bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between past airway pathology and current lung function in preschool wheezers
Authors: Sonnappa S. , Bastardo C.M. , Saglani S. , Bush A. , Aurora P.
Published: July 2011

The functional outcome in preschool severe wheezers with eosinophilic airway inflammation and increased reticular basement membrane (RBM) thickness is unknown. We investigated the relationship between airway pathology at age 2 yrs and lung function at age 4–6 yrs in previous severe wheezers.

Severe wheezers previously investigated by endobronchial biopsy and healthy children aged 4–6 yrs were recruited. Lung clearance index (LCI), conducting zone ventilation inhomogeneity (Scond), acinar ventilation inhomogeneity by multiple-breath washout, plethysmographic-specific airway resistance and exhaled nitric oxide fraction (FeNO) were measured. Lung function was compared between wheezers and healthy controls, and in wheezers correlated with past RBM thickness and mucosal eosinophilia (EG2+ cells).

72 healthy controls and 28 previous severe wheezers were tested. Wheezers had significantly higher median LCI (6.8versus6.6; p=0.001) andScond(0.046versus0.016; p<0.0005) than healthy controls. Past RBM thickness (r=0.474, p=0.047) and EG2+ cells (r=0.552, p=0.041) showed significant correlations with currentFeNO, but no correlations were seen between past RBM thickness and current lung function.

RBM thickness and EG2+ cells at age 2 yrs show a significant positive association withFeNOat age 5 yrs. Although lung function was abnormal at age 5 yrs in severe wheezers, this did not correlate with past RBM thickness.
Duration and exclusiveness of breastfeeding and childhood asthma-related symptoms
Authors: Sonnenschein-van der Voort A.M.M. , Jaddoe V.W.V. , van der Valk R.J.P. , Willemsen S.P. , Hofman A. , Moll H.A. , de Jongste J.C. , Duijts L.
Published: July 2011

The aim of our study was to examine the associations of breastfeeding duration and exclusiveness with the risks of asthma-related symptoms in preschool children, and to explore whether these associations are explained by atopic or infectious mechanisms.

This study was embedded in a population-based prospective cohort study of 5,368 children. Information on breastfeeding duration, exclusiveness and asthma-related symptoms, including wheezing, shortness of breath, dry cough and persistent phlegm, was obtained by questionnaires.

Compared with children who were breastfed for 6 months, those who were never breastfed had overall increased risks of wheezing, shortness of breath, dry cough and persistent phlegm during the first 4 yrs (OR 1.44 (95% CI 1.24–1.66), 1.26 (1.07–1.48), 1.25 (1.08–1.44) and 1.57 (1.29–1.91), respectively). Similar associations were observed for exclusive breastfeeding. The strongest associations per symptom per year were observed for wheezing at 1 and 2 yrs. Additionally adjusted analyses showed that the associations of breastfeeding with asthma-related symptoms were not explained by eczema but partly by lower respiratory tract infections.

Shorter duration and nonexclusivity of breastfeeding were associated with increased risks of asthma-related symptoms in preschool children. These associations seemed, at least partly, to be explained by infectious, but not by atopic, mechanisms.
Cigarette smoke impairs airway epithelial barrier function and cell–cell contact recovery
Authors: Heijink I.H. , Brandenburg S.M. , Postma D.S. , van Oosterhout A.J.M.
Published: July 2011

Cigarette smoking, the major cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), induces aberrant airway epithelial structure and function. The underlying mechanisms are unresolved so far.

We studied effects of cigarette smoke extract (CSE) on epithelial barrier function and wound regeneration in human bronchial epithelial 16HBE cells and primary bronchial epithelial cells (PBECs) from COPD patients, nonsmokers and healthy smokers.

We demonstrate that CSE rapidly and transiently impairs 16HBE barrier function, largely due to disruption of cell–cell contacts. CSE induced a similar, but stronger and more sustained, defect in PBECs. Application of the specific epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor AG1478 showed that EGFR activation contributes to the CSE-induced defects in both 16HBE cells and PBECs. Furthermore, our data indicate that the endogenous protease calpain mediates these defects through tight junction protein degradation. CSE also delayed the reconstitution of 16HBE intercellular contacts during wound healing and attenuated PBEC barrier function upon wound regeneration. These findings were comparable between PBECs from smokers, healthy smokers and COPD patients.

In conclusion, we demonstrate for the first time that CSE reduces epithelial integrity, probably by EGFR and calpain-dependent disruption of intercellular contacts. This may increase susceptibility to environmental insults,e.g.inhaled pathogens. Thus, EGFR may be a promising target for therapeutic strategies to improve mucosal barrier function in cigarette smoking-related disease.
The generation and evaluation of recombinant human IgA specific for Plasmodium falciparum merozoite surface protein 1-19 (PfMSP119)
Authors: Shi Jianguo , McIntosh Richard S , Adame-Gallegos Jaime , Dehal Prabhjyot K , van Egmond Marjolein , van de Winkel Jan , Draper Simon J , Forbes Emily K , Corran Patrick H , Holder Anthony A , Woof Jenny M , Pleass Richard J
Published: July 2011

Background

Human immunoglobulin G (IgG) plays an important role in mediating protective immune responses to malaria. Although human serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) is the second most abundant class of antibody in the circulation, its contribution, if any, to protective responses against malaria is not clear.

