPSG and 147% ± 86% (n = 6) and 20% ± 12% (n = 6), respectively, in surface waters of the central SPSG. The ratio of APA to DIP uptake was significantly larger in the SPSG compared to the NPSG despite having higher DIP and lower DOP. The half‐saturation constant (Km) was in the range of DOP concentrations measured in the two gyres, meaning that microorganisms can adjust their DOP utilization according to DOP availability. Dissolved APA was a large fraction of total APA in the NPSG, contributing between 12% and 100% (41 ± 23%, n = 23) of total APA at Sta. ALOHA. Utilization of the AP‐hydrolyzable fraction of the DOP probably contributes to production in the extensive Pacific oligotrophic gyres.
Temperature‐ and cholesterol‐induced changes in eicosapentaenoic acid limitation of Daphnia magna determined by a promising method to estimate growth saturation thresholds
Authors: Sperfeld Erik , Wacker Alexander
Published: June 2011

We present data on eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)‐limited growth responses of Daphnia magna under different temperatures and different dietary cholesterol availabilities to assess how EPA growth saturation thresholds depend on changing environmental conditions. D. magna was raised on gradients of dietary EPA at 15°C and 20°C with high cholesterol supply and at 20°C with low and high cholesterol supply in laboratory experiments. A new method was applied to estimate EPA growth saturation thresholds on the basis of fitted saturation curves using bootstrapped data. The EPA threshold at which 75% and 90% of maximum growth was reached ranged from 0.7 to 1.6 μg EPA (mg dietary C)−1 and 2.0 to 4.9 μg EPA (mg dietary C)−1, respectively. Previously reported EPA concentrations in natural seston of many different lakes suggest that the thresholds measured here indicate a frequent potential for at least moderate EPA limitation in nature. Furthermore, the calculated EPA thresholds were higher in treatments of low compared with high temperature and higher in treatments of low compared with high cholesterol availability. The EPA‐dependent growth responses were more strongly affected by temperature than by cholesterol availability. Our results suggest that EPA growth saturation thresholds for a particular Daphnia species probably vary in nature under different environmental conditions.
Heterotrophic and autotrophic assimilation of fatty acids by two scleractinian corals, Montastraea faveolata and Porites astreoides
Authors: Teece Mark A. , Estes Benjamin , Gelsleichter Eric , Lirman Diego
Published: June 2011

We determined the source of fatty acids in scleractinian corals by separately measuring and comparing the δ13C values of fatty acids in zooxanthellae and coral hosts from two scleractinian coral species (Montastraea faveolata and Porites astreoides) from reefs of the Florida Reef Tract. Using an isotopic mass balance approach, we show that zooxanthellae are the dominant source of fatty acids and that in many colonies heterotrophic feeding can be an important and significant source of essential ω3 fatty acids for corals. There is considerable variability in feeding behavior within species, between species, and within single reef sites. In individual colonies, essential ω3 fatty acids and energy resources such as triglycerides can be acquired from separate dietary sources, showing the importance of resource partitioning within the coral animal. Consistently, individual coral colonies acquire most of their energy‐rich saturated fatty acids from their symbiotic zooxanthellae. The particular feeding mode by which corals acquire their fatty acids appears to be specific to each coral colony. The ability of corals to modulate their feeding modes under different environments may provide an adaptive mechanism to sustain growth under stressful conditions.
Multiple tracers demonstrate distinct sources of dissolved organic matter to lakes of the Mackenzie Delta, western Canadian Arctic
Authors: Tank Suzanne E. , Lesack Lance F. W. , Gareis Jolie A. L. , Osburn Christopher L. , Hesslein Ray H.
Published: June 2011

