bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High resolution melting analysis for a rapid identification of heterozygous and homozygous sequence changes in the MUTYH gene
Authors: Tricarico Rossella , Crucianelli Francesca , Alvau Antonio , Orlando Claudio , Sestini Roberta , Tonelli Francesco , Valanzano Rosa , Genuardi Maurizio
Published: July 2011

Background

MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP) is an autosomal recessive form of intestinal polyposis predisposing to colorectal carcinoma. High resolution melting analysis (HRMA) is a mutation scanning method that allows detection of heterozygous sequence changes with high sensitivity, whereas homozygosity for a nucleotide change may not lead to significant curve shape or melting temperature changes compared to homozygous wild-type samples. Therefore, HRMA has been mainly applied to the detection of mutations associated with autosomal dominant or X-linked disorders, while applications to autosomal recessive conditions are less common.

Methods

MUTYH coding sequence and UTRs were analyzed by both HRMA and sequencing on 88 leukocyte genomic DNA samples. Twenty-six samples were also examined by SSCP. Experiments were performed both with and without mixing the test samples with wild-type DNA.

Results

The results show that all MUTYH sequence variations, including G > C and A > T homozygous changes, can be reliably identified by HRMA when a condition of artificial heterozygosity is created by mixing test and reference DNA. HRMA had a sensitivity comparable to sequencing and higher than SSCP.

Conclusions

The availability of a rapid and inexpensive method for the identification of MUTYH sequence variants is relevant for the diagnosis of colorectal cancer susceptibility, since the MAP phenotype is highly variable.
Protein-bound polysaccharide from Phellinus linteus inhibits tumor growth, invasion, and angiogenesis and alters Wnt/β-catenin in SW480 human colon cancer cells
Authors: Song Kyoung-Sub , Li Ge , Kim Jong-Seok , Jing Kaipeng , Kim Tae-Dong , Kim Jin-Pyo , Seo Seung-Bo , Yoo Jae-Kuk , Park Hae-Duck , Hwang Byung-Doo , Lim Kyu , Yoon Wan-Hee
Published: July 2011

Background

Polysaccharides extracted from the Phellinus linteus (PL) mushroom are known to possess anti-tumor effects. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the anti-tumor properties of PL remain to be explored. Experiments were carried out to unravel the anticancer effects of PL.

Methods

The anti-cancer effects of PL were examined in SW480 colon cancer cells by evaluating cell proliferation, invasion and matrix metallo-proteinase (MMP) activity. The anti-angiogenic effects of PL were examined by assessing human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) proliferation and capillary tube formation. The in vivo effect of PL was evaluated in an athymic nude mouse SW480 tumor engraft model.

Results

PL (125-1000 μg/mL) significantly inhibited cell proliferation and decreased β-catenin expression in SW480 cells. Expression of cyclin D1, one of the downstream-regulated genes of β-catenin, and T-cell factor/lymphocyte enhancer binding factor (TCF/LEF) transcription activity were also significantly reduced by PL treatment. PL inhibited in vitro invasion and motility as well as the activity of MMP-9. In addition, PL treatment inhibited HUVEC proliferation and capillary tube formation. Tumor growth of SW480 cells implanted into nude mice was significantly decreased as a consequence of PL treatment, and tumor tissues from treated animals showed an increase in the apoptotic index and a decrease in β-catenin expression. Moreover, the proliferation index and microvessel density were significantly decreased.

Conclusions

These data suggest that PL suppresses tumor growth, invasion, and angiogenesis through the inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling in certain colon cancer cells.
Integrated genomics of ovarian xenograft tumor progression and chemotherapy response
Authors: Stuckey Ashley , Fischer Andrew , Miller Daniel H , Hillenmeyer Sara , Kim Kyu K , Ritz Anna , Singh Rakesh K , Raphael Benjamin J , Brard Laurent , Brodsky Alexander S
Published: July 2011

Background

Ovarian cancer is the most deadly gynecological cancer with a very poor prognosis. Xenograft mouse models have proven to be one very useful tool in testing candidate therapeutic agents and gene function in vivo. In this study we identify genes and gene networks important for the efficacy of a pre-clinical anti-tumor therapeutic, MT19c.

Methods

In order to understand how ovarian xenograft tumors may be growing and responding to anti-tumor therapeutics, we used genome-wide mRNA expression and DNA copy number measurements to identify key genes and pathways that may be critical for SKOV-3 xenograft tumor progression. We compared SKOV-3 xenografts treated with the ergocalciferol derived, MT19c, to untreated tumors collected at multiple time points. Cell viability assays were used to test the function of the PPARγ agonist, Rosiglitazone, on SKOV-3 cell growth.

Results

These data indicate that a number of known survival and growth pathways including Notch signaling and general apoptosis factors are differentially expressed in treated vs. untreated xenografts. As tumors grow, cell cycle and DNA replication genes show increased expression, consistent with faster growth. The steroid nuclear receptor, PPARγ, was significantly up-regulated in MT19c treated xenografts. Surprisingly, stimulation of PPARγ with Rosiglitazone reduced the efficacy of MT19c and cisplatin suggesting that PPARγ is regulating a survival pathway in SKOV-3 cells. To identify which genes may be important for tumor growth and treatment response, we observed that MT19c down-regulates some high copy number genes and stimulates expression of some low copy number genes suggesting that these genes are particularly important for SKOV-3 xenograft growth and survival.

