bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Prevalence of Liver Fibrosis Associated with HIV Infection: A Study in Rural Rakai, Uganda
Authors: Stabinski Lara , Reynolds Steven J , Ocama Ponsiano , Laeyendecker Oliver , Ndyanabo Anthony , Kiggundu Valerian , Boaz Iga , Gray Ron H , Wawer Maria , Thio Chloe , Thomas David L , Quinn Thomas C , Kirk Gregory D , Program Rakai Health Sciences
Published: May 2011

Background

Liver disease is a leading cause of mortality among HIV-infected persons in the United States and Europe. However, data regarding the effects of HIV and antiretroviral therapy (ART) on liver disease in Africa are sparse.

Methods

A total of 500 HIV-infected participants in an HIV care programme in rural Rakai, Uganda were frequency-matched by age, gender and site to 500 HIV-uninfected participants in a population cohort. All participants underwent transient elastography (FibroScan®) to quantify liver stiffness measurements (LSM) and identify participants with significant liver fibrosis, defined as LSM≥9.3 kPa (≍ Metavir F≥2). Risk factors for liver fibrosis were identified by estimating adjusted prevalence risk ratios (adjPRR) and 95% CI using modified Poisson multivariate regression.

Results

The prevalence of hepatitis B coinfection in the study population was 5%. The prevalence of significant fibrosis was 17% among HIV-infected and 11% in HIV-uninfected participants ( P=0.008). HIV infection was associated with a 50% increase in liver fibrosis (adjPRR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1–2.1; P=0.010). Fibrosis was also associated with male gender (adjPRR 1.4, 95% CI 1.0–1.9; P=0.045), herbal medicine use (adjPRR 2.0, 95% CI 1.2– 3.3; P=0.005), heavy alcohol consumption (adjPRR 2.3, 95% CI 1.3–3.9; P=0.005), occupational fishing (adjPRR 2.5, 95% CI 1.2–5.3; P=0.019) and chronic HBV infection (adjPRR 1.7, 95% CI 1.0–3.1; P=0.058). Among HIV-infected participants, ART reduced fibrosis risk (adjPRR 0.6, 95% CI 0.4–1.0; P=0.030).

Conclusions

The burden of liver fibrosis among HIV-infected rural Ugandans is high. These data suggest that liver disease may represent a significant cause of HIV-related morbidity and mortality in Africa.
Article Commentary: Is There a Need for Liver Disease Monitoring in HIV Patients in Africa?
Authors: Rockstroh Jürgen K , Peters Lars , Wedemeyer Heiner
Published: May 2011

Liver disease is one of the leading causes of death in HIV-infected individuals from Europe and North America and has been attributed mainly to coinfection with hepatotropic viruses. Little data, however, has so far become available on liver disease in HIV-infected individuals from Africa. Results from a first study on liver disease staging by Fibroscan® in a large group of HIV-infected patients from rural Uganda suggest unexpectedly high rates of advanced fibrosis. These results were independent from hepatitis status, initiating a discussion on the need for future liver disease monitoring in these particular patient groups.
Le second ordre de la politique économique
Authors: Villa Pierre
Published: May 2011

Résumé On propose une formalisation de la politique mixte en partant des apports de la finance moderne : actifs dérivés, titrisation (hybridation), nantissement. La dette et les fonds propres sont des options de vente et d’achat d’actifs réels dont le prix suit un processus non logarithmique qui peut être calculé comme une solution avant (fondamentalisme) ou arrière (chartisme). La décision de faillite est l’exercice d’une option dont le nantissement est la valeur d’exercice. La titrisation optimale de la dette publique pour les intermédiaires financiers égalise les coûts marginaux de faillite par rapport à la dette publique et aux actifs réels. Le profit des intermédiaires accroît le coût d’usage du capital. La politique monétaire contrôle le coût de l’intermédiation par le taux d’intérêt, le risque macroéconomique en fixant un objectif intermédiaire de titrisation de la dette publique et garantit cette dernière par le refinancement de la part non titrisée. L’éligibilité et le nantissement du refinancement sont fixés par une agence publique de notation. Une politique coordonnée à moyen et court terme est proposée pour une zone monétaire. Le coefficient de garantie des actifs permet de distinguer les interventions du prêteur en dernier ressort en période normale et de crise.
Vers une agence européenne de la dette ?
Authors: Daniel Laurent , Diev Pavel
Published: May 2011

Résumé Les crises grecque et irlandaise mettent en lumière les lacunes de l’Union économique et monétaire. Nous analysons ici la possibilité d’une émission conjointe de titres de dettes publiques des pays de la zone euro. Le principal objectif d’une telle émission (dont nous appelons l’émetteur l’Agence européenne de la dette) serait de mettre en œuvre un mécanisme efficace de supervision et de coordination des politiques budgétaires, en offrant en plus un mécanisme d’assistance en cas de crise mais aussi une grande liquidité des titres émis, ce qui devrait bénéficier à l’ensemble des pays participants. Plus concrètement, nous analysons un modèle d’une agence qui émettrait des euro-obligations et re-prêterait aux pays participants, et qui serait dotée d’un Fonds de garantie alimenté par les pays les plus risqués, et d’un organe décisionnel – Conseil – qui déterminerait le prix des garanties à payer par les pays moins vertueux. La gouvernance de l’agence devra être indépendante, permettant de relever le prix, de réduire les montants, voire de supprimer l’accès au financement, des pays qui ne suivent pas ses recommandations.
Un nouveau dispositif d'assainissement budgétaire en Europe
Authors: Bofinger Peter , Ried Stefan
Published: May 2011

