bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epitope spreading to citrullinated antigens in mouse models of autoimmune arthritis and demyelination
Authors: Kidd Brian A , Ho Peggy P , Sharpe Orr , Zhao Xiaoyan , Tomooka Beren H , Kanter Jennifer L , Steinman Lawrence , Robinson William H
Published: September 2008

Introduction

Anti-citrullinated protein antibodies have a diagnostic role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, little is known about their origins and contribution to pathogenesis. Citrullination is the post-translational conversion of arginine to citrulline by peptidyl arginine deiminase, and increased citrullination of proteins is observed in the joint tissue in RA and in brain tissue in multiple sclerosis (MS).

Methods

We applied synovial and myelin protein arrays to examine epitope spreading of B cell responses to citrullinated epitopes in both the collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model for RA and the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model for MS. Synovial and myelin protein arrays contain a spectrum of proteins and peptides, including native and citrullinated forms, representing candidate autoantigens in RA and MS, respectively. We applied these arrays to characterise the specificity of autoantibodies in serial serum samples derived from mice with acute and chronic stages of CIA and EAE.

Results

In samples from pre-disease CIA and acute-disease EAE, we observed autoantibody targeting of the immunising antigen and responses to a limited set of citrullinated epitopes. Over the course of diseases, the autoantibody responses expanded to target multiple citrullinated epitopes in both CIA and EAE. Using immunoblotting and mass spectrometry analysis, we identified citrullination of multiple polypeptides in CIA joint and EAE brain tissue that have not previously been described as citrullinated.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that anti-citrulline antibody responses develop in the early stages of CIA and EAE, and that autoimmune inflammation results in citrullination of joint proteins in CIA and brain proteins in EAE, thereby creating neoantigens that become additional targets in epitope spreading of autoimmune responses.
Phosphorylated EGFR and PI3K/Akt signaling kinases are expressed in circulating tumor cells of breast cancer patients
Authors: Kallergi Galatea , Agelaki Sofia , Kalykaki Antonia , Stournaras Christos , Mavroudis Dimitris , Georgoulias Vassilis
Published: September 2008

Introduction

The phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway, operating downstream of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)2, is implicated in cell migration and survival. EGFR and HER2 are expressed in circulating tumor cells, but the activation status of downstream signaling molecules has not yet been reported.

Methods

To investigate expression levels of EGFR, HER2, PI3K, and Akt in circulating tumor cells, we used peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 32 cytokeratin-19 mRNA-positive patients with early (n = 16) and metastatic (n = 16) breast cancer.

Peripheral blood mononuclear cell cytospins were double stained with cytokeratin antibody along with one of the following: EGFR, phospho-EGFR, HER2, phospho-PI3K, or phospho-Akt antibodies.

Results

EGFR and HER2 were expressed in circulating tumor cells of 38% and 50% patients with early and 44% and 63% patients with metastatic disease, respectively. Interestingly, phospho-PI3K and phospho-Akt expression levels were similar at 88% (14 out of 16) and 81% (13 out of 16), respectively, in circulating tumor cells of patients with early and metastatic disease. Phospho-EGFR was observed in circulating tumor cells of two (33%) early and six (86%) metastatic EGFR-positive patients. Immunomagnetic separation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, using EpCAM antibody, and subsequent double-staining experiments of circulating tumor cells showed that EGFR was co-expressed with HER2, phospho-Akt and phospho-PI3K kinases, indicating activation of the corresponding survival signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that circulating tumor cells express receptors and activated signaling kinases of the EGFR/HER2/PI3K/Akt pathway, which could be used as targets for their effective elimination.
Wnt signalling in human breast cancer: expression of the putative Wnt inhibitor Dickkopf-3 (DKK3) is frequently suppressed by promoter hypermethylation in mammary tumours
Authors: Veeck Jürgen , Bektas Nuran , Hartmann Arndt , Kristiansen Glen , Heindrichs Uwe , Knüchel Ruth , Dahl Edgar
Published: September 2008

Introduction

Expression of the putative Wnt signalling inhibitor Dickkopf-3 (DKK3) is frequently lost in human cancer tissues because of aberrant 5'-cytosine methylation within the DKK3 gene promoter. Since other Wnt signalling inhibitors have been reported to be targets of epigenetic inactivation in human breast cancer, we questioned if DKK3 expression is also epigenetically silenced during breast carcinogenesis and therefore might contribute to oncogenic Wnt signalling commonly found in this disease.

Methods

DKK3 mRNA expression and DKK3 promoter methylation were determined by RT-PCR, realtime PCR and methylation-specific PCR in breast cell lines (n = 9), normal breast tissues (n = 19) and primary breast carcinomas (n = 150), respectively. In vitro DNA demethylation was performed by incubating breast cell lines with 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine and trichostatin A. DKK3 protein expression was analysed by immunohistochemistry in breast carcinomas (n = 16) and normal breast tissues (n = 8). Methylation data were statistically correlated with clinical patient characteristics. All statistical evaluations were performed with SPSS 14.0 software.

Results

DKK3 mRNA was downregulated in 71% (five of seven) of breast cancer cell lines and in 68% of primary breast carcinomas (27 of 40) compared with benign cell lines and normal breast tissues, respectively. A DNA demethylating treatment of breast cell lines resulted in strong induction of DKK3 mRNA expression. In tumourous breast tissues, DKK3 mRNA downregulation was significantly associated with DKK3 promoter methylation (p < 0.001). Of the breast carcinomas, 61% (92 of 150) revealed a methylated DKK3 promoter, whereas 39% (58 of 150) retained an unmethylated promoter. Loss of DKK3 expression in association with DKK3 promoter methylation (p = 0.001) was also confirmed at the protein level (p < 0.001). In bivariate analysis, DKK3 promoter methylation was not associated with investigated clinicopathological parameters except patient age (p = 0.007).