Conclusions

We have characterized the time dependent responses of ovarian xenograft tumors to the vitamin D analog, MT19c. Our results suggest that PPARγ promotes survival for some ovarian tumor cells. We propose that a combination of regulated expression and copy number can identify genes that are likely important for chemotherapy response. Our findings suggest a new approach to identify candidate genes that are critical for anti-tumor therapy.
Role of tissue transglutaminase 2 in the acquisition of a mesenchymal-like phenotype in highly invasive A431 tumor cells
Authors: Lin Chun-Yu , Tsai Pei-Hsun , Kandaswami Chithan C , Chang Geen-Dong , Cheng Chia-Hsiung , Huang Chang-Jen , Lee Ping-Ping , Hwang Jiuan-Jiuan , Lee Ming-Ting
Published: July 2011

Background

Cancer progression is closely linked to the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. Studies have shown that there is increased expression of tissue tranglutaminase (TG2) in advanced invasive cancer cells. TG2 catalyzes the covalent cross-linking of proteins, exhibits G protein activity, and has been implicated in the modulation of cell adhesion, migration, invasion and cancer metastasis. This study explores the molecular mechanisms associated with TG2's involvement in the acquisition of the mesenchymal phenotype using the highly invasive A431-III subline and its parental A431-P cells.

Results

The A431-III tumor subline displays increased expression of TG2. This is accompanied by enhanced expression of the mesenchymal phenotype, and this expression is reversed by knockdown of endogenous TG2. Consistent with this, overexpression of TG2 in A431-P cells advanced the EMT process. Furthermore, TG2 induced the PI3K/Akt activation and GSK3β inactivation in A431 tumor cells and this increased Snail and MMP-9 expression resulting in higher cell motility. TG2 also upregulated NF-κB activity, which also enhanced Snail and MMP-9 expression resulting in greater cell motility; interestingly, this was associated with the formation of a TG2/NF-κB complex. TG2 facilitated acquisition of a mesenchymal phenotype, which was reversed by inhibitors of PI3K, GSK3 and NF-κB.

Conclusions

This study reveals that TG2 acts, at least in part, through activation of the PI3K/Akt and NF-κB signaling systems, which then induce the key mediators Snail and MMP-9 that facilitate the attainment of a mesenchymal phenotype. These findings support the possibility that TG2 is a promising target for cancer therapy.
Tip60-mediated acetylation activates transcription independent apoptotic activity of Abl
Authors: Jiang Zhihua , Kamath Ravindra , Jin Shunquian , Balasubramani Manimalha , Pandita Tej K , Rajasekaran Baskaran
Published: July 2011

Background

The proto-oncogene, c-Abl encodes a ubiquitously expressed tyrosine kinase that critically governs the cell death response induced by genotoxic agents such as ionizing radiation and cisplatin. The catalytic function of Abl, which is essential for executing DNA damage response (DDR), is normally tightly regulated but upregulated several folds upon IR exposure due to ATM-mediated phosphorylation on S465. However, the mechanism/s leading to activation of Abl's apoptotic activity is currently unknown.

Results

We investigated the role of acetyl modification in regulating apoptotic activity of Abl and the results showed that DNA strand break-inducing agents, ionizing radiation and bleomycin induced Abl acetylation. Using mass spectrophotometry and site-specific acetyl antibody, we identified Abl K921, located in the DNA binding domain, and conforming to one of the lysine residue in the consensus acetylation motif (K XXK--X3-5--SGS) is acetylated following DNA damage. We further observed that the S465 phosphorylated Abl is acetyl modified during DNA damage. Signifying the modification, cells expressing the non acetylatable K921R mutant displayed attenuated apoptosis compared to wild-type in response to IR or bleomycin treatment. WT-Abl induced apoptosis irrespective of new protein synthesis. Furthermore, upon γ-irradiation K921R-Abl displayed reduced chromatin binding compared to wild type. Finally, loss of Abl K921 acetylation in Tip60-knocked down cells and co-precipitation of Abl with Tip60 in DNA damaged cells identified Tip60 as an Abl acetylase.

Conclusion

Collective data showed that DNA damage-induced K921 Abl acetylation, mediated by Tip60, stimulates transcriptional-independent apoptotic activity and chromatin-associative property thereby defining a new regulatory mechanism governing Abl's DDR function.
Autologous Transplantation of Adipose-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Markedly Reduced Acute Ischemia-Reperfusion Lung Injury in a Rodent Model
Authors: Sun Cheuk-Kwan , Yen Chia-Hung , Lin Yu-Chun , Tsai Tzu-Hsien , Chang Li-Teh , Kao Ying-Hsien , Chua Sarah , Fu Morgan , Ko Sheung-Fat , Leu Steve , Yip Hon-Kan
Published: July 2011

Background

This study tested the hypothesis that autologous transplantation of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) can effectively attenuate acute pulmonary ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury.

Methods

Adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats (n = 24) were equally randomized into group 1 (sham control), group 2 (IR plus culture medium only), and group 3 (IR plus intravenous transplantation of 1.5 × 106 autologous ADMSCs at 1h, 6h, and 24h following IR injury). The duration of ischemia was 30 minutes, followed by 72 hours of reperfusion prior to sacrificing the animals. Blood samples were collected and lungs were harvested for analysis.

Results

Blood gas analysis showed that oxygen saturation (%) was remarkably lower, whereas right ventricular systolic pressure was notably higher in group 2 than in group 3 (all p < 0.03). Histological scoring of lung parenchymal damage was notably higher in group 2 than in group 3 (all p < 0.001). Real time-PCR demonstrated remarkably higher expressions of oxidative stress, as well as inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers in group 2 compared with group 3 (all p < 0.005). Western blot showed that vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1, oxidative stress, tumor necrosis factor-α and nuclear factor-κB were remarkably higher, whereas NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1 and heme oxygenase-1 activities were lower in group 2 compared to those in group 3 (all p < 0.004). Immunofluorescent staining demonstrated notably higher number of CD68+ cells, but significantly fewer CD31+ and vWF+ cells in group 2 than in group 3.

