bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specialist Training: A More Flexible Approach?
Authors: Eaton Kenneth A
Published: June 2009

The General Dental Council (GDC) consultation on flexible dental training for the specialties opened on 18th March and ran until 10th June 2009. It is therefore unlikely that the outcomes of the consultation will be known by the time this edition of Primary Dental Care is published. However, it is worth considering the developments that have led to the consultation (the historical background), the role of the GDC, and the possible implications for the Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) (henceforth, ‘the Faculty’) and its members. It is also pertinent to question why, at present, the majority of those entering specialist training do so early in their professional career, before they have gained wide general experience.
Impact of Nicotine Replacement Therapy on Postoperative Mortality Following Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Paciullo Christopher A , Short Marintha R , Steinke Douglas T , Jennings Heath R
Published: July 2009

Background:

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) has recently been associated with increased mortality in patients in medical intensive care units (ICUs). Although NRT is frequently used in cardiothoracic surgery patients, no safety data exist for use in this population.

Objectives:

To ascertain the impact of NRT on in-hospital mortality following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Methods:

This was a retrospective matched cohort pilot study in a 22-bed cardiothoracic surgery ICU. Patients prescribed transdermal NRT after CABG were randomly selected and matched to current smokers not prescribed NRT according to Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores (N = 134). Data on comorbid conditions and pack-year history were also obtained. To compare these patients with nonsmoking patients, a larger unmatched population was also evaluated. The total number of patients prescribed NRT, current smokers not prescribed NRT, and nonsmokers who were evaluated in our study was 2057.

Results:

Sixty-seven NRT patients were well matched with 67 current smokers in terms of baseline demographics and procedures. Mortality was nonsignificantly higher in the NRT group versus the non-NRT smoker group (4.5% vs 0.0%; p = 0.080). In an evaluation of a larger population controlled for differences in baseline characteristics, an increase in mortality due to NRT was found (OR 6.06; 95% CI 1.65 to 22.21). In an a priori subgroup of the overall population, mortality was significantly higher in patients receiving NRT after off-pump CABG versus smokers not receiving NRT (OR 6.49; 95% CI 1.29 to 32.56).

Conclusions:

The use of NRT in a postoperative CABG surgery population resulted in a significant increase in mortality when adjusted for baseline characteristics. Patients receiving NRT after off-pump cardiac surgery may be particularly susceptible. Additional evaluation in large patient cohorts with prospective controls is warranted.
Use of β-Blockers in Patients with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Authors: LaPointe Nancy M Allen , Stafford Judith A , Pappas Paul A , Al-Khatib Sana M , Anstrom Kevin J
Published: July 2009

Background:

Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) are indicated for both primary and secondary prevention of sudden cardiac arrest, β-Blockers are also indicated in most patients who have an indication for an ICD; however, their use in this population is not well described. Some clinicians may be unaware of the recommendation for β-blockers in this population.

Objective:

To explore β-blocker use among ICD recipients.

Methods:

Adults who received their first ICD at Duke Hospital between July 1999 and July 2004 for primary or secondary prevention of sudden cardiac arrest were identified. Using hospital data, β-blocker use was determined at time of discharge, and characteristics of users were compared with those of nonusers. Continued use of β-blockers after ICD implant was explored in the subset of patients included in the Duke Databank for Cardiovascular Disease (DDCD).

Results:

The study cohort comprised 804 patients, 652 (81%) with ICD for secondary prevention of sudden cardiac arrest and 152 (19%) for primary prevention. The median age was 65 years and 75% of the patients were men. A total of 544 (68%) received a β-blocker at time of ICD implant. There were no substantial changes in the proportion of patients with β-blocker use from 1999 through 2004, overall or within the primary or secondary prevention groups. However, β-blocker use was higher in the secondary prevention group than in the primary prevention group (69% vs 60%; p = 0.02). A higher proportion of β-blocker users versus nonusers had ischemic heart disease (82% vs 68%; p < 0.0001), heart failure (84% vs 71%; p < 0.0001), previous myocardial infraction (51 % vs 44%; p = 0.05), and ventricular arrhythmias (82% vs 76%; p = 0.04). Of the 425 patients included in the DDCD, only 241 (57%) were receiving β-blockers at time of implant and during clinical follow-up.

Conclusions:

Lower than optimal use of β-blockers suggests the need for new methods of including evidence-based medications in clinical practice, especially for complex patients for whom numerous clinical practice guidelines may apply.
Grade differences in reading motivation among Hong Kong primary and secondary students
Authors: Lau Kit‐Ling
Published: July 2009

Background Most previous studies in Western societies have demonstrated a general decline in school motivation. However, it is not clear whether motivational decline occurs uniformly for all students. The moderating effects of individual and cultural differences on students' motivational decline need to be further explored.

Aims This study aimed to examine the grade differences in students' reading motivation, including self‐efficacy, intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, and social motivation, in a Chinese educational context. Grade by gender and grade by school‐average achievement interactions were also checked to explore the role of individual differences in students' motivational changes.

Sample A total of 1,794 students (860 boys and 934 girls) volunteered to take part in this study, of whom 648 were Grade 4–6 students from 11 primary schools, 627 were Grade 7–9 students from 12 junior secondary schools, and 519 Grade 10–11 students from 6 senior secondary schools.

