Recommended Levels of Physical Activity to Avoid an Excess of Body Fat in European Adolescents: the HELENA Study

American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Sep, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20709251

It is unclear how much physical activity is necessary to prevent obesity during adolescence.

Testosterone Metabolism Revisited: Discovery of New Metabolites

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry. Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20711771

The metabolism of testosterone is revisited. Four previously unreported metabolites were detected in urine after hydrolysis with KOH using a liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method and precursor ion scan mode. The metabolites were characterized by a product ion scan obtained with accurate mass measurements. Androsta-4,6-dien-3,17-dione, androsta-1,4-dien-3,17-dione, 17-hydroxy-androsta-4,6-dien-3-one and 15-androsten-3,17-dione were proposed as feasible structures for these metabolites on the basis of the mass spectrometry data. The proposed structures were confirmed by analysis of synthetic reference compounds. Only 15-androsten-3,17-dione could not be confirmed, owing to the lack of a commercially available standard. That all four compounds are testosterone metabolites was confirmed by the qualitative analysis of several urine samples collected before and after administration of testosterone undecanoate. The metabolite androsta-1,4-dien-3,17-dione has a structure analogous to that of the exogenous anabolic steroid boldenone. Specific transitions for boldenone and its metabolite 17β-hydroxy-5β-androst-1-en-3-one were also monitored. Both compounds were also detected after KOH treatment, suggesting that this metabolic pathway is involved in the endogenous detection of boldenone previously reported by several authors.

Unprecedented H-atom Transfer from Water to Ketyl Radicals Mediated by Cp(2)TiCl

Dalton Transactions (Cambridge, England : 2003). Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20714477

The H-atom transfer (HAT) from water to ketyl radicals, mediated by titanocene(iii) aqua-complexes, can explain the Ti(III)-promoted reduction of ketones in aqueous medium better than the conventional House mechanism. Moreover, we also report novel evidences supporting the existence of these titanocene(iii) aqua-complexes.

Prevalence of Steroid Sulfatase Deficiency in California According to Race and Ethnicity

Prenatal Diagnosis. Sep, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20715120

Estimate steroid sulfatase deficiency (STSD) prevalence among California's racial/ethnic groups using data from a previous study focused on prenatal detection of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS). SLOS and STSD both have low maternal serum unconjugated estriol (uE3) levels.

Recommended Levels and Intensities of Physical Activity to Avoid Low-cardiorespiratory Fitness in European Adolescents: The HELENA Study

American Journal of Human Biology : the Official Journal of the Human Biology Council. Nov-Dec, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20721983

The purpose of this study was to determine the sex-specific physical activity (PA) intensity thresholds that best discriminate between unhealthy/healthy cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF).

Characterization of Enterococcus Faecalis-infecting Phages (enterophages) As Markers of Human Fecal Pollution in Recreational Waters

Water Research. Sep, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20723963

Enterophages are a novel group of phages that specifically infect Enterococcus faecalis and have been recently isolated from environmental water samples. Although enterophages have not been conclusively linked to human fecal pollution, we are currently characterizing enterophages to propose them as viral indicators and possible surrogates of enteric viruses in recreational waters. Little is known about the morphological or genetic diversity which will have an impact on their potential as markers of human fecal contamination. In the present study we are determining if enterophages can be grouped by their ability to replicate at different temperatures, and if different groups are present in the feces of different animals. As one of the main objectives is to determine if these phages can be used as indicators of the presence of enteric viruses, the survival rate under different conditions was also determined as was their prevalence in sewage and a large watershed. Coliphages were used as a means of comparison in the prevalence and survival studies. Results indicated that the isolates are mainly DNA viruses. Their morphology as well as their ability to form viral plaques at different temperatures indicates that several groups of enterophages are present in the environment. Coliphage and enterophage concentrations throughout the watershed were lower than those of thermotolerant coliforms and enterococci. Enterophage concentrations were lower than coliphages at all sampling points. Enterophages showed diverse inactivation rates and T(90) values across different incubation temperatures in both fresh and marine waters and sand. Further molecular characterization of enterophages may allow us to develop probes for the real-time detection of these alternative indicators of human fecal pollution.

Controlled Delivery Using Oligonucleotide-capped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

Angewandte Chemie (International Ed. in English). Sep, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20737526

Intraocular Lens Alignment from Purkinje and Scheimpflug Imaging

Clinical & Experimental Optometry : Journal of the Australian Optometrical Association. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20738324

The improved designs of intraocular lenses (IOLs) implanted during cataract surgery demand understanding of the possible effects of lens misalignment on optical performance. In this review, we describe the implementation, set-up and validation of two methods to measure in vivo tilt and decentration of IOLs, one based on Purkinje imaging and the other on Scheimpflug imaging. The Purkinje system images the reflections of an oblique collimated light source on the anterior cornea and anterior and posterior IOL surfaces and relies on the well supported assumption of the linearity of the Purkinje images with respect to IOL tilt and decentration. Scheimpflug imaging requires geometrical distortion correction and image processing techniques to retrieve the pupillary axis, IOL axis and pupil centre from the three-dimensional anterior segment image of the eye. Validation of the techniques using a physical eye model indicates that IOL tilt is estimated within an accuracy of 0.261 degree and decentration within 0.161 mm. Measurements on patients implanted with aspheric IOLs indicate that IOL tilt and decentration tend to be mirror symmetric between left and right eyes. The average tilt was 1.54 degrees and the average decentration was 0.21 mm. Simulated aberration patterns using custom models of the patients eyes, built using anatomical data of the anterior cornea and foveal position, the IOL geometry and the measured IOL tilt and decentration predict the experimental wave aberrations measured using laser ray tracing aberrometry on the same eyes. This reveals a relatively minor contribution of IOL tilt and decentration on the higher-order aberrations of the normal pseudophakic eye.

Molecular Systematics of the Genus Holothuria in the Mediterranean and Northeastern Atlantic and a Molecular Clock for the Diversification of the Holothuriidae (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea)

Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20813189

This work investigates the systematics of the genus Holothuria in the Mediterranean Sea and Northeastern Atlantic in the light of a wider molecular phylogenetic hypothesis of Holothuriidae, and it also provides a time-scale for the family diversification using mitochondrial markers and the molecular clock hypothesis. The subgenera Holothuria and Roweothuria are retrieved as paraphyletic. At least four separate lineages, with quite different time frameworks were identified. There are at least three species with an apparent long evolutionary history, H. forskali, H. sanctori and H. impatiens and six species belonging to Holothuria, Roweothuria and Vaneyothuria, which have diverged relatively recently.

CXCR2 Mediates NADPH Oxidase-independent Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation in Cystic Fibrosis Airway Inflammation

Nature Medicine. Sep, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20818377

Upon activation, neutrophils release DNA fibers decorated with antimicrobial proteins, forming neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Although NETs are bactericidal and contribute to innate host defense, excessive NET formation has been linked to the pathogenesis of autoinflammatory diseases. However, the mechanisms regulating NET formation, particularly during chronic inflammation, are poorly understood. Here we show that the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) CXCR2 mediates NET formation. Downstream analyses showed that CXCR2-mediated NET formation was independent of NADPH oxidase and involved Src family kinases. We show the pathophysiological relevance of this mechanism in cystic fibrosis lung disease, characterized by chronic neutrophilic inflammation. We found abundant NETs in airway fluids of individuals with cystic fibrosis and mouse cystic fibrosis lung disease, and NET amounts correlated with impaired obstructive lung function. Pulmonary blockade of CXCR2 by intra-airway delivery of small-molecule antagonists inhibited NET formation and improved lung function in vivo without affecting neutrophil recruitment, proteolytic activity or antibacterial host defense. These studies establish CXCR2 as a receptor mediating NADPH oxidase-independent NET formation and provide evidence that this GPCR pathway is operative and druggable in cystic fibrosis lung disease.

Selective Peracetic Acid Determination in the Presence of Hydrogen Peroxide Using a Label Free Enzymatic Method Based on Catalase

Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20824427

Peracetic acid (PAA) is selectively determined in the presence of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) by using the self-indicating UV-Vis molecular absorption properties of catalase. The PAA reacts with the protein giving an intermediate (Cat-I) which is reduced back by the amino acid core surrounding the heme group. Since the original form of the enzyme and the Cat-I have different UV-Vis absorption properties, the absorbance changes can be used for PAA determination. The H(2)O(2)/catalase reaction is extremely fast so that neither Cat-I compound nor kinetic interferences are observed. The method permits PAA determination in the 5 × 10(-7) to 1.5 × 10(-5) M range, the reproducibility being between 1% and 10%. Using this method, PAA has been successfully determined in water samples treated with commercial PAA/H(2)O(2) biocides. A theoretical study has also been carried out for obtaining a mathematical model able to analytically describe the process.