Conclusion

ADMSC therapy minimized lung damage after IR injury in a rodent model through suppressing oxidative stress and inflammatory reaction.
Effect of growth temperature on the morphology and phonon properties of InAs nanowires on Si substrates
Authors: Li Tianfeng , Chen Yonghai , Lei Wen , Zhou Xiaolong , Luo Shuai , Hu Yongzheng , Wang Lijun , Yang Tao , Wang Zhanguo
Published: July 2011

Catalyst-free, vertical array of InAs nanowires (NWs) are grown on Si (111) substrate using MOCVD technique. The as-grown InAs NWs show a zinc-blende crystal structure along a < 111 > direction. It is found that both the density and length of InAs NWs decrease with increasing growth temperatures, while the diameter increases with increasing growth temperature, suggesting that the catalyst-free growth of InAs NWs is governed by the nucleation kinetics. The longitudinal optical and transverse optical (TO) mode of InAs NWs present a phonon frequency slightly lower than those of InAs bulk materials, which are speculated to be caused by the defects in the NWs. A surface optical mode is also observed for the InAs NWs, which shifts to lower wave-numbers when the diameter of NWs is decreased, in agreement with the theory prediction. The carrier concentration is extracted to be 2.25 × 1017 cm-3 from the Raman line shape analysis. A splitting of TO modes is also observed.

PACS: 62.23.Hj; 81.07.Gf; 63.22.Gh; 61.46.Km
Transcriptional responses of the nerve agent-sensitive brain regions amygdala, hippocampus, piriform cortex, septum, and thalamus following exposure to the organophosphonate anticholinesterase sarin
Authors: Spradling Kimberly D , Lumley Lucille A , Robison Christopher L , Meyerhoff James L , Dillman James F
Published: July 2011

Background

Although the acute toxicity of organophosphorus nerve agents is known to result from acetylcholinesterase inhibition, the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of neuropathology following nerve agent-induced seizure are not well understood. To help determine these pathways, we previously used microarray analysis to identify gene expression changes in the rat piriform cortex, a region of the rat brain sensitive to nerve agent exposure, over a 24-h time period following sarin-induced seizure. We found significant differences in gene expression profiles and identified secondary responses that potentially lead to brain injury and cell death. To advance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in sarin-induced toxicity, we analyzed gene expression changes in four other areas of the rat brain known to be affected by nerve agent-induced seizure (amygdala, hippocampus, septum, and thalamus).

Methods

We compared the transcriptional response of these four brain regions to sarin-induced seizure with the response previously characterized in the piriform cortex. In this study, rats were challenged with 1.0 × LD50sarin and subsequently treated with atropine sulfate, 2-pyridine aldoxime methylchloride, and diazepam. The four brain regions were collected at 0.25, 1, 3, 6, and 24 h after seizure onset, and total RNA was processed for microarray analysis.

Results

Principal component analysis identified brain region and time following seizure onset as major sources of variability within the dataset. Analysis of variance identified genes significantly changed following sarin-induced seizure, and gene ontology analysis identified biological pathways, functions, and networks of genes significantly affected by sarin-induced seizure over the 24-h time course. Many of the molecular functions and pathways identified as being most significant across all of the brain regions were indicative of an inflammatory response. There were also a number of molecular responses that were unique for each brain region, with the thalamus having the most distinct response to nerve agent-induced seizure.

Conclusions

Identifying the molecular mechanisms involved in sarin-induced neurotoxicity in these sensitive brain regions will facilitate the development of novel therapeutics that can potentially provide broad-spectrum protection in five areas of the central nervous system known to be damaged by nerve agent-induced seizure.
The interaction between different types of activated RAW 264.7 cells and macrophage inflammatory protein-1 alpha
Authors: He Zhongshi , Zhang Hui , Yang Chunxu , Zhou Yajuan , Zhou Yong , Han Guang , Xia Ling , Ouyang Wen , Zhou Fuxiang , Zhou Yunfeng , Xie Conghua
Published: July 2011

Background

Two major ways of macrophage (MΦ) activation can occur in radiation-induced pulmonary injury (RPI): classical and alternative MΦ activation, which play important roles in the pathogenesis of RPI. MΦ can produce chemokine MΦ inflammatory protein-1α (MIP-1α), while MIP-1α can recruit MΦ. The difference in the chemotactic ability of MIP-1α toward distinct activated MΦ is unclear. We speculated that there has been important interaction of MIP-1α with different activated MΦ, which might contribute to the pathogenesis of RPI.

Methods

Classically and alternatively activated MΦ were produced by stimulating murine MΦ cell line RAW 264.7 cells with three different stimuli (LPS, IL-4 and IL-13); Then we used recombinant MIP-1α to attract two types of activated MΦ. In addition, we measured the ability of two types of activated MΦ to produce MIP-1α at the protein or mRNA level.

