bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fractional exhaled nitric oxide concentration is increased in asbestosis and pleural plaques
Authors: SANDRINI Alessandra , JOHNSON Anthony R. , THOMAS Paul S. , YATES Deborah H.
Published: April 2006

Objective and background:  Asbestos exposure induces generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Nitric oxide is involved in asbestos‐related lung toxicity in vitro and can be measured non‐invasively in humans in exhaled breath. The authors hypothesized that fractional exhaled nitric oxide concentration (FENO) would be increased in subjects with asbestos‐related lung disorders.

Methods:  FENO was measured in 56 subjects with asbestos‐related disorders (asbestosis: 12; pleural plaques: 32; asbestos‐related diffuse pleural thickening: 12) and in 35 normal subjects. The authors also measured exhaled carbon monoxide, another marker of lung inflammation.

Results:  Median (25–75 percentile) FENO was increased in subjects with asbestosis (7.9 (6.6–15.7) p.p.b.; P = 0.001) and pleural plaques (6.3 (5.3–9) p.p.b.; P = 0.03) compared with normal controls (4.6 (3.5–6) p.p.b.) ). Subjects with DPT had a median FENO of 5.6 p.p.b., similar to controls. No significant differences in exhaled carbon monoxide were observed between controls (1.0 ± 0.3 p.p.m.) and subjects with asbestosis (1.3 ± 0.3 p.p.m.), pleural plaques (1.2 ± 0.3 p.p.m.) or diffuse pleural thickening (1.1 ± 0.3 p.p.m.).

Conclusions:  FENO is raised in asbestosis consistent with lung inflammation, and also in pleural plaques.
Marked discordance for myopia in female monozygotic twins
Authors: Dirani Mohamed , Chamberlain Matthew , Garoufalis Pam , Chen Christine , Guymer Robyn H , Baird Paul N
Published: April 2006

Abstract

Female monozygotic twins aged 54 years discordant for myopia are reported. One twin presented with bilateral high myopia (right eye = −6.00/+0.50 × 5°, left eye = −6.00/+0.50 × 45°) and her identical twin had no significant refractive error (right eye = −0.50/plano, left eye = −0.50/+0.75 × 40°). An explanation for the striking refractive discordance seen in this case report is yet to be determined.
STATES AND MICROSTATES IN A MEAN-FIELD APPROACH TO THE MINORITY GAME AND ITS GENERALIZATIONS
Authors: CARIDI INES , CEVA HORACIO
Published: April 2006

We developed a mean-field approach to the Minority Game, that allows us to reproduce the behavior of the model in the phase in which a so-called "dynamics of period two" is present. This dynamics describes the situation where the model is controlled by the presence of crowds of agents participating in the game. Our approach is based on the hypothesis that we can introduce states representative of the system, in such a form that averages over time can be replaced by averages over those states. The main idea is to work with virtual agents, rather than working with the actual set of agents of a particular game. Virtual agents are built from all the possible pairs of the strategies available in the model (the Full Strategy Space FSS). Moreover, we define an ensemble of microstates and, thereafter, states compatible with the specifications of the game. In this work we explain in detail how to introduce these elements, and how to actually calculate the ensemble of states and microstates. We have developed one generalization of the Minority Game as an attempt to make the model more realistic, by introducing interactions among the agents. We also discuss and explain the adequate ensemble of states and microstates for that generalization.
UNCERTAINTY RELATIONS FOR THE TIME-DEPENDENT SINGULAR OSCILLATOR
Authors: CHOI J. R. , NAHM I. H.
Published: April 2006

Uncertainty relations for the time-dependent singular oscillator in the number state and in the coherent state are investigated. We applied our developement to the Caldirola–Kanai oscillator perturbed by a singularity. For this system, the variation (Δx) decreased exponentially while (Δp) increased exponentially with time both in the number and in the coherent states. As k → 0 and χ → 0, the number state uncertainty relation in the ground state becomes 0.583216ℏ which is somewhat larger than that of the standard harmonic oscillator, ℏ/2. On the other hand, the uncertainty relation in all excited states become smaller than that of the standard harmonic oscillator with the same quantum number n. However, as k → ∞ and χ → 0, the uncertainty relations of the system approach the uncertainty relations of the standard harmonic oscillator, (n+1/2)ℏ.
Influence of intensity of food restriction on skeletal muscle mitochondrial energy metabolism in rats
Authors: Johnson Gyasi , Roussel Damien , Dumas Jean-François , Douay Olivier , Malthièry Yves , Simard Gilles , Ritz Patrick
Published: April 2006

Variable durations of food restriction (FR; lasting weeks to years) and variable FR intensities are applied to animals in life span-prolonging studies. A reduction in mitochondrial proton leak is suggested as a putative mechanism linking such diet interventions and aging retardation. Early mechanisms of mitochondrial metabolic adaptation induced by FR remain unclear. We investigated the influence of different degrees of FR over 3 days on mitochondrial proton leak and mitochondrial energy metabolism in rat hindlimb skeletal muscle. Animals underwent 25, 50, and 75% and total FR compared with control rats. Proton leak kinetics and mitochondrial functions were investigated in two mitochondrial subpopulations, intermyofibrillar (IMF) and subsarcolemmal (SSM) mitochondria. Regardless of the degree of restriction, skeletal muscle mass was not affected by 3 days of FR. Mitochondrial basal proton conductance was significantly decreased in 50% restricted rats in both mitochondrial subpopulations (46 and 40% for IMF and SSM, respectively) but was unaffected in other groups compared with controls. State 3 and uncoupled state 3 respiration rates were decreased in SSM mitochondria only for 50% restricted rats when pyruvate + malate was used as substrate (−34.5 and −38.9% compared with controls, P < 0.05). IMF mitochondria respiratory rates remained unchanged. Three days of FR, particularly at 50% FR, were sufficient to lower mitochondria energetic metabolism in both mitochondrial populations. Our study highlights an early step in mitochondrial adaptation to FR and the influence of the severity of restriction on this adaptation. This step may be involved in an aging-retardation process.
Nursing Issues in Hong Kong
Authors: Baumann Steven L.
Published: April 2006

