bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective Determination of Prevalence of Lynch Syndrome in Young Women With Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Lu Karen H. , Schorge John O. , Rodabaugh Kerry J. , Daniels Molly S. , Sun Charlotte C. , Soliman Pamela T. , White Kristin G. , Luthra Rajyalakshmi , Gershenson David M. , Broaddus Russell R.
Published: October 2007

Purpose

Age younger than 50 years at the time of colon cancer diagnosis is often used as a screening criterion for Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome). The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6 mutations in an unselected cohort of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer at age younger than 50 years.

Methods

A prospective, multicenter study was performed at three institutions. After written consent was obtained, germline mutation testing by full sequencing and large deletion analysis of the MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6 genes was performed. Tumor studies included immunohistochemistry of MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6; microsatellite instability analysis; and hypermethylation of the MLH1 promoter.

Results

Of the 100 women, nine (9%; 95% CI, 4.2 to 16.4) carried a deleterious germline mutation: seven women with mutations in MSH2, one woman with a mutation in MLH1, and one woman with a mutation in MSH6. Two additional women had molecular studies consistent with the diagnosis of Lynch syndrome. The mean body mass index (BMI) for the entire cohort was 34.4, which is significantly higher than 29.2, the mean BMI for the mutation carriers. Predictors of finding a germline mutation included having a first-degree relative with a Lynch syndrome–associated cancer, endometrial tumor with loss of MSH2 expression, tumors with high microsatellite instability, and lower BMI.

Conclusion

In this prospective study of endometrial cancer patients younger than age 50 years, 9% were found to carry germline Lynch syndrome–associated mutations. In addition to young age of onset, family history, BMI, and molecular tumor studies can improve the likelihood of identifying a Lynch syndrome–associated germline mutation in MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6.
American Society of Clinical Oncology Endorsement of the Cancer Care Ontario Practice Guideline on Nonhormonal Therapy for Men With Metastatic Hormone-Refractory (castration-resistant) Prostate Cancer
Authors: Basch Ethan M. , Somerfield Mark R. , Beer Tomasz M. , Carducci Michael A. , Higano Celestia S. , Hussain Maha H.A. , Scher Howard I.
Published: October 2007

Purpose

In 2006, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Board of Directors (BOD) approved a policy and a set of procedures for endorsing clinical practice guidelines that have been developed by other professional organizations.

Methods

The Cancer Care Ontario (CCO) Guideline on Non-Hormonal Therapy for Men With Metastatic Hormone-Refractory Prostate Cancer (HRPC) was reviewed for developmental rigor by methodologists. An ad hoc prostate cancer guideline review panel consisting of prostate cancer experts reviewed the content.

Results

The ASCO ad hoc prostate cancer guideline review panel concurred that the recommendations are clear, thorough, based on the most relevant scientific evidence in this content area, and present options that will be acceptable to patients. The CCO guideline was subsequently endorsed by the ASCO BOD. The guideline recommends the use of docetaxel, prednisone/hydrocortisone, and/or mitoxantrone in specific settings. Docetaxel-based chemotherapy is the only treatment that has demonstrated an overall survival benefit in men with HRPC. The use of estramustine in combination with other cytotoxic agents is not recommended. Continued gonadal androgen suppression and discontinuance of antiandrogens is recommended for men receiving chemotherapy.

Conclusion

The review panel agreed with the recommendations as stated in the CCO guideline, with the following qualifications: two of the ASCO content reviewers noted the importance of considering other, nonhormonal therapies in this context that are beyond the scope of this guideline. The review panel notes that CCO has published separate guidelines on radiopharmaceuticals and bisphosphonates in men with castration-resistant (ie, hormone-refractory) metastatic prostate cancer.
On the wave of creativity: Children, expressive languages and technology
Authors: Piazza Giovanni
Published: October 2007

This paper discusses four key principles of the Reggio Emilia approach. The first concerns the multiple possibilities children possess for forms of communication. The second concerns the connections between different languages (disciplines) that are the basis for learning and understanding.
The third focuses on creativity as process rather than product. The fourth explores the ways individual and group knowledge processes are developed for children, teachers and parents through research based aesthetic activity.
Manipulation, simulation, stimulation: the role of art education in the digital age
Authors: Flood Adele , Bamford Anne
Published: October 2007

Today we lag behind the events. Reality has disappeared in the wake of the acceleration of things. Simulacra guarantee the continuation of the real. Signs that used to represent things have become drained of their meaning and there is no absolute truth, merely different versions of
events or things. We now live in a world without originals and Baudrillard suggests we now must capture forms and make them relate to each other rather than liberating them. If we are to accept Baudrillard's view of the world, we must first acknowledge that consumption has become the basis
of social order. This article addresses how we, as art educators, must help those we teach understand how the imagery and text of the virtual world is manipulated. By informing and educating individuals to understand these processes and products we can provide them with a clearer view of the
imagined and constructed world, thereby enabling them to articulate their own visions through ever growing and changing technologies.
CD36 polymorphism and its relationship with body mass index and coronary artery disease in a Korean population
Authors: Min Yun Yeo , Young Song Eun , Hoon Song Sang , Song Junghan , Kim Jin Q.
Published: October 2007

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1277–82.
Methylprednisolone, cortisol and the cell-mediated immune response in children after ventricular septal defect repair
Authors: Grosek Stefan , Ihan Alojz , Wraber Branka , Gabrijelcic Tone , Kosin Miro , Osredkar Josko , Gmeiner Günter , Grabnar Iztok , Primozic Janez
Published: October 2007