Lakes of the Mackenzie Delta occur across a gradient that contains three clear end members: those that remain connected to river‐water channels throughout the summer; those that receive only brief inputs of river water during an annual spring flood but contain dense macrophyte stands; and those that experience significant permafrost thaw along their margins. We measured dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration, dissolved organic matter (DOM) absorption and fluorescence, and stable isotopes of DOM, DOM precursor materials, and bacteria to elucidate the importance of river water, macrophytes, and thermokarst as DOM sources to Mackenzie Delta lakes. Despite standing stocks of macrophyte C that are sevenfold to 12‐fold greater than those of total DOC, stable isotopes indicated that autochthonous sources contributed less than 15% to overall DOM in macrophyte‐rich lakes. Instead, fluorescence and absorption indicated that the moderate summertime increase in DOC concentration in macrophyte‐rich lakes was the result of infrequent flushing, while bacterial δ13C indicated rapid bacterial removal of autochthonous DOC from the water column. In thermokarst lakes, summertime increases in DOC concentration were substantial, and stable isotopes indicated that much of this increase came from C released as a result of thermokarst‐related processes. Our results indicate that these distinct sources of DOM to neighboring arctic Delta lakes may drive between‐lake differences in C cycling and energy flow. Rapidly assimilated macrophyte DOM should be an important contributor to microbial food webs in our study lakes. In contrast, the accumulation of thermokarst‐origin DOM allows for a significant role in physico‐chemistry but indicates a lesser contribution of this DOM to higher trophic levels.
Methyl mercury dynamics in a tidal wetland quantified using in situ optical measurements
Authors: Bergamaschi B. A. , Fleck J. A. , Downing B. D. , Boss E. , Pellerin B. , Ganju N. K. , Schoellhamer D. H. , Byington A. A. , Heim W. A. , Stephenson M. , Fujii R.
Published: June 2011

We assessed monomethylmercury (MeHg) dynamics in a tidal wetland over three seasons using a novel method that employs a combination of in situ optical measurements as concentration proxies. MeHg concentrations measured over a single spring tide were extended to a concentration time series using in situ optical measurements. Tidal fluxes were calculated using modeled concentrations and bi‐directional velocities obtained acoustically. The magnitude of the flux was the result of complex interactions of tides, geomorphic features, particle sorption, and random episodic events such as wind storms and precipitation. Correlation of dissolved organic matter quality measurements with timing of MeHg release suggests that MeHg is produced in areas of fluctuating redox and not limited by buildup of sulfide. The wetland was a net source of MeHg to the estuary in all seasons, with particulate flux being much higher than dissolved flux, even though dissolved concentrations were commonly higher. Estimated total MeHg yields out of the wetland were approximately 2.5 μg m−2 yr−1—4–40 times previously published yields—representing a potential loading to the estuary of 80 g yr−1, equivalent to 3% of the river loading. Thus, export from tidal wetlands should be included in mass balance estimates for MeHg loading to estuaries. Also, adequate estimation of loads and the interactions between physical and biogeochemical processes in tidal wetlands might not be possible without long‐term, high‐frequency in situ measurements.
Diatom frustules show increased mechanical strength and altered valve morphology under iron limitation
Authors: Wilken Susanne , Hoffmann Bernd , Hersch Nils , Kirchgessner Norbert , Dieluweit Sabine , Rubner Wolfgang , Hoffmann Linn J. , Merkel Rudolf , Peeken Ilka
Published: June 2011

Iron limitation often results in increased cellular silica contents of diatoms, suggesting that diatoms grow thicker and possibly mechanically stronger frustules when limited. We performed stability measurements for six diatom species grown under iron‐limitation and iron‐sufficient conditions. Frustule strength increased in all species when grown under iron limitation, with this effect being statistically significant for four of them. Valve morphology and silica content of the pennate Fragilariopsis kerguelensis and the centric Coscinodiscus wailesii changed under iron limitation but only valve morphology changes were significant; F. kerguelensis grew thicker costae while C. wailesii had smaller pores, especially in the outer part of the valves. These morphological changes are clearly in agreement with increased mechanical strength. Increased cellular silica concentrations in diatoms grown under iron limitation do result in increased frustule strength, most likely improving their protection against grazers.
Seabed foraging by Antarctic krill: Implications for stock assessment, bentho‐pelagic coupling, and the vertical transfer of iron
Authors: Schmidt Katrin , Atkinson Angus , Steigenberger Sebastian , Fielding Sophie , Lindsay Margaret C. M. , Pond David W. , Tarling Geraint A. , Klevjer Thor A. , Allen Claire S. , Nicol Stephen , Achterberg Eric P.
Published: June 2011

