bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal Sex Affects Expression of Renin-Angiotensin System Components in Term Human Decidua
Authors: Wang Yu , Pringle Kirsty G. , Sykes Shane D. , Marques Francine Z. , Morris Brian J. , Zakar Tamas , Lumbers Eugenie R.
Published: November 2011

The maternal decidua expresses the genes of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). Human decidua was collected at term either before labor (i.e. cesarean delivery) or after spontaneous labor. The mRNA for prorenin (REN), prorenin receptor (ATP6AP2), angiotensinogen (AGT), angiotensin-converting enzymes 1 and 2 (ACE1 and ACE2), angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AGTR1), and angiotensin 1–7 receptor (MAS1) were measured by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. Decidual explants were cultured in duplicate for 24 and 48 h, and all RAS mRNA, and the secretion of prorenin, angiotensin II, and angiotensin 1–7 was measured using quantitative real-time RT-PCR, ELISA, and radioimmunoassay, respectively. In the decidua collected before labor, REN mRNA levels were higher if the fetus was female. In addition, REN, ATP6AP2, AGT, and MAS1 mRNA abundance was greater in decidual explants collected from women carrying a female fetus, as was prorenin protein. After 24 h, ACE1 mRNA was higher in the decidual explants from women with a male fetus, whereas after 48 h, both ACE1 and ACE2 mRNA was higher in decidual explants from women with a female fetus. Angiotensin II was present in all explants, but angiotensin 1–7 levels often registered below the lower limits of sensitivity for the assay. After labor, decidua, when compared with nonlaboring decidua, demonstrated lower REN expression when the fetus was female. Therefore, the maternal decidual RAS is regulated in a sex-specific manner, suggesting that it may function differently when the fetus is male than when it is female.
The ‘gender gap’ in authorship in nursing literature
Authors: Shields Linda , Hall Jenny , Mamun Abdulla A
Published: November 2011

Objectives

Gender bias has been found in medical literature, with more men than women as first or senior authors of papers, despite about half of doctors being women. Nursing is about 90% female, so we aimed to determine if similar biases exist in nursing literature.

Design

Taking the eight non-specialist nursing journals with the highest impact factors for that profession, we counted the numbers of men and women first authors over 30 years.

Setting

We used nursing journals from around the world which attract the highest impact factors for nursing publication.

Participants

Eight journals qualified for entry, three from the United Kingdom, four from the United States of America, and one from Australia.

Main outcome measures

Using Chi-square and Fisher exact tests, we determined differences between the numbers of men and women across all the journals, between countries (USA, UK and Australia), changes over the 30 years, and changes within journals over time.

Results

Despite the small proportion of men in the nursing workforce, up to 30% of first authors were men. UK journals were more likely to have male authors than USA journals, and this increased over time. USA journals had proportions of male first authors consistent with the male proportion of its nursing workforce.

Conclusions

In the UK (though not in the USA) gender bias in nursing publishing exists, even though the nursing workforce is strongly feminized. This warrants further research, but is likely to be due to the same reasons for the gender gap in medical publishing; that is, female nurses take time out to have families, and social and family responsibilities prevent them taking opportunities for career progression, whereas men's careers often are not affected in such ways.
Dopamine Effects on Human Error Processing Depend on Catechol-O-Methyltransferase VAL158MET Genotype
Authors: Mueller Erik M. , Makeig Scott , Stemmler Gerhard , Hennig Jürgen , Wacker Jan
Published: November 2011

Brain dopamine (DA) has been linked to error processing. Because high and low (vs medium) prefrontal cortex (PFC) DA levels may facilitate D2-receptor-related modulations of PFC neural activation patterns, we hypothesized that high and low DA predicts increased error-specific transitions of PFC activity. Male human participants (n= 169) were genotyped for thecatechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) Val158Met polymorphism, associated with low (Val) and medium (Met) PFC DA levels. In addition,DRD2TaqIa and 5-HTTLPR, associated with striatal D2receptor density and serotonin uptake, respectively, were assessed. Participants received placebo or a selective DA–D2receptor blocker (sulpiride, 200 mg) and performed a Flanker task. EEG was recorded and decomposed into independent brain components (ICs) using independent component analysis. After errors, participants displayed (1) a negative deflection in ICs source-localized to the proximity of the anterior midcingulate cortex [IC-error-related negativity (IC-ERN)], (2) increased midcingulate cortex IC power in the delta/theta frequency range, and (3) slowing in the subsequent trial [posterror slowing (PES)]. Importantly, all, IC-ERN, delta/theta power, and PES were modulated byCOMT× Substance interactions such that the Val allele predicted elevated IC-ERN, delta/theta power, and PES after placebo; this association was reversed under sulpiride. Because low doses of sulpiride presumably increase PFC DA levels, theCOMT× Substance interaction supports the hypothesis that low (Val, placebo) and high (Met, sulpiride) versus medium (Val, sulpiride; Met, placebo) DA levels elevate reactivity to errors. Consistent with an influence of serotonin on PFC DA, theCOMT× Substance interaction was modulated by5-HTTLPR.
A New Prospero andmicroRNA-279Pathway Restricts CO2Receptor Neuron Formation
Authors: Hartl Marion , Loschek Laura F. , Stephan Daniel , Siju K. P. , Knappmeyer Christiane , Kadow Ilona C. Grunwald
Published: November 2011