Résumé La situation actuelle de la Grèce illustre clairement que les règles du Pacte européen de stabilité et de croissance, PSC, n’ont été ni assez strictes, ni assez scrupuleusement respectées. Pour sortir de l’impasse budgétaire actuelle et de la crise qu’elle provoque, nous proposons un nouveau dispositif d’assainissement budgétaire en Europe. Le cœur du dispositif s’appuie sur un Pacte européen de consolidation (PEC), complétant le PSC avec cinq nouvelles caractéristiques. Les pays adhérents au Pacte devraient présenter un plan de retour à l’équilibre de leur budget, incluant les modalités concrètes de réduction des dépenses structurelles ; ils devraient mettre en place une loi prévoyant une augmentation automatique des impôts en cas d’écart à la trajectoire définie de leur solde budgétaire ; ils pourraient assurer auprès du PEC que chaque nouvelle émission de dette publique soit conforme au plan spécifié ; les primes d’assurance correspondraient à un certain pourcentage du montant émis ; le non respect de la loi d’augmentation automatique des impôts ou la sortie volontaire du pacte de consolidation impliquerait que les futures émissions de titres publics ne bénéficieraient pas de la garantie du PEC : soit le pays n’a plus besoin de garantie, soit il souhaite faire défaut. Dans ce dernier cas, le nouveau dispositif préciserait les modalités d’un défaut sur la dette publique.
La crise et les règles françaises de gouvernance des finances publiques
Authors: Chevauchez Benoît
Published: May 2011

Résumé En France, le droit public financier ignore encore largement les questions d’équilibre budgétaire. La crise financière rend ce silence préoccupant et de nombreuses voix plaident pour la fixation d’une règle d’équilibre budgétaire dans la Constitution, fixant des limites chiffrées à nos déficits. Pourtant une telle réforme paraît inutile, difficile et insuffisante. Inutile, car le traité de Maastricht nous fixe déjà des obligations d’équilibre. Difficile, car on voit mal comment sanctionner constitutionnellement des questions aussi techniques. Insuffisant, car les expériences de règles budgétaires numériques ont montré qu’elles ne permettaient pas, à elles seules, de changer les comportements budgétaires. Des règles procédurales de discipline budgétaire sont sans doute plus efficaces que ces règles numériques. Elles devraient viser à imposer un pilotage cohérent de l’ensemble des finances publiques, renforcer la pluriannualité et subordonner les dépenses aux recettes. Favorisant des décisions budgétairement responsables, elles atténueraient la désinvolture qui marque trop souvent, en France, le comportement budgétaire des pouvoirs publics.
Faut-il remettre en cause la politique familiale française ?
Authors: Sterdyniak Henri
Published: May 2011

Résumé La politique familiale française réalise un arbitrage délicat entre trois objectifs : assurer un niveau de vie minimal à chaque enfant, assurer aux familles le même niveau de vie qu’aux personnes sans enfant, favoriser l’emploi féminin. Malgré ses réussites en termes de taux de fécondité et de taux d’emploi des femmes, la politique familiale française est souvent remise en cause : elle serait trop coûteuse, profiterait aux plus riches et nuirait au travail des femmes. L’article montre que ces critiques ne sont pas pertinentes. Le quotient conjugal et le quotient familial sont des composantes nécessaires de l’impôt progressif. Cibler les prestations sur les plus pauvres affaiblirait la cohérence de la politique familiale. La politique familiale transfère des masses relativement importantes aux familles ; la prise en charge du coût des enfants est totale pour les familles à bas revenus et diminue quand le revenu augmente. Une grande réforme, qui remplacerait l’ensemble des prestations familiales et des dispositifs fiscaux, par une allocation uniforme par enfant affaiblirait la politique familiale, éloignerait de la parité familiale et nuirait aux familles nombreux.
Amortissement fiscal et redistribution dans un modèle de croissance néoclassique
Authors: Rehme Günther
Published: May 2011

Résumé L’article analyse si le couplage de la déduction fiscale pour amortissement et de l’impôt sur le revenu du capital peut être utilisé comme un instrument efficace de redistribution dans une perspective de long terme. L’analyse s’effectue dans une économie simple où coexistent deux types d’agents, les détenteurs du capital et les travailleurs. Dans la courte période, un amortissement fiscal accéléré est favorable à la croissance et peut stabiliser l’investissement lors d’une récession, mais est généralement néfaste à la redistribution. Le résultat inverse est obtenu pour la taxation des revenus du capital. Toutefois, quand le secteur privé et le gouvernement agissent de manière optimale, l’amortissement optimal du capital est maximal dans le long terme, puisque la distorsion induite par la taxation des revenus du capital est totalement compensée. De plus, la taxation optimale des revenus du capital et donc la redistribution, peuvent être non nulles. Cela dépend du poids dans la fonction d’utilité sociale des bénéficiaires de transferts sociaux, de la distribution des revenus avant impôt, de l’élasticité inter-temporelle de substitution et de la préférence pour le présent. Dès lors, l’amortissement accéléré, abondamment utilisé lors de la récente crise économique est aussi un instrument indirect de redistribution.
Verdissement de la fiscalité
Authors: Chiroleu-Assouline Mireille , Fodha Mouez
Published: May 2011

