Sensitivity to Cupressus: Allergenic Significance in Córdoba (Spain)

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology : Official Organ of the International Association of Asthmology (INTERASMA) and Sociedad Latinoamericana De Alergia E Inmunología. Mar-Apr, 1996  |  Pubmed ID: 8727269

The detection of high levels of Cupressaceae pollen concentration in the air from January to April for several years in our area prompted analysis of the incidence and allergenic significance of sensitivity to this pollen. Furthermore, this is the highest winter-blooming taxa in the city of Córdoba. Skin prick tests were carried out over a one-year period on 1532 patients suffering from respiratory disorders (asthma and/or rhinoconjunctivitis). A total of 42 variables were studied in Cupressus-positive and Cupressus-negative patients; the data obtained were analyzed using a statistical software package. Sensitivity to Cupressus was found in 13% of all outpatients attending the unit, 18% of patients with respiratory disorders and 35% of patients with pollinosis. No significant differences were found between Cupressus-positive (C+) and Cupressus-negative (C-) patients with regard to mean age, sex, patient environment (i.e., rural, semi-rural, urban), personal or family history of atopy, clinical symptoms or evolution after immunotherapy (which did not include this antigen). More C+ patients were found in the higher age brackets (over 25 years old; p < 0.05); C+ patients showed greater duration (p < 0.05) and slower development (p < 0.05) of symptoms, and were also found to be more sensitive to other pollens (p < 0.001). All the Cupressus-sensitive patients also reacted positively to Olea and Fraxinus, compared to 77% and 51% in the two Cupressus-negative groups.

[Intranasal Administration of GnRH in the Treatment of Uterine Myomatosis]

Ginecología Y Obstetricia De México. Aug, 1996  |  Pubmed ID: 8925984

Nine patients in which an intranasal GnRH agonist analog (napharelin acetate) was administered with the purpose of decreasing the size of the myomas, were studied. In all a decrement in uterine and myoma size was observed. The FSH levels decreased since the first treated cycle, whereas LH and E2 levels initially increase, but finally decreased. The patients had menstrual bleeding between four and eight weeks after napharelin withdrawal. The mentioned results elicit the effectivity of GnRH agonist analog for leomyomata treatment.

Mechanisms of Nonhomologous DNA End-joining in Frogs, Mice and Men

Biological Chemistry. Dec, 1996  |  Pubmed ID: 8997488

DNA end-joining, a process related to illegitimate recombination and capable of rejoining unrelated pairs of DNA ends in the absence of sequence homology, is considered the major pathway of double-strand break (DSB) repair in mammalian cells. Whole cell and nuclear extracts from three human and one mouse cell line were investigated for their capacities to promote nonhomologous DNA end-joining and their relative activities of DNA-PK, a mammalian DNA end-binding protein complex implicated in DSB-repair. The levels of DNA end-joining and the spectra of junctions of the human systems were identical with the ones of a previously described cell-free joining system derived from Xenopus laevis eggs. Due to the presence of potent 3'-5'-exonuclease activities the mouse system displayed decreased levels of DNA end-joining and larger fractions of junctions containing deletions but otherwise the basic mechanisms of junction formation appeared to be identical with the Xenopus system. DNA-PK activity was found to be equally low in the Xenopus and the mouse system but 4- to 6-fold increased in the human systems. Our results suggest that the mechanisms of DNA end-joining may be modulated by the level of exonuclease activities and/or DNA end-protecting factors but are otherwise highly conserved in vertebrate cells.

DNA Lesions and Repair

Mutation Research. Nov, 1996  |  Pubmed ID: 9001575

[Corynebacterium CDC G1: Pathogen or Colonizer?]

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. Oct, 1996  |  Pubmed ID: 9011218

[Infections in Lung Transplantation]

Archivos De Bronconeumología. Nov, 1996  |  Pubmed ID: 9064081

Lung transplantation has become the therapeutic hope of terminal respiratory patients. Infections are among the main causes of morbidity and mortality in these patients. We therefore analyze infections suffered after lung transplants performed at Clínica Puerta de Hierro over a two-year period. The cases of 14 transplanted patients, 6 bilateral and 8 unilateral, were analyzed. Pre-transplant data available for all included analysis of serum antibodies to several viruses, as well as bacterial and fungal cultures, and Ziehl's sputum test. All received prophylactic antibiotic, antifungal and antiviral treatment according to protocol. The bronchial aspirate of the donor, and recipient specimens of bronchial aspirate, bronchoalveolar lavage and biopsies obtained by bronchoscopy after transplantation were cultured. Bronchoscopies were performed according to protocol, based on clinical picture. Other cultures were obtained as needed. We recorded 27 respiratory infections, among which 4 were pneumonia transmitted by the donor, 3 were tuberculosis, 3 were Aspergillus infections, 5 were cytomegalovirus pneumonitis and one, P. carinii pneumonia. Lung infections have a strong impact on outcome of lung transplant patients. Knowledge of the chronological development of infections made appropriate prophylaxis and early detection possible, such that survival during the first two years after transplantation was approximately 70% in our hospital.

Epidemic Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis in La Guajira, Colombia, 1995

The Journal of Infectious Diseases. Apr, 1997  |  Pubmed ID: 9086137

In 1995, the first Venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) outbreak in Colombia in 22 years caused an estimated 75,000 human cases, 3000 with neurologic complications and 300 fatal, in La Guajira State. Of the state's estimated 50,000 equines, 8% may have died. An epizootic IC virus, probably introduced from Venezuela, was rapidly amplified among unvaccinated equines. Record high rainfall, producing high densities of vector Aedes taeniorhynchus, led to extensive epidemic transmission (30% attack rate) in the four affected municipalities. Native Wayuu Indians, constituting 24% of the state's population, were at increased risk of infection (risk ratio, 3.3; 95% confidence interval, 2.2-5.3). Epidemiologic studies found no evidence of human-to-human transmission. A higher-than-expected number of abortions during the outbreak confirmed a previously suspected abortifacient role of VEE infection. Pesticide applications and a mass equine vaccination program contributed to preventing the outbreak's spread south of La Guajira.

Molecular Structure and Gas Chromatographic Retention Behavior of the Components of Ylang-Ylang Oil

Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. May, 1997  |  Pubmed ID: 9145390

Using quantitative structure-retention relationships (QSRR) methodologies the Kovats gas chromatographic retention indices for both apolar (DB-1) and polar (DB-Wax) columns for 48 compounds from Ylang-Ylang essential oil were empirically predicted from calculated and experimental data on molecular structure. Topological, geometric, and electronic descriptors were obtained for model generation. Relationships between descriptors and the retention data reported were established by linear multiple regression, giving equations that can be used to predict the Kovats indices for compounds present in essential oils, both in DB-1 and DB-Wax columns. Factor analysis was performed to interpret the meaning of the descriptors included in the models. The prediction model for the DB-1 column includes descriptors such as Randic's first-order connectivity index (1X), the molecular surface (MSA), the sum of the atomic charge on all the hydrogens (QH), Randic's third-order connectivity index (3X) and the molecular electronegativity (chi). The prediction model for the DB-Wax column includes the first three descriptors mentioned for the DB-1 column (1X, MSA and QH) and the most negative charge (MNC), the global softness (S), and the difference between Randic's and Kier and Hall's third-order connectivity indexes (3X-3XV).

Bronchial and Alveolar Allergen-induced Anaphylaxis and the Stimulation of Bronchial Mucociliary Clearance in Ragweed-sensitized Dogs

Proceedings of the Association of American Physicians. Jul, 1997  |  Pubmed ID: 9220541

In allergic airways disease, we hypothesized that an acute allergen inhalation activates cells in the bronchial and alveolar regions of the lungs to initiate cardiopulmonary anaphylactic responses that include the stimulation of bronchial mucociliary clearance. Seven beagles were neonatally sensitized to ragweed allergen, and four were sham-sensitized. Adult dogs were anesthetized with propofol and etomidate. Bronchial retention of radiotagged particles deposited in the lungs was monitored with a gamma camera. Then 0.4-1.8 micrograms of ragweed allergen was deposited either proximally or peripherally in the lungs while achieving a similar total mass deposited. Both proximal and peripheral allergen deposition elicited cardiopulmonary responses characteristic of anaphylaxis. Following proximal allergen deposition, the mean bronchial mucuciliary clearance at 60 min increased from 27.5% +/- 4.9% to 59.9% +/- 3.3% (p < .01), and following peripheral deposition it increased from 5.9% +/- 3.1% to 52.9% +/- 7.2% (p < .01). No allergen-induced suppression of bronchial mucociliary clearance was detected within the 140-min postexposure period. No changes in cardiopulmonary responses or bronchial mucociliary clearance in the unsensitized dogs could be ascribed to the inhalation of allergen. Both the bronchi and alveoli are target sites for the initiation of allergen-induced respiratory and cardiovascular anaphylactic responses and the stimulation of bronchial mucociliary clearance.

Radiosensitivity and Double-strand Break Rejoining in Tumorigenic and Non-tumorigenic Human Epithelial Cell Lines

International Journal of Radiation Biology. Jul, 1997  |  Pubmed ID: 9246198

Radiosensitivity and repair of DNA damage induced by ionizing radiation and restriction enzymes were investigated in three human epithelial cell lines: two tumorigenic squamous carcinoma cell lines (SCC-4 and SCC-25), and a non-tumorigenic epidermal keratinocyte cell line (RHEK-1). Sensitivity to ionizing radiation was determined using a clonogenic cell survival assay, which showed SCC-4 to be more radiosensitive than SCC-25 and RHEK-1, which in turn displayed about equal sensitivity. Using DNA precipitation under alkaline conditions for the analysis of induction and repair of DNA single-strand breaks (ssb), an increased level of ssb induction was found for SCC-4 while the efficiency of ssb repair was about equal in all three cell lines. Using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) for the measurement of induction and repair of DNA double-strand breaks (dsb), no consistent differences were detected between the three cell lines. A plasmid reconstitution assay was used to determine the capacity to rejoin restriction enzyme-induced dsb in whole-cell extracts prepared from the three cell lines. In these experiments, dsb rejoining was shown to be significantly reduced in the most radiosensitive SCC-4 cell line while it was about equal in RHEK-1 and SCC-25. The results indicate that plasmid reconstitution in cell-free extracts is a sufficiently sensitive assay to detect differences in repair capacity among tumour cell lines of different radiosensitivity which remain undetectable by DNA precipitation and PFGE.

Role of Ca2+ and Protein Kinase C in the Receptor-mediated Activation of Na+/H+ Exchange in Isolated Liver Cells

The Biochemical Journal. Aug, 1997  |  Pubmed ID: 9271082

This work aimed to study the relationship between agonist-induced changes in cytosolic free calcium levels, protein kinase C (PKC) activity and intracellular pH in isolated liver cells. We observed that, like alpha1-adrenergic agonists, the Ca2+-mobilizing vasoactive peptides vasopressin and angiotensin II produced an extracellular-Na+-dependent, 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl)amiloride-sensitive, intracellular alkalinization, indicative of Na+/H+ antiporter activation. Blocking the agonist-induced increase in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration using the calcium chelator bis-(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N,N', N'-tetra-acetic acid (BAPTA) prevented all types of receptor-mediated intracellular alkalinization. Thus activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger by either alpha1-adrenergic agonists or vasoactive peptides relies on the mobilization of intracellular Ca2+. In contrast, only the alpha1-adrenergic-agonist-induced alkalinization was dependent on extracellular Ca2+. Even though alpha1-adrenergic as well as vasoactive peptide agonists stimulated protein kinase C (PKC) activity in isolated liver cells, only the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated intracellular alkalinization was dependent on PKC. According to these observations, Ca2+-mobilizing agonists appear to activate the Na+/H+ exchanger by at least two different mechanisms: (1) the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated activation that is dependent on extracellular Ca2+ and PKC; and (2) vasoactive-peptide-induced alkalinization that is independent of extracellular Ca2+ and PKC. The alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated, PKC-sensitive, activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger seems to be responsible for the distinct ability of these receptors to elicit the sustained stimulation of hepatic functions.

Gastric Triplication and Peritoneal Melanosis

Journal of Pediatric Surgery. Dec, 1997  |  Pubmed ID: 9434025

Duplications of the intestinal tract are rare malformations, and triplications are even less frequent; only two cases are found in the literature. Peritoneal melanosis, a diffuse, black pigmentation of the peritoneum is also rare; only six cases have been reported; five in young women and one in a 2-year-old girl. The authors report on a 6-month-old boy with a gastric triplication and peritoneal melanosis. The diagnostic criteria and the possible embryological origin are discussed.

Influence of Thyroid Status on Hepatic Alpha 1-adrenoreceptor Responsiveness

The American Journal of Physiology. Dec, 1997  |  Pubmed ID: 9435520

The present work aimed to elucidate the influence of thyroid functional status on the alpha 1-adrenoreceptor-induced activation of hepatic metabolic functions. The experiments were performed in either a nonrecirculating liver perfusion system featuring continuous monitoring of portal pressure, PO2, pCa, and pH, or isolated hepatocytes from euthyroid, hyperthyroid, and hypothyroid rats. Hypothyroidism decreased the alpha 1-adrenergic stimulation of respiration, glycogen breakdown, and gluconeogenesis. These effects were accompanied by a decreased intracellular Ca2+ mobilization corroborating that those processes are regulated by the Ca(2+)-dependent branch of the alpha 1-adrenoreceptor signaling pathway. Moreover, in hyperthyroid rats the alpha 1-adrenergic-induced increase in cytosolic Ca2+ was enhanced, and glucose synthesis or mobilization was not altered. The thyroid status influenced neither the alpha 1-adrenergic stimulation of vascular smooth muscle contraction nor the alpha 1-agonist-induced intracellular alkalinization and protein kinase C (PKC) activation. Thus the distinct impairment of the Ca(2+)-dependent branch of the alpha 1-adrenoreceptor signaling pathway by thyroid status provides a useful tool to investigate the role played by each signaling pathway, Ca2+ or PKC, in controlling hepatic functions.

[Septic Arthritis Caused by Streptococcus Pneumoniae]

Revista Clínica Española. Dec, 1997  |  Pubmed ID: 9477674

Streptococcus pneumoniae is an uncommon agent of infective arthritis. In this report three cases of pneumococcal arthritis are described.

3,5,3'-Tri-iodo-L-thyronine Acutely Regulates a Protein Kinase C-sensitive, Ca2+-independent, Branch of the Hepatic Alpha1-adrenoreceptor Signalling Pathway

The Biochemical Journal. Apr, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9512465

This work aimed to investigate the acute effect of the thyroid hormone 3,5,3'-tri-iodo-L-thyronine (T3) in regulating the hepatic metabolism either directly or by controlling the responsiveness to Ca2+-mobilizing agonists. We did not detect any acute metabolic effect of T3 either in perfused liver or in isolated liver cells. However, T3 exerted a powerful inhibitory effect on the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated responses. The promptness of this T3 effect rules out that it was the result of rate changes in gene(s) transcription. T3 inhibited the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated sustained stimulation of respiration and release of Ca2+ and H+, but not the glycogenolytic or gluconeogenic responses, in perfused liver. In isolated liver cells, T3 enhanced the alpha1-agonist-induced increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ and impeded the intracellular alkalinization. Since T3 also prevented the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated activation of protein kinase C, its effects on pH seem to be the result of a lack of activation of the Na+/H+ exchanger. The failure of T3 to prevent the alpha1-adrenergic stimulation of gluconeogenesis despite the inhibition of protein kinase C activation indicates that the elevation of cytosolic free Ca2+ is a sufficient signal to elicit that response. T3 also impaired some of the angiotensin-II-mediated responses, but did not alter the effects of PMA on hepatic metabolism, indicating, therefore, that some postreceptor event is the target for T3 actions. The differential effect of T3 in enhancing the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ and preventing the activation of protein kinase C, provides a unique tool for further investigating the role of each branch of the signalling pathway in controlling the hepatic functions. Moreover, the low effective concentrations of T3 (<= 10 nM) in perturbing the alpha1-adrenoreceptor-mediated response suggests its physiological significance.

[Endocarditis by Bacillus Cereus 1 in Prosthetic Mitral Valve]

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. Feb, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9586376

A High Yield of Translocations Parallels the High Yield of Sister Chromatid Exchanges in the CHO Mutant EM9

Mutation Research. Feb, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9626966

The fluorescence plus Giemsa (FPG) and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) techniques have been used to determine, respectively, the frequencies of sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs) and stable chromosome aberrations (translocations) induced by different concentrations of BrdU in the Chinese hamster ovary cell mutant EM9 and its parental line AA8. The results indicate that BrdU induced a high frequency of SCEs and translocations in EM9 as compared with AA8, and that the translocation/dicentric ratio was also higher in the mutant cell line than in the parental cell line in both untreated and BrdU-treated cultures. These observations may indicate a possible relationship between the molecular mechanisms involved in the formation of SCEs and translocations.

[About the Article "Colonization/infection of a Lung Transplant by Scedosporium Inflatum"]

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. May, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9666595

Traumatic Abdominal Aortic Pseudoaneurysm Treated with Balloon-expandable Bifurcated Endoprosthesis

Journal of Vascular Surgery : Official Publication, the Society for Vascular Surgery [and] International Society for Cardiovascular Surgery, North American Chapter. Aug, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9719331

A 22-year-old man came to our institution with upper gastrointestinal bleeding and massive intra-abdominal hemorrhage. His history included an abdominal gunshot, with aortic and multiple intestinal perforations, 9 months before. At the time of the original injury, he was treated elsewhere by primary closure of the aortic laceration and multiple intestinal resections. An aortic pseudoaneurysm was revealed by means of an angiogram of the descending aorta. Conventional surgical procedures were deemed not feasible because of previous abdominal operations, so a balloon-expandable bifurcated endoprosthesis was constructed and inserted into the terminal aorta through the femoral approach, with resolution of the abdominal aortic pseudoaneurysm.

[Study of the in Vitro Sensitivity of Yeasts with the ATB-Fungus System]

Revista Española De Quimioterapia : Publicación Oficial De La Sociedad Española De Quimioterapia. Sep, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9795312

[Isolation of Leclercia Adecarboxylata in Ulcer Exudate]

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. Aug-Sep, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9808889

[Sensitivity to Quinolones and Ampicillin in Salmonella Spp]

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. Oct, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9835165

Music Does Not Reduce Alfentanil Requirement During Patient-controlled Analgesia (PCA) Use in Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy for Renal Stones

Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. Dec, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9879163

To evaluate the impact of music on opioid requirements and pain levels during renal lithotripsy using alfentanil patient-controlled analgesia (PCA), we conducted a prospective, blinded, randomized controlled trial. Patients undergoing lithotripsy were instructed in PCA use and asked to rate their anxiety and select their preferred type of music. They were then premedicated with morphine and ketorolac and randomly allocated into two groups. Group 1 (n = 97) had music started 10 min before the procedure and maintained until 10 min after its conclusion. Group 2 (n = 96) had music begun at the conclusion of lithotripsy and continued for 10 min. Pain intensity, alfentanil requirement, side effects, quality of analgesia, patient satisfaction, and acceptance of the technique were evaluated. Demographics, alfentanil requirement, pain levels, side effects, quality of analgesia, and patient satisfaction were similar in both groups. The addition of music did not provide any benefit. This result raises the possibility that some nonpharmacologic therapies have minimal impact in settings where the painful stimulus is moderate to severe and adequate pharmacotherapy is available.

Selective Impairment of Endothelium-mediated Vasodilation in Liver Transplant Recipients with Cyclosporin A-induced Hypertension

Hepatology (Baltimore, Md.). Feb, 1998  |  Pubmed ID: 9462627

Arterial hypertension is commonly observed in orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) recipients receiving cyclosporin A (CsA), but the precise pathogenetic mechanisms remain partially unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate endothelium-dependent and -independent dilation and adrenergic constriction of resistance vessels of OLT recipients treated with CsA. Vascular reactivity was examined in 22 OLT patients, 10 with and 12 without arterial hypertension, and in 10 control subjects by assessing the forearm blood flow response to the brachial artery infusion of increasing concentrations of methacholine chloride, sodium nitroprusside, and phenylephrine. In 10 OLT patients, the response to methacholine was also examined after acetylsalicylate. The ratio of serum nitrite and nitrate to serum creatinine was lower (P < .05) in OLT patients with hypertension than in nonhypertensive patients and controls. Basal forearm flow was similar in the three groups. Methacholine vasodilation was impaired in the hypertensive patients as shown by a lower maximum forearm vasodilator response and a shift in the dose response curve to methacholine to the right compared with the nonhypertensive OLT patients and the controls. The response to methacholine was not modified after salicylate. Forearm flow response to nitroprusside was similar in the three groups. No differences between the patients and the controls were found in the maximum forearm flow contraction in response to phenylephrine. An impairment in endothelium-dependent vasodilation could mediate arterial hypertension in OLT patients immunosuppressed with CsA.

Characterization and Comparison of Escherichia Coli Transfer RNAs by Graph Theory Based on Secondary Structure

Journal of Theoretical Biology. Mar, 1999  |  Pubmed ID: 10074393

We have developed a model to characterize the tRNA structures of Escherichia coli using graph theory. First of all, tRNAs were represented as graphs, whose vertices correspond to nucleotides and the edges to phosphodiester and hydrogen bond linkages. Vertices and edges were weighted using the results of a preliminary quantum study of the nucleotides and the possible coupling between pair bases using the semiempirical method AM1. For each vertex, we defined a nucleotide valence that measures the capability of forming hydrogen bonds. Edges were differentiated by using bond orders. We have proposed weighted structural descriptors-closely related to molecular Randic connectivity and Balaban distance indices-as a distinctive characteristic of each structure. Molecules were characterized by a set of weighted structural descriptors and classified by a clustering method and discriminant function analysis. Two main groups of tRNAs that correspond to the biosynthetic amino acid pathways, in agreement with Wong's coevolution theory of the genetic code, were obtained.

The Stimulation of Ketogenesis by Cannabinoids in Cultured Astrocytes Defines Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase I As a New Ceramide-activated Enzyme

Journal of Neurochemistry. Apr, 1999  |  Pubmed ID: 10098887

The effects of cannabinoids on ketogenesis in primary cultures of rat astrocytes were studied. Delta9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the major active component of marijuana, produced a malonyl-CoA-independent stimulation of carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT-I) and ketogenesis from [14C]palmitate. The THC-induced stimulation of ketogenesis was mimicked by the synthetic cannabinoid HU-210 and was prevented by pertussis toxin and the CB1 cannabinoid receptor antagonist SR141716. Experiments performed with different cellular modulators indicated that the THC-induced stimulation of ketogenesis was independent of cyclic AMP, Ca2+, protein kinase C, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK). The possible involvement of ceramide in the activation of ketogenesis by cannabinoids was subsequently studied. THC produced a CB1 receptor-dependent stimulation of sphingomyelin breakdown that was concomitant to an elevation of intracellular ceramide levels. Addition of exogenous sphingomyelinase to the astrocyte culture medium led to a MAPK-independent activation of ketogenesis that was quantitatively similar and not additive to that exerted by THC. Furthermore, ceramide activated CPT-I in astrocyte mitochondria. Results thus indicate that cannabinoids stimulate ketogenesis in astrocytes by a mechanism that may rely on CB1 receptor activation, sphingomyelin hydrolysis, and ceramide-mediated activation of CPT-I.

[Evaluation of Anorexia in Patients with Bile Duct Obstruction]

Nutrición Hospitalaria : Organo Oficial De La Sociedad Española De Nutrición Parenteral Y Enteral. Jan-Feb, 1999  |  Pubmed ID: 10361816

Obstructive jaundice is often accompanied by protein-caloric malnutrition. The objective of the present study is to analyze the incidence and the degree of alterations in the food ingestion of patients with obstructive jaundice.

Canine Gonadal Dysgenesis Syndrome: a Case of Mosaicism (77,XO-78,XX)

The Veterinary Record. Nov, 1999  |  Pubmed ID: 10606019

A toy poodle bitch had an abnormal oestrus cycle and apparently persistent follicles. Hormonal therapy was unsuccessful. The bitch was ovariohysterectomised and gross and histological evaluation of the ovaries and uterus, together with karyotyping, led to a diagnosis of 77,XO-78,XX mosaicism.