Clinical Presentation and Prognosis of the 2009 H1N1 Influenza A Infection in HIV-1-infected Patients: a Spanish Multicenter Study

AIDS (London, England). Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20827165

The aim of the study was to describe the clinical presentation and prognosis in HIV-1-infected patients with hospital admission and pandemic influenza A 2009 (H1N1) confirmed, and compare this data with those of a general population.

What's in the Pool? A Comprehensive Identification of Disinfection By-products and Assessment of Mutagenicity of Chlorinated and Brominated Swimming Pool Water

Environmental Health Perspectives. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20833605

Swimming pool disinfectants and disinfection by-products (DBPs) have been linked to human health effects, including asthma and bladder cancer, but no studies have provided a comprehensive identification of DBPs in the water and related that to mutagenicity.

Genotoxic Effects in Swimmers Exposed to Disinfection By-products in Indoor Swimming Pools

Environmental Health Perspectives. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20833606

Exposure to disinfection by-products (DBPs) in drinking water has been associated with cancer risk. A recent study (Villanueva et al. 2007; Am J Epidemiol 165:148-156) found an increased bladder cancer risk among subjects attending swimming pools relative to those not attending.

Short-term Changes in Respiratory Biomarkers After Swimming in a Chlorinated Pool

Environmental Health Perspectives. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20833607

Swimming in chlorinated pools involves exposure to disinfection by-products (DBPs) and has been associated with impaired respiratory health.

Gastric Wall Abscess--an Uncommon Condition Treated by an Alternative Form

Clinics (São Paulo, Brazil). Jun, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20835563

Host Adaptive Immunity Deficiency in Severe Pandemic Influenza

Critical Care (London, England). 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20840779

Pandemic A/H1N1/2009 influenza causes severe lower respiratory complications in rare cases. The association between host immune responses and clinical outcome in severe cases is unknown.

[Assessment of the Need of Blood Tests in Adolescents with Acute Alcohol Intoxication in an Emergency Department]

Anales De Pediatría (Barcelona, Spain : 2003). Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20869927

Accident Rates for Drug-dependent Patients in Treatment for Substance Dependence: a Pilot Trial

Traffic Injury Prevention. Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20872300

To analyze accident rates among drug-dependent patients before and after treatment for substance dependence.

Successful Treatment of Vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus Aureus Pacemaker Lead Infective Endocarditis with Telavancin

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy. Dec, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20876369

Emerging infections caused by vancomycin-intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA) isolates are more likely to be associated with treatment failures than infections caused by other types of S. aureus. We present a case of pacemaker lead infective endocarditis caused by a non-daptomycin-susceptible strain of VISA. After 8 weeks of parenteral telavancin therapy, the patient achieved microbiological and clinical cure.

Ocular Wavefront Aberrations in the Common Marmoset Callithrix Jacchus: Effects of Age and Refractive Error

Vision Research. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20800078

The common marmoset, Callithrix jacchus, is a primate model for emmetropization studies. The refractive development of the marmoset eye depends on visual experience, so knowledge of the optical quality of the eye is valuable. We report on the wavefront aberrations of the marmoset eye, measured with a clinical Hartmann-Shack aberrometer (COAS, AMO Wavefront Sciences). Aberrations were measured on both eyes of 23 marmosets whose ages ranged from 18 to 452 days. Twenty-one of the subjects were members of studies of emmetropization and accommodation, and two were untreated normal subjects. Eleven of the 21 experimental subjects had worn monocular diffusers and 10 had worn binocular spectacle lenses of equal power. Monocular deprivation or lens rearing began at about 45 days of age and ended at about 108 days of age. All refractions and aberration measures were performed while the eyes were cyclopleged; most aberration measures were made while subjects were awake, but some control measurements were performed under anesthesia. Wavefront error was expressed as a seventh-order Zernike polynomial expansion, using the Optical Society of America's naming convention. Aberrations in young marmosets decreased up to about 100 days of age, after which the higher-order RMS aberration leveled off to about 0.10 μm over a 3 mm diameter pupil. Higher-order aberrations were 1.8 times greater when the subjects were under general anesthesia than when they were awake. Young marmoset eyes were characterized by negative spherical aberration. Form-deprived eyes of the monocular deprivation animals had greater wavefront aberrations than their fellow untreated eyes, particularly for asymmetric aberrations in the odd-numbered Zernike orders. Both lens-treated and form-deprived eyes showed similar significant increases in Z3(-3) trefoil aberration, suggesting the increase in trefoil may be related to factors that do not involve visual feedback.

A Transcriptomic Approach Highlights Induction of Secondary Metabolism in Citrus Fruit in Response to Penicillium Digitatum Infection

BMC Plant Biology. 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20807411

Postharvest losses of citrus fruit due to green mold decay, caused by the fungus Penicillium digitaum, have a considerable economic impact. However, little is known about the molecular processes underlying the response of citrus fruit to P. digitatum.

Genetic Damage in Chronic Renal Failure Patients is Associated with the Glomerular Filtration Rate Index

Mutagenesis. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20884684

Chronic renal failure (CRF) patients are considered to present genomic instability and, as a consequence, elevated levels of genetic damage. An open question is whether this damage is related to the stage of the pathology. To determine the background levels of genetic damage, a large population of 258 Caucasian adults (201 CRF patients and 57 controls) was analysed using the micronucleus (MN) assay. The frequency of MN in CRF patients was significantly higher than in controls and correlated with the progression of the disease, according to the glomerular filtration rate. In addition, a significant association was observed between genetic damage and serum creatinine levels. Genetic damage, measured as frequency of MN, increases when renal function decreases. The fact that an increased level of MN is already observed in patients' Stage 2 seems to indicate a genetic predisposition on these patients. Nevertheless, part of the observed damage can be attributed to the uraemic state itself.

Fever in a Soldier Returned from Afghanistan

Journal of Travel Medicine. Sep-Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20920058

We present a case of Plasmodium vivax infection in a soldier, 4 months after returning from Afghanistan. Primary care physicians should be reminded of the possible delay in presentation of P. vivax when evaluating fever and the importance of terminal prophylaxis with primaquine to prevent relapse following return from malarious regions.

The Effect of MAPT H1 and APOE ε4 on Transition from Mild Cognitive Impairment to Dementia

Journal of Alzheimer's Disease : JAD. 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20930301

Microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) and apolipoprotein E (APOE) are involved in the pathogenic mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We prospectively followed three longitudinal independent samples (total n=319) with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and analyzed whether MAPT H1/H2 haplotypes and APOE ε4 polymorphisms accelerated the rate of progression from MCI to dementia. At the end of the study, 172 subjects remained cognitively stable, whereas 147 progressed to dementia. APOE ε4 and MAPT H1/H1 were independently associated with an increased rate of progression to dementia in the combined sample. Cox regression models of the combined MCI sample showed that MAPT H1/H1 carriers had an increased rate of progression to dementia compared with non carriers (Hazard Ratio =1.45; 95% CI=1.04-2.02; p=0.028) and time-to-progression was shortened by 1.37 years. APOE ε4 allele also accelerated progression to dementia (Hazard Ratio=1.47; 95% CI= 1.06-2.04; p=0.020) and reduced the time-to-progression by 0.87 years. Additionally, MAPT H1/H1 genotype and APOE ε4 allele had an additive effect in progression to dementia, increasing progression rate to dementia (Hazard Ratio=2.24, 95% CI =1.40-3.58; p=0.001) and shortening time-to-progression to dementia by 2.92 years. Similar results were obtained when only considering progression to AD-type dementia. Our results suggest that both MAPT H1/H1 genotype and APOE ε4 allele lead to a more rapid progression to dementia among MCI subjects, probably mediating an increased rate of amyloid-β and tau brain deposition.

Three-dimensional Reconstruction of the Crystalline Lens Gradient Index Distribution from OCT Imaging

Optics Express. Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20941090

We present an optimization method to retrieve the gradient index (GRIN) distribution of the in-vitro crystalline lens from optical path difference data extracted from OCT images. Three-dimensional OCT images of the crystalline lens are obtained in two orientations (with the anterior surface up and posterior surface up), allowing to obtain the lens geometry. The GRIN reconstruction method is based on a genetic algorithm that searches for the parameters of a 4-variable GRIN model that best fits the distorted posterior surface of the lens. Computer simulations showed that, for noise of 5 μm in the surface elevations, the GRIN is recovered with an accuracy of 0.003 and 0.010 in the refractive indices of the nucleus and surface of the lens, respectively. The method was applied to retrieve three-dimensionally the GRIN of a porcine crystalline lens in vitro. We found a refractive index ranging from 1.362 in the surface to 1.443 in the nucleus of the lens, an axial exponential decay of the GRIN profile of 2.62 and a meridional exponential decay ranging from 3.56 to 5.18. The effect of GRIN on the aberrations of the lens also studied. The estimated spherical aberration of the measured porcine lens was 2.87 μm assuming a homogenous equivalent refractive index, and the presence of GRIN shifted the spherical aberration toward negative values (-0.97 μm), for a 6-mm pupil.

