bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rac regulates PtdInsP3 signaling and the chemotactic compass through a redox-mediated feedback loop
Authors: Kuiper Jan W. P. , Sun Chunxiang , Magalhães Marco A. O. , Glogauer Michael
Published: October 2011

Directional cell migration is an essential requirement for efficient neutrophil translocation to sites of infection and requires the establishment of a polarized cell characterized by an actin-rich leading edge facing the chemoattractant gradient. The asymmetrical accumulation of phosphatidylinositol(3,4,5)-trisphosphate [PtdIns(3,4,5)P3] in the up-gradient leading edge is a hallmark of polarization and regulates the recruitment and localization of various effector proteins at the leading-edge plasma membrane. How shallow gradients of chemoattractants trigger and maintain a much steeper intracellular gradient of PtdIns(3,4,5)P3 is a critical question in the study of leukocyte chemotaxis. Our data demonstrate that the migration of neutrophils toward the chemoattractant N-formyl–L-methionyl–L-leucyl–L-phenylalanine depends on the generation of reactive oxygen species by the phagocytic NADPH oxidase (NOX2) and subsequent oxidation and inhibition of phosphatase and tensin homolog. Moreover, we show that events downstream of PtdIns(3,4,5)P3, including phosphorylation of AKT, Rac activation, uncapping of actin filaments, and directional migration, can be attenuated by ROS scavengers or genetic ablation of NOX2. Using Rac mutants that are defective in their ability to activate NOX2, we show that Rac regulates a redox-mediated feedback loop that mediates directional migration of neutrophils.
Alimentary fluoride intake in preschool children
Authors: Oganessian Edgar , Ivancakova Romana , Lencova Erika , Broukal Zdenek
Published: October 2011

Background

The knowledge of background alimentary fluoride intake in preschool children is of utmost importance for introducing optimal and safe caries preventive measures for both individuals and communities. The aim of this study was to assess the daily fluoride intake analyzing duplicate samples of food and beverages. An attempt was made to calculate the daily intake of fluoride from food and swallowed toothpaste.

Methods

Daily alimentary fluoride intake was measured in a group of 36 children with an average age of 4.75 years and an average weight of 20.69 kg at baseline, by means of a double plate method. This was repeated after six months. Parents recorded their child's diet over 24 hours and collected duplicated portions of food and beverages received by children during this period. Pooled samples of food and beverages were weighed and solid food samples were homogenized. Fluoride was quantitatively extracted from solid food samples by a microdiffusion method using hexadecyldisiloxane and perchloric acid. The content of fluoride extracted from solid food samples, as well as fluoride in beverages, was measured potentiometrically by means of a fluoride ion selective electrode.

Results

Average daily fluoride intake at baseline was 0.389 (SD 0.054) mg per day. Six months later it was 0.378 (SD 0.084) mg per day which represents 0.020 (SD 0.010) and 0.018 (SD 0.008) mg of fluoride respectively calculated per kg bw/day.

When adding the values of unwanted fluoride intake from the toothpaste shown in the literature (0.17-1.21 mg per day) the estimate of the total daily intake of fluoride amounted to 0.554-1.594 mg/day and recalculated to the child's body weight to 0.027-0.077 mg/kg bw/day.

Conclusions

In the children studied, observed daily fluoride intake reached the threshold for safe fluoride intake. When adding the potential fluoride intake from swallowed toothpaste, alimentary intake reached the optimum range for daily fluoride intake. These results showed that in preschool children, when trying to maximize the benefit of fluoride in caries prevention and to minimize its risk, caution should be exercised when giving advice on the fluoride containing components of child's diet or prescribing fluoride supplements.
Highlight: The Winter School on Proteinases and Their Inhibitors
Authors: Sommerhoff Christian P. , Fritz Hans
Published: October 2011

No abstract available
Elastase-induced pulmonary emphysema: insights from experimental models
Authors: Antunes Mariana A. , Rocco Patricia R.M.
Published: October 2011

Several distinct stimuli can be used to reproduce histological and functional features of human emphysema, a leading cause of disability and death. Since cigarette smoke is the main cause of emphysema in humans, experimental researches have attempted to reproduce this situation. However, this is an expensive and cumbersome method of emphysema induction, and simpler, more efficacious alternatives have been sought. Among these approaches, elastolytic enzymes have been widely used to reproduce some characteristics of human cigarette smoke-induced disease, such as: augmentation of airspaces, inflammatory cell influx into the lungs, and systemic inflammation. Nevertheless, the use of elastase-induced emphysema models is still controversial, since the disease pathways involved in elastase induction may differ from those occurring in smoke-induced emphysema. This indicates that the choice of an emphysema model may impact the results of new therapies or drugs being tested. The aim of this review is to compare the mechanisms of disease induction in smoke and elastase emphysema models, to describe the differences among various elastase models, and to establish the advantages and disadvantages of elastase-induced emphysema models. More studies are required to shed light on the mechanisms of elastase-induced emphysema.
Linfossarcoma em bovinos no Agreste Meridional de Pernambuco
Authors: Silva Filho Alonso P. , Afonso José Augusto B. , Souza José Cláudio de A. , Riet-Correa Franklin , Dantas Antônio F. , Dantas Alexandre C. , Costa Nivaldo de A. , Mendonça Carla L.
Published: October 2011