Results

To explore the mechanism(s) by which IgA may mediate a protective effect, we generated fully human IgA specific for the C-terminal 19-kDa region ofPlasmodium falciparummerozoite surface protein 1 (PfMSP119), a major target of protective immune responses. This novel human IgA bound antigen with an affinity comparable to that seen for an epitope-matched protective human IgG1. Furthermore, the human IgA induced significantly higher NADPH-mediated oxidative bursts and degranulation from human neutrophils than the epitope-matched human IgG1 from which it was derived. Despite showing efficacy inin vitrofunctional assays, the human IgA failed to protect against parasite challengein vivoin mice transgenic for the human Fcα receptor (FcαRI/CD89). A minority of the animals treated with IgA, irrespective of FcαRI expression, showed elevated serum TNF-α levels and concomitant mouse anti-human antibody (MAHA) responses.

Conclusions

The lack of protection afforded by MSP119-specific IgA against parasite challenge in mice transgenic for human FcαRI suggests that this antibody class does not play a major role in control of infection. However, we cannot exclude the possibility that protective capacity may have been compromised in this model due to rapid clearance and inappropriate bio-distribution of IgA, and differences in FcαRI expression profile between humans and transgenic mice.
Comparative in vitro study of the antimicrobial activities of different commercial antibiotic products of vancomycin
Authors: Diaz Jorge A , Silva Edelberto , Arias Maria J , Garzón María
Published: July 2011

Background

One of the most critical problems about antimicrobial therapy is the increasing resistance to antibiotics. Previous studies have shown that there is a direct relation between erroneous prescription, dosage, route, duration of the therapy and the antibiotics resistance. Other important point is the uncertainty about the quality of the prescribed medicines. Some physicians believe that generic drugs are not as effective as innovator ones, so it is very important to have evidence that shows that all commercialized drugs are suitable for therapeutic use.

Methods

Microbial assays were used to establish the potency, the Minimal Inhibitory Concentrations (MICs), the Minimal Bactericidal Concentration (MBCs), the critical concentrations, and the production of spontaneous mutants that are resistant to vancomycin.

Results

The microbial assay was validated in order to determine the Vancomycin potency of the tasted samples. All the products showed that have potency values between 90 - 115% (USP requirement). The products behave similarly because the MICs, The MBCs, the critical concentrations, the critical concentrations ratios between standard and samples, and the production of spontaneous mutants don't have significant differences.

Conclusions

All products analyzed by microbiological tests, show that both trademarks and generics do not have statistical variability and the answer of antimicrobial activity Show also that they are pharmaceutical equivalents.
A new chymotrypsin-like serine protease involved in dietary protein digestion in a primitive animal, Scorpio maurus: purification and biochemical characterization
Authors: Louati Hanen , Zouari Nacim , Miled Nabil , Gargouri Youssef
Published: July 2011

Background

Most recent works on chymotrypsins have been focused on marine animals and insects. However, no study was reported in chelicerate.

Results

Scorpion chymotrypsin-like protease (SCP) was purified to homogeneity from delipidated hepatopancreases. The protease NH2-terminal sequence exhibited more than 60% monoacids identity with those of insect putative peptidases. The protease displayed no sequence homology with classical proteases. From this point of view, the protease recalls the case of the scorpion lipase which displayed no sequence homology with known lipases. The scorpion amylase purified and characterized by our time, has an amino-acids sequence similar to those of mammalian amylases. The enzyme was characterized with respect its biochemical properties: it was active on a chymotrypsin substrate and had an apparent molecular mass of 25 kDa, like the classically known chymotrypsins. The dependence of the SCP activity and stability on pH and temperature was similar to that of mammalian chymotrypsin proteases. However, the SCP displayed a lower specific activity and a boarder pH activity range (from 6 to 9).

Conclusion

lower animal have a less evaluated digestive organ: a hepatopancreas, whereas, higher ones possess individualized pancreas and liver. A new chymotrypsin-like protease was purified for the first time from the scorpion hepatopancreas. Its biochemical characterization showed new features as compared to classical chymotrypsin-higher-animals proteases.
Effect of amorphous silica nanoparticles on in vitro RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation in murine macrophages
Authors: Nabeshi Hiromi , Yoshikawa Tomoaki , Akase Takanori , Yoshida Tokuyuki , Tochigi Saeko , Hirai Toshiro , Uji Miyuki , Ichihashi Ko-ichi , Yamashita Takuya , Higashisaka Kazuma , Morishita Yuki , Nagano Kazuya , Abe Yasuhiro , Kamada Haruhiko , Tsunoda Shin-ichi , Itoh Norio , Yoshioka Yasuo , Tsutsumi Yasuo
Published: July 2011

Amorphous silica nanoparticles (nSP) have been used as a polishing agent and/or as a remineralization promoter for teeth in the oral care field. The present study investigates the effects of nSP on osteoclast differentiation and the relationship between particle size and these effects. Our results revealed that nSP exerted higher cytotoxicity in macrophage cells compared with submicron-sized silica particles. However, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) activity and the number of osteoclast cells (TRAP-positive multinucleated cells) were not changed by nSP treatment in the presence of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) at doses that did not induce cytotoxicity by silica particles. These results indicated that nSP did not cause differentiation of osteoclasts. Collectively, the results suggested that nanosilica exerts no effect on RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation of RAW264.7 cells, although a detailed mechanistic examination of the nSP70-mediated cytotoxic effect is needed.
Transcriptional analysis of rat piriform cortex following exposure to the organophosphonate anticholinesterase sarin and induction of seizures
Authors: Spradling Kimberly D , Lumley Lucille A , Robison Christopher L , Meyerhoff James L , Dillman James F
Published: July 2011

Background

Organophosphorus nerve agents irreversibly inhibit acetylcholinesterase, causing a toxic buildup of acetylcholine at muscarinic and nicotinic receptors. Current medical countermeasures to nerve agent intoxication increase survival if administered within a short period of time following exposure but may not fully prevent neurological damage. Therefore, there is a need to discover drug treatments that are effective when administered after the onset of seizures and secondary responses that lead to brain injury.