Changes in nursing in Hong Kong over the past decade have had more to do with the changes in the world and the region’s economy and population than the changes instituted by the Republic of China. Hong Kong’s nearly 7 million people’s health is, like in other places, threatened by a shortage of skilled and experienced nurses. Hong Kong’s three major university-based nursing programs, if they can work together creatively, have the potential to avert a decline in quality of healthcare in Hong Kong and advance nursing at the same time.
STAT3 induces transcription of the DNA methyltransferase 1 gene (DNMT1) in malignant T lymphocytes
Authors: Zhang Qian , Wang Hong Y. , Woetmann Anders , Raghunath Puthiyaveettil N. , Odum Niels , Wasik Mariusz A.
Published: April 2006

In this study, we demonstrated that STAT3, a well-characterized transcription factor expressed in continuously activated oncogenic form in the large spectrum of cancer types, induces in malignant T lymphocytes the expression of DNMT1, the key effector of epigenetic gene silencing. STAT3 binds in vitro to 2 STAT3 SIE/GAS-binding sites identified in promoter 1 and enhancer 1 of the DNMT1 gene. STAT3 also binds to the promoter 1 region and induces its activity in vivo. Treatment of the malignant T lymphocytes with STAT3 siRNA abrogates expression of DNMT1, inhibits cell growth, and induces programmed cell death. In turn, inhibition of DNMT1 by a small molecule inhibitor, 5-aza-2-deoxy-cytidine, and 2 DNMT1 antisense DNA oligonucleotides inhibits the phosphorylation of STAT3. These data indicate that STAT3 may in part transform cells by fostering epigenetic silencing of tumor-suppressor genes. They also indicate that by inducing DNMT1, STAT3 facilitates its own persistent activation in malignant T cells. Finally, these data provide further rationale for therapeutically targeting STAT3 in T-cell lymphomas and, possibly, other malignancies.
ULBPs, human ligands of the NKG2D receptor, stimulate tumor immunity with enhancement by IL-15
Authors: Sutherland Claire L. , Rabinovich Brian , Chalupny N. Jan , Brawand Pierre , Miller Robert , Cosman David
Published: April 2006

ULBPs are human ligands for NKG2D, an activating receptor expressed on natural killer (NK) cells, NK1.1+ T cells, and T cells. ULBPs are expressed by a variety of leukemias, carcinomas, melanomas, and tumor cell lines. ULBP expression correlates with improved survival in cancer patients, however, the nature of the immune response that ULBPs elicit is not well understood. We report that ectopic expression of ULBP1 or ULBP2 on murine EL4 or RMA tumor cells elicits potent antitumor responses in syngeneic C57BL/6 and SCID mice. Although binding of ULBP3 to murine NKG2D could not be demonstrated in vitro, ULBP3 can also stimulate antitumor responses, suggesting that ULBP3 binds to murine NKG2D or possibly another receptor in vivo. ULBP expression was found to recruit NK cells, NK1.1+ T cells, and T cells to the tumor. IL-15 was found to strongly enhance the immune response directed against ULBP-expressing tumors. Tumors can evade NKG2D immunity by down-regulating expression of NKG2D. Our data suggest that IL-15 may be useful for overcoming this tumor-evasion strategy. Together, these results demonstrate that ULBP expression can elicit a potent immune response and suggest that ULBPs, alone or in combination with IL-15, can be exploited for antitumor therapy.
Quantitative prediction of mouse class I MHC peptide binding affinity using support vector machine regression (SVR) models
Authors: Liu Wen , Meng Xiangshan , Xu Qiqi , Flower Darren R , Li Tongbin
Published: April 2006

Background

The binding between peptide epitopes and major histocompatibility complex proteins (MHCs) is an important event in the cellular immune response. Accurate prediction of the binding between short peptides and the MHC molecules has long been a principal challenge for immunoinformatics. Recently, the modeling of MHC-peptide binding has come to emphasize quantitative predictions: instead of categorizing peptides as "binders" or "non-binders" or as "strong binders" and "weak binders", recent methods seek to make predictions about precise binding affinities.

Results

We developed a quantitative support vector machine regression (SVR) approach, called SVRMHC, to model peptide-MHC binding affinities. As a non-linear method, SVRMHC was able to generate models that out-performed existing linear models, such as the "additive method". By adopting a new "11-factor encoding" scheme, SVRMHC takes into account similarities in the physicochemical properties of the amino acids constituting the input peptides. When applied to MHC-peptide binding data for three mouse class I MHC alleles, the SVRMHC models produced more accurate predictions than those produced previously. Furthermore, comparisons based on Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis indicated that SVRMHC was able to out-perform several prominent methods in identifying strongly binding peptides.

Conclusion

As a method with demonstrated performance in the quantitative modeling of MHC-peptide binding and in identifying strong binders, SVRMHC is a promising immunoinformatics tool with not inconsiderable future potential.
Gender effect on clinical features of achalasia: a prospective study
Authors: Mikaeli Javad , Farrokhi Farnoosh , Bishehsari Faraz , Mahdavinia Mahboobeh , Malekzadeh Reza
Published: April 2006

Background

Achalasia is a well-characterized esophageal motor disorder but the rarity of the disease limits performing large studies on its demographic and clinical features.

Methods

Prospectively, 213 achalasia patients (110 men and 103 women) were enrolled in the study. The diagnosis established by clinical, radiographic, and endoscopic as well as manometry criteria. All patients underwent a pre-designed clinical evaluation before and within 6 months after the treatment.