Résumé La littérature sur le double dividende étudie la poursuite simultanée de deux objectifs – l’amélioration de la qualité de l’environnement par l’instauration ou l’augmentation d’une taxe environnementale (premier dividende) et l’augmentation du bien-être social grâce à la diminution des distorsions provoquées par le reste du système fiscal (second dividende). Nous proposons d’aller au-delà des résultats usuels de la littérature, où le second dividende ne peut être atteint qu’au détriment d’un groupe d’agents qui doit supporter la charge de la taxe, en étudiant les conditions à réunir afin de concilier le double dividende avec des critères d’équité. La réforme doit donc atteindre trois objectifs : la qualité de l’environnement, l’efficacité économique ( i.e. le gain macroéconomique) et la Pareto amélioration. Cet objectif triple nécessite donc trois instruments : la taxe environnementale, la taxe sur les salaires et l’indice de progressivité fiscale. Nous montrons que les propriétés redistributives de la fiscalité sur les salaires sont un outil de correction des distorsions sociales induites par la politique environnementale. Nous proposons ainsi de recycler les recettes de la fiscalité carbone par une baisse non linéaire de l’impôt sur le revenu qui combine une réduction du taux d’imposition de la première tranche de l’impôt sur le revenu (ce qui bénéficie à tous les agents) et une hausse du taux des tranches supérieures (dont le coût sera supporté par les hauts revenus). Ce dernier mécanisme permet de compenser le caractère régressif de la fiscalité carbone.
Segmentation spatiale et choix de la forme fonctionnelle en modélisation hédonique
Authors: Dubé Jean , Des Rosiers François , Thériault Marius
Published: May 2011

Cet article propose différentes façons d’intégrer l’hétérogénéité spatiale dans l’équation de prix hédonique en utilisant un modèle emboîté. À partir d’une définition préalable de sous-marchés, différents types de modèles sont estimés pour la ville de Québec. Si les différentes options considérées sont au moins préférables à l’approche classique étant donné la variation spatiale de certaines contributions marginales des attributs résidentiels, rien n’indique pour autant que le modèle le plus désagrégé s’avère nécessairement le meilleur outil de modélisation. Nous montrons comment un modèle log-linéaire simple peut être amélioré en introduisant des effets fixes reliés aux différences structurelles et historiques des sous-marchés. Si cette approche ne règle pas en totalité les problèmes associés au modèle de prix hédonique classique, elle en diminue largement l’impact, tout en assurant une stabilité des coefficients associés aux attributs physiques de la propriété.
La gouvernance régionale du transport ferroviaire de voyageurs en France : une approche par la méthode des comptes de surplus
Authors: Desmaris Christian
Published: May 2011

Il y a dix ans, la loi SRU a ouvert une réforme ambivalente du système ferroviaire de transport de voyageurs en France. Elle préserve le monopole d’exploitation de l’opérateur historique, mais confie aux Régions la responsabilité d’autorité organisatrice. La théorie économique suggère que le monopole conduit à une capture de rente. Par la méthode des comptes de surplus, que nous déployons sur le compte de facturation SNCF-TER, nous montrons qu’en cette phase initiale, RFF est le principal bénéficiaire du surplus total disponible, loin devant les voyageurs tendanciellement bénéficiaires de la régionalisation ferroviaire. L’effet sur les collectivités publiques est plus équivoque. Si les Régions ont su maîtriser la frontière de prix de la subvention d’exploitation, hors péages, elles ont dû céder d’importants avantages au titre de la modernisation du matériel roulant. Une approche plus fine montre combien chaque Région constitue un « modèle économique du TER » particulier régi par un mode de gouvernance spécifique.
La coopération aéroportuaire au sein de l'Espace Métropolitain Loire-Bretagne : une réflexion à l'aide de la théorie des jeux
Authors: Carrard Michel
Published: May 2011

L’objet de cette note de recherche est d’étudier les relations stratégiques entre les aéroports des métropoles de Nantes, Saint-Nazaire, Angers, Rennes et Brest qui constituent l’Espace Métropolitain Loire-Bretagne (l’EMLB). Dans une perspective de modélisation réflexive, nous proposons un modèle de jeu coalitionnel constitué de trois aéroports visant à montrer que la coopération aéroportuaire, en ce qui concerne la gestion des passagers, est une stratégie possible. Les résultats du modèle servent ensuite à identifier les difficultés d’un tel choix stratégique dans le cadre de l’EMLB.
Valorisation des coproduits de la mer et territoire : enjeux territoriaux
Authors: Le Floc’h Pascal , Bourseau Patrick , Daurès Fabienne , Guérard Fabienne , Le Grel Laurent , Meunier Margot , Tuncel Mehmet
Published: May 2011

La problématique de cette réflexion repose sur l’analyse de la valorisation des coproduits de la mer, tenant compte de la dépendance des entreprises de transformation à l’égard du territoire. Les premiers résultats d’une enquête réalisée dans le nord de la Bretagne permettent d’évaluer les flux des produits traités et la quantité de coproduits générés. La dépendance de la valorisation biotechnologique des coproduits au territoire de la production primaire est analysée. A cet égard, l’ouverture au commerce international des marchés des produits de la mer doit être prise en compte car elle modifie les stratégies de localisation des entreprises de transformation. Le lien historique des acteurs avec leur territoire (pêcheurs, halle à marée, transformateurs) est donc à reconsidérer.
Intestinal health functions of colonic microbial metabolites: a review
Authors: Havenaar R.
Published: May 2011