Selection and Viral Load Kinetics of an Oseltamivir-resistant Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) Virus in an Immunocompromised Patient During Treatment with Neuraminidase Inhibitors

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20955912

Prolonged viral excretion in immunocompromised hosts leads to long oseltamivir treatment and to the subsequent development of oseltamivir-resistant pandemic influenza virus selection. We report the selection and nasopharyngeal shedding kinetics of an oseltamivir-resistant strain in a hospitalized immunocompromised patient with prolonged influenza illness. Viral load quantification and genotyping methods were performed from 7 serial nasopharyngeal samples. Before initial oseltamivir treatment, the viral load was 5.78 log(10) copies/mL of sample and only wild-type virus population was detected. The nasopharyngeal viral load remained above the detection limit although there was a second course of oseltamivir treatment. Twelve days after the onset of symptoms, an oseltamivir-resistant strain was selected. After 12 days of inhaled zanamivir treatment, the patient was discharged asymptomatic. The study emphasizes the importance of viral load quantification and surveillance of emergence of resistant strains prospectively because the information provided has important implications in the clinical management of the patient.

Enzyme-responsive Intracellular Controlled Release Using Nanometric Silica Mesoporous Supports Capped with "saccharides"

ACS Nano. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20958020

The synthesis of new capped silica mesoporous nanoparticles for on-command delivery applications is described. The gate-like functional hybrid systems consisted of nanoscopic MCM-41-based materials functionalized on the pore outlets with different "saccharide" derivatives and a dye contained in the mesopores. A series of hydrolyzed starch products as saccharides were selected. The mesoporous silica nanoparticles S1, S2, and S3 containing the grafted starch derivatives Glucidex 47, Gludicex 39, and Glucidex 29 were synthesized. Additionally, for comparative purposes solid S4 containing lactose was prepared. Delivery studies in pure water in the presence of pancreatin or β-d-galactosidase were carried out for S1-S3 and S4, respectively. S1, S2, and especially S3 showed very low release in the absence of enzyme, but displayed cargo delivery in the presence of the corresponding enzyme. Moreover, nanoparticles of S1 were used to study the controlled release of the dye in intracellular media. Cell viability assays using HeLa and LLC-PK1 cells indicated that S1 nanoparticles were devoid of unspecific cell toxicity. The endocytosis process for S1 nanoparticle internalization in HeLa cells was confirmed, and the anchored starch was degraded by the lysosomal enzymes. Furthermore, a new mesoporous silica nanoparticle functionalized with Glucidex 47 and loaded with a cytotoxic, S1-DOX, was developed. The cell viability with S1-DOX decreased due to the internalization of the nanoparticle, enzyme-dependent opening of the saccharide molecular gate and the consequent release of the cytotoxic agent. As far as the authors know, this is the first example of enzyme-induced in-cell delivery using capped silica mesoporous nanoparticles.

Epidemiology of Pneumonia in Kidney Transplantation

Transplantation Proceedings. Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20970576

Pneumonia remains an important cause of morbidity among solid organ transplant recipients.

Adaptation to Astigmatic Blur

Journal of Vision. 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21047754

Adapting to blurred or sharpened images alters the perceived focus of subsequently viewed images. We examined whether these adaptation effects could arise from actual sphero-cylindrical refractive errors, by testing aftereffects in images simulating second-order astigmatism. Image blur was varied from negative (vertical) through isotropic to positive (horizontal) astigmatism while maintaining constant blur strength. A 2AFC staircase was used to estimate the stimulus that appeared isotropically blurred before or after adapting to images with astigmatism. Adaptation to horizontal blur caused isotropically blurred images to appear vertically biased and vice versa, shifting the perceived isotropic point toward the adapting level. Aftereffects were similar for different types of images and showed partial selectivity so that strongest effects generally occurred when testing and adapting images were the same. Further experiments explored whether the adaptation depended more strongly on the blurring or "fuzziness" in the images vs. the apparent "figural" changes introduced by the blur, by comparing how the aftereffects transfer across changes in size or orientation. Our results suggest that strong selective adaptation can occur for different lower order aberrations of the eye and that these may be at least partly driven by the apparent figural changes that blurring introduces into the retinal image.

A Genomic Approach Highlights Common and Diverse Effects and Determinants of Susceptibility on the Yeast Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Exposed to Distinct Antimicrobial Peptides

BMC Microbiology. 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21078184

The mechanism of action of antimicrobial peptides (AMP) was initially correlated with peptide membrane permeation properties. However, recent evidences indicate that action of a number of AMP is more complex and involves specific interactions at cell envelopes or with intracellular targets. In this study, a genomic approach was undertaken on the model yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to characterize the antifungal effect of two unrelated AMP.

Spectral Analysis of Single-channel Airflow and Oxygen Saturation Recordings in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Detection

Conference Proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Conference. 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21096316

This study investigated the usefulness of the very low spectral content of single-channel airflow recordings to help in the diagnosis of the obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome. Additionally, we evaluated whether airflow frequency components in the 0.01 - 0.10 Hz band are linked with desaturations in blood oxygen saturation (SaO(2)) recordings due to apnea events. The relationship between changes in airflow and SaO(2) was analyzed by means of the magnitude squared coherence (MSC) function. Power spectral density (PSD) was used to obtain the power spectrum of single airflow and SaO(2) signals. Peak amplitude (PA) and relative power (P(R)) were used to parameterize the power spectrum in the very low frequency band. 148 subjects suspected of suffering from OSA were studied. Significant differences (p-value ≪ 0.01) between OSA positive and OSA negative subjects were obtained from PSD and MSC features. We found a power increase in the very low frequency band of single-channel airflow linked with the periodic desaturations of OSA. Diagnostic sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of 84.0%, 85.4% and 84.5%, respectively, were reached with the peak amplitude of the airflow PSD. Thus, spectral features from the very low frequency components of single-channel airflow recordings could provide useful information to help in OSA diagnosis.

Effects of HIV Protease Inhibitors on Progression of Monocrotaline- and Hypoxia-induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Rats

Circulation. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 20974998

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is among the complications of HIV infection. Combination antiretroviral therapy may influence the progression of HIV-related PH. Because Akt signaling is a potential molecular target of HIV protease inhibitors (HPIs), we hypothesized that these drugs altered monocrotaline- and hypoxia-induced PH in rats by downregulating the Akt pathway, thereby inhibiting pulmonary artery smooth muscle cell proliferation.

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Overexpression Positively Modulates the Characteristics of Periprosthetic Tissue of Polyurethane-coated Silicone Breast Implant in Rats

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Dec, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21124130

Capsular contracture is one of the most common complications associated with silicone breast implants. The surface of the implant is one of the factors often associated with the occurrence of capsular contracture. In this study, the authors evaluated the differences in morphologic and molecular characteristics of the capsule formed around polyurethane-coated versus textured-surface silicone implants in rats, mainly the modifications in angiogenesis and the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

TACT Glossary: Technology

La Clinica Terapeutica. 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21181088

The term technology is derived from the Greek words tékhne and lógos. Technique and technic(s) also come from tékhne. This Greek word and its Latin equivalent ars both belong to the same semantic field, referring primarily to a skill or practical process, a know-how and its products, be they objects or actions. Technology can, therefore, mean two things: i) either a scientific knowledge of tékhne or ii) a tékhne accompanied by science, that is, a know-how accompanied by a know-why. We shall normally understand technology to have this second meaning, as tékhne accompanied by or derived from science.

Quantification of Testosterone and Metabolites Released After Alkaline Treatment in Human Urine

Drug Testing and Analysis. Nov-Dec, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21204294

A rapid, accurate, and sensitive method based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for the quantification of the testosterone (T) fraction released under basic conditions and its metabolites 1,4-androstadien-3,17-dione (1,4-AD), 4,6-androstadien-3,17-dione (4,6-AD) and 4,6-androstadien-17β-ol-3-one (6-T) obtained in the same way has been developed and validated. Urine samples (5 ml) were alkalinized and the released analytes were extracted by liquid-liquid extraction. The chromatographic separation was performed in 8 min. MS/MS determination was performed under selected reaction monitoring mode using electrospray ionization in positive mode. The method was shown to be linear from 0.05 to 50 ng/ml for 1,4-AD, 6-T and T while for 4,6-AD the linearity from 0.5 to 500 ng/ml was demonstrated (r > 0.99). Limits of detection below 0.05 ng/ml were obtained for all analytes. Intra-assay precision and accuracies, evaluated at three concentrations levels (0.1, 1 and 20 ng/ml) were below 20%. The applicability of the analytical method was confirmed by analysis of several samples collected from healthy volunteers and samples collected after oral testosterone undecanoate administration. The analytical method was found to be able to quantify the metabolites either at the low concentrations levels present in the urine from untreated volunteers or at the high concentrations found after T administration. Short analysis time, simple sample preparation, and satisfactory quantitative parameters make this method potentially useful for anti-doping control purposes.

