bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise motivation, self-efficacy, and enjoyment as indicators of adult exercise behavior among the transtheoretical model stages
Authors: Kuroda Yasufumi , Sato Yasuto , Ishizaka Yuko , Yamakado Minoru , Yamaguchi Naohito
Published: February 2012

To better understand the role of motivation in determining exercise participation at the population level, we performed a questionnaire survey of 385 Japanese adults (mean age: 55.0 years, SD: 10.9 years). At baseline, the motivation subscales (intrinsic motivation, identified regulation, and external regulation), self-efficacy, and enjoyment all showed significant differences across the stages of change for exercise. Intrinsic motivation and enjoyment had similar findings, with the highest scores being noted in the maintenance stage. Among the 385 subjects, 183 completed the follow-up questionnaire 3 months later. After 3 months, most of the participants (86.9%) who were in the maintenance stage at baseline remained in the same stage. The number of participants who dropped to a lower stage after 3 months was 23. The changes of exercise stage over the 3-month period differed significantly for identified regulation, introjected regulation, and motivation. There were significant time and group interactions for intrinsic motivation and identified regulation. These findings suggest the importance of intrinsic motivation and identified regulation for performance of regular exercise, as well as the role of introjected regulation for promoting behavioral change among Japanese adults.
Risperidone-induced acromegaly: a case report
Authors: Koroglu Ayşe , Hocaoglu Cicek
Published: February 2012

Today, considering their adverse side effects, the first-generation antipsychotics have been replaced by the new-generation antipsychotics (also known as second-generation antipsychotic agents). The superiority of new-generation antipsychotics compared with first-generation antipsychotic agents in terms of side effects, especially movement disorders, are acknowledged by clinicians. But in recent years during the use of second-generation antipsychotic agents, endocrine side effects have been noteworthy. In our study with a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia treated with risperidone for 14 years and operated with the diagnosis of pituitary macroadenoma, a 32-year-old female patient is presented in the light of the literature examining the framework of the history of disease.
Transporters in human platelets: physiologic function and impact for pharmacotherapy
Authors: Jedlitschky Gabriele , Greinacher Andreas , Kroemer Heyo K.
Published: February 2012

Platelets store signaling molecules (eg, serotonin and ADP) within their granules. Transporters mediate accumulation of these molecules in platelet granules and, on platelet activation, their translocation across the plasma membrane. The balance between transporter-mediated uptake and elimination of signaling molecules and drugs in platelets determines their intracellular concentrations and effects. Several members of the 2 major transporter families, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters and solute carriers (SLCs), have been identified in platelets. An example of an ABC transporter is MRP4 (ABCC4), which facilitates ADP accumulation in dense granules. MRP4 is a versatile transporter, and various additional functions have been proposed, notably lipid mediator release and a role in aspirin resistance. Several other ABC proteins have been detected in platelets with functions in glutathione and lipid homeostasis. The serotonin transporter (SERT, SLC6A4) in the platelet plasma membrane represents a well-characterized example of the SLC family. Moreover, recent experiments indicate expression of OATP2B1 (SLCO2B1), a high affinity transporter for certain statins, in platelets. Changes in transporter localization and expression can affect platelet function and drug sensitivity. This review summarizes available data on the physiologic and pharmacologic role of transporters in platelets.
Association between polymorphisms in XRCC1 gene and clinical outcomes of patients with lung cancer: a meta-analysis
Authors: Cui Zhigang , Yin Zhihua , Li Xuelian , Wu Wei , Guan Peng , Zhou Baosen
Published: February 2012

Background

X-ray repair cross-complementing group 1 (XRCC1) protein plays an important role in the repair of DNA damage and adducts. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) ofXRCC1are suspected to have some relationship with response to chemotherapy and overall survival of lung cancer. This meta-analysis aimed to summarize published data on the association between the commonest SNPs ofXRCC1(Arg194Trp, C > T, rs1799782 and Arg399Gln, G > A, rs25487) and clinical outcome of lung cancer patients.

Methods

We retrieved the relevant articles from PubMed, EMBASE and the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases. Studies were selected using specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Primary outcomes included objective response (i.e., complete response + partial response vs. progressive disease + stable disease) and overall survival (OS). Odds ratio (OR) or hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were estimated. All analyses were performed using the Stata software.

Results

Twenty-two articles were included in the present analysis.XRCC1Arg194Trp and Arg399Gln polymorphisms were significantly associated with response to treatment in lung cancer patients. Patients with C/T genotype, T/T genotype and minor variant T allele at Arg194Trp were more likely to respond to platinum-based chemotherapy compared with those with C/C genotype (C/T vs. C/C: OR, 2.54; 95%CI, 1.95-3.31; T/T vs. C/C: OR, 2.06; 95%CI, 1.39-3.06; C/T+T/T vs. C/C: OR, 2.42; 95% CI, 1.88-3.10). ForXRCC1Arg399Gln, G/A genotype, A/A genotype and minor variant A allele were associated with objective response in all patients (G/A vs. G/G: OR, 0.67; 95%CI, 0.50-0.90; A/A vs. G/G: OR, 0.43; 95%CI, 0.25-0.73; A/A+G/A vs. G/G: OR, 0.63; 95%CI, 0.49-0.83). Both G/A and A/A genotypes ofXRCC1Arg399Gln could influence overall survival of lung cancer patients (G/A vs. G/G: HR, 1.23; 95%CI, 1.06-1.44; A/A vs. G/G: HR, 2.03; 95%CI, 1.20-3.45). Interaction analysis suggested that compared with the patients carrying C/T+T/T genotype atXRCC1194 and G/G genotype atXRCC1399, the patients carrying 194 C/C and 399 G/A+A/A or 194 C/C and 399 G/G genotype showed much worse objective response.