Conclusions

DKK3 mRNA expression and consequently DKK3 protein expression become frequently downregulated during human breast cancer development due to aberrant methylation of the DKK3 promoter. Since DKK3 is thought to negatively regulate oncogenic Wnt signalling, DKK3 may be a potential tumour suppressor gene in normal breast tissue.
Review of the activation of TGF-β in immunity
Authors: Taylor Andrew W
Published: September 2008

The evolutionarily conserved TGF-β proteins are distributed ubiquitously throughout the body and have a role in almost every biological process. In immunity, TGF-β has an important role in modulating immunity. Much is understood about the process of TGF-β production as a latent molecule and of the consequences and the intercellular signaling of active TGF-β binding to its receptors; however, there is little discussed between the production and activation of TGF-β. This review focuses on what is understood about the biochemical and physiological processes of TGF-β activation and identifies the gaps in understanding immune cell activation of TGF-β. A mechanistic understanding of the process activating TGF-β can lead to regulating multiple biological systems by enhancing or inhibiting TGF-β activation.
Serum levels of P-selectin in men with high-functioning autism
Authors: Iwata Yasuhide , Tsuchiya Kenji J. , Mikawa Sumiko , Nakamura Kazuhiko , Takai Yoshifumi , Suda Shiro , Sekine Yoshimoto , Suzuki Katsuaki , Kawai Masayoshi , Sugihara Genichi , Matsuzaki Hideo , Hashimoto Kenji , Tsujii Masatsugu , Sugiyama Toshiro , Takei Nori , Mori Norio
Published: September 2008

Immune dysfunction has been proposed as a mechanism for the pathophysiology of autistic-spectrum disorders. The selectin family of adhesion molecules plays a prominent role in immune/inflammatory responses. We determined the serum levels of three types of soluble-form selectin (sP, sL and sE) in 15 men with high-functioning autism and 22 age-matched healthy controls by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Levels of sP-selectin and sL-selectin were significantly lower in patients than in controls. Furthermore, sP-selectin levels were negatively correlated with impaired social development during early childhood.
Crisis resolution/home treatment teams, gate-keeping and the role of the consultant psychiatrist
Authors: Middleton Hugh , Glover Gyles , Onyett Steve , Linde Karen
Published: September 2008

Aims and Method

The working relationship between consultant psychiatrists and crisis resolution/home treatment (CRHT) teams varies quite widely. Data from the national survey have been used to investigate the effects of consultant psychiatrist intput upon functions of the CRHT team. Logistic regression was employed to consider the effects of team size, team maturity and consultant input upon gate-keeping and fidelity to model (how many of six criteria teams' activities included).

Results

There were statistically significant effects of size and maturity upon fidelity, and of maturity and consultant input upon gate-keeping.

Clinical Implications

The relationship between the consultant psychiatrist and other elements of the acute care pathway is an important determinant of how it functions. Depending upon how they relate to them, consultants can assist or hinder a team's capacity to fulfill their intended purposes.
Progress on NICE guideline implementation in mental health trusts: meta-analyses
Authors: Mears Alex , Kendall Tim , Strathdee Geraldine , Sinfield Robert , Aldridge Ian
Published: September 2008

Aims and Method

To investigate implementation of National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines in mental health, focusing on the schizophrenia guideline. Data analyses centred on implementation of the guideline, as well as looking at a set of markers mapped to the NICE principles of implementation and other identified clinical prerequisites. A self-report questionnaire tool was sent to senior executives at mental health trusts containing questions linked to the markers of implementation and clinical prerequisites; responses were analysed with data from the Healthcare Commission audit of implementation of the guideline to show key relationships.

Results

Information from both data-sets (senior executive data collection and the audit) showed that implementation is patchy, with pockets of good implementation. Findings indicate that higher levels of implementation are linked to corporate commitment and leadership, as well as support from commissioners.

Clinical Implications

Implementation might be improved by corporate commitment and leadership and better support from commissioners.
Phase I and Pharmacokinetic Study of YM155, a Small-Molecule Inhibitor of Survivin
Authors: Tolcher Anthony W. , Mita Alain , Lewis Lionel D. , Garrett Christopher R. , Till Elizabeth , Daud Adil I. , Patnaik Amita , Papadopoulos Kyri , Takimoto Chris , Bartels Pamela , Keating Anne , Antonia Scott
Published: September 2008

Purpose

To determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) and assess the safety, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary evidence of antitumor activity of YM155, a small-molecule inhibitor of survivin.

Patients and Methods

Patients with advanced solid malignancies or lymphoma were treated with escalating doses of YM155 administered by 168-hour continuous intravenous infusion (CIVI). Plasma and urine samples were assayed to determine pharmacokinetic parameters and excretion.

Results

Forty-one patients received 127 cycles of YM155 at doses ranging from 1.8 to 6.0 mg/m2/d by 168-hour CIVI every 3 weeks. Overall, the most common grade 1 to 2 toxicities were stomatitis, pyrexia, and nausea, whereas grade 3 and 4 toxicities were rare. Reversible elevation in serum creatinine in two patients, with one developing acute tubular necrosis, was dose-limiting at 6.0 mg/m2. The MTD was 4.8 mg/m2. At the MTD, the mean steady-state concentration, clearance, volume of distribution at steady-state, and terminal elimination half-life were 7.7 ng/mL, 47.7 L/h, 1,763 L, and 26 hours, respectively. One complete and two partial responses lasting 8, 24+ and 48+ months occurred in three patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, two patients with hormone- and docetaxel-refractory prostate cancer had prostate-specific antigen responses, and one patient with non–small-cell lung cancer had a minor response.