This review tries to find a scientific answer on the following two questions: (1) to what extent do we understand the specific role of colonic microbial metabolites, especially short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), in maintaining the health status and prevention of diseases of the colon and the host; (2) to what extent can we influence or even control the formation of colonic microbial metabolites which are beneficial for the health status. The review focuses on the following topics: energy source, intestinal motility, defence barrier, oxidative stress with special attention for antiinflammatory and anti-carcinogen functions, and satiety. Also the risk of overproduction of SCFA is discussed. Reviewing the literature as present today, it can be concluded that physiological levels of SCFA are vital for the health and well-being of the host and that the presence of carbohydrates (dietary fibre, prebiotics) is essential to favour the metabolic activity in the direction of carbohydrate fermentation. For optimal motor activity of the ileum and colon, to regulate the physiological intestinal mobility, steadily fermentable dietary fibres or prebiotics are crucial. The formation of SCFA, especially propionate and butyrate, up to high physiological levels in the colon, much likely also contributes to the defence mechanisms of the intestinal wall. No final answer can be given yet about the role of SCFA in anti-inflammation and anti-carcinogenicity, but recently published research shows possible mechanisms in this field. The intake of prebiotics or specific dietary fibres promotes the formation of SCFA within the physiological range, and more or less specifically increases the levels of propionate and butyrate. In this way, they provide benefit to the host, especially the natural regulation of the digestive system.
Mushrooms versus fungi: natural compounds from Lentinula edodes inhibit aflatoxin biosynthesis by Aspergillus parasiticus
Authors: Reverberi M. , Zjalic S. , Ricelli A. , Di Meo C. , Scarpari M. , Fanelli C. , Fabbri A.
Published: May 2011

Although the strategies routinely adopted to limit production of carcinogenic aflatoxins by Aspergillus parasiticus
and Aspergillus flavus in foods and feeds can be quite effective, they are often neither environmentally friendly, nor
non-toxic for end users. Polysaccharides and glycoproteins, particularly β-glucans from the basidiomycete Lentinula
edodes, already known for their health-promoting effects on animals and humans, have previously demonstrated
the ability to inhibit aflatoxin biosynthesis by stimulating the antioxidant defences of the toxigenic fungus. Here
the results of a study regarding the influence on polysaccharide production by L. edodes of oxidative stress induced
using paraquat (PQ) treatment are reported. Paraquat 0.5 and 1 mM resulted in an enhancement of the expression
of the β-glucan synthase gene Lefks1 and a consequent stimulating effect (about 30-35%) on β-glucans production.
Moreover, oxidative-stress (PQ) induced polysaccharides have a higher aflatoxin inhibiting capacity in two different
strains of A. parasiticus in comparison with non-induced polysaccharides. This more efficient inhibition might be
explained by a higher content of β-glucans because 1H-NMR analysis revealed no obvious qualitative differences
between PQ-induced and non-induced polysaccharides. The results obtained show promise for improving the
quantity and efficiency of L. edodes extracts in order to achieve enhanced control over aflatoxin biosynthesis in
foods and feeds using health-promoting and environmentally-friendly compounds.
Fumonisin elimination and prospects for detoxification by enzymatic transformation
Authors: Hartinger D. , Moll W.
Published: May 2011

A technology to efficiently reduce the concentration of carcinogenic and toxic fumonisins in food and feed would
be desirable. This class of mycotoxins is produced by the maize pathogen Fusarium verticillioides and other fungi.
Fumonisins are frequently found in maize from the warm growing regions of the world, sometimes in considerable
concentrations. Their molecular similarity with sphingolipids enables their binding to mammalian ceramide
synthase, and the resulting interference with sphingolipid metabolism. Recently, we reported on a cluster of genes
of Sphingopyxis sp. MTA144 which enables this alphaproteobacterium to degrade fumonisins. These and the
previously known fumonisin catabolism genes and enzymes from the black yeast Exophiala spinifera and from
bacterium ATCC 55552 allow the consideration of prospects for enzymatic detoxification of fumonisins in food
and feed. All the known fumonisin catabolism pathways start by hydrolytic release of the two tricarballylic acid
side chains, followed by removal of the 2-amino group from the core chain by different enzymatic mechanisms.
The potential for application of feed enzymes for fumonisin detoxification in the gastrointestinal tract of animals
is discussed, and possible applications in processing of maize for feed or food are also considered. To be able to
evaluate the requirement for, and potential of, a new, enzyme-based fumonisin detoxification technology, an overview
of the state of the art of fumonisin elimination and the known chemical reactions of fumonisins in processing or
decontamination is also given. There is a special focus on the toxicity of hydrolysed fumonisins, because they can
be generated from fumonisins both by an established, traditional method of maize processing, nixtamalisation, and
by enzymatic biotransformation. As a complement to other approaches, enzymatic degradation of fumonisins to
ameliorate the health risk of contaminated maize for animals, and possibly also for humans, seems feasible.
Delapparentia turolensis nov. gen et sp., un nuevo dinosaurio iguanodontoideo (Ornithischia: Ornithopoda) en el Cretácico Inferior de Galve
Authors: Ruiz-Omeñaca J. I.
Published: May 2011

Se redescribe un esqueleto postcraneal de dinosaurio ornitópodo asignado por Albert de Lapparent en 1960 a Iguanodon bernissartensis. Procede del yacimiento de La Maca 3, de edad Barremiense inferior (Formación Camarillas), y consta de varias vértebras cervicales, restos de la serie dorsal y sacra, varias vértebras caudales, fragmentos de costillas cervicales, dorsales, y esternales, chevrones y tendones osificados, y la hemipelvis izquierda incompleta. Se ha identificado como un «iguanodóntido» (i.e. un Iguanodontoidea no Hadrosauridae) por la presencia de una lámina prepubica alta y la ausencia de antitrocánter en el ilion. Se propone a partir de este material un nuevo taxón de iguanodontoideo, Delapparentia turolensis nov. gen et sp., caracterizado por las siguientes autapomorfías: 1) costillas dorsales posteriores con capítulo y tubérculo no fusionados, 2) costillas esternales osificadas, y 3) ilion con el proceso preacetabular torsionado y expandido lateromedialmente (compartida con Zalmoxes). Además presenta una combinación de costillas dorsales anteriores con un foramen neumático, e isquion grande en relación al ilion.
Equipamiento y metodología para la determinación de la vida de materiales para moldes
Authors: Abuin A. , Galarraga H. , Crespo I. , Plaza L. M. , Carnicer P. , Vicario I. , García J. C.
Published: May 2011