Method A Chinese version of the Motivation for Reading Questionnaire (CRMQ) was administered to all participants during regular class periods by their teachers. Reliability analyses and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were first undertaken to assess the psychometric quality of the CRMQ. Then, multisample CFA was conducted to examine whether the factor structure of the CRMQ was equivalent across students at different grade levels. Grade differences in various reading motivation constructs as well as grade × gender and grade × school‐average achievement interactions were examined using multiple‐indicator‐multiple‐causes modelling.

Results The findings of this study supported the reliability and the factor structure of the CRMQ in measuring the reading motivation of Chinese students at different grade levels. The factor pattern of the CRMQ was invariant across primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary students in multisample CFA. As far as the scores on the four reading motivation constructs were concerned, students scored most highly on intrinsic motivation, followed by self‐efficacy, extrinsic motivation, and social motivation. Significant grade differences were found in all reading motivation constructs whereas only a few grade by gender and grade by school‐average interactions were found.

Conclusion Consistent with previous studies in Western countries, the findings suggest that motivational decline is also a common phenomenon among Chinese students in Hong Kong. In addition, the pattern of motivational differences is generally consistent among students with different genders and from schools with different achievement levels. The implications of these findings for understanding Chinese students' reading motivation and for planning effective reading instruction to enhance their motivation are discussed.
Association between kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) and macroscopic indicators of semen analysis: their relation to sperm motility
Authors: Emami Nashmil , Scorilas Andreas , Soosaipillai Antoninus , Earle Tammy , Mullen Brendan , Diamandis Eleftherios P.
Published: June 2009

Human kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) are a family of proteases, the majority of which are found in seminal plasma and have been implicated in semen liquefaction. Here, we examined the clinical value of seminal KLKs in the evaluation of semen quality and differential diagnosis and etiology of abnormal liquefaction and/or viscosity. KLK1–3, 5–8, 10, 11, 13, and 14 were analyzed, using highly specific ELISA assays. Samples were categorized into four clinical groups, according to their state of liquefaction and viscosity. Data were compared between the clinical groups and in association with other parameters of sperm quality, including number of motile sperms, straight line speed, sperm concentration, volume, pH, and patient age. Seminal KLKs were found to be differentially expressed in the four clinical groups. Combination of KLK2, 3, 13, and 14 and KLK1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, and 14 showed very strong discriminatory potential for semen liquefaction and viscosity, respectively. Liquefaction state was associated with several parameters of sperm motility. Finally, KLK14 was differentially expressed in asthenospermic cases. In conclusion, the expression level of several seminal plasma KLKs correlates with liquefaction and viscosity indicators of semen quality and may aid in their differential diagnosis and etiology.
A dual role of the N-terminal FQQI motif in GLUT4 trafficking
Authors: Bernhardt Ulrike , Carlotti Françoise , Hoeben Rob C. , Joost Hans-Georg , Al-Hasani Hadi
Published: June 2009

In adipocytes, the glucose transporter GLUT4 recycles between intracellular storage vesicles and the plasma membrane. GLUT4 is internalized by a clathrin- and dynamin-dependent mechanism, and sorted into an insulin-sensitive storage compartment. Insulin stimulation leads to GLUT4 accumulation on the cell surface. The N-terminal F5QQI motif in GLUT4 has been shown previously to be required for sorting of the protein in the basal state. Here, we show that the FQQI motif is a binding site for the medium chain adaptin μ1, a subunit of the AP-1 adaptor complex that plays a role in post-Golgi/endosomal trafficking events. In order to investigate the role of AP-1 and AP-2 in GLUT4 trafficking, we generated 3T3-L1 adipocytes expressing HA-GLUT4-GFP and knocked down the AP-1 and AP-2 complex by RNAi, respectively. In AP-1 and AP-2 knockdown adipocytes, GLUT4 accumulates at the cell surface in the basal state, consistent with a role of AP-1 in post-endosomal sorting of GLUT4 to the insulin-sensitive storage compartment, and of AP-2 in clathrin-mediated endocytosis. Our data demonstrate a dual role of the F5QQI motif and support the conclusion that the AP complexes direct GLUT4 trafficking and endocytosis.
Effect of a quaternary pentamine on RNA stabilization and enzymatic methylation
Authors: Hayrapetyan Armine , Grosjean Henri , Helm Mark
Published: June 2009

Extreme thermophiles produce unusually long polyamines, including the linear caldopentamine (Cdp) and the branched pentamine tetrakis(3-aminopropyl)-ammonium (Taa), with the latter containing a central quaternary ammonium moiety. Here we compare the interaction of these two pentamines with RNA by studying the heat denaturation, electrophoretic behavior, and ability of tRNA to be methylated in vitro by purified tRNA methyltransferases under various salt conditions. At concentrations in the micromolar range, branched Taa causes a considerable increase in the melting temperature (T
m) of yeast tRNAPhe transcripts by >20°C, which is significantly greater than stabilization by the linear Cdp. In non-denaturing gel electrophoresis, strong and specific binding to Taa, but not to Cdp, was clearly observed for tRNAPhe. In both types of experiments, polyamines and monovalent metal ions competed for binding sites. Structural probing revealed no significant conformational changes in tRNA on Taa binding. In post-transcriptional in vitro methylation reactions, the formation of m2G/m2
2G by the methyltransferase Trm1p and of m1A by TrmIp were not affected or only slightly stimulated by polyamines. In contrast, Taa specifically inhibited Trm4p-dependent formation of m5C only in tRNAPhe, likely by occupying sites that are relevant to RNA recognition by the methyltransferase.
The effect of endogenous preproneuropeptide Y leucine 7 to proline 7 polymorphism on growth and apoptosis in primary cultured HUVECs
Authors: Kaipio Katja , Kallio Jaana , Pesonen Ullamari
Published: June 2009

Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is a universally expressed neuropeptide involved in the regulation of several physiological functions. The rather common leucine7 to proline7 (L7P) polymorphism in the signal peptide of preproNPY is a functional substitution, which changes the processing and release of NPY in cells. The mutation is associated with altered lipid levels and accelerated atherosclerosis in humans. Based on previous studies, we investigated the effect of the Pro7 allele in endothelial cells, which are known to play a role in the development of atherosclerosis. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were studied in primary cultured, genotyped human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Our results indicate that cells with the [p.L7]+[p.P7] genotype seem to have a tendency to be more sensitive to the growth stimulating effect of NPY and less sensitive to the effect of vascular endothelial growth factor compared to cells with the [p.L7]+[p.L7] genotype. Additionally, cells with the [p.L7]+[p.P7] genotype seem to be more sensitive to apoptosis than [p.L7]+[p.L7] cells. We speculate that the L7P substitution in preproNPY might cause a state of cellular pre-senescence, leading to endothelial dysfunction. This might be one reason for the associations of the L7P polymorphism with atherosclerosis and type II diabetes found in clinical studies.
Peritumoral administration of GPI-anchored TIMP-1 inhibits colon carcinoma growth in Rag-2 γ chain-deficient mice
Authors: Raggi Matthias C. , Djafarzadeh Roghieh , Muenchmeier Niklas , Hofstetter Monika , Jahn Birgit , Rieth Nicole , Nelson Peter J.
Published: June 2009

Exogenous application of recombinant TIMP-1 protein modified by addition of a glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchor allows efficient insertion of the fusion protein into cell membranes. This ‘cell surface engineering’ leads to changes in the proteolytic environment. TIMP-1-GPI shows enhanced as well as novel in vitro biological activities including suppression of proliferation, reduced migration, and inhibition of invasion of the colon carcinoma cell line SW480. Treatment of SW480 tumors implanted in Rag (-/-) common γ chain (-/-) C57BL/6 mice with peritumorally applied TIMP-1-GPI, control rhTIMP-1 protein, or vehicle shows that TIMP-1-GPI leads to a significant reduction in tumor growth.
Metzincin's canonical methionine is responsible for the structural integrity of the zinc-binding site
Authors: Oberholzer Anselm E. , Bumann Mario , Hege Thomas , Russo Santina , Baumann Ulrich
Published: June 2009

The metzincins constitute a subclan of metalloproteases possessing a HEXXHXXGXXH/D zinc-binding consensus sequence where the three histidines are zinc ligands and the glutamic acid is the catalytic base. A completely conserved methionine is located downstream of this motif. Families of the metzincin clan comprise, besides others, astacins, adamalysins proteases, matrix metallo-proteases, and serralysins. The latter are extracellular 50 kDa proteases secreted by Gram-negative bacteria via a type I secretion system. While there is a large body of structural and biochemical information available, the function of the conserved methionine has not been convincingly clarified yet. Here, we present the crystal structures of a number of mutants of the serralysin member protease C with the conserved methionine being replaced by Ile, Ala, and His. Together with our former report on the leucine and cysteine mutants, we demonstrate here that replacement of the methionine side chain results in an increasing distortion of the zinc-binding geometry, especially pronounced in the χ2 angles of the first and third histidine of the consensus sequence. This is correlated with an increasing loss of proteolytic activity and a sharp increase of flexibility of large segments of the polypeptide chain.
Mitochondrial tRNA import – the challenge to understand has just begun
Authors: Alfonzo Juan D. , Söll Dieter
Published: June 2009

Mitochondrial translation is important for the synthesis of proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation, which yields the bulk of the ATP made in cells. During evolution most mitochondria-containing organisms have lost tRNA genes from their mitochondrial genomes. Thus, to support the essential process of nuanced mitochondrial translation, mechanisms to actively transport tRNAs from the cytoplasm across the mitochondrial membranes into the mitochondrion have evolved. Here, we review the currently known tRNA import mechanisms, comment on recent discoveries of various import factors, and suggest a rationale for forces that lie behind the evolution of mitochondrial tRNA import.
Induced human pluripotent stem cells: promises and open questions
Authors: Rolletschek Alexandra , Wobus Anna M.
Published: June 2009

Adult cells have been reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells by introducing pluripotency-associated transcription factors. Here, we discuss recent advances and challenges of in vitro reprogramming and future prospects of iPS cells for their use in diagnosis and cell therapy. The generation of patient-specific iPS cells for clinical application requires alternative strategies, because genome-integrating viral vectors may cause insertional mutagenesis. Moreover, when suitable iPS cell lines will be available, efficient and selective differentiation protocols are needed to generate transplantable grafts. Finally, we point to the requirement of a regulatory framework necessary for the commercial use of iPS cells.
Epidermal growth factor receptor signaling in liver cell proliferation and apoptosis
Authors: Reinehr Roland , Häussinger Dieter
Published: June 2009

Recent evidence suggests that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-dependent signaling contributes to liver cell proliferation, as well as to apoptotic liver cell death, and represents an important regulator of hepatic regeneration. This article summarizes recent findings on the molecular mechanisms involved in EGFR-mediated cell proliferation and apoptosis. The emphasis is on the interplay between EGFR and CD95 (Fas, APO-1) death receptor-signaling, which is determined by the signaling context and liver cell type investigated.
Effect of curcumin on amyloidogenic property of molten globule-like intermediate state of 2,5-diketo-d-gluconate reductase A
Authors: Sarkar Nandini , Narain Singh Abhay , Kumar Dubey Vikash
Published: June 2009