CO2sensation represents an interesting example of nervous system and behavioral evolutionary divergence. The underlying molecular mechanisms, however, are not understood. Loss ofmicroRNA-279inDrosophila melanogasterleads to the formation of a CO2sensory system partly similar to the one of mosquitoes. Here, we show that a novel allele of the pleiotropic transcription factor Prospero resembles themiR-279phenotype. We use a combination of genetics andin vitroandin vivoanalysis to demonstrate that Pros participates in the regulation ofmiR-279expression, and that reexpression ofmiR-279rescues theprosCO2neuron phenotype. We identify common target molecules ofmiR-279and Pros in bioinformatics analysis, and show that overexpression of the transcription factors Nerfin-1 and Escargot (Esg) is sufficient to induce formation of CO2neurons on maxillary palps. Our results suggest that Prospero restricts CO2neuron formation indirectly viamiR-279and directly by repressing the shared target molecules, Nerfin-1 and Esg, during olfactory system development. Given the important role of Pros in differentiation of the nervous system, we anticipate that miR-mediated signal tuning represents a powerful method for olfactory sensory system diversification during evolution.
Light-Evoked Lateral GABAergic Inhibition at Single Bipolar Cell Synaptic Terminals Is Driven by Distinct Retinal Microcircuits
Authors: Vigh Jozsef , Vickers Evan , von Gersdorff Henrique
Published: November 2011

Inhibitory amacrine cells (ACs) filter visual signals crossing the retina by modulating the excitatory, glutamatergic output of bipolar cells (BCs) on multiple temporal and spatial scales. Reciprocal feedback from ACs provides focal inhibition that is temporally locked to the activity of presynaptic BC activity, whereas lateral feedback originates from ACs excited by distant BCs. These distinct feedback mechanisms permit temporal and spatial computation at BC terminals. Here, we used a unique preparation to study light-evoked IPSCs recorded from axotomized terminals of ON-type mixed rod/cone BCs (Mb) in goldfish retinal slices. In this preparation, light-evoked IPSCs could only reach axotomized BC terminals via the lateral feedback pathway, allowing us to study lateral feedback in the absence of overlapping reciprocal feedback components. We found that light evokes ON and OFF lateral IPSCs (L-IPSCs) in Mb terminals having different temporal patterns and conveyed via distinct retinal pathways. The relative contribution of rods versus cones to ON and OFF L-IPSCs was light intensity dependent. ACs presynaptic to Mb BC terminals received inputs via AMPA/KA- and NMDA-type receptors in both the ON and OFF pathways, and used TTX-sensitive sodium channels to boost signal transfer along their processes. ON and OFF L-IPSCs, like reciprocal feedback IPSCs, were mediated by both GABAAand GABACreceptors. However, our results suggest that lateral and reciprocal feedback do not cross-depress each other, and are therefore mediated by distinct populations of ACs. These findings demonstrate that retinal inhibitory circuits are highly specialized to modulate BC output at different light intensities.
Opposing Roles of Voltage-Gated Ca2+Channels in Neuronal Control of Regenerative Patterning
Authors: Zhang Dan , Chan John D. , Nogi Taisaku , Marchant Jonathan S.
Published: November 2011

There is intense interest in developing methods to regulate proliferation and differentiation of stem cells into neuronal fates for the purposes of regenerative medicine. One way to do this is throughin vivopharmacological engineering using small molecules. However, a key challenge is identification of relevant signaling pathways and therein druggable targets to manipulate stem cell behavior efficientlyin vivo. Here, we use the planarian flatworm as a simple chemical-genetic screening model for nervous system regeneration to show that the isoquinoline drug praziquantel (PZQ) acts as a small molecule neurogenic to produce two-headed animals with integrated CNSs following regeneration. Characterization of the entire family of planarian voltage-operated Ca2+channel α subunits (Cavα), followed byin vivoRNAi of specific Cavsubunits, revealed that PZQ subverted regeneration by activation of a specific voltage-gated Ca2+channel isoform (Cav1A). PZQ-evoked Ca2+entry via Cav1A served to inhibit neuronally derived Hedgehog signals, as evidenced by data showing that RNAi of Cav1A prevented PZQ-evoked bipolarity, Ca2+entry, and decreases inwnt1andwnt11-5levels. Surprisingly, the action of PZQ was opposed by Ca2+influx through a closely related neuronal Cavisoform (Cav1B), establishing a novel interplay between specific Cav1 channel isoforms, Ca2+entry, and neuronal Hedgehog signaling. These data map PZQ efficacy to specific neuronal Cavcomplexesin vivoand underscore that both activators (Cav1A) and inhibitors (Cav1B) of Ca2+influx can act as small molecule neurogenicsin vivoon account of the unique coupling of Ca2+channels to neuronally derived polarity cues.
The Relationship between Brain Oscillations and BOLD Signal during Memory Formation: A Combined EEG–fMRI Study
Authors: Hanslmayr Simon , Volberg Gregor , Wimber Maria , Raabe Markus , Greenlee Mark W. , Bäuml Karl-Heinz T.
Published: November 2011