A compilation of more than 30 studies shows that adult Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) may frequent benthic habitats year‐round, in shelf as well as oceanic waters and throughout their circumpolar range. Net and acoustic data from the Scotia Sea show that in summer 2‐20% of the population reside at depths between 200 and 2000 m, and that large aggregations can form above the seabed. Local differences in the vertical distribution of krill indicate that reduced feeding success in surface waters, either due to predator encounter or food shortage, might initiate such deep migrations and results in benthic feeding. Fatty acid and microscopic analyses of stomach content confirm two different foraging habitats for Antarctic krill: the upper ocean, where fresh phytoplankton is the main food source, and deeper water or the seabed, where detritus and copepods are consumed. Krill caught in upper waters retain signals of benthic feeding, suggesting frequent and dynamic exchange between surface and seabed. Krill contained up to 260 nmol iron per stomach when returning from seabed feeding. About 5% of this iron is labile, i.e., potentially available to phytoplankton. Due to their large biomass, frequent benthic feeding, and acidic digestion of particulate iron, krill might facilitate an input of new iron to Southern Ocean surface waters. Deep migrations and foraging at the seabed are significant parts of krill ecology, and the vertical fluxes involved in this behavior are important for the coupling of benthic and pelagic food webs and their elemental repositories.
Summer autotrophy and winter heterotrophy in the temperate symbiotic coral Cladocora caespitosa
Authors: Ferrier-Pagès C. , Peirano A. , Abbate M. , Cocito S. , Negri A. , Rottier C. , Riera P. , Rodolfo-Metalpa R. , Reynaud S.
Published: June 2011

Carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios (δ13C and δ15N) were determined in the zooxanthellae, host tissue, and whole symbiotic association of the symbiotic temperate coral Cladocora caespitosa, as well as in the different components of the coral's potential food sources (plankton, particulate organic matter in seawater and in the sediment). Data were collected both in winter and summer at three different locations, to assess the extent of auto‐ and heterotrophy in this species and get a better understanding of the functioning of temperate symbioses. There was a marked seasonal difference in the signature of the zooxanthellae and host tissue, highlighting two clear feeding patterns. In summer, δ13C signatures of the coral host and the zooxanthellae were similar (‐17‰) and very different from the signature of the food sources (from ‐21‰ to ‐25‰), suggesting that corals were relying on autotrophy for the acquisition of carbon. δ15N values also suggested that nitrogen was not acquired through feeding. Conversely, in winter, the δ13C signature of the host decreased by ca. ‐23‰ to ‐28‰, and was more comparable to the signature of the external food sources (between ‐24‰ and ‐25‰), suggesting a substantial reliance of C. caespitosa on external food sources during this season. There was also a 3‰ enrichment between the δ15N signatures of the food (4‐5‰) and the signature of the symbiotic association (7‐8‰), suggesting that nitrogen was also acquired through feeding. Overall, these results give evidence that C. caespitosa and temperate corals in general derive a large fraction of their energy from heterotrophic feeding in winter.
Phytoplankton growth in three rivers: The role of meroplankton and the benthic retention hypothesis
Authors: Istvànovic Vera , Honti Màrk
Published: June 2011

We analyzed long‐term (5‐8 yr) hourly time series of chlorophyll (Chl) converted from fluorescence measurements in relation to discharge and light in three medium‐ to large‐size rivers, where planktonic diatoms dominated during the growing season. Overall, there was an inverse relationship between discharge and Chl. At fine temporal scales, flow pulses were typically accompanied by an increase in diatom Chl. In contrast, chlorophytes were usually diluted. The increase in diatoms was likely due to resuspension of meroplanktonic species from the bottom. The benthic retention hypothesis proposes that rapidly sedimenting diatoms take advantage of a prolonged benthic residence provided that the enhanced retention is sufficient to compensate for slower light‐supported growth at the bottom relative to water. This hypothesis was tested with simple growth models. Although the rivers were highly turbid and did not support net growth when flow exceeded a rather low threshold, benthic retention might have favored low‐light–adapted algae during more than half of the period when net growth was possible. Among the physical factors, the rate of resuspension might be the critical factor that determines the ultimate success of a meroplanktonic life cycle strategy. The three rivers of this study rarely supported persistent planktonic populations. We propose that self‐sustaining populations of riverine algae are primarily based on meroplanktonic diatom species, whereas truly planktonic populations, mostly chlorophytes, depend on periodic inoculations from out‐of‐channel sources.
Novel application of satellite and in-situ measurements to map surface-level NO2 in the Great Lakes region
Authors: Lee C. J. , Brook J. R. , Evans G. J. , Martin R. V. , Mihele C.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) tropospheric NO2 vertical column density data were used in conjunction with in-situ NO2 concentrations collected by permanently installed monitoring stations to infer 24 h surface-level NO2 concentrations at 0.1° (~ 11 km) resolution. The region examined included rural and suburban areas, and the highly industrialised area of Windsor, Ontario, which is situated directly across the US-Canada border from Detroit, MI. Photolytic NO2 monitors were collocated with standard NO2 monitors to provide qualitative data regarding NOz interference during the campaign. To test the accuracy of the OMI-inferred concentrations, two-week integrative NO2 measurements were collected using passive monitors at 18 locations, approximating a 15 km grid across the region, for 7 consecutive two-week periods. When compared with these passive results, satellite-inferred concentrations showed an 18 % positive bias. The correlation of the passive monitor and OMI-inferred concentrations (R = 0.69, n = 115) was stronger than that for the passive monitor concentrations and OMI column densities (R = 0.52), indicating that using a sparse network of monitoring sites to estimate concentrations improves the direct utility of the OMI observations. OMI-inferred concentrations were then calculated for four years to show an overall declining trend in surface NO2 concentrations in the region. Additionally, by separating OMI-inferred surface concentrations by wind direction, clear patterns in emissions and affected down-wind regions, in particular around the US-Canada border, were revealed.
Aerosol concentration and size distribution measured below, in, and above cloud from the DOE G-1 during VOCALS-REx
Authors: Kleinman L. I. , Daum P. H. , Lee Y.-N. , Lewis E. R. , Sedlacek A. J. , Senum G. I. , Springston S. R. , Wang J. , Hubbe J. , Jayne J. , Min Q. , Yum S. S. , Allen G.
Published: June 2011

