bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HLA molecules and nasal carriage of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from dialysis and kidney transplant patients at a hospital in Southern Brazil
Authors: Giarola Luciana Borges , dos Santos Rosiane Ribeiro , Bedendo João , da Silva Júnior Waldir Veríssimo , Borelli Sueli Donizete
Published: February 2012

Background

Healthy individuals can host Staphylococcus aureus in the nasopharynx, body surface and vagina. Most invasive infections by this bacterium are endogenous, caused by strains spread from the nasopharynx of carriers. S. aureus is a pathogen involved in the etiology of hospital- and community-acquired infections. Transplant and dialysis patients are at risk of colonization or infection by multi-resistant S. aureus. Infection is directly linked to individual immunity, and the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) plays a crucial role in determining susceptibility to diseases. Different MHC specificities have been shown to be more frequent in individuals suffering from certain diseases. This study aimed to investigate the association between HLA class I (HLA-A and -B) and class II (HLA-DRB1) molecules and nasal carriage of S. aureus in dialysis and kidney transplant patients at a hospital in Southern Brazil.

Results

The sample consisted of 70 dialysis and 46 kidney transplant patients, totaling 116 patients. All subjects were typed for HLA molecules using LABType® SSO (One Lambda). Nasal swab samples of S. aureus were isolated from the nasal cavity (both nostrils) of patients undergoing dialysis or kidney transplantation.

In renal dialysis patients, HLA-A*02 was the most frequent allele in both carriers (25.5%) and non-carriers (21.2%) of S. aureus. Allele A*68 was not observed in the carrier group, but the allele was observed six times in the non-carrier group (p = 0.0097). Regarding HLA-B and HLA-DRB1, no allele was shown to be involved in protection against or susceptibility to carriage of S. aureus. In kidney transplant patients, allele A*03 was more frequent in the non-carrier (20.83%) than in the carrier (5.88%) group (p = 0.0486). HLA-B*15 was present in carriers (5.88%) and non-carriers (25%) (p = 0.0179). Regarding class II alleles, DRB1*03 appeared to be related to susceptibility to carriage of S. aureus (p = 0.0319).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that HLA-DRB1*03 may be involved in susceptibility to nasal carriage of S. aureus in transplant patients. In addition, HLA-A*68 (dialysis patients) and HLA-A*03 and HLA-B*15 (transplant patients) appear to be associated with increased resistance to S. aureus nasal carriage.
Computational prediction of MicroRNAs targeting GABA receptors and experimental verification of miR-181, miR-216 and miR-203 targets in GABA-A receptor
Authors: Zhao Chunling , Huang Chaoqun , Weng Tingting , Xiao Xiao , Ma Hong , Liu Lin
Published: February 2012

Background

GABA receptors are well known as the inhibitory receptors in the central nervous system and are also found in peripheral tissues. We have previously shown that GABA receptors are involved in lung development and fluid homeostasis. However, the microRNAs that regulate GABA receptors have not yet been identified.

Results

In this study, we used the online software, TargetScan and miRanda, to query the microRNAs that directly target GABA receptors and then selected some of them to verify experimentally using 3'-UTR reporter assays. Computational approaches predict many microRNA binding sites on the 3'-UTR of GABAA receptors, but not on GABAC receptors. 3'-UTR reporter assays only verified miR-181, miR-216, and miR-203 as the microRNAs that target GABA receptor α1-subunit among 10 microRNAs tested.

Conclusions

Our studies reinforce that microRNA target prediction needs to be verified experimentally. The identification of microRNAs that target GABA receptors provides a basis for further studies of post-transcriptional regulation of GABA receptors.
Serum 24,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D Concentrations in Osteogenesis Imperfecta: Relationship to Bone Parameters
Authors: Edouard Thomas , Husseini Abdallah , Glorieux Francis H. , Rauch Frank
Published: February 2012

Background:

Several studies suggest that 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [24,25(OH)2D] may have an effect on bone mass and metabolism.

Objective:

We evaluated the relationship between serum 24,25(OH)2D levels and bone density and bone metabolism in children with a primary bone disorder—osteogenesis imperfecta (OI).

Materials and Methods:

The study included 132 patients (age, 1.1 to 17.9 yr; 67 girls) with OI types I, III, or IV who had not received bisphosphonate treatment at the time of analysis.

Results:

Serum 24,25(OH)2D levels were significantly higher in OI type III than in OI type I or IV. Serum 24,25(OH)2D concentrations were positively correlated with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels and negatively correlated with serum PTH levels, and were not correlated with serum 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D]. The ratio between serum 24,25(OH)2D and 25OHD was negatively correlated with age and was independent of serum 25OHD concentrations. Regression analysis revealed that OI severity (P = 0.04), serum 25OHD levels (P < 0.001), and serum PTH concentrations (P = 0.045), but not age, gender, or serum 1,25(OH)2D, were independent predictors of serum 24,25(OH)2D levels. No correlation was found between serum 24,25(OH)2D levels or the ratio between serum 24,25(OH)2D and 25OHD and lumbar spine bone mineral density z-scores or bone marker levels (serum osteocalcin and urinary collagen type I N-telopeptide) after adjusting for OI type, age, and gender.