Neste trabalho são descritos os sinais clínicos, patologia clínica e patologia de 24 bovinos com leucose bovina enzoótica atendidos na Clínica de Bovinos de Garanhuns da Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco. Esses casos representaram 0,5% de 4.758 bovinos atendidos entre os anos de 2000 e 2010. A doença afetou 22 (91,7%) fêmeas e dois machos. Vinte e um animais (87,5%) eram de raças leiteras (seis Holandês, 13 Girolando, um Jersey e um Pardo Suíça) e três (12,5%) eram da raça Nelore. Vinte e três animais (95,8%) tinham idade entre 3 e 8 anos e um era mais jovem. Todos eram criados em regime de confinamento ou semi-confinamento. Clinicamente todos os animais apresentaram aumento dos linfonodos superficias. Outros sinais frequentes foram hiporexia, diminuição da produção de leite, emagrecimento progressivo, escore corporal baixo, desidratação, hipomotilidade dos pré-estômagos e fezes alteradas e em pouca quantidade. Com menor frequência foram observados exoftalmia, dispneia e aumento de volume do útero. No leucograma foi constatada leucocitose média de 34.082/µL, com linfocitose de 21.814/µL e neutrofilia de 10.906/µL. Treze animais foram necropsiados e os demais foram enviados pelos proprietários para o abate. Dos treze animais abatidos todos apresentaram lesões nos linfonodos superficiais, seis nos linfonodos mesentéricos, seis no intestino, três no abomaso, um no coração, um no fígado, um no rúmen, um no útero e um no rim. Diante da importância desta enfermidade e dos prejuízos causados pela mesma é necessário alertar produtores sobre os cuidados a serem tomados durante a aquisição de animais, assim como da necessidade de implantar medidas que evitem a difusão da doença entre as fazendas.
"Corporeality" in metaphor studies: why it is so easy to miss the point
Authors: Rajagopalan Kanavillil
Published: October 2011

It is argued that the notion of corporeality that is so much present in discussions about mind, language and the way metaphor functions in real life is best understood as first and foremost having to do with corpo-reality rather than corporeal-ity. This is a far more revolutionary idea than often seen to be and calls for a thorough revision of many of our well-entrenched dogmas. Not surprisingly, rearguard maneuvers designed to blunt its thrust are all too common in metaphor studies.
Metaphors in scientific and technical languages: challenges and perspective
Authors: Finatto Maria José Bocorny
Published: October 2011

This article aims to show, in a summarized way, how different studies on metaphor can positively converge to a cognitive-linguistic perception of this phenomenon. This perception surpasses a merely stylistic vision of the metaphor. The paper also reports the research that was done by Huang (2005) about metaphors in scientific texts of Medicine, which is related to the topic of AIDS. The results and difficulties of Huang's research have given examples in the treatment of the theme of metaphor in Terminology and in studies of scientific texts. It is concluded that metaphor is one of the phenomena that make part of the technical and scientific communication and, because of the complexity in approaching such topic, it must also be investigated in Terminology.
Psychological work in humanitarian emergencies in Haiti and Democratic Republic of Congo: some considerations based on two work experiences
Authors: Weintraub Ana Cecilia Andrade de Moraes
Published: October 2011

Through the description of two examples of psychological interventions in humanitarian emergencies, this article aims to problematize the work of the psychologist in those situations. The concepts of "humanitarianism" and "emergency" are discussed based on two interventions made in Haiti and in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In both countries the mental health interventions happened inside a humanitarian organization and the objective of those interventions was to offer psychosocial support to the population of concern through a national mental health team. Cultural specificities, as well as theoretical and methodological challenges to the work of the psychologist in those situations are presented, especially those related to moral issues, to gender-based conflicts and to the insertion of the psychological work in a context where there is very little institutional support. Considerations related to theories and techniques of the area are presented, emphasizing the importance of interpreting the contents of the discourses taking into account the culture from where each person comes.
Avaliação da dor em criocirurgia de ceratoses actínicas
Authors: Poziomczyk Claudia Schermann , Köche Bruna , Dornelles Marcel de Almeida , Dornelles Sérgio Ivan Torres
Published: October 2011

FUNDAMENTOS: a ceratose actínica é lesão pré-maligna frequente, que ocorre em áreas expostas à luz solar, em pessoas idosas ou adultas de meia-idade e pele clara. A criocirurgia com nitrogênio líquido é a modalidade mais comum para o tratamento de ceratoses actínicas. OBJETIVOS: o objetivo primário deste estudo foi medir a intensidade da dor durante a criocirurgia, por meio da Escala Visual Análoga. Também buscou-se identificar o nível de dor considerado adequado pelo paciente, avaliar a proporção de pacientes que consideram necessária a diminuição da dor sentida e verificar a necessidade ou não de analgesia suplementar. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal com pacientes encaminhados para terapêutica criocirúrgica de ceratoses actínicas no Ambulatório de Dermatologia Sanitária. Foram avaliados 112 pacientes, após tratamento de ceratoses actínicas, aplicando-se um questionário com perguntas sobre a intensidade da dor sentida durante o procedimento cirúrgico, assim como a dor considerada confortável ou adequada ao procedimento. RESULTADOS: participaram 48 homens (42,8%) e 64 mulheres (57,2%). A média da dor referida durante o procedimento cirúrgico, medida em milímetros na Escala Visual Análoga, foi de 32,85 mm; a média da dor considerada adequada pelos pacientes foi de 23,01 mm. A diferença entre as duas médias foi estatisticamente significativa (p<0,05). Em questionário objetivo e direto, a percentagem de pacientes que referiu ser necessária a diminuição da dor foi 30,4%. CONCLUSÕES: embora a dor considerada adequada seja menor estatisticamente do que a sentida, não alcança níveis suficientes para que seja atribuída a necessidade de método de analgesia suplementar neste tipo de intervenção
Síndrome de Sweet: estudo de 73 casos, com ênfase nos achados histopatológicos
Authors: Rochael Mayra Carrijo , Pantaleão Luciana , Vilar Enoï A. Guedes , Zacaron Luciana Helena , Spada Eduardo Quelhas , Xavier Marcus H. S. B , Rodrigues Karla Strong
Published: October 2011