Methods

To determine potential therapeutic targets for such treatments, we analyzed gene expression changes in the rat piriform cortex following sarin (O-isopropyl methylphosphonofluoridate)-induced seizure. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were challenged with 1 × LD50 sarin and subsequently treated with atropine sulfate, 2-pyridine aldoxime methylchloride (2-PAM), and the anticonvulsant diazepam. Control animals received an equivalent volume of vehicle and drug treatments. The piriform cortex, a brain region particularly sensitive to neural damage from sarin-induced seizures, was extracted at 0.25, 1, 3, 6, and 24 h after seizure onset, and total RNA was processed for microarray analysis. Principal component analysis identified sarin-induced seizure occurrence and time point following seizure onset as major sources of variability within the dataset. Based on these variables, the dataset was filtered and analysis of variance was used to determine genes significantly changed in seizing animals at each time point. The calculated p-value and geometric fold change for each probeset identifier were subsequently used for gene ontology analysis to identify canonical pathways, biological functions, and networks of genes significantly affected by sarin-induced seizure over the 24-h time course.

Results

A multitude of biological functions and pathways were identified as being significantly altered following sarin-induced seizure. Inflammatory response and signaling pathways associated with inflammation were among the most significantly altered across the five time points examined.

Conclusions

This analysis of gene expression changes in the rat brain following sarin-induced seizure and the molecular pathways involved in sarin-induced neurodegeneration will facilitate the identification of potential therapeutic targets for the development of effective neuroprotectants to treat nerve agent exposure.
Detection of HBV Genotypes of Tumor Tissues and Serum by A Fluorescence Polarization Assay in North-Western China's Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Lu Jianguo , Gong Weidong , Cheng Hong , Wu Zhiqun , Li Ding , Wang Xiangling , Liang Ping , Zhang Ju
Published: July 2011

Background

The understanding of the distribution of hepatitis B virus genotypes and the occult hepatitis B virus infection in hepatocellular carcinoma may shed light into the prevention and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma. The purpose of the study is to investigate hepatitis B virus genotypes distribution, the high-risk genotypes and the occult infection in north-western China's hepatocellular carcinoma patients.

Methods

Hepatitis B virus genotypes A-D of hepatocellular carcinoma tumor tissues and serum samples in 268 north-western China hepatocellular carcinoma patients were detected by fluorescence polarization assay. The hepatitis B virus genotypes in serum and matched primary tumor tissue samples were compared. Hepatitis B surface antigen and α-fetoprotein in serum were detected. Occult hepatitis B virus infections were analyzed. The relationship between hepatitis B virus genotypes and clinicopathologic characteristics were analyzed statistically using SPSS v.10.0.

Results

Intrahepatic hepatitis B virus DNA was detected in 83.6% of 268 patients, whereas serum hepatitis B virus DNA was detected in 78.7%. The hepatitis B virus genotypes in serum were consistent with the results in matched tumor tissue. Intrahepatic hepatitis B virus genotype B and C were detected respectively in 11.6% and 54.5% of the patients. Mixed intrahepatic hepatitis B virus genotypes were detected in 13.4% of 268 patients. There was not mixed hepatitis B virus infection in Edmondonson grade I. The patients with mixed HBV genotypes exhibited statistically significant different Edmondson grade than the patients with single type HBV infection (p < 0.05). Hepatitis B surface antigens were positive in 77.2% of 268 patients. Hepatitis B virus genotype C was detected in 64.7% of occult infected patients. There was no significant differences of patients' ages and α-fetoprotein level in different groups of intrahepatic hepatitis B virus genotypes (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Hepatitis B virus genotype C was associated closely with the development of hepatocellular carcinoma and the occult hepatitis B virus infection in patients in north-western China. There was a relatively high prevalence of mixed hepatitis B virus infection in Edmondonson grade III-IV.
Erythropoietin Reduces Neuronal Cell Death and Hyperalgesia Induced by Peripheral Inflammatory Pain in Neonatal Rats
Authors: Mohamad Osama , Chen Dongdong , Zhang Lingling , Hofmann Cane , Wei Ling , Yu Shan Ping
Published: July 2011