Previous studies demonstrated that increases in the theta frequency band with concomitant decreases in the alpha/beta frequency band indicate successful memory formation. However, little is known about the brain regions and the cognitive processes that underlie these encoding-related oscillatory memory effects. We investigated this relationship using simultaneous EEG–fMRI recordings in humans during long-term memory encoding. In line with prior studies, we demonstrate that a decrease in beta power and an increase in theta power positively predict subsequent recall. In fMRI, stronger activity in the left inferior prefrontal cortex and the right parahippocampal gyrus correlated with successful memory formation. EEG source localization revealed that the subsequent memory effect in the beta band was localized in the left inferior prefrontal cortex, whereas the effect in the theta band was localized in medial temporal lobe regions. Trial-by-trial correlations between EEG and BOLD activity showed that beta power correlated negatively with left inferior prefrontal cortex activity. This correlation was more pronounced for items that could later be successfully recalled compared to items later forgotten. Based on these findings, we suggest that beta oscillations in the left inferior prefrontal cortex indicate semantic encoding processes, whereas theta oscillations in the medial temporal lobe reflect the binding of an item to its spatiotemporal context.
Presynaptic Gating of Postsynaptically Expressed Plasticity at Mature Thalamocortical Synapses
Authors: Blundon Jay A. , Bayazitov Ildar T. , Zakharenko Stanislav S.
Published: November 2011

Thalamocortical (TC) projections provide the major pathway for ascending sensory information to the mammalian neocortex. Arrays of these projections form synaptic inputs on thalamorecipient neurons, thus contributing to the formation of receptive fields (RFs) in sensory cortices. Experience-dependent plasticity of RFs persists throughout an organism's life span but in adults requires activation of cholinergic inputs to the cortex. In contrast, synaptic plasticity at TC projections is limited to the early postnatal period. This disconnect led to the widespread belief that TC synapses are the principal site of RF plasticity only in neonatal sensory cortices, but that they lose this plasticity upon maturation. Here, we tested an alternative hypothesis that mature TC projections do not lose synaptic plasticity but rather acquire gating mechanisms that prevent the induction of synaptic plasticity. Using whole-cell recordings and direct measures of postsynaptic and presynaptic activity (two-photon glutamate uncaging and two-photon imaging of the FM 1-43 assay, respectively) at individual synapses in acute mouse brain slices that contain the auditory thalamus and cortex, we determined that long-term depression (LTD) persists at mature TC synapses but is gated presynaptically. Cholinergic activation releases presynaptic gating through M1muscarinic receptors that downregulate adenosine inhibition of neurotransmitter release acting through A1adenosine receptors. Once presynaptic gating is released, mature TC synapses can express LTD postsynaptically through group I metabotropic glutamate receptors. These results indicate that synaptic plasticity at TC synapses is preserved throughout the life span and, therefore, may be a cellular substrate of RF plasticity in both neonate and mature animals.
Gonadal status of male recipient mice influences germ cell development in immature buffalo testis tissue xenograft
Authors: Reddy Niranjan , Mahla Ranjeet Singh , Thathi Revanth , Suman Sanjay Kumar , Jose Jedy , Goel Sandeep
Published: November 2011

Growth and development of immature testis xenograft from various domestic mammals has been shown in mouse recipients; however, buffalo testis xenografts have not been reported to date. In this study, small fragments of testis tissue from 8-week-old buffalo calves were implanted subcutaneously onto the back of immunodeficient male mouse recipients, which were either castrated or left intact (non-castrated). The xenografts were retrieved and analyzed 12 and 24 weeks later. The grafted tissue survived and grew in both types of recipient with a significant increase in weight and seminiferous tubule diameter. Recovery of grafts from intact recipients 24 weeks post-grafting was significantly lower than that from the castrated recipients. Seminal vesicle indices and serum testosterone levels were lower in castrated recipients at both collection time points in comparison to the intact recipients and non-grafted intact mouse controls. Pachytene spermatocytes were the most advanced germ cells observed in grafts recovered from castrated recipients 24 weeks post-grafting. Complete spermatogenesis, as indicated by the presence of elongated spermatids, was present only in grafts from intact recipients collected 24 weeks post-grafting. However, significant number of germ cells with DNA damage was also detected in these grafts as indicated by TUNEL assay. The complete germ cell differentiation in xenografts from intact recipients may be attributed to efficient Sertoli cell maturation. These results suggest that germ cell differentiation in buffalo testis xenograft can be completed by altering the recipient gonadal status.
Atmosfera modificada em laranja 'Pêra' minimamente processada
Authors: Arruda Maria Cecília de , Jacomino Angelo Pedro , Trevisan Marcos José , Jeronimo Elisangela Marques , Moretti Celso Luiz
Published: November 2011

