bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recruitment of CCR6-Expressing Th17 Cells by CCL 20 Secreted from IL-1β-, TNF-α-, and IL-17A-Stimulated Endometriotic Stromal Cells
Authors: Hirata Tetsuya , Osuga Yutaka , Takamura Masashi , Kodama Ako , Hirota Yasushi , Koga Kaori , Yoshino Osamu , Harada Miyuki , Takemura Yuri , Yano Tetsu , Taketani Yuji
Published: September 2010

In a novel paradigm of T cell differentiation, type 17 T helper (Th17) cells may play a significant role in endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory disease. However, the mechanism regulating the accumulation of Th17 cells in endometriotic tissues remains unknown. We hypothesized that Th17 cells migrate to endometriotic tissues through an interaction of the chemokine CC chemokine ligand (CCL)20 and its receptor CCR6. Using endometriotic tissues from women with endometriosis, we demonstrated, by flow cytometry, that Th17 cells in endometriotic tissues express CC chemokine receptor (CCR)6. Immunohistochemistry also revealed that CCL20 was expressed in the epithelial cells and stromal cells beneath the epithelium of endometriotic tissues. CCR6+ cells were small and round and scattered in the stroma in which abundant CCL20+ cells were detected. CCL20 caused selective migration of Th17 cells in the peripheral blood in a migration assay. IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-17A increased the secretion of CCL20 in cultured endometriotic stromal cells. Inhibitors of p38- and p42/44-MAPKs, and stress-activated protein kinase/c-Jun kinase suppressed the secretion of CCL20 increased by IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-17A. This suggests that the CCL20/CCR6 system is involved in the migration of Th17 cells to endometriotic tissues and that proinflammatory cytokines contribute to the development of endometriosis via up-regulation of CCL20 secretion from endometriotic stromal cells.
Ldlr−/− Mice Display Decreased Susceptibility to Western-Type Diet-Induced Obesity Due to Increased Thermogenesis
Authors: Ngai Ying Fai , Quong Whitney L. , Glier Melissa B. , Glavas Maria M. , Babich Sandra L. , Innis Sheila M. , Kieffer Timothy J. , Gibson William T.
Published: September 2010

The low-density lipoprotein receptor (Ldlr) is a key molecule involved with lipid clearance. The Ldlr−/− mouse has been used extensively as a model for studying atherosclerosis. This study sought to characterize the energy balance phenotype of Ldlr−/− mice with respect to weight gain, body composition, energy expenditure (EE), glucose homeostasis, and leptin sensitivity. Adult Ldlr−/− mice and Ldlr+/+ controls on a C57Bl/6J background were fed either a chow or a high-fat, high-sucrose Western-type diet (WTD) for eight wk. Physiological studies of food intake, EE, activity, insulin sensitivity, and leptin responsiveness were performed. The effect of these diet interventions on circulating leptin and on leptin gene expression was also examined. On the chow diet, Ldlr−/− mice had lower EE and higher activity levels relative to controls. On the WTD, Ldlr−/− mice gained less weight relative to Ldlr+/+ mice, specifically gaining less fat mass. Increased thermogenesis in Ldlr−/− mice fed the WTD was detected. Additionally, leptin responsiveness was blunted in chow-fed Ldlr−/− mice, suggesting a novel role for the Ldlr pathway that extends to leptin’s regulation of energy balance. In addition to its known role in lipid transport, these results demonstrate the importance of the Ldlr in energy homeostasis and suggest a direct physiological link between altered lipid transport and energy balance.
Role of Transient Receptor Potential Channels in Cholecystokinin-Induced Activation of Cultured Vagal Afferent Neurons
Authors: Zhao Huan , Simasko Steven M.
Published: September 2010

Cholecystokinin (CCK), an endogenous brain-gut peptide, is released after food intake and promotes the process of satiation via activation of the vagus nerve. In vitro, CCK increases cytosolic calcium concentrations and produces membrane depolarization in a subpopulation of vagal afferent neurons. However, the specific mechanisms and ionic conductances that mediate these effects remain unclear. In this study we used calcium imaging, electrophysiological measurements, and single cell PCR analysis on cultured vagal afferent neurons to address this issue directly. A cocktail of blockers of voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCC) failed to block CCK-induced calcium responses. In addition, SKF96365, a compound that blocks both VDCC and the C family of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, also failed to prevent responses to CCK. Together these results suggest that CCK-induced calcium influx is not subsequent to the membrane depolarization. Ruthenium red, an inhibitor of the TRPV family and TRPA1, blocked both depolarizing responses to CCK and CCK-induced calcium increases, but had no effect on the KCl-induced calcium response. Selective block of TRPV1 and TRPA1 channels with SB366791 and HC030031, respectively, had minor effects on the CCK-induced response. Application of 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, an activator of select TRPV channels but a blocker of several TRPC channels, either had no effect or enhanced the responses to CCK. Further, results from PCR experiments revealed a significant clustering of TRPV2-5 in neurons expressing CCK1 receptors. These observations demonstrate that CCK-induced increases in cytosolic calcium and membrane depolarization of vagal afferent neurons are likely mediated by TRPV channels, excluding TRPV1.
Evidence of Evolutionary Conservation of Function between the Thyroxine Transporter Oatp1c1 and Major Facilitator Superfamily Members
Authors: Westholm Daniel E. , Marold Jacob D. , Viken Kevin J. , Duerst Alicia H. , Anderson Grant W. , Rumbley Jon N.
Published: September 2010