Conclusions

Genetic polymorphisms inXRCC1gene might be associated with overall survival and response to platinum-based chemotherapy in lung cancer patients.
First time molecular detection and phylogenetic relationships of torque teno sus virus 1 and 2 in domestic pigs in Uganda: further evidence for a global distribution
Authors: Brink Matilda , Ståhl Karl , Masembe Charles , Okurut Ademun Rose , Berg Mikael , Blomström Anne-Lie
Published: February 2012

Background

Torque teno sus virus 1 (TTSuV1) and 2 (TTSuV2) are small, single-stranded circular DNA viruses belonging to the Anelloviridae family. Available studies clearly show that both viruses are widely distributed in the pig populations in America, Europe and Asia, although the impact of the infection is still unclear. Currently, the situation in domestic pig populations on the African continent is not known. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the possible presence of the two viruses in domestic pigs in Uganda, and describe the phylogenetic relationships to those in the rest of the world.

Results

Ninety-five serum samples from six districts in Uganda were used, and PCR using TTSuV1 and 2 specific primers for the UTR region was run for viral nucleic acid detection. The positive samples were sequenced, and phylogenetic analyses performed in order to compare the Ugandan sequences with sequences from other parts of the world. The prevalence of TTSuV1 and 2 in the selected domestic pigs were estimated at 16.8% and 48.4% respectively, with co-infection found in 13.7%. The sequence identity was 90-100% between the Ugandan TTSuV1; and 63-100% between the Ugandan TTSuV2 sequences.

Conclusion

This is the first report on the presence of TTSuV1 and 2 in domestic pigs in Uganda. These results highlight the importance of screening for emerging viruses given the globalisation of human activities.
RNA interference targeting virion core protein ORF095 inhibits Goatpox virus replication in Vero cells
Authors: Zhao Zhixun , Wu Guohua , Zhu Xueliang , Yan Xinmin , Dou Yongxi , Li Jian , Zhu Haixia , Zhang Qiang , Cai Xuepeng
Published: February 2012

Background

Goatpox is an economically important disease in goat and sheep-producing areas of the world. Many vaccine strategies developed to control the disease are not yet completely successful. Hairpin expression vectors have been used to induce gene silencing in a large number of studies on viruses. However, none of these studies has been attempted to study GTPV. In the interest of exploiting improved methods to control goat pox, it is participated that RNAi may provide effective protection against GTPV. In this study we show the suppression of Goatpox virus (GTPV) replication via knockdown of virion core protein using RNA interference.

Results

Four short interfering RNA (siRNA) sequences (siRNA-61, siRNA-70, siRNA-165 and siRNA-296) against a region of GTPV ORF095 were selected. Sense and antisense siRNA-encoding sequences separated by a hairpin loop sequence were designed as short hairpin RNA (shRNA) expression cassettes under the control of a human U6 promoter. ORF095 amplicon was generated using PCR, and then cloned into pEGFP-N1 vector, named as p095/EGFP. p095/EGFP and each of the siRNA expression cassettes (p61, p70, p165 and p296) were co-transfected into BHK-21 cells. Fluorescence detection, flow cytometric analysis, retro transcription PCR (RT-PCR) and real time PCR were used to check the efficiency of RNAi. The results showed that the ORF095-specific siRNA-70 effectively down-regulated the expression of ORF095. When Vero cells were transfected with shRNA expression vectors (p61/GFP, p70/GFP, p165/GFP and p296/GFP) and then infected with GTPV, GTPV-ORF095-70 was found to be the most effective inhibition site in decreasing cytopathic effect (CPE) induced by GTPV. The results presented here indicated that DNA-based siRNA could effectively inhibit the replication of GTPV (approximately 463. 5-fold reduction of viral titers) on Vero cells.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that vector-based shRNA methodology can effectively inhibit GTPV replication on Vero cells. Simultaneously, this work represents a strategy for controlling goatpox, potentially facilitating new experimental approaches in the analysis of both viral and cellular gene functions during of GTPV infection.
Ruminal microbe of biohydrogenation of trans-vaccenic acid to stearic acid in vitro
Authors: Li Dan , Wang Jia Qi , Bu Deng Pan
Published: February 2012

Background

Optimization of the unsaturated fatty acid composition of ruminant milk and meat is desirable. Alteration of the milk and fatty acid profile was previously attempted by the management of ruminal microbial biohydrogenation. The aim of this study was to identify the group of ruminal trans-vaccenic acid (trans-11 C18:1, t-VA) hydrogenating bacteria by combining enrichment studies in vitro.

Methods

The enrichment culture growing on t-VA was obtained by successive transfers in medium containing t-VA. Fatty acids were detected by gas chromatograph and changes in the microbial composition during enrichment were analyzed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). Prominent DGGE bands of the enrichment cultures were identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

The growth of ruminal t-VA hydrogenating bacteria was monitored through the process of culture transfer according to the accumulation of stearic acid (C18:0, SA) and ratio of the substrate (t-VA) transformed to the product (SA). A significant part of the retrieved 16S rRNA gene sequences was most similar to those of uncultured bacteria. Bacteria corresponding to predominant DGGE bands in t-VA enrichment cultures clustered with t-VA biohydrogenated bacteria within Group B.