Este trabalho teve como objetivo determinar a influência da embalagem com atmosfera modificada na manutenção da qualidade de laranja 'Pêra' minimamente processada armazenada sob refrigeração. As laranjas descascadas foram acondicionadas em filme de polipropileno de 32 µm sob atmosfera modificada passiva ou ativa (5% O2 + 10% CO2; balanço N2). Laranjas acondicionadas em bandeja de poliestireno expandido revestida com filme de cloreto de polivinila de 20 µm foram utilizadas como controle. O armazenamento dos frutos minimamente processados foi realizado a 6 ± 1 ºC e a 12 ± 1 ºC. Periodicamente, foram realizadas análises químicas, sensoriais e microbiológicas. Foram determinados também os teores de etanol e acetaldeído e a atividade da enzima peroxidase. As variáveis químicas determinadas não foram afetadas pelos tratamentos. Houve apenas efeito do tempo de armazenamento nos teores de sólidos solúveis, os quais se reduziram aproximadamente 10% ao longo do armazenamento. Os níveis de contaminação microbiológica foram baixos, não diferindo entre os tratamentos. Houve acúmulo de acetaldeído e etanol em função da modificação da atmosfera, não prejudicando, no entanto, o aroma e o sabor dos frutos, que se mantiveram aceitáveis até o final do armazenamento, assim como a aparência. A atividade da peroxidase foi baixa, sem influência dos tratamentos. A embalagem de PVC foi tão eficiente quanto à embalagem de polipropileno sob atmosfera modificada passiva ou ativa, dentro do período avaliado, permitindo a conservação das laranjas por até nove dias a 12 ºC e até 12 dias a 6 ºC.
Relação entre consumo de bebidas alcoólicas por universitárias e adiposidade corporal
Authors: Silva Amanda Bertolini de Jesus , Oliveira Aihancreson Vaz Kirchoff de , Silva Janiara David , Quintaes Késia Diego , Fonseca Vilma Aparecida da Silva , Nemer Aline Silva de Aguiar
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVO: Identificar a influência do consumo de bebidas alcoólicas na adiposidade corporal de universitárias. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se um estudo transversal com universitárias do curso de Nutrição da Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (MG). O perfil de uso do álcool foi avaliado pelo AUDIT e a adiposidade foi avaliada pelo índice de massa corporal, percen-tual de gordura corporal, circunferência da cintura, circunferência do braço, dobra cutânea triciptal e razão cintura-quadril. RESULTADOS: O consumo de bebidas foi relatado por 141 alunas, sendo que 56% (n = 79) fazem uso nocivo de álcool (AUDIT > 8). Os valores médios do percentual de gordura corporal, da circunferência da cintura e da dobra cutânea triciptal foram maiores entre as alunas que relataram consumir bebidas alcoólicas (p < 0,05). Valores médios de circunferência do braço e dobra cutânea triciptal foram maiores entre as alunas que relataram uso nocivo de álcool. Houve associação positiva entre a pontuação do AUDIT e os parâmetros de adiposidade corporal (para percentual de gordura corporal, r = 0,20; p = 0,03); abdominal (para circunferência da cintura, r = 0,29; p = 0,01) e periférica (para circunferência do braço, r = 0,28; p = 0,02, e para dobra cutânea triciptal, r = 0,23;p = 0,007). CONCLUSÃO: O consumo de álcool pode ter influenciado na maior adiposidade entre as universitárias que relataram consumir bebidas alcoólicas. A adiposidade periférica foi maior entre as universitárias que relataram uso nocivo de álcool.
Coordenação motora fina de escolares com dislexia e transtorno do déficit de atenção e hiperatividade
Authors: Okuda Paola Matiko Martins , Lourencetti Maria Dalva , Santos Lara Cristina Antunes dos , Padula Niura Aparecida de Moura Ribeiro , Capellini Simone Aparecida
Published: November 2011

OBJETIVOS: descrever e comparar o desempenho da coordenação motora fina em escolares com dislexia e com transtorno do déficit de atenção e hiperatividade utilizando parâmetros de desempenho motor e idade cronológica da Escala de Desenvolvimento Motor. MÉTODO: participaram 22 escolaresdo ensino fundamental, de ambos os gêneros, na faixa etária de 6 a 11 anos de idade distribuídos em: GI: 11 escolares com transtorno do déficit de atenção e hiperatividade e GII: 11 com dislexia. Como procedimento, provas de motricidade fina da Escala de Desenvolvimento Motor foram aplicadas. RESULTADOS: os resultados revelaram diferença estatisticamente significante entre a idade motora fina e a idade cronológica de GI e GII. Conforme a classificação da Escala do Desenvolvimento Motor, 90% dos escolares de GI e GII apresentaram desenvolvimento motor fino muito inferior ao esperado para a idade e 10% dos escolares com dislexia apresentam desenvolvimento normal baixo ao esperado para a idade e 10% dos escolares com transtorno do déficit de atenção e hiperatividade apresentaram desenvolvimento inferior ao esperado para a idade. CONCLUSÃO: concluímos que tanto os escolares com dislexia como os com TDAH deste estudo apresentam atrasos na coordenação motora fina, demonstrando que os participantes desta pesquisa apresentam dificuldades em atividades que exijam destreza, quadro característico do transtorno do desenvolvimento da coordenação. Estudos complementares estão sendo conduzidos pelos autores deste estudo para poder verificar e comprovar se o perfil motor fino dos escolares encontrados neste estudo se assemelham ou se diferem de acordo com o quadro apresentado pelos mesmos.
Heterogeneidade de variância residual em modelos de regressão aleatória na descrição do crescimento de codornas de corte
Authors: Bonafé Cristina Moreira , Torres Robledo de Almeida , Teixeira Rafael Bastos , Silva Felipe Gomes da , Sousa Mariele Freitas , Leite Carla Daniela Suguimoto , Silva Luciano Pinheiro da , Caetano Giovani da Costa
Published: November 2011