Organic anion transporting polypeptide 1c1 (Oatp1c1) is a high-affinity T4 transporter expressed in brain barrier cells. To identify Oatp1c1 amino acid residues critical for T4 transport, consensus membrane topology was predicted and a three-dimensional Oatp1c1 structure was generated using the known structures of major facilitator superfamily (MFS) transporters, glycerol 3-phosphate transporter, lactose permease, and the multidrug transporter Escherichia coli multidrug resistance protein D as templates. A total of nine amino acid mutations were generated based on amino acid conservation, localization to putative transmembrane domains, and side chain functionality. Mutant constructs were transiently transfected into human embryonic kidney 293 cells and assessed for plasma membrane localization and the capacity to transport substrate 125I-T4. Wild-type Oatp1c1, R601S, P609A, W277A/W278A, W277F/W278F, G399A/G409A, and G399L/G409L were all expressed at the plasma membrane. Wild-type Oatp1c1 and W277F/W278F displayed biphasic T4 transport kinetics, albeit the mutant did so with an approximately 10-fold increase in high-affinity Michaelis constant. The W277A/W278A mutation abolished Oatp1c1 T4 transport. G399A/G409A and G399V/G409V mutants displayed near wild-type activity in an uptake screen but exhibited diminished T4 transport activity at high-substrate concentrations, suggesting a substrate binding site collapse or inability to convert between input and output states. Finally, transmembrane domain 11 mutants R601S and P609A displayed partial T4 transport activity with significantly reduced maximum velocities and higher Michaelis constant. Arg601 is functionally strongly conserved with members of the MFS whose structures and function have been extensively studied. These data provide the experimental foundation for mapping Oatp1c1 substrate binding sites and reveal evolutionary conservation with bacterial MFS transporter members.
Epididymal Fat Is Necessary for Spermatogenesis, but not Testosterone Production or Copulatory Behavior
Authors: Chu Ye , Huddleston Gloria G. , Clancy Andrew N. , Harris Ruth B. S. , Bartness Timothy J.
Published: September 2010

Surgical removal of the epididymal white adipose tissue (EWAT) depot (lipectomy; EWATx) in laboratory rats or mice decreases spermatogenesis, but this phenomenal finding has not been investigated in depth. Specifically, detailed histology, neuroendocrine profiles, copulatory behavior, lipectomy of other WAT depots, rescue by autologous EWAT transplants, or tests whether this EWATx effect is due to disruption of testes innervation occurring during EWATx have not been performed. Therefore, in the first study, we performed EWATx in male Syrian hamsters and attempted to rescue spermatogenesis by transplanting the removed EWAT to the animal’s subcutaneous dorsum, removed comparable or larger amounts of non-gonadal WAT [inguinal WAT (IWAT)] and conducted mating behavior tests. In a second study we conducted detailed testicular histology and assayed serum LH, FSH, and testosterone (T). In a third study, we surgically denervated the testes without removing EWAT and compared testicular histology with that of EWATx or sham surgery. We found that EWATx, but not IWATx, virtually eliminated spermatogenesis producing a marked decrease in size of the seminiferous tubule cellular lining including the Sertoli cells and spermatogonia that could not be rescued by autologous EWAT transplant to the subcutaneous dorsum. EWATx did not change serum LH or T concentrations but approximately doubled serum FSH concentrations. EWATx did not alter copulatory behavior but resulted in aspermatic ejaculate. Selective surgical testicular denervation did not affect spermatogenesis. Collectively, these results suggest the presence of a local, but currently unidentified, growth and/or nutritive factor from EWAT that promotes spermatogenesis.
Tracing Hydrocarbons Migration Pathway in Carbonate Rock in Lunnan-Tahe Oilfield
Authors: Zhou Xinyuan , Jiao Weiwei , Han Jianfa , Zhang Jie , Yu Hongfeng , Wu Lin
Published: September 2010

Tracing hydrocarbons migration pathway is of great significance in studying hydrocarbon accumulation process and predicting hydrocarbon bearing potential of exploration targets, but it is very difficult to trace the hydrocarbons migration pathway in ancient carbonate formations due to strong heterogeneity. In this paper, a combination of geological and geochemical methods is used to discuss the hydrocarbons migration pathway in Ordovician carbonate rock of the Lunnan-Tahe Oilfield in the Tarim Basin. Deep faults and karst unconformity constitute the hydrocarbons passage framework in this area. High angle fractures caused by tectonic stress, pores and cavities formed by karstification played an important role in the connectivity and continuity of this network system. Core observation and thin-section identification revealed that the karsted holes communicating with fractures in the geologic history were the effective pathway for hydrocarbons migration in carbonate formation. The marks of hydrocarbon migration were left in these kinds of fractures and cavities, which were the direct evidence of hydrocarbon migration. The regularities of geochemical parameters of crude oil and hydrocarbon inclusion could effectively indicate the direction of hydrocarbon migration. It could be seen from the section analysis results in this paper that the features of vertical migration in a single well are apparent due to fracture communication; while in the lateral direction, the network system in which fractures and cavities are interconnected constitutes the main lateral pathway for hydrocarbons migration. Analysis results of such wells as Lunnan 63, Jiefang 127, Lunnan 39 and Lunnan 44 indicate that hydrocarbons migration direction was from bottom to top in the vertical direction and from south to north and from east to west in the lateral direction.
The concentric all-polyethylene Exeter acetabular component in primary total hip replacement
Authors: Veitch S. W. , Whitehouse S. L. , Howell J. R , Hubble M. J. W. , Gie G. A. , Timperley A. J.
Published: September 2010