FUNDAMENTOS: A síndrome de Sweet corresponde a um conjunto de alterações cutâneas, sistêmicas e histopatológicas como resposta a diversos estímulos, semelhantes ao eritema nodoso, ao eritema multiforme e à vasculite leucocitoclásica. São descritas condições associadas como infecção, gravidez, uso de drogas e malignidades. OBJETIVOS: Avaliar as alterações clínicas e histopatológicas da síndrome, relacionando-a a outras condições. MÉTODO: Estudo retrospectivo de 73 casos com avaliação microscópica de lesões cutâneas, dados clínicos e laboratoriais. RESULTADOS: Houve predomínio de mulheres (83,0%), brancas (49,2%), entre a quarta e a sexta décadas de vida (73,8%). Placas eritematosas (76,9%), pápulas (43,0%), pseudovesiculação (PV) (38,4%) e lesões em alvo (18,5%) foram as principais alterações. Entre as condições associadas, infecções de vias aéreas (15,4%) e uso de drogas (10,8%) foram as mais frequentes. Outras associações, representadas por um caso cada, foram: linfoma de Hodgkin, gravidez, colite ulcerativa, policitemia vera e lúpus eritematoso em paciente com Aids. Neutrófilos com leucocitoclasia (98,6%), degeneração do colágeno (87,7%), edema (74,0%) e PV (38,4%) foram os principais achados microscópicos. Eosinófilos estiveram presentes (41,1%) de raros a abundantes e, em geral, não relacionados ao uso de drogas. O infiltrado inflamatório atingiu a derme profunda em 47,9% das vezes e encontrou-se paniculite em 80,0% dos casos nos quais a hipoderme estava representada (10 casos). CONCLUSÕES: Os achados, de modo geral, coincidem com os da literatura, destacando-se: frequente participação de eosinófilos sem correlação com a ingestão de medicamentos, paniculite e rara associação com linfoma de Hodgkin, sendo este o quinto relato de tal ocorrência, segundo o conhecimento dos autores.
Espectrocolorimetria de variedades de caulim da Jazida Ipixuna, no Estado do Pará
Authors: Sabedot Sydney , Petter Carlos Otávio , Sampaio Carlos Hoffmann
Published: October 2011

Variedades de minério de caulim amostradas em uma jazida sedimentar no Estado do Pará foram beneficiadas em planta-piloto para estudos de espectrocolorimetria que possibilitassem a criação de uma ferramenta de apoio operacional à lavra e ao beneficiamento. Jazidas como esta contêm blocos com variações texturais e mineralógicas, as quais definem os blocos de minério com potencial para beneficiamento. A tomada de decisão depende, inicialmente, da análise subjetiva da cor do minério: blocos com cores avermelhadas são impróprios; com cores esbranquiçadas são apropriados. A cor do minério depende da paragênese mineral contaminante. Quinze amostras representativas de cinco tipos de caulins mais comuns na jazida, definidos visualmente pela cor do minério, foram analisadas sob distintos parâmetros. As curvas de reflectância do produto desareado das amostras definiram sete grupos espectrocolorimétricos, sendo quatro próprios para gerarem uma matéria-prima final com qualidade para o mercado. Esse estudo apresenta as análises e os resultados para cada grupo e o que eles representam como ferramenta de suporte à lavra e ao beneficiamento. Também apresenta algumas considerações quanto à blendagem entre os grupos de caulim.
Tabagismo passivo no Brasil: resultados da Pesquisa Especial Do Tabagismo, 2008
Authors: Passos Valéria Maria de Azeredo , Giatti Luana , Barreto Sandhi Maria
Published: October 2011

O objetivo foi descrever prevalência e características sócio-demográficas associadas ao tabagismo passivo no domicílio e no trabalho, em participantes (15+ anos) de amostra populacional da Pesquisa Especial do Tabagismo, sub-amostra da PNAD 2008. O tabagismo passivo é definido como a exposição ao tabaco por não-fumante, em casa, no trabalho ou em outros locais fechados, excluídas ocupações ao ar livre. Associações com características sócio-demográficas foram estimadas por análise de regressão logística. Nos 25.005 não-fumantes, a exposição domiciliar é diária para 12,5% e ocasional para 21%. À regressão multinomial (referência: não-expostos), a exposição diária diminui com aumento de idade e tanto a exposição diária como a ocasional diminuem com maiores escolaridade e renda. Comparada à Região Sudeste, há menor exposição diária no Norte e no Centro-Oeste, e maior ocasional no Nordeste. Dos 10.933 trabalhadores, 55% dos homens e 45% das mulheres relataram exposição no trabalho e 67% exposição domiciliar adicional. A exposição no trabalho é maior em homens, nos mais velhos (55+anos) e com menor escolaridade e renda; e menor no Sul. A desigualdade social no Brasil se revela também na maior exposição ao tabagismo passivo daqueles com menor escolaridade e renda.
Análise das ocorrências das lesões no trânsito e fatores relacionados segundo resultados da Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios (PNAD) Brasil, 2008
Authors: Malta Deborah Carvalho , Mascarenhas Márcio Dênis Medeiros , Bernal Regina Tomie Ivata , Silva Marta Maria Alves da , Pereira Cimar Azeredo , Minayo Maria Cecília de Souza , Morais Neto Otaliba Libânio de
Published: October 2011

