bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efeitos de duas técnicas de incentivo respiratório na mobilidade toracoabdominal após cirurgia abdominal alta
Authors: Trevisan Maria Elaine , Soares Juliana Corrêa , Rondinel Tatiana Zacarias
Published: March 2012

A cirurgia abdominal alta está associada a um risco elevado de complicações pulmonares que podem ser reduzidas pelo uso criterioso de manobras terapêuticas visando a expansão pulmonar. O objetivo foi comparar duas técnicas de incentivo respiratório na recuperação da dinâmica toracoabdominal em pacientes submetidos à cirurgia abdominal alta. O grupo de estudo experimental foi constituído por 16 pacientes internados na Clínica Cirúrgica do Hospital Universitário de Santa Maria distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos: o grupo 1 foi constituído por dez pacientes que usaram o dispositivo Voldyne e o grupo 2, por seis pacientes submetidos ao padrão ventilatório com inspiração fracionada em três tempos. A expansibilidade toracoabdominal foi avaliada por cirtometria antes da cirurgia e no 1º, 3º¸ e 5º dias do pós-operatório (PO). Observou-se redução significativa dos valores de cirtometria no 1º PO que, gradualmente, foram sendo recuperados, não mais havendo diferença significativa no 5o PO em relação aos valores pré-operatórios em ambos os grupos. O grupo 1 obteve significativamente melhores índices de recuperação da mobilidade toracoabdominal do que o grupo 2. Também o tempo de recuperação do grupo 1 atingiu médias mais elevadas durante todo o período de PO investigado. Embora ambas as técnicas utilizadas fossem efetivas, o incentivo inspiratório por meio do Voldyne mostrou melhores resultados na recuperação da expansibilidade pulmonar após cirurgia abdominal alta.
Influência da circunferência abdominal sobre o desempenho funcional de idosas
Authors: Campanha-Versiani Luciana , Silveira Érica Cristina Batista Ruas da , Pimenta Marcella Carvalhaes , Alvarenga Sthefanie Gosling , Parentoni Adriana Netto , Ribeiro-Samora Giane Amorim , Cunha Filho Inácio Teixeira
Published: March 2012

O objetivo do estudo foi comparar o desempenho funcional de idosas segundo a medida de suas circunfêrencias abdominais (CA). Foram avaliadas 48 idosas, divididas nos grupos 1, com CA>88 cm, e grupo 2, de CA<88 cm. A funcionalidade foi avaliada pelo teste de caminhada de seis minutos (TC6') e pelo teste de desempenho físico modificado (TDFM), não-dependente de condicionamento cardiovascular. O grupo 1, cujos valores de peso e índice de massa corporal foram estatisticamente superiores (p<0,05) aos do grupo 2, percorreu distância média menor, quando comparado ao grupo 2 (p<0,05), e obteve escores médios inferiores no TDFM (p<0,05). Os dados mostram que mulheres idosas com circunferência abdominal superior a 88 cm tiveram pior desempenho nos testes funcionais, sugerindo que a obesidade abdominal pode contribuir para o declínio funcional precoce e conseqüente incapacidade nessa população.
Análise comparativa da função respiratória de indivíduos hígidos em solo e na água
Authors: Sá Natalia Cristina de , Banzato Talyta Carone , Sasseron Ana Beatriz , Ferracini Júnior Luiz Carlos , Fregadolli Patrícia , Figueiredo Luciana Castilho de
Published: March 2012

A mensuração da função respiratória oferece informações essenciais para caracterizar anormalidades pulmonares. A pressão hidrostática da água atua no tórax submerso de diversas formas, causando alterações no sistema respiratório. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar comparativamente variáveis que avaliam a função respiratória - volume minuto (Vmin), volume corrente (Vc), capacidade vital (Cvital) e frequência respiratória (FR) - de voluntárias no solo e com o tórax submerso em piscina terapêutica aquecida. A função respiratória de 30 voluntárias saudáveis (20,9±2,1 anos; 1,64±0,07 m; 58,8±9,2 kg; índice de massa corporal 21,78±2,63 kg/m²) foi avaliada por meio de ventilômetro em solo e aos 1 e 20 minutos de imersão, com água ao nível dos ombros, em posição sentada. Após 20 minutos de imersão, foi registrado aumento estatisticamente significativo no Vmin (p=0,015) e Vc (p=0,027); e uma redução estatisticamente significativa (p=0,016) na Cvital 1 minuto após imersão, em relação aos valores obtidos em solo. O maior tempo de imersão alterou assim os valores obtidos em solo, com exceção da Cvital, que sofreu alteração significativa desde o primeiro minuto de imersão. Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre os valores obtidos após 1 e 20 minutos na água. O estudo permite concluir que a imersão do tórax em piscina aquecida provocou aumento no Vmin e Vc e diminuição na Cvital de voluntárias saudáveis.
Benefícios de um programa de educação postural para alunos de uma escola municipal de Garibaldi, RS
Authors: Benini Juliana , Karolczak Ana Paula Barcellos
Published: March 2012