Painful stimuli during neonatal stage may affect brain development and contribute to abnormal behaviors in adulthood. Very few specific therapies are available for this developmental disorder. A better understanding of the mechanisms and consequences of painful stimuli during the neonatal period is essential for the development of effective therapies. In this study, we examined brain reactions in a neonatal rat model of peripheral inflammatory pain. We focused on the inflammatory insult-induced brain responses and delayed changes in behavior and pain sensation. Postnatal day 3 pups received formalin injections into the paws once a day for 3 days. The insult induced dysregulation of several inflammatory factors in the brain and caused selective neuronal cell death in the cortex, hippocampus and hypothalamus. On postnatal day 21, rats that received the inflammatory nociceptive insult exhibited increased local cerebral blood flow in the somatosensory cortex, hyperalgesia, and decreased exploratory behaviors. Based on these observations, we tested recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) as a potential treatment to prevent the inflammatory pain-induced changes. rhEPO treatment (5,000 U/kg/day, i.p.), coupled to formalin injections, ameliorated neuronal cell death and normalized the inflammatory response. Rats that received formalin plus rhEPO exhibited normal levels of cerebral blood flow, pain sensitivity and exploratory behavior. Treatment with rhEPO also restored normal brain and body weights that were reduced in the formalin group. These data suggest that severe inflammatory pain has adverse effects on brain development and rhEPO may be a possible therapy for the prevention and treatment of this developmental disorder.
iRsp1095: A genome-scale reconstruction of the Rhodobacter sphaeroides metabolic network
Authors: Imam Saheed , Yilmaz Safak , Sohmen Ugur , Gorzalski Alexander S , Reed Jennifer L , Noguera Daniel R , Donohue Timothy J
Published: July 2011

Background

Rhodobacter sphaeroides is one of the best studied purple non-sulfur photosynthetic bacteria and serves as an excellent model for the study of photosynthesis and the metabolic capabilities of this and related facultative organisms. The ability of R. sphaeroides to produce hydrogen (H2), polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) or other hydrocarbons, as well as its ability to utilize atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) as a carbon source under defined conditions, make it an excellent candidate for use in a wide variety of biotechnological applications. A genome-level understanding of its metabolic capabilities should help realize this biotechnological potential.

Results

Here we present a genome-scale metabolic network model for R. sphaeroides strain 2.4.1, designated iRsp1095, consisting of 1,095 genes, 796 metabolites and 1158 reactions, including R. sphaeroides-specific biomass reactions developed in this study. Constraint-based analysis showed that iRsp1095 agreed well with experimental observations when modeling growth under respiratory and phototrophic conditions. Genes essential for phototrophic growth were predicted by single gene deletion analysis. During pathway-level analyses of R. sphaeroides metabolism, an alternative route for CO2 assimilation was identified. Evaluation of photoheterotrophic H2 production using iRsp1095 indicated that maximal yield would be obtained from growing cells, with this predicted maximum ~50% higher than that observed experimentally from wild type cells. Competing pathways that might prevent the achievement of this theoretical maximum were identified to guide future genetic studies.

Conclusions

iRsp1095 provides a robust framework for future metabolic engineering efforts to optimize the solar- and nutrient-powered production of biofuels and other valuable products by R. sphaeroides and closely related organisms.
Ganglioneuroblastoma of the posterior mediastinum: a case report
Authors: Fatimi Saulat H , Bawany Samira A , Ashfaq Awais
Published: July 2011

Introduction

Ganglioneuroblastoma is a rare peripheral neuroblastic tumor that is derived from developing neuronal cells of the sympathetic nervous system, and is found mostly, but not exclusively, in babies and young children.

Case presentation

To the best of our knowledge, there have been no previously reported cases of ganglioneuroblastoma of the mediastinum from Pakistan. We present a case of ganglioneuroblastoma in an eight-year-old Pakistani Sindhi boy incidentally found to have a large posterior mediastinal mass that on biopsy initially looked like ganglioneuroma. He underwent successful excision of the mediastinal mass and remained stable post-operatively. Final pathology findings showed a ganglioneuroblastoma. He has remained free of symptoms on long-term follow-up.

Conclusions

The rarity of this tumor along with its almost exclusive occurrence in the pediatric population necessitates a thorough investigation of patients presenting with a symptomatic mass.
Premarital mental disorders and physical violence in marriage: cross-national study of married couples
Authors: Miller E. , Breslau J. , Petukhova M. , Fayyad J. , Green J. Greif , Kola L. , Seedat S. , Stein D. J. , Tsang A. , Viana M. C. , Andrade L. H. , Demyttenaere K. , de Girolamo G. , Haro J. M. , Hu C. , Karam E. G. , Kovess-Masfety V. , Tomov T. , Kessler R. C.
Published: July 2011

Background

Mental disorders may increase the risk of physical violence among married couples.

Aims

To estimate associations between premarital mental disorders and marital violence in a cross-national sample of married couples.

Method

A total of 1821 married couples (3642 individuals) from 11 countries were interviewed as part of the World Health Organization's World Mental Health Survey Initiative. Sixteen mental disorders with onset prior to marriage were examined as predictors of marital violence reported by either spouse.

Results

Any physical violence was reported by one or both spouses in 20% of couples, and was associated with husbands' externalising disorders (OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.2–2.3). Overall, the population attributable risk for marital violence related to premarital mental disorders was estimated to be 17.2%.