Abstract. During the VOCALS Regional Experiment, the DOE G-1 aircraft was used to sample a varying aerosol environment pertinent to properties of stratocumulus clouds over a longitude band extending 800 km west from the Chilean coast at Arica. Trace gas and aerosol measurements are presented as a function of longitude, altitude, and dew point in this study. Spatial distributions are consistent with an upper atmospheric source for O3 and South American coastal sources for marine boundary layer (MBL) CO and aerosol, most of which is acidic sulfate in agreement with the dominant pollution source being SO2 from Cu smelters and power plants. Pollutant layers in the free troposphere (FT) can be a result of emissions to the north in Peru or long range transport from the west. At a given altitude in the FT (up to 3 km), dew point varies by 40 °C with dry air descending from the upper atmospheric and moist air having a BL contribution. Ascent of BL air to a cold high altitude results in the condensation and precipitation removal of all but a few percent of BL water along with aerosol that served as CCN. Thus, aerosol volume decreases with dew point in the FT. Aerosol size spectra have a bimodal structure in the MBL and an intermediate diameter unimodal distribution in the FT. Comparing cloud droplet number concentration (CDNC) and pre-cloud aerosol (Dp > 100 nm) gives a linear relation up to a number concentration of ~150 cm−3, followed by a less than proportional increase in CDNC at higher aerosol number concentration. A number balance between below cloud aerosol and cloud droplets indicates that ~25 % of aerosol in the PCASP size range are interstitial (not activated). One hundred and two constant altitude cloud transects were identified and used to determine properties of interstitial aerosol. One transect is examined in detail as a case study. Approximately 25 to 50 % of aerosol with Dp > 110 nm were not activated, the difference between the two approaches possibly representing shattered cloud droplets or unknown artifact. CDNC and interstitial aerosol were anti-correlated in all cloud transects, consistent with the occurrence of dry in-cloud areas due to entrainment or circulation mixing.
Solidification and Leachability of Cr (VI) in Rice Husk Ash-Blended Cement
Authors: Jain Neeraj
Published: June 2011

Investigations carried out to study the effect of Cr (VI) (1000–3000 mg/l) on solidification and hydration behavior of Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and rice husk ash (RHA) blended (10%, 20%, and 30%) cement show that addition of RHA accelerates final setting as compared to control samples (OPC) and retardation in setting time has been observed on increase in rice husk ash concentration (10%–30%). Solidification studies show that the compressive strength of controls and rice husk ash blended samples increases with increase in the curing period and maximum strength was observed with 20% RHA blended samples. With the increase in Cr (VI) concentrations, the strength of OPC and RHA blended samples decreases as compared to controls (without chromium). The results of Toxicity Characteristics Leaching Procedure (TCLP) test, (pH≅3), show that the retention capacity of OPC and RHA blended samples was in the range of 92% to 99% and the leached Cr (VI) concentration was under the allowable limit (5 mg/l) of U.S. EPA. The chemistry of influence of Cr (VI) on hydration of cement was examined by X-ray diffraction which shows the formation of various crystalline phases during solidification in rice hush ash blended cement.
A Retrospective Analysis to Validate the Alarm Signs Used in the CEDAP-Plus Study
Authors: Zhang Hou-De , Lin Mu-Xian , Zhang Qu
Published: June 2011