Los moldes empleados en la fundición inyectada de metales no férreos tienen una vida útil limitada, debido al deterioro del molde, que se manifiesta en forma de grietas superficiales. Dichas grietas son causadas, fundamentalmente, por el fenómeno de fatiga térmica, debido a los sucesivos ciclos de calentamiento-enfriamiento de la superficie del molde durante su trabajo. La exigencia de mejorar los materiales para alargar la vida de los moldes, hace necesario el desarrollo de nuevos equipamientos para evaluar su comportamiento durante los ciclos de trabajo. INASMETTECNALIA, en colaboración con la FEAF (Federación Española de Asociaciones de Fundidores), ha desarrollado una máquina para determinar el comportamiento de los aceros empleados para la fabricación de moldes frente al fenómeno de la fatiga térmica. La máquina de ensayos es capaz de ensayar cuarenta probetas simultáneamente, constituyendo una gran ventaja respecto a las máquinas desarrolladas anteriormente. Su versatilidad, en cuanto a los sistemas de calentamiento y enfriamiento, hace posible que se puedan ensayar todo tipo de materiales, en diferentes condiciones de fatiga térmica.
Composites con refuerzos naturales para aplicaciones en automoción y construcción
Authors: Elizetxea C. , Gurmendi U. , Pijoan T.
Published: May 2011

La evidencia del agotamiento de las reservas de crudo a nivel mundial junto con el cumplimiento de exigencias medioambientales, cada vez más estrictas, llevan a considerar, cada vez en mayor escala, la necesidad de la utilización de materias primas renovables para el diseño y fabricación de nuevos componentes del vehículo. El objetivo principal de este trabajo se centra en la evaluación de materiales, como la harina de pino y la harina de maíz, para ser utilizados como elementos de refuerzo y ser combinados con diferentes matrices termoplásticas de polipropileno. La definición y puesta a punto de un proceso de compatibilización ha hecho posible la formulación de estas harinas con tres matrices comerciales de base PP. Una posterior selección de material se ha llevada a cabo con el fin de determinar los materiales para la fabricación de una pieza prototipo.
Procesado por fricción batida (FSP): afino de la microestructura y mejora de propiedades
Authors: McNelley T. R.
Published: May 2011

Se revisa el procesado por fricción batida (FSP) como un aliado tecnológico de la soldadura por fricción batida (FSW) y se introducen consideraciones adicionales tales como el patrón de procesado y el paso en función de la distancia. Se describe la aplicación de FSP al material AA5083 por colada continua en la condición de colada y se documenta el grado de afino de grano y homogeneización de la microestructura. La respuesta de superplasticidad inducida por FSP se compara con la respuesta de la aleación AA5083 procesada convencionalmente y la mejora de ductilidad del material FSP se relaciona con el afino de grano y la homogeneización de la microestructura.
An Evolutionarily Conserved TNF-α–Responsive Enhancer in the Far Upstream Region of Human CCL2 Locus Influences Its Gene Expression
Authors: Bonello Grégory B. , Pham Minh-Hieu , Begum Kazi , Sigala Jose , Sataranatarajan Kavithalakshmi , Mummidi Srinivas
Published: May 2011

Comparative cross-species genomic analysis has served as a powerful tool to discover novel noncoding regulatory regions that influence gene expression in several cytokine loci. In this study, we have identified several evolutionarily conserved regions (ECRs) that are shared between human, rhesus monkey, dog, and horse and that are upstream of the promoter regions that have been previously shown to play a role in regulating CCL2 gene expression. Of these, an ECR that was ∼16.5 kb (−16.5 ECR) upstream of its coding sequence contained a highly conserved NF-κB site. The region encompassing the −16.5 ECR conferred TNF-α responsiveness to homologous and heterologous promoters. In vivo footprinting demonstrated that specific nucleotide residues in the –16.5 ECR were protected or became hypersensitive after TNF-α treatment. The footprinted regions were found to bind NF-κB subunits in vitro and in vivo. Mutation/deletion of the conserved NF-κB binding site in the −16.5 ECR led to loss of TNF-α responsiveness. After TNF-α stimulation, the –16.5 ECR showed increased sensitivity to nuclease digestion and loss of histone signatures that are characteristic of a repressive chromatin. Chromosome conformation capture assays indicated that –16.5 ECR physically interacts with the CCL2 proximal promoter after TNF-α stimulation. Taken together, these results suggest that the −16.5 ECR may play a critical role in the regulation of CCL2.
IL-32γ Induces the Maturation of Dendritic Cells with Th1- and Th17-Polarizing Ability through Enhanced IL-12 and IL-6 Production
Authors: Jung Mi Young , Son Mi Hye , Kim Soo Hyun , Cho Daeho , Kim Tae Sung
Published: May 2011

