bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential expression of metallothioneins (MTs) 1, 2, and 3 in response to zinc treatment in human prostate normal and malignant cells and tissues
Authors: Wei Hua , Desouki Mohamed Mokhtar , Lin Shufei , Xiao Dakai , Franklin Renty B , Feng Pei
Published: January 2008

Background

The disturbance of zinc homeostasis featured with a significant decrease of cellular zinc level was well documented to associate with the development and progression of human prostate malignancy. We have previously reported that zinc treatment induces prostate malignant cell apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway. Metallothionein (MT) is a major receptor/donor of zinc in the cells. However, the studies on the expression of MT in association with the prostate pathological and malignant status are very limited, and the zinc regulation of MT isoform expression in prostate cells remains elusive. The goals of this study were to define the expression of endogenous MTs, the isoforms of MT 1, 2, 3 at both messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein levels; and to investigate the zinc effect on MT expression in normal prostate, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and malignant PC-3 cells, and in relevant human tissues. Cellular MT proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry, fluorescence staining and Western blot analysis; reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to determine the MT isoform-specific mRNAs.

Results

Our results demonstrated a significant suppression of endogenous levels of MT1/2 in malignant PC-3 cells (95% reduction compared to the normal prostate cells) and in human adenocarcinoma tissues (73% MT1/2 negative). A moderate reduction of MT1/2 expression was observed in BPH. Zinc treatment remarkably induced MT1/2 expression in PC-3 and BPH cells, which was accordant with the restored cellular zinc level. MT 3, as a growth inhibitory factor, was detected and up-regulated by zinc mainly in BPH cells.

Conclusion

This study provided evidence of the association of attenuated MT1/2 with prostate tumor progression, and the zinc induction of MT1/2 expression resulting in cellular zinc restoration. The results suggest the potential of MT1/2 as a candidate biomarker for prostate cancer and the utilization of zinc in prostate cancer prevention and treatment.
Evidence that the Nijmegen breakage syndrome protein, an early sensor of double-strand DNA breaks (DSB), is involved in HIV-1 post-integration repair by recruiting the ataxia telangiectasia-mutated kinase in a process similar to, but distinct from, cellular DSB repair
Authors: Smith Johanna A , Wang Feng-Xiang , Zhang Hui , Wu Kou-Juey , Williams Kevin Jon , Daniel René
Published: January 2008

Retroviral transduction involves integrase-dependent linkage of viral and host DNA that leaves an intermediate that requires post-integration repair (PIR). We and others proposed that PIR hijacks the host cell double-strand DNA break (DSB) repair pathways. Nevertheless, the geometry of retroviral DNA integration differs considerably from that of DSB repair and so the precise role of host-cell mechanisms in PIR remains unclear. In the current study, we found that the Nijmegen breakage syndrome 1 protein (NBS1), an early sensor of DSBs, associates with HIV-1 DNA, recruits the ataxia telangiectasia-mutated (ATM) kinase, promotes stable retroviral transduction, mediates efficient integration of viral DNA and blocks integrase-dependent apoptosis that can arise from unrepaired viral-host DNA linkages. Moreover, we demonstrate that the ATM kinase, recruited by NBS1, is itself required for efficient retroviral transduction. Surprisingly, recruitment of the ATR kinase, which in the context of DSB requires both NBS1 and ATM, proceeds independently of these two proteins. A model is proposed emphasizing similarities and differences between PIR and DSB repair. Differences between the pathways may eventually allow strategies to block PIR while still allowing DSB repair.
Adipose tissue transcriptomic signature highlights the pathological relevance of extracellular matrix in human obesity
Authors: Henegar Corneliu , Tordjman Joan , Achard Vincent , Lacasa Danièle , Cremer Isabelle , Guerre-Millo Michèle , Poitou Christine , Basdevant Arnaud , Stich Vladimir , Viguerie Nathalie , Langin Dominique , Bedossa Pierre , Zucker Jean-Daniel , Clement Karine
Published: January 2008

Background

Investigations performed in mice and humans have acknowledged obesity as a low-grade inflammatory disease. Several molecular mechanisms have been convincingly shown to be involved in activating inflammatory processes and altering cell composition in white adipose tissue (WAT). However, the overall importance of these alterations, and their long-term impact on the metabolic functions of the WAT and on its morphology, remain unclear.

Results

Here, we analyzed the transcriptomic signature of the subcutaneous WAT in obese human subjects, in stable weight conditions and after weight loss following bariatric surgery. An original integrative functional genomics approach was applied to quantify relations between relevant structural and functional themes annotating differentially expressed genes in order to construct a comprehensive map of transcriptional interactions defining the obese WAT. These analyses highlighted a significant up-regulation of genes and biological themes related to extracellular matrix (ECM) constituents, including members of the integrin family, and suggested that these elements could play a major mediating role in a chain of interactions that connect local inflammatory phenomena to the alteration of WAT metabolic functions in obese subjects. Tissue and cellular investigations, driven by the analysis of transcriptional interactions, revealed an increased amount of interstitial fibrosis in obese WAT, associated with an infiltration of different types of inflammatory cells, and suggest that phenotypic alterations of human pre-adipocytes, induced by a pro-inflammatory environment, may lead to an excessive synthesis of ECM components.