Conclusion:

Patients with more severe OI type had higher 24,25(OH)2D serum levels and higher serum 24,25(OH)2D to 25OHD ratios, suggesting an increased 25OHD-24-hydroxylase activity.
Wandering Through the Borderlands of the Social Sciences: Gary Becker’sEconomics of Discrimination
Authors: Fleury Jean-Baptiste
Published: February 2012

This article contextualizes the writing, reception, and impact of Gary Becker’s first book, The Economics of Discrimination, in order to deepen our understanding of the relationships between economics and the other social sciences. First, we study the social scientific work on race relations prior to Becker’s book, work that was heavily influenced by the work of the economist Gunnar Myrdal and criticized for lacking an underlying theoretical framework. Second, we analyze the novelty of Becker’s contribution. Becker’s book introduced nonpecuniary motives into the neoclassical framework so as to respond to the criticisms leveled by institutional economists against the marginal analysis of labor markets. In doing so, Becker attempted to redefine the relationship between economists and other social scientists. Third, we study the reaction to Becker’s redefinition of disciplinary territories, which illustrated the current debates within sociology and labor economics. Finally, we study the impact of Becker’s book on social scientific research in the 1960s.
Lowndes and Locke on the Value of Money
Authors: Ormazabal Kepa
Published: February 2012

The main goal of this article is to identify and critically examine the foundations of the monetary theories to which Lowndes and Locke appealed during their debate around the Great Recoinage of 1696. In the course of the investigation I came by the critical commentaries of Sir James Steuart and Karl Marx on the views of Locke and Lowndes on monetary theory. As these highly valuable commentaries are nearly absent from the standard literature, I present and critically assess them in this essay.
The CDC25B phosphatase shortens the G2 phase of neural progenitors and promotes efficient neuron production
Authors: Peco Emilie , Escude Timothé , Agius Eric , Sabado Virginie , Medevielle François , Ducommun Bernard , Pituello Fabienne
Published: February 2012

During embryonic development, changes in cell cycle kinetics have been associated with neurogenesis. This observation suggests that specific cell cycle regulators may be recruited to modify cell cycle dynamics and influence the decision between proliferation and differentiation. In the present study, we investigate the role of core positive cell cycle regulators, the CDC25 phosphatases, in this process. We report that, in the developing chicken spinal cord, only CDC25A is expressed in domains where neural progenitors undergo proliferative self-renewing divisions, whereas the combinatorial expression of CDC25A and CDC25B correlates remarkably well with areas where neurogenesis occurs. We also establish that neural progenitors expressing both CDC25A and CDC25B have a shorter G2 phase than those expressing CDC25A alone. We examine the functional relevance of these correlations using an RNAi-based method that allows us to knock down CDC25B efficiently and specifically. Reducing CDC25B expression results in a specific lengthening of the G2 phase, whereas the S-phase length and the total cell cycle time are not significantly modified. This modification of cell cycle kinetics is associated with a reduction in neuron production that is due to the altered conversion of proliferating neural progenitor cells to post-mitotic neurons. Thus, expression of CDC25B in neural progenitors has two functions: to change cell cycle kinetics and in particular G2-phase length and also to promote neuron production, identifying new roles for this phosphatase during neurogenesis.
SIK3 is essential for chondrocyte hypertrophy during skeletal development in mice
Authors: Sasagawa Satoru , Takemori Hiroshi , Uebi Tatsuya , Ikegami Daisuke , Hiramatsu Kunihiko , Ikegawa Shiro , Yoshikawa Hideki , Tsumaki Noriyuki
Published: February 2012

Chondrocyte hypertrophy is crucial for endochondral ossification, but the mechanism underlying this process is not fully understood. We report that salt-inducible kinase 3 (SIK3) deficiency causes severe inhibition of chondrocyte hypertrophy in mice. SIK3-deficient mice showed dwarfism as they aged, whereas body size was unaffected during embryogenesis. Anatomical and histological analyses revealed marked expansion of the growth plate and articular cartilage regions in the limbs, accumulation of chondrocytes in the sternum, ribs and spine, and impaired skull bone formation in SIK3-deficient mice. The primary phenotype in the skeletal tissue of SIK3-deficient mice was in the humerus at E14.5, where chondrocyte hypertrophy was markedly delayed. Chondrocyte hypertrophy was severely blocked until E18.5, and the proliferative chondrocytes occupied the inside of the humerus. Consistent with impaired chondrocyte hypertrophy in SIK3-deficient mice, native SIK3 expression was detected in the cytoplasm of prehypertrophic and hypertrophic chondrocytes in developing bones in embryos and in the growth plates in postnatal mice. HDAC4, a crucial repressor of chondrocyte hypertrophy, remained in the nuclei in SIK3-deficient chondrocytes, but was localized in the cytoplasm in wild-type hypertrophic chondrocytes. Molecular and cellular analyses demonstrated that SIK3 was required for anchoring HDAC4 in the cytoplasm, thereby releasing MEF2C, a crucial facilitator of chondrocyte hypertrophy, from suppression by HDAC4 in nuclei. Chondrocyte-specific overexpression of SIK3 induced closure of growth plates in adulthood, and the SIK3-deficient cartilage phenotype was rescued by transgenic SIK3 expression in the humerus. These results demonstrate an essential role for SIK3 in facilitating chondrocyte hypertrophy during skeletogenesis and growth plate maintenance.
An essential role for a mammalian SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex during male meiosis
Authors: Kim Yuna , Fedoriw Andrew M. , Magnuson Terry
Published: February 2012