Conclusions

This study provides more insight into the pathway of biohydrogenation. It also may be important to control the production of t-VA, which has metabolic and physiological benefits, through management of ruminal biohydrogenation bacterium.
Anti-citrullinated fibronectin antibodies in rheumatoid arthritis are associated with human leukocyte antigen-DRB1shared epitope alleles
Authors: van Beers Joyce JBC , Willemze Annemiek , Stammen-Vogelzangs Judith , Drijfhout Jan W , Toes René EM , M Pruijn Ger J
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Fibronectin is one of the most abundant proteins present in the inflamed joint. Here, we characterized the citrullination of fibronectin in the joints of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and studied the prevalence, epitope specificity and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) association of autoantibodies against citrullinated fibronectin in RA.

Methods

Citrullinated residues in fibronectin isolated from RA patient synovial fluid were identified by mass spectrometry. The corresponding citrullinated and non-citrullinated peptides were synthesized and used to analyze the presence of autoantibodies to these peptides in RA sera and sera from other diseases and healthy controls by ELISA. The data were compared with risk factors like shared epitope HLA alleles and smoking, and with clinical features.

Results

Five citrullinated residues were identified in fibronectin from RA synovial fluid. RA sera reacted in a citrulline-dependent manner with two out of four citrullinated fibronectin peptides, one of which contains two adjacent citrulline residues, in contrast to non-RA sera, which were not reactive. The most frequently recognized peptide (FN-Cit1035,1036, LTVGLTXXGQPRQY, in which × represents citrulline) was primarily targeted by anti-CCP (cyclic citrullinated peptide) 2-positive RA patients. Anti-FN-Cit1035,1036 autoantibodies were detected in 50% of established anti-CCP2-positive RA patients and in 45% of such patients from a early arthritis clinic. These antibodies appeared to be predominantly of the immunoglobulin G (IgG) isotype and to be associated with HLA shared epitope alleles (odds ratio = 2.11).

Conclusions

Fibronectin in the inflamed synovia of RA patients can be citrullinated at least at five positions. Together with the flanking amino acids, three of these citrullinated residues comprise two epitopes recognized by RA autoantibodies. Anti-citrullinated fibronectin peptide antibodies are associated with HLA shared epitope alleles.
Early recognition of the 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) pneumonia by chest ultrasound
Authors: Testa Americo , Soldati Gino , Copetti Roberto , Giannuzzi Rosangela , Portale Grazia , Gentiloni-Silveri Nicolò
Published: February 2012

Introduction

The clinical picture of the pandemic influenza A (H1N1)v ranges from a self-limiting afebrile infection to a rapidly progressive pneumonia. Prompt diagnosis and well-timed treatment are recommended. Chest radiography (CRx) often fails to detect the early interstitial stage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of bedside chest ultrasonography (US) in the early management of the 2009 influenza A (H1N1)v infection.

Methods

98 patients who arrived in the Emergency Department complaining of influenza-like symptoms were enrolled in the study. Patients not displaying symptoms of acute respiratory distress were discharged without further investigations. Among patients with clinical suggestion of a community-acquired pneumonia, cases encountering other diagnoses or comorbidities were excluded from the study. Clinical history, laboratory tests, CRx, and computed tomography (CT) scan, if indicated, contributed to define the diagnosis of pneumonia in the remaining patients. Chest US was performed by an emergency physician, looking for presence of interstitial syndrome, alveolar consolidation, pleural line abnormalities, and pleural effusion, in 34 patients with a final diagnosis of pneumonia, in 16 having normal initial CRx, and in 33 without pneumonia, as controls.

Results

Chest US was carried out without discomfort in all subjects, requiring a relatively short time (9 minutes; range, 7 to 13 minutes). An abnormal US pattern was detected in 32 of 34 patients with pneumonia (94.1%). A prevalent US pattern of interstitial syndrome was depicted in 15 of 16 patients with normal initial CRx, of whom 10 (62.5%) had a final diagnosis of viral (H1N1) pneumonia. Patients with pneumonia and abnormal initial CRx, of whom only four had a final diagnosis of viral (H1N1) pneumonia (22.2%; P < 0.05), mainly displayed an US pattern of alveolar consolidation. Finally, a positive US pattern of interstitial syndrome was found in five of 33 controls (15.1%). False negatives were found in two (5.9%) of 34 cases, and false positives, in five (15.1%) of 33 cases, with sensitivity of 94.1%, specificity of 84.8%, positive predictive value of 86.5%, and negative predictive value of 93.3%.

Conclusions

Bedside chest US represents an effective tool for diagnosing pneumonia in the Emergency Department. It can accurately provide early-stage detection of patients with (H1N1)v pneumonia having an initial normal CRx. Its routine integration into their clinical management is proposed.
A placebo-controlled, double-blind, dose-escalation study to assess the safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics of single and multiple intravenous infusions of AZD9773 in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock
Authors: Morris Peter E , Zeno Brian , Bernard Andrew C , Huang Xiangning , Das Shampa , Edeki Timi , Simonson Steven G , Bernard Gordon R
Published: February 2012

Introduction

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), an early mediator in the systemic inflammatory response to infection, is a potential therapeutic target in sepsis. The primary objective of this study was to determine the safety and tolerability of AZD9773, an ovine, polyclonal, anti-human TNF-α Fab preparation, in patients with severe sepsis. Secondary outcomes related to pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic (PD) parameters.