Results

Solid dysphagia was the most common clinical symptom in men and women. Chest pain was the only symptom which was significantly different between two groups and was more complained by women than men (70.9% vs. 54.5% P value= 0.03). Although the occurrence of chest pain significantly reduced after treatment in both groups (P < 0.001), it was still higher among women (32% vs. 20.9% P value= 0.04). In both sexes, chest pain did not relate to the symptom duration, LES pressure and type of treatment patients received. Also no significant relation was found between chest pain and other symptoms expressed by men and women before and after treatment. Chest pain was less frequently reported by patients over 56 yrs of age in comparison to those less than 56 yrs (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

It seems that chest pain is the distinct symptom of achalasia which is affected by sex as well as age and does not relate to the duration of illness, LESP and the type of treatment achalasia patients receive.
A dosimetric analysis of respiration-gated radiotherapy in patients with stage III lung cancer
Authors: Underberg René WM , van Sörnsen de Koste John R , Lagerwaard Frank J , Vincent Andrew , Slotman Ben J , Senan Suresh
Published: April 2006

Background

Respiration-gated radiotherapy can permit the irradiation of smaller target volumes. 4DCT scans performed for routine treatment were retrospectively analyzed to establish the benefits of gating in stage III non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Materials and methods

Gross tumor volumes (GTVs) were contoured in all 10 respiratory phases of a 4DCT scan in 15 patients with stage III NSCLC. Treatment planning was performed using different planning target volumes (PTVs), namely: (i) PTVroutine, derived from a single GTV plus 'conventional' margins; (ii) PTVall phases incorporating all 3D mobility captured by the 4DCT; (iii) PTVgating, incorporating residual 3D mobility in 3–4 phases at end-expiration. Mixed effect models were constructed in order to estimate the reductions in risk of lung toxicity for the different PTVs.

Results

Individual GTVs ranged from 41.5 – 235.0 cm3. With patient-specific mobility data (PTVall phases), smaller PTVs were derived than when 'standard' conventional margins were used (p < 0.001). The average residual 3D tumor mobility within the gating window was 4.0 ± 3.5 mm, which was 5.5 mm less than non-gated tumor mobility (p < 0.001). The reductions in mean lung dose were 9.7% and 4.9%, respectively, for PTVall phases versus PTVroutine, and PTVgating versus PTVall phases. The corresponding reductions in V20 were 9.8% and 7.0%, respectively. Dosimetric gains were smaller for primary tumors of the upper lobe versus other locations (p = 0.02). Respiratory gating also reduced the risks of radiation-induced esophagitis.

Conclusion

Respiration-gated radiotherapy can reduce the risk of pulmonary toxicity but the benefits are particularly evident for tumors of the middle and lower lobes.
New Chiral Stationary Phases with Two Chiral Centers for the Liquid Chromatographic Resolution of Racemic Anti-inflammatory Drugs Related to α-Arylpropionic Acids
Authors: Hyun Myung Ho , Hwang Seung-Ryul , Ryoo Jae-Jeong
Published: April 2006

New chiral stationary phases (CSPs) with two chiral centers were prepared from (R)- or (S)-α-naphthylethylamine and (S)-naproxen. The (R,S)-CSP prepared from (R)-α-naphthylethylamine and (S)-naproxen was found to be very successful in resolving 3,5-dinitroanilide derivatives of anti-inflammatory drugs related to α-arylpropionic acids.
Long Range Intramolecular Glycosidation
Authors: Bols Mikael , Hansen Henrik C
Published: April 2006

Stereocontrolled synthesis of glycosides was achieved by intramolecular glycosidation of an aglycon tethered to the 4,5 and 6 position of a thioglycoside donor.
Regioselective Synthesis of Prenylphenols. Syntheses of Naturally Occurring 4′-Alkenyloxy-2′,6′-dihydroxy-3′-(3-methyl-2-butenyl)acetophenones
Authors: Tsukayama Masao , Kikuchi Makoto , Kawamura Yasuhiko
Published: April 2006

The palladium-catalyzed coupling reaction of 4′,6′-bis(benzyloxy)-3′-iodo-2′-tosyloxyacetophenone with 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol gave 4′,6′-bis(benzyloxy)-3′-(3-hydroxy-3-methylbutynyl)-2′-tosyloxyacetophenone (7). Dehydration of the benzoate obtained via two steps from 7 gave the 3′-prenylacetophenone, which was converted into 4′,6′-dihydroxy-3′-prenyl-2′-tosyloxyacetophenone (12). Respective geranylation and prenylation of 12, followed by hydrolysis gave 4′-geranyloxy- and 4′-prenyloxy-2′,6′-dihydroxy-3′-prenylacetophenone (1 and 2). The structures of natural prenylacetophenones proposed as 2′-alkenyloxy isomers were revised as 1 and 2, respectively.
The Migration of Double Bond under the Neutral Conditions. The Transformation of α-Alkylidene Cyclic Carbonyl Compounds to α,β-Unsaturated Cyclic Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Tanaka Masahide , Mitsuhashi Hiroshi , Maruno Masao , Wakamatsu Takeshi
Published: April 2006

The transformation of α-alkylidene cyclic carbonyl compounds to α,β-unsaturated cyclic carbonyl compounds was achieved. In the presence of catalytic amount of triethylsilane, tris(triphenylphosphine)rhodium chloride was found to affect the migration of double bonds. Because of the neutral nature of reaction medium, the reaction proceeded in a clean manner without side reactions.
Palladium Ion-exchanged SAPO-5 as a Catalyst for Low Temperature Combustion of Methane
Authors: Ishihara Tatsumi , Sumi Hideaki , Takita Yusaku
Published: April 2006