Conclusion

YM155 can be administered safely at 4.8 mg/m2/d 168 hours CIVI every 3 weeks. The absence of severe toxicities, attainment of plasma concentrations active in preclinical models, and compelling antitumor activity warrant further disease-directed studies of this agent alone and in combination with chemotherapy in a broad array of tumors.
Clinically Applicable Models to CharacterizeBRCA1andBRCA2Variants of Uncertain Significance
Authors: Spearman Andrew D. , Sweet Kevin , Zhou Xiao-Ping , McLennan Jane , Couch Fergus J. , Toland Amanda Ewart
Published: September 2008

Purpose

Twenty percent of individuals with a strong family and/or personal history of breast and ovarian cancer carry a deleterious mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2. Identification of mutations in these genes is extremely beneficial for patients pursuing risk reduction strategies. Approximately 7% of individuals who have genetic testing of BRCA1 and BRCA2 carry a variant of uncertain significance (VUS), making clinical management less certain. The majority of identified VUS occur only in one to two individuals; these variants are not able to be classified using current classification models with segregation analysis components.

Methods

To develop a clinically applicable method that can predict the pathogenicity of VUS that does not require familial information or segregation analysis, we identified characteristics of breast or ovarian tumors that distinguished sporadic tumors from tumors with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Study participants included individuals with known deleterious mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 and individuals with classified or unclassified BRCA variants.

Results

We applied the models to 57 tumors with 43 different deleterious BRCA mutations and 57 tumors with 54 unique classified and unclassified BRCA variants. Of the 33 previously unclassified VUS studied, we found evidence of neutrality for 21.

Conclusion

Our models showed 98% sensitivity and 76% specificity for predicting classified DNA changes. We classified 64% of unknown variants as neutral. Classification of VUS as neutral will have immediate benefit for those individuals and their family members. These models are adaptable for the clinic and will be useful for individuals with limited available family history.
Metal ion specificities for folding and cleavage activity in the Schistosoma hammerhead ribozyme
Authors: Boots Jennifer L. , Canny Marella D. , Azimi Ehsan , Pardi Arthur
Published: September 2008

The effects of various metal ions on cleavage activity and global folding have been studied in the extended Schistosoma hammerhead ribozyme. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer was used to probe global folding as a function of various monovalent and divalent metal ions in this ribozyme. The divalent metals ions Ca2+, Mg2+, Mn2+, and Sr2+ have a relatively small variation (less than sixfold) in their ability to globally fold the hammerhead ribozyme, which contrasts with the very large difference (>10,000-fold) in apparent rate constants for cleavage for these divalent metal ions in single-turnover kinetic experiments. There is still a very large range (>4600-fold) in the apparent rate constants for cleavage for these divalent metal ions measured in high salt (2 M NaCl) conditions where the ribozyme is globally folded. These results demonstrate that the identity of the divalent metal ion has little effect on global folding of the Schistosoma hammerhead ribozyme, whereas it has a very large effect on the cleavage kinetics. Mechanisms by which the identity of the divalent metal ion can have such a large effect on cleavage activity in the Schistosoma hammerhead ribozyme are discussed.
Polynucleotide phosphorylase hinders mRNA degradation upon ribosomal protein S1 overexpression in Escherichia coli
Authors: Briani Federica , Curti Serena , Rossi Francesca , Carzaniga Thomas , Mauri Pierluigi , Dehò Gianni
Published: September 2008

The exoribonuclease polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase, encoded by pnp) is a major player in bacterial RNA decay. In Escherichia coli, PNPase expression is post-transcriptionally regulated at the level of mRNA stability. The primary transcript is very efficiently processed by the endonuclease RNase III at a specific site and the processed pnp mRNA is rapidly degraded in a PNPase-dependent manner. While investigating the PNPase autoregulation mechanism we found, by UV-cross-linking experiments, that the ribosomal protein S1 in crude extracts binds to the pnp-mRNA leader region. We assayed the potential role of S1 protein in pnp gene regulation by modulating S1 expression from depletion to overexpression. We found that S1 depletion led to a sharp decrease of the amount of pnp and other tested mRNAs, as detected by Northern blotting, whereas S1 overexpression caused a strong stabilization of pnp and the other transcripts. Surprisingly, mRNA stabilization depended on PNPase, as it was not observed in a pnp deletion strain. PNPase-dependent stabilization, however, was not detected by chemical decay assay of bulk mRNA. Overall, our data suggest that PNPase exonucleolytic activity may be modulated by the translation potential of the target mRNAs and that, upon ribosomal protein S1 overexpression, PNPase protects from degradation a set of full-length mRNAs. It thus appears that a single mRNA species may be differentially targeted to either decay or PNPase-dependent stabilization, thus preventing its depletion in conditions of fast turnover.
Pyrrolo-C as a molecular probe for monitoring conformations of the tRNA 3′ end
Authors: Zhang Chun-Mei , Liu Cuiping , Christian Thomas , Gamper Howard , Rozenski Jef , Pan Dongli , Randolph John B. , Wickstrom Eric , Cooperman Barry S. , Hou Ya-Ming
Published: September 2008