A fisioterapia tem importante papel no meio escolar, pois estudantes desenvolvem maus hábitos e alterações posturais que, a longo prazo, podem gerar restrição funcional. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar os efeitos de um programa de educação postural em estudantes do ensino fundamental da cidade de Garibaldi, RS. Participaram 48 alunos com idade entre 8 e 10 anos, que responderam um questionário sobre hábitos posturais e foram submetidos à avaliação de peso, modelo e modo de transporte da mochila antes e após uma sessão educativa; quatro semanas mais tarde foi feita uma reavaliação. Os pais participaram do estudo respondendo um questionário sobre a postura dos filhos. Quanto aos hábitos escolares, constatou-se mudança positiva na adoção de postura adequada dos pés na posição sentada (p=0,001); e, nas atividades de vida diária, mudanças na posição ao ver televisão (p<0,0001), dormir (p=0,019), pegar objetos no chão (p<0,0001) e costume de ler e/ou escrever na cama (p=0,002). Em relação ao peso da mochila obteve-se redução significativa após a intervenção (p=0,002), enquanto no modelo e modo de transporte não houve diferença. Segundo os pais, os filhos têm bons hábitos de postura e costumam utilizá-los no dia-a-dia. Concluiu-se que a realização de uma sessão de educação postural para alunos promoveu o conhecimento de hábitos posturais saudáveis e modificação de algumas posturas, mas não se pode afirmar que provocou mudanças nos hábitos posturais.
Equoterapia na reabilitação da meningoencefalocele: estudo de caso
Authors: Sanches Sissa Mara Nicodemo , Vasconcelos Luciana Auxiliadora de Paula
Published: March 2012

A equoterapia é uma das técnicas de reabilitação utilizada para pacientes com disfunções neurológicas. Os movimentos provocados pelo cavalo no corpo do paciente podem interferir positivamente em seu controle postural, melhorando a mobilidade geral e o desempenho motor funcional. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar o efeito da equoterapia no equilíbrio, coordenação motora e funcionalidade de uma criança com meningoencefalocele. Uma menina de 3 anos e 6 meses foi submetida a 18 sessões de equoterapia (em três fases - alimentação, escovação e montaria) realizadas uma vez por semana. Para a avaliação foram utilizadas as escalas de equilíbrio de Berg e Tinneti e o Inventário de avaliação pediátrica de incapacidade (PEDI) para habilidades motoras gerais e funcionais, aplicados antes e após o período de terapia; e uma reavaliação foi feita oito semanas (sem intervenção) depois. A equoterapia melhorou de maneira significativa o equilíbrio e a coordenação motora da criança, o que se refletiu no controle de movimentos funcionais básicos para a realização de atividades de vida diária. O ganho funcional também foi percebido pela mãe da criança. Esse estudo oferece uma nova perspectiva sobre o uso da equoterapia como modalidade fisioterapêutica na reabilitação motora e funcional de criança com meningoencefalocele.
Terapia manual no tratamento da espondilólise e espondilolistese: revisão de literatura
Authors: Jassi Fabrício José , Saita Leila Suzuki , Grecco Ana Carolina Pimenta , Tamashiro Margarete Kazue , Catelli Danilo Santos , Nascimento Paulo Roberto Carvalho do , Kuriki Heloyse Uliam , Negrão Filho Rubén de Faria
Published: March 2012

A espondilólise é um defeito na pars interarticularis da vértebra com descontinuidade óssea do segmento intervertebral; a progressão do defeito resulta em deslizamento de uma vértebra sobre a outra, chamado espondilolistese, o que pode provocar dor. O tratamento não-cirúrgico é a escolha inicial na maioria dos casos de espondilolistese, mas poucos estudos verificam a eficácia dos tratamentos conservadores. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma revisão da literatura sobre esses tratamentos, sobretudo no que concerne à terapia manual, a fim de ajudar os terapeutas na prescrição de intervenções eficazes. Os resultados mostram que tanto a terapia manual como a fisioterapia convencional apresentam efeitos benéficos na redução da dor lombar e na melhora funcional do paciente. As terapias manuais envolvem manipulação da coluna vertebral e articulação sacroilíaca, músculo-energia e alongamento dos músculos afetados. Exercícios de estabilização lombopélvica, fortalecimento dos músculos posturais e alongamento dos isquiotibiais e psoas também foram considerados importantes. O paciente deve ser avaliado individualmente em seu quadro clínico e radiográfico para determinação do plano de tratamento. Dentre as opções conservadoras de tratamento encontradas, nenhuma se mostrou conclusivamente superior às outras e todas podem ser incluídas no tratamento sintomático de pacientes com espondilólise/listese.
Freqüência de anticorpos anti-Erhlichia canis, Borrelia burgdorferi e antígenos de Dirofilaria immitis em cães na microrregião Ilhéus-Itabuna, Bahia, Brasil
Authors: Carlos Renata S.A. , Muniz Neta Elza S. , Spagnol Fernando H. , Oliveira Laura L.S. , Brito Roberta L.L. de , Albuquerque George R. , Almosny Nádia R. P.
Published: March 2012

Para avaliação de positividade para antígenos de Dirofilaria immitis, anticorpos anti-Borrelia burgdorferi e anti-Ehrlichia canis foram coletadas 200 amostras de sangue de cães, 100 no município de Ilhéus e 100 no de Itabuna. Foi utilizado o "kit" Snap 3DX (IDEXX Laboratories) para realização das sorologias. Não se observou nenhum animal positivo para antígenos de D. immitis. Apenas dois dos cães estavam positivos para anticorpos anti-B. burgdorferi. Do total de amostras analisadas, 72 (36%) estavam positivas para anticorpos anti-E. canis, sendo 43 em Ilhéus e 29 em Itabuna (p=0,027).
Metazoários parasitos de seis espécies de peixes do Reservatório de Lajes, Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
Authors: Paraguassú Aline R. , Luque José L.
Published: March 2012