Results

Chemotactic ability of recombinant MIP-1α toward IL-13-treated MΦ was the strongest, was moderate for IL-4-treated MΦ, and was weakest for LPS-stimulated MΦ (p < 0.01). The ability of LPS-stimulated MΦ to secrete MIP-1α was significantly stronger than that of IL-4-treated or IL-13-treated MΦ (p < 0.01). The ability of LPS-stimulated MΦ to express MIP-1α mRNA also was stronger than that of IL-4- or IL-13-stimulated MΦ (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The chemotactic ability of MIP-1α toward alternatively activated MΦ (M2) was significantly greater than that for classically activated MΦ (M1). Meanwhile, both at the mRNA and protein level, the capacity of M1 to produce MIP-1α is better than that of M2. Thus, chemokine MIP-1α may play an important role in modulating the transition from radiation pneumonitis to pulmonary fibrosisin vivo, through the different chemotactic affinity for M1 and M2.
Anti-cancer natural products isolated from chinese medicinal herbs
Authors: Tan Wen , Lu Jinjian , Huang Mingqing , Li Yingbo , Chen Meiwan , Wu Guosheng , Gong Jian , Zhong Zhangfeng , Xu Zengtao , Dang Yuanye , Guo Jiajie , Chen Xiuping , Wang Yitao
Published: July 2011

In recent years, a number of natural products isolated from Chinese herbs have been found to inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis, suppress angiogenesis, retard metastasis and enhance chemotherapy, exhibiting anti-cancer potential both in vitro and in vivo. This article summarizes recent advances in in vitro and in
vivo research on the anti-cancer effects and related mechanisms of some promising natural products. These natural products are also reviewed for their therapeutic potentials, including flavonoids (gambogic acid, curcumin, wogonin and silibinin), alkaloids (berberine), terpenes (artemisinin, β-elemene, oridonin, triptolide, and ursolic acid), quinones (shikonin and emodin) and saponins (ginsenoside Rg3), which are isolated from Chinese medicinal herbs. In particular, the discovery of the new use of artemisinin derivatives as excellent anti-cancer drugs is also reviewed.
Rumination-focused cognitive–behavioural therapy for residual depression: phase II randomised controlled trial
Authors: Watkins Edward R. , Mullan Eugene , Wingrove Janet , Rimes Katharine , Steiner Herbert , Bathurst Neil , Eastman Rachel , Scott Jan
Published: July 2011

Background

About 20% of major depressive episodes become chronic and medication-refractory and also appear to be less responsive to standard cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT).

Aims

To test whether CBT developed from behavioural activation principles that explicitly and exclusively targets depressive rumination enhances treatment as usual (TAU) in reducing residual depression.

Method

Forty-two consecutively recruited participants meeting criteria for medication-refractory residual depression were randomly allocated to TAU v. TAU plus up to 12 sessions of individual rumination-focused CBT. The trial has been registered (ISRCTN22782150).

Results

Adding rumination-focused CBT to TAU significantly improved residual symptoms and remission rates. Treatment effects were mediated by change in rumination.

Conclusions

This is the first randomised controlled trial providing evidence of benefits of rumination-focused CBT in persistent depression. Although suggesting the internal validity of rumination-focused CBT for residual depression, the trial lacked an attentional control group so cannot test whether the effects were as a result of the specific content of rumination-focused CBT v. non-specific therapy effects.
Robust Optimization in Simulation: Taguchi and Krige Combined
Authors: Dellino Gabriella , Kleijnen Jack P. C. , Meloni Carlo
Published: July 2011

Optimization of simulated systems is the goal of many methods, but most methods assume known environments. We, however, develop a “robust” methodology that accounts for uncertain environments. Our methodology uses Taguchi's view of the uncertain world but replaces his statistical techniques by design and analysis of simulation experiments based on Kriging (Gaussian process model); moreover, we use bootstrapping to quantify the variability in the estimated Kriging metamodels. In addition, we combine Kriging with nonlinear programming, and we estimate the Pareto frontier. We illustrate the resulting methodology through economic order quantity (EOQ) inventory models. Our results suggest that robust optimization requires order quantities that differ from the classic EOQ. We also compare our results with results we previously obtained using response surface methodology instead of Kriging.
Admission Proinsulin Is Associated with Mortality in Patients with Admission Hyperglycemia during Acute Coronary Syndrome: Results from a Pilot Observational Study
Authors: Farhan Serdar , Jarai Rudolf , Tentzeris Ioannis , Freynhofer Matthias K , Brozovic Ivan , Vogel Birgit , Kautzky-Willer A , Wascher Thomas , Wojta Johann , Huber Kurt
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND

Acute hyperglycemia (AHG) is associated with mortality in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The extent to which hyperproinsulinemia contributes to worse clinical outcomes for this specific patient population is unknown.

METHODS

We included 308 consecutive ACS patients who underwent coronary angioplasty in this pilot observational study. Patients were separated into 3 groups: patients with proven diabetes mellitus (DM group) (n =55), nondiabetic patients with a normal glucose concentration at admission (NAG group) (n =175), and nondiabetic patients with AHG at presentation (AHG group) (n =78). Blood samples for glucose, insulin, and proinsulin measurements were obtained at admission. The primary end point of the study was all-cause mortality, which was assessed at a mean follow-up of 19 months (interquartile range, 12–28 months).