The combustion activity of molecular sieves ion-exchanged by Pd were investigated as a catalyst for low temperature combustion of CH4. Among the molecular sieves examined, silicoaluminophosphate-5 (SAPO-5) ion-exchanged by Pd exhibited the highest activity for CH4 combustion as well as the high thermal stability. Since the high dispersion of Pd was attained, the CH4 conversion at 90% attained at 753 K, which is 200 K lower than that of conventional Pd/Al2O3 catalysts.
The Structures of Two Lindenane Sesquiterpene Glucosides from Chloranthus glaber
Authors: Okamura Hiroaki , Nakashima Nobutoshi , Iwagawa Tetsuo , Nakayama Noboru , Nakatani Munehiro
Published: April 2006

Two glucosides of lindenane sesquiterpenes have been first isolated along with three known lindenane sesquiterpenes from Chloranthus glaber Makino and the structures were elucidated by spectroscopic and chemical means.
Degradation of Poly(2-oxepanone) by Phytopathogens
Authors: Nishida Haruo , Tokiwa Yutaka
Published: April 2006

Microbial degradation of poly(2-oxepanone):poly(ε-caprolactone)(PCL) by four kinds of phytopathogens was investigated with agar medium containing emulsified PCL. All phytopathogens formed clear-zones around the colonies with degrading PCL on yeast extract-agar plates. It was discussed that PCL may be an analogue of natural aliphatic polyesters such as cutin.
A Striking Effect of Spin Multiplicity on the Photoinduced Electron-Transfer Reaction of a 1-Vinylnaphthalene – Pyromellitic Dianhydride System
Authors: Nakajima Takahiro , Shirota Yasuhiko
Published: April 2006

The photochemical reaction of a 1-vinylnaphthalene – pyromellitic dianhydride system is found to show a striking effect of spin multiplicity on the reaction pathway; whereas the radical ion pair generated in the electronically excited singlet state readily undergoes back electron transfer, that produced in the triplet state leads to the formation of a 2 : 1 adduct. The present study presents an example which suggests the control of back electron transfer by spin multiplicity in the photoinduced electron-transfer reaction.
Highly Efficient TiO2 Film Photocatalyst. Degradation of Gaseous Acetaldehyde
Authors: Sopyan Iis , Murasawa Sadao , Hashimoto Kazuhito , Fujishima Akira
Published: April 2006

A glass-supported pure anatase film with an extremely high photocatalytic activity has been prepared. Photocatalytic properties of the film were investigated by measuring the degradation of gaseous acetaldehyde under relatively strong (black fluorescent light) and weak (white fluorescent light) UV light irradiations. It was found that the photocatalytic efficiency was higher than that of Degussa P25, one of the most efficient commercial TiO2 powders.
Poly(pyridine-2,5-diyl) Containing Indigo Unit and Optical Third Harmonic Generation from Its Film
Authors: Yamamoto Takakazu , Kizu Kenichi , Maruyama Tsukasa , Ooba Naoki , Tomaru Satoru , Kubota Kenji
Published: April 2006

A copolymer of pyridine-2,5-diyl and indigo-6,6′-diyl has been prepared by dehalogenation polycondensation using Ni(0) complex. The copolymer forms a good film, and the film shows the three-photon resonant third-order nonlinear susceptibility χ(3) of about 10−11 esu at absorption of poly(pyridine-2,5-diyl) unit.
The Treatment of Economic Issues by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Authors: Henderson David
Published: April 2006

Issues relating to climate change, and to the choice of policies for dealing with it, are now highly topical. In Britain, both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition have recently emphasised the urgent need for measures to limit greenhouse gas emissions, and Mr Blair has stated his intention to place this issue high on the agenda of the coming G8 summit meeting. In this context, readers may be interested to hear of some recent exchanges relating to economic aspects of these issues. Aside from their intrinsic interest, the exchanges raise wider questions as to the role of economics and economists in the policy process. David Henderson, formerly (among other things) Head of the Economics and Statistics Department of the OECD, and now Visiting Professor at the Westminster Business School, has been one of the participants in the current debate. This is his personal report.
Activation of Group III Metabotropic Glutamate Receptors Attenuates Rotenone Toxicity on Dopaminergic Neurons through a Microtubule-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Jiang Qian , Yan Zhen , Feng Jian
Published: April 2006

Systemic administration of rotenone, a widely used pesticide, causes selective degeneration of nigral dopaminergic (DA) neurons and Parkinson’s disease-like symptoms in animal models. Our previous study has shown that the microtubule-depolymerizing activity of rotenone plays a critical role in its selective toxicity on tyrosine hydroxylase-positive (TH+) neurons in rat embryonic midbrain neuronal cultures. Here, we show that application of group III metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluRIII) agonists (e.g.,l-AP-4) significantly reduced rotenone toxicity on midbrain TH+neurons in culture. The protective effect ofl-AP-4 was abolished by pharmacological inhibition of the microtubule-associated protein (MAP) kinase kinase (MEK) or overexpression of dominant-negative MEK1, suggesting its dependence on the MAP kinase cascade. We found thatl-AP-4 induced a rapid and transient activation of the MAP kinase extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) through a pathway mediated by dynamin, β-arrestin 2, and Src. ERK activated in this manner targeted cytosolic rather than nuclear substrates. Consistent with this,l-AP-4 significantly attenuated rotenone- or colchicine-induced microtubule depolymerization in an MEK-dependent manner. Moreover,l-AP-4 decreased colchicine toxicity on TH+neurons in an MEK-dependent manner as well. The protective effect ofl-AP-4 against rotenone toxicity was occluded by the microtubule-stabilizing agent Taxol. Together, these results suggest that activation of group III metabotropic glutamate receptors attenuates the selective toxicity of rotenone on DA neurons by activating the MAP kinase pathway to stabilize microtubules. These findings may offer a novel neuroprotective approach against rotenone-induced parkinsonism.
Recurrent Connection Patterns of Corticostriatal Pyramidal Cells in Frontal Cortex
Authors: Morishima Mieko , Kawaguchi Yasuo
Published: April 2006