Methods

In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter Phase IIa study, patients were sequentially enrolled into five escalating-dose cohorts (single doses of 50 or 250 units/kg; multiple doses of 250 units/kg loading and 50 units/kg maintenance, 500 units/kg loading and 100 units/kg maintenance, or 750 units/kg loading and 250 units/kg maintenance). In each cohort, patients were randomized 2:1 to receive AZD9773 or placebo.

Results

Seventy patients received AZD9773 (n = 47) or placebo (n = 23). Baseline characteristics were similar across cohorts. Mean baseline APACHE score was 25.9. PK data demonstrated an approximately proportional increase in concentration with increasing dose and a terminal half-life of 20 hours. For the multiple-dose cohorts, serum TNF-α concentrations decreased to near-undetectable levels within two hours of commencing AZD9773 infusion. This suppression was maintained in most patients for the duration of treatment. AZD9773 was well tolerated. Most adverse events were of mild-to-moderate intensity and considered by the reporting investigator as unrelated to study treatment.

Conclusions

The safety, PK and PD data support the continued evaluation of AZD9773 in larger Phase IIb/III studies.
Simulated annealing for controlled-source audio-frequency magnetotelluric data inversion
Authors: Wang Ruo , Yin Changchun , Wang Miaoyue , Wang Guangjie
Published: February 2012

Simulated annealing (SA) is used to invert 1D controlled source audio-frequency magnetotelluric (CSAMT) data. In the annealing process, the system energy is taken as the root-mean-square fitting error between model responses and real data. The model parameters are the natural logarithms of the resistivity and the thickness in each layer of the earth. The annealing temperature decreases exponentially, while the model is refreshed randomly according to the temperature and is accepted according to a Boltzmann probability. We first tested the SA on synthetic data and developed a cooling schedule of model updates specifically for CSAMT data inversion. The redesigned cooling schedule reduces the magnitude of the model updating, and makes the solution converge rapidly and stably. For a three-layer model whose resistivity increases with depth, SA has difficulty in obtaining the global solution for the middle layer. However, the solution for such a layer can be significantly improved by using the mean value of the estimates. The inversion of field data from a northern suburb of Beijing, China, demonstrates that starting from a 1D smooth inversion to determine the range of SA parameters permits the SA to obtain very good results from the CSAMT survey data.
Relationship of Serum Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 with Abnormal Glucose Metabolism and Insulin Resistance: The Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Semba Richard D. , Sun Kai , Egan Josephine M. , Crasto Candace , Carlson Olga D. , Ferrucci Luigi
Published: February 2012

Context:

The relationship of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) with glucose metabolism and insulin resistance has not been well characterized in community-dwelling adults.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to examine the relationship of FGF21 with glucose metabolism and insulin resistance.

Design:

Serum FGF21, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glucose tolerance, and insulin resistance were measured in a cross-sectional study, 2002–2007.

Setting:

The study was the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging, a natural history cohort study of aging in community-dwelling men and women.

Participants:

Seven hundred adults, mean age 63.3 yr, participated in the study.

Main Outcome Measures:

FPG, 2-h plasma glucose, homeostasis model of insulin resistance, whole-body insulin sensitivity (Matsuda index), glucose area under the curve (AUC), and insulin AUC were measured.

Results:

Overall, the median (25th and 75th percentiles) FGF21 concentration was 225 (126, 370) pg/ml. The proportion of adults with normal, impaired, and diabetic FPG was 77.0, 21.4, and 1.6%, and those with normal, impaired, and diabetic 2-h plasma glucose was 76.7, 19.1, and 4.1%, respectively. Log serum FGF21 (picograms per milliliter), per 1 sd increase, was associated with an FPG (odds ratio 1.43, 95% confidence interval 1.15, 1.77, P = 0.001) and with 2-h plasma glucose (odds ratio 1.39, 95% confidence interval 1.12, 1.73, P = 0.003), in respective multivariate, ordered logistic regression models, adjusted for potential confounders. Serum FGF21 (picograms per milliliter) was associated with the homeostasis model of insulin resistance, the Matsuda index, glucose AUC, and insulin AUC (all P < 0.0001) in respective multivariable linear regression models adjusted for potential confounders.

Conclusions:

Higher serum FGF21 concentrations were associated with abnormal glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in community-dwelling adults.
Bowen’s Court and the Anglo-Irish World-System
Authors: Eatough Matt
Published: February 2012

Bowen’s Court has most commonly been confronted through methodological paradigms stressing its affinity to traditional Irish generic and historiographical conventions. In contrast, this essay reassesses Anglo-Ireland’s contribution to early twentieth-century literature by rereading Elizabeth Bowen’s text within the context of an international cultural and economic world-system. It argues that two historical narratives inform Bowen’s Court: a gothic chronicle of decline and a protoprofessional story of detached expertise. These narratives correspond to two visions of Anglo-Ireland’s transnational position, the first conceiving of the Protestant Ascendancy as neofeudal landlords who transform Irish labor into capitalist wealth, the second characterizing the Anglo-Irish as a cosmopolitan class of professional managers. By regarding these socioeconomic roles as affective dispositions between which her class vacillated, Bowen creates a cyclical history in which the deficiencies of gothic hysteria and detached professionalism supplement each other in a dialectical exchange. Understanding the socioeconomic circumstances underlying Bowen’s Court provides an important insight into how Bowen and fellow Anglo-Irish writers used affect to legitimate their class position after Irish independence, as well as how they were able to envision an Anglo-Irish renaissance.
Evaluation of malignant and benign renal lesions using diffusion-weighted MRI with multiple b values
Authors: Erbay Gurcan , Koc Zafer , Karadeli Elif , Kuzgunbay Barıs , Goren M Resit , Bal Nebil
Published: February 2012

Background

Limited data are available regarding the use of diffusion-weighted (DW) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with multiple b values for characterization of renal lesions.

