bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A frequência da utilização de profilaxia para trombose venosa profunda em pacientes clínicos hospitalizados
Authors: Pitta Guilherme Benjamin Brandão , Gomes Rosamaria Rodrigues
Published: February 2011

CONTEXTO: A profilaxia para trombose venosa profunda (TVP) está sendo subutilizada, ainda que seja a causa mais comum de mortalidade hospitalar passível de prevenção. Assim, é relevante responder à pergunta de pesquisa: qual a frequência da utilização de profilaxia para TVP em pacientes clínicos hospitalizados? OBJETIVO: Determinar a frequência da utilização de profilaxia para TVP em pacientes clínicos hospitalizados. A hipótese foi de 20%. MÉTODOS: Tipo de estudo: Estudo transversal de frequência. Local: Hospital Geral do Estado Dr. Osvaldo Brandão Vilela, Maceió, Alagoas. Amostra: Foram incluídos os pacientes clínicos e excluídos os menores de 18 anos, as gestantes e os pacientes hospitalizados há menos de 72 horas. Variável primária: a frequência da utilização de profilaxia para TVP. Variáveis secundárias: a frequência da utilização de métodos físicos e farmacológicos para a prevenção de TVP. Métodos estatísticos: O tamanho da amostra foi de 246 indivíduos (proporção=20%, precisão absoluta=5%, nível de significância=5%). Foram utilizados o teste do qui-quadrado e o intervalo de confiança de 95%. RESULTADOS: A frequência da utilização de profilaxia para TVP foi 33% (80/246; IC95% 2 a 38). A frequência da utilização de métodos físicos para a prevenção de TVP foi 17% (41/246; IC95% 12 a 21) e de métodos farmacológicos foi 26% (64/246; IC95% 21 a 31). CONCLUSÃO: A frequência da utilização de profilaxia para TVP em pacientes clínicos hospitalizados foi 33%.
Avaliação dos fatores de risco no linfedema pós-tratamento de câncer de mama
Authors: Rezende Laura Ferreira de , Rocha Alessandra Vilanova Reis , Gomes Caroline Silvestre
Published: February 2011

A principal complicação tardia no pós-operatório de câncer de mama é o desenvolvimento do linfedema, uma doença crônica, progressiva, geralmente incurável. O aumento do volume do membro pode desfigurar a imagem corporal, assim como aumentar a morbidade física e psicológica da paciente, além de promover significativo prejuízo para as funções. O presente estudo foi desenvolvido por meio de uma revisão sistemática a partir do cruzamento aleatório das palavras-chave: "linfedema", "compensações linfáticas", "sistema linfático", "dissecção axilar", "fatores de risco" e "câncer de mama". Foram selecionados 18 artigos entre os anos de 1979 e 2009, nos quais foram encontrados como principais fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento do linfedema a radioterapia, radioterapia axilar, infecção, dissecção axilar seguida de radioterapia, obesidade, número de linfonodos retirados e comprometidos e agressividade da cirurgia. As formas de compensação linfática após a dissecção axilar, como as anastomoses linfo-linfáticas, podem ser prejudicadas pela formação cicatricial, seroma pós-operatório, radioterapia e exercícios inadequados para reabilitação de ombro no câncer de mama.
Implante intencional de filtros de veia cava em ambas as veias ilíacas comuns: relato de caso e revisão da literatura
Authors: Neves Daniel Queiroz , Silva Renvik Demauir Cozine , Arantes Luis Claudio Rosa , Cardoso Márcio Cerbazzi Tavares , Lima Mauro Henrique de , Solano Gustavo Petorossi , Chouin Celso Luis Muhlethaler , Reis Paulo Eduardo Ocke
Published: February 2011

Os filtros de veia cava são utilizados para impedir a passagem de êmbolos dos membros inferiores para as artérias pulmonares e, normalmente, são colocadas imediatamente abaixo das veias renais. Em alguns casos, no entanto, existem dificuldades técnicas incomuns que devem ser superadas para tratar adequadamente alguns pacientes. Relatamos o caso de uma paciente em cujas veias ilíacas comuns foram implantados filtros de veia cava devido à baixa implantação das veias renais e da veia cava inferior curta.
Algumas implicações da percepção dos valores simbólicos das roupas: gênero masculino em foco
Authors: Davidovitsch Lia , Silva Jorge Ferreira da
Published: February 2011

Pesquisas ligadas à área de moda podem ter muito a contribuir com o entendimento do processo de consumo de bens simbólicos. Visando auxiliar o polo criador a buscar maior sintonia com as expectativas do consumidor, este trabalho objetivou analisar como a percepção dos valores simbólicos das roupas pode afetar o envolvimento do consumidor com vestuário e influir na percepção da importância dos diferentes atributos do produto. A pesquisa de campo, contando com 233 participantes, se restringiu ao consumidor masculino residente no Rio de Janeiro. A técnica da modelagem de equações estruturais testou um modelo teórico relacionando os principais conceitos e indicou bons índices de ajuste geral. O teste encontrou a percepção dos valores simbólicos exercendo uma influência significativa sobre os níveis de envolvimento com vestuário e apontou tal envolvimento como um mediador da relação entre a percepção dos valores simbólicos e a percepção da importância dos diferentes atributos das roupas.
Two new species of Moenkhausia Eigenmann (Characiformes: Characidae) from Serra do Cachimbo, Pará, Northern Brazil
Authors: Sousa Leandro M , Netto-Ferreira André L. , Birindelli José L. O
Published: February 2011