O objetivo foi descrever as estimativas de ocorrência de lesões decorrentes do trânsito e os fatores relacionados à população brasileira a partir dos dados obtidos na Pesquisa Nacional por Amostra de Domicílios (PNAD). Trata-se de amostra probabilística em três estágios: municípios, setores censitários e domicílios. Foram entrevistadas 391.868 pessoas. As variáveis acidente de trânsito (AT) e uso de cinto de segurança foram descritas segundo dados sociodemográficos e de região de residência. Calcularam-se as proporções, intervalos de confiança de 95%, teste c2 e valor de p. 2,5% (IC95% 2,4-2,6) da população relataram a ocorrência de AT, com maior acometimento da população masculina (3,5%; IC95%: 3,4-3,6), jovens (4,4%; IC95%: 4,2-4,6) e residentes da região Centro-Oeste (3,3%; IC95%: 3,0-3,6). Os AT predominaram entre condutores ou ocupantes de automóveis/vans (53,9%) e de motocicletas (30,1%), seguidos de ciclistas (7,6%) e pedestres (5,2%). O uso de cinto de segurança dianteiro foi relatado por 73,2% (IC95%: 72,2-74,2) e o cinto traseiro por 37,4% (IC95% 36.6-38,2). O AT determinou o afastamento das atividades habituais em 30,7% dos acometidos. A magnitude das lesões no trânsito justifica avançar em medidas preventivas e legislativas para a redução dos eventos.
Representações de profissionais da saúde sobre famílias de crianças e adolescentes vítimas de violência
Authors: Sauret Gerard Viader , Carneiro Rosa Maria , Valongueiro Sandra , Vasconcelos Maria Gorete Lucena de
Published: October 2011

OBJETIVOS: analisar as representações de profissionais da saúde sobre famílias de crianças e adolescentes vítimas de violência, atendidas em um serviço de referência da rede pública de saúde do Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil. MÉTODOS: foram aplicadas dez entrevistas semiestruturadas a psicólogos, trabalhadores e educadores sociais. Também foi realizada observação participante de forma suplementar às entrevistas. O material foi submetido à técnica de análise de conteúdo, modalidade temática. RESULTADOS: os profissionais reconheceram a necessidade de trabalhar o grupo familiar nas diversas formas de intervenção, destacando o sofrimento inicial das famílias provocado pelo fato de terem que aceitar uma intromissão do poder público. Observou-se certa polarização nas representações sobre famílias com dinâmica de violência sexual com relação às outras formas de violência. Destaca-se a utilização da categoria "evasão" para denominar a desistência das famílias ao tratamento oferecido, bem como a representação de "famílias irresponsáveis" entre aquelas que não conseguem concluir o tratamento. CONCLUSÕES: alerta-se sobre o risco dos profissionais estereotiparem como "descompromissadas" aquelas famílias que desistem do tratamento, quando podem ocorrer situações de dificuldade de compatibilização dos horários de trabalho com os de assistência ao serviço. Este problema pode ser especialmente sério em lares chefiados por mulheres. Detectaram-se também ruídos no tocante à articulação com conselheiros tutelares, dificultando o sucesso das intervenções.
Two Major Resistance Quantitative Trait Loci are Required to Counteract the Increased Susceptibility to Fusarium Head Blight of the Rht‐D1b Dwarfing Gene in Wheat
Authors: Lu Qiongxian , Szabo‐Hever Agnes , Bjørnstad Åsmund , Lillemo Morten , Semagn Kassa , Mesterhazy Akos , Ji Fang , Shi Jianrong , Skinnes Helge
Published: October 2011

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a destructive wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) disease of global importance. The widely used dwarfing allele Rht‐D1b has recently been shown to compromise FHB resistance. The objectives of this study were to investigate the impact of this dwarfing allele in a segregating population with major resistance quantitative trait loci (QTL) derived from ‘Sumai‐3’ and Nobeokabozu, and to determine how many resistance QTL are needed to counteract its negative effect. Fusarium head blight resistance was evaluated in four field trials with spray inoculation and two field trials with point inoculation in a double‐haploid (DH) population from a cross between the Swedish cv. Avle (susceptible spring type; wild‐type allele Rht‐D1a) and Line 685 (resistant winter type; semi‐dwarf allele Rht‐D1b). The Rht‐D1 locus explained up to 38% of the phenotypic variation and was the most important QTL for FHB severity under spray inoculation but did not show any effect after point inoculation. Fhb1 on 3BS was detected with both inoculation methods but was relatively more important after point inoculation. Another two QTL on 5A and 2BL were detected after spray inoculation and a QTL on 2D after point inoculation. Comparison of phenotypic effects of different allele combinations revealed that a combination of both Fhb1 and the 5A QTL was required to counteract the increased susceptibility of Rht‐D1b. Although breeding of FHB resistant cultivars with this dwarfing allele is possible, it requires the pyramiding of several resistant QTL to achieve adequate levels of resistance.
Statistical Techniques for Defining Reference Sets of Accessions and Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Odong T. L. , van Heerwaarden J. , Jansen J. , van Hintum T. J. L. , van Eeuwijk F. A.
Published: October 2011

Exploitation of the available genetic resources around the world requires information about the relationships and genetic diversity present among genebank collections. These relations can be established by defining for each crop a small but informative set of accessions, together with a small set of reliable molecular markers, that can be used as reference material. In this study, various strategies to arrive at small but informative reference sets are discussed. For selection of accessions, we proposed genetic distance optimization (GDOpt) method, which selects a subset of accessions that optimally represent the accessions not included in the core collection. The performance of GDOpt was compared with Core Hunter, an advanced stochastic local search algorithm for selecting core subsets. For the selection of molecular markers, we evaluated (i) the backward elimination (BE) method and (ii) methods based on principal component analysis (PCA). We examined the performance of the proposed methodologies using five real datasets. Relative to average distance between an accession and the nearest selected accession (representativeness), GDOpt outperformed Core Hunter. However, Core Hunter outperformed GDOpt with respect to allelic richness. The BE performed much better than other methods in selecting subsets of markers. Methods based on PCA showed that, for practical purposes, the inclusion of the first few (two or three) principal components (PCs) was often sufficient. To obtain robust and high‐quality reference sets of accessions and markers we advise a combination of GDOpt (for accessions) and BE or methods based on PCA using a few PCs (for subsets of markers).
Position Statement on Crop Adaptation to Climate Change
Authors: Boote Kenneth J. , Ibrahim Amir M. H. , Lafitte Renee , McCulley Rebecca , Messina Carlos , Murray Seth C. , Specht James E. , Taylor Sterling , Westgate Mark E. , Glasener Karl , Bijl Caron Gala , Giese James H.
Published: October 2011