IL-32, a newly described multifunctional cytokine, has been associated with a variety of inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, and Crohn’s disease. In this study, we investigated the immunomodulatory effects of IL-32γ on bone marrow-derived dendritic cell (DC)-driven Th responses and analyzed the underlying signaling events. IL-32γ–treated DCs exhibited upregulated expression of cell-surface molecules and proinflammatory cytokines associated with DC maturation and activation. In particular, IL-32γ treatment significantly increased production of IL-12 and IL-6 in DCs, which are known as Th1- and Th17-polarizing cytokines, respectively. This increased production was inhibited by the addition of specific inhibitors of the activities of phospholipase C (PLC), JNK, and NF-κB. IL-32γ treatment increased the phosphorylation of JNK and the degradation of both IκBα and IκBβ in DCs, as well as NF-κB binding activity to the κB site. The PLC inhibitor suppressed NF-κB DNA binding activity and JNK phosphorylation increased by IL-32γ treatment, thereby indicating that IL-32γ induced IL-12 and IL-6 production in DCs via a PLC/JNK/NF-κB signaling pathway. Importantly, IL-32γ–stimulated DCs significantly induced both Th1 and Th17 responses when cocultured with CD4+ T cells. The addition of a neutralizing anti–IL-12 mAb abolished the secretion of IFN-γ in a dose-dependent manner; additionally, the blockage of IL-1β and IL-6, but not of IL-21 or IL-23p19, profoundly inhibited IL-32γ–induced IL-17 production. These results demonstrated that IL-32γ could effectively induce the maturation and activation of immature DCs, leading to enhanced Th1 and Th17 responses as the result of increased IL-12 and IL-6 production in DCs.
Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Is an Important Regulator of Cutaneous Immunity: Effect on Dendritic Cell and T Cell Functions
Authors: Mikami Norihisa , Matsushita Hiroaki , Kato Tetsuya , Kawasaki Rumi , Sawazaki Taichi , Kishimoto Taeko , Ogitani Yusuke , Watanabe Keiko , Miyagi Yayoi , Sueda Kaori , Fukada So-ichiro , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Tsujikawa Kazutake
Published: May 2011

Some cutaneous inflammations are induced by percutaneous exposure to foreign Ags, and many chemical mediators regulate this inflammation process. One of these mediators, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), is a neuropeptide released from nerve endings in the skin. CGRP binds to its receptors composed of receptor activity-modifying protein 1 and calcitonin receptor-like receptor to modulate immune cell function. We show that CGRP regulates skin inflammation under physiological conditions, using contact hypersensitivity (CHS) models of receptor activity-modifying protein 1–deficient mice. CGRP has different functions in CHS responses mediated by Th1 or Th2 cells; it inhibits Th1-type CHS, such as 2,4,6-trinitrochlorobenzene–induced CHS, but promotes Th2-type CHS, such as FITC-induced CHS. CGRP inhibits the migration of Langerin+ dermal dendritic cells to the lymph nodes in 2,4,6-trinitrochlorobenzene–induced CHS, and upregulates IL-4 production of T cells in the draining lymph nodes in FITC-CHS. These findings suggest that CGRP regulates several types of CHS reactions under physiological conditions and plays an important role in cutaneous immunity.
Bilateral Tuberculate Supernumerary Teeth
Authors: Eigbobo Joycelyn Odegua , Osagbemiro Babatope Bamidele
Published: May 2011

Supernumerary teeth are teeth in excess of the normal series occurring in any region of the dental arch. They are located mostly in the anterior maxillary region and are classified according to their location and morphology. The tuberculate type of supernumerary tooth possesses more than one cusp or tubercle (barrel shaped). It is rare to find bilateral tuberculate supernumerary teeth in the premaxillary region and when found they rarely erupt. This report describes a 13-year-old boy with erupted palatally placed bilateral tuberculate supernumerary teeth. The presence of these supernumerary teeth led to the labial displacement and rotations of the anterior maxillary teeth. The treatment involved extraction of the supernumerary teeth and a referral for orthodontic management of the crowding, displacement and rotations. The occurrence of erupted palatally placed tuberculate anterior teeth in this case is a rare experience. However, the associated orthodontic problems are within familiar spectrum.
Significance of Histopathology in Leprosy Patients with 1–5 Skin Lesions with Relevance to Therapy
Authors: Veena S , Kumar Prakash , P. Shashikala , H. Gurubasavaraj , Chandrasekhar H R ,   Murugesh
Published: May 2011

Background: Patients with 1-5 skin lesions are clinically categorized as paucibacillary for treatment purposes. For betterment and adequate treatment of patients, this grouping needs further study.

Aim: To study a group of leprosy patients with 1-5 skin lesions, compare clinical details with histopathological findings and bacteriological status of the skin to evaluate the relevance of this grouping.

Materials and Methods: Two-year study involving 31 patients of leprosy with 1-5 skin lesions was included in this study. A number of skin lesions were recorded. Skin biopsies were taken in all patients. The biopsies were evaluated for the type of pathology and acid fast bacilli (AFB) status.

Results: Of 31 patients, 19 (61.2%) had single skin lesion, 7 (22.5%) had two lesions, 4 (12.9%) had three lesions, and only one (3.22%) had four lesions, there were no patients with five lesions. Of the 31 patients, 30 (96.7%) were clinically diagnosed as borderline tuberculoid and one patient (3.22%) has tuberculoid leprosy. Skin smears were negative for AFB in all patients. The histological diagnoses were: TT 1 (3.22%), BT 24 (77.41%), and IL 6 (19.2%). AFB were found in 2 (6.45%) out of 31 skin biopsies. Clinicopathological correlation was 76.6% in the BT group.