Germ cell development and gametogenesis require genome-wide transitions in epigenetic modifications and chromatin structure. These changes include covalent modifications to the DNA and histones as well as remodeling activities. Here, we explore the role of the mammalian SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complex during spermatogenesis using a conditional allele of the ATPase subunit, brahma-related gene 1 (Brg1, or Smarca4). Not only do BRG1 levels peak during the early stages of meiosis, genetic ablation of Brg1 in murine embryonic gonocytes results in arrest during prophase of meiosis I. Coincident with the timing of meiotic arrest, mutant spermatocytes accumulate unrepaired DNA and fail to complete synapsis. Furthermore, mutant spermatocytes show global alterations to histone modifications and chromatin structure indicative of a more heterochromatic genome. Together, these data demonstrate a requirement for BRG1 activity in spermatogenesis, and suggest a role for the mammalian SWI/SNF complex in programmed recombination and repair events that take place during meiosis.
Differential distribution of competence for panplacodal and neural crest induction to non-neural and neural ectoderm
Authors: Pieper Mareike , Ahrens Katja , Rink Elke , Peter Annette , Schlosser Gerhard
Published: February 2012

It is still controversial whether cranial placodes and neural crest cells arise from a common precursor at the neural plate border or whether placodes arise from non-neural ectoderm and neural crest from neural ectoderm. Using tissue grafting in embryos of Xenopus laevis, we show here that the competence for induction of neural plate, neural plate border and neural crest markers is confined to neural ectoderm, whereas competence for induction of panplacodal markers is confined to non-neural ectoderm. This differential distribution of competence is established during gastrulation paralleling the dorsal restriction of neural competence. We further show that Dlx3 and GATA2 are required cell-autonomously for panplacodal and epidermal marker expression in the non-neural ectoderm, while ectopic expression of Dlx3 or GATA2 in the neural plate suppresses neural plate, border and crest markers. Overexpression of Dlx3 (but not GATA2) in the neural plate is sufficient to induce different non-neural markers in a signaling-dependent manner, with epidermal markers being induced in the presence, and panplacodal markers in the absence, of BMP signaling. Taken together, these findings demonstrate a non-neural versus neural origin of placodes and neural crest, respectively, strongly implicate Dlx3 in the regulation of non-neural competence, and show that GATA2 contributes to non-neural competence but is not sufficient to promote it ectopically.
The cyclophilin DIAGEOTROPICA has a conserved role in auxin signaling
Authors: Lavy Meirav , Prigge Michael J. , Tigyi Kristof , Estelle Mark
Published: February 2012

Auxin has a fundamental role throughout the life cycle of land plants. Previous studies showed that the tomato cyclophilin DIAGEOTROPICA (DGT) promotes auxin response, but its specific role in auxin signaling remains unknown. We sequenced candidate genes in auxin-insensitive mutants of Physcomitrella patens and identified mutations in highly conserved regions of the moss ortholog of tomato DGT. As P. patens and tomato diverged from a common ancestor more than 500 million years ago, this result suggests a conserved and central role for DGT in auxin signaling in land plants. In this study we characterize the P. patens dgt (Ppdgt) mutants and show that their response to auxin is altered, affecting the chloronema-to-caulonema transition and the development of rhizoids. To gain an understanding of PpDGT function we tested its interactions with the TIR1/AFB-dependent auxin signaling pathway. We did not observe a clear effect of the Ppdgt mutation on the degradation of Aux/IAA proteins. However, the induction of several auxin-regulated genes was reduced. Genetic analysis revealed that dgt can suppress the phenotype conferred by overexpression of an AFB auxin receptor. Our results indicate that the DGT protein affects auxin-induced transcription and has a conserved function in auxin regulation in land plants.
Mirror repressespipeexpression in follicle cells to initiate dorsoventral axis formation inDrosophila
Authors: Andreu María José , González-Pérez Esther , Ajuria Leiore , Samper Núria , González-Crespo Sergio , Campuzano Sonsoles , Jiménez Gerardo
Published: February 2012

Dorsoventral (DV) axis formation in Drosophila begins with selective activation of EGFR, a receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK), in dorsal-anterior (DA) ovarian follicle cells. A critical event regulated by EGFR signaling is the repression of the sulfotransferase-encoding gene pipe in dorsal follicle cells, but how this occurs remains unclear. Here we show that Mirror (Mirr), a homeodomain transcription factor induced by EGFR signaling in DA follicle cells, directly represses pipe expression by binding to a conserved element in the pipe regulatory region. In addition, we find that the HMG-box protein Capicua (Cic) supports pipe expression in ventral follicle cells by repressing Mirr in this region. Interestingly, this role of Cic resembles its function in regulating anteroposterior (AP) body patterning, where Cic supports gap gene expression in central regions of the embryo by repressing Tailless, a repressor induced by RTK signaling at the embryonic poles. Thus, related RTK-Cic repressor circuits regulate the early stages of Drosophila DV and AP body axis formation.
Assessment of global left ventricular function with dual-source computed tomography in patients with valvular heart disease
Authors: Bak So Hyeon , Ko Sung Min , Jeon Hae Jeong , Yang Hyun Suk , Hwang Hweung Kon , Song Meong Gun
Published: February 2012

Background

Left ventricular (LV) function is a vital parameter for prognosis, therapy guidance, and follow-up of cardiovascular disease. Dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) provides an accurate analysis of global LV function.