Conclusions

Husbands' externalising disorders had a modest but consistent association with marital violence across diverse countries. This finding has implications for the development of targeted interventions to reduce risk of marital violence.
CT Scan: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Stoodley Neil , Philip Shoba
Published: July 2011

Imaging plays an important factor in patient management in modern medicine. However this dependence on certain imaging modalities has increased the exposure of patients and indeed the general population to ionising radiation. The benefit of this increased use of modalities involving ionising radiation, comes at a potential cost as ionising radiation is well recognized as a potential cause of cancer. The risks of ionising radiation will be highlighted, as will strategies for minimizing that risk.
Reducing deaths from sepsis
Authors: Potter E K , Brostoff J M , Kapila A
Published: July 2011

This paper summarises the problem of the recognition and management of sepsis in in-patients. A case vignette describes a common scenario faced by trainees, in which timely and effective care is difficult to deliver. We offer suggestions for possible changes in hospital systems and care delivery that are likely to lead to better outcomes.
Why do clinicians repeatedly fail to prevent complete cauda equina syndrome through complacency?
Authors: Ferguson Gerry
Published: July 2011

Despite the growing body of medical literature and numerous case reports relating to NHS liability for failing to prevent cauda equine syndrome, Claimant Clinical Negligence Solicitors are still being instructed in relation to numerous cases arising from the same mistakes being made by clinicians.

This article contains a digest of case reports concerning cauda equina syndrome together with medical literature and a summary of learning points.
Data Structures for Higher-Dimensional Rectilinear Packing
Authors: Allen Sam D. , Burke Edmund K.
Published: July 2011

This paper presents an abstract data type (ADT) for producing higher-dimensional rectilinear packings using constructive methods, the Skyline ADT. Furthermore, a novel method and several approaches from the literature are presented in the form of concrete implementations of the presented ADT. Formal definitions of two three-dimensional packing problems are given, the concept of gaps is explained, and the polynomial growth worst-case behaviour of gaps is shown. The complexity of both the best-fit algorithm and implementations of the ADT are presented, and comparative runtime speeds are analysed over a range of data sets from the literature.
Circulating Tumor Cells in Breast Cancer:
Detection Systems, Molecular Characterization, and Future Challenges
Authors: Lianidou Evi S , Markou Athina
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND

Circulating tumor cell (CTC) analysis is a promising new diagnostic field for estimating the risk for metastatic relapse and metastatic progression in patients with cancer.

CONTENT

Different analytical systems for CTC isolation and detection have been developed as immunocytochemical and molecular assays, most including separation steps by size or biological characteristics, such as expression of epithelial- or cancer-specific markers. Recent technical advancements in CTC detection and characterization include methods based on multiplex reverse-transcription quantitative PCR and approaches based on imaging and microfilter and microchip devices. New areas of research are directed toward developing novel assays for CTC molecular characterization. QC is an important issue for CTC analysis, and standardization of micrometastatic cell detection and characterization methodologies is important for the incorporation of CTCs into prospective clinical trials to test their clinical utility. The molecular characterization of CTCs can provide important information on the molecular and biological nature of these cells, such as the status of hormone receptors and epidermal and other growth factor receptor family members, and indications of stem-cell characteristics. This information is important for the identification of therapeutic targets and resistance mechanisms in CTCs as well as for the stratification of patients and real-time monitoring of systemic therapies.

CTC analysis can be used as a liquid biopsy approach for prognostic and predictive purposes in breast and other cancers. In this review we focus on state-of-the-art technology platforms for CTC isolation, imaging, and detection; QC of CTC analysis; and ongoing challenges for the molecular characterization of CTCs.
Prognostic Utility of Secretory Phospholipase A2 in Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: O'Donoghue Michelle L , Mallat Ziad , Morrow David A , Benessiano Joelle , Sloan Sarah , Omland Torbjørn , Solomon Scott D , Braunwald Eugene , Tedgui Alain , Sabatine Marc S
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND

Secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) may contribute to atherogenesis. To date, few prospective studies have examined the utility of sPLA2 for risk stratification in coronary artery disease (CAD).

METHODS

We measured plasma sPLA2 activity at baseline in 3708 subjects in the PEACE randomized trial of trandolapril vs placebo in stable CAD. Median follow-up was 4.8 years. We used Cox regression to adjust for demographics, clinical risk factors, apolipoprotein B, apolipoprotein A1, and medications.

RESULTS

After multivariable adjustment, sPLA2 was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke (adjusted hazard ratio Q4:Q1 1.55, 95% CI 1.13–2.14) and cardiovascular death or heart failure (1.91, 1.20–3.03). In further multivariable assessment, increased activity levels of sPLA2 were associated with the risk of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke (adjusted hazard ratio 1.47, 95% CI 1.06–2.04), independent of lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 mass and C-reactive protein, and modestly improved the area under the curve (AUC) beyond established clinical risk factors (AUC 0.668–0.675, P = 0.01). sPLA2, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide, and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T all were independently associated with cardiovascular death or heart failure, and each improved risk discrimination (P = 0.02, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

sPLA2 activity provides independent prognostic information beyond established risk markers in patients with stable CAD. These data are encouraging for studies designed to evaluate the role of sPLA2 as a therapeutic target.
Elevated plasma levels of SPARC in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Wu Dandong , Li Ling , Yang Mengliu , Liu Hua , Yang Gangyi
Published: July 2011

Objective

Secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) also known as BM-40 which has been studied in various pathological conditions, has recently been suggested as a key player in the pathology of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, there are few studies on putative pathophysiologic roles of SPARC in glucose metabolism. The aim of this study was to determine whether plasma SPARC concentrations were altered in subjects with different glucose metabolic conditions and to investigate the affecting factors.