Purpose

To demonstrate and compare the diagnostic performance of DW-MRI with multiple b values for renal lesion characterization.

Material and Methods

Sixty-three lesions (36 malignant, 27 benign) in 60 consecutive patients (48 men, 12 women; age 60 ± 12.5 years) with solid/cystic renal lesion diagnosed after MRI were included prospectively. Single-shot echo-planar DW abdominal MRI (1.5T) was obtained using seven b values with eight apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps. Contrast-to-noise ratios (CNRs), signal intensities, lesion ADCs, and lesion/normal parenchyma ADC ratios were analyzed. Receiver-operating characteristic analysis was performed.

Results

The mean signal intensities of malignant lesions (at b0, 50, and 200s/mm2) were significantly lower than those of benign lesions ( P < 0.05). The mean ADC values at all b value combinations of malignant lesions were significantly lower than those of benign lesions ( P < 0.000), excluding the ADC value at b50 s/mm2. ADC with all b values could better distinguish between benign and malignant lesions. A 1.35 × 10−3 mm2/s threshold ADC value permitted this distinction with 85.2% sensitivity and 65.6% specificity. The lesion/normal parenchyma ADC ratio was more effective than the lesion ADC.

Conclusion

In addition to the ADC value, the signal intensity curve on DW images using multiple b values could be helpful for differentiation of malignant and benign renal lesions.
Scientific study of the extent of transverse movement of the median nerve at the wrist during active wrist extension in static positions of the upper limb tension test one
Authors: Alexander Anne
Published: February 2012

Objective.

Longitudinal glide of the median nerve is affected in typical entrapment neuropathies such as carpal tunnel syndrome. The upper limb tension test one (ULTT1) is used by clinicians to assess patients’ responses to passive movements that affect the median nerve. ULTT1 is thought to mainly assess the longitudinal glide of the median nerve; however, transverse glide of the nerve at the wrist may be a more sensitive measure of an entrapment neuropathy.

Method.

Sixteen wrists of four male and 11 female healthy volunteers were studied with ultrasound imaging in this small original study. Images were collected in eight different combinations of shoulder, elbow and forearm posture. In each posture the wrist was moved from full flexion to 30° of extension.

Results

Nerve excursion from full wrist flexion to 30° of extension was mainly in a radio-dorsal direction. It ranged from a minimum of 1.8 mm (SD ± 2.0 mm) up to 3.57 mm (SD ± 1.86 mm) of transverse movement, and 0.22 mm (SD ± 0.59 mm) of volar movement to 0.96 mm (SD ± 0.76 mm) of dorsal movement. In all eight of the positions tested, forearm supination led to greater transverse movement of the nerve at the wrist.

Conclusions

Transverse movement of the median nerve is most marked with forearm supination, irrespective of other changes in the kinetic chain. The nerve moves dorsally in all movements except when the forearm flexors are off-loaded in elbow extension and elbow flexion. These findings confirm the transverse movement of the median nerve at the wrist, during active wrist extension within positions of the ULTT, but that the shoulder and elbow position have little impact on the degree of movement.
Stability of single-nucleotide bulge loops embedded in a GAAA RNA hairpin stem
Authors: Lim Geoffrey F.S. , Merz Gregory E. , McCann Michael D. , Gruskiewicz Jocelyn M. , Serra Martin J.
Published: February 2012

Forty-six RNA hairpins containing combinations of 3′ or 5′ bulge loops and a 3′ or 5′ fluorescein label were optically melted in 1 M NaCl, and the thermodynamic parameters ΔH°, ΔS°, ΔG°37, and TM for each hairpin were determined. The bulge loops were of the group I variety, in which the identity of the bulge is known, and the group II variety, in which the bulged nucleotide is identical to one of its nearest neighbors, leading to ambiguity as to the exact position of the bulge. The fluorescein label at either the 3′ end or 5′ end of the hairpin did not significantly influence the stability of the hairpin. As observed with bulge loops inserted into a duplex motif, the insertion of a bulge loop into the stem of a hairpin loop was destabilizing. The model developed to predict the influence of bulge loops on the stability of duplex formation was extended to predict the influence of bulge loops on hairpin stability. Specifically, the influence of the bulge is related to the stability of the hairpin stem distal from the hairpin loop.
Procuring Commodities: First-Price Sealed-Bid or English Auctions?
Authors: Shachat Jason , Wei Lijia
Published: February 2012

We use laboratory experiments to examine the relative performance of the English auction (EA) and the first-price sealed-bid auction (FPA) when procuring a commodity. The mean and variance of prices are lower in the FPA than in the EA. Bids and prices in the EA agree with game-theoretic predictions, but they do not agree in the FPA. To resolve these deviations found in the FPA, we introduce a mixture model with three bidding rules: constant absolute markup, constant percentage markup, and strategic best response. A dynamic specification in which bidders can switch strategies as they gain experience is estimated as a hidden Markov model. Initially, about three quarters of the subjects are strategic bidders, but over time, the number of strategic bidders falls to below 65%. There is a corresponding growth in those who use the constant absolute markup rule.
Fatal Acute Pulmonary Injury Associated with Everolimus
Authors: Depuydt Pieter , Nollet Joke , Benoit Dominique , Praet Marleen , Caes Frank
Published: February 2012

Objective:

To report a case of fatal alveolar hemorrhage associated with the use of everolimus in a patient who underwent a solid organ transplant.