Conclusion

This study opens new perspectives in understanding the biology of human WAT and its pathologic changes indicative of tissue deterioration associated with the development of obesity.
Anti-osteosarcoma effects and mechanisms of 4-O-amino-phenol-4‘-demethylepipodophyllotoxin ether
Authors: Yang Tuan-Min , Guo Shi-Fang , Chen Chang-Rui , Zhang Xiao-Yu , Li Wen-Guang
Published: January 2008

The purpose of this study was to investigate the anti-osteosarcoma effects and mechanisms of 4-O-amino-phenol-4′-demethylepipodophyllotoxin ether (ODE), a new derivative of podophyllotoxin. The results showed that ODE inhibited proliferation of K562, OS-9901, CNE, BGC-823 and Tca-8113 cells in a time- and concentration-dependent manner as determined by microculture tetrazolium (MTT) assay. OS-9901 and K562 cells treated with ODE for 24h showed cell cycle arrest at G2/M and a parallel decrease in G0/G1 and S phase as detected by flow cytometry (FCM). Meanwhile, a fraction of cells with hypodiploid DNA content representing apoptosis were detected by FCM. Morphology observation also revealed typical apoptotic features, including shrinkage of cellular and nuclear membranes, condensed heterochromatin around the nuclear periphery and cytoplasmic vacuolation in OS-9901 cells. Under a confocal laser scanning microscope, intracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentrations were greatly increased whereas the pH value, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were markedly reduced in OS-9901 cells after treatment with ODE. Taken together, these results suggest that the anti-osteosarcoma mechanisms of ODE are attributed to apoptosis through increasing intracellular Ca2+ and Mg2+ concentrations, and reducing pH value, MMP and ROS.
N-Acetyl-D-glucosamine oligosaccharides induce mucin secretion from colonic tissue and induce differentiation of human keratinocytes
Authors: Deters Alexandra , Petereit Frank , Schmidgall Jörg , Hensel Andreas
Published: January 2008

Chitin oligosaccharides (DP2, DP3, DP4, DP5 and DP7) were investigated for their effects on epithelial cells and tissue (skin keratinocytes in-vitro and ex-vivo, and gastrointestinal epithelial membranes ex-vivo). Oligomers DP2, DP3 and DP5 at 10 μg mL−1 significantly stimulated the mitochondrial activity of cultured keratinocytes in-vitro (primary cells and HaCaT cell line), with highest activity observed for the pentamer (150% of untreated control). The effects were dose dependent. This higher energy status of primary cells was triggered into a higher differentiation status, as determined by the early and late differentiation markers keratins K1/K10 and involucrin, respectively. In contrast, increased mitogenic cell proliferation was not induced by the oligosaccharides. Toxic effects on keratinocytes were absent. Additionally for the first time a mucin-stimulating effect of chitin oligosaccharides DP3 and DP5 was observed in an ex-vivo model based on intestinal epithelial mucosa tissue. Mucin secretion was time dependent, leading to the secretion of polymers comparable to those normally secreted under physiological conditions. Mucin induction was observed from colonic tissue isolated from humans and pigs. Also, porcine stomach mucosa was stimulated by DP5, while ileum tissue reacted to only a minor extent. Potential developments towards products with wound-healing capacity and activity against chronic bowel disease are discussed.
Suppression of adjuvant arthritis by hesperidin in rats and its mechanisms
Authors: Li Rong , Li Jun , Cai Li , Hu Cheng-mu , Zhang Lei
Published: January 2008

The citrus flavonoid hesperidin has been reported to possess a wide range of pharmacological properties. We have investigated the preventive and therapeutic effects of hesperidin on the development of adjuvant arthritis (AA), a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Freund's complete adjuvant was used to induce AA in rats. Secondary paw swelling, polyarthritis index and histopathological assessment of ankle joints were used to evaluate the effects of hesperidin on AA rats. Concanavalin-A-induced T-lymphocyte proliferation and interleukin (IL)-2 production by splenocytes were measured using the MTT assay. Levels of IL-1, IL-6 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α secreted by peritoneal macrophages (PM) were measured by RIA. Intragastric administration of hesperidin significantly attenuated secondary paw swelling and reduced the polyarthritis index of AA rats in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, hesperidin clearly ameliorated the pathological changes in AA rats. Hesperidin also restored the suppression of T-lymphocyte proliferation and IL-2 production, and downregulated production of IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α by PM in AA rats. Our results suggest that hesperidin improves AA by downregulating the function of over-active macrophages and by up-regulating the activities of dysfunctional T lymphocytes. Hesperidin may therefore have therapeutic value for the clinical treatment of RA. Further research is required to clarify the detailed mechanisms of the protective effects of hesperidin on AA.
Relaxant action mechanism of berberine identified as the active principle of Argemone ochroleuca Sweet in guinea-pig tracheal smooth muscle
Authors: Sánchez-Mendoza María Elena , Castillo-Henkel Carlos , Navarrete Andrés
Published: January 2008