All mature tRNA molecules have the conserved CCA sequence at the 3′ end with a range of dynamic conformations that are important for tRNA functions. We present here the details of a general approach to fluorescent labeling of the CCA sequence with the fluorescent base analog pyrrolo-C (PyC) at position 75 as a molecular probe for monitoring the dynamics of the tRNA 3′ end. Using Escherichia coli tRNACys as an example, we achieve such labeling by first synthesizing the tRNA as a transcript up to C74 and then employing the tRNA CCA-adding enzyme to incorporate PyC75 and A76, using pyrrolo-CTP (PyCTP) and ATP as the respective substrates. PyC-labeled full-length tRNACys, separated from the unlabeled precursor tRNA by reverse phase high-pressure liquid chromatography, is an efficient substrate for aminoacylation by E. coli cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase (CysRS). Fluorescence binding measurement of the PyC-labeled tRNACys with E. coli CysRS reveals an equilibrium Kd closely similar to the value determined from the fluorescence of intrinsic enzyme tryptophans. Kinetic measurements of translocation of the PyC-labeled tRNA from the ribosomal A to P sites identify a kinetic intermediate with a rate of formation and decay similar to the values reported for tRNAs labeled with the fluorescent proflavin at the tertiary core. These results highlight the potential of PyC to probe the dynamics of the tRNA CCA end in reactions ranging from aminoacylation to those on the ribosome.
Characterization of the termination–reinitiation strategy employed in the expression of influenza B virus BM2 protein
Authors: Powell Michael L. , Napthine Sawsan , Jackson Richard J. , Brierley Ian , Brown T. David K.
Published: September 2008

Coupled expression of the M1 and BM2 open-reading frames (ORFs) of influenza B from the dicistronic segment 7 mRNA occurs by a process of termination-dependent reinitiation. The AUG start codon of the BM2 ORF overlaps the stop codon of the upstream M1 ORF in the pentanucleotide UAAUG, and BM2 synthesis is dependent upon translation of the M1 ORF and termination at the stop codon. Here, we have investigated the mRNA sequence requirements for BM2 expression. Termination–reinitiation is dependent upon 45 nucleotide (nt) of RNA immediately upstream of the UAAUG pentanucleotide, which includes an essential stretch complementary to 18S rRNA helix 26. Thus, similar to the caliciviruses, base-pairing between mRNA and rRNA is likely to play a role in tethering the 40S subunit to the mRNA following termination at the M1 stop codon. Consistent with this, repositioning of the M1 stop codon more than 24 nt downstream from the BM2 start codon inhibited BM2 expression. RNA structure probing revealed that the RNA upstream of the UAAUG overlap is not highly structured, but upon encountering the M1 stop codon by the ribosome, a stem–loop may form immediately 5′ of the ribosome, with the 18S rRNA complementary region in the apical loop and in close proximity to helix 26. Mutational analysis reveals that the normal requirements for start site selection in BM2 expression are suspended, with little effect of initiation codon context and efficient use of noncanonical initiation codons. This suggests that the full complement of initiation factors is not required for the reinitiation process.
Total knee replacement for patients with ankylosed knees
Authors: Kim Y.-H. , Kim J.-S.
Published: September 2008

The purpose of this study was to determine objectively the outcome of total knee replacement in patients with ankylosed knees.

There were 82 patients (99 knees) with ankylosed knees who underwent total knee replacement with a condylar constrained or a posterior stabilised prosthesis. Their mean age was 41.9 years (23 to 60) and the mean follow-up was for 8.9 years (6.6 to 14). Pre- and post-operative data included the Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS), the Knee Society (KS) and the Western Ontario and McMaster University Osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) scores.

The mean HSS, KS and WOMAC scores improved from 60, 53, and 79 pre-operatively to 81, 85, and 37 at follow-up. These improvements were statistically significant (p = 0.018, 0.001 and 0.014 respectively). The mean physical, social and emotional WOMAC scores also improved significantly (p = 0.032, p = 0.023 and p < 0.001 respectively). The mean satisfaction score was 8.5 (sd 1.5).

Total knee replacement gives good mid-term results in patients with ankylosed knees.
Neurolysis of the ulnar nerve for neuropathy following total elbow replacement
Authors: Rispoli D. M. , Athwal G. S. , Morrey B. F.
Published: September 2008

Ulnar neuropathy presents as a complication in 5% to 10% of total elbow replacements, but subsequent ulnar neurolysis is rarely performed. Little information is available on the surgical management of persistent ulnar neuropathy after elbow replacement. We describe our experience with the surgical management of this problem.

Of 1607 total elbow replacements performed at our institution between January 1969 and December 2004, eight patients (0.5%) had a further operation for persistent or progressive ulnar neuropathy. At a mean follow-up of 9.2 years (3.1 to 21.7) six were clinically improved and satisfied with their outcome, although, only four had complete recovery. When transposition was performed on a previously untransposed nerve the rate of recovery was 75%, but this was reduced to 25% if the nerve had been transposed at the time of the replacement.
A revolution in the management of fractures of the distal radius?
Authors: Downing N. D. , Karantana A.
Published: September 2008

The recent development of locking-plate technology has led to a potential revolution in the management of fractures of the distal radius. This review examines the evidence for pursuing anatomical restoration of the distal radius and the possible advantages and pitfalls of using volar locking plates to achieve this goal. The available evidence for adopting volar locking plates is presented and a number of important and, as yet unanswered, questions are highlighted.
Effect of Distance from Curing Light Tip to Restoration Surface on Depth of Cure of Composite Resin
Authors: Dunne Stephen M , Millar Brian J
Published: September 2008

Aims

While light-activating composite resins, the light tip may not always be close to the surface of the restoration. This may be intentional in an attempt to create a ramp cure. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a range of separation distances between the light tip and the restoration surface on the depth of composite cure for different types of light-curing units with a broad range of outputs.