Intestinal Involvement by Nontuberculous Mycobacteria After Heart Transplantation

Clinical Infectious Diseases : an Official Publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Mar, 2000  |  Pubmed ID: 10722455

Towards a Proper Modeling of Detector and Source Characteristics in Monte Carlo Simulations

Applied Radiation and Isotopes : Including Data, Instrumentation and Methods for Use in Agriculture, Industry and Medicine. Mar, 2000  |  Pubmed ID: 10724440

We performed a systematic study on the influence of different source configurations on the reliability of Monte Carlo calculations for the response of Ge detectors. Calculated full-energy peak efficiencies are compared to experimental values in the energy range 46-1800 keV. Setups with different characteristics are considered, from point-like to volume sources. Among the latter there are filters and aqueous matrices and sediments in Petri boxes or Marinelli beakers. The analysis of the deviations between experimental and calculated results for the different configurations enables us to detect inaccuracies in the description of detector and source characteristics and to improve them. By means of this procedure satisfactory results of the efficiencies were obtained in the whole energy range. For all setups, the deviations average 1.5%, except for the sediment sources where they are up to 3.3%.

[Edematous and Pruriginous Cutaneous Lesion in the Left Forearm After a Trip to Equatorial Guinea]

Medicina Clínica. May, 2000  |  Pubmed ID: 10923329

Pharmacological and Molecular Analysis of ATP-sensitive K(+) Channels in the Pig and Human Detrusor

European Journal of Pharmacology. Jul, 2000  |  Pubmed ID: 10988346

The pharmacological and molecular properties of ATP-sensitive K(+) channels present in pig detrusor smooth muscle were investigated. In isolated pig detrusor strips, ATP-sensitive K(+) channel openers inhibited contractions elicited by low frequency field-stimulation in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibitory effects of P1075 [N-cyano-N'-(1,1-dimethylpropyl)-N"-3-pyridylguanidine] were attenuated by glyburide with a pA(2) value of 7.38 (slope=1.08). The potency of the inhibitory effects of the K(+) channel openers on the field-stimulated contractions correlated well with those evoked by the muscarinic receptor agonist, carbachol (r=0.93) and furthermore, to relaxation of the pre-contracted (25 mM potassium chloride, KCl) human detrusor (r=0.95). Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis showed the presence of mRNA for sulfonylurea receptors SUR1 and SUR2B in both pig and human detrusor. Considering the similarities in the molecular and pharmacological profile of ATP-sensitive K(+) channels between the pig and the human detrusor, it is concluded that the pig detrusor may serve as a suitable in vitro model for the evaluation of novel K(+) channel openers with potential use in urological disorders in humans.

Data Acquisition, Data Storage, and Data Presentation in a Modern Genetics Laboratory

Reviews in Immunogenetics. 2000  |  Pubmed ID: 12361094

Modern genetic analysis can be divided into three main areas of investigation. The first is data acquisition, in the form of genomic sequence and the cataloguing of polymorphism data of the single nucleotide polymorphism variety (so called SNPs). Once identified, such genetic information can be adapted into high throughput tests to examine genetic information in large populations, making the analysis of sufficiently large numbers both cost and time effective so that relatively low-penetrant genetic effects can be accurately detected. The third step is correlating variation with phenotype (e.g. disease susceptibility or resistance) for a variety of disorders is paramount in our motivation and indeed is a common goal of modern human genetic analysis. While the technology to acquire vast amounts of genetic data is now well established and continues to expand, the ability to deal with such data, from the process of acquisition, storage, and analysis depends fundamentally on a solid informatics infrastructure as an essential component. Indeed, most of the major gains in productivity in this field are to be realized on the informatics front, and involve automating data acquisition, defining and sorting data in databases for quality control and analysis and facilitating access to data for the large variety of data analyses. Informatics-related issues including those relating to data acquisition, database structure, and analysis tools are summarized here in an effort to define some of the issues relevant to establishing informatics infrastructure in a small genetics laboratory focused on resequencing human immune response genes. From inherited diseases to drug efficacy to the specific genetic changes occurring during tumor development, this new field of medical genetics promises a profound impact on the state of human health. Ultimately, any and all advances in this field will continue to depend on major investments in informatics.

Multiresistant Extended-spectrum Beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella Pneumoniae Causing an Outbreak of Nosocomial Bloodstream Infection

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology : the Official Journal of the Society of Hospital Epidemiologists of America. Nov, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11842996

This article describes an outbreak of bloodstream infection due to clonal dissemination of multiresistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in a neonatal area, during August 1999, in Mexico City General Hospital. The intestinal tract was the likely reservoir, and intensification of Contact Precaution measures contained the outbreak.

Outbreak of Nosocomial Sepsis and Pneumonia in a Newborn Intensive Care Unit by Multiresistant Extended-spectrum Beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella Pneumoniae: High Impact on Mortality

Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology : the Official Journal of the Society of Hospital Epidemiologists of America. Nov, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11842997

We describe a case-control study of a small outbreak of nosocomial sepsis and pneumonia with high mortality due to clonal dissemination of a multiresistant Klebsiella pneumoniae in the neonatal intensive care unit of a Mexican institution. Our study helped to change nosocomial infection control policy in this hospital.

Glomerular Expression of Fas Ligand and Bax MRNA in Lupus Nephritis

Autoimmunity. 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11905854

The current studies were carried out to determine the expression of Fas ligand and Bax in kidneys from lupus nephritis as possible indicators of apoptosis. Twenty-four kidney biopsies from patients with lupus nephritis and 30 normal controls were studied for FasL and Bax gene expression by fluorescent in situ hybridization. Seventy percent of the lupus biopsies displayed FasL or Bax mRNAs. These genes were mainly expressed in biopsies with higher activity indices. In contrast, neither of these mediators was detected in normal glomeruli. These data suggest that FasL and Bax are up-regulated in lupus nephritis and may play a pathogenic role through apoptotic cascades.

Characterization of Rhizobial Isolates of Phaseolus Vulgaris by Staircase Electrophoresis of Low-molecular-weight RNA

Applied and Environmental Microbiology. Feb, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11157280

Low-molecular-weight (LMW) RNA molecules were analyzed to characterize rhizobial isolates that nodulate the common bean growing in Spain. Since LMW RNA profiles, determined by staircase electrophoresis, varied across the rhizobial species nodulating beans, we demonstrated that bean isolates recovered from Spanish soils presumptively could be characterized as Rhizobium etli, Rhizobium gallicum, Rhizobium giardinii, Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae and bv. trifolii, and Sinorhizobium fredii.

Coincidence Summing Corrections for the Natural Decay Series in Gamma-ray Spectrometry

Applied Radiation and Isotopes : Including Data, Instrumentation and Methods for Use in Agriculture, Industry and Medicine. May, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11258526

Using a Monte Carlo code and a Markov formalism to describe the decay schemes, coincidence-summing correction factors can be calculated with a suitable accuracy. For two different measuring geometries and an HPGe detector, calculated and experimental correction factors have been shown to closely agree for 152Eu. The simulation method has subsequently been applied in assessing the need for coincidence-summing corrections for members of the uranium, thorium and actinium series measurable by gamma-spectrometry. Correction factors were calculated for predominant gamma emissions significantly affected by coincidence-summing effects and the correctness of our calculations tested for environmental samples. The test makes it evident that in order to obtain reliable and unbiased activity values for some natural radionuclides coincidence summing cannot be neglected in environmental measurements at small source-detector distances.

Tsukamurella Strandjordae Sp. Nov., a Proposed New Species Causing Sepsis

Journal of Clinical Microbiology. Apr, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11283073

We have isolated a gram-positive, weakly acid-alcohol-fast, irregular rod-shaped bacterium from cultures of blood from a 5-year-old girl with acute myelogenous leukemia. This isolate was compared with 14 other strains including reference strains of Tsukamurella species by a polyphasic approach based on physiological and biochemical properties, whole-cell short-chain fatty acid and mycolic acid analyses, DNA-DNA hybridization, and sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene. This isolate represents a new taxon within the genus Tsukamurella for which we propose the name Tsukamurella strandjordae sp. nov. Our study also revealed that Tsukamurella paurometabola ATCC 25938 represents a misnamed Tsukamurella inchonensis isolate and confirms that Tsukamurella wratislaviensis belongs to the genus Rhodococcus.

A Criteria to Classify Biological Activity of Benzimidazoles from a Model of Structural Similarity

Journal of Chemical Information and Computer Sciences. May-Jun, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11410023

We have classified a set of 250 benzimidazoles using a criterion of structural similarity. This criterion has led us to several clusters, which keep a close relationship between the molecules belonging to each one of them and their pharmacological activity. To study the structural similarity we have built a mathematical space where chemical structures are pictured as vectors. A set of well-chosen descriptors was used as variables. These descriptors arise from graph theoretical studies and quantum mechanical calculations. Principal components analysis was employed to find the suitable dimension for the space. Finally, cluster analysis was performed to classify the set of molecules by similarity. A Euclidean metric was used as a similarity coefficient.

Spontaneous Perforation of the Right Hepatic Duct

Hepato-gastroenterology. Jul-Aug, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11490791

Spontaneous perforation of the biliary ductal system is a rare cause of peritonitis with a high morbidity and mortality rate. We present a case of an 80-year-old female who presented to the Emergency Department with acute onset abdominal pain and peritoneal signs. She was taken to the operating room for exploratory laparotomy and discovered to have a perforation of her right hepatic duct. Several risk factors were found to play a role in her biliary perforation: biliary calculi, infection, and vessel thrombosis. She underwent a cholecystectomy, choledochotomy with removal of gallstones, repair of the perforation, and placement of a T-tube. She had a prolonged recovery in the intensive care unit and was eventually discharged to a skilled nursing facility. We conclude that the management of this unique and highly fatal disease can be applied with an excellent outcome.

Bronchial, Alveolar, and Vascular-induced Anaphylaxis and Irritant-induced Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Responses

Environmental Health Perspectives. Aug, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11544156

We examine the respiratory, bronchomotor, cardiac, and vascular responses to histamine and ragweed allergen delivered to the bronchi or alveoli compartments and the potential role of sensory nerves and reflexes mediating the histamine-induced responses. The masses of aerosols deposited in the bronchi and alveoli were quantitated using radioaerosol techniques. Activation of sensory nerves and/or histamine-induced mediator release were characterized by depositing nedocromil sodium aerosol prior to histamine challenge. The histamine-induced responses due to vagosympathetic transmission were determined by performing bilateral vagotomy. Both histamine and ragweed increased respiratory rate, ventilation, and bronchomotor tone whether deposited in the bronchial or alveolar regions. However, these responses were not elicited when histamine was administered intravenously. Precipitous allergen-induced decreases in heart rate and systolic and diastolic pressure were maximal 72 sec following ragweed deposition in alveolar regions of the lungs. Increases in respiratory rate were mediated via the vagus whether delivered to the bronchi, alveoli, or vasculature. Histamine-induced increases in respiratory rate and bronchomotor tone were attenuated by nedocromil. When histamine was delivered to the alveolar regions, increases in lung resistance appeared to be mediated primarily via the vagus and when delivered to the bronchial airways primarily by its action on smooth muscle or local reflexes. Histamine-induced hypotension and bradycardia appear to be mediated by the direct action of histamine on the cardiovascular system rather than through a vagally mediated reflex.

Carpal Collapse in Rheumatoid Arthritis--prevalence and Clinical Significance: a Preliminary Study

The Journal of Rheumatology. Sep, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11550962

To evaluate the prevalence and clinical significance of carpal collapse in Mexican women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Psychometric Comparability of English- and Spanish-language Measures of Anxiety and Related Affective Symptoms

Psychological Assessment. Sep, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11556271

An array of measures of anxiety and related disorders (viz., Albany Panic and Phobia Questionnaire; Anxiety Sensitivity Index; Beck Anxiety Inventory; Beck Depression Inventory-II; Body Sensation Questionnaire; Fear Questionnaire; Padua Inventory; Penn State Worry Questionnaire; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Diagnostic Scale; Social Interaction Anxiety Inventory; and Worry Scale) was edited or translated from English into Spanish. Following an extensive edit and translation process, bilingual participants (n = 98) were assessed with the English and Spanish versions of these measures. Coefficient alphas were excellent and comparable across language versions. Means and standard deviations were also comparable across language versions. Evidence of convergent and discriminant validity was found for both language versions. The two language versions of each measure correlated highly with each other. This psychometric comparability adds confidence in using the newly edited or translated Spanish language measures in clinical practice and research.

Effect of PH and Soybean Cultivars on the Quantitative Analyses of Soybean Rhizobia Populations

Journal of Biotechnology. Oct, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11566395

Quantitative analyses of fast- and slow-growing soybean rhizobia populations in soils of four different provinces of China (Hubei, Shan Dong, Henan, and Xinjiang) have been carried out using the most probable number technique (MPN). All soils contained fast- (FSR) and slow-growing (SSR) soybean rhizobia. Asiatic and American soybean cultivars grown at acid, neutral and alkaline pH were used as trapping hosts for FSR and SSR strains. The estimated total indigenous soybean-rhizobia populations of the Xinjiang and Shan Dong soil samples greatly varied with the different soybean cultivars used. The soybean cultivar and the pH at which plants were grown also showed clear effects on the FSR/SSR rations isolated from nodules. Results of competition experiments between FSR and SSR strains supported the importance of the soybean cultivar and the pH on the outcome of competition for nodulation between FSR and SSR strains. In general, nodule occupancy by FSRs significantly increased at alkaline pH. Bacterial isolates from soybean cultivar Jing Dou 19 inoculated with Xinjiang soil nodulate cultivars Heinong 33 and Williams very poorly. Plasmid and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) profiles and PCR-RAPD analyses showed that cultivar Jing Dou 19 had trapped a diversity of FSR strains. Most of the isolates from soybean cultivar Heinong 33 inoculated with Xinjiang soil were able to nodulate Heinong 33 and Williams showed very similar, or identical, plasmid, LPS and PCR-RAPD profiles. All the strains isolated from Xinjiang province, regardless of the soybean cultivar used for trapping, showed similar nodulation factor (LCO) profiles as judged by thin layer chromatographic analyses. These results indicate that the existence of soybean rhizobia sub-populations showing marked cultivar specificity, can affect the estimation of total soybean rhizobia populations indigenous to the soil, and can also affect the diversity of soybean rhizobial strains isolated from soybean nodules.

Antibiotic Susceptibility of Bacterial Strains Isolated from Patients with Community-acquired Urinary Tract Infections

International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents. Sep, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11673032

Isolates from urine samples obtained during 1999 were identified and their susceptibility to antimicrobial agents studied along with any production of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) by Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. A total of 13774 samples were analysed using an automatic system for the detection of bacterial ATP (Coral, USA). Of these samples, 49% were reported to be positive and uncontaminated; bacteria most frequently isolated were E. coli (47%), Proteus mirabilis (7%), Enterococcus faecalis (6%) and K. pneumoniae (5%). The susceptibility studies showed 37% E. coli strains resistant to amoxycillin+clavulanate 33% to cotrimoxazole and 22% to ciprofloxacin. Seven strains of E. coli produced ESBL. Thirteen per cent of strains were resistant to cefuroxime but only (1%) to fosfomycin. Resistance to nitrofurantoin in K. pneumoniae was 38%. P. mirabilis showed 52% resistance to cotrimoxazole and 13% Staphylococcus aureus, were methicillin-resistant. E. faecalis did not show any special resistance to normal medication. Fosfomycin continued to show high activity against Gram-negative bacilli. However, enterococci, some species of staphylococci and yeasts were difficult to treat empirically. ESBL were detected in the isolates of E. coli and there were some methicillin-resistant strains of S. aureus.

A-315456: a Selective Alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor Antagonist with Minimal Dopamine D(2) and 5-HT(1A) Receptor Affinity

European Journal of Pharmacology. Dec, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11755142

In functional assays, A-315456, N-[3-(cyclohexylidene-(1H-imidazol-4-ylmethyl))phenyl]ethanesulfonamide, behaved as an alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor subtype selective antagonist (pA(2)=8.34) in the rat aorta. It was 83-fold less potent at the alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor subtype expressed in the rat spleen, and was inactive at the alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor subtype expressed in the rat vas deferens. Radioligand binding assays also revealed high affinity (pK(i)=8.71) for the alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor subtype and weaker affinities at the alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor (pK(i)=6.23) and alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor (pK(i)=7.86). In comparison to its potent affinity at the alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor subtype, A-315456 was 3020-, 794- and 38-fold weaker at the dopamine D(2)-, 5-HT(1A)-, and alpha(2a)-adrenoceptors, respectively. These studies indicate that A-315456 is a potent and selective alpha(1D)-antagonist that may serve as a useful pharmacological ligand to probe the physiological role of the alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor subtype in normal and disease states.

Co-inoculation with Bacillus Sp. CECT 450 Improves Nodulation in Phaseolus Vulgaris L

Canadian Journal of Microbiology. Nov, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11766056

The strain Bacillus sp. CECT 450 increased nodulation on bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) when co-inoculated with Rhizobium tropici CIAT 899. This positive effect occured under controlled conditions on perlite-vermiculite, sand, or in a mixture of soil and sand. This increase was also observed in a field assay. Nodulation kinetic studies suggested that the synergistic effect is pronounced during the latter stages of cultivation. In contrast, the same bacteria co-inoculated with Bradyrhizobium japonicum USDA 110 reduced nodulation on soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.). Inoculation with Bacillus sp. CECT 450 alone had no effect on bean plants, but reduced root growth in soybean. The survival of Bacillus sp. CECT 450 on inoculated seeds was high, even when inoculated seeds were maintained for several months at room temperature.

Pharmacological Properties of A-204176, a Novel and Selective Alpha1A Adrenergic Agonist, in in Vitro and in Vivo Models of Urethral Function

Life Sciences. Nov, 2001  |  Pubmed ID: 11787943

A-204176 (N-[5-(1H-imidazol-4-y1)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1-naphthalenyl]methanesulfonamide) is a potent and selective alpha1A adrenoceptor agonist that binds with 17-fold and 9-fold greater affinity to the alpha1A (Ki=176 nM) than the alpha1b and alpha1d subtypes, respectively. In functional studies A-204176 is potent (pD2=6.4) and efficacious (83% of maximum control phenylephrine response) at rabbit urethra alpha1A receptors, with weaker potency and greatly reduced efficacy at rat spleen alpha1B (pD2=5.3, 11%) and rat aorta alpha1D (pD2=4.4, 10%) subtypes. In anesthetized female dogs, A-204176 is more potent than the non-selective alpha1 adrenoceptor agonist phenylpropanolamine (PPA) to increase measures of urethral tone and is more efficacious to increase pressure in the proximal region of the urethra. Significant increases on parameters of the urethral pressure profilometry were induced at 100 and 300 nmol/kg, i.v., by A-204176 and PPA, respectively. A-204176 was more potent than PPA to increase the abdominal pressure required to produce leakage. In the simultaneous measurement of intraurethral pressure and mean arterial blood pressure, A-204176 displays enhanced urethral selectivity relative to PPA. However, despite its selectivity for alpha1A versus alpha1B and alpha1D adrenoceptors in vitro, A-204176 did not display the degree of urethral selectivity in vivo that would have been expected. The observed effect of A-204176 on blood pressure may be due to the presence of extra-synaptic alpha1A adrenoceptors in the vasculature or to activation of spinal and supraspinal alpha1A adrenoceptors. These data indicate that A-204176 may represent a useful pharmacological tool to investigate the functional role of the alpha1A adrenoceptor in the urethra and to elucidate the lack of uroselectivity observed in vivo.

Spontaneous Phasic Activity of the Pig Urinary Bladder Smooth Muscle: Characteristics and Sensitivity to Potassium Channel Modulators

British Journal of Pharmacology. Feb, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 11834611

A hallmark for unstable bladder contractions is hyperexcitability and changes in the nature of spontaneous phasic activity of the bladder smooth muscle. In this study, we have characterized the spontaneous activity of the urinary bladder smooth muscle from the pig, a widely used model for studying human bladder function. Our studies demonstrate that phasic activity of the pig detrusor is myogenic and is influenced by the presence of urothelium. Denuded strips exhibit robust spontaneous activity measured as mean area under the contraction curve (AUC=188.9+/-15.63 mNs) compared to intact strips (AUC=7.3+/-1.94 mNs). Spontaneous phasic activity, particularly the amplitude, is dependent on both calcium entry through voltage-dependent calcium channels and release from ryanodine receptors as shown by inhibition of spontaneous activity by nifedipine and ryanodine respectively. Inhibition of BK(Ca) channels by iberiotoxin (100 nM) resulted in an increase in contraction amplitude (89.1+/-20.4%) and frequency (92.5+/-31.0%). The SK(Ca) channel blocker apamin (100 nM) also increased contraction amplitude (69.1+/-24.3%) and frequency (53.5+/-13.6%) demonstrating that these mechanisms are critical to the regulation of phasic spontaneous activity. Inhibition of K(ATP) channels by glyburide (10 microM) did not significantly alter myogenic contractions (AUC=18.5+/-12.3%). However, K(ATP) channel openers (KCOs) showed an exquisite sensitivity for suppression of spontaneous myogenic activity. KCOs were generally 15 fold more potent in suppressing spontaneous activity compared to contractions evoked by electrical field-stimulation. These studies suggest that potassium channel modulation, particularly K(ATP) channels, may offer a unique mechanism for controlling spontaneous myogenic activity especially those associated with the hyperexcitability occurring in unstable bladders.

T9 Glioma Cells Expressing Membrane-macrophage Colony Stimulating Factor Produce CD4+ T Cell-associated Protective Immunity Against T9 Intracranial Gliomas and Systemic Immunity Against Different Syngeneic Gliomas

Cellular Immunology. Jan, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12142031

Cloned T9 glioma cells (T9-C2) expressing the membrane form of macrophage colony stimulating factor (mM-CSF) inoculated subcutaneously into rats do not grow and glioma-specific immunity is stimulated. Immunotherapy experiments showed that intracranial T9 tumors present for one to four days could be successfully eradicated by peripheral vaccination with T9-C2 cells. CD4+ and CD8+ T splenocytes from immunized rats, when restimulated in vitro with T9 cells, produced interleukin-2 and -4. Protective immunity against intracranial T9 gliomas could only be adoptively transferred into naive rats by the CD4+ splenocytes obtained from T9-C2 immunized rats. Rats immunized by the T9-C2 tumor cells also resisted two different syngeneic gliomas (RT2 and F98) but allowed a syngeneic NUTU-19 ovarian cancer to grow. Such cross-protective immunity against unrelated gliomas suggests that mM-CSF transfected tumor cells have immunotherapeutic potential for use as an allogeneic tumor vaccine.

ABT-866, a Novel Alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor Agonist with Antagonist Properties at the Alpha(1B)- and Alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor Subtypes

European Journal of Pharmacology. Aug, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12163120

N-[3-(1H-Imidazol-4-ylmethyl)phenyl]ethanesulfonamide, maleate (ABT-866) is a novel alpha(1)-adrenoceptor agent with mixed pharmacological properties in vitro. Compared to phenylephrine, ABT-866 demonstrates intrinsic activity at the alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor subtype present in the rabbit urethra (pD(2) = 6.22, with 80% of the phenylephrine response), reduced intrinsic activity at the alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor subtype in the rat spleen (pD(2)= 6.16, with 11% of the phenylephrine response), and no intrinsic activity at the rat aorta alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor subtype. ABT-866 also demonstrated antagonism at the rat spleen alpha(1B)-adrenoceptor (pA(2) = 5.39 +/- 0.08, slope = 1.20 +/- 0.12), and the rat aorta alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor (pA(2)= 6.18 +/- 0.09, slope = 0.96 +/- 0.13). This is in contrast to the weak non-selective activity seen with the alpha(1)-adrenoceptor agonist, phenylpropanolamine (2-amino-1-phenyl-1-propanol hydrochloride), and the alpha(1A/D)-adrenoceptor selective agonist 1-(2',5'-dimethoxyphenyl)-2-aminoethanol hydrochloride (ST-1059), the active metabolite of midodrine, that has been used clinically for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. This study identifies a unique agent that may prove to be a valuable in vivo tool in testing the hypothesis that the alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor can be stimulated to contract the smooth muscle present in the urethra without evoking blood pressure elevations presumably caused by alpha(1B)- and alpha(1D)-adrenoceptor subtype involvements in the vasculature.