Coupling Nitrogen-vacancy Centers in Diamond to Superconducting Flux Qubits

Physical Review Letters. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21231275

We propose a method to achieve coherent coupling between nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond and superconducting (SC) flux qubits. The resulting coupling can be used to create a coherent interaction between the spin states of distant NV centers mediated by the flux qubit. Furthermore, the magnetic coupling can be used to achieve a coherent transfer of quantum information between the flux qubit and an ensemble of NV centers. This enables a long-term memory for a SC quantum processor and possibly an interface between SC qubits and light.

Quasistationary States and the Range of Pair Interactions

Physical Review Letters. Nov, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21231280

"Quasistationary" states are approximately time independent out of equilibrium states which have been observed in a variety of systems of particles interacting by long-range interactions. We investigate here the conditions of their occurrence for a generic pair interaction V(r→∞)~1/r(γ) with γ>0, in d>1 dimensions. We generalize analytic calculations known for gravity in d=3 to determine the scaling parametric dependences of their relaxation rates due to two-body collisions, and report extensive numerical simulations testing their validity. Our results lead to the conclusion that, for γd-1 it is conditioned on the short distance properties of the interaction, requiring the presence of a sufficiently large soft core in the interaction potential.

Observation of the Bloch-Siegert Shift in a Qubit-oscillator System in the Ultrastrong Coupling Regime

Physical Review Letters. Dec, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21231496

We measure the dispersive energy-level shift of an LC resonator magnetically coupled to a superconducting qubit, which clearly shows that our system operates in the ultrastrong coupling regime. The large mutual kinetic inductance provides a coupling energy of ≈ 0.82 GHz, requiring the addition of counter-rotating-wave terms in the description of the Jaynes-Cummings model. We find a 50 MHz Bloch-Siegert shift when the qubit is in its symmetry point, fully consistent with our analytical model.

Consensus Statements from the Workshop "Probiotics and Health: Scientific Evidence"

Nutrición Hospitalaria : Organo Oficial De La Sociedad Española De Nutrición Parenteral Y Enteral. Sep-Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21336423

This report shows the level of scientific consensus on definition, characteristics and health benefits of probiotics. The content of the report has derived from the scientific meeting: Workshop on Probiotics and Health. Scientific evidence, that congregated several Spanish experts, including gastroenterologists, microbiologists, nutritionists, immunologists and food technologists, among others, who have agreed with the statements shown in this document. Each statement has been sustained with the most relevant scientific aspects that were discussed during the Workshop and the following evaluation of the report by all experts who approved and signed it.

Physical Performance of Biodegradable Films Intended for Antimicrobial Food Packaging

Journal of Food Science. Oct, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21535488

Antimicrobial films were prepared by including enterocins to alginate, polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH), and zein films. The physical performance of the films was assessed by measuring color, microstructure (SEM), water vapor permeability (WVP), and tensile properties. All studied biopolymers showed poor WVP and limited tensile properties. PVOH showed the best performance exhibiting the lowest WVP values, higher tensile properties, and flexibility among studied biopolymers. SEM of antimicrobial films showed increased presence of voids and pores as a consequence of enterocin addition. However, changes in microstructure did not disturb WVP of films. Moreover, enterocin-containing films showed slight improvement compared to control films. Addition of enterocins to PVOH films had a plasticizing effect, by reducing its tensile strength and increasing the strain at break. The presence of enterocins had an important effect on tensile properties of zein films by significantly reducing its brittleness. Addition of enterocins, thus, proved not to disturb the physical performance of studied biopolymers. Development of new antimicrobial biodegradable packaging materials may contribute to improving food safety while reducing environmental impact derived from packaging waste. Practical Application: Development of new antimicrobial biodegradable packaging materials may contribute to improving food safety while reducing environmental impact derived from packaging waste.

Distortions of the Posterior Surface in Optical Coherence Tomography Images of the Isolated Crystalline Lens: Effect of the Lens Index Gradient

Biomedical Optics Express. 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21258553

We quantify the posterior surface distortions in optical coherence tomography (OCT) images of isolated crystalline lenses. The posterior radius of curvature and asphericity obtained from OCT images acquired with the beam incident first on the anterior, and then the posterior, surface were compared. The results were compared with predictions of a ray-tracing model which includes the index gradient. The results show that the error in the radius of curvature is within the measurement reproducibility and that it can be corrected by assuming a uniform refractive index. However, accurate asphericity values require a correction algorithm that takes into account the gradient.

Quantification of Testosterone and Metabolites Released After Alkaline Treatment in Human Urine

Drug Testing and Analysis. Dec, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21154689

A rapid, accurate, and sensitive method based on liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for the quantification of the testosterone (T) fraction released under basic conditions and its metabolites 1,4-androstadien-3,17-dione (1,4-AD), 4,6-androstadien-3,17-dione (4,6-AD) and 4,6-androstadien-17β-ol-3-one (6-T) obtained in the same way has been developed and validated. Urine samples (5 ml) were alkalinized and the released analytes were extracted by liquid-liquid extraction. The chromatographic separation was performed in 8 min. MS/MS determination was performed under selected reaction monitoring mode using electrospray ionization in positive mode. The method was shown to be linear from 0.05 to 50 ng/ml for 1,4-AD, 6-T and T while for 4,6-AD the linearity from 0.5 to 500 ng/ml was demonstrated (r > 0.99). Limits of detection below 0.05 ng/ml were obtained for all analytes. Intra-assay precision and accuracies, evaluated at three concentrations levels (0.1, 1 and 20 ng/ml) were below 20%. The applicability of the analytical method was confirmed by analysis of several samples collected from healthy volunteers and samples collected after oral testosterone undecanoate administration. The analytical method was found to be able to quantify the metabolites either at the low concentrations levels present in the urine from untreated volunteers or at the high concentrations found after T administration. Short analysis time, simple sample preparation, and satisfactory quantitative parameters make this method potentially useful for anti-doping control purposes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

[Human and Animal Fascioliasis in Peru: Impact in the Economy of Endemic Zones]

Revista Peruana De Medicina Experimental Y Salud Pública. Oct-Dec, 2010  |  Pubmed ID: 21308203

Fasciola hepatica is the causative agent of fasciolosis in Peru; the disease is an important public health problem by the high prevalence of the human infection affecting mainly children and a major veterinary problem by the high rates of infected livestock. The human disease is endemic in the Sierra and the Coast but sporadic in the Amazonia, and reported in 18 Departments, while the animal infection in 21 of 24 Departments of Peru. Transmission occurs in Andean rural populations engaged in agriculture, but recently an increasing number of people became infected in the cities. The epidemiological situation in Peru includes i) Departments with non-autochtonous cases, where infection occurs by consumption of contaminated vegetables brought from endemic areas or infection is acquired by visit to endemic areas; ii) Departments with hypoendemic and mesoendemic villages, where transmission occurs by ingest of contaminated vegetables and prevalence ≤10%; and iii) Departments with hyper-endemic villages with human prevalence >10 %, with an intense transmission by consumption of contaminated vegetables. The disease affects bovine, sheep, goat, swine, equine, South American camelids, rabbits and guinea pigs. The negative impact of fasciolosis in the livestock economy is not lesser than US$ 50 million per year, estimation based on the prevalence and the number of condemned livers in the abattoirs. It is difficult to estimate the economic impact of this infection in the human health due to its status of neglected disease, but fasciolosis is hyper-endemic in the poorest Andean areas of Peru where the situation has to be recognized as a public health emergency.

Update on Strongyloidiasis in the Immunocompromised Host

Current Infectious Disease Reports. Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21308453

Immunocompromised persons are the most vulnerable population at risk for developing life-threatening clinical syndromes associated with strongyloidiasis, such as hyperinfection syndrome (HS) or dissemination. This review focuses on describing Strongyloides infection in the immunocompromised host, including immune response against this infection, analyzing the cases with HS published during the past 4 years in the United States, and describing the most sensitive diagnostic tools and the most effective treatment for each clinical syndrome. Strongyloidiasis is becoming an important parasitic disease in the United States, especially in the immunocompromised immigrant population. Because the transplant population is particularly at risk for developing HS, both recipients and donors should be screened for Strongyloides. Clinicians should also be aware that the development of HS can follow unexpectedly a few days after appropriate anthelminthic therapy. Highly sensitive screening tests are still not available in the major tertiary medical centers. Parenteral ivermectin has been used in some severe cases. Further therapy developments and improving diagnostic tools are warranted.

Molecular Diagnosis of Sentinel Lymph Nodes for Breast Cancer: One Step Ahead for Standardization

Diagnostic Molecular Pathology : the American Journal of Surgical Pathology, Part B. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21326035

Sentinel node (SN) pathologic analysis shows great limitations related to reproducibility and challenges pathologists with respect to methodology and standardization. Recently, a new, highly specific and sensitive molecular procedure has been developed, based on cytokeratin 19 messenger RNA amplification, which allows for fast and effective intraoperative evaluation of the SN. Our aim in this study was to compare 2 arms for intraoperative evaluation: one study arm with 478 cases in which an exhaustive histopathologic procedure was performed and the other study arm with 211 cases that were analyzed using the new molecular method. Our results indicate that both methods similarly distinguish between benign and malignant lymph nodes but the type of metastasis is better defined and stratified by the molecular method. We conclude that the molecular method should be recommended for SN diagnosis because besides its high sensitivity, specificity, and operating room adequacy, it may allow for standardization for SN evaluation.