Two new species of Moenkhausia, one from the rio Tapajós and the other from the rio Xingu basins are described as apparently endemics of the Serra do Cachimbo. Both species, along with M. petymbuaba, share a distinct color pattern composed of large conspicuous dark blotches on the base of the body scales. Moenkhausia chlorophthalma, from rio Treze de Maio, a tributary to rio Curuá (rio Xingu basin), is distinguished by the presence of a proximal well delimited black area on the adipose fin and a green eye in life. Moenkhausia plumbea of the headwaters of tributaries of the rio Braço Norte, rio Tapajós basin is diagnosed by the presence of a dark longitudinal stripe across the eye and six branched pelvic-fin rays (vs. seven). Relationships of the new species with other Moenkhausia are discussed.
Distribution of Agonostomus monticola and Brycon behreae in the Río Grande de Térraba, Costa Rica and relations with water flow
Authors: Ribeiro Thiago Cotta , Villalobos Gerardo Umaña
Published: February 2011

Fish monthly samples were made in three tributaries and in the main stream in order to study population dynamics and the influence of flow on abundance of Agonostomus monticola (Mugilidae) and Brycon behreae (Characidae) in the basin of Térraba River Basin (Costa Rica). Flow was seasonal in these rivers, with peak flow in October. Recruitment was different among the species, B. behreae recruited from January to June and A. monticola all year round with a peak in June-July and October-November. Juveniles were more abundant in smaller streams. Abundance was higher in general during low flow and low turbidity periods. The results suggest that the streams have an important role in the maintenance of both species in the ecosystem, where juveniles can use the streams as nursing habitats during their development, allowing these small streams to be considered as essential fish habitats. Also, it was determined that the increased volume and turbidity of water can significantly affect the proportion of adults and juveniles between the main river and its tributaries.
Histochemistry and functional organization of the dorsal skin of Ancistrus dolichopterus (Siluriformes: Loricariidae)
Authors: Garg Tarun K. , Domingos Fabíola X. Valdez , Almeida-Val Vera Maria F. , Val Adalberto L.
Published: February 2011

The structural organization and histo-cytochemical features of dorsal skin of Ancistrus dolichopterus (acari bodo) are the main focus of this work. The epidermis, dermis and subcutis are the principal layers of the skin. The epidermis mainly consists of epithelial and mucous cells. Interspersed between them are lymphocytes, pigment cells, eosinophilic granular cells (EGC), and the taste buds as sensory structures. The high number of EGCs is implicated in general and specific immunological defense from pathogenic bacteria and multicellular parasites. The epithelial cells and mucous cells contain glycoproteins with oxidizable vicinal diols, carboxyl groups and O-sulphate esters and their high secretory activity is correlated with the bottom dwelling habit of this species. A thick stratum laxum contains overlapping osteoderms bearing denticles, and the stratum compactum make the integument thicker to help the fish in negative buoyancy for maneuvering near the bottom and protection. The entire body surface is covered by conical, backwardly directed denticles. These are composed of a dentine cone, surrounding a pulp cavity with the top covered by mineralized cap, and are the true homologues of teeth. These structures provide effective protection from abrasion and enemies. These structural peculiarities and histochemical features indicate additional physiological role of the skin of A. dolichopterus.
A dinâmica de condução nervosa via modelo de FitzHugh-Nagumo
Authors: Assis Thiago Albuquerque de , Miranda José Garcia Vivas , Cavalcante Sílvia Larisse do Patrocínio
Published: February 2011

O mecanismo de transmissão dos impulsos elétricos em uma célula nervosa é muito diferente do mecanismo da condução eletrônica nos metais. A física, apesar disso, tem uma importante função na explicação deste processo. Neste trabalho, são estudadas algumas características destas células especializadas. Para isto, faremos uso do modelo de equações diferenciais de FitzHugh-Nagumo, especialmente para a análise dos pontos fixos, estabilidades e bifurcações. As características fundamentais do mecanismo de propagação do pulso sináptico em um neurônio, são mostradas em um simples cenário possibilitando a compreensão do fenômeno de excitabilidade, em um contexto geométrico. Portanto, a análise do espaço de fases apresenta-se como um item fundamental para a compreensão visual da dinâmica da propagação do impulso nervoso.
The first steps in vision in the classroom
Authors: Santos A.C.F
Published: February 2011

We examine, using the particle-in-the-box model, the transient absorption measurements of the cis-trans isomerization by the visual pigment rhodopsin present in the retina [R.W. Schoenlein et al., Science 254, 412 (1991)], which contains the retinene group, a conjugated system, which is formed by single and double carbon-carbon atoms, and works as a light antenna in the process of photon absorption. The present approach is directly applicable to the classroom in undergraduate chemistry and physics major courses.
CDs como lentes difrativas
Authors: Catelli Francisco , Libardi Helena
Published: February 2011

Atividades didáticas que envolvem o uso de CDs como redes de difração não são novidade. A confecção de espectroscópios simples e a projeção de espectros para grandes audiências são algumas das sugestões de uso. Neste trabalho, é sugerido o uso de um retroprojetor como fonte de luz, munido de uma fenda circular. As vantagens desta montagem vão da interpretação bastante simples da figura de difração obtida ao estudo dos CDs como "lentes difrativas". Uma variante da montagem aqui sugerida permite a medida acurada da distância entre trilhas adjacentes de um CD gravável. Os dividendos didáticos que podem ser auferidos a partir da exploração de objetos do quotidiano (neste caso, o CD) vão da aprendizagem ativa a "resolução" destes objetos como geradores de reflexão, indagação e conscientização.
O sistema de navegação aérea de Júlio Cézar Ribeiro de Souza
Authors: Visoni Rodrigo Moura , Canalle João Batista Garcia
Published: February 2011