In this study we investigated the relaxant effect of the aerial parts of Argemone ochroleuca (Papaveraceae), which is used in Mexican traditional medicine for the treatment of various respiratory diseases such as cough, bronchitis and asthma. The alkaloid berberine was identified as one of the active relaxant principles (EC50 = 118.50 ± 3.91 μM) in the dichloromethane extract of A. ochroleuca (EC50 = 78.03 ± 2.15 μg mL−1 with 95.12 ± 3.56% of relaxation). Berberine concentration-dependently relaxed the carbachol-induced precontractions but not histamine- or KCl-induced precontraction. The relaxant effect of berberine was unaffected by the presence of propranolol (3 μM), glibenclamide (10 μM) or ODQ (10 μM). However, 2′, 5′-dideoxyadenosine (10 μM) blocked the log concentration-response curves of berberine. On the other hand, berberine produced a leftward shift of the log concentration-response curves of isoproterenol, forskolin and nitroprusside. Additionally, berberine produced a parallel rightward shift of the concentration-response curve of carbachol in a competitive manner with a pA2 of 3.87 ± 0.045. The above results suggest that the relaxant effect of berberine on tracheal muscle is due to its antagonistic effect on muscarinic acetylcholine receptors.
Microscale sensors based on silicon carbide and silicon
Authors: Cheung R , Argyrakis P
Published: January 2008

The current paper consists of two topics related to microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). The first topic reviews recent advances made in the area of silicon carbide (SiC) MEMS for applications in harsh environments. Given the unique properties of SiC, the potential and progress in the development and deployment of the harsh environment material for the fabrication and characterization of resonators and pressure sensors are described. The second topic details the motivation behind the study of biologically inspired systems and how silicon-based microscale sensors with out-of-plane structures could be integrated with analogue very-large-scale integrated circuits (VLSI) for insect-inspired robotic studies.
Energy harvesting from motion using rotating and gyroscopic proof masses
Authors: Yeatman E M
Published: January 2008

Energy harvesting — the extraction of energy from the local environment for conversion to electrical power — is of particular interest for low power wireless devices such as body or machine mounted sensors. Motion and vibration are a potential energy source, and can be exploited by inertial devices, which derive electrical power by the damping of the relative movement of a proof mass mounted in a frame attached to the moving host. Inertial devices using linear motion of the proof mass, which have been extensively studied and developed, have a maximum power output limited by the internal travel range of the proof mass. In the current paper, the potential power of devices using rotating proof masses, powered by linear or rotational host motion, is analysed. Two new operation modes are introduced: rotationally resonant devices, and devices driven by continuous rotation. In each case the maximum achievable power densities are estimated, and these are compared with equivalent expressions for devices with linear proof mass motion where appropriate. The possibility of using actively driven, gyroscopic structures is then introduced, and the potential power of such devices is considered. By avoiding the linear displacement limit and the limited mass of conventional devices, it is shown that increases in obtainable power are possible if parasitic damping is minimized, particularly for cases of low linear source amplitude. Finally, issues of implementation are discussed, with an emphasis on microengineered devices.
Effect of temperature on the mechanical and bonding properties of a carbon-reinforced bismaleimide
Authors: da Silva L F M , Adams R D
Published: January 2008

For high temperature usage (200 °C and above) such as in certain supersonic aircraft structures, composites often used are either bismaleimides (BMI) or polyimides reinforced with carbon fibres. The composite used in this investigation was a carbon fabric 0/90° laminate of high-strength carbon fibres in a 2 × 2 twill weave impregnated with a BMI resin. To determine the mechanical behaviour of the BMI composite as a function of temperature, dynamic and static tests were preformed from −55 to +200 °C. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the BMI composite was measured using strain gauges. Joint strength results are also presented to illustrate the importance of the through thickness strength of composites used in adhesive joints. The results show that the modulus and strength of the BMI composite suffer little variation from −55 to +200 °C and that it is important to take the CTE into account for the flexural modulus determination.
Estimation of Adsorption Parameters from Temperature-Programmed Desorption Thermograms: Application to the Adsorption of Carbon Dioxide onto Alumina
Authors: Delgado José A. , Sotelo José L. , Gómez José M. , Gómez Pilar
Published: January 2008

In this work, a model is proposed for estimating the desorption activation energy from a TPD thermogram. The model considers the effects of diffusional resistance, the reactor cell volume, the sample weight and the carrier gas flow rate. The adsorption and desorption rate constants are estimated using theoretical expressions deduced from statistical thermodynamics, assuming first-order desorption kinetics. This model has been applied to the CO2/activated alumina system. The TPD thermogram has been obtained with a commercial apparatus, and the distribution of the desorption activation energy has been analyzed. A sensitivity analysis has been performed to determine the importance of different phenomena which can alter the position of the TPD peaks (re-adsorption, diffusional resistance, volume of sample cell). An experimental study of the effect of diffusional resistance has also been performed, comparing the TPD thermograms obtained with powdered and pelletized alumina. The experimental results have been compared with the model predictions.
Study of Oxygen Desorption from SnO2: New Possibilities through Fast Intermittent Temperature-Programmed Desorption
Authors: Gaillard F. , Joly J.-P. , Perrard A.
Published: January 2008