We identified a molten globule-like intermediate of 2,5-diketo-d-gluconate reductase A (DKGR) at pH 2.5, which has a prominent β-sheet structure. The molten globule state of the protein shows amyloidogenic property >50 μm protein concentration. Interestingly, a 1:1 molar ratio of curcumin prevents amyloid formation as shown by the Thioflavin-T assay and atomic force microscopy. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on amyloid formation by an (α/β)8-barrel protein. The results presented here indicate that the molten globule state has an important role in amyloid formation and potential application of curcumin in protein biotechnology as well as therapeutics against amyloid diseases.
Influence of prematurity and growth restriction on the adipokine profile, IGF1, and ghrelin levels in cord blood: relationship with glucose metabolism
Authors: Martos-Moreno Gabriel Á , Barrios Vicente , Sáenz de Pipaón Miguel , Pozo Jesús , Dorronsoro Izaskun , Martínez-Biarge Miriam , Quero José , Argente Jesús
Published: June 2009

Objective

To determine the influence of gestational age and fetal growth restriction on the cord blood adipokine profile, IGF1, and ghrelin levels, and their relationship with glucose metabolism.

Study design

One hundred and ninety newborns (99 preterm and 91 full term) were studied and, according to their anthropometry at birth, classified as small (SGA) or adequate for gestational age (AGA).

Methods

Venous cord blood serum levels of IGF1, IGF binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3), adiponectin, resistin, leptin, soluble leptin receptor (sOB-R), tumoral necrosis factor-α, interleukin 6 (IL-6), total ghrelin, and acylated ghrelin were determined and compared between preterm and full-term, as well as between SGA and AGA, newborns. Correlations with newborn weight, gestational age, and homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) index, as an index of insulin resistance, were determined.

Results

Preterm newborns had higher HOMA, sOB-R, resistin, and IL-6 and lower IGF1, IGFBP-3, leptin, and adiponectin levels than full-term newborns. SGA had lower IGF1, IGFBP-3, leptin, IL-6, and adiponectin and higher sOB-R and total ghrelin than AGA newborns. Adiponectin and HOMA showed independent positive and negative correlations with gestational age respectively, but not with neonatal weight. Birth weight was correlated positively with IGF1 and leptin levels and negatively with total ghrelin ones.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the lack of proper acquisition of adipose tissue by the fetus either due to prematurity or to fetal growth restriction is associated with changes in the cord blood adipokine profile that may contribute to the impairment of glucose metabolism.
Restricted thyroglobulin antibody epitope specificities in subjects with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Okosieme O E , Wijeyaratne C N , Lazarus J H , Premawardhana L D K E
Published: June 2009

Objectives

Following iodisation in Sri Lanka we observed a high prevalence of thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAbs) in type 1 diabetic (T1DM) patients. The clinical significance of these TgAbs is uncertain. We sought to obtain a detailed epitope analysis of TgAbs in T1DM patients recruited from diabetes clinics and to compare these with TgAb epitope specificities in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) and healthy individuals in that country.

Design and methods

We used a panel of 10 Tg-MAbs in competitive ELISA reactions in a prospective study of subjects recruited from Colombo, to determine the epitopes recognised by TgAb-positive patients with T1DM (n=58, 34F:24M, median age 16 years), AITD patients (n=42, 33F:9M, median age 37 years) and healthy subjects (n=50, 39F:11M, median age 27 years). The outcomes were a comparison of reactivity with six Tg clusters (I–VI) in these subjects, and the relation of epitope specificity patterns with free thyroxine and TSH.

Results

Patients with T1DM and AITD but not healthy control subjects preferentially recognised the immunodominant clusters, I, III and IV. Patients with these narrow epitope specificities had higher median TSH levels (1.60 vs 1.06;P=0.01), and were more frequently positive for antibodies to thyroid peroxidase than those with broad specificities (52.3 vs 7.1%;P=0.004).

Conclusions

The TgAb epitope specificities in euthyroid Sri Lankans with T1DM are similar to AITD patients. TgAb epitope studies may potentially identify T1DM patients at risk of thyroid dysfunction.
Short Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Navarro Fernando , Gleason Wallace A. , Rhoads J. Marc , Quiros-Tejeira Ruben E.
Published: July 2009

Short bowel syndrome (SBS) is a relatively common, often lethal, and highly costly medical problem in North America. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the leading cause of SBS in the United States. An important fact to remember is that the length of the small bowel in a 28-week preterm infant is about 150 cm and in a term infant is about 250 cm. Twenty percent of this length is generally sufficient to allow dependence on parenteral nutrition (PN) via intestinal adaptation. This process is driven by significant increases in circulating trophic hormones, such as cholecystokinin, epidermal and keratinocyte growth factors, growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-1, and glucagon-like peptide-2. These hormones produce hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the villi, along with increases in specific brush border membrane absorption mechanisms, such as glucose-sodium cotransport (via SGLT-1) and peptide transport (via Pep-T1). Currently, the best clinical markers of intestinal adaptation are the calculated percentage of enteral versus parenteral calories in a growing infant who has SBS and the serum concentrations of citrulline, an amino acid synthesized by mature enterocytes that has been used as a measure of functional intestinal mass.
Morbidade da esquistossomose no Brasil: IV. Evolução em pacientes tratados e seus controles
Authors: Santos Mozart Lima dos , Coura José Rodrigues
Published: July 2009