Purpose

To assess the performance of DSCT in the determination of global LV functional parameters in comparison with cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) and two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D-TTE) in patients with valvular heart disease (VHD).

Material and Methods

A total of 111 patients (58 men, mean age 49.9 years) with known VHD and who underwent DSCT, 2D-TTE, and CMR a period of 2 weeks before undergoing valve surgery were included in this study. LV end-systolic volume (ESV), end-diastolic volume (EDV), stroke volume (SV), and ejection fraction (EF) were calculated by DSCT using the threshold-based technique, by 2D-TTE using a modified Simpson's method, and by CMR using Simpson's method. Agreement for parameters of LV global function was determined with the Pearson's correlation coefficient ( r) and Bland-Altman analysis. All the DSCT and CMR data-sets were assessed independently by two readers.

Results

Fifty of the total 111 patients had aortic VHD, 29 patients had mitral VHD, and 32 patients had mixed aortic and mitral VHD. An excellent inter-observer agreement was seen for the assessment of global LV function using DSCT ( r = 0.910–0.983) and CMR ( r = 0.854–0.965). An excellent or good correlation ( r = 0.93, 0.95, 0.87, and 0.71, respectively, P < 0.001) was noted between the DSCT and 2D-TTE values for EDV, ESV, SV, and EF. EDV (33.7 mL, P < 0.001), ESV (12.1 mL, P < 0.001), SV (21.2 mL, P < 0.001), and EF (1.6%, P = 0.019) were significantly overestimated by DSCT when compared with 2D-TTE. An excellent correlation ( r = 0.96, 0.97, 0.91, and 0.94, respectively, P < 0.001) between DSCT and CMR was seen in the evaluation of EDV, ESV, SV, and EF. EDV (15.9 mL, P < 0.001), ESV (7.3 mL, P < 0.001), and SV (8.5 mL, P < 0.001) were significantly underestimated, but EF (1.1%, P = 0.002) was significantly overestimated by DSCT when compared with CMR.

Conclusion

Our study showed that DSCT measurements of global LV function using the threshold-based technique were highly reproducible and compared more favorably with CMR measurements using Simpson's method than those of 2D-TTE using the modified Simpson's method. DSCT enables accurate quantification of global LV function in patients with VHD.
Strategies for dealing with future shortages in the nursing workforce: a review
Authors: Hussain Aftab , Rivers Patrick A , Glover Saundra H , Fottler Myron D
Published: February 2012

The well-anticipated and well-documented demographic shift attributed to ageing of the baby boomer generation will place significant demands upon the health-care industry in the future. Significant resources such as the nurse workforce, will be needed to provide health-care services to this cohort. There is a looming shortage of professional and paraprofessional nurses. This paper evaluates strategies that can be utilized to decrease the rate of the nursing shortage, while retaining the current supply of nurses. Recommendations for solving the nursing shortage problem include enhancing the work environment through fostering open communication, improving technology, nurse empowerment, building long-lasting and fulfilling partnerships, and efficient workplace organization.
Safety subcultures in health-care organizations and managing medical error
Authors: Sirriyeh Reema , Lawton Rebecca , Armitage Gerry , Gardner Peter , Ferguson Sally
Published: February 2012

Leadership has been proposed as a key latent factor influencing the safety culture of an organization, the likelihood of errors occurring and the way in which these are managed. Therefore, when an error occurs, managers have an integral role to ensure that the most desirable outcomes are achieved for patients, health-care staff and their organization. Semistructured interviews were conducted in a large UK teaching hospital to explore the perspectives of staff who are tasked in some way with managing patient safety. Data from 26 transcripts were analysed using an adapted version of Spencer's (2003) qualitative framework, which revealed five primary themes. This paper reports findings from two overarching primary themes, described as being management and safety subcultures. These themes describe experiences of managing medical errors and the subgroup variations between professions, ranks and specialties in attitudes and behaviours towards error, and its management in a large National Health Service Trust. We discuss implications for health-care managers and health professionals in developing a stronger and more unified safety culture in their organizations, along with considerations for academic researchers when undertaking health services research.
The effects on length of stay of introducing a fast track patient pathway for myocardial infarction: a before and after evaluation
Authors: Laut Kristina Grønborg , Foldspang Anders
Published: February 2012

The aim was to assess whether the implementation of a fast-track patient pathway (FTPP) at an invasive treatment ward (ITW) could reduce the length of hospital stay (LOHS), among patients with non-ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction (NSTEMI). A before-and-after study was carried out, based on historical data from a total of 202 patients with NSTEMI admitted to a coronary ITW during two inclusion periods each lasting 100 days (Period I, 2004, no fast track, 95 consecutive patients; Period II, 2005, fast track implemented, 107 consecutive patients). Patients were followed during 180 days as concerns the total LOHS. A total of 33 patients passed through the FTPP. Their mean total LOHS was significantly shorter (3.3 days reduction; 95% CI 1.7, 5.5 days) as compared with all Period II patients. In total, Period II patients, however, spent significantly more days (mean, 1.7 days more; 95% CI 0.2, 3.3 days) in hospital than Period I patients. Thus, the implementation of FTPP reduced the mean LOHS for patients selected for the FTPP, but the mean LOHS for other patients rose and so the overall mean LOHS turned out to be significantly prolonged. The implementation of FTPP appears a complicated matter; changing one component has consequences for the wider health-care system.
Impact of Increased Patient Choice of Providers in Sweden: Cataract Surgery
Authors: Hanning Marianne , ÅHs Annika , Winblad Ulrika , LundströM Mats
Published: February 2012

Objectives

Choice of provider was introduced in Sweden in 2001. Our aim was to describe the scope and character of patient flows and to analyze any differences between patients who chose to move outside of their home county (movers) and those who did not (non-movers) with regard to age, sex, waiting time and level of need.