Entre abril de 2002 e julho de 2003, foram necropsiados 231 espécimes de peixes: 39 Astyanax bimaculatus (Linnaeus, 1758), 79 A. fasciatus (Cuvier, 1819), 23 Hypostomus affinis (Steindachner, 1877), 26 Hoplias malabaricus (Bloch, 1794), 30 Loricariichthys castaneus (Castelnau, 1855) e 34 Trachelyopterus striatulus (Steindachner, 1876) provenientes do Reservatório de Lajes (22º42' - 22º50'S, 43º53' 44º05'O), Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil, para estudo das suas comunidades parasitárias. A maioria dos espécimes de H. affinis (95,6%) e H. malabaricus (84,6%) estavam parasitados por pelo menos uma espécie de metazoário. Em A. bimaculatus, A. fasciatus, L. castaneus e T. striatulus 41%, 39,2%, 56,7% e 14,7% dos espécimes estavam parasitados, respectivamente. Foram coletadas oito diferentes espécies de metazoários parasitos: 2 em A. bimaculatus, 3 em A. fasciatus, 3 em H. affinis, 4 em H. malabaricus, 4 em L. castaneus e 1 em T. striatulus. As comunidades de metazoários parasitos das seis espécies de peixes estudadas apresentaram típico padrão de distribuição agregada. Foram observados dois casos de correlação negativa entre a abundância e a prevalência parasitárias e o comprimento total dos hospedeiros. A comunidade parasitária de L. castaneus apresentou os maiores valores de intensidade média, índice de dispersão e diversidade. As comunidades parasitárias dos peixes estudados apresentaram escassez de correlação entre a abundância, riqueza parasitária e diversidade com o comprimento total dos hospedeiros. Os baixos valores de riqueza e diversidade das comuni-dades parasitárias podem ser atribuídos as características oligotróficas do Reservatório de Lajes.
Morfologia externa de espécimes adultos de Paratanaisia bragai (Santos, 1934) (Digenea: Eucotylidae)
Authors: Brandolini Solange V.P.B. , Amato Suzana B.
Published: March 2012

Espécimes adultos de Paratanaisia bragai foram coletados de ductos renais de Columba livia infectados naturalmente, fixados em glutaraldeído 2,5% e processados para microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Foram identificados dois tipos distintos de escamas, escamas bífidas e simples, dispostas em fileiras transversais no tegumento das faces dorsal e ventral do corpo. Também mostrando em detalhes a ventosa oral subterminal, bem desenvolvida e acetábulo de tamanho reduzido, localizado no terço médio do corpo, circundado por pequenas protuberâncias e quatro papilas dispostas regularmente na sua margem.
Prevalence of anti-Neospora caninum antibodies in cattle from the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Oshiro Leandra M. , Matos Maria de Fatima C. , Oliveira Jacqueline M. de , Monteiro Letícia A.R.C. , Andreotti Renato
Published: March 2012

Neospora caninum is an obligate intracellular parasite that can infect domestic and wild canids, as well as ruminants and equines. It was described in 1988 and has been known as a major cause of abortion in bovines and neuromuscular alterations and death in dogs. To estimate the prevalence of bovine neosporosis in the 22 municipalities of the so-called Estrato 1 subregion of the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso do Sul, blood samples were collected from cows aged 24 months and older, from December 2003 to March 2004. During sample collection, a questionnaire was used to gather data of epidemiological interest. The samples were subjected to serological diagnosis (indirect fluorescence antibody test - IFAT). Prevalences of 14.9% (449/2488) and 69.8% (143/205) were found for the animals and herds sampled, respectively. The variable found to be associated with seropositivity to N. caninum was abortion (OR 2.52; CI 1.25-5.06). The results revealed the presence of infection by N. caninum in the herds investigated, drawing attention to its role as a potential cause of abortion in cattle in Mato Grosso do Sul.
Transcrição de genes de proteínas de membrana de isolados brasileiros de Anaplasma marginale
Authors: Ramos Carlos A.N. , Araújo Flábio R. , Osório Ana L.A.R. , Madruga Cláudio R. , Rosinha Grácia M. S. , Soares Cleber O. , Elisei Carina
Published: March 2012

Este trabalho demonstra o padrão de transcrição de genes de proteínas de membrana em três isolados brasileiros de A. marginale (Rio Grande do Norte, Pernambuco-Zona da Mata e Pernambuco-Sertão). O RNA foi purificado a partir de sangue de bovinos infectados experimentalmente com os três isolados de A. marginale. Após transcrição reversa, os genes omp1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 e 14; opag1-3; virB3, 9, 10; am097, 197, 254, 854 e 956 foram amplificados por PCR, com oligonucleotídeos iniciadores específicos. Detectaram-se transcritos para todos os genes analisados, exceto omp2, 3 e opag3 em todos os isolados e do gene omp7 em um dos isolados estudados. A ausência de transcrito para os genes opag3 e omp7 diverge do observado em isolados americanos da riquétsia. Possíveis razões para essas diferenças são discutidas.
Tyzzeria parvula (Kotlan, 1933) Klimes, 1963 (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) in the greylag goose (Anser anser Linnaeus, 1758) in southeastern Brazil
Authors: Berto Bruno P. , Teixeira Marcel , Lopes Carlos Wilson G.
Published: March 2012

Tyzzeria parvula from the greylag goose (Anser anser) is described in Southeastern Brazil. Oocysts are spherical to subspherical ranging from 12.4-180 to 10.7-15.9µm (15.4 X 13.4 µm), shape index 1.15, with a double layered wall 0.4 to 0.7 µm thick (n=20), outer smooth and colorless, inner pale greenish. Micropyle is absent, but oocyst residuum is present containing numerous granules and spherules. Surrounded by residuum there are eight sporozoites having one end round and other fine and slightly curved.
Infecção natural por hemoparasitos em bezerros submetidos à quimio-profilaxia aos 30 dias de idade
Authors: Silva Rosângela A. Da , Corrêa Fabíola Do N. , Botteon Rita De Cássia C.M. , Botteon Paulo De Tarso L.
Published: March 2012