A differential desorption technique called intermittent temperature-programmed desorption (ITPD) was used to gain new information on the superficial oxygen species of SnO2, a solid used extensively for the preparation of sensors and redox catalysts. The use of an original device involving an induction heating system enabled the time necessary for ITPD determination to be decreased by a factor of 20 or so, compared to that with a classical apparatus. TPD and ITPD studies carried out in vacuum showed the existence of at least two distinct states desorbing at temperatures higher than 700 K. The corresponding amount of adsorbed oxygen was less than 10% of that necessary for the formation of a compact monolayer of oxide ions. These two states exhibited apparent activation energies of desorption, Eapp, equal to 285 ± 10 kJ/mol and 334 ± 8 kJ/mol, respectively. The corresponding frequency factors, v, were far higher than 1013 s−1, indicating that re-adsorption was unlikely and that Eapp was equal to the activation energy for desorption, Ed. Calculations using a classical desorption rate expression showed that the ITPD profiles could be simulated and compared to the experimental data successfully.
Importance of the Hydrophobic Character of Activated Carbons on the Removal of Naphthalene from the Aqueous Phase
Authors: Ania C.O. , Cabal B. , Parra J.B. , Pis J. J.
Published: January 2008

A commercial activated carbon was systematically modified by heat treatment at 450°C and 850°C to obtain a series of carbons with various oxygen contents, porous structures and surface functionalities. The carbons were used to investigate the role of adsorbent properties on the removal of naphthalene from aqueous solution. The results confirmed that the adsorption of naphthalene depended strongly on the pore-size distribution of the adsorbent. DTG analysis of the exhausted samples indicated that adsorption forces were stronger in carbons with pores of dimensions close to those of naphthalene. Functionalization of the carbon also influenced its overall adsorption capacity, with uptake being favoured in carbons of a basic nature. The hydrophilic character of the carbons gave rise to strong water competition due to increasing polarity in the adsorbents. This polarity created hydration clusters that reduced the accessibility and affinity of naphthalene molecules to the inner pore structure.
Separation of Branched Hexane Isomers on Zeolite BETA
Authors: Bárcia Patrick S. , Silva José A.C. , Rodrigues Alírio E.
Published: January 2008

An experimental study of the single, binary, ternary and quaternary fixed bed adsorption of hexane isomers onto zeolite BETA was performed covering the temperature range between 423 K and 523 K and partial pressures up to 0.3 bar. Adsorption equilibrium isotherms were collected from breakthrough experiments. Based on an analysis of sorption events at the molecular level, a Tri-Site Langmuir model (TSL) was developed to interpret the equilibrium data with good accuracy. At the partial pressures studied, it was found that the degree of branching was related to the affinity; the sorption hierarchy was most favourable towards the linear isomer and least favourable towards the di-branched ones. A mathematical model based on a linear driving force (LDF) was developed and used to test the experimental data. It was found that the model predicted the behaviour of the fixed bed experiments with good accuracy. Zeolite BETA demonstrated significant selectivity between branched C6 isomers (especially at low coverage), thereby suggesting a means of solving this difficult separation problem.
Analysis of the Structure of Alumina-Pillared Clays by Nitrogen and Carbon Dioxide Adsorption
Authors: Gil A. , Trujillano R. , Vicente M.A. , Korili S.A.
Published: January 2008

Nitrogen and carbon dioxide adsorption methods were used to study the structural properties developed by a series of alumina-pillared clays. The solids were prepared by varying the Al/clay ratio and the calcination temperature of a montmorillonite intercalated with solutions of aluminium. Equilibrium data for CO2 adsorption by these materials were analyzed using the Langmuir, Freundlich and Toth isotherm models. The fitting parameters for these models demonstrated the heterogeneous nature of the materials studied and that CO2 interaction with the surface was influenced by the calcination temperature.
An IGC Study of the Role of Washing Procedures on the Adsorption Properties of Activated Carbons
Authors: Díaz Eva , Ordóñez Salvador , Vega Aurelio
Published: January 2008

Inverse gas chromatography (IGC) was used to study the influence of different washing treatments (acid, basic and combined washings) on the adsorption properties of two different activated carbons (steam- and chemically-activated). Chemical and textural characterization was carried out by the use of nitrogen adsorption, ICP-MS and temperature programmed desorption methods. The adsorption capacity and the interaction strength (sub-divided into dispersive and specific components) were determined by IGC.

Washing procedures (especially those involving acid washing) removed mineral ash almost completely from the carbon samples studied. The steam-activated carbon exhibited the best adsorptive behaviour. The removal of mineral ash enhanced the adsorption of the compounds studied, especially alkanes. Washing procedures also modified the chemical structures of the organic functionalities, but this did not appear to be relevant as far as the adsorption properties of these materials were concerned.
Advanced Preparative Strategies for Activated Carbons Designed for the Adsorptive Storage of Hydrogen
Authors: Celzard A. , Fierro V. , Marêché J.F. , Furdin G.
Published: January 2008

Since air quality is a major public health concern, especially in urban areas, the use of alternative fuels for vehicular applications has been strongly encouraged. Of these fuels, hydrogen is the only one that can produce zero emission through fuel cells. However, the storage of such a very light and highly combustible gas has yet to be solved.