Background and Study Aim. This study aimed to validate the alarm signs used in the 2007 German CEDAP-Plus study for indicating capsule endoscopy in patients who have idiopathic chronic abdominal pain. Patients and Methods. We retrospectively reviewed the cases of all patients who underwent capsule endoscopy at our institution between August 2007 and August 2009 for chronic hitherto undiagnosed abdominal pain, despite previous investigations. The demographic data, indications, findings, and diagnoses were recorded, as were the alarm signs (i.e., 10% loss of weight within 3 months, suspected small intestinal bleed or chronic anemia, and laboratory indications of inflammation). Results. Alarm signs were found in only 4 of the 62 included patients. Capsule endoscopy revealed findings that led to diagnoses of Crohn's disease (), tuberculosis (), gastrointestinal stromal tumors (), and hookworm (); these diagnoses included 100% (4/4) of the patients with alarm signs, but only 8.6% (5/58) of patients without them. However, 55.6% (5/9) of patients with clinically capsule endoscopy findings reported no alarm signs. Conclusions. Although selecting patients based on the alarm signs may increase the yield of capsule endoscopy, the alarm sign criteria appear to have low sensitivity.
Chronic Hypoxia Emerging as One of the Driving Forces behind Gene
Expression and Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: van Pelt Jos F. , van Malenstein Hannah , Nevens Frederik , Verslype Chris
Published: June 2011

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most frequent malignant tumors and an important cause of death. It has become evident that the tumor microenvironment, including hypoxia, plays a major role in the development of HCC. This paper focuses on the role of chronic hypoxia in HCC. Recently, we have shown the importance of chronic hypoxia on gene expression and behavior of liver cells. Using a cell culture model, we identified a distinct gene expression pattern and demonstrated clinical relevance for a 7-gene subset that can predict survival and early recurrence in patients. Recently, it was also shown that chronic hypoxia is associated with the upregulation of β-catenin and Hif1α and that suppression of β-catenin reduced the metastatic potential of the tumor.
Both studies demonstrate the importance of chronic hypoxia for the prognosis of HCC. Identifying the molecular pathways can help us to understand the mechanisms responsible for tumor aggressiveness.
On Paranormed Ideal Convergent Generalized Difference Strongly Summable Sequence Spaces Defined over n-Normed Spaces
Authors: Hazarika Bipan
Published: June 2011

We introduce a new class of ideal convergent (shortly I-convergent) sequence spaces using an Orlicz function and difference operator of order defined over the n-normed spaces. We investigate these spaces for some linear topological structures. These investigations will enhance the acceptability of the notion of n-norm by giving a way to construct different sequence spaces with elements in n-normed spaces. We also give some relations related to these sequence spaces.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Group Intervention Approach for Nurses Exposed to Violent Speech or Violence Caused by Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Inoue Makoto , Kaneko Fumiko , Okamura Hitoshi
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a group intervention approach aimed at improving the mental health of psychiatric nurses exposed to violent speech/violence. Sixty-two nurses having experienced serious episodes of violent speech/violence were enrolled in this study. A group intervention approach was used in the intervention group. For both the intervention and the control groups, evaluations were conducted at three time points. Evaluations were conducted using the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) and Profile of Mood States (POMS). The results showed that changes in the flashback, hyper-arousal, avoidance behavior, and total scores on the IES-R and anxiety and depression scores on the POMS differed significantly between the two groups. These results suggest that a group intervention approach can lessen the psychological burden of nurses exposed to violence and reduce their mental stress.
The protein Z/protein Z-dependent protease inhibitor complex
Authors: Vasse M.
Published: June 2011

Protein Z (PZ) is a vitamin K-dependent factor identified in human plasma in 1984 but it has no enzymatic activity. It is a cofactor of a serpin, the protein Z-dependent protease inhibitor (ZPI), and the complex PZ/ZPI inhibits activated factor X on phospholipid surfaces. In mice, the disruption of PZ or ZPI gene is asymptomatic, but enhances the thrombotic phenotype and mortality of other thrombotic risk factors. Most of the clinical studies focused on PZ. Despite conflicting results, a recent meta-analysis indicated that PZ deficiency could be a risk for venous and arterial thrombosis and early fetal loss. However, these conclusions are drawn from case-control studies of small size, constituting an important limitation. Recently, it was shown that PZ and/or ZPI are synthesised by normal kidney and different cancer cells, suggesting that the complex PZ/ZPI could play a role in inhibiting the tissue deposition of fibrin. The physiopathological consequences of these observations remain to be established. At this time, the measurement of plasma PZ and ZPI or analysis of their gene polymorphisms should not be performed routinely for the exploration of thrombophilia.
Decifra-me ou devoro-te. uma reflexão sobre a percepção e instrumentalização das noções de texto e contexto no ensino de história e literatura.
Authors: Alves Geraldo José
Published: June 2011