Methods

Use of cataract operations between 2005 and 2008 based on data from the National Cataract Register. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, odds ratios and multivariate regression analysis to compare movers and non-movers. Information on contracting between county councils and providers in other counties was obtained from a survey.

Results

Only 4% of cataract patients were treated by a provider outside their home county. Patient flows were mainly determined by contracts between county councils and providers, and only 1% were considered to be ‘true’ movers (i.e. patients who were not part of any special contracting agreement). Movers differed from non-movers in that they were on average younger, had less serious visual problems and had shorter waiting times.

Conclusion

Though patient flows are minor in scope, the possibility of changing provider has probably been important in tackling long waits in some counties. However, the reform may threaten the equity of health care use.
Detection of varicose vein recurrence by duplex ultrasound: intra- and interobserver reproducibility
Authors: Gauw S A , Pronk P , Mooij M C , Gaastra M T W , Lawson J A , van Vlijmen-van Keulen C J
Published: February 2012

In a long-term follow-up study comparing saphenofemoral ligation and stripping with endovenous laser ablation, the groin is examined yearly by duplex ultrasound (DUS) to detect postoperative varicose vein recurrence. Clear criteria are needed for the uniformity of DUS observations. Physicians taking care of the follow-up were evaluated by an intra- and interobserver analysis. DUS films of 22 patients with no recurrence and 22 patients with recurrence of varicose veins were twice interpreted in two sessions. Observations were analysed by a kappa test. Interpretations of DUS by experienced observers show a kappa >7. Improved kappa results were measured over time in our physician in training. In conclusion, the reproducibility of DUS studies performed by the experienced observers of the study is excellent.
Renal cortical necrosis, peripheral gangrene, perinephric and retroperitoneal haematoma in a patient with a viper bite
Authors: Kumar Susheel , Sharma Aman , Sodhi Kushaljit S , Wanchu Ajay , Khandelwal Niranjan , Singh Surjit
Published: February 2012

Snakebites are estimated to affect more than 2.5 million people annually, of whom more than 100,000 die. Viper bites cause various systemic symptoms such as: coagulopathy; haemolysis; acute renal failure; a generalized increase in capillary permeability; rhabdomyolysis; and neurotoxicity. Wide spectrums of vascular complications are seen. We report the case of a patient developing gangrenous changes in a lower limb along with the development of perinepheric and retroperitoneal haematoma with acute cortical necrosis of the kidneys.
Conformationally constrained and nanoparticle-targeted paclitaxels
Authors: Kingston David G. I. , Tamarkin Lawrence , Paciotti Giulio F.
Published: February 2012

Paclitaxel (Taxol®) is one of the most important anticancer agents developed over the last 30 years. Its primary mechanism of action is by interaction with the cellular protein tubulin, causing irreversible polymerization to microtubules. A detailed knowledge of this crucial interaction is thus of paramount importance in the design and development of highly potent analogs and also for the potential development of “non-taxane” tubulin polymerization agents. This review briefly describes the discovery and development of taxol, and then describes our work on delineating the tubulin-binding conformation of paclitaxel by a combination of rotational echo double resonance (REDOR) NMR and molecular modeling. The resulting “T-taxol” conformation was validated by the synthesis of conformationally constrained paclitaxel analogs, which had bioactivities up to 20-fold higher than those of paclitaxel. The review concludes with recent work on the development of a gold nanoparticle derivative of paclitaxel. This delivery method has the potential to lower the dosage of paclitaxel needed while maintaining or increasing its effectiveness, thus significantly improving the benefits of this important chemotherapeutic agent.
Construction of novel molecular architectures from anthracene units and acetylene linkers
Authors: Toyota Shinji
Published: February 2012

To create novel π-conjugated compounds, we constructed various molecular architectures from anthracene units and acetylene linkers. Several cyclic oligomers ranging from dimers to dodecamers were synthesized by macrocyclization of acyclic precursors with metal-catalyzed coupling reactions. The structures, dynamic behavior, and spectroscopic features were greatly influenced by the number of anthracene units and the combination of building units and linkers. Optically active and circular dichroism (CD)-active enantiomers of some chiral cyclic oligomers were resolved by chiral high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Conformational analysis of hexamers and higher oligomers was performed with the aid of density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Acyclic oligomers underwent reversible folding–unfolding processes via photochemical and thermal reactions. These results suggest that transannular π–π interactions between anthracene units are important factors in controlling the structural and spectroscopic properties and functions of π-conjugated compounds. The scope and perspectives of this molecular design are discussed on the basis of previous studies.
Designing Messages to Motivate Parents To Get Their Preteenage Sons Vaccinated Against Human Papillomavirus
Authors: Cates Joan R. , Ortiz Rebecca , Shafer Autumn , Romocki LaHoma Smith , Coyne‐Beasley Tamera
Published: February 2012

CONTEXT:
Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, licensed for use in 9‐–26‐year‐olds, is most effective when given before sexual activity begins. HPV causes genital warts, is associated with several cancers and disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minorities. Parents are typically unaware of male HPV vaccine; messages that might motivate them to get their preteenage sons vaccinated are unexplored.