Design and methods

In this study, 54 newly diagnosed T2DM subjects, 53 subjects with impaired glucose regulation (IGR), and 53 normal subjects (body mass index (BMI): 24.98±3.75 vs 24.70±2.78 and 24.53±3.66 kg/m2,P>0.05) were enrolled. Plasma SPARC levels were measured with an ELISA under overnight fasting conditions. The relationships between plasma SPARC and several metabolic factors, such as BMI, blood lipids, blood glucose, plasma insulin levels, and other factors were also assessed.

Results

SPARC levels were higher in subjects with T2DM compared with IGR and control subjects (16.74±6.99 vs 14.04±8.03 μg/l,P<0.05 and 16.74±6.99 vs 11.72±4.47 μg/l,P<0.01). However, there was no difference in plasma SPARC levels between IGR subjects and the controls. Plasma SPARC levels correlated positively with BMI, the percentage of fat, triglyceride, fasting plasma insulin, 2 h plasma insulin after a glucose load, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance in simple regression analysis.

Conclusion

The present work indicates a potential link between SPARC and the pathogenesis of T2DM.
Can the microRNA signature distinguish between thyroid tumors of uncertain malignant potential and other well-differentiated tumors of the thyroid gland?
Authors: Lassalle Sandra , Hofman Véronique , Ilie Marius , Bonnetaud Christelle , Puisségur Marie-Pierre , Brest Patrick , Loubatier Céline , Guevara Nicolas , Bordone Olivier , Cardinaud Bruno , Lebrigand Kévin , Rios Géraldine , Santini Joseph , Franc Brigitte , Mari Bernard , Al Ghuzlan Abir , Vielh Philippe , Barbry Pascal , Hofman Paul
Published: July 2011

The term ‘thyroid tumors of uncertain malignant potential’ (TT-UMP) was coined by surgical pathologists to define well-differentiated tumors (WDT) showing inconclusive morphological evidence of malignancy or benignity. We have analyzed the expression of microRNA (miRNA) in a training set of 42 WDT of different histological subtypes: seven follicular tumors of UMP (FT-UMP), six WDT-UMP, seven follicular thyroid adenomas (FTA), 11 conventional papillary thyroid carcinomas (C-PTC), five follicular variants of PTC (FV-PTC), and six follicular thyroid carcinomas (FTC), which led to the identification of about 40 deregulated miRNAs. A subset of these altered miRNAs was independently validated by qRT-PCR, which included 18 supplementary TT-UMP (eight WDT-UMP and ten FT-UMP). Supervised clustering techniques were used to predict the first 42 samples. Based on the four possible outcomes (FTA, C-PTC, FV-PTC, and FTC), about 80% of FTA and C-PTC and 50% of FV-PTC and FTC samples were correctly assigned. Analysis of the independent set of 18 WDT-UMP by quantitative RT-PCR for the selection of the six most discriminating miRNAs was unable to separate FT-UMP from WDT-UMP, suggesting that the miRNA signature is insufficient in characterizing these two clinical entities. We conclude that considering FT-UMP and WDT-UMP as distinct and specific clinical entities may improve the diagnosis of WDT of the thyroid gland. In this context, a small set of miRNAs (i.e.miR-7,miR-146a,miR-146b,miR-200b,miR-221, andmiR-222) appears to be useful, though not sufficientper se, in distinguishing TT-UMP from other WDT of the thyroid gland.
Tools for mobile crane selecting and locating
Authors: Struková Z. , Ištvánik M.
Published: July 2011

Definition of types, amount and positions of cranes in construction site planning has a big impact on the overall productivity and cost effectiveness of a construction project. It is not rare, that engineers during preparation phase of construction fault in crane selection. It implies big financial losses for the company because of wrong crane rent. In visualisation of mobile crane operation in 3D is noticeable that working radius of the crane is considerably less then number listed in crane technical documentation (capacity chart). The built construction itself can reduce the crane radius when the crane boom snags the built object edge. Several computer applications were developed in order to help practitioners in selecting and using of cranes. In the paper is presented one version of non-commercial software tool (Mobile Crane Simulator) useful in construction preparation as a tool for selecting and locating of the mobile crane at construction sites. The tool was developed by authours of the paper. The principles of the tool creation are also explained.
Analytical solution for estimating the influence of a pre-existing ground water flow on a geothermal heat production-injection well system
Authors: David I. , Visescu M.
Published: July 2011

Geothermal energy source is the heat from the Earth, which ranges from the shallow ground (the upper 100 m of the Earth) to the hot water and hot rock which is a few thousand meters beneath the Earth's surface. In both cases the so-called open systems for geothermal energy resource exploitation consist of a groundwater production well to supply heat energy and an injection well to return the cooled water, from the heat pump after the thermal energy transfer, in the underground. In the paper an analytical method for a rapid estimation of the ground water flow direction effect on the coupled production well and injection well system will be proposed. The method will be illustrated with solutions and images for representative flow directions respect to the axis of the production/injection well system.
Numerical and experimental study on rotary draw bending of aluminium alloy tubes
Authors: Lăzărescu L.
Published: July 2011

In this paper a 3D finite element model of the bending process for circular aluminium alloy tube has been built using the explicit code eta/Dynaform and validated by comparing the experiments. The experiments were carried out by using a hand bender with the same bending principle as a rotary draw numerical controlled (NC) bender. The relationship between quality parameters of bent tubes, in terms of cross-section distortion and wall thinning, and the angular position along the bent tube is discussed experimentally in combination with FE simulation. Then, the effects of bending radius (R) are investigated using simulation of the bending process based on the finite element model. The results show that with the increase of bending radius, the cross-section degradation factor (Ψ) and wall thinning degree (ξ) decreases rapidly.
Study of heavy metal concentration and partitioning in the Estrela River: implications for the pollution in Guanabara Bay - SE Brazil
Authors: Rangel Carlos M. A. , Baptista Neto José A. , Fonseca Estefan M. , McAlister John , Smith Bernard J.
Published: July 2011