Only adsorption storage is discussed in the present paper. It should be recalled that no material has been capable of meeting the recommended targets to date. Recent progresses in preparing suitable carbon structures for hydrogen storage are described, and new routes for characterising and correspondingly improving the micropore texture are explored.
Multidrug resistance in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Szendrei Tamás , Magyarlaki Tamás , Kovács Gábor , Nagy Ágnes , Szomor Árpád , Molnár Lenke , Dávid Mariann , Tőkés-Füzesi Margit , Rideg Orsolya , Pótó László , Pajor László , Kajtár Béla , Losonczy Hajna
Published: January 2008

Az utóbbi években krónikus lymphoid leukaemiában új prognosztikai faktorok vizsgálata került a figyelem középpontjába. A citogenetikai eltérések, az immunglobulin-nehézlánc génmutációs státusza, a CD38- és ZAP70-expresszió mind a közelmúltban megismert prognosztikus faktorok, de kevés az adat a multidrog-rezisztencia jelentőségéről.
Célok:
A tanulmány célja genetikai, expressziós és funkcionális szinten jellemezni 82 krónikus lymphoid leukaemiában szenvedő beteg multidrog-rezisztenciájának sajátosságait, és vizsgálni azok összefüggését a betegek túlélésével és a kezelésre adott válasszal.
Módszerek:
a szerzők 66 betegnél vizsgálták az MDR-1
gén
ben – Light Cycler Real Time PCR segítségével meghatározott – „Single Nucleotid Polymorphism” sajátosságot, amely irodalmi adatok szerint a P-glikoprotein expresszióját befolyásolja. Összesen 82 betegnél áramlási citometria során anti-P-glikoprotein monoklonális antitest segítségével a P-glikoprotein-
expresszió
t, az ún. calcein-verapamil teszttel pedig a multidrog-rezisztencia
funkcióját
vizsgálták. A kezelésre adott választ 35 betegnél vizsgálták, a statisztikai elemzésnél Fischer-tesztet alkalmazva. A túlélési analízist a teljes beteganyagon elvégezték (
n
= 82, Log-rank-teszt).
Eredmények:
Az irodalmi adatokkal ellentétben a szerzők nem találtak korrelációt a vizsgált három multidrogrezisztencia-teszt között. A kezelésre adott választ vizsgálva 35 kezelt betegből 13 nonrespondernek, 22 pedig respondernek bizonyult. A P-glikoprotein-pozitív fenotípusú esetek (
n
= 9) 89%-ban klinikailag nonrespondernek bizonyultak (9 P-glikoprotein-pozitív krónikus lymphoid leukaemiás beteg közül 8 nonresponder volt), a P-glikoprotein-negatív esetek (
n
= 26) pedig 80%-ban jó terápiás választ mutattak (26 P-glikoprotein-negatív beteg közül 21 responder) (
p
< 0,001). Az átlagos várható túlélésben is jelentős, bár nem szignifikáns (
p
= 0,106) különbséget észleltek (84 vs 203 hónap).
Következtetések:
A vizsgált három laboratóriumi paraméter közül a P-glikoprotein sejtfelszíni jelenléte a leginkább releváns adat krónikus lymphoid leukaemiában a kemorezisztencia előjelzésére és a túléléssel kapcsolatban is prognosztikai faktorként értékelhető.
The first successful combined heart-kidney transplantation in Hungary
Authors: Benkő Tamás , Fehérvári Imre , Rácz Kristóf , Friedrich Orsolya , Gálfy Ildikó , Török Szilárd , Remport Ádám , Járay Jenő , Bodor Elek , Szabolcs Zoltán
Published: January 2008

Az irreverzíbilis szív- és veseelégtelenségben szenvedő betegeknél terápiás lehetőséget jelenthet az azonos donorból származó, egyidejű, kombinált szív- és veseátültetés. A módszerben rejlő számos előny ellenére csak kevés adat áll rendelkezésre a hosszú távú grafttúlélést és -mortalitást illetően. A szerzők közleményükben beszámolnak a Magyarországon először végzett kombinált szív-vese átültetés során szerzett tapasztalataikról, és irodalmi áttekintésben az eljárás jogosultságát elemzik. – A fiatal, urémiás férfi beteg ischaemiás eredetű dilatativ cardiomyopathiával szívtranszplantációs várólistán szerepelt. Testsúly, testméret, AB0-vércsoport alapján egyező, kadáver donorból eltávolított szívvel és vesével, negatív T-sejt-keresztpróbát követően, transzplantációt végeztek. Először a szív beültetése történt meg, majd a hemodinamikai paraméterek stabilizálódása után azonnal, az egyazon donorból eltávolított vesét transzplantálták. Mindkét műtét technikája megegyezett azzal, amit az izolált szív- vagy veseátültetés során alkalmaznak. A beültetett szív és vese működésének paraméterei gyors javulást mutattak. A beteg több mint egy évvel a kettős szervátültetést követően is kompenzált keringéssel és veseműködéssel, jó általános állapotban, aktív életet él. A bemutatott eset és az irodalmi adatok alapján kijelenthető, hogy a kombinált szív- és veseátültetés alternatívát jelent végállapotú szív- és vesebetegek kezelésében. A mindkét graftnál tapasztalt – az irodalomból ismert – alacsonyabb korai rejekciós arány az immunszuppressziós protokolljukat igazolja, illetve felveti a szervek egymásra gyakorolt protektív hatását is.
Modeling the Formation and Fate of Odorous Substances in Collection Systems
Authors: Vollertsen Jes , Nielsen Asbjørn Haaning , Jensen Henriette Stokbro , Hvitved‐Jacobsen Thorkild
Published: January 2008