Neste artigo é feita uma análise dos trabalhos aeronáuticos de Júlio Cézar Ribeiro de Souza, inventor paraense famoso no Brasil durante a década de 1880. Ribeiro de Souza foi o criador de um sistema de navegação aérea amplamente discutido no Instituto Politécnico Brasileiro, que não chegou na época a um acordo sobre a funcionabilidade do invento. Alguns autores procuraram atribuir a Souza a invenção do dirigível -notadamente Fernando Medina do Amaral (1926-2001) e Luís Carlos Bassalo Crispino -, mérito pertencente a Alberto Santos Dumont. Utilizando conhecimentos aerodinâmicos básicos, porém, o presente estudo evidencia que o Sistema Júlio Cézar, se concretizado, teria se mostrado absolutamente ineficaz.
Avaliação retrospectiva de artrodese cervical com enxerto autólogo versus hidroxiapatita
Authors: Nagasse Yoshinobu , Yamazato Clóvis , Oliveira Fábio Mastromauro , Ribeiro Iberê , Bastos Junior José Olympio Catão , Kusabara René
Published: February 2011

OBJETIVO: os autores realizaram um estudo e compararam o resultado radiográfico no uso de hidroxiapatita e enxerto de crista ilíaca (autólogo) no tratamento cirúrgico de hérnia discal cervical em um nível, sendo realizada artrodese cervical anterior com placa. MÉTODOS: foi realizado estudo retrospectivo com pacientes submetidos à artrodese cervical comparando-se dois grupos de dez pacientes: um em que foi utilizado enxerto de hidroxiapatita e outro em que foi utilizado enxerto de crista ilíaca (autólogo). Radiografias pós-operatórias foram mensuradas e comparadas, à busca de perdas de alinhamento angular. RESULTADOS: os dois tipos de enxerto demonstraram manter alinhamento em taxas similares, sendo observada consolidação óssea em todos os pacientes. O estudo não mostrou fragmentação do enxerto de hidroxiapatita ou soltura do material de síntese. CONCLUSÃO: nesta pequena série de casos não foi observada diferença significativa entre os resultados da artrodese cervical anterior com enxerto de hidroxiapatita em relação ao enxerto autólogo de ilíaco.
Consulta de enfermagem: espaço para criação e utilização de protocolo para pacientes após revascularização miocárdica
Authors: Lima Francisca Elisângela Teixeira , Araújo Thelma Leite de , Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães , Medeiros Albeniza Mesquita de , Custódio Ires Lopes , Melo Elizabeth Mesquita
Published: February 2011

Estudo descritivo com objetivo de descrever um protocolo de consultas de enfermagem testado para pacientes após revascularização miocárdica. O protocolo, aplicado em uma unidade de cardiologia hospitalar, possui metas que devem ser atingidas no decorrer da consulta ou no período entre elas. Para o alcance de cada meta, foram estabelecidas as ações de enfermagem que devem ser executadas pelo enfermeiro, expostas em três quadros: Estratégias de consulta de enfermagem referente ao primeiro atendimento; Estratégias de consultas de enfermagem referente aos atendimentos nº 2, nº 3 e nº 4; Estratégias de consultas de enfermagem referente ao atendimento nº 5 referente ao sexto mês após a cirurgia. A partir da aplicação do protocolo foi possível realizar uma avaliação sistemática do paciente, levantando seus reais problemas para planejar e realizar intervenções de enfermagem, principalmente as relacionadas às mudanças comportamentais.
What Is the Role of Radiotherapy in Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma?
Authors: Price Allan
Published: February 2011

Objective.

A review of the evidence supporting the use of radiotherapy in patients with mesothelioma was performed.

Methods.

Relevant publications were searched for on Medline.

Results.

In a Medline search on radiotherapy and mesothelioma, 611 hits were obtained. A limited number of prospective phase II trials of radiotherapy as part of trimodality protocols for early disease and in the palliation of pain were found, along with three small randomized controlled trials of port-site prophylaxis.

Conclusion.

No randomized data exist to support the use of radiotherapy after radical surgery, although there are a large number of publications describing its use as an integral part of therapy, including seven phase II studies. One ongoing trial is randomizing patients to radiotherapy or not after extrapleural pneumonectomy. None of these studies provided any assessment of radiotherapy independent of the other modalities investigated, nor did any formally assess intensity-modulated radiotherapy. There have been several reports of excessive toxicity with this technique, and its use should be limited to phase I studies until the basis of this toxicity is better understood. Three trials have looked at port-site prophylaxis, one supporting its use and two showing no evidence of benefit. Two studies addressed pain control prospectively, one showing definite but short-lived benefits.

Implications.

Radiotherapy is widely used in treating mesothelioma with little supporting evidence. More randomized trials are required to justify this use in all three common settings for its use.
Clinical Relevance of the Dose of Cytarabine in the Upfront Treatment of Primary CNS Lymphomas with Methotrexate-Cytarabine Combination
Authors: Ferreri Andrés J. M. , Licata Giada , Foppoli Marco , Corazzelli Gaetano , Zucca Emanuele , Stelitano Caterina , Zaja Francesco , Fava Sergio , Paolini Rossella , Franzin Alberto , Politi Letterio S. , Ponzoni Maurilio , Reni Michele
Published: February 2011

Background.

The combination of high doses of methotrexate (MTX) and cytarabine (araC) is the standard chemotherapy for patients with primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL). The addition of an alkylating agent could improve MTX-araC efficacy because it is active against quiescent G0 cells and increases antimetabolites cytotoxicity. A pilot experience with high doses of MTX, araC, and thiotepa (MAT regimen) was performed to investigate feasibility and efficacy of adding an alkylating agent. With respect to MTX-araC combination, araC dose was halved to minimize toxicity. Herein, we report tolerability, activity, and efficacy of MAT regimen and compare these results to those previously reported with MTX/ara-C combination.