Um estudo comparativo sobre a evolução da morbidade da esquistossomose mansoni em pacientes tratados e não tratados em uma área endêmica, foi realizado após um e seis anos do tratamento inicial. No primeiro ano após o tratamento verificou-se uma drástica redução do número de ovos de S. mansoni por grama de fezes eliminadas pelos pacientes tratados em relação aos controles e também melhores condições clínicas dos pacientes tratados. Entretanto, ao final de seis anos de observação, embora o número de ovos de S. mansoni eliminados pelos pacientes tratados ainda fosse menor do que no grupo controle ele se aproximava do número inicial antes do tratamento. Em ambos os grupos houve evolução para formas clínicas mais graves, embora com uma certa tendência para maior gravidade no grupo controle. Recomenda-se que o tratamento da população em áreas endêmicas deva ser feito com intervalos de dois a três anos e não se dispensam medidas profiláticas como suprimento de aguá encanada nas casas e educação de base da população.
Anothor Trypanosoma, distinct from T. cruzi, multiplies in the lumen of the anal glands the opossum Didelphis marsupialis
Authors: Deane Maria P. , Jansen Ana Maria
Published: July 2009

Epimastigotes were found multiplying in the anal glands and in hemocultures of an opossum; rare metacyclics were seen in the cultures. The flagellate is possibly T. (Megatrypanum) freitasi Rego, Magalhães & Siqueira, 1957, but its final identification is still pending.
Leishmaniose tegumentar em uma mula (Equus caballus x equus asinus) em área endêmica no Estado do Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Aguilar Cruz Manuel , Rangel Elizabeth F.
Published: July 2009

É relatado o encontro de infecção por parasitos do gênero Leishmania, em lesão cutânea de uma mula (Equus caballus x Equus asinus) procedente de uma localidade endêmica de leishmaniose tegumentar, no Estado do Rio de Janeiro.
Dermatophagoides Deanei sp.n., nova espécie de acaro piroglifídeo encontrada no Brasil, em poeira domiciliar
Authors: Galvão Archibaldo Bello , Guitton Neide
Published: July 2009

Uma nova espécie de ácaro, Dermatophagoides deanei, foi encontrada em amostras de poeira omiciliar de várias capitais do Brasil.
Physa cubensis Pfeiffer, 1839 (Pulmonata: Physidae)
Authors: Paraense W. Lobato
Published: July 2009

A description of Physa cubensis Pfeiffer, 1839, based on 15 speciments collected in Havana, Cuba, is presented. The shell, measuring 9.0 x 4,8mm to 12.3 x 6.4mm, is ovate-oblong, thin, diaphanous, horncolored, shining. Spire elevated, broadly conical; protoconch distinct, roundish, reddish-brown. About five moderately shouldered, roundly convex whorls, penultimate whorl expanded; spiral striation subobsolete; growth line faint on the intermediate whorls, clearly visible on the body whorl, crowded here and there. Suture well impressed. Aperture elongated 2.05 - 2.67 (mean 2.27) times as long as the remaining length of the shell, narrow obovulate-lunate; upper half acute-angled, lower half oval, narrowly rounded at the base; outer lip sharp, inner lip completely closing the umbilical region; a thick callus on the parietal wall; columellar plait well marked. Ratios: shell width/shell length - 0.52-0.61 (mean 0.55); spire length/shell length = 0.27 - 0.33 (mean 0.31); aperture length/shell length = 0.67 - 0.73 (mean 0.69). Oral lappets laterally mucronate; foot spatulate with acuminate tail. Mantle relection with 6 - 8 short triangular dentations in the right lobe (columellar side) and 4 - 6 in the left lobe (near the pneumostome). Renal tube tightly folded into a zigzag course. Ovotestis, ovispermiduct, seminal vesicle, oviduct, nidamental gland, uterus and vagina as in Physa marmorata (see Paraense, 1986, Mem. Inst. Oswaldo Cruz, 81: 459-469). Spermathecal body egg-shaped or pear-shaped; spermathecal ducta uniformly narrow with expanded base, a little longer than the body. Spermiduct, prostate and vas deferens as in P. marmorata (Paraense, loc. cit.). Penis wide proximally, narrowing gradually apicad; penial canal with subterminal outlet. Penial sheath following the width of the penis and ending up by a bulbous expansion somewhat narrower than the proximal portion. Penaial sheath/prepuce ration = 1,25 - 1,83 (mean 1.49). Prepuce much wider than the bulb of the penial shealth, moderately shouldered owing to the intromission of the bulb, and with a large gland in one side of its proximal half occupating about a third of its length. Extrinsic muscles of the penial complex as in P. marmorata. Jaw a simple obtusely V-shaped plate. Radula to be described separetely.
Studies in search of a suitable experimental insect model for xenodiagnosis of hosts with Chagas' disease: 2 - Attempts to upgrade the reliability and the efficacy of xenodiagnosis in chronic Chagas' disease
Authors: Szumlewicz Alina Perlowagora , Muller Carlos Alberto
Published: July 2009

