bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Susceptibilities of medaka (Oryzias latipes) cell lines to a betanodavirus
Authors: Adachi Kei , Sumiyoshi Kosuke , Ariyasu Ryo , Yamashita Kasumi , Zenke Kosuke , Okinaka Yasushi
Published: July 2010

Background

Betanodaviruses, members of the family Nodaviridae, have bipartite, positive-sense RNA genomes and are the causal agents of viral nervous necrosis in many marine fish species. Recently, the viruses were shown to infect a few freshwater fish species including a model fish medaka (Oryzias latipes). Although virological study using cultured medaka cells would provide a lot of insight into virus-fish interactions in molecular aspects, no such cells have yet been tested for virus susceptibility.

Results

We tested ten medaka cell lines for susceptibilities to redspotted grouper nervous necrosis virus (RGNNV). Although the viral coat protein was detected in all the cell lines inoculated, the levels of cytopathic effect development and viral propagation were quite different among the cell lines. Those levels were especially high in OLHNI-1 and OLHNI-2 cells, but were extremely low in OLME-104 cells. Some cell lines entered into antiviral state after RGNNV infections probably because of inducing an antiviral system. This is the first report to examine the susceptibilities of cultured medaka cells against a virus.

Conclusion

OLHNI-1 and OLHNI-2 cells are candidates of new standard cells for betanodavirus study because of their high susceptibilities to the virus and their several advantages as model fish cells.
Effect of the feeding system on the fatty acid composition, expression of the Δ9-desaturase, Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Alpha, Gamma, and Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein 1 genes in the semitendinous muscle of light lambs of the Rasa Aragonesa breed
Authors: Dervishi Elda , Serrano Carmen , Joy Margalida , Serrano Malena , Rodellar Clementina , Calvo Jorge H
Published: July 2010

Background

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs) are receiving increasing attention because of their beneficial effects on human health, with milk and meat products derived from ruminants as important sources of CLA in the human diet. SCD gene is responsible for some of the variation in CLA concentration in adipose tissues, and PPARγ, PPARα and SREBP1 genes are regulator of SCD gene. The aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of the feeding system on fatty acid composition, CLA content and relative gene expression of Δ9-desaturase (SCD), Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ), Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Alpha, (PPARα) and Sterol Regulatory Element Binding Protein (SREBP1) in Rasa Aragonesa light lambs in semitendinous muscle. Forty-four single-born male lambs were used to evaluate the effect of the feeding system, varying on an intensity gradient according to the use of concentrates: 1. grazing alfalfa, 2. grazing alfalfa with a supplement for lambs, 3. indoor lambs with grazing ewes and 4. drylot.

Results

Both grazing systems resulted in a higher concentration of vaccenic acid (VA), CLA, CLA/VA acid ratio, and a lower oleic content, oleic acid (C18:1)/stearic acid (C18:0) ratio, PUFA n-6/n-3 ratio and SCD expression compared to other diets. In addition feeding system affected the fatty acid composition and SCD expression, possibly due to CLA concentration or the PUFA n-6/n-3 ratio. Both expression of the SCD gene and the feeding system were important factors affecting CLA concentration in the animal's semitendinous muscle. PPARγ, PPARα and SREBP1 expression seemed to be unaffected by the feeding system. Although no significant results were found, PPARγ, PPARα and SREBP1 showed similar expression pattern as SCD. Moreover, the correlation results between SCD expression and PPARγ (p < 0.01), as well as SREBP1 (p < 0.01) expression, may suggest that these genes were affecting SCD expression in a different way.

Conclusions

The data indicated that the feeding system is the main factor affecting the fatty acid composition and SCD gene expression, which is also affected by CLA and possibly by n-6/n-3 PUFAs.
Experiences of stigma in healthcare settings among adults living with HIV in the Islamic Republic of Iran
Authors: Rahmati‐Najarkolaei Fatemeh , Niknami Shamsaddin , Aminshokravi Farkhondeh , Bazargan Mohsen , Ahmadi Fazlollah , Hadjizadeh Ebrahim , Tavafian Sedigheh S
Published: July 2010

Background

People living with HIV (PLHIV) sometimes experience discrimination. There is little understanding of the causes, forms and consequences of this stigma in Islamic countries. This qualitative study explored perceptions and experiences of PLHIV regarding both the quality of healthcare and the attitudes and behaviours of their healthcare providers in the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Methods

In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were held with a purposively selected group of 69 PLHIV recruited from two HIV care clinics in Tehran. Data were analyzed using the content analysis approach.

Results and discussion

Nearly all participants reported experiencing stigma and discrimination by their healthcare providers in a variety of contexts. Participants perceived that their healthcare providers' fear of being infected with HIV, coupled with religious and negative value‐based assumptions about PLHIV, led to high levels of stigma. Participants mentioned at least four major forms of stigma: (1) refusal of care; (2) sub‐optimal care; (3) excessive precautions and physical distancing; and (4) humiliation and blaming. The participants' healthcare‐seeking behavioural reactions to perceived stigma and discrimination included avoiding or delaying seeking care, not disclosing HIV status when seeking healthcare, and using spiritual healing. In addition, emotional responses to perceived acts of stigma included feeling undeserving of care, diminished motivation to stay healthy, feeling angry and vengeful, and experiencing emotional stress.