Methods.

Twenty HIV-negative patients with PCNSL treated with MAT regimen and whole-brain irradiation and selected according to eligibility criteria of the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG) #20 trial were analyzed.

Results.

Patient characteristics of MAT and MTX-araC series were similar. G4 hematologic toxicity was common after MAT chemotherapy, with dose reductions in 60% of patients, infections in 20%, G4 non-hematologic toxicity in 15%, and one (5%) toxic death. Response after chemotherapy was complete in four patients (clinical response rate, 20%; 95% confidence interval, 3%–37%) and partial in three (overall response rate, 35%; 95% confidence interval, 15%–55%). Fifteen patients experienced failure and 16 died (median follow-up, 26 months), with a 2-year overall survival of 24% ± 9%.

Conclusions.

MAT and MTX-araC combinations showed similar tolerability, whereas araC dose reduction was associated with a remarkably lower efficacy, hiding any potential benefit of thiotepa. Four doses of araC 2 g/m2 per course are recommended in patients with PCNSL.
Information Metrics in Genetic Epidemiology
Authors: Tritchler David L , Sucheston Lara , Chanda Pritam , Ramanathan Murali
Published: February 2011

Information-theoretic metrics have been proposed for studying gene-gene and gene-environment interactions in genetic epidemiology. Although these metrics have proven very promising, they are typically interpreted in the context of communications and information transmission, diminishing their tangibility for epidemiologists and statisticians.

In this paper, we clarify the interpretation of information-theoretic metrics. In particular, we develop the methods so that their relation to the global properties of probability models is made clear and contrast them with log-linear models for multinomial data. Hopefully, a better understanding of their properties and probabilistic implications will promote their acceptance and correct usage in genetic epidemiology. Our novel development also suggests new approaches to model search and computation.
The influence of polymer addition on flexural strength, fracture mode and porosity of traditional ceramics
Authors: Rajnovic Dragan , Balos Sebastian , Sidjanin Leposava , Radeka Miroslava , Petrovic Snezana , Zoric Dmitar , Ranogajec Jonjaua
Published: February 2011

The usage of an air-swept milling of raw materials is the most efficient
method for preventing the negative lime-blowing process of ceramic roofing
tiles. However, after air-swept milling the clay minerals lose water which
has to be returned back before the shaping procedure. Addition of surface
active materials could increase hidrophilicity of the raw material and reduce
needed time for re-wetting trough the control of meso, micro and nano
porosity of the clay material. In view of that, the object of this research
was to study the influence of polyethylene glycol (PEG600) on porosity,
mechanical properties and fracture surface characteristics of traditional
ceramic materials. It was founded that with the addition of polyethylene
glycol (PEG600) to traditional clay materials it is possible to achieve
desired porosity, from meso, trough micro and up to nano, without degrading
the mechanical properties of the final products.
Influence of different acids for adjusting the dyebath ph value on the dyeability of polyester knitwear dyed with disperse yellow 23
Authors: Miljkovic Milena , Purenovic Milovan , Djordjevic Dragan , Petrovic Milica
Published: February 2011

In this paper the influence of the formic and oxalic acids, as substances for
dyebath pH adjusting, on the dyeability of polyester fabric dyed with
disperse dye Disperse Yellow 23 was examined. The polyester undyed knitwear
samples were dyed in baths containing the acids under the same dyeing
conditions. Color differences of the samples were assessed using the
reflectiometry technique and expressed in terms of CIELcoordinates. The
influence of the tested acids on the surface structure of dyed polyester
fibers was examined using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It was
found that the differences in obtained dyeabilities, in the presence of both
formic and oxalic acid, are acceptable according to both M&S 83A and CMC
(2:1) standards which was not the case with acetic acid. Therefore, acetic
acid can be replaced with either formic or oxalic acid as substances for
dyebath pH adjusting in the dyeing process described in this paper. SEM
micrographs showed small differences in the surface structure of dyed fibers,
as well as differences in the shape of undyed samples? reflectance curves in
presence of the acids. Since all of the color differences were quite small,
it can be concluded that the influence of formic and oxalic acids on the
polyester knitwear dyeability is not significantly different than that of
acetic acid.
Simple in situ decompression for idiopathic cubital tunnel syndrome using minimal skin incision
Authors: Jeon In-Ho , Micic Ivan , Lee Byung-Woo , Lee Seong-Man , Kim Poong-Tak , Stojiljkovic Predrag
Published: February 2011

Cubital tunnel syndrome is one of the most frequently occurring compression neuropathy in the upper limb next to carpal tunnel syndrome. Recent minimal invasive technique has prompted us to gain clinical experience with simple in situ decompression with minimal skin incision for idiopathic cubital tunnel syndrome. Sixty six consecutive patients with cubital tunnel syndrome were treated using minimal skin incision technique. The mean age of the patients was 49.7 (range: 15-77) years and average follow up period was 23.9 months (range: 12-60 months). The severity of ulnar neuropathy was classified according to the McGowan classification: there were 17 in grade I , 47 in grade II and 2 in grade III. A preoperative nerve conduction study was done by inching method, which revealed motor conduction delay around the medial epicondyle. All operations were carried out in a day surgery unit under local anesthetics. The postoperative outcome was evaluated by Messina classification. The mean duration of the operation was 12 minutes. The technique was highly satisfactorily esthetic for all. Over 80% of the patients were completely satisfied with the procedure taking into consideration their symptoms. Postoperative outcome measures and patient satisfactions (pain, return to normal activities and work, scar and pillar tenderness) were comparable with published series of anterior transposition. The overall satisfactory results were recorded 81% in the patients of McGowan stage I and II. There were 2 cases of hematoma as a postoperative complication. This procedure is comparably effective alternative which involves less surgical trauma, morbidity and rehabilitation time with good surgical outcomes especially in mild and moderate degrees. Minimal skin incision is a simple, safe and effective method to treat patients with idiopathic cubital tunnel syndrome.
Tumor Progression Locus 2 (TPL2) Regulates Obesity-Associated Inflammation and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Perfield James W. , Lee Yunkyoung , Shulman Gerald I. , Samuel Varman T. , Jurczak Michael J. , Chang Eugene , Xie Chen , Tsichlis Phillip N. , Obin Martin S. , Greenberg Andrew S.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