RESULTS

Patients in the AHG and DM groups had significantly (P =0.048) higher all-cause mortality compared with the NAG group. A univariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the proinsulin concentration was significantly associated with all-cause mortality for all study participants (hazard ratio, 1.013; 95% CI, 1.002–1.024; P =0.023). AHG patients with increased proinsulin concentrations showed a mortality rate similar to that of DM patients but had a significantly higher mortality rate than patients with AHG and a low proinsulin concentration (χ2 =7.57; P =0.006) and patients with NAG (with or without increased proinsulin) [χ2 =7.66 (P =0.006) and 13.98 (P < 0.001), respectively]. A multivariate regression analysis revealed that the concentrations of glucose and proinsulin at admission were significant (P =0.002) predictors of all-cause mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

An increased proinsulin concentration may be a marker for mortality in ACS patients with hyperglycemia at admission and without known diabetes. Further studies are needed to evaluate the role of metabolic parameters such as proinsulin.
Processing and characterization of poly(ethylene oxide)/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Ratna Debdatta
Published: July 2011

In recent years, poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) has gained two very important applications namely: 1) as solid polymer electrolytes for use in battery, supercapacitor and fuel cell, 2) as a crystallizable switching segment for shape memory polymer (SMP) systems. The common problem for all the applications is linked with the poor mechanical properties of PEO. Hence nanoreinforcement of PEO has been investigated to develop PEO based materials suitable for various applications. PEO/clay nanocomposites have been made by using a solution intercalation method or a melt mixing route. The nanocomposites were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and evaluated for their rheological and dynamic mechanical properties, Since PEO is sensitive to thermo-oxidative degradations, the effect of processing temperature on rheological properties was also investigated. The detailed processing and characterization of PEO/clay nanocomposites will be discussed in the present paper.
Genome of non-living cells: trash or recycle?
Authors: Loi Pasqualino , Fulka Josef , Hildebrand Thomas , Ptak Grazyna
Published: July 2011

Reproductive technologies have been often used as a tool in research not strictly connected with developmental biology. In this study, we retrace the experimental routes that have led to the adoption of two reproductive technologies, ICSI and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), as biological assays to probe the ‘functionality’ of the genome from dead cells. The structural peculiarities of the spermatozoa nucleus, namely its lower water content and its compact chromatin structure, have made it the preferred cell for these experiments. The studies, primarily focused on mice, have demonstrated an unexpected stability of the spermatozoa nuclei, which retained the capacity to form pronuclei once injected into the oocytes even after severe denaturing agents like acid treatment and high-temperature exposure. These findings inspired further research culminating in the production of mice after ICSI of lyophilized spermatozoa. The demonstrated non-equivalence between cell vitality and nuclear vitality in spermatozoa prompted analogous studies on somatic cells. Somatic cells were treated with the same physical stress applied to spermatozoa and were injected into enucleated sheep oocytes. Despite the presumptive fragile nuclear structure, nuclei from non-viable cells (heat treated) directed early and post-implantation embryonic development on nuclear transfer, resulting in normal offspring. Recently, lyophilized somatic cells used for nuclear transfer have developed into normal embryos. In summary, ICSI and SCNT have been useful tools to prove that alternative strategies for storing banks of non-viable cells are realistic. Finally, the potential application of freeze-dried spermatozoa and cells is also discussed.
Combined energy production in the North Great Plain Region
Authors: Kulcsár B.
Published: July 2011

As a part of a broad-scale study, this paper examines the current use and utilization potentials of renewable energies in the North Great Plain Region. Due to its structural properties, geographical situation, climate and morphology, the Region sees a most favourable situation in the field of geothermal energy, biomass and solar energy. The analyses having been performed so far support the assumption that agricultural combined energy production has significant potentials in rural development. With the combined exploitation of the renewable energy potential, agriculture in the North Great Plain Region may provide fir the energy demands of its own activities and the local surroundings. Agriculture as the local energy provider may create a new source of incomes in the sector seeing a shortage of financial resources, as well as an opportunity of breakthrough for rural communities.
Basic principles of shape optimization of elastomers
Authors: Mankovits T.
Published: July 2011

This paper deals with the main principles of shape optimization of elastomers. The aim of the research is how to find the right optimizing solutions which can handle rubber components used in vehicle industry. Further on the chosen solution algorithms will be built in the developed finite element code.
Image-based motion planning for two mobile robots in an environment with obstacles by using cellular neural networks
Authors: Ţepelea L. , Gavriluţ I. , Gacsádi A. , Tiponuţ V.
Published: July 2011

The paper presents an image-based algorithm for motion-planning of two mobile robots moving to the same target in an environment with obstacles. Due to parallel computing, the Cellular Neural Networks (CNN) techniques ensure the images processing in real-time and represent an advantageous solution for autonomous mobile robots guidance. The path planning algorithm can be improved increasing the speed of image processing, using advanced type of the CNN implementation and it can be extended for three or more robots.
Dynamical analysis of storage and retrieval machine frames
Authors: Hajdu S. , Kulcsár B.
Published: July 2011

In our paper we introduce the main reasons and necessity of the dynamic analysis of storage and retrieval machine frame structures. The objects of modelling and several simplification conceptions are also analyzed. Finally, we summarize the mathematical tools and methods of modelling, the limits of these methods and the properties of results.
Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of essential oils of Ocimum canum Sims. and Ocimum selloi Benth.
Authors: Nascimento Jeferson C. , Barbosa Luiz C.A. , Paula Vanderlucia F. , David Jorge M. , Fontana Renato , Silva Luiz A.M. , França Robson S.
Published: July 2011

This work describes the chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the volatile oils of Ocimum canum and Ocimum selloi, both occurring in Jequié/BA, northeastern Brazil. The plants were collected in the winter/2005 andsummer/2006, the oils extracted by steam distillation and further analyzed by GC-MS. A total of 30 and 31 compounds was identified from the oils of O. selloi and O. canum, respectively. It was observed that the oil content of O. canum showed variation during the seasons, while the oils of O. selloi did not. Methylchavicol and linalool were the main chemical components found in the aerial parts and leaves of O. canum. This finding permitted to characterize this specimen as a new chemotype of O. canum. Regarding the aerial parts of O. selloi, eugenol, 1,8-cineole, transcaryophyllene and linalool were identified as their major components. All extracted oils from the aerial parts showed biological activity against gram-positive cocci - Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 - but only the O. canum one showed activity against gram-negative bacilli - Escherichia coli ATCC 25922.
Sensitivity of understorey bird species in two different successional stages of the lowland Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: Loures-Ribeiro Alan , Manhães Marco A. , Dias Manoel M.
Published: July 2011