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1366–72.
Point-of-care creatinine testing in children at risk for sudden deterioration of renal function
Authors: Schenk Paul W. , Cransberg Karlien , Wolff Eric D. , de Rijke Yolanda B.
Published: October 2007

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1536–41.
Cytokines and growth factors in mostly atherosclerotic patients on hemodialysis determined by biochip array technology
Authors: Sertic Jadranka , Slavicek Jasna , Bozina Nada , Malenica Branko , Kes Petar , Reiner Zeljko
Published: October 2007

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1347–52.
Biochemical properties of endogenous presenilin 1 and presenilin 2 in cultured human B-lymphocytes
Authors: Bojarski Lukasz , Lewandowicz Andrzej , Blazejczyk Magdalena , Sobczak Adam , Kuznicki Jacek , Wojda Urszula
Published: October 2007

Clin Chem Lab Med 2007;45:1273–6.
Inhibition of Rho via Arg and p190RhoGAP in the Postnatal Mouse Hippocampus Regulates Dendritic Spine Maturation, Synapse and Dendrite Stability, and Behavior
Authors: Sfakianos Mindan K. , Eisman Aaron , Gourley Shannon L. , Bradley William D. , Scheetz Alfred J. , Settleman Jeffrey , Taylor Jane R. , Greer Charles A. , Williamson Anne , Koleske Anthony J.
Published: October 2007

The RhoA (Rho) GTPase is a master regulator of dendrite morphogenesis. Rho activation in developing neurons slows dendrite branch dynamics, yielding smaller, less branched dendrite arbors. Constitutive activation of Rho in mature neurons causes dendritic spine loss and dendritic regression, indicating that Rho can affect dendritic structure and function even after dendrites have developed. However, it is unclear whether and how endogenous Rho modulates dendrite and synapse morphology after dendrite arbor development has occurred. We demonstrate that a Rho inhibitory pathway involving the Arg tyrosine kinase and p190RhoGAP is essential for synapse and dendrite stability during late postnatal development. Hippocampal CA1 pyramidal dendrites develop normally inarg−/−mice, reaching their mature size by postnatal day 21 (P21). However, dendritic spines do not undergo the normal morphological maturation in these mice, leading to a loss of hippocampal synapses and dendritic branches by P42. Coincident with this synapse and dendrite loss,arg−/−mice exhibit progressive deficits in a hippocampus-dependent object recognition behavioral task. p190RhoGAP localizes to dendritic spines, and its activity is reduced inarg−/−hippocampus, leading to increased Rho activity. Although mutations inp190rhogapenhance dendritic regression resulting from decreased Arg levels, reducing gene dosage of the Rho effector ROCKII can suppress the dendritic regression observed inarg−/−mice. Together, these data indicate that signaling through Arg and p190RhoGAP acts late during synaptic refinement to promote dendritic spine maturation and synapse/dendrite stability by attenuating synaptic Rho activity.
The Role ofFoxg1and Dorsal Midline Signaling in the Generation of Cajal-Retzius Subtypes
Authors: Hanashima Carina , Fernandes Marie , Hebert Jean M. , Fishell Gord
Published: October 2007

Cajal-Retzius (CR) cells, the earliest-born neurons in the neocortex, arise from discrete sources within the telencephalon, including the dorsal midline and the pallial–subpallial boundary (PSB). In particular, the cortical hem, a region of high bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) andWnt(wingless-type MMTV integration site family) expression but lacking inFoxg1(forkhead box G1) is a major source of CR neurons. Whether CR cells from distinct origins arise from disparate developmental processes or share a common mechanism is unclear. To elucidate the molecular basis of CR cell development, we assessed the role of bothFoxg1and dorsal midline signaling in the production of cortical hem- and PSB-derived CR cells. We demonstrate that the loss ofFoxg1results in the overproduction of both of these CR populations. However, removal ofFoxg1at embryonic day 13, although expanding the number of CR cells with a PSB phenotype, does not result in an expansion of BMPs or Wnts in the dorsomedial signaling center. Conversely, loss of the dorsal midline ligands as observed inGli3(glioma-associated oncogene homolog 3) mutants results in the loss of the cortical hem-derived CR character but does not affect the specification of PSB-derived CR cells. Hence, our findings demonstrate that, although the specification of cortical hem-derived CR cells is dependent on signaling from the dorsal midline,Foxg1functions to repress the generation of both cortical hem- and PSB-derived CR cells.
The Neural Bases of the Short-Term Storage of Verbal Information Are Anatomically Variable across Individuals
Authors: Feredoes Eva , Tononi Giulio , Postle Bradley R.
Published: October 2007

What are the precise brain regions supporting the short-term retention of verbal information? A previous functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study suggested that they may be topographically variable across individuals, occurring, in most, in regions posterior to prefrontal cortex (PFC), and that detection of these regions may be best suited to a single-subject (SS) approach to fMRI analysis (Feredoes and Postle, 2007). In contrast, other studies using spatially normalized group-averaged (SNGA) analyses have localized storage-related activity to PFC. To evaluate the necessity of the regions identified by these two methods, we applied repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to SS- and SNGA-identified regions throughout the retention period of a delayed letter-recognition task. Results indicated that rTMS targeting SS analysis-identified regions of left perisylvian and sensorimotor cortex impaired performance, whereas rTMS targeting the SNGA-identified region of left caudal PFC had no effect on performance. Our results support the view that the short-term retention of verbal information can be supported by regions associated with acoustic, lexical, phonological, and speech-based representation of information. They also suggest that the brain bases of some cognitive functions may be better detected by SS than by SNGA approaches to fMRI data analysis.
Spatial Genetic Patterning of the Embryonic Neuroepithelium Generates GABAergic Interneuron Diversity in the Adult Cortex
Authors: Fogarty Matthew , Grist Matthew , Gelman Diego , Marín Oscar , Pachnis Vassilis , Kessaris Nicoletta
Published: October 2007