DNA Strand-breaks Induced by the Topoisomerase I Inhibitor Camptothecin in Unstimulated Human White Blood Cells

Cell Biology International. 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12175674

Camptothecin (CPT) and actinomicyn-induced strand-breaks, repair and apoptosis in unstimulated human blood cells were studied using the DNA comet assay, and electrophoresis of low molecular weight DNA extracts. On the one hand, incubation of G0 leukocytes for 1 h with CPT induced DNA strand-breaks that were observed using the single cell gel electrophoresis technique. On the other hand, internucleosomal DNA fragments were not observed, suggesting that apoptosis had not occurred. DNA-strand-breaks caused by CPT were repaired 24 h after treatment; the migration of DNA fragments was assessed by a reduction in the number of comets. These data strongly suggest that the unexpected clastogenic effect of this topoisomerase I inhibitor is not due to the collision of the cleavage complex with the replication fork, since replication does not occur in G0. In our opinion, this effect could be due instead to the topoisomerase I enzyme being able to bind DNA in the absence of replication, probably in a way that is not strictly related to the progression of the cell cycle. Thus, CPT does not provoke apoptosis in quiescent leukocytes.

Survival of Several Rhizobium/Bradyrhizobium Strains on Different Inoculant Formulations and Inoculated Seeds

International Microbiology : the Official Journal of the Spanish Society for Microbiology. Jun, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12180784

The effect of a variety factors on the survival of several rhizobia strains on inoculants and inoculated seeds has been evaluated. Since the rhizobia strains showed different cell-density-evolution patterns on peat-based inoculants and on inoculated seeds, several inoculant formulations with highly effective Rhizobium/Bradyrhizobium strains (for Lupinus, Hedysarum, Phaseolus and Glycine max.) were monitored under the following storage conditions: (a) the inoculants were kept refrigerated (at 4 degrees C), or (b) at room temperature (25 degrees C). The effect of water content (30-50%, w/w) in the inoculants as well as that of several seed-coating adhesives were also investigated. Alternative carriers including perlite and vermiculite were tested. For all of the strains, survival on sterile peat-based inoculants was higher than on the corresponding unsterile peat formulation; for the latter, refrigerated storage conditions are recommended to ensure high bacterial densities. The water content of the inoculants had a differential effect on strain survival depending on the sterility of the peat, such that a high water content was more detrimental when unsterilized peat was employed. The best adherent for rhizobia survival was a gum arabic/water solution. Perlite was as effective as peat in maintaining a high population of rhizobia, at least for 6 months of storage.

(-)-(9S)-9-(3-Bromo-4-fluorophenyl)-2,3,5,6,7,9-hexahydrothieno[3,2-b]quinolin-8(4H)-one 1,1-dioxide (A-278637): a Novel ATP-sensitive Potassium Channel Opener Efficacious in Suppressing Urinary Bladder Contractions. I. In Vitro Characterization

The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. Oct, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12235274

Alterations in the myogenic activity of the bladder smooth muscle are thought to serve as a basis for the involuntary detrusor contractions associated with the overactive bladder. Activation of ATP-sensitive K(+) (K(ATP)) channels has been recognized as a potentially viable mechanism to modulate membrane excitability in bladder smooth muscle. In this study, we describe the preclinical pharmacology of (-)-(9S)-9-(3-bromo-4-fluorophenyl)-2,3,5,6,7,9-hexahydrothieno[3,2-b]quinolin-8(4H)-one 1,1-dioxide (A-278637), a novel 1,4-dihydropyridine K(ATP) channel opener (KCO) that demonstrates enhanced bladder selectivity for the suppression of unstable bladder contractions in vivo relative to other reference KCOs. A-278637 activated K(ATP) channels in bladder smooth muscle cells in a glyburide (glibenclamide)-sensitive manner as assessed by fluorescence membrane potential assays using bis-(1,3-dibutylbarbituric acid)trimethine oxonol (EC(50) = 102 nM) and by whole cell patch clamp. Spontaneous (myogenic) phasic activity of pig bladder strips was suppressed (IC(50) = 23 nM) in a glyburide-sensitive manner by A-278637. A-278637 also inhibited carbachol- and electrical field-stimulated contractions of bladder strips, although the respective potencies were 8- and 13-fold lower compared with inhibition of spontaneous phasic activity. As shown in the accompanying article [Brune ME, Fey TA, Brioni JD, Sullivan JP, Williams M, Carroll WA, Coghlan MJ, and Gopalakrishnan M (2002) J Pharmacol Exp Ther 303:387-394], A-278637 suppressed myogenic contractions in vivo in a model of bladder instability with superior selectivity compared with other KCOs, WAY-133537 [(R)-4-[3,4-dioxo-2-(1,2,2-trimethyl-propylamino)cyclobut-1-enylamino]-3-ethyl-benzonitrile] and ZD6169 [(S)-N-(4-benzoylphenyl)3,3,3-trifluro-2hydroxy-2-methyl-priopionamide]. A-278637 did not interact with other ion channels, including L-type calcium channels or other neurotransmitter receptor systems. The pharmacological profile of A-278637 represents an attractive basis for further investigations of selective K(ATP) channel openers for the treatment of overactive bladder via myogenic etiology.

N-[3-(1H-imidazol-4-ylmethyl)phenyl]ethanesulfonamide (ABT-866, 1),(1) a Novel Alpha(1)-adrenoceptor Ligand with an Enhanced in Vitro and in Vivo Profile Relative to Phenylpropanolamine and Midodrine

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. Sep, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12238918

N-[3-(1H-Imidazol-4-ylmethyl)phenyl]ethanesulfonamide (ABT-866, 1) is a novel alpha(1) agent having the unique profile of alpha(1A) (rabbit urethra, EC(50) = 0.60 microM) agonism with alpha(1B) (rat spleen, pA(2) = 5.4) and alpha(1D) (rat aorta, pA(2) = 6.2) antagonism. An in vivo dog model showed 1 to be more selective for the urethra over the vasculature than A-61603 (2), ST-1059 (3, the active metabolite of midodrine), and phenylpropanolamine (4).

Genetics of the Immune Response: Identifying Immune Variation Within the MHC and Throughout the Genome

Immunological Reviews. Dec, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12493007

With the advent of modern genomic sequencing technology the ability to obtain new sequence data and to acquire allelic polymorphism data from a broad range of samples has become routine. In this regard, our investigations have started with the most polymorphic of genetic regions fundamental to the immune response in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Starting with the completed human MHC genomic sequence, we have developed a resource of methods and information that provide ready access to a large portion of human and nonhuman primate MHCs. This resource consists of a set of primer pairs or amplicons that can be used to isolate about 15% of the 4.0 Mb MHC. Essentially similar studies are now being carried out on a set of immune response loci to broaden the usefulness of the data and tools developed. A panel of 100 genes involved in the immune response have been targeted for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) discovery efforts that will analyze 120 Mb of sequence data for the presence of immune-related SNPs. The SNP data provided from the MHC and from the immune response panel has been adapted for use in studies of evolution, MHC disease associations, and clinical transplantation.

Perception Without Awareness: Further Evidence from a Stroop Priming Task

Perception & Psychophysics. Nov, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12519028

In the present research, we examined the influence of prime-target stimulus onset asynchrony (SOA) on Stroop-priming effects from masked words. Participants indicated the color of a central target, which was preceded by a 33-msec prime word followed either immediately or after a variable delay by a pattern mask. The prime word was incongruent or congruent with the target color on 75% and 25% of the trials, respectively. The words followed by an immediate mask produced reliable Stroop interference at SOAs of 300 and 400 msec but not at SOAs of 500 and 700 msec. The words followed by a delayed mask produced a reversed (i.e., facilitatory) Stroop effect, which reached significance at an SOA of 400 msec or longer, but never at the shorter 300-msec SOA. Such an differential time course of both types of Stroop priming effects provides further evidence for the existence of qualitative differences between conscious and nonconscious perceptual processes.

Soils of the Chinese Hubei Province Show a Very High Diversity of Sinorhizobium Fredii Strains

Systematic and Applied Microbiology. Dec, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12583720

Biodiversity studies of native soybean-nodulating rhizobia in soils from the Chinese Hubei province (Honghu county; pH 8, alluvial soil) have been carried out. Inoculation of an American (Williams) and an Asiatic (Peking) soybean cultivar with eleven soil samples led to the isolation of 167 rhizobia strains. The ratio (%) of slow-/fast-growing isolates was different depending on the trap plant used. All isolates were able to nodulate both cultivars, although the N2-fixation efficiency (measured as plant-top dry weight) was different among them. A total of thirty-three isolates were selected for further characterisation on the basis of physiological parameters, PCR-RFLP of symbiotic genes and Low Molecular Weight RNA, lipopolysaccharide, protein and plasmid profiles. Low Molecular Weight RNA profiling indicates that all the isolates belong to species Sinorhizobium fredii. The dendrogram obtained with the physiological parameters has been useful to classify the isolates at strain level, although plasmid profiling was the most discriminating technique to detect differences among the analysed soybean-rhizobia isolates, showing there is not two isolates identical each other. Plasmid profile analyses also revealed that some of the investigated strains contain low molecular weight plasmids (7-8-kb). They are, to our knowledge, the smallest ever found in rhizobia and they could be the starting point for the construction of the first group of vectors based on a native rhizobia replicon.

Bare Bones Laparoscopy: a Randomized Prospective Trial of Cost Savings in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy

Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques. Part A. Dec, 2002  |  Pubmed ID: 12590721

Rising costs and lowered reimbursements make value essential if laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is to be offered to patients without condemning providers to financial loss. We hypothesize that our protocol increases this value. Once practiced, operative time, complications, and patient satisfaction compare with those of the typical method.

Lack of Association Between Hyperprolactinemia and Soluble IL-2 Receptor Levels in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Lupus. 2003  |  Pubmed ID: 12630754

The aim of the study was to evaluate the association between hyperprolactinemia and T lymphocyte activation through the soluble IL-2 receptor (sIL-2R) in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Seventy SLE patients, 18 of them with hyperprolactinemia (HPRL), were compared with 18 normoprolactinemic (NPRL) patients and 10 age-matched healthy blood-bank donor women. Patients were evaluated by means of the SLE activity index (SLEDAI). Total serum IgG and sIL-2R levels were determined by an ELISA assay. Differences between sIL-2R and IgG serum levels in patients and controls were examined by Kruskal-Wallis analysis and a Spearman r correlation to determine the association between sIL-2R, IgG and prolactin (PRL) levels. IgG and sIL-2R serum levels did not differ significantly between HPRL and NPRL patients: 1827.3 (1428-2226) vs 2028.8 (1586-2467) mg/dl and 882.2 (511-1254) vs 740.1 (534-946.4) U/ml, respectively (confidence interval 95%). In the total SLE group, sIL-2R and IgG serum levels were positively associated (P = 0.0009), however, this was not the case for sIL-2R and PRL (P > 0.49). We did not demonstrate an association between HPRL and lymphocyte activation measured through serum sIL-2R in female patients with SLE.

Cajal-Retzius Cells in the Mouse: Transcription Factors, Neurotransmitters, and Birthdays Suggest a Pallial Origin

Brain Research. Developmental Brain Research. Mar, 2003  |  Pubmed ID: 12644247

Cajal-Retzius cells are reelin-secreting neurons found in the marginal zone of the mammalian cortex during development. Recently, it has been proposed that Cajal-Retzius cells may be generated both early and late in corticogenesis, and may migrate into the cortex from proliferative zones in the subpallium (lateral ganglionic eminence and medial ganglionic eminence) or cortical hem. In the present study, we used reelin as a marker to study the properties of Cajal-Retzius cells, including their likely origins, neurotransmitters, and birthdates. In double labeling experiments, Cajal-Retzius cells (reelin(+)) expressed transcription factors characteristic of pallial neurons (Tbr1 and Emx2), contained high levels of glutamate, were usually calretinin(+), and were born early in corticogenesis, on embryonic days (E)10.5 and E11.5. Tbr1(+) cells in the marginal zone were almost always reelin(+). The first Cajal-Retzius cells (Tbr1(+)/reelin(+)) appeared in the preplate on E10.5. In contrast, interneurons expressed a subpallial transcription factor (Dlx), contained high levels of GABA, were frequently calbindin(+), and were born throughout corticogenesis (from E10.5 to E16.5). Interneurons (Dlx(+)) first appeared in the cortex on E12.5. Our results suggest that the marginal zone contains two main types of neurons: Cajal-Retzius cells derived from the pallium, and migrating interneurons derived from the subpallium.

Structure-activity Relationship of a Novel Class of Naphthyl Amide KATP Channel Openers

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters. May, 2003  |  Pubmed ID: 12729655

We have discovered a novel series of N-[2-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1-trifluoromethyl-ethyl)-naphthalen-1-yl] amides that are potent openers of K(ATP) channels and investigated structure-activity relationships (SAR) around the 1,2-disubstituted naphthyl core. A-151892, a prototype compound of this series, was found to be a potent and efficacious potassium channel opener in vitro in transfected Kir6.2/SUR2B cells and pig bladder strips. Additionally, A-151892 was found to selectively inhibit unstable bladder contractions in vivo in an obstructed rat model of myogenic bladder function

[Mucolipidoses Type II. Case Report]

Revista Médica De Chile. Mar, 2003  |  Pubmed ID: 12790082

We report a female newborn with type II mucolipidoses. This condition is characterized clinically by Hurler like features, progressive psychomotor retardation and death during the first or second year of life. Most cases present during the first year of life, with poor weight gain and coarse facies features. The cause of this rare autosomal recessive hereditary disease is the deficiency of the enzyme N-acetylglucosamine-1-phosphotransferase, required for the synthesis of mannose-6-phosphate, the ligand that allows the transport of acid hydrolases into lysosomes. The patient had clinical features commonly found in mucolipidosis II, including disproportionate dwarfism, retarded psychomotor development, coarse facies features, gibbous and restricted joint mobility. The diagnosis was proved by an extremely elevated activity of lysosomal enzymes in the serum, secondary to non-regulated secretion and subsequent intracellular depletion of these proteins. The child suffered recurrent pneumonia and died at 22 months of age.

Effect of Vitamin E Supplementation and Partial Substitution of Poly- with Mono-unsaturated Fatty Acids in Pig Diets on Muscle, and Microsome Extract Alpha-tocopherol Concentration and Lipid Oxidation

Archiv Für Tierernährung. Feb, 2003  |  Pubmed ID: 12801076

The experiment was organized in a 3 x 2 factorial arrangement with three dietary fat blends and a basal (20 mg kg(-1) diet) or supplemented (220 mg kg(-1)) level of alpha-tocopheryl acetate. Dietary vitamin E and monounsaturated to polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio (dietary MUFA/PUFA) affected muscle alpha-tocopherol concentration (alpha-tocopherol [log microg g(-1)] = 0.18 (+/- 0.105) + 0.0034 (+/- 0.0003) x dietary alpha-tocopherol [mg kg(-1) diet] (P < 0.0001) + 0.39 (+/- 0.122) x dietary MUFA/PUFA (P < 0.0036)). An interaction between dietary alpha-tocopherol and dietary MUFA/PUFA exists for microsome alpha-tocopherol concentration (alpha-tocopherol [log microg g(-1)] = 1.14 ( +/- 0.169) (P < 0.0001) + 0.0056 ( +/- 0.00099) x dietary alpha-tocopherol [mg kg(-1) diet] (P <0.0001) + 0.54 (+/- 0.206) x dietary MUFA/PUFA (P < 0.0131) - 0.0033 (+/- 0.0011) x dietary alpha-tocopherol [mg kg(-1))] x dietary MUFA/PUFA (P < 0.0067)), and hexanal concentration in meat (hexanal [ng x g(-1)] = 14807.9 (+/- 1489.8)- 28.8 (+/- 10.6) dietary alpha-tocopherol [mg x kg(-1)] (P < 0.01) - 8436.6 (+/- 1701.6) x dietary MUFA/PUFA (P < 0.001) + 24.0 (+/- 11.22) x dietary alpha-tocopherol-dietary MUFA/ PUFA (P < 0.0416)). It is concluded that partial substitution of dietary PUFA with MUFA lead to an increase in the concentration of alpha-tocopherol in muscle and microsome extracts. An interaction between dietary alpha-tocopherol and fatty acids exists, in which at low level of dietary vitamin E inclusion, a low MUFA/ PUFA ratio leads to a reduction in the concentration of alpha-tocopherol in microsome extracts and a concentration of hexanal in meat above the expected values.

Beyond Laminar Fate: Toward a Molecular Classification of Cortical Projection/pyramidal Neurons

Developmental Neuroscience. Mar-Aug, 2003  |  Pubmed ID: 12966212

Cortical projection neurons exhibit diverse morphological, physiological, and molecular phenotypes, but it is unknown how many distinct types exist. Many projection cell phenotypes are associated with laminar fate (radial position), but each layer may also contain multiple types of projection cells. We have investigated two hypotheses: (1) that different projection cell types exhibit characteristic molecular expression profiles and (2) that laminar fates are determined primarily by molecular phenotype. We found that several transcription factors were differentially expressed by projection neurons, even within the same layer: Otx1 and Er81, for example, were expressed by different neurons in layer 5. Retrograde tracing showed that Er81 was expressed in corticospinal and corticocortical neurons. In contrast, Otx1 has been detected only in corticobulbar neurons [Weimann et al., Neuron 1999;24:819-831]. Birthdating demonstrated that different molecularly defined types were produced sequentially, in overlapping waves. Cells adopted laminar fates characteristic of their molecular phenotypes, regardless of cell birthday. Molecular markers also revealed the locations of different projection cell types in the malformed cortex of reeler mice. These studies suggest that molecular profiles can be used advantageously for classifying cortical projection cells, for analyzing their neurogenesis and fate specification, and for evaluating cortical malformations.

Immunotherapy with a Depigmented, Polymerized Vaccine of Olea Europaea Pollen Allergens. Significantly Reduces Specific Bronchial and Skin Test Reactivity in Sensitized Patients After One Year of Treatment

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology : Official Organ of the International Association of Asthmology (INTERASMA) and Sociedad Latinoamericana De Alergia E Inmunología. 2003  |  Pubmed ID: 12968395

Clinical manifestations after the inhalation of Olea europaea pollen are very frequent in Spain. Forty-five patients with a clinical history of asthma and sensitivity to O. europaea pollen were included in a randomized trial to evaluate the safety and the clinical efficacy of immunotherapy with a new chemically modified extract (depigmented and glutaraldehyde-polymerized) of Olea europaea. The study was conducted following good clinical practices and appropriate consent forms were signed. Patients were divided into three groups of 15 individuals: Group A received a maximum concentration of 44 micrograms/ml of the depigmented, polymerized allergen extract (equivalent to 100 HEPL of the native unmodified extract). Group B received 10 times less; Group C did not receive any specific immunotherapy. Any adverse event was recorded to assess safety. Efficacy was evaluated by measuring the amount of allergen needed to elicit a positive response in specific bronchial challenges before and after 12 months of immunotherapy. The treatment schedule consisted of an incremental phase of five injections and a maintenance dosage of 0.5 ml per month. Each patient received a total of 14 injections during this period. No moderate or serious adverse events related to immunotherapy were recorded. At the beginning of the study, no significant differences were observed between the three groups in specific bronchial hyperreactivity (p > 0.05). A significant difference (p < 0.05) was obtained after 12 months. Patients in Group A needed four times more native unmodified allergen than Group C to elicit the same degree of bronchoconstriction. The analysis of the individual groups before and after 12 months of treatment showed that patients in Groups B and C did not improve. Patients in Group A showed a significant improvement (p < 0.05) in specific bronchial hyperreactivity, and at the end of the study needed 5.5 times more native unmodified allergen to obtain the same degree of bronchial response as in the beginning. Depigmented and glutaraldehyde-polymerized vaccines of Olea europaea pollen are very safe for treating patients with asthma and clinical sensitivity to allergens of this pollen. The clinical efficacy of this new allergen vaccine seems to be dose-dependent as shown by specific bronchial challenges as well as by symptom and medication scores. These modified extracts induce protection against unmodified native allergens.

Semantic Activation in the Absence of Perceptual Awareness

Perception & Psychophysics. Nov, 2003  |  Pubmed ID: 14710964

Participants performed a semantic categorization task on a target that was preceded by a prime word belonging either to the same category (20% of trials) or to a different category (80% of trials). The prime was presented for 33 msec and followed either immediately or after a delay by a pattern mask. With the immediate mask, reaction times (RTs) were shorter on related than on unrelated trials. This facilitatory priming reached significance at prime-target stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs) of 400 msec or less and remained unaffected by task practice. With the delayed mask, RTs were longer on related than on unrelated trials. This reversed (strategic) semantic priming proved to be significant (1) only at a prime-target SOA of 400 msec or longer and (2) after the participants had some practice with the task. The present findings provide further evidence that perceiving a stimulus with and without phenomenological awareness can lead to qualitatively different behavioral consequences.

Postnatal Shifts of Interneuron Position in the Neocortex of Normal and Reeler Mice: Evidence for Inward Radial Migration

Neuroscience. 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 14980731

During development, interneurons migrate to precise positions in the cortex by tangential and radial migration. The objectives of this study were to characterize the net radial migrations of interneurons during the first postnatal week, and to investigate the role of reelin signaling in regulating those migrations. To observe radial migrations, we compared the laminar positions of interneurons (immunoreactive for GABA or Dlx) in mouse neocortex on postnatal days (P) 0.5 and P7.5. In addition, we used bromodeoxyuridine birthdating to reveal the migrations of different interneuron cohorts. To study the effects of reelin deficiency, experiments were performed in reeler mutant mice. In normal P0.5 cortex, interneurons were most abundant in the marginal zone and layer 5. By P7.5, interneurons were least abundant in the marginal zone, and were distributed more evenly in the cortical plate. This change was attributed mainly to inward migration of middle- to late-born interneurons (produced on embryonic days (E) 13.5 to E16.5) from the marginal zone to layers 2-5. During the same interval, late-born projection neurons (non-immunoreactive for GABA or Dlx) migrated mainly outward, from the intermediate zone to upper cortical layers. In reeler cortex, middle- and late-born interneurons migrated from the superplate on P0.5, to the deep cortical plate on P7.5. Late-born projection neurons in reeler migrated in the opposite direction, from the intermediate zone to the deep cortical plate. We conclude that many middle- and late-born interneurons migrate radially inward, from the marginal zone (or superplate) to the cortical plate, during the first postnatal week in normal and reeler mice. We propose that within the cortical plate, interneuron laminar positions may be determined in part by interactions with projection neurons born on the same day in neurogenesis.

Functional Characterization of Large Conductance Calcium-activated K+ Channel Openers in Bladder and Vascular Smooth Muscle

Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology. May, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15095032

Calcium activated K(+) channels (K(Ca) channels) are found in a variety of smooth muscle tissues, the most characterized of which are the large conductance K(Ca) channels (BK(Ca) or maxi-K(+) channels). Recent medicinal chemistry efforts have identified novel BK(Ca) openers including 2-amino-5-(2-fluoro-phenyl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrrole-3-carbonitrile (NS-8), BMS-204352 and its analog 3-(5-chloro-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-hydroxy-6-trifluoromethyl-1,3-dihydro-indol-2-one (compound 1), and 5,7-dichloro-4-(5-chloro-2-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-hydroxy-1H-quinolin-2-one (compound 2). Although these compounds are effective BK(Ca) openers as shown by electrophysiological methods, little is known about their effects on smooth muscle contractility. In this study, the responsiveness of structurally diverse BK(Ca) openers-NS-8, compounds 1 and 2 and the well characterized nonselective NS-1619-was assessed using segments of endothelium denuded rat aorta, rat and guinea pig detrusor precontracted with extracellular K(+), and Landrace pig detrusor stimulated by electrical field. In all preparations, the compounds tested inhibited or completely abolished contractions with similar potencies (-logIC(50) values: 3.8 to 5.1). In rat aorta, in the presence of 80 mM K(+), the compounds significantly shifted the concentration-response curve to the right compared with those obtained in 30 mM K(+). These data are consistent with K(+) channel (BK(Ca) channel) activation as the underlying mechanism of relaxation by compounds that share the electrophysiological property of BK(Ca) current activation. The similar potencies at detrusor and vascular smooth muscle suggest that the achievement of smooth muscle selectivity in vitro with the representative compounds examined in this study may prove to be a challenge when targeting BK(Ca) channels for smooth muscle indications such as overactive bladder.