Case Summary:

In a 71-year-old cardiac transplant patient, ciclosporine was replaced with everolimus because of worsening renal function. Over the following weeks, the patient developed nonproductive cough and increasing dyspnea. His condition deteriorated to acute respiratory failure with hemoptysis, requiring hospital admission. Bilateral patchy alveolar infiltrates were apparent on chest X-ray and computed tomography. Cardiac failure was ruled out and empiric antimicrobial therapy was initiated. Additional extensive workup could not document opportunistic infection. Everolimus was discontinued and high-dose corticosteroid therapy was initiated. Despite this, the patient required invasive mechanical ventilation and died because of refractory massive hemoptysis. Autopsy revealed diffuse alveolar hemorrhage.

Discussion:

Everolimus is a mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor approved for use as an immunosuppressant and antineoplastic agent. Its main advantage over calcineurin inhibitors (tacrolimus and cyclosporine) is a distinct safety profile. Although it has become clear that everolimus induces pulmonary toxicity more frequently than initially thought, most published cases thus far represented mild and reversible disease, and none was fatal. Here, we report a case of pulmonary toxicity developing over weeks following the introduction of everolimus, in which a fatal outcome could not be prevented by drug withdrawal and corticosteroid treatment. The association of everolimus and this syndrome was probable according to the Naranjo probability scale.

Conclusions:

This case indicates that with the increasing use of everolimus, clinicians should be aware of the rare, but life-threatening manifestation of pulmonary toxicity.
Mellkassebészeti betegek posztoperatív kezelése digitális szívórendszer alkalmazásával
Authors: Szántó Zoltán , Kovács Ottó
Published: February 2012

Absztrakt

Bevezetés: A tüdőresectiókat követő leggyakoribb szövődmény a tartós levegőáteresztés, amely az immobilisatióval együtt hozzájárul a kezelési költségek emelkedéséhez. Anyag és módszer: A szerzők retrospektíven elemzik a 2011. március 1-től 2011. október 30-ig terjedő időszakban egy általános mellkassebészeti osztály 40 betegének adatait. A 22 férfi és 18 nőbeteg átlagéletkora 61,6 év volt. Minden betegnél nyílt vagy VATS műtét során lebeny-, illetve ékresectio történt, NSCLC, ptx, illetve solitaer perifériás benignoma vagy metastasis miatt. A posztoperatív szakban hordozható, digitális szívórendszert (Thopaz) alkalmaztak. A drainek eltávolításának idejét is a digitális adatok segítségével határozták meg. Eredmények: A nyitott műtétek során történt ékresectiókat követően 57 óra drainage- és 6,2 nap ápolási időtartamot, a lebenyresectiókat követően 59,8 óra drainage- és 6,8 nap ápolási időtartamot észleltek. A VATS során végzett ékresectiók után 75,2 óra drainage- és 5 nap ápolási időtartamot, míg 2 esetben végzett VATS lobectomiát követően 48 óra drainage- és 4,5 nap ápolási időtartamot találtak. Következtetések: A mellkassebészeti digitális szívórendszerek hordozható, könnyen kezelhető és biztonságos készülékek, objektív adatokat szolgáltatnak a posztoperatív levegőáteresztés nagyságáról, és grafikusan ábrázolják a tendenciáját is. A korai mobilizációval hozzájárulnak a kezelési költségek csökkentéséhez, a VATS technikát támogatva a betegek egyre kisebb megterhelésével precízebb posztoperatív kezelést tesznek lehetővé, rövidítve a gyógyulás időtartamát.
Thermal Transport Properties of Ag-Based Nanocomposites Containing MWCNTs
Authors: Inoue M. , Hayashi Y. , Takizawa H.
Published: February 2012

Variation in thermal conductivity of Ag-based composites by introduction of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was investigated. The Ag/MWCNT nanocomposite powder was successfully prepared when appropriate surfactants were used via a sonoprocess. The nanocomposite powder was subsequently cured at 280-300 ºC in air. After curing, the thermal conductivity of the nanocomposites was compared with the electronic contribution to thermal conductivity that was estimated from experimental values of the electrical conductivity. The thermal conductivity of Ag/MWCNT nanocomposites was much higher than the electronic contribution. Therefore, the increase in thermal conductivity of the Ag-based nanocomposites is attributed to phonon transfer along the percolation network of MWCNTs.
Development of Silicon Carbide Substrates for Aerospace Applications
Authors: Abdalla Antonio J. , Damião Álvaro J. , Campos Elson , Santana Jerusa G.A. , Vicentini Marcelo C. , Trevisan Thiago A. , Inoue Henrique , Santos Marcos V.R. , Melo Francisco C.L.
Published: February 2012