In order to upgrade the reliability of xenodiagnosis, attention has been directed towards population dynamics of the parasite, with particular interest for the following factors: 1. Parasite density which by itself is not a research objective, but by giving an accurate portrayal of parasite development and multiplication, has been incorporated in screening of bugs for xenodiagnosis. 2. On the assumption that food availability might increase parasite density, bugs from xenodiagnosis have been refed at biweekly intervals on chicken blood. 3. Infectivity rates and positives harbouring large parasite yields were based on gut infections, in which the parasite population comprised of all developmental forms was more abundant and easier to detect than in fecal infections, thus minimizing the probability of recording false negatives. 4. Since parasite density, low in the first 15 days of infection, increases rapidly in the following 30 days, the interval of 45 days has been adopted for routine examination of bugs from xenodiagnosis. By following the enumerated measures, all aiming to reduce false negative cases, we are getting closer to a reliable xenodiagnostic procedure. Upgrading the efficacy of xenodiagnosis is also dependent on the xenodiagnostic agent. Of 9 investigated vector species, Panstrongylus megistus deserves top priority as a xenodiagnostic agent. Its extraordinary capability to support fast development and vigorous multiplication of the few parasites, ingested from the host with chronic Chagas' disease, has been revealed by the strikingly close infectivity rates of 91.2% vs. 96.4% among bugs engorged from the same host in the chronic and acute phase of the disease respectively (Table V), the latter comporting an estimated number of 12.3 x 10[raised to the power of 3] parasites in the circulation at the time of xenodiagnosis, as reported previously by the authors (1982).
Atividade moluscicida do extrato butílico de Phytolaca dodecandra (Endod) sobre Biomphalaria glabrata
Authors: Souza Cecília Pereira de , Mendes Nelimar Martinelli , Araújo Neusa , Katz Naftale
Published: July 2009

O extrato butílico da Phytolacca dodecandra (tipo 44) obtido de frutos procedentes da Etiópia, foi testado como moluscicida em nosso laboratório e no campo. As concentrações letais, CL90, com 24 horas de exposição, para Biomphalaria glabrata adulta, recém-eclodidas e desovadas foram de 4,5, 23,0 e 102,0 ppm, respectivamente. Para peixes, Lebistes reticulatus, a CL90 foi de 2,0 ppm. Esses resultados foram semelhantes aos obtidos por Lemma em 1984, na Etiópia. Em dois criadouros com água parada, tratados com 10ppm de estrato butílico e 3ppm de niclosamida, ocorreu 84,0 e 100,0% de mortalidade B. glabrata, respectivamente. Os dois produtos foram tóxicos para peixes (L. reticulatus) no campo. É discutida a possibilidade do uso de moluscidas de origem vegetal, como alternativa para o combate a focos de esquistossomose no Brasil.
Coleformes fecais em águas de esgoto: II- transferência de marcadores e presença de plasmidial
Authors: Vicente Ana Carolina Paulo , Dias José Cavalcante de Albuquerque Ribeiro , Hofer Ernesto
Published: July 2009

Investigou-se a transferência de marcadores genéticos e a presença de DNA plasmidial em 240 culturas de Escherichia coli originárias de água de esgoto (afluente e fluentes) da Estação de Tratamento da Ilha do Governador, na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, RJ. Experimentos de conjugação com E. coli K 12 permitiram o isolamento de transconjugantes com resistência a antibióticos (Su, Sm, Tc, Cm e Ap); a metais pesados (Cu, Hg e Zn) e fatores colicinogênicos (Col Ia, Ib e V) principalmente para os coliformes isolados nos setores terminais da estação de tratamento. A distribuição de plasmídeos foi prevalente nas culturas de E. coli advindas dos efluentes, com percentuais superiores a 65.
Biological aspects of the DM28C clone of Trypanosoma cruzi after metacylogenesis in chemically defined media
Authors: Contreras Victor T. , Araújo-Jorge Tania C. de , Bonaldo Myrna C. , Thomaz Neide , Barbosa Helena S. , Meirelles Maria de Nazareth S. L. de , Goldenberg Samuel
Published: July 2009

The biological characterization of the Trypanosoma cruzi clone Dm 28c in terms of its growth in LIT medium, cell-cycle, infectivity to mice and interaction with professional and non-professional phagocytic cells shows that it behaves as a bona fide T. cruzi representant. The biological properties of this myotropic clone do not change according to the origin of the trypomastigote forms (i. e., from triatomines, infected mice, cell-culture or from the chemically defined TAUP and TAU3AAG media). In addition Dm 28c metacyclic trypomastigotes from TAU3AAG medium display a high infectivity level to fibroblasts and muscle cells. Experiments on binding of cationized ferritin to trypomastigotes surface show the existence of cap-like structures of ferritin in regions near the kinetoplast. However the nature and role of these anionic sites remain to be determined. The results indicate that metacyclic trypomastigotes from Dm 28c clone obtained under chemically defined conditions reproduce the biological behaviour of T. cruzi, rendering this system very suitable for the study of cell-parasite interactions and for the isolation of trypanosome relevant macromolecules.
Jatobal virus antigenic characterization by ELISA and neutralization test using EIA as indicator, on tissue culture
Authors: Figueiredo Luiz Tadeu M. , Rosa Amélia P. A. Travassos da
Published: July 2009