Corticostriatal pyramidal cells are heterogeneous in the frontal cortex. Here, we show that subpopulations of corticostriatal neurons in the rat frontal cortex are selectively connected with each other based on their subcortical targets. Using paired recordings of retrogradely labeled cells, we investigated the synaptic connectivity between two projection cell types: those projecting to the pons [corticopontine (CPn) cell], often with collaterals to the striatum, and those projecting to both sides of the striatum but not to the pons [crossed corticostriatal (CCS) cell]. The two types were morphologically differentiated in regard to their apical tufts. The dendritic morphologies of CCS cells were correlated with their somatic depth within the cortex. CCS cells had reciprocal synaptic connections with each other and also provided synaptic input to CPn cells. However, connections from CPn to CCS cells were rarely found, even in pairs showing CCS to CPn connectivity. Additionally, CCS cells preferentially innervated the basal dendrites of other CCS cells but made contacts onto both the basal and apical dendrites of CPn cells. The amplitude of synaptic responses was to some extent correlated with the contact site number. Ratios of the EPSC amplitude to the contact number tended to be larger in the CCS to CCS connection. Therefore, our data demonstrate that these two types of corticostriatal cells distinct in their dendritic morphologies show directional and domain-dependent preferences in their synaptic connectivity.
Windup in Dorsal Horn Neurons Is Modulated by Endogenous Spinal μ-Opioid Mechanisms
Authors: Guan Yun , Borzan Jasenka , Meyer Richard A. , Raja Srinivasa N.
Published: April 2006

The μ-opioid receptor (MOR) plays a critical role in morphine analgesia and nociceptive transmission. However, the physiological roles for endogenous MOR mechanisms in modulating spinal nociceptive transmission, and particularly in the enhanced excitability of spinal nociceptive neurons after repeated noxious inputs, are less well understood. Using a MOR gene knock-out (−/−) approach and an MOR-preferring antagonist, we investigated the roles of endogenous MOR mechanisms in processing of acute noxious input and in neuronal sensitization during windup-inducing stimuli in wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons. Extracellular single-unit activity of WDR neurons was recorded in isoflurane-anesthetizedMOR−/−and wild-type C57BL/6 mice. There were no significant differences between the genotypes in the responses of deep WDR cells to acute mechanical stimuli, graded electrical stimuli, and noxious chemical stimuli applied to the receptive field. Intracutaneous electrical stimulation at 1.0 Hz produced similar levels of windup in both genotypes. In contrast, 0.2 Hz stimulation induced significantly higher levels of windup inMOR−/−mice compared with the wild-type group. In wild-type mice, spinal superfusion with naloxone hydrochloride (10 mm, 30 μl) significantly enhanced windup to 0.2 Hz stimulation in both deep and superficial WDR cells. A trend toward facilitation of windup was also observed during 1.0 Hz stimulation after naloxone treatment. These results suggest that endogenous MOR mechanisms are not essential in the processing of acute noxious mechanical and electrical stimuli by WDR neurons. However, MORs may play an important role in endogenous inhibitory mechanisms that regulate the development of spinal neuronal sensitization.
Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells Participate in the Regenerative Response to Perinatal Hypoxia/Ischemia
Authors: Felling Ryan J. , Snyder Matthew J. , Romanko Michael J. , Rothstein Raymond P. , Ziegler Amber N. , Yang Zhengang , Givogri Maria I. , Bongarzone Ernesto R. , Levison Steven W.
Published: April 2006

Perinatal hypoxia/ischemia (H/I) is the leading cause of neurologic injury resulting from birth complications. Recent advances in critical care have dramatically improved the survival rate of infants suffering this insult, but ∼50% of survivors will develop neurologic sequelae such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy or cognitive deficits. Here we demonstrate that tripotential neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPs) participate in the regenerative response to perinatal H/I as their numbers increase 100% by 3 d and that they alter their intrinsic properties to divide using expansive symmetrical cell divisions. We further show that production of new striatal neurons follows the expansion of NSPs. Increased proliferation within the NSP niche occurs at 2 d after perinatal H/I, and the proliferating cells express nestin. Of those stem-cell related genes that change, the membrane receptors Notch1, gp-130, and the epidermal growth factor receptor, as well as the downstream transcription factor Hes5, which stimulate NSP proliferation and regulate stem cellness are induced before NSP expansion. The mechanisms for the reactive expansion of the NSPs reported here reveal potential therapeutic targets that could be exploited to amplify this response, thus enabling endogenous precursors to restore a normal pattern of brain development after perinatal H/I.
Peripheral Antinociceptive Effects of Exogenous and Immune Cell-Derived Endomorphins in Prolonged Inflammatory Pain
Authors: Labuz Dominika , Berger Stephan , Mousa Shaaban A. , Zöllner Christian , Rittner Heike L. , Shaqura Mohammed A. , Segovia-Silvestre Toni , Przewlocka Barbara , Stein Christoph , Machelska Halina
Published: April 2006