Micronuclei and Pesticide Exposure

Mutagenesis. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21164178

Micronucleus (MN) is a biomarker widely used in biomonitoring studies carried out to determine the genetic risk associated to pesticide exposure. Many in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as epidemiological approaches, have demonstrated the ability of certain chemical pesticides to produce genetic effects including cancer and other chronic pathologies in humans; thus, biomonitoring studies have been carried out to characterise the genetic risk associated to pesticide exposure. It must be noted that 'pesticide exposure' is a broad term covering complex mixtures of chemicals and many variables that can reduce or potentiate their risk. In addition, there are large differences in pesticides used in the different parts of the world. Although pesticides constitute a wide group of environmental pollutants, the main focus on their risk has been addressed to people using pesticides in their working places, at the chemical industry or in the crop fields. Here, we present a brief review of biomonitoring studies carried out in people occupationally exposed to pesticides and that use MN in lymphocytes or buccal cells as a target to determine the induction of genotoxic damage. Thus, people working in the chemical industry producing pesticides, people spraying pesticides and people dedicated to floriculture or agricultural works in general are the subject of specific sections. MN is a valuable genotoxic end point when clear exposure conditions exist like in pesticide production workers; nevertheless, better study designs are needed to overcome the uncertainty in exposure, genetic susceptibility and statistical power in the studies of sprayers and floriculture or agricultural workers.

Prevalence of Subclinical Enthesopathy in Patients with Spondyloarthropathy: an Ultrasound Study

Journal of Clinical Rheumatology : Practical Reports on Rheumatic & Musculoskeletal Diseases. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21169854

Ultrasound has demonstrated to be a highly sensitive tool in the evaluation of entheses in spondyloarthropathy (SpA) patients and improves the ability of clinical examination to detect enthesopathy.

Associations of Physical Activity and Fitness with Adipocytokines in Adolescents: The AFINOS Study

Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases : NMCD. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21277178

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Adipocytokines may have a key role in the development of atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes. The purpose of this study was to examine the independent and joint associations of physical activity (PA), cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and muscular fitness (MF) with adiponectin and leptin in adolescents. METHODS AND RESULTS: A sample of 198 adolescents (96 girls), aged 13-17-year, was selected. Participants completed anthropometric measurements (height, weight, and waist circumference) and percentage of body fat (%BF) was estimated by bioelectrical impedance. PA was measured by accelerometer for 7-day. The 20-m shuttle-run test was used to assess CRF and two MF tests (handgrip strength and standing broad jump) were used to create an MF score. A cluster score of health status (0-3 risks) was created. Serum adiponectin and plasma leptin were also determined. Regression analyses controlling for age, sex, pubertal status and waist circumference showed that PA was not significantly associated with adiponectin and vigorous PA showed a significant inverse association with leptin. Both CRF and MF were significantly and inversely associated with adiponectin and leptin. Further analyses revealed that the 'healthy' group (0 risks) had significantly lower adiponectin and leptin than 'medium-healthy' (1 risk) and 'unhealthy' (2-3 risks) status groups. CONCLUSIONS: PA, CRF and MF are inversely and jointly associated with adiponectin and leptin concentrations in adolescents.

Behavioural Correlates of Active Commuting to School in Spanish Adolescents: the AFINOS (Physical Activity As a Preventive Measure Against Overweight, Obesity, Infections, Allergies, and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Adolescents) Study

Public Health Nutrition. Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21281540

To examine the associations between lifestyle factors and active commuting to school in Spanish adolescents.

Specific Berenil-DNA Interactions: an Approach for Separation of Plasmid Isoforms by Pseudo-affinity Chromatography

Analytical Biochemistry. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21284930

Small molecules, like some antibiotics and anticancer agents that bind DNA with high specificity, can represent a relevant alternative as ligands in affinity processes for plasmid DNA (pDNA) purification. In the current study, pDNA binding affinities of berberine, berenil, kanamycin, and neomycin were evaluated by a competitive displacement assay with ethidium bromide using a fluorimetric titration technique. The binding between pDNA and ethidium bromide was tested in different buffer conditions, varying the type and the salt concentration, and was performed in both the absence and presence of the studied compounds. The results showed that the minor groove binder berenil has the higher pDNA binding constant. Chromatographic experiments using a derivatized column with berenil as ligand showed a total retention of pDNA using 1.3M ammonium sulfate in eluent buffer. A selective separation of supercoiled and open circular isoforms was achieved by further decreasing the salt concentration to 0.6M and then to 0M. These results suggest a promising application of berenil as ligand for specific purification of pDNA supercoiled isoform by pseudo-affinity chromatography.

Association Between Excessive Body Fat and Eating-disorder Risk in Adolescents: the AFINOS Study

Medicina Clínica. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21296369

Overweight and obesity, together with eating disorders, are important public health concerns in adolescence. The aim of this study was to assess the association between excessive body fat and the risk of eating disorders.

Myopia: Why Study the Mechanisms of Myopia? Novel Approaches to Risk Factors Signalling Eye Growth- How Could Basic Biology Be Translated into Clinical Insights? Where Are Genetic and Proteomic Approaches Leading? How Does Visual Function Contribute to and Interact with Ametropia? Does Eye Shape Matter? Why Ametropia at All?

Optometry and Vision Science : Official Publication of the American Academy of Optometry. Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21297512

On July 26-29, 2010 the 13th International Myopia Conference was held in Tübingen, Germany and included 17 separate symposia, each with 3-5 presentations. Here, in a single paper, the chairs of those Symposia describe the scientific advances noted at the conference and include the full abstracts of the individual myopia papers presented in each symposium along with the authors and their institutions. The 17 Symposia covered 7 topics: Why Study the Mechanisms of Myopia?; Novel Approaches to Risk Factors; Signalling Eye Growth- How Could Basic Biology Be Translated into Clinical Insights?; Where Are Genetic and Proteomic Approaches Leading?; How Does Visual Function Contribute to and Interact with Ametropia?; Does Eye Shape Matter?; Why Ametropia at All?

Visual Acuity Under Combined Astigmatism and Coma: Optical and Neural Adaptation Effects

Journal of Vision. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21304171

Previous studies suggest that certain combinations of coma and astigmatism improve optical quality over astigmatism alone. We tested these theoretical predictions on 20 patients. Visual acuity (VA) was measured under best spherical correction for different conditions: low- and higher order aberrations corrected, in the presence of 0.5 D of induced astigmatism, and adding different amounts of coma to 0.5 D of astigmatism. Measurements were performed for different relative angles between coma and astigmatism and for selected conditions, also through-focus. Adding coma (0.23 μm for 6-mm pupil) to astigmatism resulted in a clear increase of VA in 6 subjects, consistently with theoretical optical predictions, while VA decreased when coma was added to astigmatism in 7 subjects. In addition, in the presence of astigmatism only, VA decreased more than 10% with respect to all aberrations corrected in 13 subjects, while VA was practically insensitive to the addition of astigmatism in 4 subjects. The effects were related to the presence of natural astigmatism and whether this was habitually corrected or uncorrected. The fact that the expected performance occurs mainly in eyes with no natural astigmatism suggests relevant neural adaptation effects in eyes normally exposed to astigmatic blur.

Incidence and Lifetime Risk of Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease in a Southern European Population

Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica. Nov, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21848704

To calculate both the incidence rates and the lifetime risk (LTR) of dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Sensitive and Selective Chromogenic Sensing of Carbon Monoxide Via Reversible Axial CO Coordination in Binuclear Rhodium Complexes

Journal of the American Chemical Society. Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21863820

The study of probes for CO sensing of a family of binuclear rhodium(II) compounds of general formula [Rh(2){(XC(6)H(3))P(XC(6)H(4))}(n)(O(2)CR)(4-n)]·L(2) containing one or two metalated phosphines (in a head-to-tail arrangement) and different axial ligands has been conducted. Chloroform solutions of these complexes underwent rapid color change, from purple to yellow, when air samples containing CO were bubbled through them. The binuclear rhodium complexes were also adsorbed on silica and used as colorimetric probes for "naked eye" CO detection in the gas phase. When the gray-purple colored silica solids containing the rhodium probes were exposed to air containing increasing concentrations of CO, two colors were observed, in agreement with the formation of two different products. The results are consistent with an axial coordination of the CO molecule in one axial position (pink-orange) or in both (yellow). The crystal structure of 3·(CO) ([Rh(2){(C(6)H(4))P(C(6)H(5))(2)}(2)(O(2)CCF(3))(2)]·CO) was solved by single X-ray diffraction techniques. In all cases, the binuclear rhodium complexes studied showed a high selective response to CO with a remarkable low detection limit. For instance, compound 5·(CH(3)CO(2)H)(2) ([Rh(2){(m-CH(3)C(6)H(3))P(m-CH(3)C(6)H(4))(2)}(2)(O(2)CCH(3))(2)]·(CH(3)CO(2)H)(2)) is capable of detection of CO to the "naked eye" at concentrations as low as 0.2 ppm in air. Furthermore, the binding of CO in these rhodium complexes was found to be fully reversible, and release studies of carbon monoxide via thermogravimetric measurements have also been carried out. The importance of the silica support for the maintenance of the CO-displaced L ligands in the vicinity of the probes in a noninnocent manner has been also proved.