The Atlantic Forest has a high destruction rate and there is little information available on some aspects of the neotropical bird biology. Changes in environment are important factors that affect the resources available to birds. We compared the species sensitivity level of understorey birds in two areas in distinct successional stages (primary and secondary sections). Two 100 ha plots of lowland Atlantic Forest were analysed between August and December 2006. Among 25 bird species recorded, thirteen had lower abundance in secondary forest, two in primary forest, and ten had not clear tendency. According to the criteria used, the percentages for species with low, and medium and high sensitivity to habitat change were 44% and 56%, respectively. The number of species was not associated with the endemism level or foraging strata. Results show the importance of knowing bird species' sensitivity level with regard to habitat modification, and not only forest fragmentation.
Lessons from the epidemiological surveillance program, during the influenza A (H1N1) virus epidemic, in a reference university hospital of Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Moretti Maria Luiza , Sinkoc Verônica , Cardoso Luis Gustavo de Oliveira , Camargo Gema Jesus de , Bachur Luis Felipe , Hofling Christian Cruz , Angerami Rodrigo , Trabasso Plínio , Garcia Márcia Teixeira , Resende Mariângela Ribeiro
Published: July 2011

INTRODUCTION: The case definition of influenza-like illness (ILI) is a powerful epidemiological tool during influenza epidemics. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate the impact of two definitions used as epidemiological tools, in adults and children, during the influenza A H1N1 epidemic. Patients were included if they had upper respiratory samples tested for influenza by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction during two periods, using the ILI definition (coughing + temperature ≤ 38ºC) in period 1, and the definition of severe acute respiratory infection (ARS) (coughing + temperature ≤ 38ºC and dyspnoea) in period 2. RESULTS: The study included 366 adults and 147 children, covering 243 cases of ILI and 270 cases of ARS. Laboratory confirmed cases of influenza were higher in adults (50%) than in children (21.6%) ( p < 0.0001) and influenza infection was more prevalent in the ILI definition (53%) than ARS (24.4%) (p < 0.0001). Adults reported more chills and myalgia than children (p = 0.0001). Oseltamivir was administered in 58% and 46% of adults and children with influenza A H1N1, respectively. The influenza A H1N1 case fatality rate was 7% in adults and 8.3% in children. The mean time from onset of illness until antiviral administration was 4 days. CONCLUSIONS: The modification of ILI to ARS definition resulted in less accuracy in influenza diagnosis and did not improve the appropriate time and use of antiviral medication.
Colecistectomia videolaparoscópica em 960 pacientes idosos
Authors: Loureiro Edson Ricardo , Klein Suellen Christina , Pavan Claudia Cleto , Almeida Lady Dina Lopes Freire , Silva Fernando Henrique Pereira da , Paulo Danilo Nagib Salomão
Published: July 2011

OBJETIVO: Analisar o tempo operatório, a permanência hospitalar, a taxa de conversão, a morbidade e a mortalidade de pacientes idosos submetidos à colecistectomia videolaparoscópica por doença da vesícula biliar. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, realizado no prontuário de 960 pacientes, de ambos os sexos, com idade entre 60 e 97 anos no período de janeiro de 1993 a agosto de 2009. RESULTADOS: O tempo operatório variou de nove a 180 minutos. O tempo de internação variou de 24 a 120 horas. A conversão ocorreu em 28 pacientes (2,92%), dos quais 67,9% eram mulheres e 28,6% homens tendo sido em 11 casos (39,3%) realizada minilaparotomia e em 17 (60,7%) a via aberta convencional. As intercorrências no transoperatório foram duas rupturas da vesícula biliar, uma falha no pneumoperitônio e uma na clipagem do ducto cístico. No pós-operatório observaram-se cinco hérnias umbilicais incisionais. As complicações sistêmicas foram: nove arritmias cardíacas, uma icterícia pós-operatória, um infarto agudo do miocárdio e um infarto enteromesentérico. Mortalidade ocorreu em três pacientes (0,3%), um por infarto agudo do miocárdio no transoperatório, uma sepse e um infarto enteromesentérico. CONCLUSÃO: Os pacientes idosos submetidos à colecistectomia videolaparoscópica apresentaram baixo tempo de internação hospitalar e baixa morbimortalidade. O tempo operatório e o de internação hospitalar foram curtos, demonstrando que a colecistectomia videolaparoscópica é procedimento seguro e eficaz nos idosos.
Derivação gástrica em Y-de-Roux e a atividade inflamatória do tecido adiposo
Authors: Valezi Antonio Carlos , Cabrera Edilson João , Delfino Vinicius Daher Alvares , Barbosa Decio Sabbatini , Mali Junior Jorge , Menezes Mariano de Almeida
Published: July 2011

