Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
The Role of Catecholamines in Lung Liquid Absorption at Birth

Summary: We have examined the effect on lung liquid secretion of catecholamines infused in chronically catheterized fetal lambs in utero. Isoproterenol and epinephrine inhibited secretion, an effect which increased with gestation and, in fetuses near delivery, caused absorption of lung liquid. In 7 out of 8 experiments nor-epinephrine had no effect on secretion. This pattern of response and the fact that the inhibitory effect could be blocked by propranolol indicate a mode of action involving β-adrenergic receptors.Speculation: The observed effects on lung liquid secretion were achieved with infusion rates of epinephrine which are well within the range for endogenous production by the adrenals in response to splanchnic nerve stimulation or asphyxia. Thus the marked increase in the secretion of epinephrine which occurs during parturition may be an important factor in initiating lung liquid absorption. Permanent inhibition of lung liquid secretion postnatally may be due to greater sensitivity of the pulmonary epithelium to β-adrenergic stimulation and to the higher “resting” output of epinephrine from the adrenals of neonates compared with fetuses.
Localization of endogenous morphine‐like compounds in the mouse spinal cord

Morphine, codeine, morphine‐6‐glucuronide, and morphine‐3‐glucuronide are synthesized de novo in mammalian cells and in the central nervous system. Knowledge on endogenous morphine‐like compound distribution in the adult mouse brain has been recently improved, and new hypotheses have been suggested about the potential implications in brain physiology. Endogenous morphine‐like compounds have been shown to be synthesized in the spinal cord, but their localization is unknown. Here we describe the distribution of endogenous morphine‐like compounds (morphine and/or its glucuronides and/or codeine) in the adult mouse spinal cord using a well‐validated antibody. By using different microscopy approaches, we found the presence of morphine, codeine, or morphine glucuronides in γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐ergic neurons and astrocytes of the spinal cord. Whereas GABAergic neurons containing endogenous morphine‐like compounds were located primarily in the ventral horn, astrocytes that were labeled for morphine‐like compounds were found throughout the gray matter and the white matter. Our study demonstrates the possibility that endogenous morphine‐like compounds in the central nervous system have other functions beyond their analgesic functions. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:1547–1561, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effectiveness of Tocolytic Agents on Prevention of Preterm Delivery, Neonatal Morbidity, and Mortality: Is There a Consensus? A Review of the Literature

Preterm delivery presents the main cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The rate of preterm delivery is 12% to 13% in the United States, of which 29% concerns preterm deliveries before 34 weeks of gestation. Basic parameter of prevention strategy is implementation of tocolytic therapy in cases of threatened preterm labor. Several therapeutic approaches have been proposed, among which betamimetic agonists, calcium channel blockers, magnesium sulfate, oxytocin receptor blockers, nitrates, and prostaglandin inhibitors, whereas new alternatives such as usage of thiocolchicoside have also been reported. This article is one among few that aims to review the comparative effectiveness of various tocolytic agents regarding prevention of preterm delivery, impact on perinatal morbidity and mortality, neonatal health status, and maternal complications. Main conclusions of recent randomized control trials and meta-analyses are summarized to assess about which agents consensus already exists on their effectiveness, which agents should be further studied to achieve conclusions, as well as those that are rather unlikely to have significant tocolytic impact or any other benefit on neonatal outcome. Target Audience Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians Learning Objectives After completing this activity, the learner should be better able to be informed that oral betamimetics may have a positive impact only to postpone preterm delivery for at least 48 hours. However, no significant advantage is indicated on any of the examined parameters of neonatal morbidity and mortality; understand that no significant benefit of calcium channel blockers on neonatal morbidity and mortality parameters may be supported, despite the potential benefit on prolongation interval; be informed that oxytocin receptor antagonists do not present significant tocolytic effect and are not associated with significant improvement of neonatal morbidity and mortality parameters; highlight that there are strong indications that progesterone administration is effective on preventing preterm delivery as well as improving neonatal morbidity and mortality; and be informed that antibiotics may not be suggested as a tocolytic therapy and their usage should rather be restricted in cases with preterm premature rupture of membranes to prevent chorioamnionitis.
An analytical model for predicting airfoil self-noise using wall-pressure statistics