Cortical pyramidal cells are generated from pallial neuroepithelial precursors, whereas GABAergic interneurons originate in subpallial germinal zones and migrate tangentially to reach the cortex. Using Cre–lox technology in transgenic mice and a series of molecular markers that subdivide the subpallial neuroepithelium into small domains, we fate-map precursor pools and identify interneurons generated from each domain. Cortical interneurons expressing calbindin, parvalbumin, and somatostatin are generated exclusively fromLhx6(Lim homeobox 6)-expressing precursors in the medial ganglionic eminence (MGE). Martinotti cells that coexpress calretinin and somatostatin are generated from the dorsal region of the MGE neuroepithelium that expressesNkx6.2(NK2 transcription factor-related 6.2). Most neuropeptide Y-expressing cells and all bipolar calretinin-expressing interneurons are generated outside the MGE, from the germinal zones of the lateral/caudal ganglionic eminences that expressGsh2(genomic screened homeobox 2). Our data demonstrate that subpallial neuroepithelial domains defined by expression of genetic determinants generate distinct interneuron subtypes, thereby contributing to the generation of cortical interneuron heterogeneity observed in the adult cortex.
Posteromedial Parietal Cortical Activity and Inputs Predict Tactile Spatial Acuity
Authors: Stilla Randall , Deshpande Gopikrishna , LaConte Stephen , Hu Xiaoping , Sathian K.
Published: October 2007

We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate the neural circuitry underlying tactile spatial acuity at the human finger pad. Stimuli were linear, three-dot arrays, applied to the immobilized right index finger pad using a computer-controlled, MRI-compatible, pneumatic stimulator. Activity specific for spatial processing was isolated by contrasting discrimination of left–right offsets of the central dot in the array with discrimination of the duration of stimulation by an array without a spatial offset. This contrast revealed activity in a distributed frontoparietal cortical network, within which the levels of activity in right posteromedial parietal cortical foci [right posterior intraparietal sulcus (pIPS) and right precuneus] significantly predicted individual acuity thresholds. Connectivity patterns were assessed using both bivariate analysis of Granger causality with the right pIPS as a reference region and multivariate analysis of Granger causality for a selected set of regions. The strength of inputs into the right pIPS was significantly greater in subjects with better acuity than those with poorer acuity. In the better group, the paths predicting acuity converged from the left postcentral sulcus and right frontal eye field onto the right pIPS and were selective for the spatial task, and their weights predicted the level of right pIPS activity. We propose that the optimal strategy for fine tactile spatial discrimination involves interaction in the pIPS of a top-down control signal, possibly attentional, with somatosensory cortical inputs, reflecting either visualization of the spatial configurations of tactile stimuli or engagement of modality-independent circuits specialized for fine spatial processing.
Role of Nitric Oxide in Classical Conditioning of Siphon Withdrawal inAplysia
Authors: Antonov Igor , Ha Thomas , Antonova Irina , Moroz Leonid L. , Hawkins Robert D.
Published: October 2007

Nitric oxide (NO) is thought to be involved in several forms of learningin vivoand synaptic plasticityin vitro, but very little is known about the role of NO during physiological forms of plasticity that occur during learning. We addressed that question in a simplified preparation of theAplysiasiphon-withdrawal reflex. We first usedin situhybridization to show that the identified L29 facilitator neurons express NO synthase. Furthermore, exogenous NO produced facilitation of sensory–motor neuron EPSPs, and an inhibitor of NO synthase or an NO scavenger blocked behavioral conditioning. Application of the scavenger to the ganglion or injection into a sensory neuron blocked facilitation of the EPSP and changes in the sensory–neuron membrane properties during conditioning. Injection of the scavenger into the motor neuron reduced facilitation without affecting sensory neuron membrane properties, and injection of an inhibitor of NO synthase had no effect. Postsynaptic injection of an inhibitor of exocytosis had effects similar to injection of the scavenger. However, changes in the shape of the EPSP during conditioning were not consistent with postsynaptic AMPA-like receptor insertion but were mimicked by presynaptic spike broadening. These results suggest that NO makes an important contribution during conditioning and acts directly in both the sensory and motor neurons to affect different processes of facilitation at the synapses between them. In addition, they suggest that NO does not come from either the sensory or motor neurons but rather comes from another source, perhaps the L29 interneurons.
Real-Time Imaging of Discrete Exocytic Events Mediating Surface Delivery of AMPA Receptors
Authors: Yudowski Guillermo A. , Puthenveedu Manojkumar A. , Leonoudakis Dmitri , Panicker Sandip , Thorn Kurt S. , Beattie Eric C. , von Zastrow Mark
Published: October 2007