Payload and high-tech are important characteristics when the goals are aerospace applications. The development of the technologies associated to these applications has interests that transcend national boundaries and are of strategic importance to the nations. Ultra lightweight mirrors, supports and structures for optical systems are important part of this subject. This paper reports the development of SiC substrates, obtained by pressing, to be applied on embedded precision reflective optics. Different SiC granulometries, having YAG as sintering additive, were processed by: ball milling, drying and deagglomeration, sift, uniaxial and isostatic pressing, and, finally, argon atmosphere sintering at 1900°C. Different porosities were obtained according to the amount of organic material added. Into one side of the samples pellets of organic material were introduced to generate voids to reduce the weight of samples as a whole. The substrates were grinding and polished, looking for a SiC surface having low porosity, as porosity is directly related to light scattering that should be avoided on optical surfaces. Laser surface treatments were applied (using or not SiC barbotine) as a method to improve the surface quality. The samples were characterized by optical and laser confocal microscopy, roughness measurements and mechanical tests. The results are very promissory for future applications.
Particle Swarm Optimization for Milling Titanium Alloy
Authors: Escamilla I. , Torres L. , Gonzalez B. , Zambrano P.
Published: February 2012

Optimum machining parameters are of great concern in manufacturing environments, where economy of machining operation plays a key role in competitiveness in the market. Many researchers have dealt with the optimization of machining parameters for milling operations. In this paper, optimization procedures based on particle swarm optimization algorithm are developed for find machining parameters in milling operation. It describes development and utilization of the methodology that determines optimum Pareto’s front analyzing feed, speed and depth for milling operation. The relationships between machining parameters and the performance measures of interest are obtained by using experimental data and a swarm intelligent neural network system. Results show that particle swarm optimization is an effective method for solving multi-objective optimization problems, and also, that an integrated system of neural networks and swarm intelligence can be used to solve complex machining optimization problems.
Epidemiological aspects of human and canine visceral leishmaniasis in Montes Claros, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, between 2007 and 2009
Authors: Prado Patrícia Fernandes do , Rocha Marília Fonseca , Sousa Joel Fontes de , Caldeira Dênio Iuri , Paz Gustavo Fontes , Dias Edelberto Santos
Published: February 2012

INTRODUCTION: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is an expanding zoonosis in Brazil and is becoming urbanized in several Brazilian regions. This study aims to describe the epidemiological features of human and canine VL in the municipality of Montes Claros, State of Minas Gerais, by focusing on their spatial distribution. METHODS: Data concerning human cases and reactive dogs for VL from 2007 to 2009 were obtained from the Information System for Disease Notification (SINAN) and from reports of the local Centro de Controle de Zoonoses (CCZ), respectively. The addresses of human and canine cases have been georeferenced and localized in thematic maps, allowing their spatial visualization as well as the identification of areas at risk of VL transmission. RESULTS: Ninety-five cases of human VL were reported in the period. The 0-9-year-old age group (48.4%) was the most affected, within which the majority consisted of male patients (64%). Of the samples collected for the canine serological survey, 2,919 (6.3%) were reactive to VL. The spatial localization of these cases shows that the disease was scattered in the urban area of the municipality. Areas showing a higher dissemination risk were concentrated in the central, northwestern, and southern regions of the city. CONCLUSIONS: Identifying the areas most at risk in urban Montes Claros may help guide actions toward local epidemiological vigilance and control.
Different culture media containing methyldopa for melanin production by Cryptococcus species
Authors: Menezes Ralciane de Paula , Penatti Mário Paulo Amante , Pedroso Reginaldo dos Santos
Published: February 2012

INTRODUCTION: Melanin production by species of Cryptococcus is widely used to characterize C. neoformans complex in mycology laboratories. This study aims to test the efficacy of methyldopa from pharmaceutical tablet as a substrate for melanin production, to compare the production of melanin using different agar base added with methyldopa, and to compare the melanin produced in those media with that produced in Niger seed agar and sunflower seed agar by C. neoformans, C. laurentii, and C. albidus. Two isolates of each species, C. neoformans, C. laurentii, and C. albidus, and one of Candida albicans were used to experimentally detect conditions for melanin production. METHODS: The following media were tested: Mueller-Hinton agar (MHA), brain and heart infusion agar (BHIA), blood agar base (BAB), and minimal medium agar (MMA), all added with methyldopa, and the media Niger seed agar (NSA) and sunflower seed agar (SSA). RESULTS: All isolates grew in most of the culture media after 24h. Strains planted on media BAB and BHIA showed growth only after 48h. All isolates produced melanin in MMA, MHA, SSA, and NSA media. CONCLUSIONS: Methyldopa in the form pharmaceutical tablet can be used as a substrate for melanin production by Cryptococcus species; minimal medium plus methyldopa was more efficient than the BAB, MHA, and BHIA in the melanin production; and NSA and SSA, followed by MMA added with methyldopa, were more efficient than other media studied for melanin production by all strains studied.
Caracterização da tuberculose multidroga resistente durante a gravidez, em Campinas, Estado de São Paulo, Brasil, no período de 1995 a 2007
Authors: Oliveira Helenice Bosco de , Mateus Silvia Helena Rondina
Published: February 2012