A virus antigenic characterization methodology using an indirect method of antibody detection ELISA with virus-infected cultured cells as antigen and a micro virus neutralisation test using EIA (NT-EIA) as an aid to reading were used for antigenic characterization of Jatobal (BeAn 423380). Jatobal virus was characterized as a Bunyaviridae, Bunyavirus genus, Simbu serogroup virus. ELISA using infected cultured cells as antigen is a sensitive and reliable method for identification of viruses and has many advantages over conventional antibody capture ELISA's and other tests: it eliminates solid phase coating with virus and laborious antigen preparation; it permits screening of large numbers of virus antisera faster and more easily than by CF, HAI, or plaque reduction NT. ELISA and NT using EIA as an aid to reading can be applicable to viruses which do not produce cytopathogenic effect. Both techniques are applicable to identification of viruses which grow in mosquito cells.
Caracterização biológica de clones das cepas Y, CL e MR de Trypanosoma cruzi em camundongos C3H isogênicos
Authors: Araújo S. Marques de , Chiari E.
Published: July 2009

Dez clones isolados das cepas Y, CL e MR foram caracterizados segundo infectividade das culturas, curvas de parasitemia, polimorfismo e mortalidade em camundongos C3H isogênicos. Entra os clones das cepas Y e CL foram encontradas diferenças intragrupos bastante significativas. Os clones da cepa MR apresentaram maior homogeneidade. Estes resultados indicam que as cepas do T. cruzi podem apresentar diferentes graus de heterogeneidade. Também sugerem que as condições utilizadas para a manutenção de cepas de T. cruzi podem resultar em vantagens seletivas para algumas subpopulações, podendo uma cepa ser o resultado da interação destas subpopulações (clones) selecionadas após alguns anos de manutenção em laboratório.
Scanning electron microscopy of the egg and the first instar larva of Dermatobia hominis (Diptera, cuterebridae)
Authors: Leite Antonio Cesar Rios
Published: July 2009

The egg and the first instar larva of Dermatobia hominis were described based on observation with a scanning electron microscope.
Effect of cAMP on macromolecule synthesis in the pathogenic protozoa Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Santos Dilvani O. , Oliveira Mécia M.
Published: July 2009

Macromolecule synthesis of Trypanosoma cruzi in culture was monitored using radioactive tracers. Cells of different days in culture displayed a preferential incorporation of precursors as follows: 1 day for (³H)-thymidine cells; 3 days for (³H)-uridine cells, and 4 days for (³H)-leucine cells. Autoradiographic studies showed that (³H)-thymidine was incorporated in the DNA of both kinetoplast and nucleus in this order. Shifts in the intracellular content of cAMP either by addition of dibutyryl-cAMP or by stimulation of the adenylcyclase by isoproterenol, caused an inhibition in the synthesis of DNA, RNA and proteins. Addition to the T. cruzi cultures of these agents which elevate the intracellular content ofcAMP provoked an interruption of cell proliferation as a result of the impairment of macromolecule synthesis. A discrimination was observed among the stereoisomers of isoproterenol, the L configuration showing to be most active.
Biosyslematics and distribution of Simuliid vectors of human onchocerciasis in South America
Authors: Shelley A. J.
Published: July 2009

A brief review is given of the taxonomic status, biology and medical importance, and distribution of the vectors of human onchocerciasis in Latin America. Key reference works are cited and distribution maps of each vector species in relation to the known onchocerciasis foci are given.
Identificação de resistência genética do cacaueiro à podridão-parda
Authors: Santos Elisa Susilene Lisboa dos , Cerqueira-Silva Carlos Bernard Moreno , Clement Didier Pierre Louis , Luz Edna Dora Martins Newman
Published: July 2009

O objetivo deste trabalho foi comparar métodos de caracterização da resistência do cacaueiro (Theobroma cacao) à podridão-parda (Phytophthora palmivora). Foram estudados os métodos escala de notas, índice de intensidade de infecção e índice de doença. Discos foliares de 103 genótipos receberam 0,2 mL de uma suspensão com 3x10(5) zoósporos de P. palmivora por mililitro, e os sintomas foram avaliados pelos três métodos. Foram realizadas três avaliações (repetições) por genótipo, cada uma composta por 20 discos. O método do índice de doença foi o mais eficiente em caracterizar a resistência de genótipos de cacaueiro a P. palmivora.
O paratudal do Pantanal de Miranda, Corumbá-MS, Brasil
Authors: Soares João Juares , Oliveira Ademir Kleber Morbeck de
Published: July 2009

Este trabalho teve como objetivo estudar o estrato arbóreo de uma formação savanoide típica do Pantanal de Miranda, o paratudal, no Município de Corumbá, MS. O estrato herbáceo da formação é dominado por Paspalum hydrophilum e o estrato arbóreo, Tabebuia áurea. O paratudo, razão do nome, apresenta densidade média de 363 indivíduos por hectare, altura média de 6,7 m e diâmetro médio do caule de 16,7 cm. O paratudal de algumas regiões do Pantanal de Miranda poderia ser o resultado do solo (fator edáfico), da inundação (fator hidrométrico) e, ou, da ação antrópica, além de, em alguns casos, da associação com artrópodes que formam montículos - murundus -, nos quais T. aurea pode se estabelecer. Essa espécie deve apresentar mecanismos fisiológicos que lhe permitem sobreviver com níveis altos de cálcio e magnésio, enfrentar meses de seca e inundação (estresse hídrico) e mudanças no pH do solo.
Estudo comparativo de modelos computacionais gerados sobre representações de imagens de coloscopia: tecido de mucosa normal VS tecido de mucosa de pólipo cólico
Authors: Ferrero Carlos Andres , Lee Huei Diana , Spolaôr Newton , Coy Cláudio Saddy Rodrigues , Fagundes João José , Machado Renato Bobsin , Cherman Everton Alvares , Wu Feng Chung
Published: July 2009