Conclusions

While previous studies demonstrate that most Iranian healthcare providers report fairly positive attitudes towards PLHIV, our participants' experiences tell a different story. Therefore, it is imperative to engage both healthcare providers and PLHIV in designing interventions targeting stigma in healthcare settings. Additionally, specialized training programmes in universal precautions for health providers will lead to stigma reduction. National policies to strengthen medical training and to provide funding for stigma‐reduction programming are strongly recommended. Investigating Islamic literature and instruction, as well as requesting official public statements from religious leaders regarding stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings, should be used in educational intervention programmes targeting healthcare providers. Finally, further studies are needed to investigate the role of the physician and religion in the local context.
Alterations in the self-renewal and differentiation ability of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells in a mouse model of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Mohanty Sindhu T , Kottam Lucksy , Gambardella Alessandra , Nicklin Martin J , Coulton Les , Hughes David , Wilson Anthony G , Croucher Peter I , Bellantuono Ilaria
Published: July 2010

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease primarily involving the synovium. Evidence in recent years has suggested that the bone marrow (BM) may be involved, and may even be the initiating site of the disease. Abnormalities in haemopoietic stem cells' (HSC) survival, proliferation and aging have been described in patients affected by RA and ascribed to abnormal support by the BM microenvironment. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and their progeny constitute important components of the BM niche. In this study we test the hypothesis that the onset of inflammatory arthritis is associated with altered self-renewal and differentiation of bone marrow MSC, which alters the composition of the BM microenvironment.

Methods

We have used Balb/C Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist knock-out mice, which spontaneously develop RA-like disease in 100% of mice by 20 weeks of age to determine the number of mesenchymal progenitors and their differentiated progeny before, at the start and with progression of the disease.

Results

We showed a decrease in the number of mesenchymal progenitors with adipogenic potential and decreased bone marrow adipogenesis before disease onset. This is associated with a decrease in osteoclastogenesis. Moreover, at the onset of disease a significant increase in all mesenchymal progenitors is observed together with a block in their differentiation to osteoblasts. This is associated with accelerated bone loss.

Conclusions

Significant changes occur in the BM niche with the establishment and progression of RA-like disease. Those changes may be responsible for aspects of the disease, including the advance of osteoporosis. An understanding of the molecular mechanisms leading to those changes may lead to new strategies for therapeutic intervention.
Saturated- and n-6 Polyunsaturated-Fat Diets Each Induce Ceramide Accumulation in Mouse Skeletal Muscle: Reversal and Improvement of Glucose Tolerance by Lipid Metabolism Inhibitors
Authors: Frangioudakis G. , Garrard J. , Raddatz K. , Nadler J. L. , Mitchell T. W. , Schmitz-Peiffer C.
Published: July 2010

Lipid-induced insulin resistance is associated with intracellular accumulation of inhibitory intermediates depending on the prevalent fatty acid (FA) species. In cultured myotubes, ceramide and phosphatidic acid (PA) mediate the effects of the saturated FA palmitate and the unsaturated FA linoleate, respectively. We hypothesized that myriocin (MYR), an inhibitor of de novo ceramide synthesis, would protect against glucose intolerance in saturated fat-fed mice, while lisofylline (LSF), a functional inhibitor of PA synthesis, would protect unsaturated fat-fed mice. Mice were fed diets enriched in saturated fat, n-6 polyunsaturated fat, or chow for 6 wk. Saline, LSF (25 mg/kg · d), or MYR (0.3 mg/kg · d) were administered by mini-pumps in the final 4 wk. Glucose homeostasis was examined by glucose tolerance test. Muscle ceramide and PA were analyzed by mass spectrometry. Expression of LASS isoforms (ceramide synthases) was evaluated by immunoblotting. Both saturated and polyunsaturated fat diets increased muscle ceramide and induced glucose intolerance. MYR and LSF reduced ceramide levels in saturated and unsaturated fat-fed mice. Both inhibitors also improved glucose tolerance in unsaturated fat-fed mice, but only LSF was effective in saturated fat-fed mice. The discrepancy between ceramide and glucose tolerance suggests these improvements may not be related directly to changes in muscle ceramide and may involve other insulin-responsive tissues. Changes in the expression of LASS1 were, however, inversely correlated with alterations in glucose tolerance. The demonstration that LSF can ameliorate glucose intolerance in vivo independent of the dietary FA type indicates it may be a novel intervention for the treatment of insulin resistance.
Regulation of Glucocorticoid Receptor Transcription and Nuclear Translocation during Single and Repeated Immobilization Stress
Authors: Noguchi Tohru , Makino Shinya , Matsumoto Reiko , Nakayama Shuichi , Nishiyama Mitsuru , Terada Yoshio , Hashimoto Kozo
Published: July 2010

We have previously reported reduced glucocorticoid receptor (GR) mRNA levels in the hippocampus and hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) during repeated immobilization, which is potentially associated with persistent activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis. We used in situ hybridization and Western blot to examine the transcriptional regulation of the GR gene, GR nuclear translocation, and expression of cytosolic heat shock protein 90 (hsp90), a chaperone protein essential for GR nuclear translocation, in the hippocampus, PVN, and anterior pituitary (AP) during single immobilization (sIMO) and the final immobilization on d 7 after daily IMO for 6 days (rIMO). As with GR mRNA, GR heteronuclear RNA levels decreased in the hippocampus and PVN and increased in the AP during sIMO and rIMO, indicating that the GR mRNA levels in these regions were regulated at the transcriptional level. In both sIMO and rIMO, nuclear GR levels were significantly increased in the hippocampus, medial basal hypothalamus (MBH), and AP. However, GR nuclear translocation was reduced in the hippocampus, unchanged in the MBH, and enhanced in the AP during rIMO, as compared with sIMO. Cytosolic hsp90 expression was unchanged in the hippocampus and MBH, whereas it significantly increased in the AP at 30 min during rIMO but not during sIMO. These results suggest that the site-specific changes in GR nuclear translocation during sIMO vs. rIMO are partially linked to hsp90 responses to immobilization. The reduced nuclear translocation of GR in the hippocampus during rIMO may reflect decreased glucocorticoid-mediated negative feedback on the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical axis.
Effect of a Single Oral Dose of 600,000 IU of Cholecalciferol on Serum Calciotropic Hormones in Young Subjects with Vitamin D Deficiency: A Prospective Intervention Study
Authors: Cipriani Cristiana , Romagnoli Elisabetta , Scillitani Alfredo , Chiodini Iacopo , Clerico Rita , Carnevale Vincenzo , Mascia Maria Lucia , Battista Claudia , Viti Raffaella , Pileri Mauro , Eller-Vainicher Cristina , Minisola Salvatore
Published: July 2010