The Crop Science Society of America's (CSSA) position statement—Crop Adaptation to Climate Change—was researched and assembled by a working group of scientists from academia and industry. The statement (i) reviews the impacts of variable weather conditions arising from climate change on cropping systems, (ii) reports the progress to date in adapting crops and management practices to new conditions, and (iii) offers focus areas for increasing the speed at which global agricultural systems can adapt to climate change.
Environmental Impact Assessment of Biogas Stations in the Czech Republic
Authors: Lapčík Vladimír , Lapčíková Marta
Published: October 2011

Environmental Impact Assessment of Biogas Stations in the Czech Republic

The article summarizes the authors' experience with environmental impact assessment in the branch of biogas plants. The introductory part of the paper describes the legislative obligations of the Czech Republic concerning the fulfilment of the European Union's limits as for the utilization of renewable energy resources. The next parts of the paper deal with an impact analysis of biogas plants on the environment. The final part of the paper deals with the experience concerning the implementation of the environmental impact assessment process in the field of biogas plants in the Czech Republic.
Analysis of Czech Organizations Participation in FP7 Surface Transport Projects and Transport Horizontal Activities in Years 2007 - 2009
Authors: Škarka Martin
Published: October 2011

Analýza zapojení českých řešitelů v prioritě Doprava 7. RP v letech 2007 - 2009 - pozemní doprava a horizontální aktivity

Cílem tohoto článku je analyzovat zapojení českých řešitelů do výzkumných a dalších projektů v prioritě Doprava, která je součástí programové části Spolupráce 7. RP. Zpracovaná analýza se zabývá pouze povrchovou dopravou a průřezovými aktivitami. Příspěvek hodnotí výsledky výzev 7. RP, které měly uzávěrky v letech 2007 a 2008. Porovnává parametry účasti českých řešitelů s celoevropským průměrem a hodnotí účast ČR i podle dalších ukazatelů. Posuzuje zapojení českých řešitelů z hlediska počtů projektů, řešitelů, finančního příspěvku EK, zaměření na koordinátory z určitých zemí a na určitá témata.
Alcohol-Related Cognitive Impairment in New South Wales Hospital Patients Aged 50 Years and Over
Authors: Draper Brian , Karmel Rosemary , Gibson Diane , Peut Ann , Anderson Phil
Published: October 2011

Objectives: The aim of this study was to describe the principal reasons for admission, medical comorbidities, interventions and outcomes of patients admitted to New South Wales hospitals with alcohol-related cognitive impairment.

Methods: We extracted data from the NSW Admitted Patient Care Database for nearly 410 000 multi-day hospital admissions from 222 public hospitals ending between July 2006 and June 2007 for people aged 50 and over. Data linkage using a unique patient identifier, derived by the Centre for Health Record Linkage identified hospital transfers and readmissions for individual patients. Using ICD10-AM codes, we identified patients with alcohol-related dementia, amnesic syndrome due to alcohol, and Wernicke's encephalopathy, their principal reasons for admission and medical comorbidities, and procedures undertaken. Outcomes were length of stay, mortality, discharge destination, and readmission.

Results: A total of 462 patients diagnosed with alcohol-related dementia (n = 300; 82% male, mean age 63.9 years), Wernicke's encephalopathy (n = 77) or amnesic syndrome due to alcohol (n = 126) were identified with overlap between diagnoses. Alcohol-related dementia occurred in 1.4% of dementia patients, and was more likely to occur in younger age groups and men than other types of dementia. Alcohol-related mental disorder was recorded in 70% of alcohol-related dementia multi-day admissions: dependence (52%), ‘harmful use’ (11%) and withdrawal (12%). Principal reasons for admission for multi-day stays included alcohol-related mental disorder (18%), liver disease (11%) and injuries/poisonings (10%). Medical comorbidity was common. Like other dementia patients, alcohol-related dementia patients had longer length of stay (mean of 15 days) than non-dementia patients and more transfers to residential care (7%). However, mortality was similar to non-dementia patients (5%). Discharge at own risk was high (3.7%).

Conclusions: Alcohol-related dementia is a preventable and potentially reversible condition. Investigation of intervention strategies initiated during hospitalization are warranted.
Evidence for PTPN22 R620W Polymorphism As the Sole Common Risk Variant for Rheumatoid Arthritis in the 1p13.2 Region
Authors: MARTÍN JOSE-EZEQUIEL , ALIZADEH BEHROOZ Z. , GONZÁLEZ-GAY MIGUEL A. , BALSA ALEJANDRO , PASCUAL-SALCEDO DORA , GONZÁLEZ-ESCRIBANO MARÍA F. , RODRIGUEZ-RODRIGUEZ LUIS , FERNÁNDEZ-GUTIÉRREZ BENJAMÍN , RAYA ENRIQUE , COENEN MARIEKE J.H. , van RIEL PIET , RADSTAKE TIMOTHY R.D.J. , KVIEN TORE K. , VIKEN MARTE K. , LIE BENEDICTE A. , KOELEMAN BOBBY P.C. , MARTÍN JAVIER
Published: October 2011

Objective.