Direct Association Between Pharyngeal Viral Secretion and Host Cytokine Response in Severe Pandemic Influenza

BMC Infectious Diseases. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21880131

Severe disease caused by 2009 pandemic influenza A/H1N1virus is characterized by the presence of hypercytokinemia. The origin of the exacerbated cytokine response is unclear. As observed previously, uncontrolled influenza virus replication could strongly influence cytokine production. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between host cytokine responses and viral levels in pandemic influenza critically ill patients.

Clinical Relevance of Mixed Respiratory Viral Infections in Adults with Influenza A H1N1

The European Respiratory Journal : Official Journal of the European Society for Clinical Respiratory Physiology. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21885422

Telomere Dysfunction Causes Sustained Inflammation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21885626

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with chronic inflammation of unknown pathogenesis.

Ultraconfined Interlaced Plasmons

Physical Review Letters. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21902326

We describe a mesoscopic excitation in strongly coupled grids of metallic nanorods, resulting from the hybridization of weakly bounded plasmons. It is shown both theoretically and experimentally that the characteristic spatial scale of the interlaced plasmons is determined by geometrical features, rather than from the electrical length of the nanorods, and that due to their wide band nature, weak sensitivity to metallic absorption, and subwavelength mode sizes, such plasmons may have exciting applications in waveguiding in the nanoscale.

Consensus Statement on the Diagnosis, Management, and Treatment of Angioedema Mediated by Bradykinin. Part I. Classification, Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, Genetics, Clinical Symptoms, and Diagnosis

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology : Official Organ of the International Association of Asthmology (INTERASMA) and Sociedad Latinoamericana De Alergia E Inmunología. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21905496

There are no Spanish guidelines or consensus statement on bradykinin-induced angioedema.

Analyses of the Genotoxic and Mutagenic Potential of the Products Formed After the Biotransformation of the Azo Dye Disperse Red 1

Toxicology in Vitro : an International Journal Published in Association with BIBRA. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21907275

Azo dyes constitute the largest class of synthetic dyes. Following oral exposure, these dyes can be reduced to aromatic amines by the intestinal microflora or liver enzymes. This work identified the products formed after oxidation and reduction of the dye Disperse Red 1, simulating hepatic biotransformation and evaluated the mutagenic potential of the resultant solution. Controlled potential electrolysis was carried out on dye solution using a Potentiostat/Galvanostat. HPLC-DAD and GC/MS were used to determine the products generated after the oxidation/reduction process. The Salmonella/microsome assay with the strains TA98 and YG1041 without S9, and the mouse lymphoma assay (MLA) using the thymidine kinase (Tk) gene, were used to evaluate the mutagenicity of the products formed. Sulfate 2-[(4-aminophenyl)ethylamino]-ethanol monohydrate, nitrobenzene, 4-nitro-benzamine and 2-(ethylphenylamino)-ethanol were detected. This dye has already being assigned as mutagenic in different cell system. In addition, after the oxidation/reduction process the dye still had mutagenic activity for the Salmonella/microsome assay. Nevertheless, both the original dye Disperse Red 1 and its treated solutions showed negative results in the MLA. The present results suggest that the ingestion of water and food contaminated with this dye may represent human and environmental health problem, due to the generation of harmful compounds after biotransformation.

An UPLC-MS/MS Method for the Determination of Valproic Acid in Blood of a Fatal Intoxication Case

Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine. Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21907937

Valproic acid (VPA) has been used as an anticonvulsant for the treatment of epilepsy. The authors present a fatal case involving a 45-year-old female, found dead lying in bed with empty tablets of Diplexil(®) next to her. She was a chronic alcoholic and epileptic who had been under psychiatric treatment, having repeatedly demonstrated intent to commit suicide. A rapid method was developed and validated to determine VPA in blood by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) with electrospray ionization source in negative ion mode. The method involved sample treatment with phosphoric acid followed by solid-phase extraction. Chromatographic separation was achieved using an Acquity UPLC(®) BEH (2.1 × 50 mm id, 1.7 μm) column and a mobile phase containing ammonium acetate and acetonitrile, at a 0.5 mL/min flow rate. Detection and quantification of VPA was achieved using multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). The MS/MS transitions used for monitoring were m/z 143.1-143.1 for valproic acid and m/z 296.1-205.0 for hydrochlorothiazide used as an internal standard (IS). The limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.5 μg/mL and the method was linear in the concentration range of 0.5-100 μg/mL. The coefficients of variation obtained for accuracy and precision were less than 10% and the mean recovery was 95% for the three concentrations levels studied (5 μg/mL, 10 μg/mL and 50 μg/mL). Toxicological results showed high concentration of VPA (556 μg/mL) and therapeutic concentrations of tiapride, mirtazapine, oxazepam and nordiazepam. Blood sample analysis also revealed the presence of ethanol at a concentration of 1.34 g/L. A specific, selective and sensitive method for the determination of VPA in blood was developed and can be used in routine forensic investigation. Toxicological results led the pathologist to rule that death was due to an intoxication caused by the simultaneous ingestion of high VPA concentrations and alcohol, with a suicidal legal-medical etiology.

Infrared (810 Nm) Low-level Laser Therapy in Rat Achilles Tendinitis: a Consistent Alternative to Drugs

Photochemistry and Photobiology. Nov-Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21910734

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used and can reduce musculoskeletal pain in spite of the cost of adverse reactions like gastrointestinal ulcers or cardiovascular events. The current study investigates if a safer treatment such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) could reduce tendinitis inflammation, and whether a possible pathway could be through inhibition of either of the two-cyclooxygenase (COX) isoforms in inflammation. Wistar rats (six animals per group) were injected with saline (control) or collagenase in their Achilles tendons. Then, we treated them with three different doses of IR LLLT (810 nm; 100 mW; 10 s, 30 s and 60 s; 3.57 W cm(-2); 1 J, 3 J, 6 J) at the sites of the injections, or intramuscular diclofenac, a nonselective COX inhibitor/NSAID. We found that LLLT dose of 3 J significantly reduced inflammation through less COX-2-derived gene expression and PGE(2) production, and less edema formation compared to nonirradiated controls. Diclofenac controls exhibited significantly lower PGE(2) cytokine levels at 6 h than collagenase control, but COX isoform 1-derived gene expression and cytokine PGE(2) levels were not affected by treatments. As LLLT seems to act on inflammation through a selective inhibition of the COX-2 isoform in collagenase-induced tendinitis, LLLT may have potential to become a new and safer nondrug alternative to coxibs.

Bridging Therapy for Early Surgery in Patients on Dual Antiplatelet Therapy After Drug-eluting Stent Implantation

Netherlands Heart Journal : Monthly Journal of the Netherlands Society of Cardiology and the Netherlands Heart Foundation. Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21948020

To evaluate stent-related adverse cardiac events and bleeding complications within 30 days after surgical procedures in patients with recent drug-eluting stent (DES) implantation, in whom a bridging protocol was used.

Finely Tuned Temperature-controlled Cargo Release Using Paraffin-capped Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles

Angewandte Chemie (International Ed. in English). Nov, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21953879

Meta-analysis: Glutathione-S-transferase Allelic Variants Are Associated with Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics. Nov, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21967547

Only a minority of alcoholics develop alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and allelic variants within genes encoding glutathione-S-transferases (GST) have been associated with ALD vulnerability with controversial results.