Endomorphins (EMs) are endogenous selective μ-opioid receptor agonists. Their role in inflammatory pain has not been fully elucidated. Here we examine peripheral antinociception elicited by exogenously applied EM-1 and EM-2 and the contribution of EM-containing leukocytes to stress- and corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF)-induced antinociception. To this end, we applied behavioral (paw pressure) testing, radioligand binding, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry in rats with unilateral hindpaw inflammation induced with Freund’s adjuvant. EMs injected directly into both hindpaws produced antinociception exclusively in inflamed paws. This was blocked by locally applied μ-receptor-selective (d-Phe-Cys-Tyr-d-Trp-Orn-Thr-Pen-Thr-NH2) but not κ-receptor-selective (nor-binaltorphimine) antagonists. δ-Receptor antagonists (naltrindole andN,N-diallyl-Tyr-Aib-Aib-Phe-Leu) did not influence EM-1-induced but dose-dependently decreased EM-2-induced antinociception. Antibodies against β-endorphin, methionine-enkephalin, or leucine-enkephalin did not significantly change EM-2-induced antinociception. Both EMs displaced binding of [3H]-[d-Ala2,N-Me-Phe4,Gly5-ol]enkephalin to μ-receptors in dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Using [3H]-naltrindole or [125I]-[d-Pen2,5]-enkephalin, no detectable δ-binding was found in DRG of inflamed hindlimbs. Numerous β-endorphin-containing and fewer EM-1- and EM-2-containing leukocytes were detected in subcutaneous tissue of inflamed paws. Leukocyte-depleting serum decreased the number of immigrating opioid-containing immune cells and attenuated swim stress- and CRF-induced antinociception in inflamed paws. Both forms of antinociception were strongly attenuated by anti-β-endorphin and to a lesser degree by anti-EM-1 and anti-EM-2 antibodies injected into inflamed paws. Together, exogenously applied and immune cell-derived EMs alleviate prolonged inflammatory pain through selective activation of peripheral opioid receptors. Exogenous EM-2 in addition to μ-receptors also activates peripheral δ-receptors, which does not involve actions via other opioid peptides.
Exploiting gas diffusion for non-invasive sampling in flow analysis: determination of ethanol in alcoholic beverages
Authors: Vicente Simone , Zagatto Elias A.G. , Pinto Paula C.A.G. , Saraiva Maria Lucia M.E.S. , Lima José L.F.C. , Borges Eduardo P.
Published: April 2006

A tubular gas diffusion PTFE membrane is exploited for non-invasive sampling in flow analysis, aiming to develop an improved spectrophotometric determination of ethanol in alcoholic beverages. The probe is immersed into the sample, allowing ethanol to diffuse through the membrane. It is collected into the acceptor stream (acidic dichromate solution), leading to formation of Cr(III), monitored at 600 nm. The analytical curve is linear up to 50% (v/v) ethanol, baseline drift is < 0.005 absorbance during four working-hours, and sample throughput is 30 h-1, meaning 0.6 mmol K2Cr2O7 per determination. Results are precise (r.s.d.< 2%) and in agreement with an official procedure.
Seasonal pelage color change: news based on a South American Rodent
Authors: Camargo Carolina R. , Colares Elton , Castrucci Ana Maria L.
Published: April 2006

Mammalian seasonalmolting and color change are known to be influencedby photoperiod changes. Calomys laucha, a South American rodent, exhibits seasonal pelage color change; however, unlike Northern hemisphere rodents, which present a gray or brown color during summer and a whitish color during winter, C. laucha pelage changes from an orange color during summer to a dark gray color during winter. Animals maintained for over a year in stationary photoperiod (LD 12:12h, 22ºC) presented orange pelage color during the summer corresponding month (January), and gray color during the winter corresponding month (July). Same age animals were evaluated during summer or winter months, and also showed different colors. Animals exposed for 12 weeks to summer or winter artificial conditions displayed color change, not according to the environmental conditions, as expected, but similar to that of animals maintained in stationary photoperiod. These results suggest that pelage color change in C. laucha is controlled by an endogenous circannual rhythm. The adaptive function of C. laucha color change is discussed.
Mutations in collagen 18A1 (COL18A1) and their relevance to the human phenotype
Authors: Passos-Bueno Maria Rita , Suzuki Oscar T. , Armelin-Correa Lucia M. , Sertié Andréa L. , Errera Flavia I.V. , Bagatini Kelly , Kok Fernando , Leite Katia R.M.
Published: April 2006

Collagen XVIII, a proteoglycan, is a component of basement membranes (BMs). There are three distinct isoforms that differ only by their N-terminal, but with a specific pattern of tissue and developmental expression. Cleavage of its C-terminal produces endostatin, an inhibitor of angiogenesis. In its N-terminal, there is a frizzled motif which seems to be involved in Wnt signaling. Mutations in this gene cause Knobloch syndrome KS), an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by vitreoretinal and macular degeneration and occipital encephalocele. This review discusses the effect of both rare and polymorphic alleles in the human phenotype, showing that deficiency of one of the collagen XVIII isoforms is sufficient to cause KS and that null alleles causing deficiency of all collagen XVIII isoforms are associated with a more severe ocular defect. This review besides illustrating the functional importance of collagen XVIII in eye development and its structure maintenance throughout life, it also shows its role in other tissues and organs, such as nervous system and kidney.
Mobilização total do seio urogenital para tratamento da genitália ambígua em crianças com hiperplasia adrenal congênita
Authors: Braga Luís Henrique P. , Silva Ivani Novato , Tatsuo Edson Samesima
Published: April 2006

A abordagem cirúrgica das pacientes com hiperplasia adrenal congênita (HAC) é um desafio e envolve controvérsias. O objetivo deste estudo é avaliar os resultados da correção da genitália em 10 crianças 46 XX com HAC, pela técnica de mobilização total do seio urogenital (MUT), em tempo único. A idade, por ocasião do tratamento cirúrgico, variou de 11 a 78 meses (média= 32 meses) e o seguimento pós-operatório de 15 a 36 meses (média= 26 meses). O aspecto estético foi considerado bom em 7, com uretra e vagina bem exteriorizados no vestíbulo, e satisfatório em 3. Após o acompanhamento médio de 26 meses, a técnica de MUT, por via perineal, sem divisão do reto, se mostrou eficaz para o tratamento da genitália ambígua em crianças com HAC.
Avaliação do meio "Agar Xilose Lisina Verde Brilhante" no isolamento de Salmonella
Authors: Falcão Deise Pasetto , Suassuna Italo , Suassuna Ivone Rocco
Published: April 2006