O complexo Tristeza Parasitária acarreta grandes prejuízos à pecuária bovina nacional. Os principais agentes etiológicos são Babesia bigemina, B. bovis e Anaplasma marginale, sendo o carrapato Boophilus microplus o principal vetor. Este trabalho relata a ocorrência de infecção natural por hemoparasitos da tristeza parasitária bovina em 36 bezerros com alta infestação natural por carrapatos e submetidos à quimioprofilaxia aos 30 dias de idade. Babesia bigemina (33,3%), B. bovis (11,1%) e A. marginale (13,9%) foram detectados em esfregaços sangüíneos de 16 animais (44,4%) de diferentes idades. Seis bezerros apresentaram sintomas (16,7%) e um morreu (2,8%). O número de casos clínicos foi decorrente de uma associação de fatores, destacando-se a alta infestação precoce por carrapatos e a baixa imunidade passiva em período em que os bezerros ainda não haviam desenvolvido imunidade ativa suficiente.
Método estimativo para amostragem quantitativa de Rondonia rondoni (Nematoda: Atractidae) parasito de peixes
Authors: Campos Cristiane M. De , Moraes Flávio R. De , Pereira Gener T.
Published: March 2012

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o número de Rondonia rondoni no intestino de Piaractus mesopotamicus, por meio da diferença entre peso úmido e peso seco das amostras de parasitos para cada hospedeiro, a partir da relação do peso seco e número de parasitos pré-estabelecida. Amostras totais de R. rondoni, de 37 espécimes de Piaractus mesopotamicus, foram medidas para obtenção do peso úmido, desidratadas em estufa com temperatura entre 55ºC e 60ºC e, após 24 h seu peso seco foi determinado. Por meio de uma regra de três simples, calculou-se o número de parasitos a partir da diferença entre o peso úmido e o peso seco, considerando um erro padrão médio de 6,027 para um número médio de 1010 indivíduos, quantificado em ensaio prévio. A equação da regressão linear estimada foi de y = 13,138x - 162,01 e r² = 0,9989, a qual foi significativa (p < 0,01), sendo y o número de parasitos e x o peso seco. A normalidade dos dados foi verificada com o teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov significativo para p < 0,01.
Carrapatos (Acari: Ixodidae) capturados na Reserva Natural da Vale do Rio Doce, Linhares, Espírito Santo
Authors: Ogrzewalska Maria , Uezu Alexandre , Ferreira Fernando , Labruna Marcelo B.
Published: March 2012

O presente trabalho confirma, após décadas sem novos relatos, a ocorrência dos carrapatos Amblyomma obolongoguttatum Koch, 1844, A. brasiliense Aragão, 1908, e A. humerale Koch, 1844 no Estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil, além do primeiro relato de A. naponense (Packard,1869) para este estado.
Prevention of Autoimmune Diabetes by Ectopic Pancreatic β-Cell Expression of Interleukin-35
Authors: Bettini Maria , Castellaw Ashley H. , Lennon Greig P. , Burton Amanda R. , Vignali Dario A.A.
Published: March 2012

Interleukin (IL)-35 is a newly identified inhibitory cytokine used by T regulatory cells to control T cell–driven immune responses. However, the therapeutic potential of native, biologically active IL-35 has not been fully examined. Expression of the heterodimeric IL-35 cytokine was targeted to β-cells via the rat insulin promoter (RIP) II. Autoimmune diabetes, insulitis, and the infiltrating cellular populations were analyzed. Ectopic expression of IL-35 by pancreatic β-cells led to substantial, long-term protection against autoimmune diabetes, despite limited intraislet IL-35 secretion. Nonobese diabetic RIP-IL35 transgenic mice exhibited decreased islet infiltration with substantial reductions in the number of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and frequency of glucose-6-phosphatase catalytic subunit–related protein-specific CD8+ T cells. Although there were limited alterations in cytokine expression, the reduced T-cell numbers observed coincided with diminished T-cell proliferation and G1 arrest, hallmarks of IL-35 biological activity. These data present a proof of principle that IL-35 could be used as a potent inhibitor of autoimmune diabetes and implicate its potential therapeutic utility in the treatment of type 1 diabetes.
MicroRNA Dysregulation in Diabetic Ischemic Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Greco Simona , Fasanaro Pasquale , Castelvecchio Serenella , D’Alessandra Yuri , Arcelli Diego , Di Donato Marisa , Malavazos Alexis , Capogrossi Maurizio C. , Menicanti Lorenzo , Martelli Fabio
Published: March 2012

Increased morbidity and mortality associated with ischemic heart failure (HF) in type 2 diabetic patients requires a deeper understanding of the underpinning pathogenetic mechanisms. Given the implication of microRNAs (miRNAs) in HF, we investigated their regulation and potential role. miRNA expression profiles were measured in left ventricle biopsies from 10 diabetic HF (D-HF) and 19 nondiabetic HF (ND-HF) patients affected by non–end stage dilated ischemic cardiomyopathy. The HF groups were compared with each other and with 16 matched nondiabetic, non-HF control subjects. A total of 17 miRNAs were modulated in D-HF and/or ND-HF patients when compared with control subjects. miR-216a, strongly increased in both D-HF and ND-HF patients, negatively correlated with left ventricular ejection fraction. Six miRNAs were differently expressed when comparing D-HF and ND-HF patients: miR-34b, miR-34c, miR-199b, miR-210, miR-650, and miR-223. Bioinformatic analysis of their modulated targets showed the enrichment of cardiac dysfunctions and HF categories. Moreover, the hypoxia-inducible factor pathway was activated in the noninfarcted, vital myocardium of D-HF compared with ND-HF patients, indicating a dysregulation of the hypoxia response mechanisms. Accordingly, miR-199a, miR-199b, and miR-210 were modulated by hypoxia and high glucose in cardiomyocytes and endothelial cells cultured in vitro. In conclusion, these findings show a dysregulation of miRNAs in HF, shedding light on the specific disease mechanisms differentiating diabetic patients.
Metabolic Alterations Induced by Sucrose Intake and Alzheimer’s Disease Promote Similar Brain Mitochondrial Abnormalities
Authors: Carvalho Cristina , Cardoso Susana , Correia Sónia C. , Santos Renato X. , Santos Maria S. , Baldeiras Inês , Oliveira Catarina R. , Moreira Paula I.
Published: March 2012