Nosocomial Bacteremia and Urinary Tract Infections Caused by Extended-spectrum Beta -lactamase-producing Klebsiella Pneumoniae with Plasmids Carrying Both SHV-5 and TLA-1 Genes

Clinical Infectious Diseases : an Official Publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Apr, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15095209

We describe the prevalence and molecular characteristics of extended-spectrum beta -lactamase (ESBL)-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae causing nosocomial bacteremia and urinary tract infections in a Mexican general hospital. We analyzed 82 episodes of bacteremia (approximately 60% of episodes) and urinary tract infection (approximately 40% of episodes) due to K. pneumoniae during a 23-month surveillance period. The neonatal intensive care unit accounted for 49% of all episodes. All strains were imipenem susceptible; 62.2% of the strains were resistant to ceftazidime, cefotaxime, and aztreonam; 69.5% were resistant to amikacin; 58.5% were resistant to gentamicin; and 7.3% were resistant to ciprofloxacin. All strains were associated with 28 pulsed-field gel electrophoresis patterns, and dissemination of 2 ceftazidime-resistant clones produced 44% of the cases. The ESBL phenotype in these clones was transferred by identical or highly related megaplasmids. The ESBL activity corresponded to SHV-5 and TLA-1. Cross-transmission of 2 ceftazidime-resistant clones and the horizontal spread of identical or highly related megaplasmids explain the high prevalence of ESBL phenotype in these infections.

False-positive Human Immunodeficiency Virus Test and Trypanosoma Cruzi Infection in Eastern Colombia

Southern Medical Journal. Apr, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15108844

Synthesis and Structure-activity Relationships of a Novel Series of 2,3,5,6,7,9-hexahydrothieno[3,2-b]quinolin-8(4H)-one 1,1-dioxide K(ATP) Channel Openers: Discovery of (-)-(9S)-9-(3-bromo-4-fluorophenyl)-2,3,5,6,7,9- Hexahydrothieno[3,2-b]quinolin-8(4H)-one 1,1-dioxide (A-278637), a Potent K(ATP) Opener That Selectively Inhibits Spontaneous Bladder Contractions

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. Jun, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15163196

Structure-activity relationships were investigated on a novel series of sulfonyldihydropyridine-containing K(ATP) openers. Ring sizes, absolute stereochemistry, and aromatic substitution were evaluated for K(ATP) activity in guinea pig bladder cells using a fluorescence-based membrane potential assay and in a pig bladder strip assay. The inhibition of spontaneous bladder contractions in vitro was also examined for a select group of compounds. All compounds studied showed greater potency to inhibit spontaneous bladder contractions relative to their potencies to inhibit contractions elicited by electrical stimulation. In an anesthetized pig model of myogenic bladder overactivity, compound 14 and (-)-cromakalim 1 were found to inhibit spontaneous bladder contractions in vivo at plasma concentrations lower than those that affected hemodynamic parameters. Compound 14 showed approximately 5-fold greater selectivity than 1 in vivo and supports the concept that bladder-selective K(ATP) channel openers may have utility in the treatment of overactive bladder.

Synthesis and Structure-activity Relationships of a Novel Series of Tricyclic Dihydropyridine-based KATP Openers That Potently Inhibit Bladder Contractions in Vitro

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. Jun, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15163197

Structure-activity relationships were investigated on a novel series of tricyclic dihydropyridine-containing K(ATP) openers. This diverse group of analogues, comprising a variety of heterocyclic rings fused to the dihydropyridine nucleus, was designed to determine the influence on activity of hydrogen-bond-donating and -accepting groups and their stereochemical disposition. Compounds were evaluated for K(ATP) activity in guinea pig bladder cells using a fluorescence-based membrane potential assay and in a pig bladder strip assay. The inhibition of spontaneous bladder contractions in vitro was also examined for a subset of compounds. All compounds studied showed greater potency to inhibit spontaneous bladder contractions relative to their potencies to inhibit contractions elicited by electrical stimulation.

Synthesis and Structure-activity Studies on N-[5-(1H-imidazol-4-yl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1-naphthalenyl]methanesulfonamide, an Imidazole-containing Alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor Agonist

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. Jun, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15163201

Structure-activity studies were performed on the alpha(1A)-adrenoceptor (AR) selective agonist N-[5-(1H-imidazol-4-yl)-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-1-naphthalenyl]methanesulfonamide (4). Compounds were evaluated for binding activity at the alpha(1A), alpha(1b), alpha(1d), alpha(2a), and alpha(2B) subtypes. Functional activity in tissues containing the alpha(1A) (rabbit urethra), alpha(1B) (rat spleen), alpha(1D) (rat aorta), and alpha(2A) (rat prostatic vas deferens) was also evaluated. A dog in vivo model simultaneously measuring intraurethral pressure (IUP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) was used to assess the uroselectivity of the compounds. Many of the compounds that were highly selective in vitro for the alpha(1A)-AR subtype were also more uroselective in vivo for increasing IUP over MAP than the nonselective alpha(1)-agonists phenylpropanolamine (PPA) (1) and ST-1059 (2, the active metabolite of midodrine), supporting the hypothesis that greater alpha(1A) selectivity would reduce cardiovascular side effects. However, the data also support a prominent role of the alpha(1A)-AR subtype in the control of MAP.

The Comet Assay Differentiates Efficiently and Rapidly Between Genotoxins and Cytotoxins in Quiescent Cells

Cell Biology International. 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15261156

Our main aim was to establish the efficiency of the single cell electrophoresis technique for differentiating between drugs that bind DNA and those that do not. The alkaline comet assay was used to test the responses of human leukocytes (quiescent cells) to damage induced by reportedly genotoxic and reportedly cytotoxic agents. Incubation of G0 leukocytes for 1 h with the genotoxic agents camptothecin and actinomycin C provoked DNA migration, observed as comet figures. On the other hand, when cells were treated with the cytotoxic agents cordycepin, fluorodeoxyuridine and puromycin, the leukocyte nuclei were indistinguishable from those of untreated cells. In addition, we have developed a rapid method using non-proliferating cells that requires neither culture nor lymphocyte isolation. This method promises to be useful as a rapid in vitro screening assay.

In Vitro and in Vivo Characterization of a Novel Naphthylamide ATP-sensitive K+ Channel Opener, A-151892

British Journal of Pharmacology. Sep, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15302680

1. Openers of ATP-sensitive K(+) channels are of interest in several therapeutic indications including overactive bladder and other lower urinary tract disorders. This study reports on the in vitro and in vivo characterization of a structurally novel naphthylamide N-[2-(2,2,2-trifluoro-1-hydroxy-1-trifluoromethyl-ethyl)-naphthalen-1-yl]-acetamide (A-151892), as an opener of the ATP-sensitive potassium channels. 2. A-151892 was found to be a potent and efficacious potassium channel opener (KCO) as assessed by glibenclamide-sensitive whole-cell current and fluorescence-based membrane potential responses (-log EC(50)=7.63) in guinea-pig bladder smooth muscle cells. 3. Evidence for direct interaction with KCO binding sites was derived from displacement of binding of the 1,4-dihydropyridine opener [(125)I]A-312110. A-151892 displaced [(125)I]A-312110 binding to bladder membranes with a -log Ki value of 7.45, but lacked affinity against over 70 neurotransmitter receptor and ion channel binding sites. 4. In pig bladder strips, A-151892 suppressed phasic, carbachol-evoked and electrical field stimulus-evoked contractility in a glibenclamide-reversible manner with -log IC(50) values of 8.07, 7.33 and 7.02 respectively, comparable to that of the potencies of the prototypical cyanoguanidine KCO, P1075. The potencies to suppress contractions in thoracic aorta (-log IC(50)=7.81) and portal vein (-log IC(50)=7.98) were not substantially different from those observed for suppression of phasic contractility of the bladder smooth muscle. 5. In vivo, A-151892 was found to potently suppress unstable bladder contractions in obstructed models of unstable contractions in both pigs and rats with pED(35%) values of 8.05 and 7.43, respectively. 6. These results demonstrate that naphthylamide analogs exemplified by A-151892 are novel K(ATP) channel openers and may serve as chemotypes to exploit additional analogs with potential for the treatment of overactive bladder and lower urinary tract symptoms.

Prolonged Survival of an HIV-infected Patient with Multidrug-resistant Mycobacterium Bovis Infection Treated with Surgical Resection

Clinical Infectious Diseases : an Official Publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Sep, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15472802

We describe a case of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis due to Mycobacterium bovis in a human immunodeficiency virus-infected woman with good immunologic status. The patient presented with a hard mass measuring 10 cm in diameter on the lower left ribs and a lung nodule measuring 3 cm in diameter in the left superior lobe. No adequate pharmacological treatment was available. Both lesions were surgically resected. The patient has remained asymptomatic (without fever, cough, lymphadenopathy, or cutaneous masses) for 20 months, after discharge from the hospital.

Species Comparison and Pharmacological Characterization of Rat and Human CB2 Cannabinoid Receptors

European Journal of Pharmacology. Nov, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15556131

Pharmacological effects of cannabinoid ligands are thought to be mediated through cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptor subtypes. Sequence analysis revealed that rat and human cannabinoid CB2 receptors are divergent and share 81% amino acid homology. Pharmacological analysis of the possible species differences between rat and human cannabinoid CB2 receptors was performed using radioligand binding and functional assays. Pronounced species selectivity at the rat cannabinoid CB2 receptor (50- to 140-fold) was observed with AM-1710 (3-(1,1-Dimethyl-heptyl)-1-hydroxy-9-methoxy-benzo[c]chromen-6-one) and AM-1714 (3-(1,1-Dimethyl-heptyl)-1-9-dihydroxy-benzo[c]chromen-6-one). In contrast, JWH-015 ((2-Methyl-1-propyl-1H-indol-3-yl)-napthalen-1-yl-methanone) was 3- to 10-fold selective at the human cannabinoid CB2 receptor. Endocannabinoid ligands were more human receptor selective. Cannabinoid CB2 receptor antagonist, AM-630 ((6-Iodo-2-methyl-1-(2-morpholin-4-yl-ethyl)-1H-indol-3-yl)-(4-methoxy-phenyl)-methanone) was more potent at the rat receptor in radioligand binding and functional assays than that of the human receptor. The findings of the pharmacological differences between the human and rat cannabinoid CB2 receptors in this study provide critical information for characterizing cannabinoid ligands in in vivo rodent models for drug discovery purpose.

Corticotropin-releasing Hormone and Urocortin: Redundant or Distinctive Functions?

Brain Research. Brain Research Reviews. Dec, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15572167

Neuropeptides play important roles in synaptic transmission. Among them, the peptides of the corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) family present interesting features. The two main mammalian peptides of this family, CRH and urocortin (UCN), signal through the same receptors, CRH-R1 and CRH-R2. The question arises as to whether these peptides have redundant or distinctive functions. The fact that CRH and UCN have high affinity for both receptors has hampered the possibility to define the functional contribution of each peptide. Recent studies conducted on mice deficient in CRH, CRH-R1, CRH-R2 and CRH-R1/CRH-R2, as well as in two different UCN-deficient mice, have added relevant information towards the understanding of the role of this peptide family in the CNS. Our new anatomical evidence of UCN expression in the septum will be discussed in this context.

[Therapeutic Guide to Primary Care Based on the Evidence, 2nd Edition: an Honest and Practical Work]

Atencion Primaria / Sociedad Española De Medicina De Familia Y Comunitaria. Dec, 2004  |  Pubmed ID: 15607051

Pax6, Tbr2, and Tbr1 Are Expressed Sequentially by Radial Glia, Intermediate Progenitor Cells, and Postmitotic Neurons in Developing Neocortex

The Journal of Neuroscience : the Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience. Jan, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 15634788

The developing neocortex contains two types of progenitor cells for glutamatergic, pyramidal-projection neurons. The first type, radial glia, produce neurons and glia, divide at the ventricular surface, and express Pax6, a homeodomain transcription factor. The second type, intermediate progenitor cells, are derived from radial glia, produce only neurons, and divide away from the ventricular surface. Here we show that the transition from radial glia to intermediate progenitor cell is associated with upregulation of Tbr2, a T-domain transcription factor, and downregulation of Pax6. Accordingly, Tbr2 expression in progenitor compartments (the subventricular zone and ventricular zone) rises and falls with cortical plate neurogenesis. The subsequent transition from intermediate progenitor cell to postmitotic neuron is marked by downregulation of Tbr2 and upregulation of Tbr1, another T-domain transcription factor. These findings delineate the transcription factor sequence Pax6 --> Tbr2 --> Tbr1 in the differentiation of radial glia --> intermediate progenitor cell --> postmitotic projection neuron. This transcription factor sequence is modified in preplate neurons, in which Tbr2 is transiently coexpressed with Tbr1, and in the direct differentiation pathway from radial glia --> postmitotic projection neuron, in which Tbr2 is expressed briefly or not at all.

Understanding the Associations Among Education, Employment Characteristics, and Smoking

Addictive Behaviors. Jun, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 15893088

The current study examined the association between education level and smoking status in a community-based sample of working adults. Participants were enrolled at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center site of a cancer risk behavior reduction intervention delivered at the worksite. There was a strong educational gradient in smoking status. The prevalence of current smoking was almost threefold higher among individuals with

Natural Expression of Immature Ucn Antisense RNA in the Rat Brain. Evidence Favoring Bidirectional Transcription of the Ucn Gene Locus

Brain Research. Molecular Brain Research. Sep, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 15979199

Recently, it has been shown the endogenous expression of an antisense urocortin (Ucn) transcript in the rat brain and other tissues. In the present work, by means of two complementary techniques, specific-strand RT-PCR and in situ hybridization, we showed the natural expression of a second novel antisense Ucn RNA of higher size. Specific-strand RT-PCR of total RNA, cloning and sequence analysis together with the different subcellular localization observed for both antisense Ucn RNAs indicated that this novel antisense Ucn transcript corresponded to the immature form of the previously described antisense Ucn RNA. Sequence analysis indicated that this immature antisense Ucn transcript uses non-consensus CT-AC splice sites, exactly complementary to its sense counterpart. The mature antisense Ucn transcript was also amplified after specific-strand RT-PCR of poly(A)-RNA, suggesting that the mature antisense Ucn transcript is polyadenylated. We also proved that the region complementary to the promoter of sense Ucn RNA, including the TATA box, is part of the antisense Ucn RNA. Finally, we showed that the region complementary to the 3'-end of Ucn mRNA behaves as a functional promoter for the transcription of antisense Ucn RNA. Thus, the results indicate that the 3'-ends of both sense and antisense Ucn RNAs are the only non-complementary sequences between them. In conclusion, the present findings suggest that the Ucn gene locus naturally undergoes bidirectional transcription yielding a sense and an antisense RNA expanding the spectrum of antisense RNAs originated from the same genomic loci to antisense transcripts that are spliced using these non-consensus CT-AC splice sites.

Labyrinthitis Secondary to Experimental Otitis Media

American Journal of Otolaryngology. Jul-Aug, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 15991087

Analysis of labyrinthitis in a model of otitis media.

Genome Sequence, Comparative Analysis and Haplotype Structure of the Domestic Dog

Nature. Dec, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 16341006

Here we report a high-quality draft genome sequence of the domestic dog (Canis familiaris), together with a dense map of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) across breeds. The dog is of particular interest because it provides important evolutionary information and because existing breeds show great phenotypic diversity for morphological, physiological and behavioural traits. We use sequence comparison with the primate and rodent lineages to shed light on the structure and evolution of genomes and genes. Notably, the majority of the most highly conserved non-coding sequences in mammalian genomes are clustered near a small subset of genes with important roles in development. Analysis of SNPs reveals long-range haplotypes across the entire dog genome, and defines the nature of genetic diversity within and across breeds. The current SNP map now makes it possible for genome-wide association studies to identify genes responsible for diseases and traits, with important consequences for human and companion animal health.

Captopril Effect on Prostaglandin E2, Thromboxane B2 and Proteinuria in Lupus Nephritis Patients

Prostaglandins & Other Lipid Mediators. Dec, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 16303616

High urinary Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and thromboxane B2 (TxB2) levels have been reported in lupus nephritis (LN). Captopril diminishes proteinuria and improves glomerular filtration rate (GFR), and may have effect on immune function. We evaluate captopril effect on urinary PGE2, and TxB2.

Feeding Level in the Period Previous to the Late Fattening Phase Influences Fat Composition at Slaughter in Free-ranged Iberian Pigs

Archives of Animal Nutrition. Aug, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 16320811

A group of 11 pigs was fed with 70 g feed per kg of metabolic weight (H pigs) and another group of 11 pigs was fed with 50g feed per kg of metabolic weight (L pigs). In both experimental groups (H and L pigs), it was observed that the higher initial proportion of C16:0, C18:0 and C18:2 (n-6) in backfat at the beginning of the free-range feeding period, the greater decrease rate of these fatty acid proportions regarding weight gain during the free-range fattening period took place. On the other hand, the greater initial proportion of C18:1 (n-9), the smaller increase rate in the concentration of this fatty acid was observed. The intramuscular neutral lipids from L pigs had higher C18:3 (n-3) and lower proportions of monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) than those from H pigs, while intramuscular polar lipids from L pigs had significantly higher proportions of C18:0, PUFA, C18:3 (n-3) and (n-3) and significantly lower MUFA and C18:1 (n-9) proportions than those from H pigs. The alpha-tocopherol concentration found in Longissimus dorsi from L pigs was significantly higher (p < 0.012) than those from H pigs.

Categorizing Race Among Hispanic Smokers

Cancer Control : Journal of the Moffitt Cancer Center. Nov, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 16327756

Effect of Dietary Vitamin E and Partial Replacement of Poly- with Monounsaturated Fat on Fatty Acid Patterns of Backfat and Intramuscular Fat in Heavy Pigs (Iberian X Duroc)

Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition. Feb, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 19112711

The effects of partial replacement of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) with monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) on fatty acid profiles of subcutaneous and intramuscular fat and rheological properties of fat were studied in heavy pigs. No effect of dietary fat was observed on total saturated fatty acids proportion in outer and inner backfat layers or intramuscular neutral and polar lipids. The partial substitution of dietary PUFA by MUFA produced a rise in MUFA of intramuscular polar lipids (p < 0.01) but neutral lipids were not affected. Moreover, it also decreased (p < 0.01) the n-6 proportion of outer and inner backfat layers and intramuscular polar lipids, but no effect was observed for the n-6 in the intramuscular neutral lipids. No significant effect of dietary fat treatment was observed on n-3 fatty acids in outer and inner backfat layers, but the partial substitution of PUFA by MUFA increased (p < 0.01) the n-3 proportion of intramuscular lipid fractions and the consequent decreased in the n-6/n-3 ratio in all lipid location. Significant effects of dietary vitamin E were observed on springiness, cohesiveness and adhesiveness of backfat inner layer. However, consistency was not affected by dietary fat. Further research is needed to establish the effects of different ranges of dietary oil combination in the feeding of heavy pigs.

What Accounts for the Association of Education and Smoking Cessation?

Preventive Medicine. Apr, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 15530598

Education has been identified as a potent sociodemographic predictor of smoking cessation and the Healthy People 2010 goals include the elimination of health disparities attributable to education.

Effects of Feeding in Free-range Conditions or in Confinement with Different Dietary MUFA/PUFA Ratios and α-tocopheryl Acetate, on Antioxidants Accumulation and Oxidative Stability in Iberian Pigs

Meat Science. Jan, 2005  |  Pubmed ID: 22062651

The experiment was undertaken to provide information of the influence of feeding either free-range or in confinement with different dietary MUFA/PUFA ratios and α-tocopheryl acetate supplementation (40 vs. 200 mg/kg) on tocopherol content and susceptibility to lipid oxidation of muscle and microsomes in Iberian pigs. The grass provided to the pigs had a similar α-tocopherol concentration to that observed for diets supplemented with 200 mg/kg α-tocopheryl acetate, and acorns supplied fourfold higher content of γ-tocopherol than the experimental diets. The α- and γ-tocopherol contents of muscle reflected the tocopherol concentration of the diets. Mono and Medium diets produced a similar MUFA/PUFA ratio in neutral and polar lipids of pig muscle to those fed outdoors. The lowest TBARS numbers were found in muscle samples from pigs fed a MUFA-enriched diet in confinement. No significant influence of free-range feeding or dietary fat on drip loss was found. However, α-tocopheryl acetate supplementation reduced (P<0.05) drip loss. Dietary vitamin E supplementation decreased the membrane lipid oxidation by 18% after 120 min. However, free-range feeding decreased the extent of microsome oxidation by 20%, 56% and 82% after 120 min when compared with those groups fed in confinement with high, medium and low MUFA/PUFA ratios, respectively. The hexanal concentration of muscle showed a similar trend to that observed for microsome induced-oxidation, suggesting, that hexanal determination is a more accurate method to measure lipid oxidation in iberian pig muscle than the thiobarbituric acid test.

Effect of Feeding System on the Growth and Carcass Characteristics of Iberian Pigs, and the Use of Ultrasound to Estimate Yields of Joints

Meat Science. Jan, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 22061368

Forty three-castrated male Iberian pigs of the Torbiscal line with an average initial weight of 102.27kg were used. A group of 22 pigs was fed according to the traditional way in free-range conditions with acorn and grass from November to January. Another group of 21 animals was fed 3.72kg/day of a conventional feed that contained 12.53MJME/kg, 16.21% crude protein, 4.94% fat and 6.64% of crude fiber, during the same period. Measurements of backfat thickness and Longissimus dorsi muscle area at the last rib were taken by means of a real-time ultrasound device (Kretz Technick Inc., 600 V-V2.32, Sonovet, Austria) in all pigs before slaughter. After slaughter, carcass, ham and foreleg weights and backfat and muscle area measurement from the last rib chop were recorded. The average daily gain, carcass yield, fat thickness, loin area, ham weight and proportion of hams were significantly higher (P<0.05) in the pigs fed in confinement than in those fed extensively (653.36g, 77.97%, 56.46mm, 3031mm(2), 22.26kg and 14.32% vs 501.48g, 76.94%, 51.74mm, 2673mm(2), 21.52kg and 13.79%, respectively). This paper shows the prediction equations for hams, forelegs and total hams and forelegs weights and proportions with respect to slaughter weight and live ultrasound measurements in pigs fed either extensively or in confinement. The ultrasound measurements better predicted the carcass cuts absolute amounts (R(2)=0.591-0.875) than the carcass cuts proportions (R(2)=0.23-0.40). The use of real-time ultrasound should be used with caution to predict the absolute quantities of hams and forelegs from Iberian pigs since the ultrasound measurements are only moderately accurate.

Prediction of Body Composition of Iberian Pigs by Means Bioelectrical Impedance

Meat Science. Jan, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 22061372

Twelve barrow Iberian pigs with an average weight at slaughter of 109.2kg were used to evaluate bioelectrical impedance procedures to predict the body composition of live pigs. Twelve hours before slaughter pigs were weighed, and a four-terminal body composition analyser (Model BIA-101, RJL Systems, Detroit, MI) was utilized to determine resistance (R(s) in Ω) and reactance (X(c) in Ω). The length values (L in cm) were measured between detector electrodes with a flexible steel tape. Twenty four hours after slaughter the left side of each carcass was separated using a scalpel into fat, lean, bone and skin. Multiple regression equations for estimating lean, fat, bone and skin amounts and lean, fat, bone and skin proportions with respect to slaughter weight were calculated. The live weight (LW) and L independent variables predicted 85.3% and 64.3% of the variability of the lean amount and lean proportion, respectively. The LW, X(c) and L variables accounted for 96% and 91.6% of the variation in fat quantity and fat proportion, respectively. The LW and R(s) accounted for 58.9% of the variation in bone amount, and the same variables predict 79.1% of the variability of bone percentage. The R(s) and L variables explained 68% of the variability of skin quantity and LW, R(s) and X(c) predicted 83.1% of the variation of skin proportion. Results from this experiment indicate that bioelectrical impedance may be of interest for body composition prediction of live Iberian pigs.