We directly resolved discrete exocytic fusion events mediating insertion of AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) to the somatodendritic surface of rat hippocampal pyramidal neurons, in slice and dissociated cultures, using protein tagging with a pH-sensitive GFP (green fluorescent protein) variant and rapid (10 frames/s) fluorescence microscopy. AMPAR-containing exocytic events occurred under basal culture conditions in both the cell body and dendrites; potentiating chemical stimuli produced an NMDA receptor-dependent increase in the frequency of individual exocytic events. The number of AMPARs inserted per exocytic event, estimated using single-molecule analysis, was quite uniform but individual events differed significantly in kinetic properties affecting the subsequent surface distribution of receptors. “Transient” events, from which AMPARs dispersed laterally immediately after surface insertion, generated a pronounced but short-lived (dissipating within ∼1 s) increase in surface AMPAR fluorescence extending locally (2–5 μm) from the site of exocytosis. “Persistent” events, from which inserted AMPARs dispersed slowly (typically over 5–10 s), affected local surface receptor concentration to a much smaller degree. Both modes of exocytic insertion occurred throughout the dendritic shaft, but remarkably, neither mode of insertion was observed directly into synaptic spines. AMPARs entered spines preferentially from transient events occurring in the adjoining dendritic shaft, driven apparently by mass action and short-range lateral diffusion, and locally delivered AMPARs remained mostly in the mobile fraction. These results suggest a highly dynamic mechanism for both constitutive and activity-dependent surface delivery of AMPARs, mediated by kinetically distinct exocytic modes that differ in propensity to drive lateral entry of receptors to nearby synapses.
Modular Control of Limb Movements during Human Locomotion
Authors: Ivanenko Yuri P. , Cappellini Germana , Dominici Nadia , Poppele Richard E. , Lacquaniti Francesco
Published: October 2007

The idea that the CNS may control complex interactions by modular decomposition has received considerable attention. We explored this idea for human locomotion by examining limb kinematics. The coordination of limb segments during human locomotion has been shown to follow a planar law for walking at different speeds, directions, and levels of body unloading. We compared the coordination for different gaits. Eight subjects were asked to walk and run on a treadmill at different speeds or to walk, run, and hop over ground at a preferred speed. To explore various constraints on limb movements, we also recorded stepping over an obstacle, walking with the knees flexed, and air-stepping with body weight support. We found little difference among covariance planes that depended on speed, but there were differences that depended on gait. In each case, we could fit the planar trajectories with a weighted sum of the limb length and orientation trajectories. This suggested that limb length and orientation might provide independent predictors of limb coordination. We tested this further by having the subjects step, run, and hop in place, thereby varying only limb length and maintaining limb orientation fixed, and also by marching with knees locked to maintain limb length constant while varying orientation. The results were consistent with a modular control of limb kinematics where limb movements result from a superposition of separate length- and orientation-related angular covariance. The hypothesis finds support in the animal findings that limb proprioception may also be encoded in terms of these global limb parameters.
Identification and Characterization of a Y-Like Primate Retinal Ganglion Cell Type
Authors: Petrusca Dumitru , Grivich Matthew I. , Sher Alexander , Field Greg D. , Gauthier Jeffrey L. , Greschner Martin , Shlens Jonathon , Chichilnisky E. J. , Litke Alan M.
Published: October 2007

The primate retina communicates visual information to the brain via a set of parallel pathways that originate from at least 22 anatomically distinct types of retinal ganglion cells. Knowledge of the physiological properties of these ganglion cell types is of critical importance for understanding the functioning of the primate visual system. Nonetheless, the physiological properties of only a handful of retinal ganglion cell types have been studied in detail. Here we show, using a newly developed multielectrode array system for the large-scale recording of neural activity, the existence of a physiologically distinct population of ganglion cells in the primate retina with distinctive visual response properties. These cells, which we will refer to as upsilon cells, are characterized by large receptive fields, rapid and transient responses to light, and significant nonlinearities in their spatial summation. Based on the measured properties of these cells, we speculate that they correspond to the smooth/large radiate cells recently identified morphologically in the primate retina and may therefore provide visual input to both the lateral geniculate nucleus and the superior colliculus. We further speculate that the upsilon cells may be the primate retina's counterparts of the Y-cells observed in the cat and other mammalian species.
Modulatory Proteins Can Rescue a Trafficking Defective Epileptogenic Nav1.1 Na+Channel Mutant
Authors: Rusconi Raffaella , Scalmani Paolo , Cassulini Rita Restano , Giunti Giulia , Gambardella Antonio , Franceschetti Silvana , Annesi Grazia , Wanke Enzo , Mantegazza Massimo
Published: October 2007

Familial epilepsies are often caused by mutations of voltage-gated Na+channels, but correlation genotype–phenotype is not yet clear. In particular, the cause of phenotypic variability observed in some epileptic families is unclear. We studied Nav1.1 (SCN1A) Na+channel α subunit M1841T mutation, identified in a family characterized by a particularly large phenotypic spectrum. The mutant is a loss of function because when expressed alone, the current was no greater than background. Function was restored by incubation at temperature <30°C, showing that the mutant is trafficking defective, thus far the first case among neuronal Na+channels. Importantly, also molecular interactions with modulatory proteins or drugs were able to rescue the mutant. Protein–protein interactions may modulate the effect of the mutationin vivoand thus phenotype; variability in their strength may be one of the causes of phenotypic variability in familial epilepsy. Interacting drugs may be used to rescue the mutantin vivo.
American Ethnological Society
Authors: Rothstein Fran
Published: October 2007