Ao pesquisar-se a presença de Salmonella a partir de materiais diversos, foram empregados vários meios de cultura e entre eles o meio Agar Xilose Lisina Verde Brilhante, com a finalidade de avaliá-lo em relação a outros meios seletivo-indicadores mais comumente empregados no isolamento desses microrganismos. Os resultados mostraram que o meio Agar Xilose Lisina Verde Brilhante foi inferior aos Agar SS e Agar Verde Brilhante, ligeiramente superior ao Agar EMB e superior ao Agar Sulfito de Bismuto no isolamento de Salmonella. Grande vantagem adicional desse meio é que as colônias de Salmonella apresentam-se facilmente identificáveis.
Amostragem domiciliar contínua em estudos epidemiológicos e no ensino
Authors: Carvalheiro José da Rocha , Sanches Odécio
Published: April 2006

Descreve-se um sistema contínuo de levantamento de condições de saúde, por entrevistas domiciliárias, operando em Ribeirão Preto (SP) desde 1974. Comentam-se as vantagens quanto à sua utilização na investigação de problemas específicos surgidos nesse período, bem como a sua utilização no ensino.
Estudo da infecção esquistossomótica produzida pelas linhagens humana e silvestre do Vale do Rio Paraíba do Sul, SP (Brasil), em camundongos isogênicos
Authors: Bastos Othon de Carvalho , Magalhães Luiz Augusto , Pareja Gilda B.
Published: April 2006

Foi estudada a influência da isogenicidade de camundongos de laboratório na capacidade de penetração de cercárias de Schistosoma mansoni de linhagem humana do Vale do Rio Paraíba do Sul, SP. Foram estudados, comparativamente, aspectos da biologia e da patogenia das linhagens humana e silvestre do S. mansoni do Vale do Rio Paraíba do Sul, SP (Brasil) em camundongos isogênicos. Foi vantajoso o uso de camundongos isogênicos devido a maior homogeneidade dos resultados e a maior penetração de cercárias pelo tegumento da cauda dos roedores.
Identificação de cepas de Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas em amostras de fezes, por reação de imunofluorescência direta
Authors: Longo Ieda Maria , Ricci Jr. Octavio , Pereira Carlos Augusto
Published: April 2006

Foi realizado diagnóstico etiológico de casos de diarréia aguda em 121 pacientes internados na Clínica Pediátrica do Hospital da Santa Casa de São Paulo, Brasil. Foram utilizados os métodos bacteriológico clássico e de reação de imunofluorescência direta para a identificação de cepas de Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas: para estudo da sensibilidade das cepas de Escherichia coli isoladas, a diferentes antibióticos, foi usado o método de Concentração Inibitória Minima (CIM). Dos 56 casos positivos, 89,3% correspondiam a diferentes sorotipos enteropatogênicos de Escherichia coli, quando utilizada a técnica de imunofluorescência direta. O método bacteriológico clássico revelou ainda, nos 121 casos examinados, 4 cepas de Salmonella e 2 de Shigella. No estudo da CIM verificou-se maior sensibilidade das cepas de Escherichia coli enteropatogênicas estudadas à Gentamicina e Amikacina, do que aos outros antibióticos.
Candidin: comparison of two antigens for cutaneous delayed hypersensitivity testing
Authors: Fava-Netto Celeste , Gambale Walderez , Croce Júlio , Paula Claudete R. , Fava Sérgio de C.
Published: April 2006

A candidin, which is a suspension of killed yeast cells, is commonly used for intradermal tests of delayed hypersensitivity, to evaluate the immunological cellular competence of the patient, when the test is applied along with other similar tests. When working with a cellular antigen, the histopathology of positive skin tests reveals a cellular infiltrate which not only presents a characteristic hypersensitivity reaction but also a neutrophilic abscess in the central part. This research presents the results of a comparison between the yeast cell suspension and the polysaccharide antigens, both obtained from the same strains of Candida albicans. The results obtained by skin tests in one hundred individuals were 61.0% with the polysaccharide antigen and 69.0% with the yeast cell suspension antigen. Concordant results concerning the two antigens were observed in 82.0% of the individuals. The discussion section presents an assumption to explain the differences of positivity obtained with the two antigens. We conclude that the polysaccharide antigen can be utilized in the intradermal test of delayed hypersensitivity to Candida albicans.
Isoenzyme profile as parameter to differentiate pathogenic strains of Entamoeba histolytica in Brazil
Authors: Martinez Ana Maria Barral de , Gomes Maria Aparecida , Viana João da Costa , Romanha Alvaro José , Silva Edward Felix
Published: April 2006

The isoenzyme profiles (IP) of 33 strains of Entamoeba histolytica isolated from patients and carriers of two regions in Brazil (Amazonia and Southeast) were determined. The enzymes phosphoglucomutase, glucose-phosphate isomerase, hexokinase and malic enzyme were considered. IP of the strains was correlated with culture conditions, time of maintenance in laboratory and clinical history of patients. The strains were maintained under polyxenic, monoxenic and axenic culture conditions: 27 polyxenic, 1 polyxenic and monoxenic, 1 polyxenic, monoxenic and axenic and 4 axenic only. The patients were symptomatic and asymptomatic. The symptomatic patients presented either non dysenteric (NDC) or dysenteric colitis (DC), associated or not with hepatic abscess (HA). One patient presented anal amoeboma (AM). The analysis of IP for isolates maintained in polyxenic culture showed non pathogenic IP (I) for strains from carriers and patients with NDC, while the strains isolated from patients presenting DC, HA and AM resulted in isolates II or XIX pathogenic IP. This parameter was not able to differentiate strains from carriers from symptomatic patients when these strains were found in axenic or monoxenic culture. All these strains displayed pathogenic IP (II), demonstrating the inability of this parameter to classifying for virulence since it showed identical IP for strains isolated from carriers or symptomatic patients.
Human cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis in Santiago del Estero, Argentina: identification of parasites by monoclonal antibodies and isoenzymes
Authors: Cuba Cuba C.A. , Torno C.O. , Ledesma O. , Visciarelli E. , Garcia S. , Prat M.I. , Costamagna R. , Barbieri L. , Evans D.A.
Published: April 2006