Feeding Iberian Pigs with Acorns and Grass in Either Free-range or Confinement Affects the Carcass Characteristics and Fatty Acids and Tocopherols Accumulation in Longissimus Dorsi Muscle and Backfat

Meat Science. May, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 22062055

The experiment was undertaken to provide information on the influence of grass intake in a high fat diet based on acorns, in either free-range or confinement, on the carcass yield and characteristics, and on the accumulation of fatty acids and tocopherols. Groups raised free-range or with acorns and grass in confinement had the highest total backfat. Grass addition to the feed did not significantly modify the carcass weight and cut yield. However, outdoor raising produced lower carcass weights and yield, Longissimus dorsi muscle and ham weights than those fed the formulated diet or acorns and grass in confinement. Neither grass intake nor outdoor rearing did modify significantly the proportion of saturated fatty acids of the backfat. However, a lower proportion of saturated fatty acids was found in the intramuscular neutral lipids from pigs fed outdoors. Pigs reared free-range had significantly (P=0.0001) higher proportions of C18:1n-9 in the inner layer and in the intramuscular neutral lipids than the other groups. The grass intake significantly (P=0.0001) increased the proportion of C18:3n-3 in the inner and outer fat layers and intramuscular neutral lipids, while the outdoor rearing system not only affected on the proportion of linolenic acid but also C22:5 and C22:6 of the inner backfat layer and intramuscular polar lipids. These results suggest that the outdoor rearing allows a higher accumulation of n-3 fatty acids maybe due to an increased activity of the desaturase and elongase enzymes. On the other hand, the accumulation of tocopherols was not significantly modified neither by the grass intake nor the outdoor rearing, while differences were detected by the type of feeding (diet vs. acorns/acorns and grass). It is concluded, that the outdoor rearing system affects the nutritional value of meat, mainly by improving the fatty acid composition.

[Mycophenolate Mofetil in Lupus Nephritis Refractory to Intravenous Cyclophosphamide]

Reumatología Clinica. Sep, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 21794337

To evaluate the use of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) in lupus nephritis (LN) patients with prior failure to intravenous cyclophosphamide over a 12-month follow-up.

Unipolar Brush Cells of the Cerebellum Are Produced in the Rhombic Lip and Migrate Through Developing White Matter

The Journal of Neuroscience : the Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience. Sep, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16957075

Unipolar brush cells (UBCs) are glutamatergic interneurons in the cerebellar cortex and dorsal cochlear nucleus. We studied the development of UBCs, using transcription factor Tbr2/Eomes as a marker for UBCs and their progenitors in embryonic and postnatal mouse cerebellum. Tbr2+ UBCs appeared to migrate out of the upper rhombic lip via two cellular streams: a dorsal pathway into developing cerebellar white matter, where the migrating cells dispersed widely before entering the internal granular layer, and a rostral pathway along the cerebellar ventricular zone toward the brainstem. Ablation of the rhombic lip in organotypic slice cultures substantially reduced the production of Tbr2+ UBCs. In coculture experiments, Tbr2+ UBCs migrated from rhombic lip explants directly into the developing white matter of adjacent cerebellar slices. The origin of Tbr2+ UBCs was confirmed by colocalization with beta-galactosidase expressed from the Math1 locus, a molecular marker of rhombic lip lineages. Moreover, the production of Tbr2+ UBCs was Math1 dependent, as Tbr2+ UBCs were severely reduced in Math1-null cerebellum. In reeler mutant mice, Tbr2+ UBCs accumulated near the rhombic lip, consistent with impaired migration through developing white matter. Our results suggest that UBCs arise from the rhombic lip and migrate via novel pathways to their final destinations in the cerebellum and dorsal cochlear nucleus. Our findings support a model of cerebellar neurogenesis, in which glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons are produced from separate progenitor pools located mainly in the rhombic lip and the cerebellar ventricular zone, respectively.

Effect of Sr Content on the Crystal Structure and Electrical Properties of the System La2-xSrxNiO4+delta (0

Dalton Transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003). Sep, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16967122

Materials formulated as La(2-x)Sr(x)NiO(4+delta) (0

Oncocytoma of the Lacrimal Gland: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Orbit (Amsterdam, Netherlands). Sep, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16987774

Oncocytomas of the lacrimal gland are rare tumors. We report the eighth case in the literature.

Antipyretic Efficacy and Tolerability of Oral Ibuprofen, Oral Dipyrone and Intramuscular Dipyrone in Children: a Randomized Controlled Trial

São Paulo Medical Journal = Revista Paulista De Medicina. May, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 17119689

Dipyrone is a widely used over-the-counter antipyretic in Latin America, and elsewhere among Latin immigrants. Despite limited evidence, physicians often prescribe oral ibuprofen or intramuscular dipyrone as the most effective antipyretics. Our aim was to compare the antipyretic efficacy and tolerability of a single dose of oral ibuprofen, oral dipyrone or intramuscular dipyrone in febrile children.

Smoking Cessation 2: Behavioral Treatments

Behavioral Medicine (Washington, D.C.). 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 17120385

The authors' purpose of this portion of a 3-part review of interventions for tobacco dependence is to present evidence regarding the efficacy of behavioral treatments for smoking cessation. The present review includes evidence evaluated in the Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence Clinical Practice Guideline (the Guideline) (MC Fiore, WC Bailey, SJ Cohen, et al, 2000) as well as evidence published subsequent to the Guideline. A wide range of effective behavioral treatments for smoking cessation is available. These interventions come in a variety of formats and intensities, can be used by all types of clinicians in a variety of settings, and are appropriate for different types of smokers. The authors have organized recommendations in 2 broad domains that account for much of the variability across behavioral interventions, treatment content, and structure. Finally, the authors discuss key directions for future research.

Acoustic Speech Analysis for Hypernasality Detection in Children

Conference Proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Conference. 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 17946309

Here, an analysis of different acoustic features and their influence in automatic identification of hypernasality is shown. Effective feature selection method includes preprocessing of the initial feature space based on statistical independence analysis. Simultaneously, the synthesis of a specialized diagnostic feature is proposed based on analyzing the acoustic emission of the hyper nasal speech. As a result, It is obtained the acoustic features can differentiate with enough precision the pathology. However, the proposed feature does not require training samples and less computational power, as well.

Feature Selection in Pathology Detection Using Hybrid Multidimensional Analysis

Conference Proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Conference. 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 17947146

Heuristical algorithms can reduce the computational complexity. Such methods require of some stopping criteria (cost function). Some of these cost functions are based on statistics like univariate and multivariate methods of analysis. Dimensional reduction techniques such as principal component analysis (PCA) allow to find a lower dimension transformed space based on data variance, but this procedure does not take into account information about classes separability, the direction of maximum variance does not necessarily correspond to the direction of maximum separability. In this work, we propose a feature selection algorithm with heuristic search that uses multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) as the cost function. This technique is put to test by classifying hypernasal from normal voices of CLP (Cleft Lip and/or Palate) patients. The classification performance, computational time and reduction ratio are also considered by the comparison with an alternate feature selection method founded on unfolding the multivariate analysis into univariate and bivariate analysis.

TRNA Structure from a Graph and Quantum Theoretical Perspective

Journal of Theoretical Biology. Jun, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16337238

One of the objectives of theoretical biochemistry is to find a suitable representation of molecules allowing us to encode what we know about their structures, interactions and reactivity. Particularly, tRNA structure is involved in some processes like aminoacylation and genetic code translation, and for this reason these molecules represent a biochemical object of the utmost importance requiring characterization. We propose here two fundamental aspects for characterizing and modeling them. The first takes into consideration the connectivity patterns, i.e. the set of linkages between atoms or molecular fragments (a key tool for this purpose is the use of graph theory), and the second one requires the knowledge of some properties related to the interactions taking place within the molecule, at least in an approximate way, and perhaps of its reactivity in certain means. We used quantum mechanics to achieve this goal; specifically, we have used partial charges as a manifestation of the reply to structural changes. These charges were appropriately modified to be used as weighted factors for elements constituting the molecular graph. This new graph-tRNA context allow us to detect some structure-function relationships.

Volatile Anaesthetic Halothane Causes DNA Damage in A549 Lung Cells

Toxicology in Vitro : an International Journal Published in Association with BIBRA. Aug, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16314068

The present study was performed to elucidate the extent of damage and the ability of lung epithelial cells to recover or to undergo apoptosis after in vitro treatment with the volatile anaesthetic halothane. The results obtained from the comet assay clearly show that halothane, applied at 3.0mM concentration, causes DNA and cell damage. Cells exhibited nuclear fragmentation and budding early after treatment and these events gradually increased during the next few days. The presence of a large number of mini-comets after single cell gel electrophoresis was found to represent apoptotic bodies with fragmented DNA. Our results demonstrate apoptosis-like changes after in vitro exposure of A549 cells to the volatile anaesthetic halothane. The majority of the affected cells did not recover and were directed to cell death.

The Impact of Routine Infant Immunization with Haemophilus Influenzae Type B Conjugate Vaccine in Malawi, a Country with High Human Immunodeficiency Virus Prevalence

Vaccine. Sep, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16806603

Malawi has extreme poverty and a high-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence. Following Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) conjugate vaccine introduction during 2002, we evaluated vaccine impact by reviewing hospital surveillance data for acute bacterial meningitis in Blantyre district among children age 1-59 months admitted during 1997-2005. Documented annual Hib meningitis incidence rates decreased from 20-40/100,000 to near zero among both rural and urban residents despite no change in pneumococcal meningitis incidence rates. Before vaccine introduction, an average of 10 children/year had Hib meningitis and HIV infection compared to 2/year during 2003-2004 and none during 2005. Vaccine effectiveness was high following two or more doses of vaccine. The most urgent future need is for a sustainable routine infant immunization program, including a less expensive vaccine that preferably is delivered in a multivalent form.

In Vitro Pharmacological Characterization of AM1241: a Protean Agonist at the Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor?

British Journal of Pharmacology. Sep, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16894349

The CB2 receptor has been proposed as a novel target for the treatment of pain, and CB2 receptor agonists defined in in vitro assays have demonstrated analgesic activity in animal models. Based on its in vivo analgesic efficacy, AM1241 has been classified as a CB2-selective agonist. However, in vitro characterization of AM1241 in functional assays has not been reported.

Effect of Age at the Beginning of the Free-range Fattening Period on Growth and Carcass and Fat Quality in Iberian Pigs

Archives of Animal Nutrition. Aug, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16921928

This experiment was carried out to study the influence of age at the beginning of the free-range fattening period (traditional pigs, TP, age 12 months vs. young pigs, YP, age 8 months) on the performance of Iberian pigs. During 152 days prior to the fattening period, TP and YP pigs received 1.7 and 2.6 kg feed per day, respectively. During fattening, TP pigs had a higher average daily gain (p < 0.05) than YP pigs. The proportions of PUFA and n-3 fatty acids of the outer and inner layers of subcutaneous backfat were higher in TP than in YP pigs (p < 0.05), while the proportions of C16:0 and SFA in the inner layer of subcutaneous backfat were greater in YP than in TP pigs (p < 0.05). The ratio of n-6/n-3 in subcutaneous backfat was lower in TP than in YP pigs (p < 0.05). The percentage of intramuscular fat in longissimus dorsi muscle was higher in TP than in YP pigs (p < 0.05). The relationship between the percentage of intramuscular fat in longissimus dorsi muscle and average daily gain during the free-range fattening period adjusted to a quadratic function (p < 0.05). The concentration of alpha- and gamma-tocopherol in subcutaneous backfat at slaughter was significantly higher in TP than in YP pigs (p < 0.05). It is concluded that Iberian pigs that have 8 months of age at the beginning of free-range feeding have adequate commercial quality.

Effects of Substitution on 9-(3-bromo-4-fluorophenyl)-5,9-dihydro-3H,4H-2,6-dioxa-4- Azacyclopenta[b]naphthalene-1,8-dione, a Dihydropyridine ATP-sensitive Potassium Channel Opener

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. Nov, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 17154517

Structure-activity relationships were investigated on the tricyclic dihydropyridine (DHP) KATP openers 9-(3-bromo-4-fluorophenyl)-5,9-dihydro-3H,4H-2,6-dioxa-4-azacyclopenta[b]naphthalene-1,8-dione (6) and 10-(3-bromo-4-fluorophenyl)-9,10-dihydro-1H,8H-2,7-dioxa-9-azaanthracene-4,5-dione (65). Substitution off the core of the DHP, absolute stereochemistry, and aromatic substitution were evaluated for KATP channel activity using Ltk- cells stably transfected with the Kir6.2/SUR2B exon 17- splice variant and in an electrically stimulated pig bladder strip assay. A select group of compounds was evaluated for in vitro inhibition of spontaneous bladder contractions. Several compounds were found to have the unique characteristic of partial efficacy in both the cell-based and electrically stimulated bladder strip assays but full efficacy in inhibiting spontaneous bladder strip contractions. For compound 23b, this profile was mirrored in vivo where it was fully efficacious in inhibiting spontaneous myogenic bladder contractions but only partially able to reduce neurogenically mediated reflex bladder contractions.

[Dental Caries Amongst Mentally Retarded People and Those Suffering from Down's Syndrome]

Revista De Salud Pública (Bogotá, Colombia). Sep-Dec, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 17269220

A descriptive investigation was conducted for determining the prevalence of dental caries amongst mentally retarded (MR) people and those suffering from Down's syndrome (DS).

Racial and Ethnic Differences in Predictors of Smoking Cessation

Substance Use & Misuse. 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16467009

Racial/ethnic differences in the determinants of smoking cessation could have important treatment implications. The current study examined racial/ethnic differences in smoking cessation, prospective predictors of cessation, and whether the predictive ability of these factors differed by race/ethnicity. Participants were 709 employed adults recruited through the National Rural Electric Co-op Association or through natural gas pipeline corporations. Data were collected in 1990 and 1994. Although race/ethnicity was not predictive of abstinence, Hispanic, African American, and White smokers displayed differential on tobacco-, alcohol-, and work-related variables. These racial/ethnic differences highlight the specific factors that should be considered when providing smoking cessation treatment to specific populations. Limitations are noted.

Pharmacological Characterization of Urinary Bladder Smooth Muscle Contractility Following Partial Bladder Outlet Obstruction in Pigs

European Journal of Pharmacology. Feb, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16487510

Partial bladder outlet obstruction of the pig is considered as a valuable preclinical model for evaluating the profile of compounds for the treatment of bladder overactivity. In this study, we characterized the pharmacological properties of isolated bladder smooth muscle from pigs following partial outlet obstruction and its sensitivity to potassium channel openers. Bladder strips from obstructed animals showed significantly lower maximal efficacy (E(max)) and sensitivity to stimulation by ATP and carbachol, but not to those evoked by serotonin, compared to age-matched controls. Tissue strips from obstructed animals also showed a 2.5-fold increase in the potency and significantly reduced maximum response following K+ depolarization. With respect to spontaneous activity, bladder strips from control strips demonstrated little spontaneous phasic activity at all preloads examined. In contrast, bladder strips from obstructed animals showed large preload-dependent increases in spontaneous phasic activity at preload values of 16-32 g. The potencies of K(ATP) channel openers to relax carbachol-evoked contractions showed a good 1:1 correlation (r(2)=0.90) between obstructed and control bladder strips. These studies demonstrate that obstructed pig bladders show enhanced spontaneous phasic activity especially at elevated preloads, which may underlie unstable myogenic bladder contractions reported in cystometrographic measurements in vivo. The impaired responses to electrical field stimulation could be attributed to reduced efficacies and/or lower sensitivities of muscarinic and purinergic signaling pathways. K(ATP) channel sensitivities remain essentially unimpaired in the obstructed bladder and could be effectively modulated by openers with potential for the treatment of overactive bladder secondary to outlet obstruction.

Investigation of Cognitive Behavior Therapy

The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry : Official Journal of the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry. Mar, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16505134

[An Unresolved Question]

Atencion Primaria / Sociedad Española De Medicina De Familia Y Comunitaria. Feb, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16527110

Development of the Deep Cerebellar Nuclei: Transcription Factors and Cell Migration from the Rhombic Lip

The Journal of Neuroscience : the Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience. Mar, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16540585

The deep cerebellar nuclei (DCN) are the main output centers of the cerebellum, but little is known about their development. Using transcription factors as cell type-specific markers, we found that DCN neurons in mice are produced in the rhombic lip and migrate rostrally in a subpial stream to the nuclear transitory zone (NTZ). The rhombic lip-derived cells express transcription factors Pax6, Tbr2, and Tbr1 sequentially as they enter the NTZ. A subset of rhombic lip-derived cells also express reelin, a key regulator of Purkinje cell migrations. In organotypic slice cultures, the rhombic lip was necessary and sufficient to produce cells that migrate in the subpial stream, enter the NTZ, and express Pax6, Tbr2, Tbr1, and reelin. In later stages of development, the subpial stream is replaced by the external granular layer, and the NTZ organizes into distinct DCN nuclei. Tbr1 expression persists to adulthood in a subset of medial DCN projection neurons. In reeler mutant mice, which have a severe cerebellar malformation, rhombic lip-derived cells migrated to the NTZ, despite reelin deficiency. Studies in Tbr1 mutant mice suggested that Tbr1 plays a role in DCN morphogenesis but is not required for reelin expression, glutamatergic differentiation, or the initial formation of efferent axon pathways. Our findings reveal underlying similarities in the transcriptional programs for glutamatergic neuron production in the DCN and the cerebral cortex, and they support a model of cerebellar neurogenesis in which glutamatergic and GABAergic neurons are produced from separate progenitor compartments.

Transcription Factors in Glutamatergic Neurogenesis: Conserved Programs in Neocortex, Cerebellum, and Adult Hippocampus

Neuroscience Research. Jul, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16621079

Glutamatergic, pyramidal-projection neurons are produced in the embryonic cerebral cortex by a series of genetically programmed fate choices, implemented in large part by developmental transcription factors. Our work has focused on Pax6, Tbr2/Eomes, NeuroD, and Tbr1, which are expressed sequentially during the neurogenesis of pyramidal-projection neurons. Recently, we have found that the same transcription factors are expressed, in the same order, during glutamatergic neurogenesis in the adult dentate gyrus, and (with modifications) in the developing cerebellum. While the precise functional significance of this transcription factor expression sequence is unknown, its common appearance in embryonic and adult neurogenesis, and in different brain regions, suggests it is part of a conserved genetic program that specifies general properties of glutamatergic neurons in these regions. Subtypes of glutamatergic neurons (e.g., layer-specific fates in the cortex) are further determined by combinations of transcription factors, superimposed on general sequential programs. These new perspectives on neurogenesis add to the conceptual framework for strategies to engineer neural stem cells for the repair of specific brain circuits.

Estrogen Receptors Alpha and Beta Differentially Regulate the Transcriptional Activity of the Urocortin Gene

The Journal of Neuroscience : the Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience. May, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16672665

Urocortin (Ucn), a highly conserved metazoan gene, is related to stress and feeding, behaviors with significant gender differences. We investigated whether estrogens regulate the expression of the Ucn gene using transient transfection in PC12 cells with the human Ucn (hUcn) promoter coupled to luciferase and either alpha or beta estrogen receptors (ERalpha or ERbeta, respectively). The results demonstrate that estradiol (E2) increases the activity of the hUcn promoter via ERalpha, and decreases hUcn promoter activity through ERbeta. Deletions of the hUcn promoter show that the increase in promoter activity mediated by E2-ERalpha depends on a promoter region containing a half-estrogen response element and an Sp1 site, and the decrease mediated by E2-ERbeta depends on a proximal promoter region containing a cAMP response element. Ucn and ERs coexist in neurons of rat hypothalamic nuclei, giving anatomical support for a direct effect of estrogen receptors on the Ucn gene. By in situ hybridization, we observed that cycling female rats have a higher number of cells expressing Ucn mRNA than males in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN) and the septum. Both of these brain nuclei are related to stress behaviors and express moderate levels of Ucn. Furthermore, Ucn mRNA was significantly decreased in the PVN and increased in the septum 30 d after ovariectomy. Acute E2 administration to ovariectomized rats significantly increased Ucn mRNA expression in the PVN and septum. In conclusion, our in vitro and in vivo evidence suggests that estrogens exert a direct and differential transcriptional regulation of the Ucn gene.

At-risk Drinking in Employed Men and Women

Annals of Behavioral Medicine : a Publication of the Society of Behavioral Medicine. Jun, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16700642

"At-risk" drinking is associated with a variety of negative health and social consequences. However, little is known about the characteristics of at-risk drinkers or of changes in at-risk status over time.

Effect of Carbon and Nitrogen Sources, PH and Temperature on in Vitro Culture of Several Isolates of Amanita Caesarea (Scop.:Fr.) Pers

Mycorrhiza. Mar, 2006  |  Pubmed ID: 16292570

Several isolates were obtained from sporocarps of Amanita caesarea (Scop.: Fr.) Pers. associated with Quercus suber and Castanea sativa coming from the southwest of Spain. Culture conditions were optimized for these isolates. The largest radial growth was obtained at pH 6-7, and optimal growth temperature was 24-28 degrees C depending on the isolate. Albumin bovine and nitrate produced the largest patch size diameters, but the greatest mycelium dry weight yields were obtained with ammonium. Mannitol produced the largest radial growth, and mannitol and glucose yielded the biggest mycelium dry weights. Although variations in growth behaviour between isolates were observed, only one internal spacer sequence-restriction fragment length polymorphism type was obtained.

Common Carotid Intima-media Thickness and Von Willebrand Factor Serum Levels in Rheumatoid Arthritis Female Patients Without Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Clinical Rheumatology. Apr, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 16758372

High atherosclerosis prevalence was found in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and the von Willebrand factor (vWF) was shown to be a marker for endothelial damage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association of intima-media thickness of the left common carotid artery with vWF serum levels in rheumatoid arthritis patients without cardiovascular risk factors. We included 55 RA female patients, each with at least 5 years of duration of the disease, and 20 healthy female subjects as members of the control group. The vWF, cholesterol, triglycerides, and the immune variables-rheumatoid factor and reactive C protein-were evaluated. The media thickness and intima-media thickness (IMT) in patients and in the control subjects were assessed by Doppler ultrasound of the left common carotid artery. Although the ages for RA patients and healthy female controls were not different, the IMT of the left common carotid artery (IMT CCA) in rheumatoid arthritis patients was increased in comparison with healthy control measurements, the mean being 0.67 mm (SD 0.18) vs 0.58 mm (SD 0.10) with a p value 0.01. The vWF serum levels showed differences in RA patients from those in control patients, 145.6 (SD 30.08) vs 121.8 (SD 37.17), respectively, with p=0.007. A correlation was also found between vWF with IMT CCA in the RA patients: r=0.390 and p<0.05. We concluded that the measurements of the left common carotid artery intima-media thickness together with the von Willebrand factor serum levels could give valuable information about the artery status and the atherosclerosis process in early stages in patients with rheumatoid arthritis without cardiovascular risk factors.

Incidence of Weak Opioids Adverse Events in the Management of Cancer Pain: a Double-blind Comparative Trial

Journal of Palliative Medicine. Feb, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17298254

With the objective of comparing incidence of adverse events of the opioids codeine, hydrocodone, and tramadol in the relief of cancer pain, we conducted a randomized controlled trial in which patients with cancer were randomly assigned according to a computer-generated schedule to receive one of the three opioids. Of the 177 patients who participated, 62 patients received hydrocodone, 59 patients received codeine, and 56 patients received tramadol. The pain experienced by the participants originated most frequently from the stomach, breast, or prostate gland and was classified as either somatic (33%), visceral (52%), mixed (6%), or neuropathic (9%). At the first visit, 60% of the patients described their pain intensity as moderate (4-6/10), with the remaining 40% of the patients describing their pain as severe (7-10/10). The symptoms most associated with pain were weakness, insomnia. and anorexia. In 77% of the total number of cases, the patient was aware of his/her diagnosis prior to admittance to the palliative care unit. Of the total number of cases, 57% fell in the age range of 60-89 years old and 50% of the participants were female. No significant statistical difference in the analgesic efficacy of the three opioids was found (p: 0.69; chi(2): 0.73). Use of tramadol produced higher rates of adverse events than codeine and hydrocodone: vomiting, dizziness, loss of appetite, and weakness (p < 0.05).