Para comparar a influência da heterogeneidade da variância residual nos parâmetros genéticos estimados para a curva de crescimento de codornas de corte, foram utilizados dados provenientes de 26.835 e 27.447 observações, de 3.909 e 4.040 codornas de corte das linhagens UFV-1 e UFV-2, respectivamente. Foi avaliado o peso corporal nas duas linhagens, aos 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias de idade, por meio de modelo animal em regressão aleatória, considerando na modelagem as variâncias residuais em classes de idades. Observou-se aumento no Log e L, significativo pelo teste da razão de verossimilhança (LRT), com o aumento do número de classes heterogêneas. Na modelagem da variância residual, foram consideradas classes de idade: homogênea: CL1 (uma classe): 1-42 dias; e as heterogêneas: CL2 (duas classes): 1 e 7-42 dias; CL3 (três classes): 1, 7 e 14-42 dias; CL4 (quatro classes): 1, 7, 14 e 21-42 dias; CL5 (cinco classes): 1, 7, 14 e 21 e 28-42 dias; CL6 (seis classes): 1, 7, 14, 21, 28 e 35-42 dias; CL7 (sete classes): 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35 e 42 dias de idade. O modelo que considerou homogeneidade de variância residual mostrou-se inadequado. As estimativas de variâncias, herdabilidades e correlações foram influenciadas pela modelagem da variância residual. A utilização de heterogeneidade de variância residual (CL7) para modelar as variâncias associadas à curva de crescimento das codornas de corte é necessária.
Desempenho de frangos de corte alimentados com rações contendo diferentes níveis de cálcio suplementadas com fitase
Authors: Donato Daniella Carolina Zanardo , Albuquerque Ricardo de , Garcia Paula Duarte Silva Rangel , Balieiro Júlio César de Carvalho
Published: November 2011

Um experimento foi conduzido para avaliar o efeito de rações contendo diferentes níveis de cálcio e suplementadas com fitase sobre o desempenho de frangos de corte nas fases inicial (1 a 21 dias), de crescimento (22 a 35 dias) e final (36 a 42 dias). Foram utilizados 2.160 pintos de corte machos da linhagem AG Ross 308, de 1 a 42 dias de idade, distribuídos em 6 tratamentos, cada um com 6 repetições. Foi utilizado um delineamento inteiramente casualizado em esquema fatorial 3 × 2, com 3 níveis de fitase (0, 600 e 1.200 ftu/kg) e 2 de cálcio (0,94 e 0,66%; 0,84 e 0,59%; e 0,78 e 0,54% para as fases inicial, de crescimento e final, respectivamente). As rações experimentais ainda tinham níveis reduzidos de fósforo disponível e níveis mínimos de proteína bruta. Ao final de cada fase, avaliaram-se o ganho de peso, o consumo de ração, a conversão alimentar e a mortalidade. Houve interação entre os níveis de fitase e de cálcio estudados para ganho de peso, consumo de ração e mortalidade nas três fases avaliadas. Os melhores resultados foram obtidos com a suplementação de fitase no nível de 1.200 ftu/kg de ração em associação aos menores níveis de cálcio. Nenhum resultado significativo foi observado para conversão alimentar. Os níveis nutricionais de cálcio podem ser reduzidos em 30% em dietas com baixos níveis de fósforo disponível e níveis mínimos de proteína bruta, desde que as dietas sejam suplementadas com 1.200 ftu/kg de fitase.
A perspectiva ambiental no curso de Licenciatura em Física da UFPI: reflexões sobre o atual Projeto Político Pedagógico
Authors: Moita Neto José Machado , Santos Karine dos
Published: November 2011

A crescente demanda por atitudes voltadas para a solução dos problemas ambientais tem exigido esforços de todas as áreas do conhecimento para se encontrar maneiras de minimizar os impactos causados pela ação do homem. Invariavelmente, as perguntas e respostas para os problemas ambientais perpassam pela escola, neste sentido, dos docentes em física são exigidos posicionamentos, baseados em conhecimentos técnicos e científicos, capazes de satisfazer a inquietação dos alunos. Motivado por essa questão, inferimos como os cursos de licenciatura tem inserido em seus currículos a temática ambiental, aporte necessário para futuros docentes de física. Nesta perspectiva, analisamos o Projeto Político e Pedagógico do curso de licenciatura em física, vigente na Universidade Federal do Piauí, e apontamos neste artigo as limitações presentes neste projeto político ao que concerne as questões ambientais bem como sugerimos modificações de caráter curriculares, atitudinais e possíveis abordagens que podem ser inseridas ao Projeto Político e Pedagógico do referido curso que privilegiam o viés ambiental necessário para um curso formador de professores de física.
Board Brasileiro de Ortodontia e Ortopedia Facial: certificando excelência
Authors: Lima Filho Roberto M. A. , Vogel Carlos Jorge , Zen Estélio , Bolognese Ana Maria , Mucha José Nelson , Araújo Telma Martins de
Published: November 2011

O Board Brasileiro de Ortodontia e Ortopedia Facial (BBO) é uma entidade de Certificação Nacional de padrão de excelência clínica no exercício da especialidade. O artigo, ora apresentado, traz o histórico da criação do BBO, sua estrutura e as fases que compõem a avaliação para obtenção da Certificação. Apresenta, ainda, o relato do primeiro exame aplicado no Brasil. O objetivo é multiplicar o conhecimento, entre os profissionais da área, sobre a importância da Certificação BBO como garantia do mais alto grau de qualidade no tratamento ortodôntico.
OLEDs based on an europium(IIIrpar; complex: {Tris(thenoyltrifluoroacetonate)[1,2,5]‐thiadiazolo[3,4‐f] [1,10]phenanthroline}europium(III)
Authors: Pereira Alessandra , Conte Gilmar , Gallardo Hugo , Zucco César , Quirino Welber G. , Legnani Cristiano , Cremona Marco , Bechtold Ivan H.
Published: November 2011