In this study, the geochemical analysis of ten sediment samples collected along the fluvial system of the Estrela River, which flows into the northern portion of Guanabara Bay, shows the presence of anthropogenic impacts in this area. Concentrations of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cr and Ni obtained were slightly higher, when compared with values found innatural environments. The particle size and organic matter content in most of the analyzed stations showed featuresnot conducive to the accumulation of pollutants due to the low organic matter content and the strong presence ofsand fraction. There was also the fractionation of heavy metals in sediments and it was found the prominence ofresidual and reducible phase, besides the significant occurrence of organic fractions in some analyzed stations. Thesefactors, thus, highlight the potential risks of contamination, where the metals associated with the organic phase canbecome bioavailable in processes of dissolution, provided by physico-chemical changes that can occur in this aquaticenvironment.
Validation of a protocol to evaluate maximal expiratory pressure using a pressure transducer and a signal conditioner
Authors: Soares Viviane , Rodrigues Fábio B. , Vieira Marcus F. , Silva Maria Sebastiana
Published: July 2011

The respiratory muscles can present fatigue and even chronic inability to generate force. So, reliable devices are necessary to their evaluation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the MEP (Maximal Expiratory Pressure) values of individuals between 20 and 25 years old and to validate a protocol using a pressure transducer and a signal conditioner comparing it with the digital manometer. We evaluated the MEP of 10 participants. They remained seated and made six respiratory maneuvers from Total Lung Capacity (TLC) to Residual Volume (RV). The results in the study showed no statistically significant differences when compared to values reported in the literature, and that the pressure transducer provides reliable values for MEP.
New spatial central configurations in the 5-body problem
Authors: Mello Luis F. , Fernandes Antonio C.
Published: July 2011

In this paper we show the existence of new families of convex and concave spatial central configurations for the 5-body problem. The bodies studied here are arranged as follows: three bodies are at the vertices of an equilateral triangle T, and the other two bodies are on the line passing through the barycenter of T that is perpendicular to the plane that contains T.
Qualidade da água para consumo humano e concentração de fluoreto
Authors: Frazão Paulo , Peres Marco A , Cury Jaime A
Published: July 2011

O artigo visa analisar a concentração de fluoreto na água para consumo humano, considerando o balanço entre benefícios e riscos à saúde, e produzir subsídios para atualização da legislação brasileira. Estudos de revisão sistemática, documentos oficiais e dados meteorológicos foram examinados. As temperaturas nas capitais brasileiras indicam que o fluoreto deveria variar de 0,6 a 0,9 mg/L para prevenir cárie dentária. Concentração de fluoreto natural de 1,5 mg/L é tolerável para consumo no Brasil se não houver tecnologia de custo-benefício aceitável para ajuste/remoção do seu excesso. A ingestão diária de água com fluoreto em concentração > 0,9 mg/L representa risco à dentição em menores de oito anos de idade e os consumidores deveriam ser expressamente informados desse risco. Considerando a expansão do programa nacional de fluoretação da água para regiões de clima tipicamente tropical, deve-se revisar a Portaria 635/75, relacionada ao fluoreto adicionado às águas de abastecimento público.
Precisão diagnóstica das doenças cirúrgicas nos exames por congelação
Authors: Silva Rafael Denadai Pigozzi da , Souto Luís Ricardo Martinhão , Matsushita Graziela de Macedo , Matsushita Marcus de Medeiros
Published: July 2011

OBJETIVO: Avaliar o grau de precisão diagnóstica dos exames por congelação em diferentes sítios anatômicos realizados em um serviço universitário de patologia. MÉTODOS: Foi realizado estudo retrospectivo a partir de banco de dados informatizado de todos os exames por congelação. Estes diagnósticos foram comparados com os definitivos em parafina, utilizados como controles. Os exames foram distribuídos em três grupos: inconclusivos, concordantes e não concordantes, sendo este último subdivido em falsos positivos e falsos negativos. As principais indicações dos exames e os sítios anatômicos envolvidos com as divergências diagnósticas também foram analisados. RESULTADOS: Quatrocentas e trinta e três peças cirúrgicas foram submetidas a exames por congelação, sendo a principal indicação o diagnóstico da lesão (75,75%). Em 404 exames (93,30%) os diagnósticos das biópsias por congelação e em parafina foram concordantes. Em 20 (4,62%) casos os resultados das biópsias por congelação foram inconclusivos e em nove (2,08%) ocorreram falsos negativos. Não houve resultados falsos positivos. O principal órgão avaliado foi a tireoide (25,64%). Na análise global, a região do corpo mais relacionada com os diagnósticos inconclusivos por congelação foi a tireoide (sete casos) e em relação aos sítios específicos foram os pulmões/pleura/mediastino (13,33%). Pele foi o órgão que mais apresentou diagnósticos discordantes entre biópsias por congelação e em parafina. CONCLUSÃO: A acurácia da congelação de forma global foi de 93,30%; por sítios anatômicos específicos, a precisão diagnóstica variou de 86,67% a 100%.
Publicação de trabalhos científicos apresentados em Congresso de Trauma no Brasil
Authors: Andrade Vitor Augusto de , Carpini Stela , Schwingel Ricardo , Calderan Thiago Rodrigues Araújo , Fraga Gustavo Pereira
Published: July 2011