We report the outcome of the flangeless, cemented all-polyethylene Exeter acetabular component at a mean of 14.6 years (10 to 17) after operation. Of the 263 hips in 243 patients, 122 prostheses are still in situ; 112 patients (119 hips) have died, 18 hips have been revised, and three patients (four hips) were lost to follow-up. Radiographs at the final review were available for 110 of the 122 surviving hips. There were acetabular radiolucent lines in 54 hips (49%). Two acetabular components had migrated but neither patient required revision. The Kaplan-Meier survivorship at 15 years with 61 hips at risk with revision for any cause as the endpoint was 89.9% (95% confidence interval (CI) 84.6 to 95.2) and for aseptic loosening of the acetabular component or lysis 91.7% (95% CI 86.6 to 96.8). In 210 hips with a diagnosis of primary osteoarthritis, survivorship with revision for any cause as the endpoint was 93.2% (95% CI 88.1 to 98.3), and for aseptic loosening of the acetabular component 95.0% (95% CI 90.3 to 99.7).

The cemented all-polyethylene Exeter acetabular component has an excellent long-term survivorship.
Anteroposterior positioning of the tibial component and its effect on the mechanics of patellofemoral contact
Authors: Didden K. , Luyckx T. , Bellemans J. , Labey L. , Innocenti B. , Vandenneucker H.
Published: September 2010

The biomechanics of the patellofemoral joint can become disturbed during total knee replacement by alterations induced by the position and shape of the different prosthetic components. The role of the patella and femoral trochlea has been well studied. We have examined the effect of anterior or posterior positioning of the tibial component on the mechanisms of patellofemoral contact in total knee replacement. The hypothesis was that placing the tibial component more posteriorly would reduce patellofemoral contact stress while providing a more efficient lever arm during extension of the knee.

We studied five different positions of the tibial component using a six degrees of freedom dynamic knee simulator system based on the Oxford rig, while simulating an active knee squat under physiological loading conditions. The patellofemoral contact force decreased at a mean of 2.2% for every millimetre of posterior translation of the tibial component. Anterior positions of the tibial component were associated with elevation of the patellofemoral joint pressure, which was particularly marked in flexion > 90°.

From our results we believe that more posterior positioning of the tibial component in total knee replacement would be beneficial to the patellofemoral joint.
The use of minimally invasive techniques in multi-level surgery for children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Thompson N. , Stebbins J. , Seniorou M. , Wainwright A. M. , Newham D. J. , Theologis T. N.
Published: September 2010

This study compares the initial outcomes of minimally invasive techniques for single-event multi-level surgery with conventional single-event multi-level surgery. The minimally invasive techniques included derotation osteotomies using closed corticotomy and fixation with titanium elastic nails and percutaneous lengthening of muscles where possible. A prospective cohort study of two matched groups was undertaken. Ten children with diplegic cerebral palsy with a mean age of ten years six months (7.11 to 13.9) had multi-level minimally invasive surgery and were matched for ambulatory level and compared with ten children with a mean age of 11 years four months (7.9 to 14.4) who had conventional single-event multi-level surgery. Gait kinematics, the Gillette Gait Index, isometric muscle strength and gross motor function were assessed before and 12 months after operation.

The minimally invasive group had significantly reduced operation time and blood loss with a significantly improved time to mobilisation. There were no complications intra-operatively or during hospitalisation in either group. There was significant improvement in gait kinematics and the Gillette Gait Index in both groups with no difference between them. There was a trend to improved muscle strength in the multi-level group. There was no significant difference in gross motor function between the groups.

We consider that minimally invasive single-event multi-level surgery can be achieved safely and effectively with significant advantages over conventional techniques in children with diplegic cerebral palsy.
Stress-shielding of the proximal femur using an extensively porous-coated femoral component without allograft in revision surgery
Authors: Garcia-Cimbrelo E. , Garcia-Rey E. , Cruz-Pardos A. , Madero R.
Published: September 2010

Revision surgery of the hip was performed on 114 hips using an extensively porous-coated femoral component. Of these, 95 hips (94 patients) had a mean follow-up of 10.2 years (5 to 17). No cortical struts were used and the cortical index and the femoral cortical width were measured at different levels.

There were two revisions for aseptic loosening. Survivorship at 12 years for all causes of failure was 96.9% (95% confidence interval 93.5 to 100) in the best-case scenario. Fibrous or unstable fixation was associated with major bone defects. The cortical index (p = 0.045) and the lateral cortical thickness (p = 0.008) decreased at the proximal level over time while the medial cortex increased (p = 0.001) at the proximal and distal levels. An increase in the proximal medial cortex was found in patients with an extended transtrochanteric osteotomy (p = 0.026) and in those with components shorter than 25 cm (p = 0.008).

The use of the extensively porous-coated femoral component can provide a solution for difficult cases in revision surgery. Radiological bony ingrowth is common. Although without clinical relevance at the end of follow-up, the thickness of the medial femoral cortex often increased while that of the lateral cortex decreased. In cases in which a shorter component was used and in those undertaken using an extended trochanteric osteotomy, there was a greater increase in thickness of the femoral cortex over time.
Resection of a physeal bar under computer-assisted guidance
Authors: Kang H. G. , Yoon S. J. , Kim J. R.
Published: September 2010

Excision of a physeal bar and filling the space with interposition material may allow resumption of normal growth. Both the extent and the location of the bar and the amount of growth remaining from physis must be determined. Computer-assisted surgery is being used increasingly in various fields of orthopaedics. We describe the management of a patient with premature physeal arrest of the right distal tibia in which resection of a physeal bar was achieved under real-time three-dimensional intra-operative monitoring by computer-assisted navigation.