The PTPN22 rs2476601 genetic variant has been associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other autoimmune diseases. Some reports suggest that this single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) may not be the only causal variant in the region of PTPN22. Our aim was to identify new independent RA-associated common gene variants in the PTPN22 region.

Methods.

We analyzed Wellcome Trust Case-Control Consortium genome-wide association study data for associations in the 397.2 kb PTPN22 region and selected 9 associated SNP (with p < 5 × 10−3) for replication and dependence analysis. The replication cohorts comprised 2857 patients with RA and 2994 controls from Spain, Netherlands, and Norway.

Results.

We found that 6 of the 9 selected SNP were associated in the Spanish cohort. Of these, 4 were also associated in the Dutch and Norwegian cohorts, and all 6 were associated with RA in the combined analysis. Conditional analyses showed that none of these associations was independent of rs2476601.

Conclusion.

The SNP rs2476601 located in the PTPN22 gene is the sole common genetic variant associated with RA in the 1p13.2 region, suggesting that neighbor genes of PTPN22 do not have a major influence in RA.
Predictors of Chronic Kidney Disease in Korean Patients with Lupus Nephritis
Authors: MOON SU-JIN , KWOK SEUNG-KI , JU JI HYEON , PARK KYUNG-SU , PARK SUNG-HWAN , CHO CHUL-SOO , KIM HO-YOUN
Published: October 2011

Objective.

Since chronic kidney disease (CKD) is closely associated with cardiovascular disease and mortality as well as endstage renal disease, prediction of progressive CKD is a clinically important issue. We investigated the independent risk factors for the development of CKD in patients with lupus nephritis (LN).

Methods.

The cohort included 322 Korean patients diagnosed with LN between 1985 and 2010. We retrospectively analyzed the clinical and laboratory indices, treatment response, the final renal function, and the biopsy findings. The timing and cumulative risk of developing CKD were identified by Kaplan-Meier methods. The independent risk factors for developing CKD were examined by univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses.

Results.

The median followup time after the diagnosis of LN was 84 months. CKD occurs in 22% of the patients within 10 years after the diagnosis of LN. The probability of developing CKD was significantly associated with the onset time of LN (delayed-onset LN vs initial-onset LN; HR 2.904, p = 0.003), deteriorated renal function [an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2body surface area] at the onset of LN (HR 7.458, p < 0.001), relapse of LN after achieving remission (HR 2.806, p = 0.029), and resistance to induction therapy (HR 8.120, p < 0.001).

Conclusion.

Our results demonstrate that delayed-onset LN, a decreased eGFR at the time of LN onset, and the failure to achieve a sustained remission are predictors for the development of CKD in Korean patients with LN.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Bone Edema Is Not a Major Feature of Gout Unless There Is Concomitant Osteomyelitis: 10-year Findings from a High-prevalence Population
Authors: POH YIH JIA , DALBETH NICOLA , DOYLE ANTHONY , McQUEEN FIONA M.
Published: October 2011

Objective.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used in autoimmune inflammatory arthritis to define disease activity and damage, but its role in gout remains unclear. The aim of our study was to identify and describe the MRI features of gout.

Methods.

Over a 10-year period we identified patients with gout who underwent MRI scanning of the hands or feet. Scans were reviewed for erosions, synovitis, tenosynovitis, tendinosis, bone edema, and tophi by a musculoskeletal radiologist and 2 rheumatologists in a blinded manner. MRI features in patients with uncomplicated gout were compared with features where concomitant osteomyelitis was diagnosed.

Results.

A total of 47 patients with gout (51 scans) were included: 33 (70%) had uncomplicated gout and 14 (30%) had gout complicated by osteomyelitis. MRI features included tophi in 36 scans (71%), erosions in 35 (69%), bone edema in 27 (53%), synovitis in 15 (29%), tenosynovitis in 8 (16%), and tendinosis in 2 (4%). Uncomplicated gout and gout plus osteomyelitis did not differ for most MRI features. However, “severe bone marrow edema” was much more common in gout plus osteomyelitis, occurring in 14/15 scans (93%) compared with 3/36 scans (8%) in uncomplicated gout (OR 154.0, 95% CI 14.7–1612, p < 0.0001). Sensitivity and specificity of “severe bone edema” for concomitant osteomyelitis were 0.93 (95% CI 0.68–0.99) and 0.92 (95% CI 0.78–0.98), respectively.

Conclusion.

MRI reveals that gout affects the joints, bones, and tendons. Bone edema in patients with chronic tophaceous gout is frequently mild and this contrasts with the “severe bone edema” observed in patients with concomitant osteomyelitis.
Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion Is a Robust Outcome Measure in Systemic Sclerosis-associated Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
Authors: MATHAI STEPHEN C. , SIBLEY CHRISTOPHER T. , FORFIA PAUL R. , MUDD JAMES O. , FISHER MICAH R. , TEDFORD RYAN J. , LECHTZIN NOAH , BOYCE DANIELLE , HUMMERS LAURA K. , HOUSTEN TRACI , ZAIMAN ARI L. , GIRGIS REDA E. , HASSOUN PAUL M.
Published: October 2011

Objective.

The tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) strongly reflects right ventricular (RV) function and predicts survival in idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). But its role in systemic sclerosis (SSc)-associated PAH has not been established. Our objective was to validate the TAPSE in the assessment of RV function and prediction of survival in SSc-PAH.

Methods.

Fifty consecutive patients with SSc-PAH who underwent echocardiography with TAPSE measurement within 1 h of clinically indicated right heart catheterization were followed prospectively. The relationship between TAPSE and measures of RV function and measures of survival was assessed.