OBJETIVO: Analisar a proporção de trabalhos apresentados no XXI Panamerican Congress of Trauma, VIII Congresso da Sociedade Brasileira de Atendimento Integrado ao Traumatizado (SBAIT) e X Congresso Brasileiro das Ligas do Trauma (CoLT) que foram publicados integralmente. MÉTODOS: Nos eventos citados que foram sediados em Campinas, em 2008, foram apresentados e publicados os resumos de 347 trabalhos. Para avaliar a proporçãode trabalhos completos publicados foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo observacional consultando as bases de dados biomédicas PubMed e SciELO, com apoio do Google, a partir do título dos resumos e da listagem de autores. RESULTADOS: Dos 347 trabalhos considerados, 25 (7,3%) eram de serviços estrangeiros e 322 (92,7%) de nacionais. Dez (2,9%) trabalhos foram publicados, dos quais, seis (1,7%) da área de enfermagem e quatro (1,2%) de medicina. Dentre estes, foram identificados quatro publicações de tese e apenas um dos trabalhos internacionais foi publicado. CONCLUSÃO: Apesar de haver um grande número de trabalhos apresentados em congressos de trauma no Brasil, as publicações nesta área são raras. A academia e as sociedades de cirurgia precisam estimular a submissão de trabalhos científicos mesmo antes da apresentação em congressos a fim de serem avaliados para publicação em revistas indexadas.
Influência da dieta com galactooligossacarídeos sobre a absorção de cálcio em ratos normais e gastrectomizados
Authors: Santos Elisvânia Freitas dos , Tsuboi Kathia Hitomi , Araújo Marina Rachel , Andreollo Nelson Adami , Miyasaka Celio Kenji
Published: July 2011

OBJETIVO: Verificar se o galactooligossacarídeo estimula a absorção de cálcio em ratos Wistar parcialmente gastrectomizados. MÉTODOS: Os animais foram laparotomizados (controle sham-operado) e parcialmente gastrectomizados (Billroth II) em grupos de 20 e 20 cada, respectivamente. Eles foram alimentados com uma dieta controle (AIN-93M), sem galacto-oligossacarídeo ou uma dieta contendo (galacto-oligossacarídeo - 50g/kg de dieta) durante oito semanas. Os animais foram divididos em quatro subgrupos: sham-operados e não gastrectomizados com galacto-oligossacarídeo, sham-operados e gastrectomizados sem galacto-oligossacarídeo. No dia final do estudo, o sangue total foi coletado para determinação da concentração de cálcio sérico. RESULTADOS: Na dieta no grupo com galacto-oligossacarídeo a excreção do cálcio nas fezes foi significativamente menor do que no grupo sem prebióticos. A absorção aparente de cálcio em ratos gastrectomizados e normais foi maior nos grupos alimentados com galacto-oligossacarídeo do que no grupo com dieta controle. CONCLUSÃO: A dieta com galacto-oligossacarídeos previne a osteopenia em ratos parcialmente gastrectomizados.
O consentimento informado: Qual o seu real valor na prática médica?
Authors: Minossi José Guilherme
Published: July 2011

Trata-se de um artigo que comenta sobre a real importância do Termo de Consentimento Informado na prática médica. Este documento tem sido cada vez mais usado como uma prática defensiva, a fim de constituir provas para defesa de um eventual processo judicial de responsabilidade médica, desvirtuando assim a idéia original, que seria a de respeitar a autonomia do paciente e delimitar a responsabilidade médica. O documento tem como objetivo mostrar que o médico cumpriu com seu dever de informar. Seu grande valor reside nos casos onde existam riscos de danos irreversíveis ao paciente. Conclui-se, porém, que um prontuário bem elaborado onde se inclui o registro das informações que foram transmitidas, bem como o grau de participação dos pacientes e seus familiares nas decisões terapêuticas, também deve ter valor ético e jurídico semelhante do TCI.
Insuficiência renal aguda em paciente tratada com ATRA e anfotericina B: relato de caso
Authors: Moresco Gelcimar , Martinello Flávia , Souza Liliete Canes
Published: July 2011

O presente relato apresenta o caso clínico de uma paciente com leucemia promie-locítica aguda tratada com ácido todo-transretinoico (ATRA), que apresentou suspeita de síndrome do ácido transreti-noico (síndrome de ATRA). Com a ocor-rência de leucopenia febril inespecífica, foram associados ao tratamento antimi-crobianos e antifúngicos. A diminuição da função renal, observada inicialmente, contribuiu para a suspeita de síndrome de ATRA, que foi agravada pelos antifúngi-cos. Assim, o uso de ATRA foi suspenso, mas somente 8 dias depois foi caracteriza-da pneumonia e descartada a hipótese de síndrome de ATRA. Nesse contexto, foi discutida a nefrotoxicidade do ATRA e a potencialização desse efeito adverso pelo uso de antifúngicos nefrotóxicos, em par-ticular da anfotericina B, assim como a im-portância do diagnóstico diferencial entre síndrome de ATRA e doença infecciosa.