INTRODUÇÃO: Foi feito um acompanhamento das gestantes tratadas para tuberculose multidroga resistente (TB-MDR) durante a gravidez, em Campinas, Estado de São Paulo, no período de 1995 a 2007. MÉTODOS: No estudo retrospectivo, foram incluídas pacientes com cepa resistente, pelo menos à isoniazida e à rifampicina e gravidez em qualquer momento, durante o tratamento. Os casos receberam esquema individualizado baseado nos padrões de resistência medicamentosa e nos antecedentes de tratamento de cada paciente. RESULTADOS: Sete gestantes apresentaram resistência a duas ou mais drogas. Três já estavam grávidas, antes do início do tratamento e quatro engravidaram depois. Duas estavam com Aids, uma foi a óbito e em outra ocorreu falência de tratamento. Todas apresentaram tuberculose avançada com achados radiológicos graves e para cinco pacientes o tempo médio da conversão do escarro foi de quatro meses. Duas gestantes foram curadas. Dois recém-nascidos foram infectados com o HIV por suas progenitoras. CONCLUSÕES: O resultado do tratamento foi insatisfatório e a supervisão direta é imperativa na TB-MDR durante a gestação. O planejamento familiar deve ser fortemente recomendado.
Caracterização do vírus da hepatite C em pacientes com hepatite crônica: genótipos no Estado do Amazonas, Brasil
Authors: Araújo Ana Ruth , Almeida Carlos Mauríco de , Fraporti Liziara , Garcia Nadja , Lima Tatiane Amábili de , Maia Laura Patrícia Viana , Torres Kátia Luz , Tarragô Andréa Monteiro , Victória Flamir , Victória Marilu , Tateno Adriana , Levi José Eduardo , Talhari Sinésio , Malheiro Adriana
Published: February 2012

INTRODUÇÃO: No Estado do Amazonas, os dados sobre a prevalência dos genótipos do vírus da hepatite C ainda são escassos. MÉTODOS: Os genótipos do VHC foram determinados em 69 pacientes da Fundação de Medicina Tropical do Amazonas - FMT-AM. O RNA do VHC foi detectado pela técnica de RT-PCR, utilizando-se iniciadores HC11/HC18 para a região 5'não traduzida. RESULTADOS: Dos 69 pacientes, 65,2% era do sexo masculino e 34,8% do feminino. O genótipo 1 foi o mais prevalente, seguidos dos 3 e 2. CONCLUSÕES: Estes dados sugerem que Manaus é uma porta de entrada do vírus VHC no Estado do Amazonas.
Cinética dos anticorpos de origem colostral contra a toxina épsilon de Clostridium perfringens tipo D em cordeiros
Authors: Costa Heni F. , Babboni Selene D. , Rodrigues Carlos F.C. , Padovani Carlos R. , Dutra Iveraldo S. , Modolo José R.
Published: February 2012

Enterotoxemia, uma das mais importantes enfermidades que acomete os pequenos ruminantes domésticos, é causada principalmente pela toxina épsilon de Clostridium perfringens tipo D. O presente estudo avaliou a cinética de anticorpos colostrais antitoxina épsilon em cordeiros nascidos de ovelhas submetidas a dois diferentes tipos de manejo sanitário. Um grupo de ovelhas prenhes (n=6) foi vacinado com uma dose única de vacina comercial polivalente contra clostridioses contendo toxóide épsilon na sua formulação cerca de 30 dias antes da data prevista para a parição. Outro grupo de ovelhas (n=6) de mesma idade gestacional não foi vacinado. Imediatamente após o parto, antes da ingestão do colostro, foram colhidas amostras sanguíneas dos respectivos cordeiros, bem como aos 30 e 60 dias de idade e submetidas à avaliação sorológica pelo teste de ELISA indireto. Os resultados encontrados permitem concluir que a vacinação de ovelhas prenhes 30 dias antes do parto contra a enterotoxemia causada pela toxina épsilon, com dose única de produto comercial, induz imunidade passiva em níveis considerados protetores (>0,5UI/ml) aos cordeiros por, no mínimo, 60 dias de idade.
Experimental poisoning of goats by Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa in Argentina: a clinic and pathological correlation with special consideration on the central nervous system
Authors: Ríos Elvio E. , Cholich Luciana A. , Gimeno Eduardo J. , Guidi María G. , Acosta de Pérez Ofelia C.
Published: February 2012

Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa, aguapei or mandiyura, is responsible for lysosomal storage in goats. The shrub contains several alkaloids, mainly swansonine which inhibits lysosomal α-mannosidase and Golgi mannosidase II. Poisoning occurs by inhibition of these hydrolases. There is neuronal vacuolation, endocrine dysfunction, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal injury, and immune disorders. Clinical signs and pathology of the experimental poisoning of goats by Ipomoea carnea in Argentina are here described. Five goats received fresh leaves and stems of Ipomoea. At the beginning, the goats did not consume the plant, but later, it was preferred over any other forage. High dose induced rapid intoxication, whereas with low doses, the course of the toxicosis was more protracted. The goats were euthanized when they were recumbent. Cerebrum, cerebellum, medulla oblongata, pons and colliculi, were routinely processed for histology. In nine days, the following clinical signs developed: abnormal fascies, dilated nostrils and abnormal postures of the head, cephalic tremors and nystagmus, difficulty in standing. Subsequently, the goats had a tendency to fall, always to the left, with spastic convulsions. There was lack in coordination of voluntary movements due to Purkinje and deep nuclei neurons damage. The cochlear reflex originated hyperreflexia, abnormal posture, head movements and tremors. The withdrawal reflex produced flexor muscles hypersensitivity at the four legs, later depression and stupor. Abnormal responses to sounds were related to collicular lesions. Thalamic damage altered the withdrawal reflex, showing incomplete reaction. The observed cervical hair bristling was attributed to a thalamic regulated nociceptive response. Depression may be associated with agonists of lysergic acid contained in Ipomoea. These clinical signs were correlated with lesions in different parts of the CNS.