The advantage of this method over other means of imaging is that intra-operative identification can increase the accuracy of resection of the bar.
Late dislocation of the hip following normal neonatal clinical and ultrasound examination
Authors: Jaiswal A. , Starks I. , Kiely N. T.
Published: September 2010

We present a case of late dislocation of the hip in a 30-month-old girl. Her hip was clinically stable at birth and an ultrasound scan at six weeks was normal. She had no additional risk factors for developmental dysplasia. She underwent anterior open reduction with a femoral osteotomy.
The use of fibrin glue in surgery of the knee
Authors: Patel S. , Rodriguez-Merchan E. C. , Haddad F. S.
Published: September 2010

Fibrin glue, also known as fibrin sealant, is now established as a haemostatic agent in surgery, but its role in orthopaedic surgery is neither well known nor clearly defined. Although it was originally used over 100 years ago, concerns about transmission of disease meant that it fell from favour. It is also available as a slow-release drug delivery system and as a substrate for cellular growth and tissue engineering. Consequently, it has the potential to be used in a number of ways in orthopaedic surgery. The purpose of this review is to address its use in surgery of the knee in which it appears to offer great promise.
The patellar thinning osteotomy in patellofemoral arthritis
Authors: Vaquero J. , Calvo J. A. , Chana F. , Perez-Mañanes R.
Published: September 2010

Isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis can be a disabling disease. When conservative treatment fails, surgical options can be unpredictable and may be considered too aggressive for middle-aged and active people. We analysed the clinical and radiological results of a new coronal osteotomy involving thinning of the patella in a selected group of patients with isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis. Since 1991, 31 patients (35 knees) have been treated, of whom 34 were available for follow-up at a mean of 9.1 years. The Knee Society Score, the Patellar score and the Short-form-36 questionnaire were used for clinical evaluation. We also examined the radiological features to confirm bone consolidation and assess the progression of osteoarthritis. A significant improvement in the functional scores and radiological parameters was noted. All patients except one were satisfied with the operation. Radiological progression of the patellofemoral osteoarthritis was slowed but radiological femorotibial osteoarthritis progressed in 23 (65%) cases, with a total knee replacement becoming necessary in four cases without technical problems in resurfacing the patella. We compared the results with other forms of surgical treatment reported in the literature.

This treatment offers good clinical and radiological results, presenting an alternative method of managing patellofemoral osteoarthritis.
A comparison of hemiarthroplasty with total hip replacement for displaced intracapsular fracture of the femoral neck
Authors: van den Bekerom M. P. J. , Hilverdink E. F. , Sierevelt I. N. , Reuling E. M. B. P. , Schnater J. M. , Bonke H. , Goslings J. C. , van Dijk C. N. , Raaymakers E. L. F. B.
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to analyse the functional outcome after a displaced intracapsular fracture of the femoral neck in active patients aged over 70 years without osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis of the hip, randomised to receive either a hemiarthroplasty or a total hip replacement (THR). We studied 252 patients of whom 47 (19%) were men, with a mean age of 81.1 years (70.2 to 95.6). They were randomly allocated to be treated with either a cemented hemiarthroplasty (137 patients) or cemented THR (115 patients). At one- and five-year follow-up no differences were observed in the modified Harris hip score, revision rate of the prosthesis, local and general complications, or mortality. The intra-operative blood loss was lower in the hemiarthroplasty group (7% > 500 ml) than in the THR group (26% > 500 ml) and the duration of surgery was longer in the THR group (28% > 1.5 hours versus 12% > 1.5 hours). There were no dislocations of any bipolar hemiarthroplasty and eight dislocations of a THR during follow-up.

Because of a higher intra-operative blood loss (p < 0.001), an increased duration of the operation (p < 0.001) and a higher number of early and late dislocations (p = 0.002), we do not recommend THR as the treatment of choice in patients aged ≥ 70 years with a fracture of the femoral neck in the absence of advanced radiological osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis of the hip.
Bacterial cleanup: lateral diffusion of hydrophobic molecules through protein channel walls
Authors: van den Berg Bert
Published: September 2010

The outer membrane (OM) of Gram-negative bacteria forms a very efficient barrier against the permeation of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds, owing to the presence of lipopolysaccharides on the outside of the cell. Although much is known about the OM passage of hydrophilic molecules, it is much less clear how hydrophobic molecules cross this barrier. Members of the FadL channel family, which are widespread in Gram-negative bacteria, are so far the only proteins with an established role in the uptake of hydrophobic molecules across the OM. Recent structural and biochemical research has shown that these channels operate according to a unique lateral diffusion mechanism, in which the substrate moves from the lumen of the barrel into the OM via an unusual opening in the wall of the barrel. Understanding how hydrophobic molecules cross the OM is not only of fundamental importance but could also have applications in the design of novel, hydrophobic drugs, biofuel production and the generation of more efficient bacterial biodegrader strains.
Water Characteristic Curves of Recycled Materials
Authors: Rahardjo H. , Vilayvong K. , Leong E. C.
Published: September 2010