Broadband self-noise or trailing-edge noise is due to the scattering of boundary-layer vortical disturbances into acoustic waves at the trailing edge of an airfoil. As the only airfoil noise contribution in a homogeneous stationary flow, it is a matter of primary interest when addressing the problem of the noise generated by fans, wind turbines and high-lift devices. Simple aeroacoustic prediction tools dedicated to trailing-edge noise, that could be integrated in a design cycle, are a current need for manufacturers. In the context of industrial applications, a minimum degree of relevance is required, but the fine details of the scattering process are not expected to be reproduced exactly. A consistent model only has to provide reliable A-weighted levels, which means a realistic distribution of noise intensity with both frequency and angle of radiation, accurate enough for a definition in terms of decibels. Such tools can be deduced from analytical models and could be used in conjunction with incompressible flow computations, according to the acoustic analogy as stated by Ffowcs Williams & Hawkings (1969). As a result of the scattering of a boundary layer turbulent flow, self noise can be related either to the vortical, hydrodynamic velocity field around the trailing-edge or to the induced hydrodynamic pressure field on the airfoil surface. The first approach, based on the velocity field, is outlined by Ffowcs Williams & Hall (1970) and was applied by Wang & Moin (2000) using large-eddy simulation results as input. The second approach, based on the induced wall pressure, has been developed and applied, for instance by Brooks & Hodgson (1981) and Amiet (1976), but rarely addresses the connection with computational results. It is supported by experimental evidence, as pointed out by Brooks, Marcolini & Pope (1989) and Roger & Moreau (2002). The present work is an extension of Amiet’s original formulation of trailing-edge noise based on fully analytical derivations. A back-scattering, leading edge correction is developed, yielding a modified chordwise distribution of the acoustic sources induced by the scattering mechanism. Furthermore, a three-dimensional extension is provided. The full solution has the advantage of accounting for all the effects of a finite chord length. The study is aimed at predicting airfoil self noise from wall pressure fluctuations computed by incompressible LES. In that sense, the present formulation is an alternative to the one proposed by Ffowcs Williams & Hall (1970), and has the advantage that both the actual chord length and any subsonic motion of the surrounding fluid are accounted for.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Gender, Infection, Lifestyle or What Else?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is characterised by abdominal pain and an erratic bowel habit, which depending on the definition used affects 5–10% of the population. As a typical complex disease, it is likely that the condition will develop when a genetically susceptible individual is exposed to an appropriate environment stimulus. This bio-psycho-social model assumes that there is no one cause of IBS, but rather that it is the product of complex interactions between host and environment. Host factors include gender, age and psychological characteristics, while environmental factors include psychosocial stressors, gastrointestinal infections, antibiotics and food.
Evaluation of physicochemical properties of root-end filling materials using conventional and Micro-CT tests

Abstract Objective To evaluate solubility, dimensional stability, filling ability and volumetric change of root-end filling materials using conventional tests and new Micro-CT-based methods. Material and Methods 7 Results The results suggested correlated or complementary data between the proposed tests. At 7 days, BIO showed higher solubility and at 30 days, showed higher volumetric change in comparison with MTA (p<0.05). With regard to volumetric change, the tested materials were similar (p>0.05) at 7 days. At 30 days, they presented similar solubility. BIO and MTA showed higher dimensional stability than ZOE (p<0.05). ZOE and BIO showed higher filling ability (p<0.05). Conclusions ZOE presented a higher dimensional change, and BIO had greater solubility after 7 days. BIO presented filling ability and dimensional stability, but greater volumetric change than MTA after 30 days. Micro-CT can provide important data on the physicochemical properties of materials complementing conventional tests.
Oncostatin M deficiency leads to thymic hypoplasia, accumulation of apoptotic thymocytes and glomerulonephritis

Oncostatin M (OSM) has been implicated in immune regulation, though its precise role remains elusive. Here we show that OSM plays a crucial role in the prevention of autoimmune diseases. OSM‐deficient mice showed normal development of T cells, B cells and DC; however, their thymus showed hypoplasia and altered medullary structure. Autoantibodies against dsDNA accumulated and glomerulonephritis developed in aged OSM‐deficient mice. Apoptotic cells accumulated in the thymus of OSM‐deficient mice, and the administration of dexamethasone in young OSM‐deficient mice resulted in the massive accumulation of apoptotic thymocytes and production of autoantibodies. These results suggest that OSM plays a key role in the prevention of autoimmune disease by regulating the clearance of apoptotic thymocytes.
Increased expression of heparanase in puromycin aminonucleoside nephrosis.