Results.

The majority of the cohort were women in New York Heart Association class III/IV with severe PAH (mean cardiac index 2.4 ± 0.8 l/min/m2). RV function was significantly impaired (mean cardiac index 2.1 ± 0.7 vs 2.9 ± 0.8 l/min/m2; p < 0.01) and RV afterload was significantly greater (mean pulmonary vascular resistance 11.1 ± 5.1 vs 5.8 ± 2.5 Wood units; p < 0.01) in subjects with a TAPSE ≤ 1.7 cm. The proportion surviving in the low TAPSE group was significantly lower [0.56 (95% CI 0.37–0.71) and 0.46 (95% CI 0.28–0.62) vs 0.87 (95% CI 0.55–0.96) and 0.79 (95% CI 0.49–0.93), 1- and 2-year survival, respectively]. TAPSE ≤ 1.7 cm conferred a nearly 4-fold increased risk of death (HR 3.81, 95% CI 1.31–11.1, p < 0.01).

Conclusion.

TAPSE is a robust measure of RV function and strongly predicts survival in patients with PAH-SSc. Future studies are needed to identify the responsiveness of TAPSE to PAH-specific therapy and to assess its diagnostic utility in PAH-SSc.
An International, Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Phase III Trial of Pregabalin Monotherapy in Treatment of Patients with Fibromyalgia
Authors: PAUER LYNNE , WINKELMANN ANDREAS , ARSENAULT PIERRE , JESPERSEN ANDERS , WHELAN LAURENCE , ATKINSON GARY , LEON TERESA , ZEIHER BERNHARDT
Published: October 2011

Objective.

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of pregabalin monotherapy versus placebo for symptomatic pain relief and improvement of patient global assessment in patients with fibromyalgia (FM) enrolled from countries outside the United States.

Methods.

This international, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial randomly assigned 747 patients with FM to placebo or 300, 450, or 600 mg/day pregabalin twice daily for 14 weeks. Primary efficacy measures were endpoint mean pain scores and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC). Secondary outcomes included assessments of sleep and function.

Results.

Patients in the 450 mg/day pregabalin group showed significant improvements versus placebo in endpoint mean pain score (−0.56; p = 0.0132), PGIC (73% improved vs 56% placebo; p = 0.0017), and function [Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) total score −5.85; p = 0.0012]. PGIC was also significant for 600 mg/day pregabalin (69% improved; p = 0.0227). Results for these endpoints were nonsignificant for pregabalin at 300 mg/day and for pain and FIQ score at 600 mg/day. Early onset of pain relief was seen, with separation from placebo detected by Week 1 in all pregabalin groups. All pregabalin doses demonstrated superiority to placebo on the Medical Outcomes Study-Sleep Scale Sleep Disturbance subscale and the Sleep Quality diary. Dizziness and somnolence were the most frequently reported adverse events.

Conclusion.

Pregabalin demonstrated modest efficacy in pain, global assessment, and function in FM at 450 mg/day, and improved sleep across all dose levels, but it did not provide consistent evidence of benefit at 300 and 600 mg/day in this study. Pregabalin was generally well tolerated for the treatment of FM. (Clinical trial registryNCT00333866).
Cervical Laminoplasty for Multilevel Cervical Myelopathy
Authors: Sayana Murali Krishna , Jamil Hassan , Poynton Ashley
Published: October 2011

Cervical spondylotic myelopathy can result from degenerative cervical spondylosis, herniated disk material, osteophytes, redundant ligamentum flavum, or ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. Surgical intervention for multi-level myelopathy aims to decompress the spinal cord and maintain stability of the cervical spine. Laminoplasty was major surgical advancement as laminectomy resulted in kyphosis and unsatisfactory outcomes. Hirabayashi popularised the expansive open door laminoplasty which was later modified several surgeons. Laminoplasty has changed the way surgeons approach multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy.
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells in Cardiovascular Medicine
Authors: Egashira Toru , Yuasa Shinsuke , Fukuda Keiichi
Published: October 2011

Induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells are generated by reprogramming human somatic cells through the forced expression of several embryonic stem (ES) cell-specific transcription factors. The potential of iPS cells is having a significant impact on regenerative medicine, with the promise of infinite self-renewal, differentiation into multiple cell types, and no problems concerning ethics or immunological rejection. Human iPS cells are currently generated by transgene introduction principally through viral vectors, which integrate into host genomes, although the associated risk of tumorigenesis is driving research into nonintegration methods. Techniques for pluripotent stem cell differentiation and purification to yield cardiomyocytes are also advancing constantly. Although there remain some unsolved problems, cardiomyocyte transplantation may be a reality in the future. After those problems will be solved, applications of human iPS cells in human cardiovascular regenerative medicine will be envisaged for the future. Furthermore, iPS cell technology has generated new human disease models using disease-specific cells. This paper summarizes the progress of iPS cell technology in cardiovascular research.
Non-B DNA Secondary Structures and Their Resolution by RecQ Helicases
Authors: Sharma Sudha
Published: October 2011