Obesity-associated low-grade systemic inflammation resulting from increased adipose mass is strongly related to the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes as well as other metabolic complications. Recent studies have demonstrated that the obese metabolic state can be improved by ablating certain inflammatory signaling pathways. Tumor progression locus 2 (TPL2), a kinase that integrates signals from Toll receptors, cytokine receptors, and inhibitor of κ-B kinase-β is an important regulator of inflammatory pathways. We used TPL2 knockout (KO) mice to investigate the role of TPL2 in mediating obesity-associated inflammation and insulin resistance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Male TPL2KO and wild-type (WT) littermates were fed a low-fat diet or a high-fat diet to investigate the effect of TPL2 deletion on obesity, inflammation, and insulin sensitivity.

RESULTS

We demonstrate that TPL2 deletion does not alter body weight gain or adipose depot weight. However, hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp studies revealed improved insulin sensitivity with enhanced glucose uptake in skeletal muscle and increased suppression of hepatic glucose output in obese TPL2KO mice compared with obese WT mice. Consistent with an improved metabolic phenotype, immune cell infiltration and inflammation was attenuated in the adipose tissue of obese TPL2KO mice coincident with reduced hepatic inflammatory gene expression and lipid accumulation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results provide the first in vivo demonstration that TPL2 ablation attenuates obesity-associated metabolic dysfunction. These data suggest TPL2 is a novel target for improving the metabolic state associated with obesity.
Hyperuricemia as a Mediator of the Proinflammatory Endocrine Imbalance in the Adipose Tissue in a Murine Model of the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Baldwin William , McRae Steven , Marek George , Wymer David , Pannu Varinderpal , Baylis Chris , Johnson Richard J. , Sautin Yuri Y.
Published: February 2011

OBJECTIVE

Hyperuricemia is strongly associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome and can predict visceral obesity and insulin resistance. Previously, we showed that soluble uric acid directly stimulated the redox-dependent proinflammatory signaling in adipocytes. In this study we demonstrate the role of hyperuricemia in the production of key adipokines.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used mouse 3T3-L1 adipocytes, human primary adipocytes, and a mouse model of metabolic syndrome and hyperuricemia.

RESULTS

Uric acid induced in vitro an increase in the production (mRNA and secreted protein) of monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1), an adipokine playing an essential role in inducing the proinflammatory state in adipocytes in obesity. In addition, uric acid caused a decrease in the production of adiponectin, an adipocyte-specific insulin sensitizer and anti-inflammatory agent. Uric acid–induced increase in MCP-1 production was blocked by scavenging superoxide or by inhibiting NADPH oxidase and by stimulating peroxisome-proliferator–activated receptor-γ with rosiglitazone. Downregulation of the adiponectin production was prevented by rosiglitazone but not by antioxidants. In obese mice with metabolic syndrome, we observed hyperuricemia. Lowering uric acid in these mice by inhibiting xanthine oxidoreductase with allopurinol could improve the proinflammatory endocrine imbalance in the adipose tissue by reducing production of MCP-1 and increasing production of adiponectin. In addition, lowering uric acid in obese mice decreased macrophage infiltration in the adipose tissue and reduced insulin resistance.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperuricemia might be partially responsible for the proinflammatory endocrine imbalance in the adipose tissue, which is an underlying mechanism of the low-grade inflammation and insulin resistance in subjects with the metabolic syndrome.
The finite speed of propagation of solutions of the Neumann problem of a degenerate parabolic equation
Authors: Pan Jiaqing
Published: February 2011

In this paper the finite speed of propagation of solutions and the continuous dependence on the nonlinearity of a degenerate parabolic partial differential equation are discussed. Our objective is to derive an explicit expression for the speed of propagation and the large time behavior of the solution and to show that the solution continuously depends on the nonlinearity of the equation.
Changes in the system of organization and financing of culture in Poland in the years 2001-2008
Authors: Suchecki Adam
Published: February 2011

After the collapse of socialism the democratic structures of the Polish government and the society are still in the way of forming process. After the year 1989 till now Poland make some formal and crucial steps to change the administrating system, also in the field of cultural policy and art institutions. This article will show the major reforms and changes in public administration system in Poland according to changes in the sphere of culture in the years 2001-2009 and the final form of the culture finance system. The reason of this time horizon is, that before year 2001 the data have been incomplete according to the spatial regional reforms in the local administration systems. I will try to show the effects of changes, such as how new administration and local governments use culture as a part of economic capital of the regions and cities, I will show changes in public expenditures for culture and new possibilities and plans of financing this sphere in Poland.
HIV-1 Integrase Inhibitors: A Review of Their Chemical Development
Authors: Ingale Kundan B , Bhatia Manish S
Published: February 2011