Methods

Three halogen light units, one plasma arc-curing (PAC) light unit and two light-emitting diode (LED) curing lights in clinical use were tested, and a total of 570 restorations cured in a two-part human tooth model at separations ranging from 0 to 15 mm. The tooth was disassembled and depth of cure determined using the scrape test ISO 4049. Light intensity was also measured at each separation distance for each light.

Results

The depth of cure was generally found to decrease as the separation distance increased for all lights at the various cure times. However, the effect of increasing the separation distance was less than anticipated. The depth of cure was also related to the light output.

Conclusions

Depth of composite cure was directly related to intensity and duration of light exposure and inversely related to distance of the light source from the surface for halogen and plasma lights. However, the effect of increasing the separation distance up to 15 mm was less than expected. Altering the separation distance in order to modify the polymerisation characteristics is unlikely to be effective.
Hormone-sensitive Lipase Expression and IHC Localization in the Rat Ovary, Oviduct, and Uterus
Authors: Lobo María V.T. , Huerta Lydia , Arenas María Isabel , Busto Rebeca , Lasunción Miguel Angel , Martín-Hidalgo Antonia
Published: September 2008

Hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) is a key regulator of cholesterol esters metabolism. The aim of this study was to determine HSL localization in rat female reproductive organs during the ovarian cycle by IHC methods. HSL was located in the ovarian epithelium. The granulosa cells and oocytes of primordial follicles were immunonegative. In mature follicles, HSL was found in oocytes and theca and granulosa cells. However, HSL expression in theca cells and oocytes decreased during follicular atresia. Luteal cells showed HSL staining in cytoplasm during proestrus and estrus, in the nucleus during metestrus, and in cytoplasm and the nucleus during diestrus. In the tubaric ampulla, HSL was located in the epithelial cells nuclei and in the cilia during proestrus and estrus but mainly in the nucleus during metestrus and diestrus. In the isthmus, cells showed HSL immunolabeling in the nucleus and cilia during proestrus, but only in the cilia during estrus, metestrus, and diestrus. In the uterus, HSL was found in the epithelial cells nuclei. HSL-immunoreactive bands at 84, 67, 54, and 43 kDa were found in rat female reproductive organs. HSL labeling in the nucleus of epithelial and germ cells suggests an as yet unknown function for this protein, probably related to oogenesis and cell proliferation.
Immunolocalization of Aquaporin 1, 5, and 9 in the Female Pig Reproductive System
Authors: Skowronski Mariusz T. , Kwon Tae-Hwan , Nielsen Søren
Published: September 2008

Thirteen mammalian aquaporin (AQP) isoforms have been identified, and they have a unique tissue-specific pattern of expression. AQPs have been documented in the reproductive system of both male and female humans, rats, and mice. However, tissue expression and cellular and subcellular localization of AQPs are unknown in the female reproductive system of pigs. In this study, AQP1 immunoreactivity was detected in the capillary endothelium of the ovary. Distinct immunolabeling of capillary endothelium was also observed in the oviduct and uterus. AQP5 was expressed in flattened follicle cells of primordial follicles, granulosa cells of developing ovarian follicles, and muscle cells of the oviduct and uterus. Staining of AQP5 was also observed in the epithelial cells of the oviduct and uterine epithelium. AQP9 immunoreactivity was observed in granulosa cells of developing follicles. AQP9 was also localized in the luminal epithelial cells of the oviduct and uterine epithelia cells. This is, to our knowledge, the first study that shows tissue expression and cellular and subcellular localization of AQPs in the reproductive system of the female pig. Moreover, these results suggest that several subtypes of the AQPs (AQP1, 5, and 9) are involved in regulation of water homeostasis in the reproductive system of gilts.
Solvation Behaviour of some Copper (I), Silver (I) and Tetraalkylammonium Salts in Actonitrile + Adiponitrile Mixtures
Authors: Gill Dip Singh , Rana Dilbag , Gupta Rahul
Published: September 2008

Solvation behaviour of some copper (I), silver (I) and tetrabutylammonium salts has been investigated in binary mixtures of acetonitrile and adiponitrile containing 100, 90, 80, 70, 60 and 50 mol % AN at 298 K using molar conductance and viscosity measurements. The conductance data have been analyzed by using the Shedlovsky method to calculate limiting molar conductance (Λo) of the electrolytes. The solvated radii for various ions indicate that tetrabutylammonium (Bu4N+) and tetraphenylborate (BPh4
–) are not solvated in all AN+ADN mixtures. The anions are poorly solvated but Cu+ and Ag+ are highly solvated in AN+ADN mixtures. The extent of solvation of Cu+ is greater then that of Ag+. The solvation of these both ions increases in ADN rich region of the mixtures. The viscosity data have been analyzed by using the Jones-Dole equation to calculate viscosity B-coefficients of electrolytes. The ionic B± coefficients for individual ions have been evaluated. The results show that anions are weakly solvated in whole composition range of AN + ADN mixtures. The B+ coefficients for Cu+ and Ag+ increase with increase in ADN composition i.e. these are better solvated in ADN rich region of binary mixtures. The viscosity results are in good agreement with the results obtained from the conductance studies.
Soil and plant nutritional status in fruit orchards in Syria
Authors: El-Fouly M. , Shaaban M. , El-Khadraa T.
Published: September 2008