A conceptual model that simulates the formation and fate of odorous substances in branched collection systems is presented. The model predicts the activity of the relevant biomass phenotypes under aerobic, anoxic, and anaerobic conditions in force mains and gravity sewers. The formation and fate of individual, malodorous substances in the bulk water, biofilms, and sediments are modeled. The release of odorous compounds from the bulk water to the sewer gas phase, their fate in the gas phase, and their subsequent release into the urban atmosphere is simulated. Examples of model application include the prediction of hydrogen sulfide and malodorous fermentation products from force mains and gravity sewers.
Performance of Wastewater Subsurface Drip Emitters at Low and Normal Pressure
Authors: Duan Xiaojing , Lesikar Bruce J. , Kenimer Ann L. , Arnold Michael A. , Persyn Russell A.
Published: January 2008

Subsurface drip distribution is an important on‐site wastewater treatment technique widely used with various soil types and restricted site conditions. This study evaluated the performance of five subsurface wastewater drip products under eight pressures, ranging from 0 to 310 kPa. Results showed that Netafim Bioline pressure‐compensating emitters (Netafim Irrigation Inc., Fresno, California) had an application uniformity coefficient of 95% and a coefficient of variance (C v) of 4.9%. The average uniformity coefficient of Geoflow Wasteflow products (Geoflow USA, Charlotte, North Carolina) was 94.4%, with a C v value of 6.8%. Flowrate and pressure relationships were developed by analyzing low and normal operational pressure ranges, and R‐square values ranged from 1.000 to 0.301. Geoflow pressure‐compensating products were non‐pressure‐compensating emitters under low pressure. Netafim pressure‐compensating emitters were partially pressure‐compensating under low pressures. In normal operational pressure ranges, both Geoflow and Netafim products were fully pressure‐compensating. Netafim pressure‐compensating products were characterized as pressure‐compensating over the full range of operational pressures.
Intramuscular versus Subcutaneous Administration of Iron Dextran in Suckling Piglets
Authors: Svoboda M. , Drábek J.
Published: January 2008

The aim of the study was to compare the development of red blood cell indices after subcutaneous versus intramuscular administration of iron dextran to suckling piglets during early postnatal period. The piglets in group I (n = 17) were injected subcutaneously (into groin) with 200 mg Fe3+ as iron dextran on day 3 of life. In group II (n = 16), the piglets received intramuscular injection (into gluteal muscles) of 200 mg Fe3+ as iron dextran on day 3 of life. In group III (n = 10), the piglets did not receive any iron till the age of 3 days. The blood was taken and analyzed (Hb, PCV, RBC, MCV, MCH, MCHC, Fe) on days 3, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35. Haematological indices of piglets in group III were characteristic for hypochromic anaemia. Anaemia in group III had a detrimental effect on the growth rate of piglets. The development of red blood cell indices and iron concentration in blood plasma in subcutaneously treated piglets did not differ significantly from that of intramuscularly-treated group. Both treatments prevented development of anaemia.
Effect of Low Environmental Temperature on Performance and Blood System in Broiler Chickens (Gallus domesticus)
Authors: Blahová J. , Dobšíková R. , Straková E. , Suchý P.
Published: January 2008

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of low environmental temperature on growth, feed conversion, performance and selected biochemical and haematological indicators in broiler chickens. The decrease in air temperature since the 22nd day of growth influenced significantly (p < 0.05) the level of total proteins, uric acid, phosphorus (in female broiler chickens), glucose (in male broiler chickens), haemoglobin (in female broiler chickens) and liver weight (in male broiler chickens). The temperature influenced significantly (p < 0.01) the level of triiodothyronine, haemoglobin (in male broiler chickens), haematocrit, abdominal fat content (in male broiler chickens), and heart weight too. The results have clearly confirmed that during growth, the decrease in environmental temperature (cold stress) negatively influenced some indices of performance and blood system in broiler chickens.
Comparison of Mortality Rates in Different Categories of Pigs and Cattle during Transport for Slaughter
Authors: Malena M. , Voslářová E. , Kozák A. , Bělobrádek P. , Bedáňová I. , Steinhauser L. , Večerek V.
Published: January 2008

The death of animals during transport for slaughter is a major factor indicating the level of welfare in transported animals. However, research data that report the level of animal welfare as reflected in transport-related mortality rates of individual animal species and categories are missing. The present study focused on losses of pigs and cattle in the period from 1997 to 2006. Transport-related mortality rates were recorded by species and categories of animals and also for the following travel distances: up to 50 km, 51-100 km, 101-200 km, 201-300 km, and over 300 km. Rates differed according to species and category. The highest mortality rates were found in young sows, sows, and boars (0.2562%) followed by fattened pigs (0.1075%), excluded dairy cows (0.0396%), calves (0.0269%), and fattened cattle (0.0069%). Significant differences were found among mortality rates (p < 0.05). The lowest mortality rates occurred with shorter travel distances (< 50 km and 51-100 km) when compared to long travel distances (101-200 km, 201-300 km and > 300 km), with a significant difference (p < 0.05) between short and long travel distances being found in fattened pigs, fattened cattle and dairy cows. Mortality rates in animals during transport for slaughter show young sows, sows, and boars to be the most susceptible to transport-related stress, followed by fattened pigs, dairy cows, and calves, whereas the highest resistance was observed in fattened cattle.
Quantifying Technical Efficiency of Paratransit Systems by Data Envelopment Analysis Method
Authors: Fu Liping , Yang Jingtao , Casello Jeff
Published: January 2008