Tissular Changes Induced by Pseudomonas Aeruginosa in an Otitis Media Rat Model with Tubal Obstruction

Acta Oto-laryngologica. Feb, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17364343

This is a suitable model for the study of different features of middle ear inflammation. This model allows manipulations inside the middle ear while preserving relevant structures such as the tympanic membrane, and provides a useful model for the study of interactions between bacterial infection and eustachian tube dysfunction.

[Role of Malnutrition in Intestinal Anastomosis Collagenization: an Analysis of Procollagen (PINP) and Carboxyterminal Telopeptide (ICTP) by Radioimmunoassay]

Revista Española De Enfermedades Digestivas : Organo Oficial De La Sociedad Española De Patología Digestiva. Feb, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17417918

some clinical, anatomo-pathological, and technical factors influence the correct healing of intestinal suture following an intestinal resection. One of the most influential factors is patient nutritional status.Objectives: to evaluate the influence of malnutrition on the viability of primary intestinal anastomosis by the analysis of collagen I deposition.

Characterization of a Novel ATP-sensitive K+ Channel Opener, A-251179, on Urinary Bladder Relaxation and Cystometric Parameters

British Journal of Pharmacology. Jun, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17435796

ATP-sensitive K(+) channels (K(ATP)) play a pivotal role in contractility of urinary bladder smooth muscle. This study reports the characterization of 4-methyl-N-(2,2,2-trichloro-1-(3-pyridin-3-ylthioureido)ethyl)benzamide (A-251179) as a K(ATP) channel opener. Experimental Approach: Glyburide-sensitive membrane potential, patch clamp and tension assays were employed to study the effect of A-251179 in vitro. The in vivo efficacy of A-251179 was characterized by suppression of spontaneous contractions in obstructed rat bladder and by measuring urodynamic function of urethane-anesthetized rat models.

Penetrating Injury to the Intra-abdominal Esophagus from a Stab Wound to the Left Flank

The Journal of Trauma. Oct, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17514055

Cloning, Expression and Characterization of Mugwort Pollen Allergen Art V 2, a Pathogenesis-related Protein from Family Group 1

Molecular Immunology. Jul, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17521730

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) belongs to the Compositae family, and is one of the main causes of allergy in late summer and autumn. The aim of the study was to characterize the allergen Art v 2 from mugwort pollen. Skin prick tests, performed in 19 patients allergic to mugwort and 10 control patients, showed an Art v 2 sensitization prevalence of 58%, whereas none false-positives were detected among control patients. Art v 2 was purified by standard chromatography and binding to Concanavalin A column and had an apparent molecular mass of 33 and 20 kDa, calculated by gel permeation and SDS-PAGE under denaturing conditions, respectively, showing that the allergen is composed of two identical subunits. Art v 2-encoding cDNA was amplified by PCR using degenerate primers based on reported partial amino acid sequences. Cloned cDNA encoding Art v 2 contains 140 bp that codify for a polypeptide of 15.8 kDa, with a predicted pI value of 5.2, and one potential N-glycosylation site. Protein homology search demonstrated that Art v 2 share 55-42% identical residues with pathogenesis-related protein PR-1 of tomato, potato, rape, wheat and rice. Homology was also found to Ves v 5 (41% identical residues). Bacterial-expressed recombinant Art v 2 was recognized only by 21% of mugwort-allergic patients. In conclusion, Art v 2 from mugwort is the first weed pollen allergen that belongs to the pathogenesis-related protein PR-1 and its recombinant form could help molecular diagnosis of mugwort associated allergy.

Antifungal Activity of Strawberry Fruit Volatile Compounds Against Colletotrichum Acutatum

Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Jul, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17567029

Eight volatile products characterizing strawberry aroma, which is generated from the oxidative degradation of linoleic and linolenic acids by a lipoxygenase (LOX) pathway, were examined because of their antifungal activity against Colletotrichum acutatum, one of the causal agents of strawberry anthracnose. In this study, the effects of aldehydes, alcohols, and esters on mycelial growth and conidia development were evaluated. (E)-Hex-2-enal was found to be the best inhibitor of mycelial growth [MID (minimum inhibitory doses)=33.65 microL L(-1)] and of spore germination (MID=6.76 microL L(-1)), while hexyl acetate was the least effective of all volatile compounds tested (MID=6441.89 microL L(-1) for mycelial growth and MID=1351.35 microL L(-1) for spore germination). Furthermore, the antifungal activity of (E)-hex-2-enal on susceptibility of strawberry fruits to C. acutatum was also confirmed. The presence of these molecules in jars containing strawberry fruits inoculated with a suspension of spores inhibited the fungus growth and prevented the appearance of symptoms. Moreover, a study of the effects of (E)-hex-2-enal on conidial cells of C. acutatum was evaluated by transmission electron microscopy. This volatile compound altered the structures of the cell wall and plasma membrane, causing disorganization and lysis of organelles and, eventually, cell death.

Improvement of ACTH Response to Insulin Tolerance Test in Female Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Due to Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibition

European Journal of Endocrinology / European Federation of Endocrine Societies. Jul, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17609401

The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis evaluation has been conflicting in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Our aim was to evaluate the HPA axis response to the insulin tolerance test (ITT) in premenopausal female patients with RA before and after anti-tumor necrosis factor therapy (anti-TNF therapy).

Semantic Priming Effects from Single Words in a Lexical Decision Task

Acta Psychologica. Jun, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 16950164

The present research examines the semantic priming effects of a centrally presented single prime word to which participants were instructed to either "attend and remember" or "ignore". The prime word was followed by a central probe target on which the participants made a lexical decision task. The main variables manipulated across experiments were prime duration (50 or 100 ms), the presence or absence of a mask following the prime, and the presence (or absence) and type of distractor stimulus (random set of consonants or pseudowords) on the probe display. There was a consistent interaction between the instructions and the semantic priming effects. Relative to the "attend and remember" instruction, an "ignore" instruction produced reduced positive priming from single primes presented for 100 ms, irrespective of the presence or absence of a prime mask, and regardless of whether the probe target was presented with or without distractors. Additionally, reliable negative priming was found from ignored primes presented for briefer durations (50 ms) and immediately followed by a mask. Methodological and theoretical implications of the present findings for the extant negative priming literature are discussed.

Reaching and Treating Spanish-speaking Smokers Through the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service. A Randomized Controlled Trial

Cancer. Jan, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17149758

Although the prevalence of smoking is lower among Hispanics than among the general population, smoking still levies a heavy public health burden on this underserved group. The current study, Adiós al Fumar (Goodbye to Smoking), was designed to increase the reach of the Spanish-language smoking cessation counseling service provided by the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Information Service (CIS) and to evaluate the efficacy of a culturally sensitive, proactive, behavioral treatment program among Spanish-speaking smokers. Adiós was a 2-group randomized clinical trial evaluating a telephone-based smoking cessation intervention. Spanish-speaking smokers (N = 297) were randomized to receive either standard counseling or enhanced counseling (EC). Paid media was used to increase the reach of the Spanish-language smoking cessation services offered by the CIS. The Adiós sample was of very low socioeconomic status (SES), and more than 90% were immigrants. Calls to the CIS requesting smoking cessation help in Spanish increased from 0.39 calls to 17.8 calls per month. The unadjusted effect of EC only approached significance (OR = 2.4, P = .077), but became significant after controlling for demographic and tobacco-related variables (OR = 3.8, P = .048). Adiós al Fumar demonstrated that it is possible to reach, retain, and deliver an adequate dose of treatment to a very low SES population that has traditionally been viewed as difficult to reach and hard to follow. Moreover, the findings suggest that a proactive, telephone-counseling program, based on the Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence Clinical Practice Guideline and adapted to be culturally appropriate for Hispanics, is effective. Cancer 2007. (c) 2006 American Cancer Society.

Morphological Sequence of Plastipore Extrusion in Experimental Otitis Media

The Annals of Otology, Rhinology, and Laryngology. Oct, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17987784

Plastipore prostheses are still used by many surgeons, although the functional results are controversial. The aim of this study was the morphological analysis of Plastipore material performance in the middle ear of rats, with special attention to extrusion.

Evolution of Genes and Genomes on the Drosophila Phylogeny

Nature. Nov, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 17994087

Comparative analysis of multiple genomes in a phylogenetic framework dramatically improves the precision and sensitivity of evolutionary inference, producing more robust results than single-genome analyses can provide. The genomes of 12 Drosophila species, ten of which are presented here for the first time (sechellia, simulans, yakuba, erecta, ananassae, persimilis, willistoni, mojavensis, virilis and grimshawi), illustrate how rates and patterns of sequence divergence across taxa can illuminate evolutionary processes on a genomic scale. These genome sequences augment the formidable genetic tools that have made Drosophila melanogaster a pre-eminent model for animal genetics, and will further catalyse fundamental research on mechanisms of development, cell biology, genetics, disease, neurobiology, behaviour, physiology and evolution. Despite remarkable similarities among these Drosophila species, we identified many putatively non-neutral changes in protein-coding genes, non-coding RNA genes, and cis-regulatory regions. These may prove to underlie differences in the ecology and behaviour of these diverse species.

Organotypic Slice Culture of Embryonic Brain Tissue

CSH Protocols. 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 21357004

INTRODUCTIONThis protocol describes how to dissect, assemble, and cultivate mouse embryonic (E) brain tissue from age E11.5 to E18.5 (days) for organotypic slice culture. These preparations can be used for a variety of assays and studies including coculture of different brain regions, cell migration assays, axon guidance assays, and DNA electroporation experiments. During electroporation, an electric current is applied to the surface of a specific target area of the brain slice in order to open holes in the plasma membrane and introduce a plasmid of coding DNA. The floating slice-on-membrane construct helps to preserve the structural integrity of the brain slices, while maintaining easy experimental access and optimal viability. Experiments can be monitored in living slices (e.g., with confocal imaging), and further studies can be completed using slices that have been fixed and cryosectioned at the end of the experiment. Any region of embryonic brain or spinal tissue can be used in this protocol.

Effect of Mediterranean Forest Parasite with Curculio Sp. on Nutritional Value of Acorn for Iberian Pig Feeding and Fat Characteristics

Meat Science. Jun, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 22064301

Sixteen Iberian barrows of the same age with an average initial live weight of 100.1kg were randomly distributed in two groups of eight pigs each. One group was fed healthy acorns and the other group received acorns infested of Curculio sp. The subcutaneous backfat from pigs fed healthy acorns had higher C18:1n-9, MUFA and C20:5n-3 and lower C18:0 and SFA proportions than that from the pigs fed acorns infested with Curculio. The consumption of acorns infested with Curculio sp. led to a reduction of C18:1n-9, MUFA, C18:2n-6, C18:3n-3, C22:5n-3 and PUFA proportions in neutral lipids from Longissimus dorsi muscle with respect to consumption of healthy acorns, whereas in polar lipids it produced a reduction in C18:1n-9, MUFA and C18:4n-3 proportions and an increase in C18:2n-6, C20:4n-6, n-6 and C20:5n-3 proportions and of n-6/n-3 ratio with respect to the healthy acorns consumption. The pigs fed healthy acorns had higher intramuscular fat percentage in Longissimus dorsi than pigs fed with acorns infested with Curculio (9.95 vs 7.09% SEM=0.60).

Effect of Duration of Feeding Under Free-range Conditions on Production Results and Carcass and Fat Quality in Iberian Pigs

Meat Science. Jul, 2007  |  Pubmed ID: 22060982

This experiment was undertaken to provide information on the effect of feeding system applied during the finishing period (100-150kg) on the quality of Iberian pig meat. Four feeding systems were applied: pigs fed under free-range conditions with acorns and grass fully available during 111 days (FR(111)), pigs fed concentrate diet in confinement during 28 days and free-range with acorns and grass fully available during 83 days (CDC(28)+FR(83)), pigs fed concentrate diet in confinement during 65 days and free-range with acorns and grass fully available during 46 days (CDC(65)+FR(46)) and pigs fed concentrate diet in confinement with a feed average daily amount of 3.1kg during 111 days (CDC(111)). The CDC(111) pigs had more muscular carcasses characteristics than the remaining groups of pigs. However, the higher concentration of C18:1 n-9 in subcutaneous backfat was found in FR(111) pigs. In the neutral lipids from intramuscular fat of Longissimus dorsi only the C18:2 n-6 and C18:3 n-3 proportions were affected by feeding system, and the n-6/n-3 ratio observed was lower in FR(111) and CDC(28)+FR(83) pigs than in CDC(111) pigs. In the neutral lipids from hepatic fat the proportion of n-6 fatty acids was lower in FR(111) pigs than in CDC(65)+FR(46) and CDC(111) pigs.

Effect of Exercise on Skeletal Muscle Proteolytic Enzyme Activity and Meat Quality Characteristics in Iberian Pigs

Meat Science. May, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 22062599

The effects of physical activity on performance, carcass traits, Psoas major lysosomal and exoprotease acitivies and meat quality were studied in 24 castrated male Iberian pigs during the last fattening period (from 111.1±SD: 5.2kg). Pigs were randomly distributed in three groups. Two groups receiving the same diet were reared in confinement, one housed in individual pens of 8m(2) (sedentary group) and the other was housed outdoor with daily (up to 2km) forced walking (exercise group). And one group was reared under the traditional production system walking daily several km and fed mostly with acorn from Quercus ilex and Quercus rotundifolia and grass (free-range group). No differences were found in performance and carcass traits. In exercised pigs a lower activity of cathepsin B+L and total cathepsins (P<0.05) was observed. Exercise induced the inhibition of dipeptidyl peptidases II and III and arginyl aminopeptidase and the activation of dipeptidyl peptidases IV and leucyl aminopeptidase (P<0.05). Although no effects on total free amino acids in Psoas major muscle were observed the concentration of branched chain amino acids decreased in the free-range pig group probably related to an increase in physical activity. Exercise had no effects in Psoas major postmortem tenderness and water holding capacity.

In Vitro and in Vivo Characterization of A-796260: a Selective Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor Agonist Exhibiting Analgesic Activity in Rodent Pain Models

British Journal of Pharmacology. Jan, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 17994110

Selective cannabinoid CB2 receptor agonists have demonstrated analgesic activity across multiple preclinical pain models. AM1241 is an indole derivative that exhibits high affinity and selectivity for the CB2 binding site and broad spectrum analgesic activity in rodent models, but is not an antagonist of CB2 in vitro functional assays. Additionally, its analgesic effects are mu-opioid receptor-dependent. Herein, we describe the in vitro and in vivo pharmacological properties of A-796260, a novel CB2 agonist.

Tungiasis: Eggs Seen with Dermoscopy

The British Journal of Dermatology. Mar, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 18081898

Graph Theoretical Similarity Approach to Compare Molecular Electrostatic Potentials

Journal of Chemical Information and Modeling. Jan, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 18166018

In this work we introduce a graph theoretical method to compare MEPs, which is independent of molecular alignment. It is based on the edit distance of weighted rooted trees, which encode the geometrical and topological information of Negative Molecular Isopotential Surfaces. A meaningful chemical classification of a set of 46 molecules with different functional groups was achieved. Structure--activity relationships for the corticosteroid binding affinity (CBG) of 31 steroids by means of hierarchical clustering resulted in a clear partitioning in high, intermediate, and low activity groups, whereas the results from quantitative structure--activity relationships, obtained from a partial least-squares analysis, showed comparable or better cross-validated correlation coefficients than the ones reported for previous methods based solely in the MEP.

Hydrocodone/acetaminophen and Tramadol Chlorhydrate Combination Tablets for the Management of Chronic Cancer Pain: a Double-blind Comparative Trial

The Clinical Journal of Pain. Jan, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 18180628

The purpose of this study was to compare the analgesic efficacy and tolerability of opioids hydrocodone and tramadol in the relief of cancer pain.

Indol-3-yl-tetramethylcyclopropyl Ketones: Effects of Indole Ring Substitution on CB2 Cannabinoid Receptor Activity

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. Mar, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 18311894

A series of potent indol-3-yl-tetramethylcyclopropyl ketones have been prepared as CB 2 cannabinoid receptor ligands. Two unsubstituted indoles ( 5, 32) were the starting points for an investigation of the effect of indole ring substitutions on CB 2 and CB 1 binding affinities and activity in a CB 2 in vitro functional assay. Indole ring substitutions had varying effects on CB 2 and CB 1 binding, but were generally detrimental to agonist activity. Substitution on the indole ring did lead to improved CB 2/CB 1 binding selectivity in some cases (i.e., 7- 9, 15- 20). All indoles with the morpholino-ethyl side chain ( 32- 43) exhibited weaker binding affinity and less agonist activity relative to that of their tetrahydropyranyl-methyl analogs ( 5- 31). Several agonists were active in the complete Freund's adjuvant model of chronic inflammatory thermal hyperalgesia ( 32, 15).

Skull Anatomy of the Miniaturized Gecko Sphaerodactylus Roosevelti (Squamata: Gekkota)

Journal of Morphology. Nov, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 18698607

A detailed description of the skull and jaw of the gecko Sphaerodactylus roosevelti is presented. The bones are described articulated and isolated with special consideration given to the type of suture among joining elements. S. roosevelti was compared with 109 gekkotan species to evaluate the osteological variation and to find characters for cladistic analysis. Changes in the skull associated with the miniaturization process are discussed within the sphaerodactylid geckos. A noticeable increase of overlapping sutures was observed in the snout of the smallest sphaerodactylids compared to other gekkotans. This pattern is convergent with that in miniaturized pygopodids and may be attributed to adaptations for decreasing mechanical resistance of the cranium during feeding or burrowing. New cranial characters support Sphaerodactylinae as a monophyletic group and should be useful for resolving questions such as their relationship with other gekkotans.

Effect of Inoculation with Putative Plant Growth-promoting Rhizobacteria Isolated from Pinus Spp. on Pinus Pinea Growth, Mycorrhization and Rhizosphere Microbial Communities

Journal of Applied Microbiology. Nov, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 18713291

In this study, 10 putative plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) were assayed for their ability to improve Pinus pinea growth and mycorrhization.

Genotoxicity Detected in Wild Mice Living in a Highly Polluted Wetland Area in South Western Spain

Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987). Jun, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 17949869

A field study was carried out in the south of the Iberian Peninsula in an industrial area in the neighbourhood of Huelva city, SW Spain, and in a natural area (Doñana National Park) for comparison, to estimate the genetic risk induced by environmental pollution in wild mice. Genotoxic effects in a sentinel organism, the Algerian mice (Mus spretus) free living in the industrial area were compared with animals of the same species living in the natural protected area. The single cell gel electrophoresis, or Comet assay, was performed as a genotoxicity test in peripheral blood of mice. Our results clearly show that mice free living in the contaminated area bear a high burden of genetic damage as compared with control individuals. The results suggest that the assessing of genotoxicity levels by the Comet assay in wild mice can be used as a valuable test in pollution monitoring and environmental conservation.

Physical Activity-induced Alterations on Tissue Lipid Composition and Lipid Metabolism in Fattening Pigs

Meat Science. Nov, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 20416577

In a first experiment one group of pigs was maintained in free-range conditions according to the traditional way in a Mediterranean forest (exercised-1) and another group was housed individually and received acorns (sedentary-1). In a second experiment two groups of pigs were fed a mixed diet for the whole experimental period. One of these groups was housed individually in 8m(2) pens (sedentary-2). The other group was housed in a corridor and forced to walk daily (exercised-2). The subcutaneous fat and neutral lipids of muscle from the exercised pigs fed acorns had higher C18:1n-9, MUFA, C18:1/C18:0, MUFA/SAT and lower C16:0 and SAT when compared with the fat from the pigs fed acorns in confinement. Those exercised animals fed the mixed diet had also lower C16:0 and SAT in subcutaneous fat and lower SAT and higher C18:2, C18:3, PUFA and MUFA/SAT in neutral lipids when compared with the sedentary pigs, which may indicate that delta-9-desaturase activity was higher in exercised than in sedentary pigs. Exercised pigs had higher acid and neutral esterases and lower neutral lipase activity than sedentary pigs. No differences in the alpha-tocopherol concentration and TBARS values of meat samples among the pigs that received a mixed diet either exercised or sedentary were observed. The moderate exercise reduced the postprandrial concentrations of triglycerides in plasma, but did not reduce other plasma levels.

Interactions Between Genotype, Dietary Fat Saturation and Vitamin A Concentration on Intramuscular Fat Content and Fatty Acid Composition in Pigs

Meat Science. Nov, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 20416584

The effect of dietary fat saturation (dFat) and dietary vitamin A (dVitA) level (0 IU vs. 100,000 IU) on performance, carcass characteristics and fatty acid composition in the offspring of two terminal sires: Duroc (DU) and LandracexLarge White (LDxLW) was studied. In the inner backfat layer, the DU-sired pigs had higher C16:0 proportion (P<0.05) and tended (P<0.07) to have higher total saturated fatty acids (SFA) and lower C18:1 n-9 proportions than LDxLW-sired pigs. An interaction sire linexdVitA was observed for intramuscular fat (IMF) content (P<0.005). The effect of supplementation with the high dVitA level in DU-sired pigs was associated with a 20% increase in IMF while no effect was observed in LDxLW pigs. Fatty acid pattern was affected by dFat and sire line. In the inner backfat layer, LDxLW-sired pigs receiving the low dVitA level increased C18:0 proportions by 8% in comparison to animals receiving the high dVitA, whereas in DU-sired pigs the effect of vitamin A was opposite. It is concluded that the effect of dFat and dVitA concentration on IMF content and fatty acid profile of subcutaneous backfat and IMF is variable according to pig genotype.

[Adolescents' Level of Knowledge About HIV/AIDS]

Revista De Salud Pública (Bogotá, Colombia). Nov-Dec, 2008  |  Pubmed ID: 19360220

Determining adolescents' level of knowledge (LK) about HIV/AIDS using descriptive investigation.

Peripheral and Central Sites of Action for the Non-selective Cannabinoid Agonist WIN 55,212-2 in a Rat Model of Post-operative Pain

British Journal of Pharmacology. Jun, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19371344

Activation of cannabinoid (CB) receptors decreases nociceptive transmission in inflammatory or neuropathic pain states. However, the effects of CB receptor agonists in post-operative pain remain to be investigated. Here, we characterized the anti-allodynic effects of WIN 55,212-2 (WIN) in a rat model of post-operative pain.

Transmission Permeability of Tuberculosis Involving Immigrants, Revealed by a Multicentre Analysis of Clusters

Clinical Microbiology and Infection : the Official Publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. May, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19416291

In recent years, the number of cases of tuberculosis (TB) among immigrants in Spain has increased markedly, and led to this analysis of the recent transmission patterns of TB in the immigrant population in Madrid. The countries from which the highest number of immigrant cases have been reported were Ecuador (21%), Romania (16%), Morocco (12%), Peru (11%) and Bolivia (9%). Fifty-one per cent of the cases were from South America. In a multicentre study (2004-2006), IS6110 restriction fragment length polymorphism and spoligotyping were used to genotype the Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates from 632 immigrant cases from 47 countries. A total of 183 cases (29%) were grouped into 59 clusters, which are markers of potential transmission events. Most of the clusters (81%) included patients living in different healthcare districts, and 54% of the clusters were multinational. When a sample of 478 autochthonous cases was included, 53% of the clusters involving immigrants also included autochthonous cases. This study revealed marked transmission permeability among nationalities and between the immigrant and the autochthonous populations.