A study was conducted over 15 years in apple, peach, pear, citrus, grapevine and olive orchards in different locations in Syria. The study aimed at monitoring and evaluating the long-term nutrient behaviour in plants and soil in order to suggest measures for nutrient management improvement. Leaf and soil samples were collected in the years 1982, 1987, 1990 and 1997. The soils were characterized by high pH values, high CaCO
3
and low to medium organic matter contents. Due to the unfavourable soil conditions and ill-chosen fertilizer use, the nutrient balance in the plant tissues was disturbed. To correct the situation, the application of improved nutrient management practices was suggested.
High forage yield and quality of sudan grass ( Sorghum bicolor L.) and pearl millet ( Pennisetum glaucum L.) cultivated in calcareous soils
Authors: Selim M.
Published: September 2008

Sudan grass and pearl millet are major warm season dryland crops, primarily grown for grain production and used as a major source of dietary energy. Both crops are highly water use efficient and belong to the C
4
group of species with high photosynthetic efficiency and dry matter accumulation rates. Both sudan grass and pearl millet have good forage quality, with an adequate crude protein content; that of pearl millet (8.7%) is higher than that of sorghum (6.0%). Therefore, the present investigation was conducted in the Western Delta Region at El-Naubaria, 40 km south of Alexandria, over two successive seasons to evaluate the forage yield and quality of sudan grass and pearl millet. Field experiments were established on calcareous soils, with five fertilization treatments. The results indicate that pearl millet surpassed sudan grass in fresh (6.56 t/ha) and dry yield (2.91 t/ha), which was 8.89% and 5.26% more, respectively, than for sudan grass. As regards the forage quality, pearl millet had good digestibility and was lower in fibre than sudan grass.
Temperature dependence of wheat development
Authors: Balla K. , Veisz O.
Published: September 2008

Among the abiotic stress factors influencing the growth and productivity of wheat varieties, extremely high temperatures have the most limiting effect. In an experiment set up in the gradient chamber of the Martonvásár phytotron to test the effect of various temperatures on four winter wheat varieties and one variety of spelt, substantial differences were observed in the heat stress tolerance of the varieties. There was a considerable reduction in the number of shoots and spikes as the result of heat stress, leading to a drastic loss of grain yield. It was clear from changes in the biomass and in the grain:straw ratio that extremely high temperatures led to a substantial reduction in the ratio of grain to straw in the varieties tested. In response to high temperature the wheat plants turned yellow earlier due to the rapid decomposition of the chlorophyll content. This resulted in a considerable shortening of the vegetation period and early ripening. Reductions in the parameters tested were observed at different temperature levels for each variety, indicating considerable differences in the ability of the varieties to adapt to abiotic stress factors.
On relations among Fourier coefficients and sum-functions
Authors: Yu Dansheng , Zhou Songping
Published: September 2008

We generalize five theorems of Leindler on the relations among Fourier coefficients and sum-functions under the more general
N BV
condition
Spaces with uniform weak-bases
Authors: Li Zhaowen , Li Qingguo , Zhou Xiangnan
Published: September 2008

In this paper we give some characterizations of spaces with uniform weak-bases and discuss some related matters.
Ideal extensions of locally inverse semigroups
Authors: Pastijn Francis , Oliveira Luís
Published: September 2008

The translational hull of a locally inverse semigroup has a largest locally inverse subsemigroup containing the inner part. A construction is given for ideal extensions within the class of all locally inverse semigroups.
Electrochemical behavior of metal interconnects in electronic assemblies
Authors: Zou Ling Chunxian , Hunt Christopher
Published: September 2008

The electrochemical and corrosion behaviors of solder alloys—SnAgCu (SAC), SnZnBi, SnPb, and Sn—and printed circuit board finish materials Cu and AuNi were investigated in carboxylic acids (flux) and NaCl solutions using the potentiodynamic scanning technique. The results show that SAC and Sn are passivated in the diluted flux solution, but SnPb, SnZnBi, Cu, and AuNi are under active dissolution when anodically polarized. However, passivation of SAC alloy is not observed in concentrated flux solution. Although a passive film forms on SAC in a 2% NaCl solution, the film is less stable than in the flux solution. In addition, oxidation of the most commonly used lead-free and lead solders, SAC and SnPb, at high temperature was evaluated via sequential electrochemical reduction analysis (SERA). The SERA results revealed that the SAC alloy oxidized more significantly than SnPb under hot, dry conditions.
Phase equilibria and phase transformation of the body-centered cubic phase in the Cu-rich portion of the Cu–Ti–Al system
Authors: Liu X.J. , Wang C.P. , Ohnuma I. , Kainuma R. , Ishida K.
Published: September 2008

The phase equilibria and phase transformation of the body-centered cubic (bcc) phase in the Cu–Ti–Al system were investigated by the diffusion couple method, metallographic examination, differential scanning calorimetry, and x-ray diffraction. The isothermal sections at 700 and 900 °C and vertical sections at 18 at.% Al, 22 at.% Al, and 25 at.% Al in the Cu-rich portion were determined. These results indicate that (i) the Cu2TiAl compound with the L21 Heusler structure has a larger solubility range; (ii) the stable B2 + L21 miscibility gap of the ordered bcc phase exists until the liquid phase, and the tie lines of this miscibility gap are almost parallel with the Cu–Ti side; (iii) the composition and temperature for the eutectic reaction (L ↔ B2 + L21) are about 7 at.% Ti and about 970 °C, respectively, and (iv) the velocity of the eutectoid decomposition [bcc ↔ face-centered cubic (fcc) + D83] of the bcc phase with martensitic morphology in the Cu–Ti–Al alloys is slower than that of the Cu–Al alloys.
Thermodynamic and kinetic fragilities of Mg-based bulk metallic glass-forming liquids
Authors: Ma H. , Fecht H-J.
Published: September 2008