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) significantly decreases plasma viral load, increases CD4+ T-cell counts in HIV-1-infected patients and has reduced progression to AIDS in developed countries. However, adverse side effects, and emergence of drug resistance, mean there is still a demand for new anti-HIV agents. The HIV integrase (IN) is a target that has been the focus of rational drug design over the past decade. In 2007, raltegravir was the first IN inhibitor approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for antiretroviral combination therapy, while another IN inhibitor, elvitegravir, is currently in Phase III clinical trials. This article reviews the development and resistance profiling of small molecule HIV-1 IN inhibitors.
Una Estrategia en la Búsqueda de Materiales
Authors: Alario y Franco Miguel Ángel
Published: February 2011

No disponible
Catálisis con zeolitas: Desde el laboratorio a su aplicación industrial
Authors: Corma Avelino
Published: February 2011

No disponible
Quimica y deporte: La lucha contra el dopaje en el horizonte del siglo XXI
Authors: Lissavetzky Jaime
Published: February 2011

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Distinct Roles of IL-23 and IL-17 in the Development of Psoriasis-Like Lesions in a Mouse Model
Authors: Nakajima Kimiko , Kanda Takashi , Takaishi Mikiro , Shiga Takeo , Miyoshi Ken , Nakajima Hideki , Kamijima Reiko , Tarutani Masahito , Benson Jacqueline M. , Elloso M. Merle , Gutshall Lester L. , Naso Michael F. , Iwakura Yoichiro , DiGiovanni John , Sano Shigetoshi
Published: February 2011

Psoriasis is an inflammatory disease with dynamic interactions between the immune system and the skin. The IL-23/Th17 axis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, although the exact contributions of IL-23 and IL-17 in vivo remain unclear. K5.Stat3C transgenic mice constitutively express activated Stat3 within keratinocytes, and these animals develop skin lesions with histological and cytokine profiles similar to those of human plaque psoriasis. In this study, we characterized the effects of anti-mouse IL-17A, anti-mouse IL-12/23p40, and anti-mouse IL-23p19 Abs on the development of psoriasis-like lesions in K5.Stat3C transgenic mice. Treatment with anti–IL-12/23p40 or anti–IL-23p19 Abs greatly inhibited 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate–induced epidermal hyperplasia in the ears of K5.Stat3C mice, whereas the inhibitory effect of an anti–IL-17A Ab was relatively less prominent. Treatment with anti–IL-12/23p40 or anti–IL-23p19 Abs markedly lowered transcript levels of Th17 cytokines (e.g., IL-17 and IL-22), β-defensins, and S100A family members in skin lesions. However, anti–IL-17A Ab treatment did not affect mRNA levels of Th17 cytokines. Crossing IL-17A–deficient mice with K5.Stat3C mice resulted in partial attenuation of 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate–induced lesions, which were further attenuated by anti–IL-12/23p40 Ab treatment. FACS analysis of skin-draining lymph node cells from mice that were intradermally injected with IL-23 revealed an increase in both IL-22–producing T cells and NK-22 cells. Taken together, this system provides a useful mouse model for psoriasis and demonstrates distinct roles for IL-23 and IL-17.
N-α-Benzoyl-N5-(2-Chloro-1-Iminoethyl)-l-Ornithine Amide, a Protein Arginine Deiminase Inhibitor, Reduces the Severity of Murine Collagen-Induced Arthritis
Authors: Willis Van C. , Gizinski Alison M. , Banda Nirmal K. , Causey Corey P. , Knuckley Bryan , Cordova Kristen N. , Luo Yuan , Levitt Brandt , Glogowska Magdalena , Chandra Piyanka , Kulik Liudmila , Robinson William H. , Arend William P. , Thompson Paul R. , Holers V. Michael
Published: February 2011

Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with the development of autoantibodies to citrullinated self-proteins. Citrullinated synovial proteins, which are generated via the actions of the protein arginine deiminases (PADs), are known to develop in the murine collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) model of inflammatory arthritis. Given these findings, we evaluated whether N-α-benzoyl-N5-(2-chloro-1-iminoethyl)-l-ornithine amide (Cl-amidine), a recently described pan-PAD inhibitor, could affect the development of arthritis and autoimmunity by treating mice in the CIA model with Cl-amidine on days 0–35. Cl-amidine treatment reduced total synovial and serum citrullination, decreased clinical disease activity by ∼50%, and significantly decreased IgG2a anti-mouse type II collagen Abs. Additionally, histopathology scores and total complement C3 deposition were significantly lower in Cl-amidine–treated mice compared with vehicle controls. Synovial microarray analyses demonstrated decreased IgG reactivity to several native and citrullinated epitopes compared with vehicle controls. Cl-amidine treatment had no ameliorative effect on collagen Ab-induced arthritis, suggesting its primary protective mechanism was not mediated through effector pathways. Reduced levels of citrullinated synovial proteins observed in mice treated with Cl-amidine are consistent with the notion that Cl-amidine derives its efficacy from its ability to inhibit the deiminating activity of PADs. In total, these results suggested that PADs are necessary participants in the autoimmune and subsequent inflammatory processes in CIA. Cl-amidine may represent a novel class of disease-modifying agents that modulate aberrant citrullination, and perhaps other immune processes, necessary for the development of inflammatory arthritis.
KLRG1+NKG2A+ CD8 T Cells Mediate Protection and Participate in Memory Responses during γ-Herpesvirus Infection
Authors: Cush Stephanie S. , Flaño Emilio
Published: February 2011