This research evaluates efficiency levels of individual paratransit systems in Canada with the specific objective of identifying the most efficient agencies and the sources of their efficiency. Through identification of the most efficient systems along with the influencing factors, new service policies and management and operational strategies might be developed for improved resource utilization and quality of services. The research applies the data envelopment analysis methodology, which is a mathematical programming technique for determining the efficiency of individual systems as compared with their peers in multiple performance measures. Annual operating data from 2001 to 2003 as reported by the Canadian Urban Transit Association are used in this analysis. A bootstrap regression analysis is performed to identify the possible relationship between the efficiency of a paratransit system and measurable operating or managerial factors that affect the performance of paratransit systems. The regression analysis allows for the calculation of confidence intervals and bias for the efficiency scores.
Occupational risk factors for non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma: A population‐based case–control study in Northern Germany
Authors: Richardson David B. , Terschüren Claudia , Hoffmann Wolfgang
Published: January 2008

Objectives

To identify occupational factors associated with non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL).

Methods

A population‐based case–control study was conducted in which incident cases of high‐malignancy NHL (NHLhigh), low‐malignancy NHL (NHLlow), and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) were ascertained during the period 1986–1998 among men and women aged 15–75 years residing in six German counties; controls were drawn from population registries. Occupational histories were collected and agent‐specific exposures were estimated via a job‐exposure‐matrix. Odds ratios were estimated by conditional logistic regression.

Results

A total of 858 cases were included in these analyses. Agricultural workers [odds ratio (OR) = 2.67, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.99, 7.21) and farmers (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 0.98, 3.98] had elevated risk of NHLhigh. Risk of NHLlow was elevated among agricultural workers (OR = 2.46, 95% CI: 1.17, 5.16), and among blacksmiths, toolmakers, and machine tool operators (OR = 3.12, 95% CI: 1.31, 7.47). Workers in sales and construction had elevated risks of NHLhigh and NHLlow. Exposure to arsenic compounds, chlorophenols, diesel fuel, herbicides, nitrites/nitrates/nitrosamines, and organic dusts were associated with NHLhigh and NHLlow, while exhibiting little association with CLL. A positive monotonic trend in NHLlow risk across tertiles of cumulative diesel fuel exposure was observed [P‐value for test of linear trend (P) = 0.03].

Conclusions

These findings provide insights into several potential occupational risk factors for NHL and suggest some specific occupational agents for further investigation. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:258–268, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association between trypotphan hydroxylase 2, performance on a continuance performance test and response to methylphenidate in ADHD participants
Authors: Manor Iris , Laiba Efrat , Eisenberg Jacques , Meidad Sheera , Lerer Elad , Israel Salomon , Gritsenko Inga , Tyano Sam , Faraone Stephen V. , Ebstein Richard P.
Published: January 2008

The main objective of this study was to examine neuropsychological mechanisms mediating the association between tryptophan hydroxylase 2 (TPH2) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). A continuous performance test (T.O.V.A.) was administered to 344 participants diagnosed with DSM IV ADHD who were also genotyped for eight TPH2 intronic SNPs. Association between TPH2 (single SNPs and haplotypes), ADHD, and performance on the T.O.V.A. were tested using robust family‐based association tests as implemented in two statistical genetic programs: UNPHASED and PBAT. Association was only observed between an eight locus haplotype and ADHD DSM IV combined type III (global P = 0.036). Robust association was observed between TPH2 single SNPs (and haplotypes) and performance on the T.O.V.A., especially Errors of Omission (eight locus haplotypes, global P = 0.038). Significant associations were also observed between TPH2 and improvement (before–after scores) in T.O.V.A. Total Response Variability scores following acute methylphenidate challenge (eight locus haplotypes, global P = 0.009). Using the MFBAT program, significant multivariate association was observed between single SNPs and haplotypes [eight locus haplotypes and all four T.O.V.A. variables (PBAT‐GEE P = 0.013)]. The two most common TPH2 eight locus haplotypes were in a Yin Yang configuration and the Yang haplotype was the risk haplotype for both DSM IV ADHD and deficits in neuropsychological performance. The current investigation shows that risk for ADHD conferred by TPH2 variants is partially mediated by serotonergic mechanisms impacting some facets of executive function. Importantly, improvement in T.O.V.A. performance, especially on Response Time Variability, following methylphenidate was also associated with TPH2. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Putative role of the COMT gene polymorphism (Val158Met) on verbal working memory functioning in a healthy population
Authors: Aguilera M. , Barrantes‐Vidal N. , Arias B. , Moya J. , Villa H. , Ibáñez M.I. , Ruipérez M.A. , Ortet G. , Fañanás L.
Published: January 2008