Este artigo discute alguns aspectos envolvidos na percepção e na instrumentalização dos conceitos de texto e contexto elaborados em cursos de ensino superior na área de ciências humanas e sociais. Verificando que estas percepções constituem formas estereotipadas, o texto procura revelar as manifestações práticas produzidas a partir das formulações específicas constituídas. Problematizando o tema, o artigo procura delinear os aspectos epistemológicos envolvidos na constituição do campo texto-leitor como produto das tensas relações sociais de produção de sentido.
Do poético-mítico ao poético-científico: a eterna busca de nossas origens
Authors: Fusaro Márcia Do Carmo Felismino
Published: June 2011

A arte e a ciência já foram consideradas duas áreas do saber sem muitas relações possíveis no meio acadêmico mais conservador. Porém, as abordagens interdisciplinares mais recentes nos mostram a possibilidade de uma interessante confluência entre ambas, uma vez que, em essência, tanto o cientista quanto o artista tocam pontos em comum em seus meios de expressão.
Letramento: perspectivas e implicações para a educação
Authors: Jaeger Eliana Vogel
Published: June 2011

Pretende-se, com este artigo, fazer uma reflexão a respeito do letramento1com base em algumas concepções de letrados e supostamente iletrados, suas implicações ou perspectivas para a educação e como esses conceitos foram construídos ao longo do tempo. Constatando que o processo de letramento escolar, para boa parte dos educadores, ainda está ligado à alfabetização e ao ato de ensinar a ler e escrever, propõe-se uma análise das práticas letradas escolares como um tipo de prática social de letramento, centrada na função social de comunicação, como discurso em linguagem oral ou escrita que produz entendimento entre os envolvidos e não uma forma de imposição do saber, que negligencia elementos de saber adquiridos na construção do conhecimento.
O ponto de vista enunciativo sobre a linguagem: a modalização no discurso da Igreja Universal do Reino de Deus
Authors: Torresan Jorge Luís
Published: June 2011

No universo dos estudos da Lingüística, encontramos uma série de possibilidades de ordem teórico-metodológica para analisar os discursos que nos envolvem e nos quais nos envolvemos. Por meio da Análise de Discurso, este artigo traz uma reflexão sobre o discurso que uma das igrejas do movimento evangélico brasileiro propõe para os seus fiéis à luz dos aspectos da modalização, mostrando como uma determinada instituição religiosa, por meio de um processo de manipulação da linguagem, consegue aprisionar as atenções de um grande número de pessoas.
Formação de professores e relações interpessoais
Authors: Gaspar Maria Aurora Dias
Published: June 2011

Este artigo discute aspectos relevantes à formação docente, considerando o âmbito das relações interpessoais entre professor-aluno e seus desdobramentos. As relações interpessoais devem ser entendidas como momento fundamental do processo de formação dos professores, uma vez que colaboram para a construção de sua identidade pessoal e profi ssional. Dessa forma, as relações interpessoais, tanto quanto a capacidade técnica e teórica, constituem elementos essenciais à formação de professores.
Psicanálise e educação: possibilidades de interlocução para a formação de professores
Authors: Grandino Patrícia Junqueira
Published: June 2011

O diálogo entre psicanálise e educação apresenta-se, em geral, polêmico e controvertido. Destacam-se, na bibliografia existente, as considerações sobre as distinções dos âmbitos de atuação e limitações epistemológicas. Entretanto, os questionamentos que a educação propõe à psicanálise, bem como os desafios que as questões educacionais apresentam à sociedade, mantêm abertas as possibilidades de interlocução. Pretendemos destacar as possibilidades de interlocução que o saber psicanalítico pode oferecer à formação de professores, enfatizando, nesse sentido, o lugar da dimensão relacional nas ações educativas e a potencialização dos sujeitos implicados no cotidiano educacional.
A cruz e a família contra a foice e o martelo. O anticomunismo no movimento operário de São Paulo (1950-1964)
Authors: Neto Murilo Leal Pereira
Published: June 2011