Abstract— The contribution of radiative and non‐radiative processes to the electroluminescence emission of OLEDs based on Eu‐complex, {tris(thenoyltrifluoroacetone)[1,2,5]thiadiazolo[3,4‐f][1,10]phenanthroline} europium(III), [Eu(TTA)3TDZP], which acts as transporting and emitting layers, is investigated. The Eu‐complex presented an intense photoluminescence with high color purity in the red region, characteristic of the Eu(III) 5D0 → 7F2 narrow line transition. However, when used in a double‐layered OLED its electroluminescence showed additional undesired broad bands, which can be attributed to the possible electrophosphorescence of the ligand and to an inefficient energy transfer from the organic ligand to the Eu(III). The characteristic narrow lines could be achieved using a co‐deposited active layer with the Eu‐complex acting as a dopant in a matrix comprised of 4,4’‐bis(carbazol‐9‐yl)biphenyl (CBP).
Pharmacogenetics of Drug Metabolizing Enzymes and Transporters: Effects on Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Anticancer Agents
Authors: H. Lee Norman
Published: November 2011

There is wide interpatient variability in drug response and toxicity to standard doses of most anticancer medications. Genetic polymorphisms in genes encoding metabolic enzymes, receptors and drug transporters targeted by anticancer medications are often found, in part, to be responsible for the observed variability. Approximately 80% of all sequence variations residing in genes is in the form of single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs. The location of SNPs can be in the protein coding sequence, regulatory regions or at exon-intron boundaries of genes. Adverse drug reactions resulting from these sequence variations are due to changes in the activity of the encoded protein (in many instances the protein is non-functional) or perturbations in the level of gene expression. The goal of pharmacogenetic testing is to identify genetic polymorphisms that predispose patients to an adverse drug reaction, thereby allowing the health care provider to make informed decisions pertaining to the type of drug, dosage and dosage scheduling to be administered.
Evaluation of Effect of Triterpenes and Limonoids on Cell Growth, Cell Cycle and Apoptosis in Human Tumor Cell Lines
Authors: M. Cazal Cristiane , Choosang Kantima , Gisele P. Severino Vanessa , S. Soares Marcio , Lucio F. Sarria Andre , B. Fernandes Joao , Fatima G.F. Silva Maria , Cezar Vieira Paulo , Pakkong Pannee , M. Almeida Gabriela , Helena Vasconcelos M. , S.J. Nascimento Maria , M.M. Pinto Madalena
Published: November 2011

Six triterpenes and eight limonoids were evaluated for their capacity to inhibit the growth of three human tumour cell lines, breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7), non-small cell lung cancer (NCI-H460) and melanoma (A375-C5). The mechanisms involved in the observed cell growth arrest of the four most potent compounds were carried out by studying their effect in cell cycle profile and programmed cell death. The results showed that one triterpene (odoratol) and two limonoids (gedunin and cedrelone) caused cell cycle arrest while only the limonoids gedunin and cedrelone were found to be very potent inducers of apoptosis.
Targeting Focal Adhesion Kinase in Neuroblastoma
Authors: Gillory Lauren , A. Beierle Elizabeth
Published: November 2011

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor encountered in children, and continues to carry a dismal prognosis. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) has been shown to be upregulated in a number of human tumors and is related to tumor virulence and patient prognosis. We have demonstrated FAK expression in human neuroblastoma cell lines and tumors, and have shown that FAK is important for neuroblastoma tumor cell viability. We have also demonstrated that FAK inhibition through a number of different methods results in decreased neuroblastoma survival both in vitro and in vivo. The current review addresses the merit of further exploring FAK inhibition as a novel treatment for neuroblastoma.
Consumption of wood fuels in households in Serbia: Present state and possible contribution to the climate change mitigation
Authors: Glavonjic Branko
Published: November 2011

The paper presents results of the research in wood fuels consumption for
house-hold needs in Serbia. Research was performed during the period from
October 2010 until April 2011, i. e. in the period of heating season in order
to get the actual situation regarding the presence of certain fuel types in
the consumption of households with special highlight on types and amounts of
wood fuels. For this purpose, an adequate methodological concept was defined
with the aim to primarily get relevant and reliable data on wood fuels
consumption and afterwards, by using FAO WISDOM methodology and adequate GIS
software packages to perform their analysis, mapping, and graphic
representation. One of the most significant elements of the adopted
methodological concept was field research-questionnaire of households which
was conducted on the sample of 36.946 households out of which 20.725 urban
and 16.221 rural in 22 municipalities in Serbia, which was 1.46% of the total
number of households in Serbia. Results of the survey showed that 23.2% of
the total number of households in Serbia used district heating system (based
on conventional fossil fuels as dominant), 25.3% used electricity, and 10.6%
used gas for heating purposes. Most households (40.9%) used solid fuels such
as fuelwood, coal, briquettes, pellets, agricultural residues and
combinations of solid and other fuels.
Best Practices for Tourism Concessions in Protected Areas: A Review of the Field
Authors: Wyman Miriam , Barborak James R. , Inamdar Neel , Stein Taylor
Published: November 2011

Despite the importance of protected areas (PAs) worldwide to protect biodiversity, reduce poverty and promote sustainable development, throughout the world governments struggle to adequately fund PAs to meet conservation goals. Tourism is seen as a viable financial option for PAs, with tourism concessions through private sector partnerships gaining momentum that allows the overarching goal of preservation and conservation to remain with the state. However, without appropriate planning or best practices in place, tourism concessions can lead to such problems as waste, habitat destruction and the displacement of local people and wildlife. We analyzed tourism concession agreements in government documents from 22 countries to provide an overview of what best practices for tourism concessions are being established and what practices might need to be better incorporated into agreements. The greatest weaknesses of best practices appear to be with concession qualifications, legal, and financial responsibilities, while the strengths included environmental and empowerment/social responsibilities. This initial assessment of contract components will provide a baseline to further develop best practices and assist protected area managers, local communities, and conservation practitioners working with tourism in PAs to ensure that tourism has a positive impact on protected area management.
The Impact of Membrane Lipid Composition on Macrophage Activation in the Immune Defense against Rhodococcus equi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Schoeniger Axel , Adolph Stephanie , Fuhrmann Herbert , Schumann Julia
Published: November 2011