Water characteristic curves (WCCs) of recycled materials are not well researched. In this study, the WCCs of three specimens from recycled concrete aggregate, three specimens from reclaimed asphalt pavement, and one specimen from spent copper slag are studied. The objective of this study is to obtain WCCs of the recycled materials by using the Tempe cell pressure extractor for standard soil-water characteristic curve determination. Properties of drying WCC of the recycled materials were determined by using a best fit WCC equation. The results showed air-entry value of the recycled materials with high gravel content that occurred at low matric suction below 1.0 kPa and a steep WCC. The results from the WCC and saturated coefficient of permeability tests were incorporated into a statistical model to indirectly predict the permeability function of the recycled materials. The permeability functions of the recycled materials are also presented.
Accuracy of several parameters of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activity in predicting before surgery the metabolic effects of the removal of an adrenal incidentaloma
Authors: Eller-Vainicher Cristina , Morelli Valentina , Salcuni Antonio Stefano , Battista Claudia , Torlontano Massimo , Coletti Francesca , Iorio Laura , Cairoli Elisa , Beck-Peccoz Paolo , Arosio Maura , Ambrosi Bruno , Scillitani Alfredo , Chiodini Iacopo
Published: September 2010

Context

It is unknown whether the metabolic effects of the removal of an adrenal incidentaloma (AI) can be predicted by the assessment of cortisol hypersecretion before surgery.

Objective

To evaluate the accuracy of several criteria of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis activity in predicting the metabolic outcome after adrenalectomy.

Design

Retrospective longitudinal study.

Patients

In 55 surgically treated AI patients (Group 1) before surgery and in 53 nontreated AI patients (Group 2) at the baseline, urinary free cortisol (UFC), cortisol after 1 mg overnight dexamethasone-suppression test (1 mg-DST), ACTH, and midnight serum cortisol (MSC) were measured. In Groups 1 and 2, metabolic parameters were evaluated before and 29.6±13.8 months after surgery and at the baseline and after 35.2±10.9 months respectively.

Main outcome measures

The improvement/worsening of weight, blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol levels (endpoints) was defined by the presence of a >5% weight decrease/increase and following the European Society of Cardiology or the ATP III criteria respectively. The accuracy of UFC, 1 mg-DST, ACTH, and MSC, singularly taken or in combination, in predicting the improvement/worsening of ≥2 endpoints was calculated.

Results

The presence of ≥2 among UFC>70 μg/24 h (193 nmol/l), ACTH<10 pg/ml (2.2 pmol/l), 1 mg-DST>3.0 μg/dl (83 nmol/l) (UFC–ACTH–DST criterion) had the best accuracy in predicting the endpoints' improvement (sensitivity (SN) 65.2%, specificity (SP) 68.8%) after surgery. In the nontreated AI patients, this criterion predicted the worsening of ≥2 endpoints (SN 55.6%, SP 82.9%).

Conclusions

The UFC–ACTH–DST criterion seems to be the best for predicting the metabolic outcome in surgically treated AI patients.
Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases in Siberian hamsters impedes photostimulated recrudescence of ovaries
Authors: Whited Julie , Shahed Asha , McMichael Carling F , Young Kelly A
Published: September 2010

Exposure of Siberian hamsters to short photoperiod for 14 weeks induces ovarian regression. Subsequent transfer to long photoperiod restores ovarian function, and 2 weeks of photostimulation increases plasma estradiol (E2), antral follicles, and corpora lutea (CL). Because tissue remodeling involved with photostimulated ovarian recrudescence is associated with differential expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), we hypothesized that inhibiting MMP activity using a broad-spectrumin vivoMMP inhibitor, GM6001, would curtail recrudescence. One group of hamsters was placed in long days (LD; 16 h light:8 h darkness) for 16 weeks. Another group was placed in inhibitory short days (SD; 8 h light:16 h darkness) for 14 weeks. A third group was placed in SD for 14 weeks and transferred to LD for 2 weeks to stimulate recrudescence. During weeks 14–16, animals were either not treated or treated daily with i.p. injections of GM6001 (20 mg/kg) or vehicle (DMSO). GM6001 reduced gelatinase activity and decreased immunohistochemical staining for MMP1, MMP2, and MMP3 compared with vehicle. No differences between controls, vehicle, or GM6001 treatment were observed among LD animals, despite a trend toward reduction in CL and E2with GM6001. Although SD reduced ovarian function, photostimulation of transferred controls increased uterine mass, plasma E2, appearance of antral follicles, and CL. With GM6001 treatment, photostimulation failed to increase uterine mass, plasma E2, antral follicles, or CL. These data show, for the first time, thatin vivoGM6001 administration inhibits MMP activity in hamster ovaries during photostimulation, and indicate that this inhibition may impede photostimulated recrudescence of ovaries. This study suggests an intriguing link between MMP activity and return to ovarian function during photostimulated recrudescence.
Effects of Pesticide Use on Semen Quality among Farmers in Rural Areas of Sabah, Malaysia
Authors: Hossain Feroz , Ali Osman , D'souza Urban J.A. , Naing Daw Khin Saw
Published: September 2010

Effects of Pesticide Use on Semen Quality among Farmers in Rural Areas of Sabah, Malaysia: Feroz Hossain, et al. School of Medicine, University Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia

Objectives

To determine the relationship between semen quality and exposure to pesticide residues.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among male farmers from 3 different communities in Sabah, Malaysia. A total of 152 farmers participated in this study of whom 62 farmers had been exposed to either paraquat or malathion or both to varying extents. Questionnaires were designed to record a history of pesticides exposure and other potential risk factors among farmers. All semen samples were collected, processed and analyzed by qualified personnel based on WHO guidelines. Volume, pH, sperm concentration, motility, morphology and WBC count were examined and recorded. The association between pesticide exposure and semen parameters was highly significant.