Functional CD8 T cell effector and memory responses are generated and maintained during murine γ-herpesvirus 68 (γHV68) persistent infection despite continuous presentation of viral lytic Ags. However, the identity of the CD8 T cell subpopulations that mediate effective recall responses and that can participate in the generation of protective memory to a γ-herpesvirus infection remains unknown. During γHV68 persistence, ∼75% of γHV68-specific CD8 T cells coexpress the NK receptors killer cell lectin-like receptor G1 (KLRG1) and NKG2A. In this study, we take advantage of this unique phenotype to analyze the capacity of CD8 T cells expressing or not expressing KLRG1 and NKG2A to mediate effector and memory responses. Our results show that γHV68-specific KLRG1+NKG2A+ CD8 T cells have an effector memory phenotype as well as characteristics of polyfunctional effector cells such us IFN-γ and TNF-α production, killing capacity, and are more efficient at protecting against a γHV68 challenge than their NKG2A−KLRG1− counterparts. Nevertheless, γHV68-specific NKG2A+KLRG1+ CD8 T cells express IL-7 and IL-15 receptors, can survive long-term without cognate Ag, and subsequently mount a protective response during antigenic recall. These results highlight the plasticity of the immune system to generate protective effector and proliferative memory responses during virus persistence from a pool of KLRG1+NKG2A+ effector memory CD8 T cells.
IL-9 Promotes Th17 Cell Migration into the Central Nervous System via CC Chemokine Ligand-20 Produced by Astrocytes
Authors: Zhou Yan , Sonobe Yoshifumi , Akahori Tomohiko , Jin Shijie , Kawanokuchi Jun , Noda Mariko , Iwakura Yoichiro , Mizuno Tetsuya , Suzumura Akio
Published: February 2011

Newly discovered IL-9–producing helper T cells (Th9) reportedly exert both aggravating and suppressive roles on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, an animal model of multiple sclerosis. However, it is still unclear whether Th9 is a distinct Th cell subset and how IL-9 functions in the CNS. In this study, we show that IL-9 is produced by naive CD4+ T cells that were stimulated with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 Abs under the conditions of Th2-, inducible regulatory T cell-, Th17-, and Th9-polarizing conditions and that IL-9 production is significantly suppressed in the absence of IL-4, suggesting that IL-4 is critical for the induction of IL-9 by each producing cell. The IL-9 receptor complex, IL-9R and IL-2Rγ, is constitutively expressed on astrocytes. IL-9 induces astrocytes to produce CCL-20 but not other chemokines, including CCL-2, CCL-3, and CXCL-2 by astrocytes. The conditioned medium of IL-9–stimulated astrocytes induces Th17 cell migration in vitro, which is cancelled by adding anti–CCL-20 neutralizing Abs. Treating with anti–IL-9 neutralizing Abs attenuates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, decreases the number of infiltrating Th17 cells, and reduces CCL-20 expression in astrocytes. These results suggest that IL-9 is produced by several Th cell subsets in the presence of IL-4 and induces CCL-20 production by astrocytes to induce the migration of Th17 cells into the CNS.
Interplay between TNF and Regulatory T Cells in a TNF-Driven Murine Model of Arthritis
Authors: Biton Jérôme , Semerano Luca , Delavallée Laure , Lemeiter Delphine , Laborie Marion , Grouard-Vogel Géraldine , Boissier Marie-Christophe , Bessis Natacha
Published: February 2011

CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) are involved in several autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis. TNF-α blockers induce therapeutic benefits in rheumatoid arthritis via a variety of mechanisms. We aimed to characterize the impact on Treg of TNF-α overexpression in vivo and of TNF-α inhibiting treatments. We used human TNF-α transgenic mice as a model of strictly TNF-α–dependent arthritis. Our study showed that initial Treg frequency was lower in TNF-α transgenic mice than in wild-type mice. However, the course of arthritis was marked by elevation of Treg frequency and a dramatic increase in expression of TNFR2. Antagonizing TNF-α with either the anti-human TNF-α Ab (infliximab) or active immunotherapy (TNF-kinoid) increased the Treg frequency and upregulated CTLA-4, leading to enhancement of suppressor activity. Moreover, both anti–TNF-α strategies promoted the differentiation of a CD62L− Treg population. In conclusion, in an in vivo model of TNF-α–driven arthritis, Treg frequency increased with inflammation but failed to control the inflammatory process. Both passive and active TNF-α–inhibiting strategies restored the suppressor activity of Treg and induced the differentiation of a CD62L− Treg population.
Physical Performance Is Associated with Executive Functioning in Older African American Women
Authors: Schneider Brooke C. , Lichtenberg Peter A.
Published: February 2011

An older adult's ability to perform physical tasks is predictive of disability onset and is associated with declines in cognition. Risk factors for physical performance declines among African Americans, a group with the highest rates of disability, remain understudied. This study sought to identify demographic, health, and cognitive factors associated with lower-extremity physical performance in a sample of 106 African American women ages 56 to 91. After controlling for global cognitive functioning (Mini Mental State Exam), physical performance was associated with executive functioning (Stroop Color/Word), but not visuospatial construction (WASI Block Design) or processing speed (Trail Making Test, Part A). Executive functioning remained associated with physical performance after entry of demographic variables, exercise, depression, disease burden, and body mass index (BMI). Age, and BMI were also significant in this model. Executive functioning, age and BMI are associated with lower-extremity physical performance among older African American women.
Treatment of Severe Metastatic Calcification and Calciphylaxis in Dialysis Patients
Authors: Goel Saurabh K. , Bellovich Keith , McCullough Peter A.
Published: February 2011