BACKGROUND The beta-D-endoglycosidase heparanase has been proposed as an important contributor to loss of glomerular charge in proteinuria. Expression of heparanase was, therefore, determined in acute puromycin aminonucleoside (PAN) nephrosis. METHODS A rabbit polyclonal antibody was produced against a 17-amino acid peptide derived from the predicted amino acid sequence of heparanase. The antibody was validated by Western blot. Immunohistochemical staining and Western blotting were used to localize heparanase protein in normal kidneys and kidneys from rats with PAN nephrosis. Northern blot analysis was used to determine mRNA expression. RESULTS Immunohistochemical staining showed that heparanase protein was localized to tubular cells in the distal convoluted tubules, thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle, and transitional cell epithelium in normal kidney. Minimal expression was noted in normal glomeruli. Western blot analysis of protein from isolated normal glomeruli showed minimal expression of the 65 kD proheparanase protein. A marked increase in the staining for heparanase was found at day 5 of the PAN nephrosis model, at approximately the time of onset of proteinuria, and at day 14. Expression was predominantly seen in podocytes. At day 5, only the 65 kD proheparanase species was identified, but at day 14, mature 58 kD heparanase also was present. Northern blot analysis of sieved glomeruli at day 14 confirmed an increase in heparanase mRNA. The human podocyte cell line 56/10A1 also produced both proheparanase and mature heparanase, suggesting that podocytes can activate heparanase without other cell types. CONCLUSION The previously mentioned data confirm that the novel beta-D-endoglycosidase heparanase is up-regulated and activated in glomeruli from rats with proteinuria. Heparanase may be involved, therefore, in the loss of glomerular charge seen in proteinuria. Moreover, the presence of heparanase in normal tubules suggests that it may also be involved in cell migration or turnover.
Distribution of triatomine species in domestic and peridomestic environments in central coastal Ecuador

Background Although the central coast of the Ecuador is considered endemic for Chagas disease, few studies have focused on determining the risk of transmission in this region. In this study we describe the triatomine household infestation in Manabí province (Central Coast region), determine the rate of Trypanosoma cruzi infection and study the risk factors associated with infestation by Rhodnius ecuadoriensis. Methodology/Principal findings An entomological survey found three triatomine species (Rhodnius ecuadoriensis, Panstrongylus rufotuberculatus and P. howardi) infesting domiciles in 47.4% of the 78 communities visited (total infestation rate of 4.5%). Four percent of domiciles were infested, and nymphs were observed in 77% of those domiciles. The three species were found in altitudes below 500 masl and in all ecological zones except cloud forest. Within the domicile, we found the three species mostly in bedrooms. Rhodnius ecuadoriensis and P. rufotuberculatus were abundant in bird nests, including chicken coops and P. howardi associated with rats in piles of bricks, in the peridomicile. Triatomine infestation was characterized by high rates of colonization, especially in peridomicile. Flagelates infection was detected in only 12% of the samples by microscopy and Trypanosoma cruzi infection in 42% of the examined triatomines by PCR (n = 372). The most important risk factors for house infestation by R. ecuadoriensis were ecological zone (w = 0.99) and presence of chickens (w = 0.96). Determinants of secondary importance were reporting no insecticide applications over the last twelve months (w = 0.86) and dirt floor (w = 0.70). On the other hand, wood as wall material was a protective factor (w = 0.85). Conclusion/Significance According the results, approximately 571,000 people would be at high risk for T. cruzi infection in Manabí province. A multidisciplinary approximation and the adhesion to a periodic integrated vector management (IVM) program are essential to guarantee sustainable preventive and control strategies for Chagas disease in this region.
Clinical trial on the cost‐effectiveness of T‐tube use in an established deceased donor liver transplantation program

Abstract: The aim of our study was to assess the advantages and disadvantages of T‐tube use in liver transplantation, with also paying attention to the economic costs derived from its use. Patients were prospectively randomized to T tube or no T tube. One hundred and seven patients, 53 with T tube and 54 without T tube, were analyzed. Minimum follow‐up was three months. Nine patients (8.4%) had bile leak: six in the T‐tube group (11.3%) and three in the group without T tube (5.5%), p = ns. Four patients (3.5%) had anastomotic biliary stenosis: one in the T‐tube group (1.8%) and three in the group without T tube, p = ns. Twenty of the 53 patients (37.7%) with T tube had T‐tube‐related complication. The number of diagnostic and therapeutic resources were higher in the T‐tube group compared with non‐T tube (81 and 17 vs. 18 and 10, respectively, p <0.05). The costs of therapeutic procedures required for the treatment of complications were 28 232 € in the T‐tube group vs. 16 088 € in the no T‐tube group, p <0.05. In conclusion, the systematic use of the T tube in biliary reconstruction in liver transplantation cannot be justified.
Rethinking project reliability using the ambidexterity and mindfulness perspectives