Conclusion: Tissue biopsy findings in 1-5 skin lesions which were not considered relevant for treatment purposes until now should be given a status in the categorization and assessment of severity of the disease. The significance of finding of AFB and histopathology of multibacillary (MB) type of leprosy in tissue biopsies, in patients grouped as PB should be resolved so that patients could be given the drug therapy and duration of therapy they warrant.
An Association Between Hypoplastic Myelodysplastic Syndrome
and T-Prolymphocytic Leukaemia
Authors: A. Arathi C , R. Puttaraj K , N. Shobha S
Published: May 2011

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) represents one of the most challenging health-related problems in the elderly, characterized by dysplastic morphology in the bone marrow in association with ineffective hematopoiesis. Hypoplastic MDS (h-MDS) accounts for 12-17% of all patients with MDS and has yet to be shown to alter the disease course or prognosis. The concept that T-cell-mediated autoimmunity contributes to bone marrow failure in MDS has been widely accepted due to hematologic improvement after immunosuppressive therapy. T-cell expansion is known to occur in these patients, but development of chronic T-cell disorders, especially T-prolymphocytic leukemia (PLL) in a hypocellular MDS is extremely rare, which has an aggressive course. The possible explanation for the association between the two disorders is that T-PLL might arise from a clonally arranged MDS stem cell. We report a unique case of h-MDS with non-progressive pancytopenia and severe hypocellular marrow for 2 years, followed by T-PLL within few months.
Epignathus with Fetiform Features
Authors: Y. Kumar Sunil , U. Shrikrishna , Shetty Jayaprakash , Sitaram Aishwarya
Published: May 2011

Epignathus is an extremely rare oropharyngeal teratoma that commonly arises from the palate, leading to a high mortality (80-100%) due to airway obstruction in the neonatal period. We present a case of epignathus immature teratoma with fetiform features, originating from basisphenoid in a 28-week preterm male baby, who succumbed to death immediately after birth. Since epignathus is a life-threatening condition at the time of delivery, a prenatal diagnosis is essential to coordinate the treatment and appropriate management by securing the airway, either by endotracheal intubation or tracheostomy followed by complete resection of the tumor.
Retromastoid-sub occipital: A novel approach to cerebello pontine angle in acoustic neuroma surgery-our experience in 21 cases
Authors: Naya PK , Kumar RVS
Published: May 2011

Background: Acoustic neuroma surgery poses significant challenges regarding definite management and preservation of hearing and the facial nerve are of great concern. Aim: To analyze the efficacy of the retromastoid approach in acoustic neuroma surgery. Materials and Methods: Tumors operated between January 2002 and December 2008, by the authors, using the retromastoid approach, were analyzed. Twenty-one patients who presented with acoustic tumor were considered for this study. Discussion: Precise knowledge of the neuroanatomy in the cerebellopontine angle is the key to success and microsurgical technique is the sole factor for good outcome. Conclusion: Retromastoid, in fact is the approach to the skull base with minimal or no damage to neurovascular structures, in contrast to the translabyrinthine or presigmoid approach.
Quality of life in patients with epilepsy in India
Authors: Shetty Pushparaja H , Punith K , Naik Ravishankar K , Saroja AO
Published: May 2011

Background: People with epilepsy have impairment in their quality of life (QOL) due to effect of epilepsy on various aspects of their life and the medication effects. Systematic studies on QOL in epilepsy from developing countries are sparse. Objectives: To assess the QOL in people with epilepsy and to evaluate various factors affecting the QOL in them. Materials and Methods: People with generalized and partial epilepsy on medication aged more than 18 years were included in the study. The QOL was assessed with QOLIE-89 instrument. Statistical significance was evaluated by the use of Chi-square test and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: Sixty people with epilepsy were studied among whom the older patients had lower overall QOL scores compared to younger patients. Female patients had lower scores compared to males. Married people had lower quality of health score. Patients with simple partial seizures had lowest overall QOL mean score. There was reduction in the overall QOLIE scores with increasing duration of the epilepsy. Patients who had their last seizure within 10 months prior to evaluation had lower mean overall scores. Conclusion: QOL was impaired in people with epilepsy with increased impairment in women, older patients, simple partial seizures, and those with recent seizure.
Tuberculous lumbar arachnoiditis mimicking conus cauda tumor: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Konar Subhas K , Narasinga Rao KVL , Mahadevan Anita , Devi B Indira
Published: May 2011

Tuberculous spinal arachnoiditis involving cauda equina is rare. A patient with lumbar tuberculous arachnoiditis in the absence of both vertebral and meningeal tuberculosis, which was mimicking spinal intradural extramedullary tumor is described here. Diagnosis was made based on intraoperative fi ndings and was confi rmed by histopathology. Surgical decompression along with a combination of steroid and antitubercular therapy resulted in a good outcome. At 3 months follow-up, the patient regained bladder control and was able to walk with support. Clinical features, magnetic resonance imaging, and intraoperative fi ndings are described. Pathology and the relevant literature are discussed. Based on the patient’s clinical and radiologic fi ndings, it was believed that the patient had a conus cauda tumor and was operated on. Histologic examination of the mass revealed tuberculoma. Surgical decompression followed by antituberculosis medication resulted in good outcome. Hence tuberculous arachnoiditis should be considered in diff erential diagnosis of conus cauda tumors.
Effect of plant extracts on Alzheimer’s disease: An insight into therapeutic avenues
Authors: Obulesu M , Rao Dowlathabad Muralidhara
Published: May 2011

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a devastative neurodegenerative disorder which needs adequate studies on effective treatment options. The extracts of plants and their effect on the amelioration of AD symptoms have been extensively studied. This paper summarizes the mechanisms like acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition, modifi cation of monoamines, antiamyloid aggregation effect, and antioxidant activity which are actively entailed in the process of amelioration of AD symptoms. These effects are induced by extracts of a few plants of different origin like Yizhi Jiannao, Moringaoleifera (Drumstick tree), Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo/Maidenhair tree), Cassia obtisufolia (Sicklepod), Desmodium gangeticum (Sal Leaved Desmodium), Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm), and Salvia officinalis (Garden sage, common sage).
Sporadic cerebral amyloid angiopathy: An important cause of cerebral hemorrhage in the elderly
Authors: Bano Shahina , Yadav Sachchida Nand , Garga Umesh Chandra , Chaudhary Vikas
Published: May 2011