Context: Effects of vitamin D repletion in young people with low vitamin D status have not been investigated so far.

Objective: We evaluated the effect of a single massive dose of cholecalciferol on calcium metabolism at 3, 15, and 30 d, compared to baseline.

Design and Setting: We conducted a prospective intervention study in an ambulatory care setting.

Participants: Forty-eight young subjects with vitamin D deficiency participated in the study.

Intervention: A single oral dose of 600,000 IU of cholecalciferol was administered to each subject.

Main Outcome Measures: We evaluated serum changes of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D], 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, calcium, and PTH induced by a single load of cholecalciferol.

Results: The 25(OH)D level was 15.8 ± 6.5 ng/ml at baseline and became 77.2 ± 30.5 ng/ml at 3 d (P < 0.001) and 62.4 ± 26.1 ng/ml at 30 d (P < 0.001). PTH levels concomitantly decreased from 53.0 ± 20.1 to 38.6 ± 17.2 pg/ml at 3 d and to 43.4 ± 14.0 pg/ml at 30 d (P < 0.001 for both). The trends were maintained in a subgroup followed up to 90 d (P < 0.001). Mean serum Ca and P significantly increased compared to baseline, whereas serum Mg decreased at 3 d. 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D significantly increased from 46.8 ± 18.9 to 97.8 ± 38.3 pg/ml at 3 d (P < 0.001) and to 59.5 ± 27.3 pg/ml at 60 d (P < 0.05).

Conclusions: A single oral dose of 600,000 IU of cholecalciferol rapidly enhances 25(OH)D and reduces PTH in young people with vitamin D deficiency.
Minireview: Thyroid Hormone Transporters: The Knowns and the Unknowns
Authors: Visser W. Edward , Friesema Edith C. H. , Visser Theo J.
Published: July 2010

The effects of thyroid hormone (TH) on development and metabolism are exerted at the cellular level. Metabolism and action of TH take place intracellularly, which require transport of the hormone across the plasma membrane. This process is mediated by TH transporter proteins. Many TH transporters have been identified at the molecular level, although a few are classified as specific TH transporters, including monocarboxylate transporter (MCT)8, MCT10, and organic anion-transporting polypeptide 1C1. The importance of TH transporters for physiology has been illustrated dramatically by the causative role of MCT8 mutations in males with psychomotor retardation and abnormal serum TH concentrations. Although Mct8 knockout animals have provided insight in the mechanisms underlying parts of the endocrine phenotype, they lack obvious neurological abnormalities. Thus, the pathogenesis of the neurological abnormalities in males with MCT8 mutations is not fully understood. The prospects of identifying other transporters and transporter-based syndromes promise an exciting future in the TH transporter field.
Implementing Neonatal Screening for Haemoglobinopathies in the Netherlands
Authors: Bouva Marelle J , Mohrmann Karin , Brinkman Henri B J M , Kemper-Proper Evelien A , Elvers Bert , Loeber J Gerard , Verheul Francesco E A M , Giordano Piero C
Published: July 2010

Background

The birth prevalence of severe haemoglobinopathies such as sickle cell disease (SCD) in the Netherlands has been estimated to be at least 50 newborns per year. Neonatal screening for SCD was added to the Dutch screening programme in January 2007. We here evaluated three high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) systems for application in neonatal screening for haemoglobinopathies, and present the results of a subsequent pilot screening programme.

Methods

The Variant NewBorn Screening (Vnbs) HPLC system (Bio-Rad) was validated by analysing 131 blood samples and blood mixtures. Subsequently, the performance of the G7 (Tosoh BioScience) and Ultra (Primus Corporation) was compared with the Vnbs. The three HPLC analysers were tested in a pilot screening programme on 21,969 dried blood spot samples from the routine Dutch neonatal screening programme.

Results

The pilot screening resulted in 188 abnormal patterns. The three HPLC devices presented comparable within-and between-run precision and detected the abnormal samples similarly. The high throughput, sampling systems, presentation of results, and integration of the chromatograms, however, were different.