Nutritional fatty acids are known to have an impact on membrane lipid composition of body cells, including cells of the immune system, thus providing a link between dietary fatty acid uptake, inflammation and immunity. In this study we reveal the significance of macrophage membrane lipid composition on gene expression and cytokine synthesis thereby highlighting signal transduction processes, macrophage activation as well as macrophage defense mechanisms. Using RAW264.7 macrophages as a model system, we identified polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) of both the n-3 and the n-6 family to down-regulate the synthesis of: (i) the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α; (ii) the co-stimulatory molecule CD86; as well as (iii) the antimicrobial polypeptide lysozyme. The action of the fatty acids partially depended on the activation status of the macrophages. It is particularly important to note that the anti-inflammatory action of the PUFA could also be seen in case of infection of RAW264.7 with viable microorganisms of the genera R. equi and P. aeruginosa. In summary, our data provide strong evidence that PUFA from both the n-3 and the n-6 family down-regulate inflammation processes in context of chronic infections caused by persistent pathogens.
Caffeinated Coffee, Decaffeinated Coffee and Endometrial Cancer Risk: A Prospective Cohort Study among US Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Giri Ayush , Sturgeon Susan R. , Luisi Nicole , Bertone-Johnson Elizabeth , Balasubramanian Raji , Reeves Katherine W.
Published: November 2011

There is plausible biological evidence as well as epidemiologic evidence to suggest coffee consumption may lower endometrial cancer risk. We evaluated the associations between self-reported total coffee, caffeinated coffee and decaffeinated coffee, and endometrial cancer risk using the Women’s Health Initiative Observational Study Research Materials obtained from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute Biological Specimen and Data Repository Coordinating Center. Our primary analyses included 45,696 women and 427 incident endometrial cancer cases, diagnosed over a total of 342,927 person-years of follow-up. We used Cox-proportional hazard models to evaluate coffee consumption and endometrial cancer risk. Overall, we did not find an association between coffee consumption and endometrial cancer risk. Compared to non-daily drinkers (none or < 1 cup/day), the multivariable adjusted hazard ratios for women who drank ≥4 cups/day were 0.86 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63, 1.18) for total coffee, 0.89 (95% CI 0.63, 1.27) for caffeinated coffee, and 0.51 (95% CI 0.25, 1.03) for decaf coffee. In subgroup analyses by body mass index (BMI) there were no associations among normal-weight and overweight women for total coffee and caffeinated coffee. However among obese women, compared to the referent group (none or < 1 cup/day), the hazard ratios for women who drank ≥2 cups/day were: 0.72 (95% CI 0.50, 1.04) for total coffee and 0.66 (95% CI 0.45, 0.97) for caffeinated coffee. Hazard ratios for women who drank ≥2 cups/day for decaffeinated coffee drinkers were 0.67 (0.43–1.06), 0.93 (0.55–1.58) and 0.80 (0.49–1.30) for normal, overweight and obese women, respectively. Our study suggests that caffeinated coffee consumption may be associated with lower endometrial cancer risk among obese postmenopausal women, but the association with decaffeinated coffee remains unclear.
The Sociology of Humanist, Spiritual, and Religious Practice in Prison: Supporting Responsivity and Desistance from Crime
Authors: O’Connor Tom P. , Duncan Jeff B.
Published: November 2011

This paper presents evidence for why Corrections should take the humanist, spiritual, and religious self-identities of people in prison seriously, and do all it can to foster and support those self-identities, or ways of establishing meaning in life. Humanist, spiritual, and religious (H/S/R) pathways to meaning can be an essential part of the evidence-based responsivity principle of effective correctional programming, and the desistance process for men and women involved in crime. This paper describes the sociology of the H/S/R involvement of 349 women and 3,009 men during the first year of their incarceration in the Oregon prison system. Ninety-five percent of the women and 71% of the men voluntarily attended at least one H/S/R event during their first year of prison. H/S/R events were mostly led by diverse religious and spiritual traditions, such as Native American, Protestant, Islamic, Wiccan, Jewish, Jehovah Witness, Latter-day Saints/Mormon, Seventh Day Adventist, Buddhist, and Catholic, but, increasingly, events are secular or humanist in context, such as education, yoga, life-skills development, non-violent communication, and transcendental meditation groups. The men and women in prison had much higher rates of H/S/R involvement than the general population in Oregon. Mirroring gender-specific patterns of H/S/R involvement found in the community, women in prison were much more likely to attend H/S/R events than men.
Neutralizing Antibody Response to Hepatitis C Virus
Authors: Wang Yong , Keck Zhen-Yong , Foung Steven K. H.
Published: November 2011