OBJETIVO: analisar a qualidade preditiva de modelos computacionais para a diferenciação de tecidos cólicos, construídos a partir da representação de Imagens de Coloscopia (IC) como Matrizes de Co-ocorrência (MC). MATERIAIS E MÉTODOS: os modelos foram construídos aplicando técnicas de análise de imagens e de inteligência artificial. Foram utilizadas 67 IC, contendo pólipos, a partir das quais foram extraídas uma imagem da parte de tecido de pólipo e outra de tecido sem pólipo adjacente, totalizando 134 imagens. Para cada imagem, foram construídas MC para diferentes valores do parâmetro distância, D = 1 a 5, e extraídas 11 características de textura. Com essa representação, foram criados cinco modelos computacionais baseados em árvores de decisão. Os modelos foram avaliados utilizando: (a) validação cruzada e (b) tabelas de contingência. RESULTADOS: na análise (a), o modelo de D = 3 apresentou o menor erro médio (22,25% ± 11,85%). Na análise (b), os modelos de D = 1 e 3 apresentaram os melhores valores de precisão. CONCLUSÃO: os valores do parâmetro de distância D = 1 e 3 apresentaram os modelos com as melhores qualidades preditivas. Os resultados mostraram que os modelos construídos apresentaram-se promissores para a construção de sistemas computacionais de suporte à decisão.
Cirurgias proctológicas em 3 anos de serviço de coloproctologia: série histórica
Authors: Prudente Ana Carolina Lisboa , Torres Neto Juvenal da Rocha , Santiago Rodrigo Rocha , Mariano Dam Rodrigues , Vieira Filho Mário Costa
Published: July 2009

Em 2007, 72,5% do movimento cirúrgico do Serviço de Coloproctologia do HU/UFS foi de procedimentos proctológicos. A experiência desse Serviço, em 3 anos, foi compilada e analisada retrospectivamente. Foram 455 pacientes submetidos a hemorroidectomias(40%), fistulectomias (20%) e fissurectomias (13%), sendo os demais, cisto pilonidal, fístula retovaginal, etc. As doenças orificiais prevaleceram em mulheres (54%) e na faixa etária dos 30 a 50 anos. Hemorróidas e fissuras acometeram mais mulheres, enquanto as fístulas, homens. Hemorroidectomia a Milligan e Morgan foi realizada em 53,7% dos casos, com níveis de dor e sangramento comparáveis aos de Ferguson. Ela proporcionou maior número de fissuras residuais e incontinência fecal transitória. Estenose foi igual para as duas técnicas.A técnica de Ferguson tem o tempo de cicatrização inferior, mesmo com elevada taxa de deiscência. A fístula acometeu 4 vezes mais homens. Em 65% dos casos, a fistulectomia foi a técnica de escolha, com melhores resultados em termos de dor e sangramento, e piores índices de incontinência. Houve colocação de sedenho em 14% dos casos, mantidos em média por 20 semanas, e após sua retirada, 36% relataram sinais de incontinência minor. A fissura anal demonstrou uma preferência de cerca de 3 vezes maior pela comissura posterior. As fissuras anteriores ocorreram mais em homens.
Anatomical and physiological modifications of micropropagated 'Caipira' banana plants under natural lighy
Authors: Costa Frederico Henrique da Silva , Pasqual Moacir , Pereira Jonny Everson Scherwinski , Castro Evaristo Mauro de
Published: July 2009

Research about the use of natural light associated to changes in sucrose levels demonstrated potential in promoting in vitro hardiness of tropical climate species, as well as reducing production costs. However, little is known about physiological and structural changes that happen in the process. This study evaluated the physiological and anatomic performance, and ex vitro survival of micropropagated banana plants in response to cultivation conditions, in the stage of in vitro rooting. Shoots of the 'Caipira' cultivar were cultivated in MS medium, supplemented with 1 mg L-1 NAA and 6 g L-1 agar, in which the following treatments were applied: two sucrose concentrations (15 g L-1 or 30 g L-1) and two cultivation conditions (Natural light - greenhouse and Artificial light - growth chamber). At the end of 45 days, the contents of chlorophyll a, b and total, the relative water content in the tissues, anatomic characteristics and the ex vitro survival were evaluated. Effects of growth environment and sucrose concentration were observed on micropropagated 'Caipira' banana anatomy, physiology and survival. In vitro rooting of the shoots under natural light in the medium containing 15 g L-1 or 30 g L-1 sucrose promoted major alteration in the increase of palisade and spongy parenchyma, as well as reducing leaf water loss and plant death. The results obtained in the present study confirm the potential of the use of natural light as a substitute for artificial light for micropropagation of tropical species.
Entre o funcional e o lúdico: a camisinha nas campanhas de prevenção da aids
Authors: Marinho Mônica Benfica
Published: July 2009

Este trabalho parte da idéia da existência de impedimentos ao uso da camisinha. Abordou-se alguns desses impedimentos que são as significações marginais como a infidelidade e a promiscuidade que a camisinha encarna. Essas significações marginais foram analisadas em relação a um modelo de comportamento que rege a prática sexual e a reprodução humana - a monogamia. Enfatizou-se que as campanhas, que têm como tema o estímulo ao uso da camisinha, podem alcançar uma maior eficácia ao diluírem a imagem "negativa" emanada dessas significações, associando, por exemplo, a camisinha a prazer e segurança, por meio de spots lúdicos e descontraídos