In addition to the canonical B-form structure first described by Watson and Crick, DNA can adopt a number of alternative structures. These non-B-form DNA secondary structures form spontaneously on tracts of repeat sequences that are abundant in genomes. In addition, structured forms of DNA with intrastrand pairing may arise on single-stranded DNA produced transiently during various cellular processes. Such secondary structures have a range of biological functions but also induce genetic instability. Increasing evidence suggests that genomic instabilities induced by non-B DNA secondary structures result in predisposition to diseases. Secondary DNA structures also represent a new class of molecular targets for DNA-interactive compounds that might be useful for targeting telomeres and transcriptional control. The equilibrium between the duplex DNA and formation of multistranded non-B-form structures is partly dependent upon the helicases that unwind (resolve) these alternate DNA structures. With special focus on tetraplex, triplex, and cruciform, this paper summarizes the incidence of non-B DNA structures and their association with genomic instability and emphasizes the roles of RecQ-like DNA helicases in genome maintenance by resolution of DNA secondary structures. In future, RecQ helicases are anticipated to be additional molecular targets for cancer chemotherapeutics.
A Blend of Chlorophytum Borivilianum and Velvet Bean Increases Serum Growth Hormone in Exercise-Trained Men
Authors: Alleman Rick J. , Canale Robert E. , McCarthy Cameron G. , Bloomer Richard J.
Published: October 2011

Background

Several isolated ingredients have been proposed to increase growth hormone (GH) release, including Chlorophytum borivilianum and Velvet bean. A combination of these two ingredients has been packaged within an investigational dietary supplement. It was the purpose of the present investigation to determine the impact of acute ingestion of this supplement on circulating GH in healthy, exercise-trained men.

Methods

Fifteen men ingested the dietary supplement on two different days, separated by one week. Blood was collected from subjects before ingestion of the supplement and at 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, and 120 minutes post ingestion. GH was analyzed in serum samples using an ELISA method. Values for GH for each subject, at each collection time, were averaged over both test days and used in the main analysis.

Results

Serum GH increased over time, with higher values at 60 minutes (1.56 ± 0.65 ng mL-1; P = 0.04; +767%), 80 minutes (1.76 ± 0.69 ng · mL-1; P = 0.02; +878%), and 100 minutes (1.48 ± 0.62 ng · mL1; P = 0.05; +722%) compared to pre ingestion (0.18 ± 0.04 ng · mL-1). A great deal of subject variability existed in the area under the curve (AUC) for GH, with pooled values ranging from 0.49 to 61.2 ng · mL-1 · 2 hr-1.

Conclusion

Acute ingestion of an investigational dietary supplement containing the active ingredients Chlorophytum borivilianum and Velvet bean results in an increase in circulating GH in exercise-trained men. Additional placebo controlled investigations are needed to extend these findings. Moreover, studies are needed to determine if chronic use of such supplementation leads to favorable changes in health-related parameters associated with increased circulating GH.
High Expression of Complement Component 5 (C5) at Tumor Site Associates with Superior Survival in Ewing's Sarcoma Family of Tumour Patients
Authors: Savola Suvi , Klami Arto , Myllykangas Samuel , Manara Cristina , Scotlandi Katia , Picci Piero , Knuutila Sakari , Vakkila Jukka
Published: October 2011

Background. Unlike in most adult-onset cancers, an association between typical paediatric neoplasms and inflammatory triggers is rare. We studied whether immune system-related genes are activated and have prognostic significance in Ewing's sarcoma family of tumors (ESFTs).Method. Data analysis was performed on gene expression profiles of 44 ESFT patients, 11 ESFT cell lines, and 18 normal skeletal muscle samples. Differential expression of 238 inflammation and 299 macrophage-related genes was analysed byt-test, and survival analysis was performed according to gene expression.Results. Inflammatory genes are activated in ESFT patient samples, as 38 of 238 (16%) inflammatory genes were upregulated(P<0.001)when compared to cell lines. This inflammatory gene activation was characterized by significant enrichment of macrophage-related gene expression with 58 of 299 (19%) of genes upregulated(P<0.001). High expression of complement component 5 (C5) correlated with better event-free(P=0.01)and overall survival(P=0.004)in a dose-dependent manner. C5 and its receptor C5aR1 expression was verified at protein level by immunohistochemistry on an independent ESFT tumour tissue microarray.Conclusion. Immune system-related gene activation is observed in ESFT patient samples, and prognostically significant inflammatory genes (C5, JAK1, andIL8) for ESFT were identified.
Child Soldiers
Authors: Wessells Michael
Published: October 2011

Children, defined under international law and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child as people under 18 years of age, are widely exploited by state actors' armed forces (e.g., government troops) and by non‐state actors' armed groups (e.g., rebel groups and paramilitaries). Although the term child soldier typically evokes images of male combatants, many girls are associated with armed forces or armed groups. Child soldiers include not only combatants but also children who perform non‐combat roles such as spies, cooks, porters, and servants.
Genocide and Mass Killing: Origins and Prevention
Authors: Staub Ervin
Published: October 2011

Similar influences lead to genocide and mass killing, and mass killing can be a way station in the evolution of genocide. Early, genuine prevention requires a response to predictive conditions before it is clear what type of group violence will develop. The United Nations Genocide Convention defines genocide as “acts committed with intent to destroy in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial, or religious group.” The genocide convention does not appropriately clarify what is the meaning of “in part,” that is, when killing
some
members of a group is genocide and when it is not. The definition is also incomplete in not including the killing of political groups as genocide – which has been named politicide (Harff, 2003).
Moral Disengagement
Authors: Bandura Albert
Published: October 2011

The moral standards people adopt serve as guides for conduct and deterrents for detrimental activities. They do things that bring them satisfaction and a sense of self‐worth, and refrain from violating their moral standards because such conduct begets self‐condemnation. Self‐sanctions keep conduct in line with internal standards. However, moral standards do not function as an unwavering regulator of moral conduct. There are many psychosocial maneuvers by which people selectively disengage moral self‐sanctions from inhumane conduct. This enables them to do cruel things with freedom from the restraints of self‐censure. Indeed, large‐scale inhumanities are often perpetrated by people who are compassionate in other aspects of their lives. They can even behave compassionately and cruelly at the same time depending on whom they include and exclude in their category of humanity.