•AES in Toronto •Democracy, Disorder and Discontent
Archeology Division
Authors: Alexander Rani T
Published: October 2007

•Archaeologists Honored at AAA Meeting •2007 Archeology Division Election Results •Spring 2007 Business Meeting
Association for Political and Legal Anthropology
Authors: Krause Elizabeth , Bhan Mona
Published: October 2007

•Ethnography and High‐Stakes Testing Amanda Walker Johnson
Central States Anthropological Society
Authors: Ismail Zohra , Glaros Angela
Published: October 2007

•Election News •Call for Nominations •2007 CSAS Student Paper Prize •2007 White and Dillingham Awards •Communications Updates •Member News
Council on Anthropology and Education
Authors: Baltodano Marta P
Published: October 2007

•A Transition Plan for New Presidential Terms Perry Gilmore, Norma Gonzales  •Writing a Graphic Novel Guide to Ethnography for Beginners Sally Galman
National Association for the Practice of Anthropology
Authors: Treitler Inga E
Published: October 2007

•Changes in NAPA •NAPA in DC •Practitioner Brief: Practical Tips for Practitioners Who Want to Open a Business Christina Bolas
Society for the Anthropology of Conciousness
Authors: McBride Lawrence B
Published: October 2007

•Review of SAC Spring 2007 Conference Constantine Hriskos
Society for the Anthropology of Work
Authors: Jancius Angela
Published: October 2007

•Class Today: A Zambian Perspective Owen Ben Sichone
Society for Cultural Anthropology
Authors: Pigg Stacy Leigh
Published: October 2007

•Isabelle Stengers at the AAA •2008 Spring Meeting in Long Beach
Society for Humanistic Anthropology
Authors: Gleach Frederic W , Santiago‐Irizarry Vilma
Published: October 2007

•Changes in the Wind
Society for Psychological Anthropology
Authors: Chapin Bambi
Published: October 2007

•SPA Election Results Tom Weisner  •Seeking an SPA Student Board Member: Nominations Due by October 19 Nicole Falgoust
Society for Urban, National and Transnational/Global Anthropology
Authors: Gozdziak Elzbieta M , Bastellanos Maria Bianet
Published: October 2007

•SUNTA at Tampa David Haines  •Yucatec Maya Migration to the US Carlos Bazua
Society for Visual Anthropology
Authors: Barriga Miguel Diaz
Published: October 2007

•23rd Annual Visual Research Conference
Optimization of Vessel Orientation for Robotic Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Recanati Maurice-Andre , Agnihotri Arvind K. , White Jennifer K. , Titus James , Torchiana David F.
Published: October 2007

The availability of telemanipulation robots has not yet resulted in the emergence of a reliable endoscopic coronary bypass procedure. A major challenge in performing a closed-chest coronary operation is creating a high-quality anastomosis in a reasonable period of time. In this experimental study, the impact of distal vessel orientation on the speed and accuracy of anastomosis was quantifed. We found that vessel orientation and the relative angle of the surgical plane influence anastomosis speed, the trauma to the vessel, the accuracy of stitch placement, and the eventual achievement of hemostasis. Our results suggest that the speed and accuracy of a robotically performed anastomosis of a vessel graft to a coronary artery can be improved by making small changes in vessel orientation. Vessels should be positioned between the horizontal and diagonal orientation and inclined between the horizontal and +45. Because the 6-o'clock stitch is particularly challenging, surgeons may benefit from an orientation that moves the heel or the toe of the anastomosis away from this critical position.
Homocysteine Levels in Patients Undergoing Open-Heart Surgery
Authors: Becit Necip , Kele? Sait , �nl� Yahya , Ceviz M�nacettin , Balci Ahmet Yavuz , Ko�ak Hikmet
Published: October 2007

Background: The aim of this prospective study was to determine the levels of plasma homocysteine (HCY) in patients who have undergone open-heart surgery for ischemic heart disease (IHD) or nonischemic heart disease (NIHD) and to evaluate whether an association is present between hyperhomocysteinemia and coronary artery disease.Material and Methods: We investigated prospectively 30 patients who underwent open-heart surgery. Of these patients, 15 had IHD, and 15 had NIHD such as mitral and/or aortic valve disease. The 2 groups were well matched for age, sex, body mass index, and blood pressure. In all patients HCY was assayed by high performance liquid chromatography preoperatively and on the first, second, and third day postoperatively.Results: The mean age of the patients was 57.2 years in group IHD and 52.6 years in group NIHD. The male:female ratio was 8:7 in group IHD and 7:8 in group NIHD. Of 15 patients in group IHD, 13 had hyperhomocysteinemia and 2 had normal plasma HCY levels. Of 15 patients in NIHD group, 1 had hyperhomocysteinemia and the others had normal plasma HCY levels. Preoperative plasma HCY levels of all patients in the IHD group were significantly lower during all subsequent time periods, whereas preoperative plasma HCY levels in the NIHD group were lower only on the first day post-surgery (P < .05).Conclusions: Our data suggest that plasma HCY levels in patients with IHD are associated with the development of atherogenesis and coronary artery disease. For this reason, HCY levels should be measured routinely and treated appropriately in patients with risk factors for atherosclerosis.
Outcomes for Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in High-Risk Groups: A Historical Perspective
Authors: Moore Graham J. , Pfister Albert , Trachiotis Gregory D.
Published: October 2007