Neste texto, analisa-se a construção de uma representação conservadora da sociedade entre os operários metalúrgicos de São Paulo, no período de 1950 a 1953, e sua retomada às vésperas do golpe civil-militar de 1964. Apresenta os diversos aspectos que compõem essa representação e aponta os elementos que possibilitam interpretar o significado da participação de setores operários, em apoio ao golpe de 1964.
A aplicabilidade dos conceitos bourdieunianos de habitus e campo em uma pesquisa na área da História da Educação
Authors: Silva Machado Bispo dos Santos Pablo
Published: June 2011

Pretendemos, neste trabalho, analisar a operacionalidade de dois conceitos criados por Pierre Bourdieu, com alcance de amplo espectro, para o trabalho de pesquisa em ciências sociais (BOURDIEU, 2004). Trata-se dos conceitos de habitus e campo, concebidos pelo eminente sociólogo francês como verdadeiras ferramentas operacionais de suporte ao trabalho de pesquisa. Nesse sentido, cabe mencionar que buscamos explorar algumas das possibilidades de utilização desses conceitos em uma pesquisa histórica, posto que sua versatilidade, em termos de riqueza conceitual, extrapola os limites da Sociologia, podendo ser empregados também em outros campos das Ciências Sociais, como a História, e, mais precisamente, a história da Educação. Este trabalho é composto das seguintes partes: a) Breve explanação dos conceitos de habitus e campo; b) A aplicabilidade dos conceitos em uma pesquisa no campo da história da Educação; c) Considerações finais.
Educação especial: comentários a respeito da Constituição Federal de 1988 e da Constituição Mineira 1989
Authors: Sahb Warlley Ferreira
Published: June 2011

Este artigo apresenta, numa abordagem comparativa sem valor depreciativo, uma análise acerca da educação especial, tomando como referência os textos da Constituição Federal de 1988 (CF88) e da Constituição do Estado de Minas Gerais de 1989 (CMG 89). Para tanto, realizou-se um levantamento da legislação nacional, não só dos textos constitucionais, mas também de legislações correlatas e complementares, tais como a LDB, de 1996, o Estatuto da Criança e do Adolescente, o Plano Nacional de Educação, entre outros documentos normativos de amplitude nacional. É importante destacar a função complementar que fica evidente ao se analisarem os textos legais brasileiros, sobretudo dos Estados. O que se observa é que a CMG 89 avança em alguns pontos, exatamente por gozar de autonomia administrativa para tal, respeitados os preceitos constitucionais.
A prática da formatura na educação superior: apontamentos para uma reflexão
Authors: Avelar Ediana Abreu
Published: June 2011

Neste estudo, tenciona-se identificar e analisar o sentido do rito da colação de grau no ensino superior, cuja significação permanece inalterada desde a sua institucionalização. Nesta investigação, descreve-se a acepção das formaturas atuais para destacar a realização desse ato institucional, cujos aspectos se realizam, repetidamente, de modo acrítico. A outorga do grau é uma ação obrigatória para os concluintes da educação superior, mas os arranjos festivos para a realização da formatura solene deslocam a atenção dos sujeitos participantes, levando-os a uma representação alienada de pouco controle nos espaços acadêmicos.
O estágio supervisionado nos cursos de graduação em Educação Física: um desafio presente nesta formação
Authors: Moraes Enny Vieira , Cabral Alantiara Peixoto , Souza Luanda Nogueira , De Alcântara Manuela Soares
Published: June 2011

Neste artigo, discute-se o estágio supervisionado, como disciplina curricular obrigatória, nas licenciaturas em Educação Física, além dos desafios presentes na relação entre formação profissional e ética na escola pública. Essa proposta amplia-se quando a ótica adotada para discutir tais desafios envolve não apenas a visão de docentes, mas também a visão dos discentes. Concluiu-se que o estágio, um momento desafiador na formação, produz a consciência da importância do profissional da educação e de sua participação como agente questionador da realidade.
O professor pesquisador e pesquisador professor: uma questão retórica?
Authors: Dittrich Ivo José
Published: June 2011