Pharmacokinetics of Metformin in Girls Aged 9 Years

Clinical Pharmacokinetics. Nov, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21973270

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Metformin is a biguanide used in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. In girls with a low birth weight, and early-normal and rapidly progressive puberty, metformin therapy is capable of modifying this outcome, prolonging pubertal growth, increasing height gain, delaying the age at menarche towards normal and improving the endocrine-metabolic status of these girls. The pharmacokinetics of metformin have been studied in healthy adults and in patients with type 2 diabetes. The objective of this study was to study the pharmacokinetics of metformin in young, non-obese girls. Methods: The study population consisted of six girls with a combined history of low birth weight and early-normal onset of puberty. At the time of the study, these girls were aged 9 years and had been receiving metformin (850 mg/day at dinner time) for a mean duration of 8 months. Blood samples were obtained from the girls before metformin intake and for 12 hours thereafter. Serum metformin concentrations were assessed by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. The area under the serum concentration-time curve (AUC), maximum serum concentration (C(max)), time to reach the C(max) (t(max)), half-life (t(½)), volume of distribution (V(d)) and total clearance (CL) were calculated. RESULTS: Metformin concentration-time curves were similar in girls receiving similar metformin doses (range 21-29 mg/kg): in those girls, the mean AUC was 21 mg · h/L, with a C(max) of 3 mg/L, t(max) of 2.5 hours, t(½) of 4 hours, V(d) of 111 L and CL of 20 L/h. These values are comparable to those observed in adults. Conclusion: In girls aged 9 years, the pharmacokinetics of metformin were comparable to those in adults. Trial registration number (International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number Register): ISRCTN49334271.

Changes in Dynamics Upon Oligomerization Regulate Substrate Binding and Allostery in Amino Acid Kinase Family Members

PLoS Computational Biology. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21980279

Oligomerization is a functional requirement for many proteins. The interfacial interactions and the overall packing geometry of the individual monomers are viewed as important determinants of the thermodynamic stability and allosteric regulation of oligomers. The present study focuses on the role of the interfacial interactions and overall contact topology in the dynamic features acquired in the oligomeric state. To this aim, the collective dynamics of enzymes belonging to the amino acid kinase family both in dimeric and hexameric forms are examined by means of an elastic network model, and the softest collective motions (i.e., lowest frequency or global modes of motions) favored by the overall architecture are analyzed. Notably, the lowest-frequency modes accessible to the individual subunits in the absence of multimerization are conserved to a large extent in the oligomer, suggesting that the oligomer takes advantage of the intrinsic dynamics of the individual monomers. At the same time, oligomerization stiffens the interfacial regions of the monomers and confers new cooperative modes that exploit the rigid-body translational and rotational degrees of freedom of the intact monomers. The present study sheds light on the mechanism of cooperative inhibition of hexameric N-acetyl-L-glutamate kinase by arginine and on the allosteric regulation of UMP kinases. It also highlights the significance of the particular quaternary design in selectively determining the oligomer dynamics congruent with required ligand-binding and allosteric activities.

Highly Selective and Sensitive Chromo-fluorogenic Detection of the Tetryl Explosive Using Functional Silica Nanoparticles

Chemical Communications (Cambridge, England). Nov, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21983872

Silica nanoparticles containing polyamines and thiol groups have been used as probes for the selective detection of Tetryl.

Contrast Sensitivity Benefit of Adaptive Optics Correction of Ocular Aberrations

Journal of Vision. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21985781

While correcting the aberrations of the eye produces large increases in retinal image contrast, the corresponding improvement factors in the contrast sensitivity function have been little explored and results are controversial. We measured the CSF of 4 subjects with and without correcting monochromatic aberrations. Monochromatic CSF measurements were performed at four orientations (0, 45, 90, and 135 deg) and at six spatial frequencies (2-30 c/deg). In two subjects, the CSF was also measured in polychromatic light. The MTF increased on average by 8 times and meridional changes in improvement were associated to individual meridional changes in the natural MTF. CSF increased on average by 1.35 times (only for the mid- and high spatial frequencies) and was lower (0.93 times) for polychromatic light. Under natural aberrations, the horizontal and vertical CSFs tended to be higher than the oblique CSFs, but the meridional differences in the CSF were partially reduced when the aberrations were corrected. The consistently lower benefit in the CSF than in the MTF of correcting aberrations suggests a significant role for the neural transfer function in the limit of contrast perception. Polychromatic aberrations play an additional role in degrading contrast, particularly in the absence of monochromatic high-order aberrations.

Consensus Statement on the Diagnosis, Management, and Treatment of Angioedema Mediated by Bradykinin. Part II. Treatment, Follow-up, and Special Situations

Journal of Investigational Allergology & Clinical Immunology : Official Organ of the International Association of Asthmology (INTERASMA) and Sociedad Latinoamericana De Alergia E Inmunología. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21995176

There are no previous Spanish guidelines or consensus statements on bradykinin-induced angioedema.

Ultrastructural Characterization of Cystic Fibrosis Sputum Using Atomic Force and Scanning Electron Microscopy

Journal of Cystic Fibrosis : Official Journal of the European Cystic Fibrosis Society. Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21996135

BACKGROUND: Cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease is characterized by perpetuated neutrophilic inflammation with progressive tissue destruction. Neutrophils represent the major cellular fraction in CF airway fluids and are known to form neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) upon stimulation. Large amounts of extracellular DNA-NETs are present in CF airway fluids. However, the structural contribution of NETs to the matrix composition of CF airway fluid remains poorly understood. We hypothesized that CF airway fluids consist of distinct DNA-NETs that are associated to subcellular structures. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: We employed atomic force microcopy (AFM) and scanning electron microcopy to ultrastructurally characterize the nature of CF sputum and the role of NETs within the extracellular CF sputum matrix. These studies demonstrate that CF sputum is predominantly composed of a high-density meshwork of NETs and NETosis-derived material. Treatment of CF sputum with different DNases degraded CF NETs and efficiently liquefied the mucous-like structure of CF sputum. Quantitative analysis of AFM results showed the presence of three globular fractions within CF sputum and the larger two ones featured characteristics of neutrophil ectosomes. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: These studies suggest that excessive NET formation represents the major factor underlying the gel-like structure of CF sputum and provide evidence that CF-NETs contain ectosome-like structures that could represent targets for future therapeutic approaches.

Accuracy of the Reconstruction of the Crystalline Lens Gradient Index with Optimization Methods from Ray Tracing and Optical Coherence Tomography Data

Optics Express. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21996868

The accuracy of the reconstruction of the Gradient Refractive Index (GRIN) of the crystalline lens from optimization methods was evaluated. Different input data, including direction cosines of deflected rays, ray impacts obtained from ray tracing and optical path differences from Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) were studied. Three different GRIN models were analyzed. The experimental errors of the different experimental input data were estimated from comparisons of measurements and simulations using artificial lenses of known geometries. The experimental errors in the surfaces shape measurement and the influence of the number of rays were also considered. OCT-based input data produced the most accurate GRIN reconstructions. We found that optimization methods (combining global and local search algorithms) allow GRIN reconstructions with acceptable accuracies for moderate noise level.

Detection of Dihydrotestosterone Gel, Oral Dehydroepiandrosterone, and Testosterone Gel Misuse Through the Quantification of Testosterone Metabolites Released After Alkaline Treatment

Drug Testing and Analysis. Nov-Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21998068

The natural occurrence of endogenous anabolic steroids together with their availability in different administration forms makes the detection of their misuse a great challenge for doping control laboratories. Nowadays, the detection of endogenous steroids abuse is performed by the analysis of the steroid profile. Recently, androst-1,4-dien-3,17-dione (1,4-AD), androst-4,6-dien-3,17-dione (4,6-AD), 17β-hydroxy-androst-4,6-dien-3-one (6-T), and androst-15-en-3,17-dione (15-AD) have been described as testosterone (T) metabolites released after basic treatment of the urine. In the present work, the usefulness of these metabolites has been evaluated detecting the use of three different forms of endogenous steroids in a single dose: dihydrotestosterone gel (DHT), oral dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and T gel. After the independent administration of these endogenous steroids, a rise in the value of several of the ratios calculated between the tested metabolites was noticed. For DHT, a small increase was observed for the ratios 1,4-AD/15-AD, 6-T/15-AD and 4,6-AD/15-AD although only for one volunteer. Better results were obtained for oral DHEA and T gel where an increase was observed in all volunteers for several of the tested ratios. The detection time in which the misuse can be detected (DT) has been evaluated using two different approaches: (1) comparison with population based reference limits, and (2) comparison with individual threshold levels. The obtained DTs were compared with the results of previously published markers for the misuse of such substances. When using basic released metabolites, shorter DTs were obtained for DHT, similar DTs for DHEA, and the detectability was substantially improved for T gel.

Endocrinology and Gynecology of Girls and Women with Low Birth Weight

Fetal Diagnosis and Therapy. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22025019

In girls, low birth weight (LBW), when followed by postnatal catch-up growth, is accompanied by endocrine-metabolic abnormalities which include a more adipose body composition (with increased visceral fat), insulin resistance and a less favorable adipokine profile as early as in the pre-school age. These girls also exhibit follicle-stimulating hormone hypersecretion both in early infancy and early post-menarche, with reduced uterine and ovarian size in adolescence. These endocrine and gynecological changes result in a decreased ovulation rate and in an advanced tempo of adrenarche, pubertal development and menarche (by nearly a year, compared to non-LBW girls). The earlier maturation in LBW girls may result in a loss of about 1 SD in height, as compared with target height. During the post-menarcheal period, LBW girls are at increased risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome. Early insulin sensitization may prevent or delay some of the endocrine-metabolic abnormalities associated to LBW.