Evidence shows that diabetes increases the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Many efforts have been done to elucidate the mechanisms linking diabetes and AD. To demonstrate that mitochondria may represent a functional link between both pathologies, we compared the effects of AD and sucrose-induced metabolic alterations on mouse brain mitochondrial bioenergetics and oxidative status. For this purpose, brain mitochondria were isolated from wild-type (WT), triple transgenic AD (3xTg-AD), and WT mice fed 20% sucrose-sweetened water for 7 months. Polarography, spectrophotometry, fluorimetry, high-performance liquid chromatography, and electron microscopy were used to evaluate mitochondrial function, oxidative status, and ultrastructure. Western blotting was performed to determine the AD pathogenic protein levels. Sucrose intake caused metabolic alterations like those found in type 2 diabetes. Mitochondria from 3xTg-AD and sucrose-treated WT mice presented a similar impairment of the respiratory chain and phosphorylation system, decreased capacity to accumulate calcium, ultrastructural abnormalities, and oxidative imbalance. Interestingly, sucrose-treated WT mice presented a significant increase in amyloid β protein levels, a hallmark of AD. These results show that in mice, the metabolic alterations associated to diabetes contribute to the development of AD-like pathologic features.
Human Apolipoprotein(a) Kringle V Inhibits Ischemia-Induced Retinal Neovascularization via Suppression of Fibronectin-Mediated Angiogenesis
Authors: Lim Yangmi , Jo Dong Hyun , Kim Jin Hyoung , Ahn Jin-Hyung , Hwang Yu Kyeong , Kang Dong-Ku , Chang Soo-Ik , Yu Young Suk , Yoon Yeup , Kim Jeong Hun
Published: March 2012

Retinal neovascularization is observed in progression of diabetic retinopathy. New vessels grow into the vitreous cavity in proliferative diabetic retinopathy, resulting in traction retinal detachment and vitreous hemorrhage. To overcome the catastrophic visual loss due to these complications, efforts have been focused on the treatment of retinal neovascularization. In this study, we demonstrated the inhibitory effect of recombinant human apolipoprotein(a) kringle V (rhLK8) in an animal model of ischemia-induced retinal neovascularization. rhLK8 induced no definite toxicity on endothelial cells and retinal tissues at the therapeutic dosage. Interestingly, rhLK8 showed antiangiogenic effect, particularly on fibronectin-mediated migration of endothelial cells. Further experiments demonstrated high binding affinity of rhLK8 to α3β1 integrin, and suppression of it might be the mechanism of antiangiogenic effect of rhLK8. Furthermore, rhLK8 inhibited phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase, resulting in suppression of activation of consequent p130CAS-Jun NH2-terminal kinase. Taken together, our data suggested the possible application of rhLK8 in the treatment of retinal neovascularization by suppression of fibronectin-mediated angiogenesis.
Emotions as a dynamical system: the interplay between the meta-control and communication function of emotions
Authors: Hasson C. , Gaussier P. , Boucenna S.
Published: March 2012

Classical models of emotions consider either the communicational aspect of emotions (for instance the emotions conveyed by the facial expressions) or the second order control necessary for survival purpose when the autonomy of the system is an issue. Here, we show the interdependence of communication and meta-control aspects of emotion. We propose the idea that emotions must be understood as a dynamical system linking two controllers: one devoted to social interactions (i.e. communication aspects) and another one devoted to the interactions within the physical world (i.e metacontrol of a more classical controller). Illustrations will be provided from applications involving navigation among different goal places according to different internal drives or object grasping and avoidance.
Particle Velocity Measurement In Swirl Flow, Laboratory Studies
Authors: Neopane Hari Prasad , Thapa Bhola , Dahlhaug Ole Gunnar
Published: March 2012

This paper presents the laboratory studies of particle velocity measurement in highly swirl conditions similar to turbine flow in curved path. It includes a brief description of the developed test rig, concept of critical diameter of particle inside a Francis turbine and experimental analysis. When a particle is flowing in swirl flow, drag force and centrifugal force are two major forces influencing the particle equilibrium. The equilibrium of these two forces provides a critical diameter of the particle. While, a particle larger than the critical diameter move away from the centre and hit the wall, a particle smaller than the critical diameter flows along with the water, and ultimately sinks. For critical diameter, the particle continues to rotate in the turbine. Different shapes and sizes of particles were tested with the same operating conditions and found that triangularly shaped particles were more likely to hit the suction side of the guide vane cascade. Furthermore, this study supports the concept of separation of particles from streamlines inside the test rig, which led to the development of an operating strategy for a Francis turbine processing sediment-laden water. This study also permitted experimental verification of the size and the shape of a particle as it orbits in the turbine, until either the velocity components are changed or the particle became smaller.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6034 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 1-14
Development Of Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jet In Air
Authors: Tyata RB , Subedi DP , Shrestha A , Baral D
Published: March 2012