Results

The mean values of volume, pH, sperm concentration, motility, and WBC count were significantly less in the exposed group than in compared with the non‐exposed group, with p<0.005. Those who were exposed to pesticides had greater risk of having abnormal semen parameters than those in with the non exposed group, with p values of less than 0.05. The comparison between semen qualities such as lower sperm count, motility and higher percentage of sperm abnormality of those exposed to different types of pesticides (paraquat and malathion) showed no significant differences.

Conclusion

The results showed a significant decline in semen quality with a decline in sperm count, motility and higher percent of teratospermia among subjects with pesticide exposure, and those who were exposed to pesticides had significantly 3 to 9 times greater risk of having abnormal semen parameters.
Redo procedures for correction of the aortic valve diseases in infants and children. The Bentall–Konno procedure
Authors: Hartyánszky István , Kollár András , Kassai Imre , Székely Edgár , Ablonczy László , Kádár Krisztina , Szatmári András
Published: September 2010

Súlyos valvularis aortastenosis miatt csecsemőkorban percutan ballondilatációt követően kialakult billentyűelégtelenség korrigálására Ross-műtét történt. A posztoperatív időben fellépett aortagyök infektív endocarditis miatt az aortagyök pótlására homograft-beültetés vált szükségessé. Tizenkét éves korára a kinőtt aortabillentyű elégtelenné vált, az elmeszesedett aortagyök cseréje Bentall szerint műbillentyűs conduittal, a bal kamra kifolyási pályájának Konno szerinti megnagyobbításával vált lehetővé. Az aortabillentyű- és aortagyök-betegségek komplex sebészi kezelést igényelhetnek, és sokszor már csecsemő- és gyermekkorban is sikeresen elvégezhetők. Ilyen típusú műtéti megoldást először végeztek Magyarországon. Orv. Hetil., 2010,41,1712–1715.
Reexpansion pulmonary edema
Authors: Vaskó Attila , Végh Tamás , László István , Takács István , Szilasi Mária , Fülesdi Béla
Published: September 2010

A reexpanziós tüdőödéma (RPE) egy ritkán előforduló kórállapot, amely rendszerint a krónikusan kollabált tüdő reexpanziója után jelentkezik. A klinikai manifesztáció széles skálán mozog a tünetmentes betegtől a halálos kimenetelig, amely utóbbi akár az esetek 20%-ában is előfordulhat. A patofiziológiai háttér komplex és máig nem teljesen tisztázott. Az ismert kockázati tényezők szem előtt tartásával és azok lehetőség szerinti kiküszöbölésével akár el is kerülhető az RPE kialakulása. Ez az összefoglaló megpróbál áttekintést adni a jelenlegi ismereteinkről, az RPE hátteréről, a terápiás lehetőségekről. Orv. Hetil., 2010,41,1708–1711.
Are the flight security measures good for the patients? The “sickurity” problem
Authors: Felkai Péter
Published: September 2010

Az egyre szigorúbb biztonsági intézkedések a repülőtereken az utasokat is egyre súlyosabban érintik. Az életbe léptetett megszorítások (a folyadék, illetve a mozgás korlátozása) felerősíthetik a repülőgéppel utazók szervezetében fellépő káros élettani folyamatokat, a legújabb vizsgálati eljárások (például a teljestest-szken) pedig – a kétségtelen etikai és morális aggályok mellett – olyan patológiai folyamatokat indíthatnak el, amelyek későbbi hatása még nem teljesen ismert. Fokozottan igaz ez arra az utazóra, aki útja során betegszik meg vagy éri sérülés, és emiatt nem folytathatja útját. Az ilyen utazót – megfelelő előkészítés után – haza kell szállítani. A hazaszállítás leggyakrabban a menetrendszerű repülőgépen történik, fekvő beteg esetében a kabinban elhelyezett hordágyon, egészségügyi kísérettel. Ez a hazaszállítási mód több biztonsági problémát vet fel: a beteg ellenőrzésén kívül a kísérő egészségügyi felszerelésének ellenőrzését is. Az orvosi táska ugyanis több olyan eszközt, gyógyszert tartalmaz, amelyek repülőgépre vitele tilos. Egységes rendelkezés hiányában ezeket a problémákat a biztonsági személyzet változatos módon kezeli: a skála az empatikus hozzáállástól a kategorikus tiltásig terjed. Szükséges tehát egy olyan szakmai állásfoglalás, amely figyelembe veszi a repülésbiztonság (security) mellett a beteg ember út közbeni ellátásának biztonságát (sickurity) is, és ezáltal kiküszöböli a beteg és kísérőjének kiszolgáltatottságát. Ugyanez érvényes a fogyatékkal élők utazására is. A közlemény nemcsak a nehézségeket veti fel, hanem megpróbálja feloldani az utasbiztonság és a betegbiztonság egymásnak sokszor ellentmondó követelményeit, az úgynevezett „sickurity” problémát. Orv. Hetil., 2010,41,1702–1707.
Immediate Single Tooth Replacement With Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft Using Platform Switching Implants: A Case Series
Authors: Chung Seunghwan , Rungcharassaeng Kitichai , Kan Joseph Y. K. , Roe Phillip , Lozada Jaime L.
Published: September 2010