Conclusion

All three analysers detected the same abnormal haemoglobins satisfactorily, but integrated the chromatograms with variable imprecision. Comparison of the results suggested that the Bio-Rad Vnbs was the preferred system. However, software adjustments were required to improve the diagnostic potential of this device for screening for β- and α-thalassaemia.
Approximate Dynamic Programming Captures Fleet Operations for Schneider National
Authors: Simão Hugo P. , George Abraham , Powell Warren B. , Gifford Ted , Nienow John , Day Jeff
Published: July 2010

Schneider National needed a simulation model that would capture the dynamics of its fleet of over 6,000 long-haul drivers to determine where the company should hire new drivers, estimate the impact of changes in work rules, find the best way to manage Canadian drivers, and experiment with new ways to get drivers home. It needed a model that could perform as well as its experienced team of dispatchers and fleet managers. In developing our model, we had to simulate drivers and loads at a high level of detail, capturing both complex dynamics and multiple forms of uncertainty. We used approximate dynamic programming to produce realistic, high-quality decisions that capture the ability of dispatchers to anticipate the future impact of decisions. The resulting model closely calibrated against Schneider's historical performance, giving the company the confidence to base major policy decisions on studies performed using the model. These policy decisions helped Schneider to avoid costs of $30 million by identifying problems with a new driver-management policy, achieve annual savings of $5 million by identifying the best driver domiciles, reduce the number of late deliveries by more than 50 percent by analyzing service commitment policies, and save $3.8 million annually by reducing training expenses for new border-crossing regulations.
Relational Outcomes of Multicommunicating: Integrating Incivility and Social Exchange Perspectives
Authors: Cameron Ann-Frances , Webster Jane
Published: July 2010

New communication technologies, increased virtual communication, and the intense pressure for managers and employees to be continually available and “online” are giving rise to a new and emerging workplace behavior: multicommunicating (MC), or the managing of multiple conversations at the same time. Whereas researchers in psychology and management have studied the phenomenon of multitasking, few have examined multitasking where one juggles not just multiple tasks but multiple people and often multiple media at the same time. We use the spiral theory of incivility to investigate the relational outcomes of MC from the perspective of the communication partners being juggled. Our research extends this theory by further exploring the starting point of the spiral and—through the application of social exchange theory—suggesting several antecedents to incivility that are important in the context of MC. Employing a survey methodology, both qualitative and quantitative data were collected to test the theory (n = 324) and were analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis and structural equation modeling. The results suggest several factors influencing the partner's perceptions of focal individual incivility during MC, including who initiates the conversation, whether one of the conversations being juggled is useful to the other conversation, the focal individual's performance during the conversation, whether the focal individual is more accessible to the partner, and whether the partner is certain of or only suspects the existence of the other conversation. Further, partners' perceptions of these factors are influenced by their individual orientations toward MC. Finally, the partners' perceptions of the focal individual's incivility influence their interpersonal trust in the focal individual.
Effects of self‐categorization on orientation towards health
Authors: Tarrant Mark , Butler Kathyrn
Published: July 2010

Two studies examined the effects of self‐categorization on people's orientation towards health. In Study 1, making salient a social identity which did not advocate a positive orientation towards health led group members to report weaker intentions to engage in health promotion behaviours in the future than did making salient a social identity which had a more positive health orientation. Study 2 showed that orientation towards health is influenced by the intergroup comparative context in which social identity is made salient. When social identity was made salient via an upward intergroup social comparison, participants' evaluation of the in‐group's health was more negative, but their commitment to performing health promotion behaviours in the future was stronger, compared to when that same identity was made salient via a downward intergroup comparison. The findings are discussed in relation to the emerging debate concerning the impact of social group processes on health.
Better than Men?: Sex and the Therapy/Enhancement Distinction
Authors: Sparrow Robert
Published: July 2010

The normative significance of the distinction between therapy and enhancement has come under sustained philosophical attack in recent discussions of the ethics of shaping future persons by means of advanced genetic technologies. Giving up the idea that whether a condition is normal or not should play a crucial role in assessing the ethics of genetic interventions has unrecognized and strongly counterintuitive implications when it comes to selecting what sort of children should be brought into the world. According to standard philosophical accounts of the factors one should take into account when making such decisions, women are “better than men.” Given the biological differences between the sexes, then, if the only concern is the capacities of an embryo rather than its capacities relative to some normatively significant baseline, there is compelling reason to choose only female embryos. In order to avoid this radical and counterintuitive conclusion, one must embrace the idea that both sexes are normal. The strength of the prima facie reasons to select or reject embryos depends on their sex, which is to say that it depends on the normal capacities of their sex. The therapy/enhancement distinction therefore plays a crucial role in determining the ethics of interventions into the genetics of future generations.
What’s the Harm?: An Evolutionary Theoretical Critique of the Precautionary Principle
Authors: Powell Russell
Published: July 2010

The precautionary principle has been hailed as the new paradigm for contending with health and environmental risk in the context of emerging technologies. In the philosophical literature, however, it has been met with skepticism. Weaker conceptions of the precautionary principle are accused of being trivial or vacuous, while stronger versions are criticized for issuing irrationally restrictive or even contradictory prescriptions. Although the precautionary approach suffers from a number of conceptual defects, it nonetheless could be justified in certain biological domains if it were the case that evolution tended to produce optimal, delicately balanced equilibria that generally coincided with what we value. This justification fails, however, since it is premised on assumptions about the causal structure of the world that do not accord with contemporary evolutionary theory. This does not exclude the possibility that the precautionary principle may be warranted for other reasons or in certain settings, but it does remove a potentially powerful rationalization, one that has motivated much of the scholarship, law, and policy that is inclined toward the precautionary approach.
“Stealing Steps” and Signature Moves: Embodied Theories of Dance as Intellectual Property
Authors: Kraut Anthea
Published: July 2010

This essay asks how notions of intellectual property played out among African American vernacular-dance communities during the first half of the twentieth century, when copyright law did not extend to choreography and when racial segregation governed the dance world. On the one hand, tap and jazz dancers’ liberal borrowing of steps from one another defied the logic of US copyright law, with its prohibition against the unauthorized reproduction of another’s original work; but on the other, the extra-legal measures that performers developed to protect their moves bore notable affinities to Western constructions of intellectual property. The examples provided by these dancers also prompt a reconsideration of the fit between copyright law and dance more generally.
Walter Murch interviewed by Gustavo Costantini
Authors: Costantini Gustavo
Published: July 2010

In this interview with the Oscar-winning editor and sound designer Walter Murch, composer, academic and critic Gustavo Costantini explores Murch's ways of working with sound and image and some of his conceptual theories on film-making.
The chromosome peripheral proteins play an active role in chromosome dynamics
Authors: Matsunaga Sachihiro , Fukui Kiichi
Published: July 2010

The chromosome periphery is a chromosomal structure that covers the surface of mitotic chromosomes. The structure and function of the chromosome periphery has been poorly understood since its first description in 1882. It has, however, been proposed to be an insulator or barrier to protect chromosomes from subcellular substances and to act as a carrier of nuclear and nucleolar components to direct their equal distribution to daughter cells because most chromosome peripheral proteins (CPPs) are derived from the nucleolus or nucleus. Until now, more than 30 CPPs were identified in mammalians. Recent immunostaining analyses of CPPs have revealed that the chromosome periphery covers the centromeric region of mitotic chromosomes in addition to telomeres and regions between two sister chromatids. Knockdown analyses of CPPs using RNAi have revealed functions in chromosome dynamics, including cohesion of sister chromatids, kinetochore-microtubule attachments, spindle assembly and chromosome segregation. Because most CPPs are involved in various subcellular events in the nucleolus or nuclear at interphase, a temporal and spatial-specific knockdown method of CPPs in the chromosome periphery will be useful to understand the function of chromosome periphery in cell division.
Strongly real elements of orthogonal groups in even characteristic
Authors: Rämö Johanna
Published: July 2010

Suppose that both
Association of HSD3B1 and HSD3B2 gene polymorphisms with essential hypertension, aldosterone level, and left ventricular structure
Authors: Shimodaira Masanori , Nakayama Tomohiro , Sato Naoyuki , Aoi Noriko , Sato Mikano , Izumi Yoichi , Soma Masayoshi , Matsumoto Koichi
Published: July 2010

Background

HSD3B1 and HSD3B2 are crucial enzymes for the synthesis of hormonal steroids, including aldosterone. Therefore,HSD3Bgene variations could possibly influence blood pressure (BP) by affecting the aldosterone level.

Methods

We performed a haplotype- and diplotype-based case–control study to investigate the association between theHSD3Bgene variations and essential hypertension (EH), aldosterone level, and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). A total of 275 EH patients and 286 controls were genotyped for four SNPs of theHSD3B1gene (rs3765945, rs3088283, rs6203, and rs1047303) and for two SNPs of theHSD3B2gene (rs2854964 and rs1819698). Aldosterone and LVH were investigated in 240 and 110 subjects respectively.

Results

Significant differences were noted for the total and the male subject groups for the recessive model (CC versus TC+TT) of rs6203 between the controls and EH patients (P=0.030 andP=0.008 respectively). The frequency of the T-C haplotype established by rs3088283-rs1047303 was significantly higher for EH patients compared with the controls (P=0.014). Even though the polymorphism ofHSB3B1was not associated with LVH, the diplotype established by rs3088283-rs1047303 in the total subject group, along with the systolic BP, diastolic BP, and aldosterone level were significantly higher for those subjects who had the T-C haplotype versus those who did not (P=0.025,P=0.014, andP=0.006 respectively).

Conclusion

rs6203 and rs1047303 in theHSD3B1gene are useful genetic markers for EH, while polymorphisms ofHSD3B1are associated with the BP and aldosterone level.
Thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy; quality of life follow-up of patients randomized to treatment with antithyroid drugs or radioiodine
Authors: Abraham-Nordling Mirna , Wallin Göran , Träisk Frank , Berg Gertrud , Calissendorff Jan , Hallengren Bengt , Hedner Pavo , Lantz Mikael , Nyström Ernst , Åsman Peter , Lundell Göran , Törring Ove , _ _
Published: July 2010

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate quality of life (QoL) in patients with Graves' disease treated with radioiodine or antithyroid drugs.

Design and methods

The design of the study consists of an open, prospective, randomized multicenter trial between radioiodine and medical treatment. A total of 308 patients were included in the study group: 145 patients in the medical group and 163 patients in the radioiodine group. QoL was measured with a 36-item Short Form Health Status Survey questionnaire (SF-36) at six time points during the 48-month study period.

Results

Patient who developed or got worse of thyroid-associated ophthalmopathy (TAO) at any time point during the 4-year study period (TAO group) had lower QoL when no respect was paid to the mode of treatment.

TAO occurred in 75 patients who had radioiodine treatment at some time point during the study period as compared with TAO in 40 medically treated patients (P<0.0009).

Comparisons between the group of patients who have had TAO versus the group without TAO, in relation to treatments and time, showed significantly decreased QoL scores for the TAO groups at several time points during the study.

In patients without TAO, there were no differences in QoL related to mode of treatment.

Conclusions

The QoL in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy was similar in radioiodine and medically treated patients, but patients who developed or had worsening of TAO had decreased QoL independent of mode of treatment. Furthermore, patients with TAO recovered physically within 1 year but it took twice as long for them to recover mentally.
Occupational Risks and Challenges of Seafaring
Authors: Oldenburg Marcus , Baur Xaver , Schlaich Clara
Published: July 2010

Occupational Risks and Challenges of Seafaring: Marcus Oldenburg, et al. Department of Maritime Medicine, Institute for Occupational and Maritime Medicine, Germany—Seafarers are exposed to a high diversity of occupational health hazards onboard ships.

Objective

The aim of this article is to present a survey of the current, most important hazards in seafaring including recommendations on measures how to deal with these problems.

Methods

The review is based on maritime expert opinions as well a PubMed analysis related to the occupational risks of seafaring.

Results

Despite recent advances in injury prevention, accidents due to harmful working and living conditions at sea and of non‐observance of safety rules remain a main cause of injury and death. Mortality in seafaring from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is mainly caused by increased risks and impaired treatment options of CVD at sea. Further, shipboard stress and high demand may lead to fatigue and isolation which have an impact on the health of onboard seafarers. Communicable diseases in seafaring remain an occupational problem. Exposures to hazardous substances and UV‐light are important health risks onboard ships. Because of harsh working conditions onboard including environmental conditions, sufficient recreational activities are needed for the seafarers' compensation both onboard and ashore. However, in reality there is often a lack of leisure time possibilities.

Discussion

Seafaring is still an occupation with specific work‐related risks. Thus, a further reduction of occupational hazards aboard ships is needed and poses a challenge for maritime health specialists and stakeholders. Nowadays, maritime medicine encompasses a broad field of workplaces with different job‐related challenges.
Eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Lippai Dóra , Tulassay Zsolt
Published: July 2010

Az eosinophil oesophagitis (EO) olyan, többnyire orális antigénmediált, idült, reverzíbilis, eosinophil granulocyták okozta nyelőcsőgyulladás, amely dysphagiához, fokozódó nyelőcsőszűkülethez és falatelakadáshoz vezethet. A tünetek gyakran emlékeztetnek a gastrooesophagealis refluxbetegségre (GORB). A betegség főként a fiatal férfiakat érinti, gyakran társul atópiás kórképekkel és orális antigénekkel szembeni érzékenységgel. Az EO kialakulásában szerepe van a környezeti (például: ételallergének) és genetikai tényezőknek (például: eotaxin-3) egyaránt. A megfelelő ételallergének kiküszöbölése, illetve gyulladáscsökkentő kezelés mellett a tünetek és a szövettani kép reverzíbilisek. A remisszió fenntartására gyakran hosszan tartó kezelés szükséges. A panaszt okozó szűkületek ballonos tágítást igényelnek.
Interventional radiological treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Doros Attila
Published: July 2010

A hepatocellularis carcinoma intervenciós radiológiai kezelésében forradalmi változások zajlanak le. Az alkoholos infiltrációt részben felváltják a hőablatiós kezelések, elsősorban a rádiófrekvenciás ablatio. Fontos pont a hűtött végű elektródák, illetve a volumetriásan tervezett kezelések megjelenése. Az embolisatiós beavatkozások területén a precízebb és jobban tervezhető embolisatiót lehetővé tevő embolisatiós gyöngyök megjelenése érdemel említést. Az embolisatiós gyöngyök speciális változata képes a felületén meghatározott mennyiségű kemoterápiás anyagot megkötni, amelyet az embolisatio megtörténte után koncentráltan ad le a daganaton belül. Ígéretes a radioembolisatiós kezelés, amely perifériásabb szintű embolisatiót követően lokális sugárterápiás hatást vált ki a daganatszövetre. Az ablatiós és embolisatiós kezelések szerepe jelentős a májátültetésre váró tumoros betegek „downstaging” és progressziót gátló ellátásában. A fenti módszerek többségének helye a terápiás protokollokban, főképp a világszerte használt „barcelonai” (BCLC) táblázatban megalapozott. Izgalmas kutatási terület a fenti kezelési módszerek kombinációja egymással, sebészi reszekcióval, illetve a sorafenibkezeléssel.
Inter-relação de variáveis demográficas, terapêutica insulínica e controle glicêmico em pacientes com diabetes mellitus do tipo 1 atendidos em um hospital universitário
Authors: Silva Júnior Gildásio R. da , Fuks Anna Gabriela , Cunha Edna Ferreira da , Clemente Eliete Leão S. , Gomes Marília de Brito
Published: July 2010

Com o objetivo de avaliar a inter-relação das variáveis demográficas, terapêutica insulínica e controle glicêmico no diabetes do tipo 1 (DM1), foram estudados 86 pacientes (44 F / 42 M), de 21,8±10 anos, 10 (11,6%) pré-púberes, 22 (25,6%) púberes e 54 (62,8%) adultos, com duração do DM de 8,6±7,1 ano e idade do diagnóstico de 13,2±8,5 anos, acompanhados durante o ano de 1997. O número de consultas anuais foi de 3,6±2,2, sem associação com sexo, raça e estágio de Tanner. A dose de insulina total foi de 0,9±0,4 U/kg/dia sendo que 72 deles (83,7%) utilizavam duas injeções por dia; 39 (45,3%) utilizavam insulina de ação rápida dos quais 36 (92,3%) em combinação com insulina de ação intermediária matinal. Na análise de regressão múltipla apenas a HbA1C influenciou a dose de insulina (r=0,45; r²=0,21; p<0,001). A HbA1C foi de 8,4±1,9%, sendo os maiores níveis observados no estágio 4, em comparação aos estágios 1, 2, 3 e 5 de Tanner, respectivamente (10,5±2,4 vs 7,6±1,4 vs 8,9±2,1 vs vs 8,3±2,4 vs 8,2±1,8%; p= 0,02). As adolescentes apresentaram maior HbA1C e IMC que os adolescentes: 10,5±2,5 vs 8,3±2,0% (p= 0,02) e 19,4±1,9 vs 18,3±2,2 kg/m² (p= 0,04), respectivamente. O controle glicêmico foi considerado bom em 50% e péssimo em 31,4% dos pacientes. Concluímos que na amostra estudada houve uma piora do controle glicêmico no estágio final da puberdade, independente do número de consultas e das variáveis demográficas analisadas, e que o elevado número de pacientes com controle péssimo deverá nortear mudanças das estratégias terapêuticas.
Captação diferenciada de meta-iodobenzilgnanidina em paciente com feocromocitoma bilateral e neoplasm endócrina múltipla tipo 2A
Authors: Oliveira Marcus M.S. , Soares Débora V. , Violante Alice H.D. , Gadelha Mônica R. , Corbo Rossana , Dock Dione C.A. , Vaisman Mário
Published: July 2010

O feocromocitoma que ocorre na síndrome de Neoplasia endócrina múltipla tipo 2A (NEM-2A), também conhecida como síndrome de Sipple, é muitas vezes bilateral e multicêntrico. O uso da cintilografia com meta-iodobenzilguanidina (M-IBG) é um método seguro e eficaz para o diagnóstico de localização do feocromocitoma, particularmente nos casos de sítio extra-adrenal, recorrência pós-operatória ou doença metastática maligna. Apresentamos o caso de uma paciente feminina de 26 anos com NEM-2A e feocromocitoma adrenal bilateral (visualizado na Ressonância Nuclear Magnética e confirmado pelo exame histopatológico), cuja cintilografia com I131 M-IBG revelou marcada diferença de captação entre as adrenais (mínima à direita e mais intensa à esquerda). Relevante no caso, foi o fato do tumor à direita ser muito maior (5,5 cm de diâmetro) do que à esquerda (3,0 cm de diâmetro), funcionalmente iguais (caracterizado por complicações pré-operatórias quando da manipulação cirúrgica) e histopatologicamente similares. Concluímos que nos casos de NEM-2A, a captação negativa ou discreta de M-IBG não exclui a necessidade de exploração cirúrgica bilateral das adrenais.
Prática de atividade física por adolescentes de Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
Authors: Freitas Roberto Wagner Júnior Freire de , Silva Ana Roberta Vilarouca da , Araújo Márcio Flávio Moura de , Marinho Niciane Bandeira Pessoa , Damasceno Marta Maria Coelho , Oliveira Marcos Renato de
Published: July 2010

O objetivo da pesquisa foi conhecer os hábitos cotidianos, relacionados à prática de atividade física, em 307 estudantes entre 12 e 17 anos, de seis escolas privadas, de Fortaleza - Brasil, entre os meses de março e junho de 2007. Foi aplicado um formulário para registrar sedentarismo, IMC, pressão arterial e glicemia. Para análise das proporções foi utilizado o teste do Qui-quadrado. Cerca de 68% dos jovens eram inativos. O sedentarismo foi maior nos pesquisados do sexo feminino (p=0, 000) e naqueles com excesso de peso (p=0,001). Entre os adolescentes ativos o exercício físico mais praticado era o futebol (42%) e a musculação (19%). A educação em saúde nas escolas pode auxiliar no combate desse sedentarismo juvenil.
Ambiente do Centro Cirúrgico e os elementos que o integram: implicações para os cuidados de enfermagem
Authors: Silva Denise Conceição , Alvim Neide Aparecida Titonelli
Published: July 2010

Pesquisa qualitativa que objetivou caracterizar os elementos que integram o ambiente do Centro Cirúrgico e analisar suas implicações para a dinâmica de cuidar e de cuidados de enfermagem. Ancorou-se nos princípios da Teoria Ambientalista. Participaram 12 enfermeiras do centro cirúrgico de um Hospital Universitário do Rio de Janeiro. Os dados foram produzidos pela técnica de criatividade e sensibilidade "Mapa-Falante", entrevista semi-estruturada e observação participante; e analisados por categorias temáticas. Os resultados apontam que o cuidado ocorre direta e indiretamente, em prol da plena restauração do cliente, incluindo o ambiente que o integra, de modo a manter-se harmônico e equilibrado. As intervenções da enfermeira são no sentido de manter o ambiente em condições favoráveis de modo a torná-lo promotor de cuidados.
Perfil de diagnósticos de enfermagem antes de iniciar o tratamento hemodialítico
Authors: Bisca Mariane Muniz , Marques Isaac Rosa
Published: July 2010

Tratou-se de um estudo inter-relacional retrospectivo,o qual teve como objetivo descrever o perfil dos diagnósticos de enfermagem de 31 pacientes em início de tratamento hemodialítico em uma clínica de hemodiálise na Zona Sul de São Paulo. A pesquisa foi realizada a partir de prontuários. Os dados utilizados incluíram: identificação do paciente, doença de base, dados do exame físico, anotações e evoluções multiprofissionais. Os diagnósticos de enfermagem mais prevalentes incluíram: perfusão tissular renal ineficaz (100,0%), risco para infecção (100,0%), proteção ineficaz (80,6%) e controle ineficaz do regime terapêutico (54,8%). Concluiu-se que a identificação do perfil de diagnósticos destes pacientes é essencial para o planejamento da assistência de enfermagem após o início do programa de hemodiálise.
A "doença dos eruditos" e a triangularidade da ideia de triângulo: uma análise do conceito de espaço no tratado de Hume
Authors: Pinheiro Ulysses
Published: July 2010

A análise do conceito de espaço no Tratado da natureza humana de Hume o compromete com uma série de teses positivas sobre sua natureza e sobre o conteúdo representado por sua ideia: o espaço é finitamente divisível, e sua ideia é composta de pontos coloridos ou táteis não-extensos, o que o leva a concluir que a ideia de espaço é ela mesma espacial. Esse conjunto de teses parece comprometer Hume com uma teoria idealista do espaço. Neste artigo, elucido os argumentos de Hume a favor de suas teses positivas e examino seu comprometimento com o idealismo através de uma caracterização da natureza das proposições do Tratado.
Kant e a hermenêutica moderna
Authors: Beckenkamp Joãosinho
Published: July 2010