In this paper, an atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) in air that is expected to be useful for polymer surface modification has been reported. The plasma jet was produced by applying (10 - 30) kHz, (0 - 20) kV AC source. The electrical and optical measurements have also been reported. The use of solenoid as an external electrode has been found to be more effective in boosting the jet to a distance up to 30 mm even with a small flow rate of air. The characteristic of the proposed APPJ was investigated by measuring the effect of treatment on a PE film on the jet for different exposition time and distance from the nozzle. It has been confirmed that the jet can modify polymer film with a work distance of over 25mm. This plasma jet can be useful for the treatment and cleaning of objects having large structures and could be used in wider areas of application. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6035 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 15-22
Spatial And Temporal Variation Of Ambient Pm2.5: A Case Study Of Banepa Valley, Nepal
Authors: Majumder AK , Murthy VK , Bajracharya RM , Khanal SN , Islam KMN , Giri D
Published: March 2012

The study comprised of air quality monitoring during the day time at three municipalities of Banepa, Dhulikhel and Panauti in Kavre district of Nepal. In each of the municipalities three air monitoring stations were established representing industrial, commercial and residential areas. Particulate Matter (PM2.5) has been estimated from air sampling programme which spanned 7 months and a total of 126 days reflecting all the three seasons. The study found that during winter season the concentration of PM2.5 was more and among the areas commercial area noted highest level pollution. The seasonal trend in pollution levels show that winter > pre-monsoon > monsoon. The pollution concentration trend noted among the areas was commercial > industrial > residential on almost all the occasions except at pre-monsoon season between industrial and residential area in Banepa. This finding concludes that, commercial area of Banepa is more defined and is associated with higher particulate matter concentration compared to other areas. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6036 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 23-32
Ethnoveterinary Practices Of Some Plant Species By Ethnic People Of Parbat District, Nepal
Authors: Malla Birendra , Chhetri RB
Published: March 2012

In Parbat district, tribal communities rear livestock mostly cattle, buffalo, goats, sheep etc. Most of the time animal diseases are treated by the uses of local herbal medicines extracted from the plants. All together 21 plant species belonging to 19 families are being identified having used to treat different veterinary diseases like; injury, poisoning, foot and mouth, wounds, stomach disorder, antiworms and bone facture of animals. These ethnoveterinary plants species are normally collected from nearby forest or natural vegetation. Some of them like, Acorus calamus, Cuscuta reflexa, Schima wallichii, Fraxinus floribunda etc are even domesticated by them in nearby cropland therefore such plants are readily available at any time. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6042 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 44-50
Fabrication Of Glimepiride Datura Stramonium Leaves Mucilage And Poly Vinyl Pyrrolidone Sustained Release Matrix Tablets: In Vitro Evaluation
Authors: Hindustan Abdul Ahad , Babu U Anand , Nagesh K , Kiran D Sai , Madhavi K Bindu
Published: March 2012

The main purpose of the present work was to develop matrix tablets of Glimepiride with Datura stramonium leaves mucilage and Poly Vinyl Pyrrolidone and to study its functionality as a matrix forming agent for sustained release tablet formulations. Mucilage from Datura stramonium leaves was extracted, isolated, purified and characterized. Physicochemical properties of the dried powdered mucilage of Datura stramonium leaves were studied. Various formulations of Glimepiride Datura stramonium leave mucilage and Poly Vinyl Pyrrolidone were prepared. The formulated tablets were tested for mechanical properties, friability, swelling behavior, in vitro drug release pattern and the dissolution data was treated with mathematical modeling and the optimized formulation was tested for accelerated stability studies. The formulated tablets were found to have good mechanical properties, good swelling properties. The in vitro dissolution data was perfectly fitting to zero order and the release of drug from the formulation followed Higuchi’s release. The accelerated stability studies revealed that the tablets retain their characteristics even after stressed storage conditions. From this study it was concluded that the dried Datura stramonium leaves mucilage and Poly Vinyl Pyrrolidone combination can be used as a matrix forming material for making sustained release matrix tablets. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6044 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 63-72
On Trans-Sasakian Manifolds
Authors: Shah Riddhi Jung
Published: March 2012

In this paper we study the geometry of trans-Sasakian manifold when it is projective Ricci-semi-symmetric, pseudo-projectively flat and pseudo-projectively semi-symmetric. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6046 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 81-87
In Vitro Regeneration Of Brahmi (Bacopa Monneiri (L.) Penn.) - A Threatened Medicinal Plant
Authors: Gurnani Chandra , Kumar Vikram , Mukhija Shinam , Dhingra Abha , Rajpurohit Sohan , Narula Poonam
Published: March 2012

In vitro regeneration of memory enhancing plant Bacopa monneiri was observed by using nodal explant. In present study, shoot initiation was best seen in MS media in 3mg/l BAP concentration. Combination of BAP and IAA (1mg/l+3mg/l concentration) was best suited for root initiation. The rooted plantlets were hardened and successfully established in soil. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6048 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 97-99
Screening Of Antibacterial Activity Of Nepeta Ciliaris Benth. Against Respiratory Tract Pathogens
Authors: Shankar Gautam Shiv , Navneet M , Sanjay Kumar , Prabhat M
Published: March 2012