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to bring together two seemingly disparate bodies of literature – ambidexterity (the ability both to exploit and explore) and mindfulness – to take a fresh perspective on the management of uncertainty. The authors differentiate between “rule-based” and “mindfulness-based” reliability and explore project risk responses in environments characterised by varying degrees of uncertainty. Design/methodology/approach Five case organisations across a range of industries are used to illustrate how uncertainty may be prepared for and suitable responses activated. This also adds to the understanding of the nature of ambidexterity, which has previously been characterised primarily at the organisational level with relatively few studies looking at managerial actions and “switches” between modes. The data consist of initial survey responses to indicate the level of mindfulness under conditions of normality, followed by interviews studying particular incidents and the nature of the responses. Findings Key practices are identified that support high reliability in complex projects, with four managerial modes (“Traditional”, “Just-in-time”, “Infusion”, and “Entrepreneurial”) that emerged from the data. Practical implications The findings offer managers a practical framework to choose between different modes of reliable performance by considering the uncertainty of the environment and whether the primary driver of the work is efficiency or effectiveness. This allows managers to reflect on their own organisations and practices and identify whether their current approach is suitable. Originality/value This work offers new insight into risk responses in complex environments and shows how the mindfulness and ambidexterity literatures may be used as beneficial lenses to increase understanding. Blending these two schools also offers opportunities for future research.
Does role stress predict burnout over time among health care professionals?

Abstract The main objective of this study is to test the effects over time of three role stress variables (role conflict, role ambiguity and role overload) on the three burnout dimensions (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and personal accomplishment). Based on theoretical models on burnout and on meta-analytical research, it is hypothesized that the three role stress variables will predict changes over time in emotional exhaustion and depersonalization, but not in personal accomplishment. The results obtained by means of hierarchical regression analysis partially support the hypothesis. The three role stress variables predict emotional exhaustion over time. Role conflict and role overload predict depersonalization over time. Finally, contrary to expectations, role ambiguity predicts personal accomplishment over time.
Coupling effects in volume selective 1H spectroscopy of major brain metabolites

The effect of PRESS and STEAM sequences on the spectra of coupled substances are discussed using the examples of weakly coupled AX and A2X systems. Maximum differences compared to uncoupled spins occur if the RF pulses are applied to antiphase magnetization. In this case, the spin echo of the PRESS experiment shows a modified dependence on the refocusing flip angle, which may lead to an attenuation of the acquired signal. In STEAM spectroscopy the evolution within the middle interval tm is dominated by zero quantum coherences and longitudinal polarization, whose maximum efficiencies are 25 and 12.5%, respectively. Zero quantum coherences may lead to strong modulations when the tm value is varied. The effects on the spectra of important coupled metabolites of the human brain such as glutamate, GABA, inositol, and particularly lactate, are demonstrated. The observed modulations seem to make the quantification of the spectra rather difficult at echo times above 50 ms. © 1991 Academic Press, Inc.
Surface wettability and morphology implications on semi-alicyclic polyimide hemocompatibility

A polyimide was synthesized by solution polycondensation of a dianhydride with alicyclic and biocompatible character and an aromatic diamine containing flexible sequences. The obtained polymer was processed into film form by solution casting method. Contact angle measurements were employed to determine the sample surface wettability, which was analyzed in regard with the interactions that take place at polyimide-blood interface. The latter were assessed from the balance between the forces of adhesion and cohesion of blood components on sample surface. The film morphological features were investigated by atomic force microscopy, revealing a porous surface that is suitable for biomedical purposes as membrane oxygenators or hemodialysis membranes.
Minocycline in the Antibiotic Regimen of Cystic Fibrosis Patients: Weight Gain and Clinical Improvement

Minocycline hydrochloride was given to 100 patients with cystic fibrosis of the pancreas for periods of 3 months over a broad-spectrum antibiotic drug rotation which lasted 2 years. Increased weight gain and some clinical improvement was seen during treatment with minocycline. Those patients with severe disease gained more weight than those with mild or moderate disease, and males gained more than females. When minocycline hydro chloride was not the drug in use, patients lost weight and their health declined.
Evolution of the structure and function of the vertebrate tongue

Studies of the comparative morphology of the tongues of living vertebrates have revealed how variations in the morphology and function of the organ might be related to evolutional events. The tongue, which plays a very important role in food intake by vertebrates, exhibits significant morphological variations that appear to represent adaptation to the current environmental conditions of each respective habitat. This review examines the fundamental importance of morphology in the evolution of the vertebrate tongue, focusing on the origin of the tongue and on the relationship between morphology and environmental conditions. Tongues of various extant vertebrates, including those of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals, were analysed in terms of gross anatomy and microanatomy by light microscopy and by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Comparisons of tongue morphology revealed a relationship between changes in the appearance of the tongue and changes in habitat, from a freshwater environment to a terrestrial environment, as well as a relationship between the extent of keratinization of the lingual epithelium and the transition from a moist or wet environment to a dry environment. The lingual epithelium of amphibians is devoid of keratinization while that of reptilians is keratinized to different extents. Reptiles live in a variety of habitats, from seawater to regions of high temperature and very high or very low humidity. Keratinization of the lingual epithelium is considered to have been acquired concomitantly with the evolution of amniotes. The variations in the extent of keratinization of the lingual epithelium, which is observed between various amniotes, appear to be secondary, reflecting the environmental conditions of different species.