METHODS:
Messages promoting vaccination of preteenage boys were designed and tested in 2009 and 2010. Five focus groups were conducted with 29 black parents of 11–12‐year‐old boys, recruited through three churches and a middle school in North Carolina, and a racially diverse sample of 100 parents of 9–13‐year‐old boys in a university‐based adolescent health clinic was interviewed. A constant comparison method was used to code transcripts and interpret themes. Chi‐square and t tests or analyses of variance were used to assess differences in quantitative data.

RESULTS:
Focus group parents knew little about HPV in males. Although concerned about safety and cost, parents supported vaccination for their sons. They wanted to see racial diversity and both parents in motivational materials. In interviews, 89% of parents reported never having heard of male HPV vaccine. The largest proportion said that a message stressing the prevalence and possible consequences of HPV infection was the most motivating (32%); the design favored by the largest proportion (43%) showed two parents.

CONCLUSIONS:
Messages that may most motivate parents to get preteenage boys vaccinated against HPV focus on infection risk and include images of parents with their sons.
B2B Brand Architecture
Authors: Muylle Steve , Dawar Niraj , Rangarajan Deva
Published: February 2012

This article, based on work with dozens of Business-to-Business firms, extracts general principles of brand architecture design based on specific examples, and then tests these principles by applying them more broadly to a wide sample of brand architectures. B2B brand architecture is a function of two key dimensions: the organizational structure, in particular, the extent to which a firm is centralized or decentralized (in terms of its product range, sales, and marketing); and the extent to which the firm's market offerings are standardized versus customized. This framework and the axiom of risk alleviation through the sales process together capture the principal elements of B2B brand architecture design. (Business to business (B2B), Brand management, Case Study)
The Renaissance CIO Project: The Invisible Factors of Extraordinary Success
Authors: Spitze James Moffat , Lee Judith J.
Published: February 2012

As the role of the CIO continues to evolve, the determinants of CIO success remain elusive. Numerous articles and books have been written offering solutions to this problem. Is it placement in the organization's reporting structure, a combination of technical and managerial skills, or something more unique? This article identifies the most important role-specific CIO career success factors based on an examination of the careers of fourteen highly successful CIOs selected by a committee of globally respected peers.
Flexible Footprints: Reconfiguring MNCs for New Value Opportunities
Authors: Maitland Elizabeth , Sammartino Andre
Published: February 2012

Powerful technological, regulatory, and economic forces compel the senior executives of multinational corporations (MNCs) to repeatedly re-evaluate and reconfigure value chains in the search for ongoing competitive advantage. However, releasing assets from existing activities and redeploying them to new opportunities is a challenging and poorly understood task. In particular, the standard strategic management concepts of use- and firm-flexibility overlook the crucial international dimension of location. Utilizing examples from GM, Qantas, and a mining MNC, this article argues that strategic flexibility should be consciously measured along all three dimensions. By using the decision tool set out in this article, MNC executives can map their worldwide footprint of strategic roadblocks and opportunities to expand into new markets, divest redundant businesses, and build flexibility to adapt to future challenges.
Quality of life in patients with HTLV-I associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis
Authors: Martins José Vicente Pereira , Baptista Abrahão Fontes , Araújo Abelardo de Queiroz Campos
Published: February 2012

OBJECTIVE: To assess the quality of life (QoL) of patients with HTLV-I-associate myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) and to correlate it with specific aspects of the disease. METHODS: Fifty-seven HAM/TSP patients completed the SF-36 QoL questionnaire. They were also asked about common complaints related to the disease, and we looked for associations between QoL and these complaints. RESULTS: Patients with HAM/TSP showed a strong negative association to QoL. Pain was the condition which most affected their QoL. The practice of physical activity is associated with better QoL in five out of eight domains of the scale. CONCLUSION: HAM/TSP leads to a poor QoL, mostly influenced by pain. Physical activity may have a positive association to QoL of these patients.
Características das papilas o dorso da língua de cabras (Capra hircus): estudo por de microscopia eletrônica de varredura e luz
Authors: Fonseca Erika Toledo da , Oliveira Cláudia Marinovic de , Franciolli André Luís Rezende , Miglino Maria Angélica
Published: February 2012

A morfologia das papilas linguais da cabra doméstica (Capra hircus) foi estudada por Microscopia Eletrônica de Varredura (MEV) e Microscopia de luz. Papilasfiiliformes, cônicas e lentiformes possuem função mecânica, enquanto que as papilas fungiformes e as valadas possuem função gustativa. As papilasfiiliformes estavam distribuídas por toda a extensão da língua, nas superfícies dorsal e lateral. Possuem um formato cônico com a extremidade pontiaguda direcionada caudalmente. Possuem vários processos secundários, de tamanhos diferentes, com a mesma orientação. A histologia revelou abundante tecido queratinizado. As papilas fungiformes foram observadas nas superfícies dorsal e lateral do ápice e do corpo da língua. Possuem formato semelhante a cogumelos, com epitélio corni[1]icado espesso e botões gustativos distribuídos na superfície. As papilas lentiformes se distribuíam na linha mediana da parte mais dorsal do toro, com projeções elevadas além da superfície da língua. Algumas apresentavam o formato de pirâmide e outras um formato mais achatado. As papilas valadas foram encontradas na superfície lateral da parte mais caudal do toro. Possuem formato arredondado, envolvido por um sulco pouco profundo. Possuem botões gustativos na parede lateral que se abrem no sulco. As papilas cônicas foram observadas no toro da língua e possuem formato alongado, com base larga e ponta romba. Embora as principais características morfológicas e estruturais do epitélio lingual sejam específicas da espécie, o tipo de alimentação e os hábitos alimentares podem influenciar na sua estrutura. Assim, o presente trabalho fornece uma descrição histológica e ultraestrutural da língua de cabras domésticas submetidas à alimentação baseada em gramíneas e ração.
Comparison of two methods for glucocorticoid evaluation in maned wolves
Authors: Vasconcellos Angélica S , Chelini Marie-Odile M , Palme Rupert , Guimarães Marcelo A.B.V , Oliveira Cláudio A , Ades César
Published: February 2012