Background: The outcomes of off-pump coronary artery bypass (OPCAB) and conventional coronary artery bypass grafting with cardiopulmonary bypass (cCABG) have been compared in detail. Similarly, several reports have examined outcomes of high-risk subsets of patients in OPCAB as a selection strategy for reducing morbidity and mortality compared to cCABG. We undertook a retrospective study comparing outcomes from the early years in our experience of beating-heart surgery in high-risk patients selected for OPCAB compared to low-risk patients having OPCAB. This study was premised on strict selection criteria in an era prior to stabilizing devices and cardiac positioners. Methods: A total of 384 patients underwent OPCAB over a 10-year period. Clinical outcomes were compared for 280 low-risk patients and 104 high-risk patients (redo CABG, CABG with simultaneous carotid endarterectomy, or renal insufficiency/failure). Results: The high-risk group patients were significantly older than the low-risk group patients (64.3 10.5 years versus 61.5 11.7 years, respectively, P = .048). The high-risk group also had a greater degree of left ventricular dysfunction (P < .001), a higher incidence of diabetes (P = .046), and a higher proportion of patients with peripheral vascular disease (P = .009). There was no significant difference in the number of grafts created, but there was a statistical difference in the type of graft used. The high-risk group received fewer internal thoracic artery grafts (P = .005) and more saphenous vein grafts (P = .041). The high-risk group had slightly prolonged median lengths of stay in the intensive care unit (2.2 versus 1.4 days, P < .001) and hospital (11 versus 8 days, P < .001) and a higher proportion of patients requiring blood transfusions (48% versus 24%, P < .001), yet there was no significant difference in major adverse outcomes. Conclusions: In this retrospective and historical review, OPCAB was found to be equally safe in carefully selected high- and low-risk patients. These results provided for the enthusiasm and innovation to expand the usage of OPCAB in patients with coronary artery disease.
Voices in the Space Between
Authors: Sharp Kelly
Published: October 2007

An exploration of ways in which Pentecostalism responds to economic and environmental stress on the US/Mexico border, in particular by a style of worship which focuses on healing and thus may help its followers to reclaim agency in the macroeconomic, environmental, and public health changes of the twentieth century. Feminist theory and an analysis of the significance of gender in this cultural setting and process are central to the research.
Eating Spirit
Authors: Taylor Sarah Macfarland
Published: October 2007

This article examines the spiritual and moral significance of foodways to a growing movement of ecologically minded Roman Catholic women religious (green sisters) in North America. The author contends that, despite their exclusion from official positions of leadership within the hierarchical church, green sisters demonstrate their efficacy as active producers and shapers of religious culture at the grassroots level. Drawing ‘ingredients’ from cultural movements in American environmentalism, feminism, and social reform, adding to these heritage elements from Catholic vowed religious life as well as elements from their own creative theological imaginations, these women are devising recipes for a more ecologically and spiritually nourishing religious culture. Ultimately, green sisters’ decisions about appropriate food choice, the rituals of food preparation, and the rituals of honoring and consuming food bring the sacred vows of religious life into a new context—one in which mindful cooking and eating become indispensably part of a daily ecologically sustainable spiritual practice. This practice is premised on a vision of the human as not separate from but fundamentally a part of the larger life community.
Lorraine Daston and Greg Mitman (eds.), Thinking with Animals: New Perspectives on Anthropomorphism
Authors: King Carolyn
Published: October 2007

Lorraine Daston and Greg Mitman (eds.), Thinking with Animals: New Perspectives on Anthropomorphism (New York: Columbia University Press, 2005), pp. vii + 230. Paperback $25. ISBN 0-231-13039-2. Hardback $49.50. ISBN 0-231-13038-4.
Gay Hawkins, The Ethics of Waste: How We Relate to Rubbish
Authors: Macfarlane Georgina
Published: October 2007

Gay Hawkins, The Ethics of Waste: How We Relate to Rubbish (Oxford: Rowman & Littlefield, 2006), pp. xii + 151. Paperback $24.00, ISBN 0-7425-3013-2.
Catherine Keller, God and Power: Counter-Apocalyptic Journeys
Authors: Maier Harry O.
Published: October 2007

Catherine Keller, God and Power: Counter-Apocalyptic Journeys (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2005), pp. xii + 184. Paperback $22.00, ISBN 0-8006-3727-5.
Fatores-chave de sucesso no treinamento corporativo a distância via web
Authors: Joia Luiz Antonio , Costa Mário de Figueiredo Cunha da
Published: October 2007

Treinamentos corporativos a distância via web vêm se tornando cada vez mais freqüentes, à medida que as empresas precisam continuamente capacitar seus profissionais a um custo acessível. No entanto, de um modo geral, as organizações não sabem quais são os fatores-chave de sucesso para iniciativas dessa natureza. Assim, este artigo investiga alguns fatores críticos de sucesso associados a esses empreendimentos digitais. Para tal, o método de estudo de casos múltiplos divergentes é utilizado, analisando-se dois treinamentos corporativos na web realizados por uma grande empresa multinacional - um considerado caso de sucesso e outro de fracasso. A partir da comparação dos resultados obtidos, pela análise quantitativa dos dados coletados usando-se regressões bi e multivariadas, assim como testes de comparação de médias, e vis-à-vis o frame teórico adotado para avaliação de treinamentos na web, pode-se concluir que "orientação dos objetivos", "motivação dos alunos" e "suporte metacognitivo" foram os três fatores críticos de sucesso encontrados.
Impacto estratégico dos fatores macroambientais no desempenho de concessões de serviços públicos: a CEG e a CEG RIO na ótica relacional
Authors: Bastos Sérgio A. P. , Macedo-Soares T. Diana L. v. A. de
Published: October 2007