Working memory has been described as a neurocognitive probe of prefrontal brain functioning. Genetic variability related with catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT) gene (Val158Met polymorphism) has received increasing attention as a possible modulator of working memory tasks in both schizophrenic patients and healthy subjects, although inconsistencies across studies have been found. This may be related to the existence of different working memory components, processes and modalities, which may have different sensitivities to subtle changes in dopamine levels and, therefore, the effect of the underlying COMT Val158Met genetic variability. To test this out a large sample of 521 healthy individuals from the general population were tested on the WCST and three working memory tasks that cover the assessment of verbal and spatial working modalities as well as different components and processes (Letter and Number Sequencing, CPT‐IP, Backwards Visual Span). All individuals were genotyped for the rs4680 (Val158Met) polymorphism at the COMT gene. Met carriers showed near‐significant better performance in the LNS compared with Val/Val individuals (F = 3.9, df = 1,P = 0.046). Moreover, the analysis for linear trend found that Met allele carriers showed significantly better performance than Val/Val individuals (B = 0.58P = 0.031), although evidence for a linear trend was not found. None of the WCST indices differed among genotypes. Consistent with the hypothesis that Val158Met polymorphism (COMT gene) might account for individual differences on dopamine‐dependent prefrontally related neurocognitive functions, the Letter‐Number Sequencing task, which requires not only maintenance but also active manipulation of information seemed to be more sensitive to the disadvantageous Val/Val genotype in a large non‐clinical sample. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of the G(‐656)A variant on CREB1 promoter activity in a glial cell line: Interactions with gonadal steroids and stress
Authors: Zubenko George S. , Hughes Hugh B.
Published: January 2008

Major depressive disorder (MDD) constitutes a major public health problem worldwide and affects women twice as frequently as men. Previous genetic studies have revealed significant evidence of linkage of the CREB1 region to mood disorders among women from families with recurrent, early‐onset MDD (RE‐MDD), a severe and familial subtype of MDD. A rare G to A transition at position ‐656 in the CREB1 promoter cosegregates with mood disorders in women from these families, implicating CREB1 as a sex‐related susceptibility gene for unipolar mood disorders. In the current study, the functional significance of the CREB1 promoter variant was determined using transfection experiments that employed constructs containing the wild‐type or variant CREB1 promoters coupled to a reporter gene. The results support the hypothesis that the A‐656 allele contributes to the development of MDD in women by selectively altering the activity of the CREB1 promoter in glial cells exposed to 17 β‐estradiol. Furthermore, the exaggeration of this effect during a simulated stress condition may be relevant to reported gene–environment interactions that contribute to the emergence of MDD in clinical populations. The results of in silico analysis revealed four putative binding sites for transcription factors that are affected by the G to A transition at position ‐656, of which CP2 best fit the experimental observations. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reinforcing network structure: Analysis of the phase morphology and mechanical properties of polymer blends [poly(methyl methacrylate)/poly(ϵ‐caprolactone)] with the addition of a third polymer [poly(vinyl chloride)]
Authors: Wu Tongfei , Yang Guisheng
Published: January 2008

A thin matrix network structure of poly (vinyl chloride), poly(ϵ‐caprolactone), and in situ formed poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) was synthesized. The structure was observed with scanning electron microscopy. The dissolution test suggested that a simple method to generate high rates of crosslinking at a lower temperature was obtained. The relationship of the phase morphology and mechanical properties of the blends was studied, and a reinforced material of PMMA was obtained. The obvious increase in the mechanical properties and the reinforcing effect were attributed to the formation of crosslinking and the network structure in the blend. The glass‐transition temperatures, obtained by DSC, suggested confined thermal behavior of PMMA chains restricted by a crosslinking system. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Paste extrusion of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) powders through tubular and annular dies at high reduction ratios
Authors: Patil Pramod D. , Isaias Ochoa , Stamboulides Christos , Hatzikiriakos Savvas G. , Polastri Fabio , Kapeliouchko Valerj
Published: January 2008

Paste extrusion experiments are reported for three different polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fine powders using both capillary and annular dies having a high reduction ratio (cross‐sectional area of reservoir to cross‐sectional area of die at the exit) varied from 1000 up to 4000. The extrusion pressure is reported as a function of the apparent shear rate for various resins and dies. The approximate mathematical model for paste extrusion through capillary dies developed by Ariawan et al. (Ariawan et al., Can Chem Eng J, 2002, 80, 1153) was used to describe the experimental data by best fitting the five material constants of the constitutive model. Using these constants, the model developed by Patil et al. (Patil et al., AIChE J., 2006, 52, 4028) was used to predict the extrusion pressure for all three resins in annular dies. The model predictions are found to be consistent with experimental results and the analogy between the rod and tube extrusion models is demonstrated. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation and characterization of pH‐sensitive hydrogel fibers based on hydrolyzed‐polyacrylonitrile/soy protein
Authors: Yu Liwei , Yan Dongyan , Sun Gang , Gu Lixia
Published: January 2008

Novel smart hydrogel fibers were prepared from a blend of hydrolyzed‐polyacrylonitrile (H‐PAN) and soy protein (SP). The dynamic and static elongation/contraction behaviors were studied. It was discovered that H‐PAN/SP hydrogel fibers consisted of a multiporous structure. With an increase in the content of SP, the hydrogel fibers exhibited excellent reversible pH‐sensitive behavior. When the weight ratio of H‐PAN to SP was 4 : 6, the hydrogel fibers showed the best response times at 1.35 s (elongation) and 0.63 s (contraction). Discontinuous volume phase transitions and hysteresis loops of the hydrogel fibers induced by changes in pH value were found. These results were found to be explicable in terms of the surface morphology and polyampholytic properties of H‐PAN/SP hydrogel fibers. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008