[Fever and Thin-walled Cavitary Lung Lesions]

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. Jun, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19419797

Major Genomic Events and Their Consequences for Vertebrate Evolution and Endocrinology

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences. Apr, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19456340

Comparative studies of proteins often face the problem of distinguishing a true orthologue (species homologue) from a paralogue (a gene duplicate). This identification task is particularly challenging for endocrine peptides and neuropeptides because they are short and usually have several invariant positions. For some peptide families, this has led to a terminology with peptide names relating to the first species where a specific peptide sequence was determined, such as chicken or salmon gonadotropin-releasing hormone, or names that highlight amino acid differences, e.g., Lys-vasopressin. With accumulating information from multiple species, such a terminology becomes almost impenetrable for nonexperts and difficult even for aficionados. The sequenced genomes offer a new way to distinguish orthologues and paralogues, namely by location of the genes relative to neighboring genes on the chromosomes. In addition, the genome databases can ideally provide a complete listing of the family members in each species. Many vertebrate gene families have expanded in the two basal tetraploidizations (2R) and the teleost fish third tetraploidization (3R), after which some vertebrate lineages have lost some of the duplicates. We review here some peptide families (neuropeptide Y, oxytocin-vasopressin, and somatostatin) where genomic information helps simplify nomenclature. This approach is useful also for other gene families, such as peptide receptors.

TRPC6 Mutational Analysis in a Large Cohort of Patients with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis

Nephrology, Dialysis, Transplantation : Official Publication of the European Dialysis and Transplant Association - European Renal Association. Oct, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19458060

Mutations in the TRPC6 gene have been reported in six families with adult-onset (17-57 years) autosomal dominant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Electrophysiology studies confirmed augmented calcium influx only in three of these six TRPC6 mutations. To date, the role of TRPC6 in childhood and adulthood non-familial forms is unknown.

[Validation of a New Test for Measuring of Tonal and Verbal Skills on Dichotic Listening]

Revista De Neurologia. Jun 16-30, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19507129

Dermatoscopy of a Primary Dermal Melanoma

The American Journal of Dermatopathology. Aug, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19590417

This is a case report of a primary dermal melanoma and its dermatoscopic findings. A 50-year-old man in 2002 presented on the right anterior aspect of the thorax a 1.5-cm-diameter lesion with a rough surface and multiple papules of "vascular-like" appearance. It lacked the usual dermatoscopic findings, such as atypical pigmented network and radial streaks, related to the infiltration of malignant melanoma cells into the epidermis. Papillomatous projections with light brown and dark brown blotchy areas were seen under dermatoscopy, due to dermal melanin reflection from macrophages and neoplastic melanocytic cells near the junctional area. Other areas of papillomatous projections had a light brown-pink color surrounded by a thin whitish septum caused by the reflection of dermal vessels.

Complex Evolution in the Neotropics: the Origin and Diversification of the Widespread Genus Leptodeira (Serpentes: Colubridae)

Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution. Dec, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19643196

Lineage diversification in the Neotropics is an interesting topic in evolutionary biology but is also one of the least understood. The abiotic and biotic complexity of the region precludes generalizations that can be drawn regarding the historical evolutionary processes responsible for the diversity observed. The snake genus Leptodeira provides an excellent opportunity to investigate such processes because it spans the entire Neotropical region. In this study, we infer the phylogenetic position of Leptodeira within Dipsadinae, estimate evolutionary relationships among and within Leptodeira species, and estimate the diversification time and biogeography of the genus. Three mitochondrial gene regions were sequenced for individuals representing all the Leptodeira species and most subspecies currently recognized. Additionally, two nuclear protein-coding gene regions were sequenced for representatives of each species and several genera within the Dipsadinae. We infer that several Leptodeira species are either paraphyletic or polyphyletic as currently recognized, and that most recognized subspecies are not monophyletic lineages. Despite the taxonomic discordance with evolutionary relationships, clades appear to correspond very well to major biogeographic regions of Mexico, Central America and South America. Our results thus highlight the important role of the Miocene and Pliocene for lineage diversification in the Neotropics. Additionally, our time estimates suggest that recent intraspecific phylogeographic structure is likely the result of habitat and climatic fluctuations during the Pleistocene. Cumulatively, our inferences of lineage diversification within Leptodeira suggest a complex evolutionary scenario in the Mexican transition zone and a north to south expansion with a final colonization of the tropics in South America.

Dynamic Nucleotide Mutation Gradients and Control Region Usage in Squamate Reptile Mitochondrial Genomes

Cytogenetic and Genome Research. 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 20215734

Gradients of nucleotide bias and substitution rates occur in vertebrate mitochondrial genomes due to the asymmetric nature of the replication process. The evolution of these gradients has previously been studied in detail in primates, but not in other vertebrate groups. From the primate study, the strengths of these gradients are known to evolve in ways that can substantially alter the substitution process, but it is unclear how rapidly they evolve over evolutionary time or how different they may be in different lineages or groups of vertebrates. Given the importance of mitochondrial genomes in phylogenetics and molecular evolutionary research, a better understanding of how asymmetric mitochondrial substitution gradients evolve would contribute key insights into how this gradient evolution may mislead evolutionary inferences, and how it may also be incorporated into new evolutionary models. Most snake mitochondrial genomes have an additional interesting feature, 2 nearly identical control regions, which vary among different species in the extent that they are used as origins of replication. Given the expanded sampling of complete snake genomes currently available, together with 2 additional snakes sequenced in this study, we reexamined gradient strength and CR usage in alethinophidian snakes as well as several lizards that possess dual CRs. Our results suggest that nucleotide substitution gradients (and corresponding nucleotide bias) and CR usage is highly labile over the approximately 200 m.y. of squamate evolution, and demonstrates greater overall variability than previously shown in primates. The evidence for the existence of such gradients, and their ability to evolve rapidly and converge among unrelated species suggests that gradient dynamics could easily mislead phylogenetic and molecular evolutionary inferences, and argues strongly that these dynamics should be incorporated into phylogenetic models.

Characterization of a Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor-selective Agonist, A-836339 [2,2,3,3-tetramethyl-cyclopropanecarboxylic Acid [3-(2-methoxy-ethyl)-4,5-dimethyl-3H-thiazol-(2Z)-ylidene]-amide], Using in Vitro Pharmacological Assays, in Vivo Pain Models, and Pharmacological Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics. Jan, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 18931146

Studies demonstrating the antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic effects of cannabinoid CB(2) receptor activation have been largely derived from the use of receptor-selective ligands. Here, we report the identification of A-836339 [2,2,3,3-tetramethyl-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid [3-(2-methoxy-ethyl)-4,5-dimethyl-3H-thiazol-(2Z)-ylidene]-amide], a potent and selective CB(2) agonist as characterized in in vitro pharmacological assays and in in vivo models of pain and central nervous system (CNS) behavior models. In radioligand binding assays, A-836339 displays high affinities at CB(2) receptors and selectivity over CB(1) receptors in both human and rat. Likewise, A-836339 exhibits high potencies at CB(2) and selectivity over CB(1) receptors in recombinant fluorescence imaging plate reader and cyclase functional assays. In addition A-836339 exhibits a profile devoid of significant affinity at other G-protein-coupled receptors and ion channels. A-836339 was characterized extensively in various animal pain models. In the complete Freund's adjuvant model of inflammatory pain, A-836339 exhibits a potent CB(2) receptor-mediated antihyperalgesic effect that is independent of CB(1) or mu-opioid receptors. A-836339 has also demonstrated efficacies in the chronic constrain injury (CCI) model of neuropathic pain, skin incision, and capsaicin-induced secondary mechanical hyperalgesia models. Furthermore, no tolerance was developed in the CCI model after subchronic treatment with A-836339 for 5 days. In assessing CNS effects, A-836339 exhibited a CB(1) receptor-mediated decrease of spontaneous locomotor activities at a higher dose, a finding consistent with the CNS activation pattern observed by pharmacological magnetic resonance imaging. These data demonstrate that A-836339 is a useful tool for use of studying CB(2) receptor pharmacology and for investigation of the role of CB(2) receptor modulation for treatment of pain in preclinical animal models.

Characterization of Human Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor Coupled to Chimeric Galpha(qi5) and Galpha(qo5) Proteins

European Journal of Pharmacology. Jan, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19071106

Cannabinoid CB(2) receptors may couple to a variety of G proteins and intracellular effector systems to regulate physiological and pathophysiological processes involved in inflammatory and neuropathic pain. In this study, the coupling of cannabinoid hCB(2) receptors to Galpha(qo5) and Galpha(qi5) proteins was studied and compared by investigating the pharmacological properties of HEK-293 cells co-expressing cannabinoid hCB(2) with chimeric Galpha(qo5) (HEK-hCB(2)-G(qo5)) or Galpha(qi5) (HEK-hCB(2)-G(qi5)). Both cell lines were found to be amendable for measuring cannabinoid CB(2) receptor agonist evoked Ca(2+) mobilization in a high-throughput manner. Comparison of binding affinities of ligands in homogenates prepared from both cell lines revealed similar affinities for [(3)H]CP55,940 displacement with the following rank order: CP55,940 approximately WIN55,212-2 > SR144528 > JWH015approximatelyAM1241approximately AM630 > SR141617A approximately AM251. In comparison at cannabinoid hCB(1) receptors: the rank order was: SR141617A approximately CP55,940 > AM251 > WIN55,212-2 > AM1241approximatelySR144528 > JWH015approximatelyAM630. No significant differences in cannabinoid receptor agonist (CP55,940 approximately WIN55,212-2 > JWH015) or antagonist(SR144528 approximately AM1241 > AM630 > AM251 approximately SR141617A) profiles were observed in HEK-hCB(2)-G(qo5) and HEK-hCB(2)-G(qi5) cells as determined using intracellular Ca(2+) measurements. Experiments with HEK-hCB(2)-G(qi5) cells carried out by investigating interactions among CP55,940, carbachol, thapsigargin, and U73122 revealed that the mechanism of cannabinoid hCB(2) receptor coupling via chimeric G proteins to Ca(2+) mobilization involves phospholipase C-inositol trisphosphate (PLC-IP(3)) and that it is less efficient in comparison to the endogenous muscarinic mediated PLC-IP(3)-Ca(2+) pathway. This study demonstrates that expressed cannabinoid CB(2) receptors couple equally well to Galpha(qo5) and Galpha(qi5) proteins and that receptor agonist or antagonist pharmacology is not influenced by the nature of these coupled G proteins when heterologously expressed.

Variations in the Electrostatic Landscape of Class II Human Leukocyte Antigen Molecule Induced by Modifications in the Myelin Basic Protein Peptide: a Theoretical Approach

PloS One. 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19132105

The receptor-ligand interactions involved in the formation of the complex between Class II Major Histocompatibility Complex molecules and antigenic peptides, which are essential for establishing an adaptive immunological response, were analyzed in the Class II Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)--Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) peptide complex (HLA-DRbeta1*1501-MBP) using a multipolar molecular electrostatic potential approach. The Human Leukocyte Antigen--peptide complex system was divided into four pockets together with their respective peptide fragment and the corresponding occupying amino acid was replaced by each of the remaining 19 amino acids. Partial atomic charges were calculated by a quantum chemistry approach at the Hatree Fock/3-21*G level, to study the behavior of monopole, dipole and quadrupole electrostatic multipolar moments. Two types of electrostatic behavior were distinguished in the pockets' amino acids: "anchoring" located in Pocket 1 and 4, and "recognition" located in Pocket 4 and 7. According to variations in the electrostatic landscape, pockets were ordered as: Pocket 1>Pocket 9>Pocket 4 approximately Pocket 7 which is in agreement with the binding ability reported for Class II Major Histocompatibility Complex pockets. In the same way, amino acids occupying the polymorphic positions beta13R, beta26F, beta28D, beta9W, beta74A, beta47F and beta57D were shown to be key for this Receptor-Ligand interaction. The results show that the multipolar molecular electrostatic potential approach is appropriate for characterizing receptor-ligand interactions in the MHC-antigenic peptide complex, which could have potential implications for synthetic vaccine design.

Intermediate Neuronal Progenitors (basal Progenitors) Produce Pyramidal-projection Neurons for All Layers of Cerebral Cortex

Cerebral Cortex (New York, N.Y. : 1991). Oct, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19168665

The developing cerebral cortex contains apical and basal types of neurogenic progenitor cells. Here, we investigated the cellular properties and neurogenic output of basal progenitors, also called intermediate neuronal progenitors (INPs). We found that basal mitoses expressing transcription factor Tbr2 (an INP marker) were present throughout corticogenesis, from embryonic day 10.5 through birth. Postnatally, Tbr2(+) progenitors were present in the dentate gyrus, subventricular zone (SVZ), and posterior periventricle (pPV). Two morphological subtypes of INPs were distinguished in the embryonic cortex, "short radial" in the ventricular zone (VZ) and multipolar in the SVZ, probably corresponding to molecularly defined INP subtypes. Unexpectedly, many short radial INPs appeared to contact the apical (ventricular) surface and some divided there. Time-lapse video microscopy suggested that apical INP divisions produced daughter INPs. Analysis of neurogenic divisions (Tis21-green fluorescent protein [GFP](+)) indicated that INPs may produce the majority of projection neurons for preplate, deep, and superficial layers. Conversely, proliferative INP divisions (Tis21-GFP(-)) increased from early to middle corticogenesis, concomitant with SVZ growth. Our findings support the hypothesis that regulated amplification of INPs may be an important factor controlling the balance of neurogenesis among different cortical layers.

Imported Cases of Malaria Admitted to Two Hospitals of Margarita Island, Venezuela, 1998-2005

Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease. Jan, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19174301

Imported cases of malaria constitute an important public health problem in many countries, even in those with autochthonous cases, where disease could be acquired in these areas and then seen in non-endemic regions. Non-immune populations are susceptible to complications due to malaria infection, particularly in malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. However, Plasmodium vivax the predominant Plasmodium spp. in Venezuela can also lead to severe malaria.

Widespread Expression of Inducible NOS and Citrulline in Lupus Nephritis Tissues

Inflammation Research : Official Journal of the European Histamine Research Society ... [et Al.]. Feb, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19184355

Examine the presence of functional inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in lupus nephritis lesions.

Photophysics of Phenalenone: Quantum-mechanical Investigation of Singlet-triplet Intersystem Crossing

Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics : PCCP. Mar, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19290339

We have examined the electronic and molecular structure of 1H-phenalen-1-one (phenalenone) in the electronic ground state and in the lowest excited states, as well as intersystem crossing. The electronic structure was calculated using a combination of density functional theory and multi-reference configuration interaction. Intersystem crossing rates were determined using Fermi's golden rule and taking direct and vibronic spin-orbit coupling into account. The required spin-orbit matrix elements were obtained applying a non-empirical spin-orbit mean-field approximation. Our calculated electronic energies are in good agreement with experimental data. We find the lowest excited singlet states to be of the npi* (S1) and pipi* (S2) type. Energetically accessible from S1 are two triplet states of the pipi* (T1) and npi* (T2) type, the latter being nearly degenerate to S1. This ordering of states is retained when the molecular structure in the electronically excited states is relaxed. We expect very efficient intersystem crossing between S1 and T1. Our calculated intersystem crossing rate is approximately 2 x 10(10) s(-1), which is in excellent agreement with the experimental value of 3.45 x 10(10) s(-1). Our estimated phosphorescence and fluorescence rates are many orders of magnitude smaller. Our results are in agreement with the experimentally observed behavior of phenalenone, including the high efficiency of 1O2 production.

Dermoscopy in the Diagnosis of Tungiasis

The British Journal of Dermatology. May, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19302067

Improving Availability of and Access to Opioids in Colombia: Description and Preliminary Results of an Action Plan for the Country

Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. Nov, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 19783400

Latin America consumes less than 2.7% of the morphine in the world, as reported by the governments to the International Narcotics Control Board. Methods to improve access to opioids for the treatment of pain have been developed by the Pain & Policy Studies Group (PPSG), a World Health Organization Collaborating Center at the University of Wisconsin. This article describes the preparation and implementation of an action plan in Colombia as a part of an international fellowship program on opioid policy developed by the PPSG and funded by the Open Society Institute. The action plan for Colombia included three steps: 1) a survey of regulators and health care providers to identify the current situation and their perceptions of opioid availability in the regions of the country; 2) a workshop with representatives of the Ministry of Health, the national and state competent authorities, pain and palliative care physicians, and international leaders; and 3) implementation workshops at the local level throughout the country. For the survey, response rates of 47% and 96% were registered among physicians and competent authorities, respectively. The survey identified significant regional differences in perceived opioid availability between physicians and regulators. Focus group discussions during the workshop identified several reasons leading to limited availability of opioids in the country, including deficiencies in the procurement process, insufficient human resources, excessive bureaucratic tasks, insufficient number of pharmacies authorized to dispense controlled medications in the country, lack of training in the health care professions, and overly restrictive laws and regulations governing opioid availability. The third step of the action plan has not been implemented. Additional and continuous monitoring needs to be implemented to measure the progress of this project.

Dietary Vitamin A Concentration Alters Fatty Acid Composition in Pigs

Meat Science. Feb, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 22064166

This experiment was conducted to study the effect of vitamin A concentration in the diet on fatty acid composition in pigs. One-hundred and twenty eight Duroc × (Large White × Landrace) castrated male pigs were used. Pigs were randomly distributed and located in cages of four pigs each to the following treatment: vitamin A-enriched diet (100,000IU/kg) (n=16) and control diet with a basal level (7500IU/kg) (n=16). The pigs were slaughtered at an average weight of 125.9kg. No effect of diet vitamin A level on performance, carcass traits and intramuscular fat percentage was observed. The retinol concentration in subcutaneous backfat and retinol and retinol palmitate contents in liver were higher in the pigs that were given the vitamin A enriched diet than in those receiving the control diet. However the vitamin A supplementation did not increase the retinol content in the muscle. Pigs receiving the vitamin A enriched diet showed a higher C16:0 and ∑SFA proportions in the outer layer and C18:0 and ∑SFA proportions in the inner layer. Moreover, the diet rich in vitamin A led to a reduction of C18:1 n-9 and ∑MUFA proportions in subcutaneous backfat inner layer. Dietary vitamin A concentration had not influence on main fatty acids composition of intramuscular lipids. Dietary vitamin A enrichment lead to a higher C16:0, ∑SFA concentration in liver lipids.

High Dietary Vitamin A Interferes with Tissue α-tocopherol Concentrations in Fattening Pigs: a Study That Examines Administration and Withdrawal Times

Animal : an International Journal of Animal Bioscience. Sep, 2009  |  Pubmed ID: 22444902

This study aimed to assess the interaction between different dietary vitamin A (dVitA) levels and the same concentration of vitamin E (100 IU all-rac-α-tocopheryl acetate/kg feed) in growing-finishing pigs. In the first experiment, two fat sources × two dVitA levels (0 v. 100 000 IU) were used. The supplementation of 100 000 IU dVitA induced a range of 5.13 to 30.03 μg retinol/g liver, 62.78 to 426.88 μg retinol palmitate/g liver, and 0.60 to 1.96 μg retinol/g fat. Dietary fat did not affect retinol or retinyl palmitate deposition in pigs. The high concentration of dVitA produced lower fat and liver α-tocopherol concentrations, and increased susceptibility of muscle tissue to oxidation. A second experiment was carried out to study the retinol and α-tocopherol retention at different withdrawal times prior to slaughter (two dVitA levels; 0 v. 100 000 IU). A high dose of 100 000 IU vitamin A during a short 2-week period was enough to induce α-tocopherol depletion in liver and fat to a similar extent as when 100 000 IU were administered during the whole fattening. Muscle, fat and liver α-tocopherol concentrations were not affected by dVitA in the 1300-13 000 IU/kg range, but liver α-tocopherol concentration was higher when vitamin A was removed from the vitamin mix 5 weeks prior to slaughter (experiment 3).

Tbr1 Regulates Regional and Laminar Identity of Postmitotic Neurons in Developing Neocortex

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. Jul, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20615956

Areas and layers of the cerebral cortex are specified by genetic programs that are initiated in progenitor cells and then, implemented in postmitotic neurons. Here, we report that Tbr1, a transcription factor expressed in postmitotic projection neurons, exerts positive and negative control over both regional (areal) and laminar identity. Tbr1 null mice exhibited profound defects of frontal cortex and layer 6 differentiation, as indicated by down-regulation of gene-expression markers such as Bcl6 and Cdh9. Conversely, genes that implement caudal cortex and layer 5 identity, such as Bhlhb5 and Fezf2, were up-regulated in Tbr1 mutants. Tbr1 implements frontal identity in part by direct promoter binding and activation of Auts2, a frontal cortex gene implicated in autism. Tbr1 regulates laminar identity in part by downstream activation or maintenance of Sox5, an important transcription factor controlling neuronal migration and corticofugal axon projections. Similar to Sox5 mutants, Tbr1 mutants exhibit ectopic axon projections to the hypothalamus and cerebral peduncle. Together, our findings show that Tbr1 coordinately regulates regional and laminar identity of postmitotic cortical neurons.

[Conceptual Model for Identifying Factors Relevant to the Safety of Children in School Buses]

Revista Panamericana De Salud Pública = Pan American Journal of Public Health. Jun, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20721442

Prepare a conceptual model that facilitates understanding of the relationships between the variables that lead children to adopt postures in school transportation vehicles that increase injuries in traffic accidents.

Effect of Diet Saturation on Growth Performance, Carcass Characteristics and Fat Quality of Heavy Pigs

Food Science and Technology International = Ciencia Y Tecnología De Los Alimentos Internacional. Aug, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21339149

Twenty-four castrated male (Duroc × Large Withe × Landrace) with an average weight of 69.4 kg were randomly distributed and located in individual cages and given the experimental diets. Diets were provided ad libitum and were formulated containing three levels of palm oil and hydropalm (hydrogenated palm stearine): 4% and 0% (low saturation), 2% and 2% (moderate saturation) and 0% and 4% (high saturation). Pigs were slaughtered at a local slaughterhouse with an average weight of 129.1 kg. The dietary treatment had no significant influence on growth performances and carcass characteristics. The diet saturation led to an increase of C18:0 and ΣSFA (saturated fatty acids) proportions and to a reduction of C18:1 n-9, C18:2 n-6 and ΣPUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acids) proportions and in subcutaneous backfat outer and inner layers. The dietary treatment affected significantly the melting point of subcutaneous backfat outer layer but had no significant influence on the melting point of the subcutaneous backfat inner layer. However, a linear effect of C18:0 proportion of subcutaneous backfat outer and inner layers on the melting point was observed. Dietary treatment had no significant effect on the main fatty acids pattern of intramuscular neutral and polar lipids from Longissimus dorsi muscle. In neutral lipids of liver a dietary influence (p < 0.05), but not a clear dose--response relationship, was observed for C16:0, C18:1 n-9, ΣSFA and ΣPUFA fatty acids, whereas in polar lipids the dietary treatment had no significant effect on the main fatty acids proportions. No effect of diet saturation was found on rheological properties of fat except for the hardness. The hardness was higher in the pigs that received the diet with 0% of palm oil and 4% hydropalm than in those given the diet with 4% of palm oil and 0% hydropalm.

Rapid Identification of Thousands of Copperhead Snake (Agkistrodon Contortrix) Microsatellite Loci from Modest Amounts of 454 Shotgun Genome Sequence

Molecular Ecology Resources. Mar, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21565030

Optimal integration of next-generation sequencing into mainstream research requires re-evaluation of how problems can be reasonably overcome and what questions can be asked. One potential application is the rapid acquisition of genomic information to identify microsatellite loci for evolutionary, population genetic and chromosome linkage mapping research on non-model and not previously sequenced organisms. Here, we report on results using high-throughput sequencing to obtain a large number of microsatellite loci from the venomous snake Agkistrodon contortrix, the copperhead. We used the 454 Genome Sequencer FLX next-generation sequencing platform to sample randomly ∼27 Mbp (128 773 reads) of the copperhead genome, thus sampling about 2% of the genome of this species. We identified microsatellite loci in 11.3% of all reads obtained, with 14 612 microsatellite loci identified in total, 4564 of which had flanking sequences suitable for polymerase chain reaction primer design. The random sequencing-based approach to identify microsatellites was rapid, cost-effective and identified thousands of useful microsatellite loci in a previously unstudied species.

[Level of Knowledge Regarding Influenza A (H1N1) 2009]

Revista De Salud Pública (Bogotá, Colombia). Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21755106

Descriptive research was conducted for determining the level of knowledge (LK) held by people from Iribarren in the state of Lara, Venezuela, regarding influenza A (H1N1) 2009.