O amplo rearranjo institucional e de mercado decorrente das privatizações de concessões de serviços públicos no Brasil em diversos setores econômicos tornou evidente a crescente necessidade de estabelecer ações de gestão que produzam o desempenho esperado dessas concessões. Inseridas num ambiente de incertezas, concessões como as de distribuição de gás canalizado têm sido pouco investigadas por pesquisadores no âmbito da gestão estratégica. Dentro de uma perspectiva relacional, o estudo investigou o impacto dos fatores macroambientais no desempenho da CEG e da CEG RIO, distribuidoras de gás canalizado do estado do Rio de Janeiro, privatizadas em julho de 1997. De acordo com a metodologia de estudo de caso de Yin (1994), foi adotada a estratégia de triangulação dos métodos. Os dados foram coletados por meio de investigação documental/telematizada, levantamento de percepções tipo survey via questionário predominantemente estruturado e entrevistas complementares. A interpretação e a análise dos dados foram realizadas com base em referenciais teóricos relacionais e com o auxílio do modelo de análise estratégica relacional de Macedo-Soares (2002). Os resultados sugeriram a adequação estratégica das empresas e confirmaram que a ótica relacional agregou valor no sentido de trazer novos insights para a tomada de decisão estratégica da CEG e da CEG RIO, em particular, e para concessões de serviços públicos, de uma forma geral.
A comunicação de informações nas instituições públicas e privadas: o caso XBRL - eXtensible Business Reporting Language no Brasil
Authors: Moreira Orandi , Riccio Edson Luiz , Sakata Marici Cristine Gramacho
Published: October 2007

O XBRL - eXtensible Business Report Language - é uma linguagem que está sendo implementada em vários países para divulgação das informações contábil-financeiras pela internet. Este artigo mostra o estado-da-arte do XBRL e como se deu sua evolução, bem como avalia o estágio atual do Brasil na divulgação de informações contábil-financeiras pela internet. Foi realizada uma pesquisa do tipo survey com empresas de capital aberto no Brasil. A pesquisa revelou uma forte aceitação do meio eletrônico para divulgação de informações financeiras e também que ainda é muito pequeno o conhecimento da linguagem XBRL no país e, conseqüentemente, menor ainda o número de entidades que já iniciaram formalmente os estudos para sua implementação. Mostrou ainda a inexistência de um padrão de divulgação de informações eletrônicas, tendo predominado os formatos PDF, HTML e DOC, o que dificulta a análise e comparação de informações entre órgãos reguladores e com o público em geral.
Densidade do solo e infiltração de água como indicadores da qualidade física de um Latossolo Vermelho distrófico em recuperação
Authors: Alves Marlene Cristina , Suzuki Luis Gustavo Akihiro Sanches , Suzuki Luiz Eduardo Akiyoshi Sanches
Published: October 2007

A necessidade cada vez maior de alimentos, espaço e condições para sobrevivência faz com que as interferências antrópicas no ambiente sejam cada vez maiores. Solos intensivamente cultivados e de forma inadequada são degradados, assim como a construção de obras civis no meio rural sem atender à legislação pertinente tudo isso tem ocasionado problemas ao meio. Várias técnicas têm sido utilizadas para recuperar esses solos, sendo a principal delas a adição de MO. Contudo, informações sobre tempo para recuperação do solo, influência dos tipos de material orgânico e indicadores das alterações ainda são escassas. Este trabalho objetivou avaliar a recuperação das propriedades de um Latossolo Vermelho distrófico, de onde foi retirado material usado na terraplanagem e nas fundações da usina hidrelétrica de Ilha Solteira-SP, utilizando-se como indicadores de qualidade física a densidade do solo e a taxa de infiltração de água. A pesquisa foi feita em uma área onde se retirou uma camada de solo de 8,60 m. O delineamento experimental foi em blocos casualizados, com cinco repetições e cinco tratamentos: testemunha (solo exposto sem técnicas de recuperação); espécie arbórea gonçalo-alves (Astronium fraxinifolium Schott); gonçalo-alves + feijão-de-porco (Canavalia ensiformis); gonçalo-alves + nabo forrageiro (Raphanus sativus); e gonçalo-alves + gramínea (Brachiaria decumbens) + lodo de esgoto (60 Mg ha-1). A densidade do solo foi avaliada antes e 356 dias após a implantação dos tratamentos, e a infiltração de água no solo foi determinada 188 dias depois da instalação dos tratamentos. Concluiu-se que ocorrem melhorias na qualidade do solo quando efetuado o seu preparo e a adição de lodo de esgoto e adubos verdes. A densidade do solo e a infiltração de água do solo são bons indicadores na avaliação dessas melhorias. As diferentes fontes de MO adicionadas ao solo e a ação do preparo deste interagem de maneira semelhante na recuperação da sua qualidade, porém a combinação lodo de esgoto mais braquiária proporciona maior altura de planta da espécie gonçalo-alves.
Homogeneidade da qualidade física do solo nas entrelinhas de um pomar de laranjeira com sistemas de manejo da vegetação permanente
Authors: Fidalski Jonez , Tormena Cássio Antonio
Published: October 2007