This case series evaluated the facial gingival stability following single immediate tooth replacement in conjunction with subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG). Implant success rate and peri-implant tissue response were also reported. Ten patients (6 male, 4 female), with a mean age of 52.1 (range  =  22.7 to 67.1) years, underwent immediate implant placement and provisionalization with SCTG and were evaluated clinically and radiographically at presurgery (T0), at the time of immediate tooth replacement and SCTG (T1), and 3 months (T2), 6 months (T3), and 12 months (T4) after surgery. Data were analyzed using the Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-ranks tests at the significance level of α  =  .05. At 1 year, 9 of 10 implants remained osseointegrated with the overall mean marginal bone change of −0.31 mm and a mean facial gingival level change of −0.05 mm. The modified plaque index scores showed that patients were able to maintain a good level of hygiene throughout the study. The papilla index score indicated that at T4, more than 50% of the papilla fill was observed in 89% of all sites. When proper 3-dimensional implant position is achieved and bone graft is placed into the implant-socket gap, favorable success rate and peri-implant tissue response of platform switching implants can be achieved following immediate tooth replacement in conjunction with subepithelial connective tissue graft.
Social Representations of the Wheelchair for People with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Costa Viviane de Souza Pinho , Melo Marcia Regina Antonietto Costa , Garanhani Mara Lúcia , Fujisawa Dirce Shizuko
Published: September 2010

In seeking to understand the social representation of the use of the wheelchair through the analysis of interviews with ten people who have suffered spinal cord injury, the construction of five representations was elaborated. The phenomenon experienced regarding the wheelchair provided a route of meanings and symbologies: essential equipment, after the person perceive the inability to walk; a symbol of disability when the person experienced functional dependence; means of locomotion and transport after the rescue of their potential functional; becoming an integral part or all of their body and, finally, the concept of autonomy on four wheels by adjusting to their new ability to walk emerges. The wheelchair as an extension of the modified body for spinal cord injury, returns them the right of locomotion, presents them not only with autonomy for various acts of life, but also restores their dignity, so essential to human life.
Attention Demands in the Workplace and the Capacity to Direct Attention of Nurses
Authors: Roscani Alessandra Nazareth Caine Pereira , Guirardello Edinêis de Britto
Published: September 2010

This was a descriptive, correlational study designed to evaluate the capacity to direct attention (CDA) of the nurse and to verify an association between the CDA and attention demand situations. For data collection the instruments used were: the Attentional Function Index and the Directed Attention Demands. The participants were 169 nurses of a teaching hospital in the State of São Paulo. The mean perception of performance or CDA was 60.4 which differed between the variables: unit of work (p=0.013), work hours (p=0.044), presence of health problems (p=0.026) and problems of a psychological nature (p=0.005). There was a negative association between the situations of demand and CDA (r = - 0.294, p<0.0001). It was concluded that nurses showed good CDA, which was related to some professional and demographic variables, and the higher the attentional demands, the lower the CDA.
Factors Associated with Smoking in Pregnancy
Authors: Motta Giordana de Cássia Pinheiro da , Echer Isabel Cristina , Lucena Amália de Fátima
Published: September 2010

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to identify factors related to smoking during pregnancy. The sample included 267 puerperae hospitalized in the maternity unit of a university hospital in Porto Alegre/RS. The data were collected through a self-applied instrument and statistically analyzed. The majority of the puerperae (51.3%) were between 18 and 25 years old, 55.4% were nonsmokers, 25.5% were smokers, 19.1% had recently ceased smoking (in abstinence). The nonsmokers had more consultations than the smokers and the abstinent smokers (p=0.025). The number of women who had more than one child was higher among smokers than among nonsmokers and abstinent smokers (p=0.002). Women were more likely to stop smoking before pregnancy when they had a partner who was a nonsmoker (p=0.007). Several factors influence smoking and smoking cessation and these are important in prenatal interventions aimed at pregnant women and their partners.
Efeito de supressão das emissões otoacústicas evocadas por estímulo transiente em lactentes de risco para perda auditiva nascidos pré-termo
Authors: Amorim Aline Mizozoe de , Lewis Doris Ruthy , Rodrigues Gabriela Ribeiro Ivo , Fiorini Ana Claudia , Azevedo Marisa Frasson de
Published: September 2010

OBJETIVO: verificar a ocorrência e a magnitude do efeito de supressão das emissões otoacústicas evocadas por estímulo transiente, em lactentes nascidos pré-termo, com indicadores de risco para perda auditiva. MÉTODOS: a supressão das emissões otoacústicas evocadas por estímulo transiente foi realizada em 15 lactentes nascidos pré-termo. O equipamento utilizado foi o ILO USB II V6 Clinical OAE, de marca Ododynamics. O estímulo clique linear foi apresentado a 60 dB pe NPS (± 5) e o ruído contralateral (ruído branco) a 60 dB NPS (± 5). RESULTADOS: Dos 15 lactentes, apenas um não apresentou supressão bilateralmente. Dentre os 14, quatro não apresentaram supressão na orelha esquerda. A ocorrência do efeito de supressão foi de 93,3% na população estudada, sendo 71,4% de efeito bilateral e 28,6% de efeito unilateral. Os resultados indicaram diferença estatisticamente significante entre as orelhas. Não foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significantes com relação as variáveis idade atual e idade gestacional. Os lactentes do sexo masculino apresentaram respostas maiores quando comparados aos do sexo feminino. CONCLUSÕES: a maioria da população estudada apresentou efeito de supressão das emissões otoacústicas. O ruído branco apresentado contralateralmente reduziu o nível de resposta das EOAT, demonstrando a participação do sistema eferente medial no efeito de supressão. As respostas foram diferentes segundo as variáveis lado da orelha e sexo, sendo maiores na orelha direita e no sexo masculino.
Novas perspectivas em comunicação suplementar e/ou alternativa a partir da análise de periódicos internacionais
Authors: Cesa Carla Ciceri , Ramos-Souza Ana Paula , Kessler Themis Maria
Published: September 2010