OBJETIVO: Avaliar os indicadores de estresse oxidativo e marcadores inflamatórios em obesos antes e depois da gastroplastia vertical com bandagem em Y-de-Roux. MÉTODOS: Vinte obesos classe III foram submetidos à gastroplastia vertical com bandagem em Y-de-Roux, sendo sete homens e 13 mulheres, com idade média de 39 anos e 20 indivíduos não obesos, nove homens e 11 mulheres, média de idade de 38 anos. Foram determinados os níveis de malondialdeído no plasma, índice de estresse, capacidade antioxidante total, catalase e glutationa reduzida e oxidada, e marcadores inflamatórios (proteína C reativa e á-1 glicoproteína ácida). No grupo obeso, estes parâmetros foram determinados antes e 2, 6 e 12 meses após a gastroplastia vertical com bandagem em Y-de-Roux. RESULTADOS: No pré-operatório, o grupo obeso apresentou níveis elevados de marcadores inflamatórios, de estresse oxidativo (níveis de malondialdeído e índice de estresse) e menores níveis de indicadores de defesa antioxidante em relação ao grupo controle. O emagrecimento foi acompanhado de redução progressiva do níveis de malondialdeído e do índice de estresse. Foi observado aumento da concentração de glutationa reduzida e da capacidade antioxidante total e redução dos níveis de marcadores inflamatórios. CONCLUSÃO: A redução do peso melhora o estado inflamatório e os níveis de estresse oxidativo.
Estudo bioquímico do glicosaminoglicano dermatam sulfato em homens adultos portadores de hérnia inguinal tipo II de Nyhus
Authors: Silva Evandro de Moraes e , Lopes Filho Gaspar de Jesus , Nader Helena Bonciani , Gonçalves Rogério de Oliveira , Kobayashi Elza Yoko , Dreyfuss Juliana Luporini
Published: July 2011

OBJETIVO: Comparar a quantidade do glicosaminoglicano dermatam sulfato entre pacientes homens, portadores de hérnia inguinal tipo II de Nyhus e, indivíduos sem hérnia inguinal, com idade entre 20 e 40 anos. MÉTODOS: Foram constituídos dois grupos. Um de 15 pacientes do sexo masculino com hérnia inguinal tipo II de Nyhus e idade entre 20 e 40 anos, com risco ASA I e II, e um grupo controle com dez indivíduos, também do sexo masculino entre 20 e 40 anos, que morreram em período de até 24 h. Foram excluídos os pacientes do sexo feminino, diabéticos, portadores de doença do tecido conjuntivo, tabagistas e com risco cirúrgico ASA III e IV. Foi retirada uma amostra de 1cm² da fáscia transversal na parte intermediária do trígono inguinal, e 1cm² na bainha anterior do músculo reto abdominal na região inguinal correspondente e quantificados os glicosaminoglicanos dermatam sulfato por densitometria, após eletroforese em gel de agarose. RESULTADOS: A quantidade de dermatam sulfato não apresentou diferença estatisticamente significante entre os pacientes com hérnia inguinal e os indivíduos sem hérnia inguinal, tanto na fáscia transversal (p=0,108) quanto na bainha anterior do músculo reto abdominal (p=0,292). CONCLUSÃO: Não se encontrou diferença na quantidade do glicosaminoglicano dermatam sulfato entre os pacientes portadores de hérnia inguinal tipo II de Nyhus e indivíduos sem hérnia inguinal em homens adultos.
Protocolo eletrônico de fisioterapia respiratória em pacientes com escoliose idiopática do adolescente
Authors: Cano Danila Vieira Baldini , Malafaia Osvaldo , Alves Vera Lúcia dos Santos , Avanzi Osmar , Pinto José Simão de Paula
Published: July 2011

OBJETIVO: Criar uma base de dados clínicos da função respiratória em pacientes com escoliose idiopática do adolescente; informatizar e armazenar estes dados clínicos através da utilização de um software; incorporar este protocolo eletrônico ao SINPE© (Sistema Integrado de Protocolos Eletrônicos) e analisar um projeto piloto com interpretação dos resultados. MÉTODOS: A partir da revisão da literatura foi criado o banco de dados informatizado de dados clínicos dos desvios posturais (protocolo mestre). Mediante a realização do protocolo mestre foi criado o protocolo específico da função respiratória de pacientes com escoliose idiopática do adolescente e realizado um projeto piloto com a coleta e análise de dados de dez pacientes. RESULTADOS: Foi possível criar o protocolo mestre dos desvios posturais e o protocolo específico da função respiratória de pacientes com escoliose idiopática do adolescente. Os dados coletados no projeto piloto foram processados pelo SINPE Analisador© gerando gráficos e estatísticas das informações coletadas. CONCLUSÃO: A criação da base de dados clínicos de escoliose idiopática do adolescente foi possível. A informatização e o armazenamento de dados clínicos utilizando o software foram viáveis. O protocolo eletrônico de escoliose idiopática do adolescente pôde ser incorporado ao SINPE© e sua utilização no projeto piloto foi realizada com sucesso.
Estudo morfométrico da divisão arterial do baço comparado ao estudo radiológico
Authors: Silva Liana Ferreira Alencar , Silveira Lívia Mara Almeida , Timbó Paula Sátiro , Pinheiro Sanna Roque , Barros Larissa Vasconcelos , Silva Filho Antonio Ribeiro da
Published: July 2011