A qualidade física do solo é fundamental para a sustentabilidade da produção citrícola. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a homogeneidade da qualidade física do solo nas entrelinhas de um pomar de laranjeira com sistemas de manejo da vegetação permanente. O estudo foi realizado em um experimento com sistemas de manejo de solo nas entrelinhas de um pomar de laranjeira 'Pêra' sobre limoeiro 'Cravo', implantado em 1993 em um Argissolo Vermelho distrófico latossólico, em Alto Paraná, região noroeste do Estado do Paraná. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi de blocos ao acaso com três repetições. Os tratamentos de sistemas de vegetação permanente das entrelinhas foram: gramínea "mato-grosso" ou "batatais" (Paspalum notatum), leguminosa amendoim forrageiro (Arachis pintoi) e o sistema de manejo tradicional com dessecação das plantas espontâneas com herbicida. Em maio de 2003, coletaram-se 216 amostras de solo indeformadas no meio da camada de 0-15 cm de profundidade e em duas posições de amostragem, no rodado e entrerrodado do trator. As amostras de solo foram usadas para determinar o teor de água em diferentes potenciais matriciais, a densidade do solo, a porosidade total e a resistência do solo à penetração. Também foram calculados a distribuição do tamanho de poros, a capacidade de aeração do solo e o índice S. A inclusão da capacidade de aeração do solo e do índice S associado à distribuição do tamanho de poros permitiu melhor entendimento das alterações físicas resultantes do manejo do solo com vegetações permanentes nas entrelinhas do pomar de laranjeira. O aumento do volume de poros drenados sob a vegetação leguminosa reduz o teor de água do solo, confirmado pela maior capacidade de aeração e pelo índice S no rodado e entrerrodado. A qualidade física do solo na entrelinha do pomar de laranjeira mantida com gramínea é mais homogênea do que daquele com vegetações espontânea ou leguminosa.
Atributos microbianos e químicos do solo em sistemas de produção convencional e orgânico de maçãs no estado de Santa Catarina
Authors: Maluche-Baretta Carolina Riviera Duarte , Klauberg-Filho Osmar , Amarante Cassandro Vidal Talamini do , Ribeiro Genicelli Mafra , Almeida Denice
Published: October 2007

O estudo foi realizado no município de Urupema-SC, com o objetivo de avaliar os efeitos dos sistemas de produção convencional e orgânico de maçãs sobre a biomassa microbiana do solo, sua atividade e as relações com o C e o N do solo. Foram feitas amostragens de solo junto à copa de 24 plantas distribuídas em uma grade de 45 x 54 m em pomares submetidos aos dois sistemas de produção, na profundidade de 0-10 cm, nos períodos de dezembro/2002 e junho/2003, para quantificação de teores de C da biomassa microbiana (CBM), C orgânico total do solo (COT), N da biomassa microbiana (NBM), N total do solo (NT), respiração basal (C-CO2) e obtenção das relações CBM:COT, NBM:NT e quociente metabólico (qCO2). O pomar orgânico (PO) apresentou, nas duas épocas de amostragem, os maiores teores de CBM, COT e a maior relação CBM:COT, comparado ao pomar convencional (PC). Os atributos NBM e NT e a relação NBM:NT mostraram-se menos sensíveis às mudanças ocasionadas pelos sistemas de manejo dos pomares e épocas de amostragem. O C-CO2 não apresentou diferença entre tratamentos, sendo apenas significativo quanto à época de amostragem, enquanto para o qCO2 os maiores valores encontrados foram no PC.
Estoque de carbono e quantificação de substâncias húmicas em Latossolo submetido a aplicação contínua de lodo de esgoto
Authors: Dias Bruno de Oliveira , Silva Carlos Alberto , Soares Emanuelle Mercês Barros , Bettiol Wagner
Published: October 2007

Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito da aplicação contínua de doses de lodo de esgoto oriundo da Estação de Tratamento de Esgoto de Barueri, SP, sobre os teores e estoques de C e sobre as alterações na distribuição de substâncias húmicas em Latossolo Vermelho distroférrico. O experimento foi instalado em 1999, no Campo Experimental da Embrapa Meio Ambiente, em Jaguariúna-SP; os dados foram obtidos após a sexta aplicação de lodo e cultivo sucessivo de milho. Foram utilizadas, nas diferentes parcelas experimentais, as seguintes doses acumuladas de lodo de esgoto (base seca): 0, 30, 60, 120 e 240 Mg ha-1, sendo estudados os tratamentos: (L0) testemunha sem adição de lodo; e aplicação de lodo de esgoto visando fornecer uma (L1), duas (L2), quatro (L4) e oito (L8) vezes a dose de N requerida pelo milho. Foram avaliados os teores e o estoque de C orgânico nas camadas de solo de 0-10, 10-20, 20-40 e 40-60 cm. Os teores de C associados às substâncias húmicas foram avaliados na camada de solo de 0-10 cm. O teor e o estoque de C orgânico aumentaram com o acréscimo nas doses de lodo de esgoto aplicadas, até a camada de solo de 0-20 cm. A maior parte (50-66 %) do C associado às substâncias húmicas está presente no solo na forma de humina, seguido por C-fração ácidos fúlvicos e C-fração ácidos húmicos, nesta ordem. A aplicação de lodo de esgoto implica maior acúmulo de substâncias húmicas no solo, mas as proporções de C-humificado da matéria orgânica não são alteradas.