A critical first step in a “rational vaccine design” approach for hepatitis C virus (HCV) is to identify the most relevant mechanisms of immune protection. Emerging evidence provides support for a protective role of virus neutralizing antibodies, and the ability of the B cell response to modify the course of acute HCV infection. This has been made possible by the development of in vitro cell culture models, based on HCV retroviral pseudotype particles expressing E1E2 and infectious cell culture-derived HCV virions, and small animal models that are robust tools in studies of antibody-mediated virus neutralization. This review is focused on the immunogenic determinants on the E2 glycoprotein mediating virus neutralization and the pathways in which the virus is able to escape from immune containment. Encouraging findings from recent studies provide support for the existence of broadly neutralization antibodies that are not associated with virus escape. The identification of conserved epitopes mediating virus neutralization that are not associated with virus escape will facilitate the design of a vaccine immunogen capable of eliciting broadly neutralizing antibodies against this highly diverse virus.
Hemoglobin Variability with Epoetin Beta and Continuous Erythropoietin Receptor Activator in Patients on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Selby Nicholas M. , Fonseca Sally A. , Fluck Richard J. , Taal Maarten W.
Published: November 2011

♦ Background and Objectives

The extent to which hemoglobin (Hb) cycling occurs in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients is unclear. It is also uncertain whether different types of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) affect such cycling. We performed a retrospective cohort study of our PD population before and after the entire program was switched from epoetin beta (NeoRecormon: Hoffman–LaRoche, Basel, Switzerland) to continuous erythropoietin receptor activator [CERA (Mircera: Hoffman–LaRoche)].

♦ Design, Setting, Participants, and Measurements

The study included 79 patients receiving PD for end-stage renal failure and being treated with an ESA. Hemoglobin concentrations were measured monthly, and each study period ran for 12 months. Patient demographics and details of intercurrent illness and hospital admission were collected.

♦Results

There was a trend to fewer patients on CERA (26 patients, 68.4%) than on epoetin beta (36 patients, 87.8%, p = 0.054) experiencing Hb excursions. The CERA group also required fewer dose changes. However, there was no difference in the proportion of patients experiencing complete Hb cycles. On logistic regression, the factors associated with Hb cycling were ESA dose increase or decrease and hospital admission. We also observed a positive correlation between the delta ESA dose and the amplitude of Hb excursion, suggesting that the dose changes were causal, rather than reactive.

♦Conclusions

Hemoglobin cycling occurs in PD patients and is largely a consequence of current practice in ESA dosing, plus the effects of intercurrent illness. The longer half life of CERA may offer a small advantage in reducing the degree of Hb variability, possibly because of fewer dose changes per patient.
Network-Aided Session Management for Adaptive Context-Aware Multiparty Communications
Authors: Antoniou Josephina , Christophorou Christophoros , Simoes Jose , Pitsillides Andreas
Published: November 2011

Recent years, from about the early 2000s, have been characterized by global broadband penetration, Fixed-Mobile-Convergence, Triple Play, and content provisioning over All-IP multimedia networks. Increasing demands in group-based multimedia sessions and market forces are fuelling the design of the future Internet, which is expected to fundamentally change the networking landscape in the upcoming years. Context, understood as sensed information that changes over time, has already led, to some extent, to service adaptation in terms of recognizing and using simple context, e.g. location. Context may also include network or personal state, location, or weather. To allow for session adaptation, it is important to use network and user context to enhance the existing service, keeping the user satisfied throughout the session.
A Comparison of Pricing Strategies for Digital Goods
Authors: Lei Peng , Shi Kristy , Iqbal Tahani
Published: November 2011

This chapter is a review of pricing strategies for digital goods. The basis for a number of such strategies is analysed. Using the case of online music, some lessons for the practice of digital pricing are derived.
Deriving Value in the IDM Market
Authors: Alexander Nisha , Ching Ho Wei , Kumar Arasu Prem
Published: November 2011

Faced with different market contexts and changing circumstances, businesses in the IDM marketplace often find themselves in a dilemma with respect to whether to make their platforms open or closed. This chapter presents the Open vs. Closed Value Analysis Framework Model that identifies, describes, and categorizes considerations for IDM platform owners deciding whether, where, when, and how to make their platforms more open or closed. We focused on platform-mediated networks commonly found in the IDM marketplace. We have found that there are generally no clear-cut rules of thumb that point clearly to whether a platform should be open or closed. Various factors like new industry entrants vs. dominant incumbent platforms, the presence and significance of complementors giving competitive advantage, and platform superiority weigh in on the decision.
Multi-Agent Systems and Social Networks
Authors: Franchi Enrico , Poggi Agostino
Published: November 2011

The evolution of multi-agent systems theories and technologies has important relationships with the evolution of social networks. In fact, the study of social structures such as organizations and coalitions is one of the most important topics of the research on multi-agent systems; while such a study can take advantage of the works on social network analysis, multi-agent systems can be used both for simulating the evolution of social networks and for providing technological supports for the realization of services for such kinds of networks. This chapter has the goal of describing the relationships between multi-agent systems and social networks and how multi-agent systems technologies and techniques have been used and can be used in support of social networks.
A Method of Analysing the Use of Social Networking Sites in Business
Authors: Askool Sanaa , Jacobs Aimee , Nakata Keiichi
Published: November 2011

Organisations have used information and communications technologies (ICT) to gain a competitive advantage. Presently, social media, in particular, social networking sites play a crucial role in business and enable a collaborative environment for business activities through networked relationships. Despite the benefits offered, many businesses are reluctant to use these tools because of privacy, security, and cultural issues. Through a literature review of the environment this chapter provides an overview of the ways businesses can use social media, and background information for understanding the growth and importance of social networks and social networking sites. One of the ways to prepare for future growth is to analyse social media in a business environment by using Earl’s model of evolution as a framework. Investigating and understanding the influence of Web 2.0 on business should provide professionals and enterprises with a better understanding of how this tool can be integrated with work activities.