Dietary CLA Alters Intramuscular Fat and Fatty Acid Composition of Pig Skeletal Muscle and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue

Meat Science. Jun, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20374891

The present study was conducted to determinate the responsiveness of different levels of dietary conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) on intramuscular fat (IMF) and fatty acid composition of skeletal muscle and fat in pigs fed from 59.5 to 133.5kg. Forty female Large Whitex(Large WhitexLandrace) pigs were used. Four levels (0%, 0.5%, 1% and 2%) of a commercial enriched CLA oil supplementation (60% of CLA isomers, 30% cis-9, trans-11 and 30% trans-10, cis-12) were fed to pigs. Carcass, ham, foreleg and loin weights were recorded. Dietary CLA enrichment increased the loin weight (P<0.01) and the combined weights of hams+forelegs+loins (P<0.02). IMF content in Longissimus dorsi was also increased by dietary CLA treatment (P<0.001) and a linear response was observed. Dietary CLA increased saturated fatty acids (SFA) and decreased monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) in muscle and adipose tissue (P<0.001). Feeding 1% CLA to finishing swine increases IMF in heavy pigs slaughtered at an average weight of 133.5kg.

Fat Frogs, Mobile Genes: Unexpected Phylogeographic Patterns for the Ornate Chorus Frog (Pseudacris Ornata)

Molecular Ecology. Jun, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20497321

The southeastern coastal plain of the United States is a region marked by extraordinary phylogeographic congruence that is frequently attributed to the changing sea levels that occurred during the glacial-interglacial cycles of the Pleistocene epoch. A phylogeographic break corresponding to the Apalachicola River has been suggested for many species studied to date that are endemic to this region. Here, we used this pattern of phylogeographic congruence to develop and test explicit hypotheses about the genetic structure in the ornate chorus frog (Pseudacris ornata). Using 1299 bp of mtDNA sequence and seven nuclear microsatellite markers in 13 natural populations of P. ornata, we found three clades corresponding to geographically distinct regions; one spans the Apalachicola River (Southern Clade), one encompasses Georgia and South Carolina (Central Clade) and a third comprises more northerly individuals (Northern Clade). However, it does not appear that typical phylogeographic barriers demarcate these clades. Instead, isolation by distance across the range of the entire species explained the pattern of genetic variation that we observed. We propose that P. ornata was historically widespread in the southeastern United States, and that a balance between genetic drift and migration was the root of the genetic divergence among populations. Additionally, we investigated fine-scale patterns of genetic structure and found the spatial scale at which there was significant genetic structure varied among the regions studied. Furthermore, we discuss our results in light of other phylogeographic studies of southeastern coastal plain organisms and in relation to amphibian conservation and management.

Indol-3-ylcycloalkyl Ketones: Effects of N1 Substituted Indole Side Chain Variations on CB(2) Cannabinoid Receptor Activity

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. Jan, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 19921781

Several 3-acylindoles with high affinity for the CB(2) cannabinoid receptor and selectivity over the CB(1) receptor have been prepared. A variety of 3-acyl substituents were investigated, and the tetramethylcyclopropyl group was found to lead to high affinity CB(2) agonists (5, 16). Substitution at the N1-indole position was then examined. A series of aminoalkylindoles was prepared and several substituted aminoethyl derivatives were active (23-27, 5) at the CB(2) receptor. A study of N1 nonaromatic side chain variants provided potent agonists at the CB(2) receptor (16, 35-41, 44-47, 49-54, and 57-58). Several polar side chains (alcohols, oxazolidinone) were well-tolerated for CB(2) receptor activity (41, 50), while others (amide, acid) led to weaker or inactive compounds (55 and 56). N1 aromatic side chains also afforded several high affinity CB(2) receptor agonists (61, 63, 65, and 69) but were generally less potent in an in vitro CB(2) functional assay than were nonaromatic side chain analogues.

The Role of Comparative Panoramic Visualization of Radiographs in the Diagnosis of Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip

Pediatric Radiology. Feb, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 19937241

The Circumorbital Bones of the Gekkota (Reptilia: Squamata)

Anatomical Record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007). Mar, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 19937637

The enormous variation of the orbit in lepidosaurs is better conceptualized in terms of composition and configuration. Broadly, the orbit varies from having totally closed rim to being open posteriorly. Two processes are responsible for changes in the components of the circumorbital series, element loss and fusion. The resulting contacts among elements are the main factors determining orbital configuration. Here, we present a revision of the gekkotan circumorbital bones in the general context of the Lepidosauria. From observations of a sample of 105 species of gekkotans prepared using different techniques, we describe the main changes in the orbit and corroborate the presence or absence of some of the ambiguous elements such as the lacrimal and the jugal. The supraorbital bones of squamates are reviewed and some problems of homology are evaluated using recent phylogenenetic hypothesis.

Autism Susceptibility Candidate 2 (Auts2) Encodes a Nuclear Protein Expressed in Developing Brain Regions Implicated in Autism Neuropathology

Gene Expression Patterns : GEP. Jan, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 19948250

Autism susceptibility candidate 2 (Auts2) is a gene associated with autism and mental retardation, whose function is unknown. Expression of Auts2 mRNA and protein were studied in the developing mouse brain by in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. Auts2 mRNA was highly expressed in the developing cerebral cortex and cerebellum, regions often affected by neuropathological changes in autism, and a few other brain regions. On embryonic day (E) 12, Auts2 mRNA was expressed in the cortical preplate, where it colocalized with Tbr1, a transcription factor specific for postmitotic projection neurons. From E16 to postnatal day 21, Auts2 was expressed most abundantly in frontal cortex, hippocampus and cerebellum, including Purkinje cells and deep nuclei. High levels of Auts2 were also detected in developing dorsal thalamus, olfactory bulb, inferior colliculus and substantia nigra. Auts2 protein showed similar regional expression patterns as the mRNA. At the cellular level, Auts2 protein was localized in the nuclei of neurons and some neuronal progenitors.

A Scalable, Fully Automated Process for Construction of Sequence-ready Barcoded Libraries for 454

Genome Biology. 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20137071

We present an automated, high throughput library construction process for 454 technology. Sample handling errors and cross-contamination are minimized via end-to-end barcoding of plasticware, along with molecular DNA barcoding of constructs. Automation-friendly magnetic bead-based size selection and cleanup steps have been devised, eliminating major bottlenecks and significant sources of error. Using this methodology, one technician can create 96 sequence-ready 454 libraries in 2 days, a dramatic improvement over the standard method.

Preventing Postpartum Smoking Relapse Among Diverse Low-income Women: a Randomized Clinical Trial

Nicotine & Tobacco Research : Official Journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. Apr, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20154055

Postpartum relapse rates are high among women who spontaneously quit smoking during pregnancy. This randomized clinical trial tested a Motivation and Problem-Solving (MAPS) treatment for reducing postpartum relapse among diverse low-income women who quit smoking during pregnancy (N = 251; 32% Black, 30% Latino, and 36% White; 55% <$30,000/year household income).

A Multi-organ Transcriptome Resource for the Burmese Python (Python Molurus Bivittatus)

BMC Research Notes. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21867488

ABSTRACT:

Discovery of Highly Divergent Repeat Landscapes in Snake Genomes Using High-throughput Sequencing

Genome Biology and Evolution. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21572095

We conducted a comprehensive assessment of genomic repeat content in two snake genomes, the venomous copperhead (Agkistrodon contortrix) and the Burmese python (Python molurus bivittatus). These two genomes are both relatively small (∼1.4 Gb) but have surprisingly extensive differences in the abundance and expansion histories of their repeat elements. In the python, the readily identifiable repeat element content is low (21%), similar to bird genomes, whereas that of the copperhead is higher (45%), similar to mammalian genomes. The copperhead's greater repeat content arises from the recent expansion of many different microsatellites and transposable element (TE) families, and the copperhead had 23-fold greater levels of TE-related transcripts than the python. This suggests the possibility that greater TE activity in the copperhead is ongoing. Expansion of CR1 LINEs in the copperhead genome has resulted in TE-mediated microsatellite expansion ("microsatellite seeding") at a scale several orders of magnitude greater than previously observed in vertebrates. Snakes also appear to be prone to horizontal transfer of TEs, particularly in the copperhead lineage. The reason that the copperhead has such a small genome in the face of so much recent expansion of repeat elements remains an open question, although selective pressure related to extreme metabolic performance is an obvious candidate. TE activity can affect gene regulation as well as rates of recombination and gene duplication, and it is therefore possible that TE activity played a role in the evolution of major adaptations in snakes; some evidence suggests this may include the evolution of venom repertoires.

Race/ethnicity Moderates the Effect of Prepartum Menthol Cigarette Use on Postpartum Smoking Abstinence

Nicotine & Tobacco Research : Official Journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21622498

Little is known about the influence of prepartum menthol cigarette use on postpartum smoking abstinence or how race/ethnicity might moderate this relationship. The current study addressed that gap by testing these relationships among racially/ethnically diverse women who quit smoking during pregnancy (N = 244; 33% African American, 31% Latina, 36% White).

Dermatoscopy of an Angiomatoid Spitz Nevus

The American Journal of Dermatopathology. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21712688

To date, only 12 cases of angiomatoid Spitz nevus have been characterized in the literature. We present the first case of angiomatoid Spitz nevus in which dermatoscopic findings are described.

[Development of Subcutaneous Nodules After Mesotherapy]

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21722998

[Radiological Deterioration in a Patient with Cavitary Lung Lesion]

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21354664

Jaw Adductor Muscles Across Lepidosaurs: a Reappraisal

Anatomical Record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007). Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21901848

The exact homologies of tetrapod jaw muscles remain unresolved, and this provides a barrier for phylogenetic analysis and tracing character evolution. Here, lepidosaur jaw muscles are surveyed using direct examination of species from 23 families and published descriptions of species from 10 families. A revised nomenclature is applied according to proposed homologies with Latimeria. Among lepidosaurs, variation was found in many aspects of jaw muscle anatomy. The superficial layers mm. levator and retractor anguli oris (LAO and RAO) are present in Sphenodon but not all squamates. The external jaw adductor muscles universally present in lepidosaurs are homologous with the main adductor muscle, A2, of Latimeria and include four layers: superficialis (A2-SUP), medialis (A2-M), profundus (A2-PRO), and posterior (A2-PVM). The A2-SUP appears divided in Agamidae, Gekkota, Xantusiidae, and Varanidae. The A2-M is layered lateromedial in lizards but anteroposterior in snakes. The names pseudotemporalis (PS) and pterygomandibularis (PTM) are recommended for subdivisions of the internal adductors of reptiles and amphibians, because the homology of this muscle with the A3' and A3 ″ of Latimeria remains inconclusive. The intramandibularis of lepidosaurs and Latimeria (A-ω) are homologous. The distribution of six jaw muscle characters was found to plot more parsimoniously on phylogenies based on morphological rather than and molecular data. Character mapping indicates that Squamata presents reduction in the divisions of the A2-M, Scincoidea presents reduction or loss of LAO, and two apomorphic features are found for the Gekkota.

Multiple Autism-like Behaviors in a Novel Transgenic Mouse Model

Behavioural Brain Research. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21093492

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses are behaviorally based with no defined universal biomarkers, occur at a 1:110 ratio in the population, and predominantly affect males compared to females at approximately a 4:1 ratio. One approach to investigate and identify causes of ASD is to use organisms that display abnormal behavioral responses that model ASD-related impairments. This study describes a novel transgenic mouse, MALTT, which was generated using a forward genetics approach. It was determined that the transgene integrated within a non-coding region on the X chromosome. The MALTT line exhibited a complete repertoire of ASD-like behavioral deficits in all three domains required for an ASD diagnosis: reciprocal social interaction, communication, and repetitive or inflexible behaviors. Specifically, MALTT male mice showed deficits in social interaction and interest, abnormalities in pup and juvenile ultrasonic vocalization communications, and exhibited a repetitive stereotypy. Abnormalities were also observed in the domain of sensory function, a secondary phenotype prevalently associated with ASD. Mapping and expression studies suggested that the Fam46 gene family may be linked to the observed ASD-related behaviors. The MALTT line provides a unique genetic model for examining the underlying biological mechanisms involved in ASD-related behaviors.

High-quality Draft Assemblies of Mammalian Genomes from Massively Parallel Sequence Data

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21187386

Massively parallel DNA sequencing technologies are revolutionizing genomics by making it possible to generate billions of relatively short (~100-base) sequence reads at very low cost. Whereas such data can be readily used for a wide range of biomedical applications, it has proven difficult to use them to generate high-quality de novo genome assemblies of large, repeat-rich vertebrate genomes. To date, the genome assemblies generated from such data have fallen far short of those obtained with the older (but much more expensive) capillary-based sequencing approach. Here, we report the development of an algorithm for genome assembly, ALLPATHS-LG, and its application to massively parallel DNA sequence data from the human and mouse genomes, generated on the Illumina platform. The resulting draft genome assemblies have good accuracy, short-range contiguity, long-range connectivity, and coverage of the genome. In particular, the base accuracy is high (≥99.95%) and the scaffold sizes (N50 size = 11.5 Mb for human and 7.2 Mb for mouse) approach those obtained with capillary-based sequencing. The combination of improved sequencing technology and improved computational methods should now make it possible to increase dramatically the de novo sequencing of large genomes. The ALLPATHS-LG program is available at http://www.broadinstitute.org/science/programs/genome-biology/crd.

Evolution of the Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein (IGFBP) Family

Endocrinology. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21505050

The evolution of the IGF binding protein (IGFBP) gene family has been difficult to resolve. Both chromosomal and serial duplications have been suggested as mechanisms for the expansion of this gene family. We have identified and annotated IGFBP sequences from a wide selection of vertebrate species as well as Branchiostoma floridae and Ciona intestinalis. By combining detailed sequence analysis with sequence-based phylogenies and chromosome information, we arrive at the following scenario: the ancestral chordate IGFBP gene underwent a local gene duplication, resulting in a gene pair adjacent to a HOX cluster. Subsequently, the gene family expanded in the two basal vertebrate tetraploidization (2R) resulting in the six IGFBP types that are presently found in placental mammals. The teleost fish ancestor underwent a third tetraploidization (3R) that further expanded the IGFBP repertoire. The five sequenced teleost fish genomes retain 9-11 of IGFBP genes. This scenario is supported by the phylogenies of three adjacent gene families in the HOX gene regions, namely the epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) and the Ikaros and distal-less (DLX) transcription factors. Our sequence comparisons show that several important structural components in the IGFBPs are ancestral vertebrate features that have been maintained in all orthologs, for instance the integrin interaction motif Arg-Gly-Asp in IGFBP-2. In contrast, the Arg-Gly-Asp motif in IGFBP-1 has arisen independently in mammals. The large degree of retention of IGFBP genes after the ancient expansion of the gene family strongly suggests that each gene evolved distinct and important functions early in vertebrate evolution.

Does Plant Diversity Benefit Agroecosystems? A Synthetic Review

Ecological Applications : a Publication of the Ecological Society of America. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21516884

Predictive theory on how plant diversity promotes herbivore suppression through movement patterns, host associations, and predation promises a potential alternative to pesticide-intensive monoculture crop production. We used meta-analysis on 552 experiments in 45 articles published over the last 10 years to test if plant diversification schemes reduce herbivores and/or increase the natural enemies of herbivores as predicted by associational resistance hypotheses, the enemies hypothesis, and attraction and repellency model applications in agriculture. We found extensive support for these models with intercropping schemes, inclusion of flowering plants, and use of plants that repel herbivores or attract them away from the crop. Overall, herbivore suppression, enemy enhancement, and crop damage suppression effects were significantly stronger on diversified crops than on crops with none or fewer associated plant species. However, a relatively small, but significantly negative, mean effect size for crop yield indicated that pest-suppressive diversification schemes interfered with production, in part because of reducing densities of the main crop by replacing it with intercrops or non-crop plants. This first use of meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of diversification schemes, a potentially more powerful tool than tallies of significant positive and negative outcomes (vote-counting), revealed stronger overall effects on all parameters measured compared to previous reviews. Our analysis of the same articles used in a recent review facilitates comparisons of vote-counting and meta-analysis, and shows that pronounced results of the meta-analysis are not well explained by a reduction in articles that met its stricter criteria. Rather, compared to outcome counts, effect sizes were rarely neutral (equal to zero), and a mean effect size value for mixed outcomes could be calculated. Problematic statistical properties of vote-counting were avoided with meta-analysis, thus providing a more precise test of the hypotheses. The unambiguous and encouraging results from this meta-analysis of previous research should motivate ecologists to conduct more mechanistic experiments to improve the odds of designing effective crop diversification schemes for improved pest regulation and enhanced crop yield.

On Molecular Graph Comparison

Current Computer-aided Drug Design. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21534925

Since the last half of the nineteenth century, molecular graphs have been present in several branches of chemistry. When used for molecular structure representation, they have been compared after mapping the corresponding graphs into mathematical objects. However, direct molecular comparison of molecular graphs is a research field less explored. The goal of this mini-review is to show some distance and similarity coefficients which were proposed to directly compare molecular graphs or which could be useful to do so.

Metabolic Networks: Beyond the Graph

Current Computer-aided Drug Design. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21539508

Drugs are devised to enter into the metabolism of an organism in order to produce a desired effect. From the chemical point of view, cellular metabolism is constituted by a complex network of reactions transforming metabolites one in each other. Knowledge on the structure of this network could help to develop novel methods for drug design, and to comprehend the root of known unexpected side effects. Many large-scale studies on the structure of metabolic networks have been developed following models based on different kinds of graphs as the fundamental image of the reaction network. Graphs models, however, comport wrong assumptions regarding the structure of reaction networks that may lead into wrong conclusions if they are not taken into account. In this article we critically review some graph-theoretical approaches to the analysis of centrality, vulnerability and modularity of metabolic networks, analyzing their limitations in estimating these key network properties, consider some proposals explicit or implicitly based on directed hypergraphs regarding their ability to overcome these issues, and review some recent implementation improvements that make the application of these models in increasingly large networks a viable option.

A New Genus of Miniaturized and Pug-nosed Gecko from South America (Sphaerodactylidae: Gekkota)

Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22125341

Sphaerodactyl geckos comprise five genera distributed across Central and South America and the Caribbean. We estimated phylogenetic relationships among sphaerodactyl genera using both separate and combined analyses of seven nuclear genes. Relationships among genera were incongruent at different loci and phylogenies were characterized by short, in some cases zero length, internal branches and poor phylogenetic support at most nodes. We recovered a polyphyletic Coleodactylus, with Coleodactylus amazonicus being deeply divergent from the remaining Coleodactylus species sampled. The C. amazonicus lineage possessed unique codon deletions in the genes PTPN12 and RBMX while the remaining Coleodactylus species had unique codon deletions in RAG1. Topology tests could not reject a monophyletic Coleodactylus, but we show that short internal branch lengths decreased the accuracy of topology tests because there were not enough data along short branches to support one phylogenetic hypothesis over another. Morphological data corroborated results of the molecular phylogeny, with Coleodactylus exhibiting substantial morphological heterogeneity. We identified a suite of unique craniofacial features that differentiate C. amazonicus not only from other Coleodactylus species, but also from all other geckos. We describe this novel sphaerodactyl lineage as a new genus, Chatogekko gen. nov. We present a detailed osteology of Chatogekko, characterizing osteological correlates of miniaturization that provide a framework for future studies in sphaerodactyl systematics and biology.

Using Microelectrode Models for Real Time Cell-culture Monitoring

Conference Proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Conference. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22255212

This paper proposes a cell-microelectrode model for cell biometry applications, based on the area overlap as main parameter. The model can be applied to cell size identification, cell count, and their extension to cell growth and dosimetry protocols. Experiments performed with comercial electrodes are presented, illustrating a procedure to obtain cell number in both growth and dosimetry processes. Results obtained for the AA8 cell line are promising.

Synthesis and Evaluation of 2-amido-3-carboxamide Thiophene CB(2) Receptor Agonists for Pain Management

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry Letters. Apr, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22370265

SAR studies on a series of thiophene amide derivatives provided CB(2) receptor agonists. The activity of the compounds was characterized by radioligand binding determination, multiple functional assays, ADME, and pharmacokinetic studies. A representative compound with selectivity for CB(2) over CB(1) effectively produced analgesia in behavioral models of neuropathic, inflammatory, and postsurgical pain. Control experiments using a CB(2) antagonist demonstrated the efficacy in the pain models resulted from CB(2) agonism.

A Quantum Chemical Investigation of the Electronic Structure of Thionine

Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences : Official Journal of the European Photochemistry Association and the European Society for Photobiology. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22134484

We have examined the electronic and molecular structure of 3,7-diaminophenothiazin-5-ium dye (thionine) in the electronic ground state and in the lowest excited states. The electronic structure was calculated using a combination of density functional theory and multi-reference configuration interaction (DFT/MRCI). Equilibrium geometries were optimized employing (time-dependent) density functional theory (B3LYP functional) combined with the TZVP basis set. Solvent effects were estimated using the COSMO model and micro-hydration with up to five explicit water molecules. Our calculated electronic energies are in good agreement with experimental data. We find the lowest excited singlet and triplet states at the ground state geometry to be of π→π* (S(1), S(2), T(1), T(2)) and n→π* (S(3), T(3)) character. This order changes when the molecular structure in the electronically excited states is relaxed. Geometry relaxation has almost no effect on the energy of the S(1) and T(1) states (~0.02 eV). The relaxation effects on the energies of S(2) and T(2) are moderate (0.14-0.20 eV). The very small emission energy results in a very low fluorescence rate. While we were not able to locate the energetic minimum of the S(3) state, we found a non-planar minimum for the T(3) state with an energy which is very close to the energy of the S(1) minimum in the gas phase (0.04 eV above). When hydration effects are taken into account, the n→π* states S(3) and T(3) are strongly blueshifted (0.33 and 0.46 eV), while the π→π* states are only slightly affected (<0.06 eV).

Visual Working Memory in Deaf Children with Diverse Communication Modes: Improvement by Differential Outcomes

Research in Developmental Disabilities. Mar-Apr, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22119682

Although visual functions have been proposed to be enhanced in deaf individuals, empirical studies have not yet established clear evidence on this issue. The present study aimed to determine whether deaf children with diverse communication modes had superior visual memory and whether their performance was improved by the use of differential outcomes. Severely or profoundly deaf children who employed spoken Spanish, Spanish Sign Language (SSL), and both spoken Spanish and SSL modes of communication were tested in a delayed matching-to-sample task for visual working memory assessment. Hearing controls were used to compare performance. Participants were tested in two conditions, differential outcome and non-differential outcome conditions. Deaf groups with either oral or SSL modes of communication completed the task with less accuracy than bilingual and control hearing children. In addition, the performances of all groups improved through the use of differential outcomes.

Yeast Sterol Regulatory Element-binding Protein (SREBP) Cleavage Requires Cdc48 and Dsc5, a Ubiquitin Regulatory X Domain-containing Subunit of the Golgi Dsc E3 Ligase

The Journal of Biological Chemistry. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22086920

Schizosaccharomyces pombe Sre1 is a membrane-bound transcription factor that controls adaptation to hypoxia. Like its mammalian homolog, sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP), Sre1 activation requires release from the membrane. However, in fission yeast, this release occurs through a strikingly different mechanism that requires the Golgi Dsc E3 ubiquitin ligase complex and the proteasome. The mechanistic details of Sre1 cleavage, including the link between the Dsc E3 ligase complex and proteasome, are not well understood. Here, we present results of a genetic selection designed to identify additional components required for Sre1 cleavage. From the selection, we identified two new components of the fission yeast SREBP pathway: Dsc5 and Cdc48. The AAA (ATPase associated with diverse cellular activities) ATPase Cdc48 and Dsc5, a ubiquitin regulatory X domain-containing protein, interact with known Dsc complex components and are required for SREBP cleavage. These findings provide a mechanistic link between the Dsc E3 ligase complex and the proteasome in SREBP cleavage and add to a growing list of similarities between the Dsc E3 ligase and membrane E3 ligases involved in endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation.

[A 95 Year Old Woman with Bilateral Nodular Pulmonary Pattern]

Medicina Clínica. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 20594564