TEMA: A Comunicação Suplementar e/ou Alternativa (CSA) é uma área do conhecimento da prática clínica, educacional e de pesquisa que favorece a qualidade de vida de seus usuários e familiares. OBJETIVO: propor diretrizes de intervenção e pesquisa na área de CSA a partir da identificação e síntese descritiva de artigos publicados em periódicos indexados em bases de dados eletrônicas internacionais, quanto à temática comunicação suplementar e/ou alternativa, abrangendo pesquisas experimentais, relatos de atendimento individual e/ou em grupo, estudos de casos que incluíssem sujeitos com paralisia cerebral ou com problemas neurológicos não definidos e/ou com retardo mental. CONCLUSÃO: A individualização das práticas quanto ao design, relevância e velocidade do processamento da informação e o processo de inclusão da família e demais parceiros conversacionais são fundamentais ao sucesso na intervenção, generalização e manutenção de uso da prancha de comunicação suplementar e/ou alternativa em contextos formais e informais. A prescrição individualizada dos recursos da área de CSA conforme características físicas, mentais, psíquicas, cognitivas e lingüísticas do usuário tem impacto positivo na sua qualidade de vida e na de seus familiares. Portanto, recomenda-se a introdução o mais breve possível dos recursos terapêuticos da área da comunicação suplementar e/ou alternativa para sujeitos com oralidade restrita e/ou ausente.
Expression of type I GNRH receptor and in vivo and in vitro GNRH-I effects in corpora lutea of pseudopregnant rabbits
Authors: Zerani Massimo , Parillo Francesco , Brecchia Gabriele , Guelfi Gabriella , Dall'Aglio Cecilia , Lilli Lorena , Maranesi Margherita , Gobbetti Anna , Boiti Cristiano
Published: September 2010

The expression of type I GNRH receptor (GNRHR-I) and the direct role of GNRH-I on corpora lutea (CL) function were studied in the pseudopregnant rabbit model. Immunohistochemistry evidenced GNRHR-I and GNRH-I in luteal cells at early (day 4 pseudopregnancy)-, mid (day 9)-, and late (day 13)-luteal stages. Real-time RT-PCR and western blotting revealed GNRHR-I mRNA and protein at the three luteal stages. Buserelin in vivo treatment at days 9 and 13 decreased plasma progesterone levels for 48 and 24 h respectively. In in vitro cultured CL, buserelin reduced progesterone secretion, increased prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) secretion and cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activities at days 9 and 13, and decreased PGE2 at day 13. Co-incubation with antagonists for GNRH-I (antide), inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3, 2-amino-ethoxydiphenylborate), and diacylglycerol (DAG, 1-hexadecyl-2-acetyl glycerol) or inhibitors for phospholipase C (PLC, compound 48/80), and protein kinase C (PKC, staurosporine) counteracted the buserelin effects. Buserelin co-incubated with COX inhibitor (acetylsalicylic acid) increased progesterone and decreased PGF2α and NOS activity at days 9 and 13, whereas co-incubation with NOS inhibitor (N-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester) increased progesterone at the same luteal stages. These results suggest that GNRHR-I is constitutively expressed in rabbit CL independently of luteal stage, whereas GNRH-I down-regulates directly CL progesterone production via PGF2α at mid- and late-luteal stages of pseudopregnancy, utilizing its cognate type I receptor with a post-receptorial mechanism that involves PLC, IP3, DAG, PKC, COX-2, and NOS.
Principles of the recovery and reuse of corporate clothing
Authors: Russell Stephen J. , Morley Nick , Tipper Matthew J. , Drivas Ioannis , Ward Garth D.
Published: September 2010

It is estimated that less than 10% of the corporate clothing consumed in the UK is recycled or reused at the end of life and that around 10 000 t is landfilled. This represents a small but significant part of the total 1·1 million tonnes of textile material that is currently sent for disposal. Specific barriers to the reuse of corporate clothing include the security and corporate identity risks associated with reusing garments that carry distinctive insignia. Currently, because of the ways in which such insignia are attached to the underlying fabric they cannot be economically removed at the end of life. This situation reflects the fact that the majority of garments, including those produced for high-volume consumer markets, are principally designed for the point of sale and the use phase, with little concurrent design consideration given to promoting options for recycling and reuse at the end of life. Garment components are also difficult to disassemble because of their constructional complexity. These issues directly impact on both the economic value and likelihood of down-cycling or landfill disposal at the end of life. In the context of design for disassembly new approaches are being developed that facilitate the rapid detachment of insignia (e.g. emblems, logos and labels) from corporate clothing at the end of life to enable increased levels of re-use and/or remanufacture.
The karez of the Sauran region of Central Asia
Authors: Sala R. , Deom J. M. , Clarke D.
Published: September 2010

A large number of lines of water collection wells were identified by aerial surveys in the arid region near the ancient city of Sauran on the Middle Syr Darya (South Kazakhstan, Central Asia). They are locally called karez, which in Persian means ‘water uplift’. Initially these were assumed to be qanat, a water collection and distribution system that is widespread in the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia. Recent surveys discovered more than 100 km of such lines in the Sauran area. The most surprising discovery was that there was no evidence of galleries that might have collapsed due to poor construction or maintenance. The excavations of a series of these wells are described and a new model for water transport and delivery is proposed that takes advantage of the local hydrogeology. The study has historical significance for the reconstruction of water and land use in the Turkestan oasis during the last 2000 years; and the rediscovery of this forgotten technique could have economic significance for modern land reclamation in desert zones.