The thermodynamic and kinetic fragilities of two near-eutectic Mg-based bulk metallic glass (BMG)-forming liquids, Mg61Cu28Gd11 and Mg59.5Cu22.9Ag6.6Gd11, were investigated using high-precision differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The thermodynamic fragility denoted as F3/4 was determined by evaluating the temperature dependence of the excess entropy Sex. The heating rate dependence of the relaxation time at the glass transition temperature was investigated to measure the kinetic fragility. A positive correlation between the thermodynamic and kinetic fragilities could be established in Mg-based BMG-forming liquids on the basis of Adam-Gibbs equation in contrast to a number of other BMGs.
Energy-loss magnetic chiral dichroism (EMCD): Magnetic chiral dichroism in the electron microscope
Authors: Rubino S. , Schattschneider P. , Stöger-Pollach M. , Hébert C. , Rusz J. , Calmels L. , Warot-Fonrose B. , Houdellier F. , Serin V. , Novak P.
Published: September 2008

A new technique called energy-loss magnetic chiral dichroism (EMCD) has recently been developed [P. Schattschneider, et al.Nature441,486 (2006)] to measure magnetic circular dichroism in the transmission electron microscope (TEM) with a spatial resolution of 10 nm. This novel technique is the TEM counterpart of x-ray magnetic circular dichroism, which is widely used for the characterization of magnetic materials with synchrotron radiation. In this paper we describe several experimental methods that can be used to measure the EMCD signal [P. Schattschneider, et al.Nature441,486 (2006); C. Hébert, et al.Ultramicroscopy108(3), 277 (2008); B. Warot-Fonrose, et al.Ultramicroscopy108(5), 393 (2008); L. Calmels, et al.Phys. Rev. B76,060409 (2007); P. van Aken, et al.Microsc. Microanal.13(3), 426 (2007)] and give a review of the recent improvements of this new investigation tool. The dependence of the EMCD on several experimental conditions (such as thickness, relative orientation of beam and sample, collection and convergence angle) is investigated in the transition metals iron, cobalt, and nickel. Different scattering geometries are illustrated; their advantages and disadvantages are detailed, together with current limitations. The next realistic perspectives of this technique consist of measuring atomic specific magnetic moments, using suitable spin and orbital sum rules, [L. Calmels, et al.Phys. Rev. B76,060409 (2007); J. Rusz, et al.Phys. Rev. B76,060408 (2007)] with a resolution down to 2 to 3 nm.
Resource notes
Authors: Linehan Andy
Published: September 2008

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Violência de gênero contra trabalhadoras de enfermagem em hospital geral de São Paulo (SP)
Authors: Oliveira Ane R , D'Oliveira Ana Flávia P L
Published: September 2008

OBJETIVO: Estimar a ocorrência de violência psicológica, física e sexual em profissionais de enfermagem. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com amostra de 179 profissionais (50 enfermeiras e 129 auxiliares/técnicas de enfermagem) de um hospital geral do município de São Paulo, SP, entre 2005 e 2006. Utilizou-se questionário aplicado face a face por entrevistadoras treinadas. A violência foi abordada em suas formas psicológica, física e sexual para agressores homens e mulheres, agrupados em: parceiros íntimos, familiares e outros agressores como conhecidos e estranhos. Procedeu-se a uma análise descritiva, calculando-se as freqüências dos tipos de violência com intervalo de confiança de 95%. RESULTADOS: A violência por parceiro íntimo foi a mais freqüente (63,7%; IC 95%:55,7;70,4) seguida pela violência perpetrada por outros (pacientes/acompanhantes, colegas de trabalho da área da saúde, estranhos, chefia de enfermagem e conhecidos; 45,8%; IC 95%: 38,3;53,4). A violência por familiares ocupou o terceiro lugar (41,3%; IC 95%: 34,0;48,9) e foi cometida, principalmente, por pai, irmãos (homens), tios e primos. Em geral, poucas profissionais de enfermagem que sofreram violência buscaram ajuda: 29,7% para a violência por parceiro íntimo; 20,3% para a violência por outros e 29,3% para a violência por familiares. Não perceberam o vivido como violento, 31,9% das entrevistadas. CONCLUSÕES: As taxas de violência de gênero entre mulheres profissionais de saúde foram significativas, principalmente para a violência cometida por parceiros íntimos e familiares. Entretanto, a busca de ajuda frente aos agravos sofridos foi baixa, considerando ser um grupo de escolaridade significativa.
Fatores associados ao acesso anterior à gestação a serviços de saúde por adolescentes gestantes
Authors: Carvacho Ingrid Espejo , Mello Maeve Brito de , Morais Sirlei Siani , Silva João Luiz Pinto e
Published: September 2008