No Ensino Superior, especialmente nas licenciaturas, a relação entre ensino e pesquisa apresenta-se particularmente complexa: além de exigir que o docente domine o objeto específico de sua área do conhecimento, impõe que conheça o processo teórico-metodológico que assegure ao acadêmico, potencial professor no futuro, o acesso a esse conhecimento. Não lhe basta conhecer o objeto de sua área de pesquisa; será preciso saber, também, como fazer a transposição didática desse conhecimento técnico-científico para um nível acessível ao acadêmico, sem distorções ou excessiva superficialidade. Assim, a tese central deste artigo remete à relação solidária entre ensino e pesquisa como requisito fundamental para a docência no ensino superior. Além disso, aponta para a retórica e a argumentação como interfaces respectivas que ajudam a situar e a compreender a complexa natureza da arte de ser, ao mesmo tempo, professor e pesquisador.
Sob(re) o tênue fio: filosofia e literatura
Authors: Corrêa da Cruz Bacic Fratric Glauco , Pedrozo Rocha Paulo Roberto
Published: June 2011

A proximidade entre filosofia e literatura não é nova no pensamento europeu. Embora, à moda de Lukács, possam ser citados romances com “cunho filosófico”, numa espécie de despertar do sono “kantiano” da ingenuidade (Lukács, p.71) – “O romance é a forma da virilidade madura, em contraposição à puerilidade normativa da epopéia” – foi no século XVIII que presenciou, sobretudo na França, a aparição dos mais significativos romances filosóficos.
Literatura Infantil e formação do leitor: a utilização dos clássicos adaptados no Ensino Fundamental I e II
Authors: De Cássia Olivério Couto Rita , Carvalho Avellar Gláucia
Published: June 2011

Estuda-se, neste trabalho, a inserção da literatura infantil no Ensino Fundamental I e II, procurando valorizar seu emprego como forma de trabalhar os clássicos da literatura universal para que o aluno, desde cedo, tenha contato com essas obras e amadureça como leitor.
A narrativa no gênero “relato de testemunho religioso”
Authors: Luís Torresan Jorge , Jardelino da Costa Murilo
Published: June 2011

Neste artigo, nosso objetivo consiste é analisar as relações que se estabelecem em uma prática social específica, a saber, “o culto religioso”, entre a atividade humana “dar um testemunho” e os tipos e o gênero de discurso que se vinculam a essa prática. Verifica-se que, nessa pretensa atividade de linguagem dialogada, o fiel exerce o papel de ventríloquo, ou seja, a instituição religiosa se apodera da fala do fiel para dar continuidade ao seu discurso, o que nos permite, a princípio, falar numa subversão do gênero relato de testemunho. Para alcançar nosso objetivo, selecionamos, em nossa prática de análise, como fundamentação teórico-metodológica, considerações sobre gênero de discurso, tipologia textual e aspectos da narrativa. A análise teve como objeto quatro relatos de testemunho, concedidos por fiéis da Igreja Universal do Reino Deus e publicados no jornal Folha Universal – Um jornal a serviço de Deus, de propriedade dessa instituição religiosa.
A atividade de ensino na formação tecnológica: processo de formação de professores e alunos
Authors: De Oliveira Wellington
Published: June 2011

Discute-se, por meio deste artigo, o papel desempenhado pelos professores e alunos na formação tecnológica e o seu impacto na constituição de um processo pedagógico virtual. Com base em autores como Oliveira (2009), Freire (2008), Kenski (2003) e Valente (2002), analisa-se a mudança das formas de interação entre quem aprende e quem ensina e a mudança do modo como se reflete sobre a natureza do conhecimento em ambientes virtuais de aprendizagem.
Water‐Soluble Conjugated Polymers for Amplified Fluorescence Detection of Template‐Independent DNA Elongation Catalyzed by Polymerase
Authors: He Fang , Liu Libing , Li Lidong
Published: June 2011

A series of water‐soluble polyfluorene derivatives containing diketopyrrolopyrrole derivative units are synthesized and characterized. These copolymers, poly[9,9'‐bis(6”‐N,N,N‐trimethyl ammonium) hexylfluorene‐co‐alt‐2,5‐bis (6”‐N,N,N‐trimethylammonium)hexylpyrrolo[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐1,4(2H,5H)‐dione] (PFDPN), demonstrate intramolecular energy transfer from the fluorene units to the diketopyrrolopyrrole derivative units, and show red‐shifted emissions in aqueous solution. The PFDPN polymers can combine with Cy5‐labeled ssDNA by electrostatic interactions and efficiently amplify the fluorescence signal of red Cy5 dye through fluorescence resonance energy transfer. Moreover, based on DNA replacement method, this amplification system can be used to monitor the template‐independent DNA elongation process catalyzed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase.