bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estudo longitudinal do sucesso clínico-radiográfico de dentes tratados com medicação intracanal de hidróxido de cálcio
Authors: Nery Mauro Juvenal , Cintra Luciano Tavares Angelo , Gomes-Filho João Eduardo , Dezan-Junior Eloi , Otoboni-Filho José Arlindo , Sivieri-Araujo Gustavo , Nery Thiago Santos , Salzedas Leda Maria Pescinini
Published: February 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: O tratamento endodôntico é de fundamental importância para abolir a infecção presente em dentes que apresentam necrose pulpar. OBJETIVO: O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar clínica e radiograficamente a eficácia dos tratamentos de canais radiculares de dentes com lesão periapical crônica, efetuados pelos graduandos em Odontologia, da Faculdade de Odontologia de Araçatuba - UNESP. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: Foram selecionados 100 pacientes que possuíam dentes com lesão periapical crônica para serem tratados. Após o preparo biomecânico, os canais radiculares receberam uma medicação intracanal de hidróxido de cálcio durante o período de 14 dias. Os canais radiculares foram obturados com cimento endodôntico à base de hidróxido de cálcio. Foi realizada a proservação por um período entre oito e 11 meses. RESULTADO: A análise dos resultados permitiu constatar a porcentagem de 78,46% dos casos com reparo total da lesão periapical e de 21,54% dos casos em que não houve evidências de reparo. CONCLUSÃO: Ocorreu reparo das lesões periapicais nos dentes tratados pelos graduandos da Faculdade de Odontologia de Araçatuba - UNESP.
Dentinogenesis imperfecta type II: approach for dental treatment
Authors: Scarel-Caminaga Raquel Mantuaneli , Cavalcante Lícia Bezerra , Finoti Livia Sertori , Santos Maria Cristina Leme Godoy dos , Konishi Maria Flávia , Santos-Pinto Lourdes Aparecida Martins dos
Published: February 2013

INTRODUCTION: Dentinogenesis imperfecta (DI) is a hereditary dentin development disorder that affects both primary and permanent dentitions. The DI characteristics are discolored and translucent teeth ranging from gray to brownish-blue or amber. The enamel may split readily from the dentin when subjected to occlusal stress. Radiographically there are evident of cervical constrictions, short root and pulp chambers, and the root canals are smaller than normal or completely obliterated. The dental treatment choice can be decided on a case-by case‑basis, considering the degree of dental tissue loss, and child age and cooperation. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this case report was to describe the early dental treatment performed in a child affected by DI type II. CASE REPORT: The treatment involved basic preventive procedures. Primary molars were worn to such an extent that the remained tooth structure was covered with composite resin to protect the exposed dentin. Resin-based sealant was applied in all first permanent molars. Posterior cross bite was treated with the expansion of the upper arch. CONCLUSION: The early treatment restored the patient´s vertical dimension resulting in acceptable esthetics and function for the permanent teeth to complete their eruption.
Strength evaluation of clinker stabilized fly ash-mine overburden composites as an alternative haul road construction material
Authors: Mallick Soumya R. , Mishra Manoj K.
Published: February 2013

Opencast coal mining plays a major role in meeting the demand for fossil fuel. Large capacity haul trucks are being increasingly used to meet this demand. These trucks need well-designed haul roads. Opencast mining also imposes adverse conditions on the area due to substantial overburden lying unreclaimed. The current fly-ash production is about 180 MT that will rise to about 600 MT by 2030 in India. It adversely affects land, air and water resources. Strong effort is required to address this issue. An investigation has been taken up to evaluate the use of both fly ash as well as mine overburden material along with a selected additive to develop an alternative construction material to be used in the sub-base of haul road. This article reports the detailed laboratory investigations carried out on the development of Fly ash Composite Material (FCM) with mine overburden and clinker and determination of their suitability for haul road. Proctor compaction test, Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) test, Brazilian Tensile Strength (BTS) test and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) were carried out. The composite with 62% fly ash, 30% overburden and 8% clinker exhibited adequate strength value for the haul road construction.
Primary phase alignment in the Mg-Sb system with a 35-T DC magnetic field
Authors: Imhoff Seth D. , Ott Thomas J. , Tucker Tim J. , Katz Martha R. , Cooley Jason C.
Published: February 2013

Primary phase alignment behavior in the Mg-Sb system is explored by solidification of samples in a 35-T DC magnetic field. Compositions with multiple solidification reaction pathways are found to have different phase alignment characteristics. In the current study, the orientation of Mg and Sb primary grains do not appear to be strongly influenced, but the α-Mg3Sb2 shows a very strong tendency to align with its long axis perpendicular to the field direction. By comparing the two compositions that both first nucleate α-Mg3Sb2 from the melt, it is found that the volume fraction involved in the primary reaction is a controlling factor for the total degree of alignment throughout the structure. This volume fraction dependence is interpreted as hindering free rotation in the liquid.
Briefing: Donkin’s 1902 paper on motive power from blast-furnace gases
Authors: Dunn Peter D.
Published: February 2013

Bryan Donkin’s 1902 paper on motive power from blast-furnace gases provides a valuable snapshot of the situation at the time and, in particular, illustrates the high degree of development of the gas engine. It is an integrating paper, both comprehensive and authoritative. Manufacturers are always interested in ways of avoiding the waste of expensive raw materials and ways of reducing operational costs, including the use of fuel at maximum efficiency; provided, of course, that these innovations do not risk delays in production or loss of product quality. Nevertheless, although first proposed and demonstrated in Britain, the conversion of blast furnace gas in engines was first adopted generally in continental Europe. The Donkin family have been engineers over many generations and are responsible for establishing an engineering industry and also for many useful innovations. The iron (later steel) industry was the basis for the Industrial Revolution. Blast furnace efficiency had been substantially improved and by 1900 world iron production had reached 40 Mt per year, and following improved methods of steel production steel had considerably overtaken the production of wrought iron.
Humoral Responses to Islet Antigen-2 and Zinc Transporter 8 Are Attenuated in Patients CarryingHLA-A*24Alleles at the Onset of Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Long Anna E. , Gillespie Kathleen M. , Aitken Rachel J. , Goode Julia C. , Bingley Polly J. , Williams Alistair J.K.
Published: February 2013

The HLA-A*24 allele has shown negative associations with autoantibodies to islet antigen-2 (IA-2) and zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8) in patients with established type 1 diabetes. Understanding how this HLA class I allele affects humoral islet autoimmunity gives new insights into disease pathogenesis. We therefore investigated the epitope specificity of associations between HLA-A*24 and islet autoantibodies at disease onset. HLA-A*24 genotype and autoantibody responses to insulin (IAA), glutamate decarboxylase (GADA), IA-2, IA-2β, and ZnT8 were analyzed in samples collected from patients with recent-onset type 1 diabetes. After correction for age, sex, and HLA class II genotype, HLA-A*24 was shown to be a negative determinant of IA-2A and ZnT8A. These effects were epitope specific. Antibodies targeting the protein tyrosine phosphatase domains of IA-2 and IA-2β, but not the IA-2 juxtamembrane region, were less common in patients carrying HLA-A*24 alleles. The prevalence of ZnT8A specific or cross-reactive with the ZnT8 tryptophan-325 polymorphic residue, but not those specific to arginine-325, was reduced in HLA-A*24-positive patients. No associations were found between HLA-A*24 and IAA or GADA. Association of an HLA class I susceptibility allele with altered islet autoantibody phenotype at diagnosis suggests CD8 T-cell and/or natural killer cell–mediated killing modulates humoral autoimmune responses.
sRAGE and Risk of Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, and Death
Authors: Selvin Elizabeth , Halushka Marc K. , Rawlings Andreea M. , Hoogeveen Ron C. , Ballantyne Christie M. , Coresh Josef , Astor Brad C.
Published: February 2013

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and their receptors are strongly implicated in the development of diabetes complications. When stimulated by AGEs, the receptors for AGEs (RAGEs) induce inflammation and are thought to fuel disease progression. Soluble circulating RAGE (sRAGE) may counteract the detrimental effects of RAGE. We measured sRAGE in stored plasma from a random sample of 1,201 participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study who were aged 47–68 years, had normal kidney function, and had no history of cardiovascular disease. In cross-sectional analyses, black race, male sex, higher BMI, and higher C-reactive protein were independently associated with low sRAGE. The racial difference was striking, with blacks approximately three times more likely to have low sRAGE compared with whites even after adjustment. During ~18 years of follow-up, there were 192 incident coronary heart disease events, 53 ischemic strokes, 213 deaths, and 253 cases of diabetes (among the 1,057 persons without diabetes at baseline). In multivariable Cox models comparing risk in the first quartile with that in the fourth quartile of baseline sRAGE, low levels of sRAGE were significantly associated with risk of diabetes (hazard ratio 1.64 [95% CI 1.10–2.44]), coronary heart disease (1.82 [1.17–2.84]), and mortality (1.72 [1.11–2.64]) but not ischemic stroke (0.78 [0.34–1.79]). In conclusion, we found that low levels of sRAGE were a marker of future chronic disease risk and mortality in the community and may represent an inflammatory state. Racial differences in sRAGE deserve further examination.
Identification of Candida albicans heat shock proteins and Candida glabrata and Candida krusei enolases involved in the response to oxidative stress
Authors: Cuéllar-Cruz Mayra , Gutiérrez-Sánchez Gerardo , López-Romero Everardo , Ruiz-Baca Estela , Villagómez-Castro Julio , Rodríguez-Sifuentes Lucio
Published: February 2013

In the past two decades, Candida species have become the second leading cause of invasive mycosis in immunocompromised patients. In order to colonize their hosts, these microorganisms express adhesins and cell wall proteins that allow them to adhere and neutralize the reactive oxygen species produced by phagocytic cells during the respiratory burst. However, the precise mechanism by which Candida cell wall proteins change their expression in response to oxidative stress has not been described. In an attempt to understand this change in response to oxidative stress, in this study, three Candida species, namely, C. albicans, C. glabrata and C. krusei, were exposed to increasing concentrations of H2O2 and induced cell wall proteins were identified by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and peptide mass fingerprinting. Sequence analysis of differential proteins led to the identification of two heat-shock proteins in C. albicans, two enolases in C. glabrata and one enolase in C. krusei. Enolases may be involved in the protection of pathogenic cells against oxidative stress as suggested by the decrease in their expression when they were exposed to high concentrations of H2O2. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration that expression of these proteins changes in response to oxidative stress in different Candida species. This knowledge can eventually facilitate both an early diagnosis and a more efficient treatment of this mycosis.
Differences in histological and physiological traits of ozone sensitive and resistant bean strains
Authors: Villányi Vanda , Déri Helga , Péli Evelin , Csintalan Zsolt
Published: February 2013

An examination of possible histological causes of differences in ozone sensitivity between ozone sensitive (R123) and resistant (S156) Phaseolus vulgaris strains was carried out. A distinction between the causes and effects of ozone sensitivity was also performed. We studied several morphological and histological traits, which included stomata number and size and also looked at different cell characteristics, such as stomatal index; leaf tissue thickness, fraction and gaseous conductance of intercellular air spaces. Together with this, we made gas-exchange measurements and found inner CO2 levels to be higher in the ozone sensitive strain. We also found several quantitative morphological parameters between the two strains to be initially different, however, these differences changed after exposure to summer climate and ozone. Stomatal function between the two strains was also differently altered by the pollutant, which was apparent from differences in stomatal openness when investigated in summer. According to our histological data, epidermal cells of the ozone sensitive strain grew larger on leaves that developed after exposure to cumulative considerable phytotoxic ozone doses; moderately decreasing the number of stomata and epidermal cells per mm2 epidermal area despite the originally higher number of epidermal cells in sensitive plants. Cross sections of injured sensitive leaves revealed disorganisation of mesophyllum tissues.
Enhancement of docetaxel-treated MCF-7 cell death by 900-MHz radiation
Authors: Trebuňová Marianna , Laputková Galina , Géci Imrich , Andrašina Igor , Sabo Ján
Published: February 2013

The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of high-frequency electromagnetic field of 900 MHz at 8 W input power on metabolic activity of human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells. With the aid of the colorimetric MTT assay, it was shown that there is significant change in cell culture survival exposed to docetaxel in field-free conditions in comparison with cells treated with docetaxel simultaneously exposed to high-frequency electromagnetic field.
Phylogenetic relations of the dinoflagellate Gymnodinium baicalense from Lake Baikal
Authors: Annenkova Natalia
Published: February 2013

Freshwater dinoflagellates still remain poorly studied by modern biological methods. This lack of knowledge prevents us from understanding the evolution and colonization patterns of these ecologically important protists. Gymnodinium baicalense is the most abundant, and possibly endemic, planktonic dinoflagellate from the ancient Lake Baikal. This dinoflagellate species blooms in the spring under the ice. This study analyzed the origin of this Baikalian dinoflagellate using three markers (two ribosomal and one mitochondrial DNA). It was found that this species is a true member of the order Gymnodiniales and has close relatives in the glacial melt waters of the Arctic Ocean. It seems that G. baicalense has diversified relatively recently from the arctic marine gymnodinioids. These results shed light on dinoflagellate biogeography and their colonizations in Lake Baikala biodiversity hotspot.
The Effect of Sinus Surgery with Intensive follow-up on Pathogenic Sinus Bacteria in Patients with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Aanaes Kasper , von Buchwald Christian , Hjuler Thomas , Skov Marianne , Alanin Mikkel , Johansen Helle Krogh
Published: February 2013

Background

Most patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) have chronic rhinosinusitis; their sinuses are often colonized with bacteria that can initiate and maintain deleterious pulmonary infections. Theoretically, eradication of the sinus bacteria should reduce the frequency of lung infections and thereby reduce pulmonary morbidity. This article addressed whether bacteria in CF sinuses are eligible for eradication by sinus surgery and postoperative treatment.

Methods

A prospective study including 58 CF patients, who had extensive sinus surgery and growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Achromobacter xylosoxidans, and/or Burkholderia multivorans in their sinuses, was initiated. All patients followed a systematic postoperative treatment program of nasal irrigations with saline and colistimethate sodium and systematic endoscopic cleansing. All patients had follow-up examinations including sinus cultures; each side of the nose was cultured separately.

Results

At the 6-month follow-up visit, 49 patients were cultured; 66 of 98 maxillary–ethmoidal complexes (67%) showed no growth of pathogenic bacteria. Some patients were not free from CF pathogenic bacteria at all cultures; however, 20 (41%) patients had no bilateral regrowth (p < 0.01) and 4 patients had no unilateral regrowth at any time during 6 months of follow-up. The eradication of CF pathogens was accomplished in patients from all three lung infection groups: intermittently colonized, chronically infected, and lung transplanted. The patient with the longest follow-up had no bacterial growth for 3 years.

Conclusion

Extensive sinus surgery combined with intensive follow-up can eradicate pathogenic bacteria from CF sinuses.
Effect of Onchocerca Volvulus Chitinase on MUC5B Expression in Human Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Song Si-Youn , Seo Young Jung , Kim Yong-Woon , Park So-Young , Bae Chang Hoon , Kim Yong-Dae
Published: February 2013

Background

Chitin is an essential structural component of the wall of fungal cells and is present in the exoskeleton of arthropods. It has been generally assumed that mammals lack the ability to produce chitinase proteins, the enzymes responsible for chitin degradation. However, recent studies have indicated that mammals produce chitinases and chitinase-like proteins, and chitinase plays a potential role in human asthma and allergic inflammation. In this study, the effect and brief signaling pathway of chitinase on MUC5B expression were investigated in human airway epithelial cells.

Methods

In the mucin-producing human NCI-H292 airway epithelial cells and the primary cultures of normal nasal epithelial cells, the effect and signaling pathway of chitinase on MUC5B expression were investigated using the reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), real-time PCR, enzyme immunoassay, and immunoblot analysis with several specific inhibitors and small interfering RNA (siRNA).

Results

In the mucin-producing human NCI-H292 airway epithelial cells, chitinase increased MUC5B expression. Chitinase significantly activated the phosphorylation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) but not the phosphorylation of extracellular signa-l-related kinase (ERK) 1/2. The SB203580 (p38 MAPK inhibitor) significantly attenuated chitinase-induced MUC5B mRNA expression, but U0126 (ERK1/2 inhibitor) did not. Knockdown of p38 MAPK by p38 MAPK siRNA significantly blocked chitinase-induced MUC5B expression. In the primary cultures of normal nasal epithelial cells, chitinase significantly increased MUC5B gene expression and this was significantly attenuated after pretreatment with SB203580.

Conclusion

These results suggest that chitinase induces MUC5B expression by activation of the p38 MAPK signaling pathway in human airway epithelial cells.
Antibody Deficiency in Chronic Rhinosinusitis: Epidemiology and Burden of Illness
Authors: Ocampo Christopher J. , Peters Anju T.
Published: February 2013

Background

A subset of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has refractory disease. The risk factors for refractory CRS include atopy, a disrupted mucociliary transport system, medical conditions affecting the sinonasal tract mucosa, and immunodeficiency.

Methods

We review four primary immunodeficiencies reported in individuals with CRS: common variable immune deficiency (CVID), selective IgA deficiency, IgG subclass deficiency, and specific antibody deficiency. We also review treatment options for individuals with both CRS and a concomitant immune defect.

Results

There is a high prevalence of CRS in individuals with CVID and selective IgA deficiency. While many reports describe IgG subclass deficiency in individuals with CRS, the clinical relevance of this is unclear. Specific antibody deficiency may play a more significant role in the pathogenesis of refractory CRS.

Conclusion

Screening for a primary immunodeficiency should be part of the diagnostic workup of refractory CRS, as its identification may allow for more effective long-term therapeutic options.
Nasalance Change after Sinonasal Surgery: Analysis of Voice after Septoturbinoplasty and Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Kim Young Ha , Lee Sang Hee , Park Chang Woo , Cho Jin Hee
Published: February 2013

Background

Changes in nasalance caused by resonance change after endonasal surgeries have been reported in prior studies. In clinical practice, although patients often complain of a nasal voice just after surgery, their voices recover over time. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term nasalance changes before and after endonasal surgery.

Methods

Patients who underwent sinonasal surgery at Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital between March 2009 and July 2011 were included in this study. We classified the subjects into three groups according to the surgeries they underwent: group 1, the septoturbinoplasty group; group 2, the endoscopic sinus surgery group; and group 3, the septoturbinoplasty and endoscopic sinus surgery group. We checked acoustic profiles, Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain (GRBAS) scores, and nasalance using a nasometer before and after the sinonasal surgery.

Results

When considering multidimensional voice program results, no observed parameters showed statistically meaningful changes before or after the operation in all three groups. GRBAS scales in all patients changed less than two scales postoperatively. Nasalance increased at 1 month after the operation in all groups. However, it returned to original levels with time: 3 months in group 2 and 6 months in groups 1 and 3.

Conclusion

Sinonasal surgery can change the acoustic characteristics of the vocal tract and produce a significant increase in nasality in the early phase. However, after proper healing of the nasal cavity, nasality was observed to become similar to the preoperative level. Therefore, patients, especially voice professionals, do not need to be wary of voice changes after sinonasal surgery.
Effect of Intranasal Fluticasone Furoate and Intraocular Olopatadine on Nasal and Ocular Allergen-Induced Symptoms
Authors: Baroody Fuad M. , Logothetis Hercules , Vishwanath Shilpa , Bashir Mohamad , deTineo Marcella , Naclerio Robert M.
Published: February 2013

Background

Nasal allergen challenge (NAC) leads to a nasal ocular reflex, which is augmented by allergic inflammation. This study was designed to confirm our previous observation that an intranasal steroid inhibits the nasal ocular reflex and to show that histamine does not play an important role in the genesis of this reflex.

Methods

We performed a randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo (PL)-controlled, four-way crossover trial in subjects with seasonal allergic rhinitis out of season. Subjects were randomized to receive 1 week pretreatment with intranasal PL and intraocular (PL/PL), intranasal PL and intraocular olopatadine (PL/OLO), intranasal fluticasone furoate (FF) and intraocular PL (FF/PL), and the combination (FF/OLO). Subjects then underwent NAC on 2 consecutive days. The number of sneezes and nasal and ocular symptoms were recorded, and levels of tryptase and histamine were measured in nasal lavages.

Results

NAC after PL/PL resulted in increase in symptoms, histamine, and tryptase after the challenge on the 2nd day. There was a reduction in eye symptoms on the 2nd day of challenge from 6.0 after PL/PL to 0 after FF/PL (p = 0.001), 2.5 after PL/OLO (p = 0.3), and 1.5 after FF/OLO (p = 0.003). Furthermore, there was no significant difference between the response after FF/PL versus FF/OLO and a significant difference between FF/PL and PL/OLO (p = 0.02). Levels of tryptase followed a similar trend. The number of eosinophils in nasal lavages on the 2nd day of challenge were also reduced by the treatment arms containing FF compared with PL.

Conclusion

Our data confirm the existence of a nasal ocular reflex after NAC. OLO alone or the addition of OLO to FF does not impact ocular symptoms caused by the naso-ocular reflex, suggesting that mast cells are not activated to release histamine in the conjunctiva during this process.
The Impact of Unilateral Concha Bullosa on Mucociliary Activity: An Assessment by Rhinoscintigraphy
Authors: Özkırış Mahmut , Karaçavuş Seyhan , Kapusuz Zeliha , Saydam Levent
Published: February 2013

Background

In this study, we aimed to compare the differences of nasal mucociliary clearance rate (NMCR) by rhinoscintigraphic examination between the nasal cavities of patients with unilateral concha bullosa (CB).

Methods

The study group consisted of 43 patients (18 men and 25 women), with unilateral CB ranging in age from 20 to 58 years (mean age, 33.5 ± 9.51 years). The nasal mucociliary clearance was described as the velocity (mm/min) of nasal mucociliary transport of the technetium 99m-macroaggragated albumin droplet. Rhinoscintigraphy was performed on each nasal cavity with 2-day intervals in the patients. The mucociliary clearance rates obtained in the unaffected side were accepted as control values.

Results

The average values for mucociliary clearance rate were 2.29 ± 0.42 mm/min in the CB side of the nasal cavity, and 3.19 ± 0.52 mm/min in the other side of the nasal cavity. Mucociliary transport took a longer time in the CB side of the nasal cavity than in the other side of the nasal cavity, which was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our study showed that unilateral CB might impair NMCR in the ipsilateral side of the nasal cavity. Thus surgical intervention to reduce the middle concha volume may result in a better mucociliary clearance with possibly a less chance of development of chronic sinus diseases and nasal pathologies. Obviously, it is of utmost importance that new studies be planned with larger patient series to better understand nasal mucociliary transport mechanism and CB relationships.
Methotrexate Induces Apoptosis in Nasal Polyps via Caspase Cascades and Both Mitochondria-Mediated and p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/Jun N-terminal Kinase Pathways
Authors: Cho Hong Wook , Park Seong Kook , Heo Kyung Wook , Hur Dae Young
Published: February 2013

Background

Methotrexate (MTX) is a very effective treatment for chronic inflammatory diseases that induces apoptosis in nasal polyps (NPs). However, the precise apoptotic pathway in NPs remains unclear. The aim of this study was to identify the apoptotic signaling pathways activated by MTX in NPs.

Methods

NP tissues were organ cultured using an air–liquid interface method. Cultures were maintained in the presence or absence of MTX (10 or 100 μM) for 24 hours. To investigate apoptotic signaling in NPs, we performed reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting.

Results

MTX-treated NPs contained significantly increased amounts of the active forms of caspase 8, caspase 9, and caspase 3 and displayed increased cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase. Expression of the proapoptotic molecules Bax and Bad at the mRNA and protein levels and of the activated molecules p-Bad and tBid was significantly higher in MTX-treated NPs than in nontreated NPs. In contrast, expression of the antiapoptotic molecule Bcl-2 at the mRNA and protein levels was significantly lower in MTX-treated NPs than in nontreated NPs. Expression of the phosphorylated forms of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) was significantly higher in MTX-treated NPs than in nontreated NPs. In contrast, expression of the phosphorylated form of Akt was significantly lower in MTX-treated NPs than in nontreated NPs.

Conclusion

MTX induces apoptosis in NPs via caspase cascades and both mitochondria-mediated and p38 MAPK/JNK pathways. We suggest that MTX can be used to treat NPs.
Preventive Effects of Oral Tolerance on Allergic Inflammation and Airway Remodeling in a Murine Model
Authors: Kim Seung Joon , Shin Ji-Hyeon , Kim Seok Chan , Park Chan Kwon , Kim Soo Whan
Published: February 2013

Background

Oral tolerance (OT) is considered as a preventive and therapeutic strategy for treating asthma and allergic rhinitis (AR). We investigated the preventive effects of OT on allergic inflammation and remodeling in the upper and lower airways in a mouse model of allergy.

Methods

BALB/c mice were divided into four groups: control, allergy, low-dose OT, and high-dose OT. To induce OT, mice were fed ovalbumin (OVA) before sensitization with OVA/Al(OH)3 at a dose of 1 mg for 6 days in low-dose OT group and a single dose of 25 mg in high-dose OT group. After sensitization followed by OVA challenge, nasal symptoms, interleukin (IL)-13, interferon (IFN)-gamma, IL-10, and transforming growth factor (TGF) beta-1 levels in nasal lavage (NAL) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids were measured, and OVA-specific IgE, IgG1, and IgG2a levels were measured in the serum. The airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) was measured by enhanced pause. The goblet cell hyperplasia and the thickness of lamina propria were observed in the upper and lower airways.

Results

In the allergy group, the allergic behavior scores, AHR, and OVA-specific IgE, IgG1, and IgG2a levels; inflammatory cells; IFN-gamma levels; and IL-13 levels in NAL/BAL fluids were elevated compared with the control group, low-dose OT group, and high-dose OT group. The allergy group had higher levels of IL-10 and TGF-beta-1 in BAL fluids when compared with the other groups. The goblet cell hyperplasia and the thickness of the lamina propria were attenuated in both OT groups compared with the allergy group.

Conclusion

OT may effectively prevent AHR, allergic inflammation, and airway remodeling in the upper and lower airways.
Changes of Histamine Receptors and CC Chemokines in Nasal Epithelial Cells and Fibroblasts after Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Authors: Jung Su Young , Shin Seung Youp , Eun Young Gyu , Kim Sung Wan , Cho Joong Saeng
Published: February 2013

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is reported as the most influential factor that triggers hyperreactivity of the airway and causes asthma in infants and children. However, the mechanisms remain to be elucidated. The study evaluated the changes in the levels of four types of histamine receptor (HR) and CC chemokines, such as eotaxin and regulated on activation, normal T cell expressed and presumably secreted (RANTES), in nasal epithelial cells and fibroblasts after RSV infection.

Methods

Nasal cavity mucosa attained from 20 patients who had undergone inferior turbinoplasty were cleaned by normal saline mixed with gentamicin. Each sample was divided in half. One-half was used for incubation of epithelial cells, and the other half was used for culturing fibroblasts. The levels of HR 1 (H1R), 2 (H2R), 3 (H3R), 4 (H4R), eotaxin, and RANTES were measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction 0, 12, and 36 hours after infection with RSV.

Results

H1R was significantly increased at 12 and 36 hours compared with 0 hours in both cell types. The level of H2R was significantly increased in epithelial cells from 0 to 36 and 12 to 36 hours and in fibroblasts from 0 to 12 and 0 to 36 hours. There were significant increases of H3R level in fibroblasts from 0 to 12 and 0 to 36 hours, and of H4R in epithelial cells and fibroblasts from 0 to 12 and 0 to 36 hours. Eotaxin and RANTES were also significantly increased in both epithelial cells and fibroblasts from 0 to 12 and 0 to 36 hours.

Conclusion

RSV infection increases the levels of all four HRs, especially H1R and H2R, as well as the levels of eotaxin and RANTES in nasal epithelial cells and fibroblasts. These findings suggest that RSV infection might cause respiratory tract hyperreactivity by increasing the content of HRs and CC chemokines.
Interventions for Learning Disabilities
Authors: McCleary Daniel F. , Rowlette Emily Fuller , Pelchar Taylor K. , Bain Sherry K.
Published: February 2013

We investigated whether there was a noticeable shift in focus from general to specific learning disabilities, and in the types of articles (narrative or empirically based) in the Journal of Learning Disabilities (JLD) between 1995 to 2000. A pilot study had revealed an increase in empirically based articles and a shift toward specifically delineated learning disabilities across three journals focusing on learning disabilities between 1995 and 2000. To attempt to delineate a specific year for the change, we examined all JLD articles from 1995 to 2000. We found a dramatic increase in articles focusing on specific learning disabilities (designating area of academic weakness) and on the percentage of empirically based articles beginning in 1999. We speculate on the relationship between this increase and evolving practices emphasizing research-based interventions, particularly those that predated No Child Left Behind and the reauthorization of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Investigation on the Efficacy of a Killed Salmonella pullorum Vaccine
Authors: Akter Mst Shamima , Saha Sukumar , Islam Md Ariful , Hossain Md Golzar
Published: February 2013

This study was carried out to determine the efficacy of a formalin-killed alum-precipitated Salmonella pullorum vaccine prepared by the Livestock and Poultry Vaccine Research and Production Centre (LPVRPC), BAU, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Immunization with this vaccine induced serum antibody titers that peaked in 2-week following both primary and booster vaccination (P<0.05), and started to decline following 4-week of both vaccinations. Both primary and booster vaccination induced detectable antibody responses that were able to react with whole cells S. pullorum as determined by passive haemagglutination test (PHA). Both vaccinated chicken and mice showed maximal resistance following challenge with a virulent isolate of S. pullorum (P<0.01). In differential leukocyte counts in mice, a significant increase of lymphocytes was observed after primary immunization (P<0.01). Sera from vaccinated chickens conferred superior protection over naive chickens from lethal challenge with S. pullorum (P<0.01). Finally, this result indicates that S. pullorum vaccine is effective for controlling pullorum disease and antibody is crucial for protection.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13707 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.14-18
Lethal Effects of Salmonella Toxin Isolated from Layer Chickens
Authors: Afroz Farzana , Rahman Md Mostafizer , Fakhruzzaman Md , Uddin Mezabh
Published: February 2013

This study was conducted to determine lethal effects of Salmonella toxin isolated from layer chickens. The chickens were collected from Paragon Poultry Farm, Rangpur and Ahana Poultry Farm, Dinajpur and brought to the Microbiology Laboratory at the Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur, to isolate and identify Salmonella spp., and subsequent toxin separation from the isolated organisms for the detection of lethal effects of the toxin. The lethality of isolated toxin was evaluated in day-old-chick. The toxicity in case of oral administration was 50%, whereas the rate was 80% when chicks were administered through intra-peritoneal route. The chick mortality rate was 65%. For toxin extraction, Salmonellae were isolated and identified from layer chickens. Out of 196 organ samples, 51 were found to be positive for Salmonella spp., of which 33 and 18 were of Paragon Poultry Farm and Ahana Poultry Farm, respectively. Total 60 chickens (27 pullets and 33 layers) were screened. The percentages of positive samples (liver, spleen, lung, heart) from these farms were 29.82 and 20.73%, respectively and the average prevalence of Salmonellae was 26.02%. In case of Paragon Poultry Farm, the prevalence of salmonellosis in pullet was 23.08% and in layer, it was 35.48%, whereas in case of Ahana Poultry Farm, the prevalence was 16.67 and 23.91%, respectively.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13708 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.19-22
Prevalence, Characteristics and Antibiogram Profiles of Escherichia coli Isolated from Apparently Healthy Chickens in Mymensingh, Bangladesh
Authors: Jakaria ATM , Islam Md Ariful , Khatun Mst Minara
Published: February 2013

Escherichia coli known to cause food-borne illnesses worldwide that are closely associated with the consumption of conta-minated poultry and egg products. This study was undertaken for cultural, biochemical and antibiotic sensitivity analyses of E. coli recovered from apparently healthy chickens. Cloacal samples (n=350) were aseptically collected from layers (n=150), broilers (n=150) and indigenous chickens (n=50). The samples were enriched in nutrient broth and streaked onto eosin methylene blue (EMB) agar, MacConkey (MC) agar, blood agar, salmonella-shigella (SS) agar and brilliant green agar (BGA) for cultural characterization of the E. coli isolates. Culture-positive samples yielded characteristic colonies of E. coli with metallic sheen on EMB agar, bright pink or red colonies on MC agar, hemolysis on blood agar, slight pink smooth colonies on SS agar and green color colonies on BGA media. The E. coli isolates produced acid and gas by ferm-enting sugars (dextrose, sucrose, lactose, maltose and mannitol) and gave positive reaction to indole, methyl red (MR) and catalase tests, but were negative to Voges-Proskauer (VP) test. The prevalence of E. coli in layers, broilers and indigenous chickens were 78.67, 82 and 70%, respectively. The antibiotic sensitivity pattern demonstrated that E. coli isolates were mostly sensitive to ciprofloxacin, gentamicin and cephalexin, and resistant to streptomycin, tetracycline, amoxicillin and nalidixic acid. Data of this study suggested that intestine of chicken could be a major reservoir of antibiotic resistant E. coli.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13710 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.27-29
Prevalence of Salmonella in Apparently Healthy Chickens in Mymensingh, Bangladesh
Authors: Naurin Sejuti , Islam Md Ariful , Khatun Mst Minara
Published: February 2013

Salmonella spp. are the most frequently reported cause of food-borne illnesses worldwide that are closely associated with the consumption of contaminated poultry and egg products. This study was designed to isolate and identify Salmonella, and evaluate its prevalence in chickens of different lines and ages during summer and rainy seasons. Cloacal swab samples (n=200) of apparently healthy chickens were collected. Isolated Salmonella were characterized using cultural, biochemical and serological examinations. A total of 104 samples (52%) were found to be positive for Salmonella spp. The prevalence of Salmonella spp. was significantly higher (p<0.01) during summer (67.78%) as opposed to rainy season (39.09%). Prevalence of Salmonella was 71.11% in broiler, 38.89% in layer and 25% in indigenous chicken. Broilers showed significantly higher prevalence of Salmonella as compared to layer and indigenous chickens (p<0.01). Among the five age groups, the highest prevalence was observed in chickens of 18-week of age (65%) and the lowest was in chickens of 2-week age (16.67%). The data of this study showed higher prevalence of Salmonella in broilers and underscored the need for detail epidemiological investigations as well as strict hygienic practices in farm and live bird markets all over Bangladesh. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13711 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.30-33
Knowledge and Practicing Behavior Related to Personal Hygiene among the Secondary School Students of Mymensingh Sadar Upazilla, Bangladesh
Authors: Ghose Jayanta Kumar , Rahman Md Mahfuzar , Hassan Jayedul , Khan Md Shahidur Rahman , Alam Muhammad Ashiqul
Published: February 2013

A descriptive type of cross sectional study was conducted on 132 students of class IX and X of Mymensingh sadar upazilla during early April to late June, 2007. This study was performed to assess and compare the level of knowledge and practicing behavior of urban and rural students in regards to hand washing, bathing, tooth brushing and taking care of nail and hair. All the students were interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire and observed with an observational check list. The mean age of the students was 14.5±0.94 years. The knowledge of the students regarding tube well water for drinking was significantly higher in rural area (98.3%) compared to urban area. In addition, tube well water was stated as safe for bathing by 77.3% and safe for washing by 80.3% students. Hand washing before meal with soap and water was found almost similar among urban and rural students but hand washing with soap and water after defecation was found significantly better practiced in urban (97.2%) students. Practice regarding tooth paste use was higher in urban (80.6%) area and charcoal use (10.0%) was still found in rural areas. The mean frequency of tooth brushing was significantly higher in girls (1.8±0.5) compared to boys (1.6±0.5) and was significantly higher among urban (1.9±0.4) students. Most of the students were found trimming their nail once a week (74.2%) and cut their hair once a month (85.6%). Overall trend of knowledge and practice about personal hygiene is in positive direction but urban students and girls were more aware about personal hygiene than rural students. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/mh.v1i1.13712 Microbes and Health Vol.1(1) June 2012 pp.34-37
Processing of RecombinantListeria monocytogenesProteins for MHC Class I Presentation Follows a Dedicated, High-Efficiency Pathway
Authors: Wolf Benjamin J. , Princiotta Michael F.
Published: February 2013

CD8+ T lymphocytes recognize short peptides of ∼8–10 aa bound to MHC class I molecules (pMHC) on the surface of APCs. These peptides can be generated from either endogenous proteins synthesized by the biosynthetic machinery of the presenting cell or from exogenously sourced proteins. Because much of the research characterizing the MHC class I processing pathway has focused on endogenously synthesized proteins, it is not known whether differences exist in the processing pathway followed by endogenously synthesized versus exogenously sourced proteins. To highlight potential differences in the processing of endogenous versus exogenous proteins, we developed a model system to measure the efficiency of pMHC generation from nearly identical recombinant proteins expressed from vaccinia virus and Listeria monocytogenes. In these experiments, we uncovered a striking difference in the way recombinant Listeria Ags are processed and presented when compared with endogenously synthesized viral proteins. Specifically, we find that pMHC production from secreted Listeria proteins occurs at the same rate, independent of the cellular half-life of the protein from which it is derived, whereas the rate of pMHC production from endogenously synthesized viral proteins is absolutely dependent on its protein half-life. Accordingly, our data demonstrate the existence of a distinct and highly efficient MHC class I presentation pathway used for the processing of at least some exogenously synthesized proteins.
IL-21 Enhances Phagocytosis in Mononuclear Phagocyte Cells: Identification of Spleen Tyrosine Kinase as a Novel Molecular Target of IL-21
Authors: Vallières Francis , Girard Denis
Published: February 2013

The biological significance of the IL-21/IL-21R system in human monocytes/macrophages is not well documented, and the expression of IL-21R is unclear and has been disputed. In this study, we showed for the first time, to our knowledge, that human monocyte–like THP-1 cells expressed the two IL-21R components, CD132 (γc) and IL-21Rα, on their cell surface, as assessed by flow cytometry. Moreover, IL-21 was found to enhance FcR-mediated phagocytosis, but not endocytosis. The ability of IL-21 to enhance phagocytosis was not associated with an increased expression of both IL-21R components at the cell surface, and IL-21 did not act in synergy with IL-15. IL-21 activated spleen tyrosine kinase (Syk), as evidenced by its ability to increase Syk phosphorylation. Using a pharmacological approach to inhibit Syk activity, and an antisense technique to downregulate Syk protein expression, we demonstrated the importance of Syk in IL-21–induced phagocytosis. In addition, both CD132 and IL-21Rα were expressed on the cell surface of naive monocytes, as well as in GM-CSF–monocyte-derived macrophages. Moreover, IL-21 also induced phagocytosis in these cells. We conclude that IL-21 possesses important biological effects in mononuclear phagocyte cells and that Syk is a novel molecular target of IL-21 that was previously unknown. Therefore, future development of therapeutic strategies targeting the IL-21/IL-21R system should consider that monocyte and macrophage cell physiology may be affected by this system.
A Novel IRAK1–IKKε Signaling Axis Limits the Activation of TAK1–IKKβ Downstream of TLR3
Authors: Bruni Daniela , Sebastia Jordi , Dunne Susan , Schröder Martina , Butler Marion P.
Published: February 2013

IRAK1 is involved in the regulation of type I IFN production downstream of TLR3. Previous work indicated that IRAK1 negatively regulates TRIF-mediated activation of IRF3 and IRF7. We report that IRAK1 limits the activation of the TLR3–NF-κB pathway. Following TLR3 stimulation, IRAK1-deficient macrophages produced increased levels of IL-6 and IFN-β compared with wild type macrophages. Pharmacological inhibition of TAK1 reduced this increase in IFN-β, together with the heightened activation of IRF3 and p65 found in TLR3-ligand stimulated IRAK1-deficient macrophages. Recently, IKKε and TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) were reported to limit activation of the NF-κB pathway downstream of IL-1R, TNFR1, and TLRs. We show that TBK1 has a positive role in the TLR3–NF-κB pathway, because we detected reduced levels of IL-6 and reduced activation of p65 in TBK1-deficient macrophages. In contrast, we show that IKKε limits the activation of the TLR3–NF-κB pathway. Furthermore, we show that IRAK1 is required for the activation of IKKε downstream of TLR3. We report impaired activation of ERK1/2 in IRAK1– and IKKε-deficient macrophages, a novel finding for both kinases. Importantly, this work provides novel mechanistic insight into the regulation of the TLR3-signaling pathway, providing strong evidence that an IRAK1-IKKε–signaling axis acts to limit the production of both type I IFNs and proinflammatory cytokines by regulating TAK1 activity.