Diagnostic and parasite characterization and identification studies were carried out in human patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions in Santiago del Estero, Northern Province of Argentina. Diagnostic procedures were biopsies of lesions for smears and inoculations in hamster, needle aspirations of material from ulcers for "in vitro" cultures. Immunodiagnostic techniques applied were IFAT-IgG and Montenegro skin test. Primary isolation of eight stocks of leishmanial parasites was achieved from patients with active lesions. All stocks were biologically characterized by their behaviour in hamster, measurements of amastigote and promastigotes and growth "in vitro". Eight stocks were characterized and identified at species level by their reactivity to a cross-panel of sub-genus and specie-specific Monoclonal Antibodies through an Indirect Immunofluorescence technique and a Dot-ELISA. We conclude from the serodeme analysis of Argentina stocks that: stocks MHOM/AR/92/SE-1; SE-2; SE-4; SE-8; SE-8-I; SE-30; SE-34 and SE-36 are Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis. Three Leishmania stocks (SE-1; SE-2 and SE-30) did not react with one highly specie-specific Monoclonal Antibody (Clone: B-18, Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis marker) disclosing two serodeme group patterns. Five out of eight soluble extracts of leishmanial promastigotes were electrophoresed on thin-layer starch gels and examined for the enzyme MPI, Mannose Phosphate Isomerase; MDH, Malate Dehydrogenase; 6PGD, 6 Phosphogluconate Dehydrogenase; NH, Nucleoside Hydrolase, 2-deoxyinosinc as substrate; SOD, Superoxide Dismutase; GPI, Glucose Phosphate Isomerase and ES, Esterase. From the isoenzyme studies we concluded that stocks: MHOM/AR/92/SE-1; SE-2; SE-4; SE-8 and SE-8-I are isoenzymatically Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis. We need to analyze more enzymes before assigning them to a braziliensis zymodeme.
Clinical guideline for diagnosis and management of melioidosis
Authors: Inglis Timothy J.J. , Rolim Dionne B. , Rodriguez Jorge L.N.
Published: April 2006

Melioidosis is an emerging infection in Brazil and neighbouring South American countries. The wide range of clinical presentations include severe community-acquired pneumonia, septicaemia, central nervous system infection and less severe soft tissue infection. Diagnosis depends heavily on the clinical microbiology laboratory for culture. Burkholderia pseudomallei, the bacterial cause of melioidosis, is easily cultured from blood, sputum and other clinical samples. However, B. pseudomallei can be difficult to identify reliably, and can be confused with closely related bacteria, some of which may be dismissed as insignificant culture contaminants. Serological tests can help to support a diagnosis of melioidosis, but by themselves do not provide a definitive diagnosis. The use of a laboratory discovery pathway can help reduce the risk of missing atypical B. pseudomallei isolates. Recommended antibiotic treatment for severe infection is either intravenous Ceftazidime or Meropenem for several weeks, followed by up to 20 weeks oral treatment with a combination of trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole and doxycycline. Consistent use of diagnostic microbiology to confirm the diagnosis, and rigorous treatment of severe infection with the correct antibiotics in two stages; acute and eradication, will contribute to a reduction in mortality from melioidosis.
Seasonal variation of Lutzomyia longipalpis in Belo Horizonte, State of Minas Gerais
Authors: Resende Marcelo Carvalho de , Camargo Maria Cristina Viana , Vieira Jaqueline Reis Marinho , Nobi Regina Celi Antunes , Porto Maria Nunes , Oliveira Claudia Di Lourenzo , Pessanha José Eduardo , Cunha Maria da Consolação Magalhães , Brandão Silvana Teles
Published: April 2006

Between October, 1997 and September, 1999 in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais a study of seasonal variation of Lutzomyia longipalpis was carried out in three distinct areas of the municipality. Sand flies were sampled at 15-day intervals in three residences, in each of which two CDC light traps were installed, one indoors and the other in the peridomicile. A total of 397 sand flies were captured in the three areas, with 65%, 30% and 1% of specimens collected in the eastern, northeast and Barreiro districts, respectively. The overall proportions of sand flies collected inside and around the houses were similar (57% vs 43%) and this pattern was seen for both Lutzomyia longipalpis and Lutzomyia whitmani . The highest population levels during the two years of the study were from October to March. From October onwards, numbers increased constantly until February. A gradual fall was seen from April onwards until the lowest levels were reached in the months of June, July and August.
Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Acari: Ixodidae), the brown dog tick, parasitizing humans in Brazil
Authors: Dantas-Torres Filipe , Figueredo Luciana Aguiar , Brandão-Filho Sinval Pinto
Published: April 2006

The objective of this paper is to describe four cases of human parasitism by Rhipicephalus sanguineus (Latrielle) in Brazil. During an investigation regarding the species of ectoparasites of domestic dogs from the metropolitan region of Recife, Pernambuco state, four dog owners were found to be parasitized by ticks. The ticks were collected from these individuals and their dogs. All the ticks were identified as Rhipicephalus sanguineus . These are, to our knowledge, the first four cases of human parasitism by this tick species in Brazil. The possible implications of this finding are discussed here.