OBJETIVO: Estudar a distribuição dos ramos da artéria esplênica dirigidos ao baço aplicado ao estudo radiológico da sua distribuição intraparenquimatosa, visando à utilização destes conhecimentos na esplenectomia parcial. MÉTODOS: no estudo macroscópico, foram utilizados 60 baços humanos dos quais as artérias esplênicas foram dissecadas desde sua origem para visualizar a divisão terminal e os ramos dirigidos ao baço. Realizaram-se as medidas da distância entre a face visceral do baço e a divisão terminal da artéria esplênica e da emergência dos ramos polares. No estudo radiológico, utilizaram-se 30 baços humanos nos quais se injetou contraste nas artérias esplênicas para realizar as arteriografias e estudar a divisão terminal e ramos polares. RESULTADOS: 93,34% dos baços apresentaram bifurcação como padrão de divisão terminal e 6,66% trifurcação. Identificaram-se ramos colaterais secundários e terciários tendo como freqüência relativa de 10% para o tipo I, 17% para o tipo II e 8,33% para ambas. A distância entre a face visceral do baço e a divisão terminal foi, em média, 2,89cm e para a emergência da artéria polar tipo I foi 4,85cm e 2,39cm para a tipo II. Nas 30 arteriografias realizadas, fez-se um estudo da divisão terminal no qual se observou bifurcação em 90% dos baços e trifurcação em 10%, além da presença de artéria polar tipo I em 16% e tipo II em 20%. CONCLUSÃO: a artéria esplênica apresenta divisão terminal do tipo bifurcação que pode ser visualizada arteriograficamente. Destaca-se a existência de segmentação arterial independente na quase totalidade dos casos (98%), semelhantes nas faces visceral e diafragmática do baço. A esplenectomia parcial é anatômica e torna-se factível o emprego de métodos radiológicos no tratamento conservador das lesões esplênicas.
Papel atual dos métodos de imagem no diagnóstico das neoplasias císticas e sólidas do pâncreas: 2ªparte
Authors: Ardengh José Celso , Goldman Suzan Menasce , Lima-Filho Éder Rios de
Published: July 2011

Os autores fazem uma revisão considerando o valor da colangiopancreatografia endoscópica retrógrada, da ultrassonografia, da tomografia computadorizada, da ressonância magnética e da ecoendoscopia para o diagnóstico das neoplasias císticas e sólidas do pâncreas, demonstrando que cada um deles tem grande importância para aumentar, de forma inconteste, a acurácia diagnóstica das doenças do sistema biliopancreático. determinando qual o melhor método para cada um dos diversos tumores.
Uso de plasma autólogo em dermolipectomia abdominal: nota prévia
Authors: Schettino Angélica Maria , Oliveira Diogo Franco Vieira de , Franco Talita Romero
Published: July 2011

O plasma autólogo começou a ser estudado na década de 90, principalmente por suas propriedades adesivas, de angiogênese e pela presença de fatores de crescimento de origem plaquetária. Na verdade, o plasma pode ser isolado de modo autólogo, a partir do sangue do próprio paciente e obtido nas suas duas porções: uma com alta concentração de plaquetas (plasma rico em plaquetas- PRP) e outra com concentração baixa de plaquetas (plasma pobre em plaquetas- PPP). O presente estudo está em desenvolvimento no Hospital Universitário Clementino Fraga Filho, da Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (HUCFF-UFRJ) e no Hospital Naval Marcílio Dias (HNMD), ambos no Rio de Janeiro. O objetivo é avaliar as propriedades do plasma pobre em plaquetas, principalmente a sua ação adesiva, em pacientes com indicação de dermolipectomia abdominal reparadora, de modo a reduzir as coleções no pós operatório, como hematoma e seroma, duas das principais complicações nesse tipo de cirurgia.
Cistatina C sérica: uma alternativa prática para avaliação de função renal?
Authors: Gabriel Ivana Cláudia , Nishida Sonia Kiyomi , Kirsztajn Gianna Mastroianni
Published: July 2011

A taxa de filtração glomerular é o principal indicador de função renal em indivíduos saudáveis e doentes. Apesar de todo o desenvolvimento da medicina em nossos dias, ainda há dificuldade para definir-se essa taxa com precisão na prática diária. Marcadores precoces de lesão renal são importantes, porque a taxa de filtração glomerular se reduz antes do aparecimento dos sintomas ou sinais de insuficiência renal. A cistatina C tem sido apontada como uma alternativa, mas ainda não foi testada em muitas condições. Vantagens e desvantagens desse marcador foram aqui discutidas. Embora a determinação sérica da cistatina C comece a ser usada na prática clínica em todo o mundo, ainda não foram completamente esclarecidas suas limitações ou as situações em que está de fato indicada sua aplicação; por outro lado, a creatinina sérica (e sua depuração) é um marcador laboratorial facilmente acessível, de baixo custo, cujas limitações são bem conhecidas, que pode ser usado de forma rotineira para avaliação de função renal.
Alterações dermatológicas nos pacientes em hemodiálise e em transplantados
Authors: Gerhardt Clarissa Morais Busatto , Gussão Bruna Calvi , Matos Jorge Paulo Strogoff de , Lugon Jocemir Ronaldo , Pinto Jane Marcy Neffá
Published: July 2011

Na atualidade, o mundo está enfrentando uma epidemia de doença renal crônica (DRC). Bases de dados contendo informações sobre os pacientes no estágio terminal da doença renal (DRCt), especialmente nos Estados Unidos, foram as fontes das primeiras informações a respeito deste assunto. O Brasil possui a terceira maior população em diálise no mundo, e atualmente existem cerca de 680 centros de diálise, distribuídos por todas as unidades da federação, atendendo uma população estimada em quase 90.000 pacientes. O envolvimento cutâneo na insuficiência renal crônica é caracterizado por uma diversidade de manifestações, as quais podem ser relacionadas a três processos: à doença renal primária; ao estado urêmico ou a medidas terapêuticas empregadas no seu manuseio. As alterações dermatológicas nessas duas classes de pacientes, dialisados e transplantados, já foram motivo de diversos estudos. Nos últimos anos, entretanto, grandes progressos foram alcançados nestas duas modalidades terapêuticas, os quais podem ter modificado tanto o tipo de alteração dermatológica associada a estas duas condições, quanto a sua intensidade ou frequência. Este artigo tem como objetivo oferecer uma atualização sobre o tema dermatoses em hemodialisados e transplantados.