Analysis of faecal glucocorticoid metabolites provides a powerful noninvasive tool for monitoring adrenocortical activity in wild animals. However, differences regarding the metabolism and excretion of these substances make a validation for each species and sex investigated obligatory. Although maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus) are the biggest canids in South America, their behaviour and physiology are poorly known and they are at risk in the wild. Two methods for measuring glucocorticoid metabolites in maned wolves were validated: a radio- and an enzyme immunoassay. An ACTH challenge was used to demonstrate that changes in adrenal function are reflected in faecal glucocorticoid metabolites. Our results suggest that both methods enable a reliable assessment of stress hormones in maned wolves avoiding short-term rises in glucocorticoid concentrations due to handling and restraint. These methods can be used as a valuable tool in studies of stress and conservation in this wild species.
Formação permanente: a necessidade da interação entre a Ciência dos cientistas e a Ciência da sala de aula
Authors: Vianna Deise Miranda , Carvalho Anna Maria Pessoa de
Published: February 2012

O trabalho propõe uma reflexão sobre a formação continuada, enfatizando um curso de atualização em conteúdos científicos em desenvolvimento na área de Saúde e Meio Ambiente e a proposta de modificação da prática pedagógica dos cursistas, após freqüência ao curso (Vianna, 1998). Investigamos se os cursistas que assistiram as palestras, freqüentaram laboratórios e vivenciaram o dia a dia dos pesquisadores, modificaram a sua maneira de ver a Ciência e mostraram interesse em alterar a sua prática docente. Estabelecemos as seguintes categorias, a partir das reflexões dos cursistas, relacionadas à formação permanente: reflexão sobre concepção de ensino, adequação e sugestões para a sala de aula e necessidade de oportunidade de formação continuada. Concluímos que, para uma melhor formação permanente de professores das áreas de ciências, a interação entre a Ciência dos cientistas e a Ciência da sala de aula deve estar presente.
Pesquisa em educação: os movimentos sociais e a reconstrução epistemológica num contexto de colonialidade
Authors: Streck Danilo Romeu , Adams Telmo
Published: February 2012

O artigo busca explicitar aspectos da epistemologia que embasam uma ação investigativa coerente com a educação emancipadora na América Latina. O pano de fundo a partir do qual se desenham alternativas para o conhecimento e a transformação da realidade é constituído pelas discussões sobre a colonialidade. A história revela que, junto com a subserviência epistêmica, houve e continua havendo um movimento contra-hegemônico que valoriza não só os saberes autóctones, mas também as distintas formas de conhecer. Adota-se o conceito epistemologias do Sul, de Boaventura de Sousa Santos, para designar as expressões historicamente tornadas invisíveis e que encontram múltiplas maneiras de sobreviver, resistir e expressar-se. Após a retomada histórica de cunho filosófico-epistemológico com o intuito de contribuir para a reconstrução e a ampliação do quadro de referência teórico, discute-se o papel dos movimentos sociais na América Latina como espaço de gênese da educação popular e de formas de pesquisa participativa que podem continuar inspirando práticas investigativas transformadoras. Argumenta-se que os movimentos sociais, em que pese sua heterogeneidade política e ideológica, podem conter potencialidades teóricas capazes de constituir um lugar epistemológico de avaliação crítica das correntes ideológicas do Norte, oportunizar a disputa na interpretação das realidades e impulsionar metodologias de pesquisa participativas e promotoras de cidadania.
Esporte, técnica e juventude: notas sobre a antropologia filosófica de José Ortega y Gasset
Authors: Bassani Jaison José , Vaz Alexandre Fernandez
Published: February 2012

Trata o presente de uma investigação sobre o tema do esporte na obra do filósofo espanhol José Ortega y Gasset, tendo como fontes principais os doze volumes que compõem as Obras Completas do autor. Os resultados, expostos e discutidos a partir de três categorias articuladoras, revelam que o esporte, em articulação com a técnica e a juventude, temas que frequentemente aparecem inscritos no mesmo nexo interpretativo em Ortega, pode ser lido no contexto de sua obra como uma espécie de metáfora significadora do caráter lúdico e não-utilitarista da vida humana, interpretação em conformidade com as grandes questões que delineiam o núcleo central do arcabouço filosófico orteguiano. Conclui-se destacando o pioneirismo das análises de Ortega sobre o nascente processo de expansão do esporte e sua crescente importância social nas primeiras décadas do século XX, assim como a necessidade de se considerar a juventude como problemática filosófica e sociológica.
Conhecimento sobre atividade física dos estudantes de uma cidade do sul do Brasil
Authors: Silveira Eder Fontoura , Silva Marcelo Cozzensa da
Published: February 2012