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is an important cause of primary intracerebral hemorrhage (PICH) in the elderly. Although there are no pathognomic clinical features of CAA-related PICH, the association of white matter changes with lobar, recurrent, or multiple simultaneous hemorrhages in older patients should raise the suspicion of its diagnosis. A defi nitive diagnosis of CAA requires pathologic examination of the aff ected tissue. However, with modern imaging techniques, it is possible to diagnose the “probable CAA” in patients presenting with PICH. Gradient-echo magnetic resonance imaging is a very sensitive, noninvasive technique for identifying microhemorrhages in life. The diagnosis of CAA is important because of the likely implication it has on future management targeted to reduce risk of future bleeding.
A case of a massive mandibular schwannoma
Authors: Shetty Shishir Ram , Rao Prasanna Kumar , Chatra Laxmikanth , Shenai Prashanth
Published: May 2011

Schwannoma, a benign nerve sheath tumor is relatively rare in occurrence and even rarer in sites, such as jaw bones. There are only 45 reported cases of intraosseous schwannoma of the jaws reported in the literature. We report a rare case of mandibular schwannoma in a 50-year-old Indian male. The clinical features resembled that of a residual cyst, fibroosseous lesion or an odontogenic tumor/cyst. Radiological differential diagnoses of ameloblastoma or odontogenic keratocyst was made based on the findings of the orthopantomogram. The lesion was examined histopathologically and a final diagnosis of schwannoma arising from the inferior alveolar nerve was made. The aim of this report is to add information to the existing sparse literature on intraosseous schwannomas of the jaw.
Painful tic convulsif syndrome due to vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia
Authors: Mittal Puneet , Mittal Gaurav
Published: May 2011

Combined clinical presentation of hemifacial spasm and ipsilateral trigeminal neuralgia is also known as painful tic convulsif (PTC). It is a rare condition and the most common cause is vascular compression. Vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia (VBD) is characterized by dilated and tortuous vertebral and basilar arteries. VBD is an uncommon and rarely reported cause of PTC. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), due to its inherent excellent contrast resolution, is an excellent modality for demonstrating the nerve compression by dilated and tortuous vessels seen in this condition. For this purpose, 3D MRI sequences are especially useful like constructive interference in steady state (CISS) and MR angiography. Both of these have been reported to be helpful in the diagnosis of this condition. We report a case of PTC in which we were able to document facial and trigeminal nerve compression by VBD on MRI, using CISS and time-of-fl ight MR angiography.
Musculocutaneous nerve substituting for the distal part of radial nerve: A case report and its embryological basis
Authors: Yogesh AS , Marathe RR , Pandit SV
Published: May 2011

In the present case, we have reported a unilateral variation of the radial and musculocutaneous nerves on the left side in a 64-year-old male cadaver. The radial nerve supplied all the heads of the triceps brachii muscle and gave cutaneous branches such as lower lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm and posterior cutaneous nerve of forearm. The radial nerve ended without continuing further. The musculocutaneous nerve supplied the brachioradialis, extensor carpi radialis longus and extensor carpi radialis brevis muscles. The musculocutaneous nerve divided terminally into two branches, superfi cial and deep. The deep branch of musculocutaneous nerve corresponded to usual deep branch of the radial nerve while the superfi cial branch of musculocutaneous nerve corresponded to usual superfi cial branch of the radial nerve. The dissection was continued to expose the entire brachial plexus from its origin and it was found to be normal. The structures on the right upper limb were found to be normal. Surgeons should keep such variations in mind while performing the surgeries of the upper limb.
Ureteritis Cystica: A Radiologic Pathologic Correlation
Authors: Rothschild Jennifer G , Wu Guan
Published: May 2011

Ureteritis cystica (UC) is a benign condition that commonly affects the ureter and can mimic other conditions such as transitional cell carcinoma, blood clots, air bubbles, radiolucent stones, fibroepithelial polyps, and sloughed renal papillae. Radiographically, UC is characterized by multiple small, round, lucent defects, which cause scalloping of the ureteral margins when seen in profile. The scalloping is produced by the projection of the submucosal cysts into the lumen and represents an important differential feature of this disease. We present a case of UC with a radiological pathological correlation.
Photoacoustic Imaging: Opening New Frontiers in Medical Imaging
Authors: Valluru Keerthi S , Chinni Bhargava K , Rao Navalgund A
Published: May 2011

In today's world, technology is advancing at an exponential rate and medical imaging is no exception. During the last hundred years, the field of medical imaging has seen a tremendous technological growth with the invention of imaging modalities including but not limited to X-ray, ultrasound, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography, and single-photon emission computed tomography. These tools have led to better diagnosis and improved patient care. However, each of these modalities has its advantages as well as disadvantages and none of them can reveal all the information a physician would like to have. In the last decade, a new diagnostic technology called photoacoustic imaging has evolved which is moving rapidly from the research phase to the clinical trial phase. This article outlines the basics of photoacoustic imaging and describes our hands-on experience in developing a comprehensive photoacoustic imaging system to detect tissue abnormalities.
The Continuous Dependence on the Nonlinearities of Solutions of Fast Diffusion Equations
Authors: Pan Jiaqing
Published: May 2011

In this paper, we consider the Cauchy problem

We will prove that

(i) for mc < m,m0 < 1, |u(x, t, m)–u(x, t, m0)| → 0 as m → m0 uniformly on every compact subset of ℝN × ℝ+, where ;

(ii) there is a C* that explicitly depends on m such that