OBJETIVO: Analisar os fatores determinantes do acesso de adolescentes gestantes a serviços de atenção primária à saúde, anterior à ocorrência da gestação. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal baseado em referencial teórico. O acesso a serviços foi analisado em cinco dimensões: geográfico, econômico, administrativo, psicossocial e de informação. Participaram 200 adolescentes primigestas (10 a 19 anos) atendidas em uma unidade básica de saúde do município de Indaiatuba (SP), em 2003. Um questionário com perguntas abertas e fechadas referentes ao acesso ao último serviço de saúde utilizado, anterior à gestação, foi aplicado às participantes no momento de sua primeira consulta de pré-natal. Os dados foram analisados por meio do teste de qui-quadrado de Pearson ou exato de Fisher e por regressão logística múltipla, considerando as cinco dimensões de acesso. RESULTADOS: Mais da metade (63,7%) das adolescentes utilizou algum serviço de saúde para consulta ginecológica. Entre as que nunca consultaram um ginecologista, as justificativas dadas foram falta de informação (43,8%) ou sentimento de medo ou vergonha (37,0%). A principal dificuldade de acesso ao serviço esteve relacionada a barreiras psicossociais, identificadas por 77,0% das adolescentes. CONCLUSÕES: Entre as barreiras de acesso ao serviço de saúde, foram significativas apenas as psicossociais. São necessárias novas estratégias para facilitar o acesso ao serviço de saúde às adolescentes, incluindo ações que diminuam as barreiras de gênero e que se considerem suas características sociodemográficas e o vínculo com seus parceiros.
Saúde urbana: "a cidade é uma estranha senhora, que hoje sorri e amanhã te devora"
Authors: Caiaffa Waleska Teixeira , Ferreira Fabiane Ribeiro , Ferreira Aline Dayrell , Oliveira Claúdia Di Lorenzo , Camargos Vitor Passos , Proietti Fernando Augusto
Published: September 2008

Mais da metade dos habitantes da terra está vivendo nas cidades, e o mundo está se tornando mais e mais urbano. Este artigo considera, a partir de revisão bibliográfica, que o ambiente urbano influencia a saúde e os comportamentos humanos, apontando para a necessidade do melhor entendimento dos determinantes da saúde das populações vivendo nas cidades. Explora as transformações urbanas oferecendo uma visão sobre a conformação das cidades contemporâneas e os impactos sobre a saúde humana. Sugere que, enquanto as cidades podem representar oportunidades positivas, impactos desiguais negativos relacionados à falta de organização social, precárias condições urbanas e de trabalho, falta de governança, de oportunidades, e de capacidade de desenvolver políticas para ações tendem a ampliar os efeitos adversos sobre a saúde das pessoas. Discute a saúde urbana como um ramo de conhecimento aninhado na saúde pública, possibilitando re-pensar avaliações de impacto à saúde a partir de intervenções não necessariamente originadas da saúde. Propõe arcabouço de um modelo conceitual, além de uma taxonomia comum para a saúde urbana. Apresenta direções futuras de investigação e prática, contemplando especificidades analíticas, sob a luz de alguns exemplos da literatura científica brasileira.
O conhecimento de HIV/aids na terceira idade: estudo epidemiológico no Vale do Sinos, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil
Authors: Lazzarotto Alexandre Ramos , Kramer Andréa Sebben , Hädrich Martha , Tonin Marina , Caputo Paula , Sprinz Eduardo
Published: September 2008

O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar o conhecimento sobre HIV/aids dos participantes de grupos de convivência do Vale do Sinos, Rio Grande do Sul. O estudo caracterizou-se como transversal, obtendo-se uma amostra de 510 pessoas, sendo 17,5% homens e 82,5% mulheres, na faixa etária entre 60-90 anos. Utilizou-se o questionário sobre HIV para terceira idade, que abrange características gerais dos participantes e questões relativas à aids, organizadas nos domínios "conceito", "transmissão", "prevenção", "vulnerabilidade" e "tratamento". Quase metade (48,4%) dos participantes relatou ter cursado de quatro a sete anos de estudo e a renda mensal de 52,2% foi de um a três salários mínimos. Nos domínios "conceito" e "transmissão", 49,4% desconheciam a fase assintomática da infecção pelo HIV e 41,4% acreditavam que a aids poderia ser transmitida pelo mosquito. No âmbito dos domínios "prevenção" e "vulnerabilidade", 25,5% não sabiam da existência da camisinha feminina e 36,9% consideravam a aids uma síndrome somente de homens que fazem sexo com homens, profissionais do sexo e usuários de drogas. Quanto ao "tratamento", 12,2% ignoravam a sua existência. Constataram-se lacunas no conhecimento sobre HIV/aids na amostra avaliada, demonstrando a necessidade de programas de saúde pública que visem à elucidação das principais dúvidas.
Modelo para avaliação de planos de gerenciamento de resíduos de serviços de saúde (PGRSS) para Secretarias Municipais da Saúde e/ou do Meio Ambiente
Authors: Zamoner Maristela
Published: September 2008

O gerenciamento inadequado de resíduos de serviços de saúde produzidos diariamente, aliado ao aumento significativo de sua produção, vem agravando os riscos à saúde e à população. Cada responsável por estabelecimento gerador destes resíduos deve implementar o Plano de Gerenciamento de Resíduos de Serviços de Saúde - PGRSS. Cabe às Secretarias da Saúde e do Meio Ambiente municipais a principal responsabilidade por orientar e monitorar a construção e a sustentação dos PGRSS. A proposta deste trabalho é a apresentação de um modelo que pode ser utilizado por Secretarias da Saúde e/ou do Meio Ambiente municipais para análise de PGRSS dos estabelecimentos de saúde dos municípios. A análise (incluindo gráficos com os percentuais de questões enquadradas em cada critério pré-estabelecido) é devolvida para que cada estabelecimento de saúde municipal possa proceder a ajustes. Esta análise favorece um retorno para os estabelecimentos de saúde municipais com orientações precisas para melhora da qualidade do plano. Permite ainda que a Secretaria da Saúde ou do Meio Ambiente obtenha parâmetros para o direcionamento das ações de capacitação para a elaboração do plano. O modelo permite um retorno rápido, facilita a avaliação dos PGRSS, é de fácil aplicação e auxilia seu constante aprimoramento.