O presente estudo avaliou o conhecimento dos escolares sobre atividade física (AF) e sua associação com fatores socioeconômicos, demográficos, comportamental, nutricional e de saúde. Foi realizado um estudo transversal de base escolar na cidade de Pelotas/RS com 1233 adolescentes, 54% do sexo feminino, com idades entre 13 e 19 anos. A coleta de dados foi feita através de questionário com questões fechadas. O desfecho foi analisado de forma contínua (0 a 22) e a média de acertos foi de 14.1. Mais de 60% dos adolescentes associaram corretamente AF como fator de prevenção de doenças como hipertensão, hipercolesterolemia, osteoporose e depressão. Classes sociais mais elevadas, cor da pele branca, maiores faixas etárias e anos de estudo associaram-se a maiores níveis de conhecimento. Com base nos achados, programas de educação para a saúde devem ser desenvolvidos aos jovens na tentativa de ajudar a minimizar o sedentarismo e suas morbidades associadas.
Investigação pedagógica em educação física: análise das publicações em um periódico internacional
Authors: Ribeiro Carlos Henrique
Published: February 2012

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo analisar as publicações de um periódico internacional e traçar o seu perfil editorial. A partir desta análise, traça um quadro comparativo com a produção nacional da Educação Física na sua subárea sociocultural. Para tanto, selecionamos um periódico especializado que fosse considerado de alto conceito pela plataforma WEB QUALIS periódicos, base de dados que tem sido utilizada para avaliar, em última instância, a qualidade dos Cursos de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu no Brasil. Nossas análises se pautaram em três grandes categorias, a saber: a) a presença constante de pesquisadores advindos das universidades americanas em grande parte dos artigos deste periódico; b) a discussão recorrente do papel da educação física como promotora da atividade física em ambientes formais de educação; c) a ausência de discussão epistemológica sobre a educação física neste periódico. Como conclusão, discutimos acerca da necessidade de ajustes teóricos e metodológicos por parte da comunidade acadêmica da educação física brasileira, para que seja possível publicar neste periódico internacional.
Proposta de avaliação do comportamento tático de jogadores de futebol baseada em princípios fundamentais do jogo
Authors: Costa Israel Teoldo da , Garganta Júlio , Greco Pablo Juan , Mesquita Isabel
Published: February 2012

Os instrumentos disponíveis para a avaliação do conhecimento tático processual em Futebol têm resultado de uma abordagem vaga, no que respeita à especificidade do jogo. O presente artigo tem por objetivo fundamentar conceitualmente a construção de um modelo de avaliação dos comportamentos táticos de jogadores, com base em princípios táticos fundamentais do jogo. A proposta aqui detalhada busca evidenciar a essencialidade tática do jogo e estabelecer um vínculo entre a informação proveniente da avaliação do jogador e suas implicações na transformação positiva do processo de ensino e treino.
O atletismo nos cursos de graduação em educação física
Authors: Silva Eduardo Vinícius Mota e , Darido Suraya Cristina
Published: February 2012

Este estudo propõe-se a investigar o papel e as características do ensino das disciplinas relacionadas à modalidade esportiva Atletismo em quatro cursos de graduação em Educação Física do estado de São Paulo. Para isto, utilizou-se de uma pesquisa do tipo qualitativa. Os dados foram coletados por meio de análise documental das ementas e programas; da observação de aulas e de entrevistas realizadas com professores e alunos das instituições (duas públicas e duas privadas) responsáveis por estes cursos. Por meio destas análises verificou-se que estas disciplinas têm superado algumas características relativas ao modelo curricular tradicional - esportivo. Quanto ao papel destas disciplinas, notou-se que os docentes a consideram como as responsáveis por dar condições básicas aos alunos, para que possam usufruir a modalidade esportiva como instrumental para as intervenções no mercado de trabalho.
Efeitos da participação em um Grupo de Coluna sobre as dores musculoesqueléticas, qualidade de vida e funcionalidade dos usuários de uma Unidade Básica de Saúde de Porto Alegre - Brasil
Authors: Borges Raquel Gonçalves , Vieira Adriane , Noll Matias , Bartz Patrícia Thurow , Candotti Cláudia Tarragô
Published: February 2012

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia do Grupo de Coluna ministrado em uma Unidade Básica de Saúde de Porto Alegre. Foram avaliados e reavaliados 29 usuários, os quais participaram do Grupo de Coluna. Foi utilizada a Escala Visual Analógica para avaliar a intensidade da dor, o questionário Oswestry Disability Índex para avaliar a capacidade funcional, e o questionário Short-Form Health Survey - SF-36 para avaliar a qualidade de vida. Os resultados, obtidos a partir do teste de Wilcoxon (a=0,05), demonstraram a eficácia do Grupo de Coluna na melhora da intensidade das dores musculoesqueléticas (p<0,05), na capacidade funcional (p=0,005), e na qualidade de vida nos domínios capacidade funcional (p=0,001), limitações por aspectos físico (p=0,001), dor (p=0,001), vitalidade (p=0,004), limitação emocional (p=0,026) e saúde mental (p=0,010). Conclui-se que o Grupo de Coluna foi eficaz na melhora da dor, funcionalidade e qualidade de vida dos usuários.