The aim of present study was to evaluate the antibacterial potential of various extracts (petroleum ether, acetone, methanol and aqueous) of Nepeta ciliaris against selected respiratory tract pathogens. The extracts from the aerial parts of N. ciliaris at concentration of 200 mg/ml were screened against three gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus MTCC 1144, Streptococcus pneumoniae MTCC 655 and Streptococcus pyogenes MTCC 442) and one gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa MTCC 2474) bacterial pathogens. The agar well diffusion method was adopted to examine antibacterial and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of most effective extracts against the susceptible bacteria. Erythromycin was used as positive control to determine the sensitivity of the strains. Out of the four bacterial species tested, S. pneumoniae was the most susceptible. The acetone extract exhibited maximum activity against all the tested microorganisms while methanol extract showed activity against P. aeruginosa. The MIC values ranged from 40 to 50 mg/ml for all the organisms. The N. ciliaris is potentially a good source of antimicrobial agents. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6049 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 100-103
Effect Of Different Sugars On Shoot Regeneration Of Maize (Zea Mays L.)
Authors: Gauchan DP
Published: March 2012

Effect of various concentrations of different sugars was investigated for induction of root and shoot from maize. The seedling development was induced with the application of fructose, maltose and sucrose at different concentrations (0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75%, 1.0%, 2.5%, 5%, and 10%) of each. Dissected embryos were transferred in ½ MS basal media fortified with various concentrations of different carbon sources. In vitro regenerated maize plantlets were healthy and attained a length of 12.2 cm at 1.0 % concentration in maltose within a week. Out of three sugars low concentration (0.25%- 2.5%) of maltose and sucrose exhibited the maximum shoot and root growth. All the concentrations of maltose and sucrose showed the good growth response of shoot and root. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6051 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 119-124
Survey Paper On “Web Page Content Visualization”
Authors: Shrestha Sushil
Published: March 2012

The paper is a survey of a work done in the field of web page content vuisualization. The paper start with summary of the semantic graph. Then it describe the process of generation of semantic graph by natural language processing and machine learning techniques and then enriching text with RDF/OWL Encoded Sense as the enhancement of the existing enrycher text conversion and ends with the possible future direction and conclusion. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6052 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 125-133
A Review On Bioremediation Of Petroleum Hydrocarbon Contaminants In Soil
Authors: Thapa Bijay , KC Ajay Kumar , Ghimire Anish
Published: March 2012

This review article illustrates the pros and cons of using bioremediation process for the remediation of petroleum contaminants in soil. Bioremediation along with other processes have been used to remediate petroleum hydrocarbon contaminants in soil in past. The major constituents of most crude oils are biodegradable, so bioremediation has proven to be cheap and efficient than others techniques. Different organisms are employed using various technique of bioremediation according to hydrocarbon present in the contaminated soil. Bioremediation is simpler, less labor intensive and public attitude toward bioremediation are generally favorable, the lack of knowledge about microorganisms and their natural role in the environment could affect the acceptability of their use. However, bioremediation can be considered one of the best technologies to deal with petroleum product contaminated soil. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6056 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 164-170
Biotic Response To Acidification Of Lakes – A Review
Authors: Raut R , Sharma S , Bajracharya RM
Published: March 2012

Acidification has far reaching environmental and ecological impacts. It brings change in the chemical, physical and biological composition of the environment and thereby affects the behavior and adaptation of the organisms in the changing environment. In this paper research articles published on acidification and its effect on the biota, with focus on high altitude lakes, are reviewed covering phytoplankton (diatoms), macrophytes, zooplankton, and benthic macro invertebrates. The areas considered in review highly affected by acidification are Scandinavia, Central Europe, Scotland, Canada, United States and Sweden. The specific causes of acidification, its problem and prospect in the high altitude Himalayan lakes with scope and the technique of the studies are also discussed. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/kuset.v8i1.6057 KUSET 2012; 8(1): 171-184
Langue de spécialité et noms propres : comparaison des noms de matériels militaires britanniques et américains
Authors: Trouillon Jean-Louis
Published: March 2012

L’analyse d’un corpus fini et fortement motivé, à savoir les noms de matériels militaires contemporains aux États-Unis et en Grande-Bretagne, permet de poser la question d’une éventuelle différence de traitement lexical entre les deux aires linguistiques et en raison du changement éventuel de motivation dans un domaine identique.
MARCKS as a Negative Regulator of Lipopolysaccharide Signaling
Authors: Manček-Keber Mateja , Benčina Mojca , Japelj Boštjan , Panter Gabriela , Andrä Jörg , Brandenburg Klaus , Triantafilou Martha , Triantafilou Kathy , Jerala Roman
Published: March 2012

Myristoylated alanine-rich C kinase substrate (MARCKS) is an intrinsically unfolded protein with a conserved cationic effector domain, which mediates the cross-talk between several signal transduction pathways. Transcription of MARCKS is increased by stimulation with bacterial LPS. We determined that MARCKS and MARCKS-related protein specifically bind to LPS and that the addition of the MARCKS effector peptide inhibited LPS-induced production of TNF-α in mononuclear cells. The LPS binding site within the effector domain of MARCKS was narrowed down to a heptapeptide that binds to LPS in an extended conformation as determined by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. After LPS stimulation, MARCKS moved from the plasma membrane to FYVE-positive endosomes, where it colocalized with LPS. MARCKS-deficient mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) responded to LPS with increased IL-6 production compared with the matched wild-type MEFs. Similarly, small interfering RNA knockdown of MARCKS also increased LPS signaling, whereas overexpression of MARCKS inhibited LPS signaling. TLR4 signaling was enhanced by the ablation of MARCKS, which had no effect on stimulation by TLR2, TLR3, and TLR5 agonists. These findings demonstrate that MARCKS contributes to the negative regulation of the cellular response to LPS.
Selective Expansion of Allogeneic Regulatory T Cells by Hepatic Stellate Cells: Role of Endotoxin and Implications for Allograft Tolerance
Authors: Dangi Anil , Sumpter Tina L. , Kimura Shoko , Stolz Donna B. , Murase Noriko , Raimondi Giorgio , Vodovotz Yoram , Huang Chao , Thomson Angus W. , Gandhi Chandrashekhar R.
Published: March 2012

Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) may play an important role in hepatic immune regulation by producing numerous cytokines/chemokines and expressing Ag-presenting and T cell coregulatory molecules. Due to disruption of the endothelial barrier during cold-ischemic storage and reperfusion of liver grafts, HSCs can interact directly with cells of the immune system. Endotoxin (LPS), levels of which increase in liver diseases and transplantation, stimulates the synthesis of many mediators by HSCs. We hypothesized that LPS-stimulated HSCs might promote hepatic tolerogenicity by influencing naturally occurring immunosuppressive CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Tregs). Following their portal venous infusion, allogeneic CD4+ T cells, including Tregs, were found closely associated with HSCs, and this association increased in LPS-treated livers. In vitro, both unstimulated and LPS-stimulated HSCs upregulated Fas (CD95) expression on conventional CD4+ T cells and induced their apoptosis in a Fas/Fas ligand-dependent manner. By contrast, HSCs induced Treg proliferation, which required cell–cell contact and was MHC class II-dependent. This effect was augmented when HSCs were pretreated with LPS. LPS increased the expression of MHC class II, CD80, and CD86 and stimulated the production of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α by HSCs. Interestingly, production of IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α was strongly inhibited, but that of IL-10 enhanced in LPS-pretreated HSC/Treg cocultures. Adoptively transferred allogeneic HSCs migrated to the secondary lymphoid tissues and induced Treg expansion in lymph nodes. These data implicate endotoxin-stimulated HSCs as important immune regulators in liver transplantation by inducing selective expansion of tolerance-promoting Tregs and reducing inflammation and alloimmunity.
Heat Shock Protein 90-Mediated Peptide-Selective Presentation of Cytosolic Tumor Antigen for Direct Recognition of Tumors by CD4+ T Cells
Authors: Tsuji Takemasa , Matsuzaki Junko , Caballero Otavia L. , Jungbluth Achim A. , Ritter Gerd , Odunsi Kunle , Old Lloyd J. , Gnjatic Sacha
Published: March 2012

Tumor Ag-specific CD4+ T cells play important functions in tumor immunosurveillance, and in certain cases they can directly recognize HLA class II-expressing tumor cells. However, the underlying mechanism of intracellular Ag presentation to CD4+ T cells by tumor cells has not yet been well characterized. We analyzed two naturally occurring human CD4+ T cell lines specific for different peptides from cytosolic tumor Ag NY-ESO-1. Whereas both lines had the same HLA restriction and a similar ability to recognize exogenous NY-ESO-1 protein, only one CD4+ T cell line recognized NY-ESO-1+ HLA class II-expressing melanoma cells. Modulation of Ag processing in melanoma cells using specific molecular inhibitors and small interfering RNA revealed a previously undescribed peptide-selective Ag-presentation pathway by HLA class II+ melanoma cells. The presentation required both proteasome and endosomal protease-dependent processing mechanisms, as well as cytosolic heat shock protein 90-mediated chaperoning. Such tumor-specific pathway of endogenous HLA class II Ag presentation is expected to play an important role in immunosurveillance or immunosuppression mediated by various subsets of CD4+ T cells at the tumor local site. Furthermore, targeted activation of tumor-recognizing CD4+ T cells by vaccination or adoptive transfer could be a suitable strategy for enhancing the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy.
Effects of Lead Acetate on Light Protein of Drosophila melanoigaster
Authors: Haq Rizwanul , Khan M. Farhanullah , Haq Ehteshamul
Published: March 2012

Lead is supposed to be an important poisonous waste, which could contaminate the environment, therefore, insects could be influenced easily by the lead. Drosophila melanogaster, was studied at 48 hours post treatment, under the effects of lead acetate, in different concentrations of 0.125 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg and 2.0 mg. It was observed that, under the effects of lead abnormalities, and deformity were developed in the larvae of flies. Thus these flies could present a useful module for the quick transmission of the environmental hazards due to lead contamination, which exerts a specific physiological and morphological effect on these flies.
Exploration of Groups Through Latent Structural Model
Authors: Shamshad Bushra , Siddiqi Junaid Saghir
Published: March 2012

In this paper Latent Class Analysis is applied on two different data sets. One of which is of elections of Karachi University Teacher Society (KUTS) in year 1993-1994. Members of two (Rightist and Mix) groups were competing for the post of President, Vice president, Secretary and Treasurer. The second data is about the study of parenting style on rearing children along with the factors self esteem and thoughts of suicide. From both the data set we will be able to come across the groups prevailing in our society and be able to assign conditional probability to individual, to which group they belong.
Risk Zone Mapping of Lead Pollution in Urban Groundwater
Authors: Siddique Azhar , Zaigham Nayyer A. , Mohiuddin Shiekh , Mumtaz Majid , Saied Sumayya , Mallick Khalil A.
Published: March 2012

Groundwater samples (n = 230) were collected from various parts of the Karachi City (Pakistan), Karachi is an urban coastal City situated at the southern most part of the Pakistan along the Arabian Sea. The groundwater samples were subjected to electrothermal atomic absorption spectroscopy (EAAS) for the analysis of Pb. Variable Pb levels were observed in groundwater samples from different parts of the city. The relative higher concentrations of Pb were found in the industrial area of the Lyari River vicinity and along the coastal belt. GIS risk zone model based on disjunctive kriging were generated and areas associated with higher risk for Pb contamination were classified on the map. The outcomes of the study stressed that GIS spatial analysis could be a useful tool for the assessment and forecasting of health risk in complex urban environmental setup.