Metastatic calcification is a frequent complication encountered in patients undergoing maintenance dialysis and has a complex pathogenesis. It is often difficult to treat and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Early recognition and prompt initiation of treatment is vital. Local wound care and aggressive metabolic control remain the cornerstones of the therapy. Various novel treatment strategies including sodium thiosulfate and hyperbaric oxygen therapy have been utilized and reviewed in this paper. The response rate to treatment is poor and prevention is the best approach.
TrkB Isoforms Differentially Affect AICD Production through Their Intracellular Functional Domains
Authors: Ansaloni Sara , Leung Brian P. , Sebastian Neeraj P. , Samudralwar Rohini , Gadaleta Mariana , Saunders Aleister J.
Published: February 2011

We report that NTRK2, the gene encoding for the TrkB receptor, can regulate APP metabolism, specifically AICD levels. Using the human neuroblastoma cell line SH‐SY5Y, we characterized the effect of three TrkB isoforms (FL, SHC, T) on APP metabolism by knockdown and overexpression. We found that TrkB FL increases AICD‐mediated transcription and APP levels while it decreases sAPP levels. These effects were mainly mediated by the tyrosine kinase activity of the receptor and partially by the PLC‐γ‐ and SHC‐binding sites. The TrkB T truncated isoform did not have significant effects on APP metabolism when transfected by itself, while the TrkB SHC decreased AICD‐mediated transcription. TrkB T abolished TrkB FL effects on APP metabolism when cotransfected with it while TrkB SHC cotransfected with TrkB FL still showed increased APP levels. In conclusion, we demonstrated that TrkB isoforms have differential effects on APP metabolism.
Plasma amino acid concentrations and mRNA expression of components related to protein degradation in lambs with nutritionally induced metabolic acidosis
Authors: Greenwood S.L. , AlZahal O. , Purdie N.G. , Swanson K.C. , McBride B.W.
Published: February 2011

Aspects of amino acid metabolism and proteolysis were examined in lambs with metabolic acidosis. Lambs (n = 30; 42.8 ± 4.1 kg BW) were randomly assigned to treatment groups, receiving a topdress of either (1) dried distiller’s grain (DDG; anion load of 7 mEq 100 g-1 DM, (2) DDG + NH4Cl-treated DDG (anionic load of -29 mEq 100 g-1 DM), or (3) DDG + NH4Cl-treated DDG (anionic load of -42 mEq 100 g-1 DM). Lambs were maintained on DDG topdress for 9 d, after which increasing amounts of DDG were substituted with NH4Cl-treated DDG in the treatment group diets from day 10 to day 21. Blood gas, blood acid-base, urine pH and plasma amino acid concentrations were determined on day 9 and day 21. On day 22, lambs were slaughtered and kidney, liver, extensor digitorum longus muscle (EDL), and soleus muscle samples were collected. Blood pH, bicarbonate, base excess of blood and extracellular fluid, total CO2 and urinary pH were linearly decreased as dietary anionic load increased (P < 0.001). Plasma glutamine, glycine, histidine, arginine and asparagine increased linearly (P < 0.06) due to acidosis, while renal glutamate dehydrogenase (P = 0.02) and hepatic glutamine synthetase (P = 0.02) mRNA expression were linearly increased. Caspase-3 mRNA expression was linearly decreased in soleus muscle by acidosis (P = 0.01), but not in EDL muscle. No change in mRNA expression of components of the ubiquitin-mediated proteolytic pathway was observed in either muscle. These results suggest muscle-specific regulation of caspase-3 mRNA expression during metabolic acidosis in sheep.
Free endotoxins in the feces of lactating dairy cows
Authors: Li S. , Khafipour E. , Krause D.O. , Rodriguez-Lecompte J.C. , Plaizier J.C.
Published: February 2011

A survey was conducted on 300 lactating dairy cows on 10 dairy farms to determine how risk factors for and symptoms of excessive grain feeding and subacute ruminal acidosis are associated with the concentrations of endotoxins in feces measured with the Limulus amoebocyte lysate test. Increases in days in milk and haptoglobin in blood plasma were associated with lower (P = 0.02) and higher (P = 0.02) fecal endotoxin, respectively. The five farms with a dietary neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content higher than 33.8% of DM had lower (P < 0.01) fecal endotoxin than those with a dietary NDF content lower than 33.8% of DM (31 790 vs. 69 276 endotoxin units (EU) g-1 of wet feces, P < 0.01). Parity, milk yield, milk fat percentage, milk protein percentage, the blood plasma concentration of serum amyloid A, and the dietary content of physically effective fibre were not associated with the fecal endotoxin concentration.
Board Invited Review: Management and feeding strategies to ameliorate the impact of removing antibiotic growth promoters from diets fed to weanling pigs
Authors: Kil D.Y. , Stein H.H.
Published: February 2011

A review of the literature was conducted with the objective of identifying management and feeding strategies for weanling pigs that are effective in reducing the negative impacts of discontinued use of antibiotic growth promoters (AGP) in diets fed to weanling pigs. If no AGP are used, dietary crude protein concentrations should be reduced to less than 18% in diets fed to pigs during the immediate post-weaning period. Diets should be fed in a liquid form if possible, preferably as fermented liquid feed. Feed intake should be restricted to 75% of ad libitum intake during the initial 2 wk post-weaning to reduce the amount of substrates available to pathogens in the hind gut. The profit from pig production will be maximized if pigs are weaned between 21 and 28 d of age. All-in all-out production should be practiced and pigs should always be weaned into an empty, clean, and disinfected room, preferably at a location separated from the sow farm. Disease pressure and mortality do not necessarily have to increase if no AGP are used, but profits will likely be reduced because costs of preventing diseases in pigs fed diets containing no AGP often are greater than the cost of AGP.