Encontra-se espalhada pela obra de Kant uma série de teses que dizem respeito ao que hoje é conhecido por hermenêutica, isto é, a arte ou a técnica da interpretação. Apesar da clara e marcante influência dessas teses sobre Fr. Schlegel e Schleiermacher, que devem ser reconhecidos como os verdadeiros fundadores da hermenêutica moderna, elas não são devidamente levadas em consideração pelos historiadores da hermenêutica. O presente trabalho visa recuperar a memória histórica destas conexões, no intuito de chegar a uma imagem mais justa do desenvolvimento da hermenêutica moderna.
O ensino da anatomia: integração do corpo humano e meio ambiente
Authors: Fornaziero Célia Cristina , Gordan Pedro Alejandro , Carvalho Maria Aparecida Vivan de , Araujo José Carlos , Aquino Juarez Cezar Borges de
Published: July 2010

A constante evolução da tecnologia educacional faz emergir a necessidade de suscitar reflexões sobre a prática pedagógica, e este processo dever ser discutido entre educadores e profissionais da saúde. Neste contexto, o ensino da Anatomia Humana precisa ser repensado a fim de corresponder às expectativas deste novo e atual momento. Na tentativa de apresentar alternativas de solução, implantamos um projeto de extensão na Universidade Estadual de Londrina que ensina Anatomia Humana promovendo uma integração das relações entre corpo humano e meio ambiente. Nele, os participantes desenvolveram atividades interdisciplinares de pesquisa-ação com o emprego de diferentes métodos de ensino-aprendizagem dialogados, com alunos do ensino fundamental de uma escola pública. Os resultados obtidos foram positivos no sentido de aliar o conhecimento de uma ciência básica como a Anatomia ao conhecimento ambiental, num modelo de processo ensino-aprendizagem diferenciado. Acima de tudo, a formação educacional se elabora por meio de um trabalho de flexibilidade crítica e de construção contínua de identidade entre o professor e o grupo de estudantes, considerando a realidade social da população regional.
Epidemiologia e estatística: integrando ensino, pesquisa, serviço e comunidade
Authors: Lima Estelita Pereira
Published: July 2010

O novo modelo de saúde brasileiro exige médicos dotados de visão social abrangente e capacitados para prestar à comunidade cuidados permanentes e resolutivos, bem como profissionais críticos diante da tomada de decisões. Este relato descreve uma experiência estratégica de ensino de epidemiologia e bioestatística no curso de Medicina, cuja construção do processo foi centrada no educando, que foi o agente dos conhecimentos adquiridos, por meio da produção de informações e da pesquisa na comunidade ou nos serviços de saúde. Esta estratégia resultou na integração e interdisciplinaridade acadêmica, contribuindo para a compreensão de assuntos clínicos considerando a abordagem epidemiológica e estatística. Os acadêmicos despertaram para a importância da produção científica e da construção do currículo profissional ainda na fase acadêmica, sendo capazes de identificar problemas locais e direcionar as intervenções, e reconhecer que isto representa um dos objetivos mais importantes da pesquisa em saúde. Os resultados indicam que a epidemiologia e a bioestatística podem ser trabalhadas no curso de Medicina com o mesmo sucesso de outras disciplinas da clínica, desde que seja favorecida a aprendizagem significativa dos acadêmicos.
Repercussão da perda de peso sobre parâmetros nutricionais e metabólicos de pacientes obesos graves após um ano de gastroplastia em Y-de-Roux
Authors: Costa Luziane Della , Valezi Antonio Carlos , Matsuo Tiemi , Dichi Isaias , Dichi Jane Bandeira
Published: July 2010

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a evolução metabólico-nutricional e a atividade inflamatória em pacientes com obesidade grave submetidos à cirurgia bariátrica. MÉTODOS: Realizou-se um estudo prospectivo em 56 pacientes (50 mulheres e seis homens), apresentando média de idade de 40 +/- 9,9 anos, submetidos à RYGB. Avaliação metabólica e nutricional e da atividade inflamatória foram verificadas antes, seis e 12 meses após o procedimento cirúrgico. RESULTADOS: Verificou-se redução significativa nos valores iniciais, em relação à perda de peso de 138 ± 28,8 to 90 ± 19,5 kg (p< 0,0001), glicemia de 116 ± 47,3 to 84 ± 9,8 mg/dL (p< 0,0001), níveis de triacilglicerol de 137 ± 61,4 to 84 ± 38,6 mg/dL (p< 0,0001), colesterol total de 189 ± 41,6 to 166 ± 36,4 mg/dL (p< 0,0001) e LDL-colesterol de 119 ± 36,1 para 104 ± 30,7 mg/dL (p< 0,0005). Os níveis de proteína C-reativa reduziram de 11,33 ± 10,82 para 3,62 ± 4,49 mg/dL (p< 0,0001). Embora os níveis de ferro tenham permanecido dentro do limite de normalidade, após um ano, observou-se diminuição significativa na hemoglobina de 13 ± 1,3 para 12 ± 1,4 g/dL (p< 0,01), e redução nos níveis de ferritina, particularmente nas mulheres, que apresentou queda de 101,2 ± 123,3 para 85,0 ± 101,9 g/dL (p< 0,03). CONCLUSÃO: A melhora verificada no estado metabólico e inflamatório concomitantemente após tratamento cirúrgico pode reduzir substancialmente as co-morbidades associadas com o risco cardiovascular aumentado.