Sleep Duration and Emerging Cardiometabolic Risk Markers in Adolescents. The AFINOS Study

Sleep Medicine. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22036601

To examine the associations between sleep duration and emerging inflammatory and endothelial function risk factors in adolescents.

Assembling Phthalocyanine Dimers Through a Platinum(II) Acetylide Linker

Chemistry (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany). Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22052590

Phthalocyanine (Pc) dimers connected through trans-platinum(II) diacetylide linkers have been prepared by reaction of the corresponding ethynylphthalocyanines with trans-bis(triethylphosphine)platinum(II) chloride. Special emphasis was placed on the analysis of the ground- and excited-state features of these compounds in relation to butadiyne-bridged Pc dimers and the corresponding monomers. Both Zn(II)-containing Pc dimers exhibit long-lived triplet excited states. The insertion of σ-bonded trans-platinum(II) diacetylide spacers decoupled the two Pc groups and led to an appreciable acceleration (by a factor of up to 10) of the radiative and nonradiative decay rate of the singlet and triplet excited states.

Severity and Outcomes of Hospitalised Community-acquired Pneumonia in COPD Patients

The European Respiratory Journal : Official Journal of the European Society for Clinical Respiratory Physiology. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21920895

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a frequent comorbidity in patients with community acquired pneumonia (CAP).We investigated the impact of COPD on outcomes of CAP patients.We prospectively studied the clinical presentation of 1379 patients admitted with CAP during a 4 year-period. A comparative analysis of disease severity and course was performed between 212 patients with COPD, as confirmed by spirometry, and 1167 non-COPD patients.COPD patients (median FEV1=47.7±16.3 % predicted) were older and more likely received previous antibiotics (37.1% vs. 28.3%, p<0.01) than those without COPD. They presented with more severe respiratory failure, (Pa,O2/FIO2 (270.4 vs. 287.8, p<0.01) and more severe pneumonia (PSI, 118.3 vs. 108.5; p<0.001). However, COPD patients had less multilobar infiltration (44 (21%) vs. 349 (30%), p<0.01) and less pulmonary complications (24 [14%] vs. 241 [24%]; p<0.01). A total of 89 patients (6.5%) died within 30 days. COPD patients had not different 30-days mortality rate compared to non-COPD patients (9 patients [4.2%] vs. 81[7%], p=0.14).Despite worse clinical presentation COPD patients had a similar mortality compared to non-COPD patients. Previous antibiotic treatment and the decreased incidence pulmonary complications in COPD may account for these findings.

GESITRA-SEIMC/REIPI Recommendations for the Management of Cytomegalovirus Infection in Solid-organ Transplant Patients

Enfermedades Infecciosas Y Microbiología Clínica. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21925772

Cytomegalovirus infection remains a major complication of solid organ transplantation. In 2005 the Spanish Transplantation Infection Study Group (GESITRA) of the Spanish Society of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (SEIMC) developed consensus guidelines for the prevention and treatment of CMV infection in solid organ transplant recipients. Since then, numerous publications have clarified or questioned the aspects covered in the previous document. These aspects include the situations and populations who must receive prophylaxis and its duration, the selection of the best diagnosis and monitoring technique and the best therapeutic strategy. For these reasons, we have developed new consensus guidelines to include the latest recommendations on post-transplant CMV management based on new evidence available.

Inflammatory Mediators and Immune Response in Mexican Adolescents

Nutrición Hospitalaria : Organo Oficial De La Sociedad Española De Nutrición Parenteral Y Enteral. Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22072361

Low-grade inflammation and increased immunity related to cardiovascular diseases have been described in children and adults, however, studies in Mexican adolescents are being done at present.

Vision is Adapted to the Natural Level of Blur Present in the Retinal Image

PloS One. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22073247

The image formed by the eye's optics is inherently blurred by aberrations specific to an individual's eyes. We examined how visual coding is adapted to the optical quality of the eye.

CXCR1 and CXCR2 Haplotypes Synergistically Modulate Cystic Fibrosis Lung Disease

The European Respiratory Journal : Official Journal of the European Society for Clinical Respiratory Physiology. Nov, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22088968

Cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease severity is largely independent of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) genotype, indicating the contribution of genetic modifiers. The chemokine receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 have been found to play essential roles in the pathogenesis of CF lung disease. Here, we determine whether genetic variation of CXCR1 and CXCR2 influences CF lung disease severity.Genomic DNA of CF patients in Germany (n=442) was analysed for common variations in CXCR1 and CXCR2 using a single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) tagging approach. Associations of CXCR1 and CXCR2 SNPs and haplotypes with CF lung disease severity, CXCR1 and CXCR2 expression, and neutrophil effector functions were assessed.Four SNPs in CXCR1 and three in CXCR2 strongly correlated with age-adjusted lung function in CF patients. SNPs comprising haplotypes CXCR1_Ha and CXCR2_Ha were in high linkage disequilibrium and patients heterozygous for the CXCR1-2 haplotype cluster (CXCR1-2_Ha) had lower lung function compared to patients with homozygous wild-type alleles (FEV1≤70: OR=7.24; P=2.30×10(-5)). CF patients carrying CXCR1-2_Ha showed decreased CXCR1 combined with increased CXCR2 mRNA and protein expression and displayed disturbed antibacterial effector functions.CXCR1 and CXCR2 genotypes modulate lung function and antibacterial host defense in CF lung disease.

Mutagenic Analysis of Six Disinfection By-products in the Tk Gene of Mouse Lymphoma Cells

Journal of Hazardous Materials. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21561708

Drinking water must be disinfected prior to its distribution for human consumption. This water treatment process generates disinfection by-products (DBPs), formed by the interaction of the disinfectant with organic matter, anthropogenic contaminants and inorganic (bromide/iodide) matter naturally present in source water. Due to the potential genotoxic/carcinogenic risk of these DBPs, we have investigated the mutagenic potential of six of such compounds on the thymidine kinase (Tk) gene in the well-validated mouse lymphoma assay (MLA). The MLA quantifies a wide range of genetic alterations affecting the expression of this gene in L5178Y/Tk(+/-)-3.7.2C cells. In this study we selected six emerging DBPs, corresponding to three different chemical classes: halonitromethanes (bromonitromethane and trichloronitromethane), halogenated acetaldehydes (tribromoacetaldehyde and chloral hydrate) and hydroxyfuranones (mucobromic and mucochloric acids), each class including one chlorinated and one brominated form. The results showed that after 4h of treatment, only mucobromic acid increased the frequency of mutant colonies, with a higher proportion of small colonies, which would indicate a clastogenic potential. This is the first study reporting mutagenicity data in mammalian cells for the six selected DBPs.

Selective and Sensitive Chromo-fluorogenic Sensing of Anionic Surfactants in Water Using Functionalised Silica Nanoparticles

Chemical Communications (Cambridge, England). Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21562660

A new chromo-fluorogenic sensing protocol for anionic surfactants in aqueous environments using silica functionalised nanoparticles containing imidazolium and thiol groups has been developed.

A Straightforward Synthesis of 2-aminobenzothiazoles from Herz Compounds

Organic & Biomolecular Chemistry. Jul, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21584300

2-Aminobenzothiazoles are readily synthesised from anilines, sulfur monochloride and isocyanides. The key step consists of an iodine-catalysed insertion of isocyanides into the S-S bond of hydrolysed Herz salts, with concomitant extrusion of sulfur monoxide.

Asymmetric Synthesis of α-alkyl α-selenocarbonyl Compounds Catalyzed by Bifunctional Organocatalysts

Organic Letters. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21591622

A new organocatalytic approach for the synthesis of a variety of α-alkyl, α-phenylselenyl ketones as well as their corresponding esters and amides, by the addition of α-selenocarbonyl derivatives to nitroalkenes catalyzed by thiourea or squaramide cinchona catalysts, is presented. This catalytic system allows the preparation in high yields of enantiomerically enriched selenocarbonyl derivatives bearing two chiral centers with excellent ee's and dr's by using catalytic loadings of 3 mol%.

Harnessing Yeast Subcellular Compartments for the Production of Plant Terpenoids

Metabolic Engineering. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21601648

The biologically and commercially important terpenoids are a large and diverse class of natural products that are targets of metabolic engineering. However, in the context of metabolic engineering, the otherwise well-documented spatial subcellular arrangement of metabolic enzyme complexes has been largely overlooked. To boost production of plant sesquiterpenes in yeast, we enhanced flux in the mevalonic acid pathway toward farnesyl diphosphate (FDP) accumulation, and evaluated the possibility of harnessing the mitochondria as an alternative to the cytosol for metabolic engineering. Overall, we achieved 8- and 20-fold improvement in the production of valencene and amorphadiene, respectively, in yeast co-engineered with a truncated and deregulated HMG1, mitochondrion-targeted heterologous FDP synthase and a mitochondrion-targeted sesquiterpene synthase, i.e. valencene or amorphadiene synthase. The prospect of harnessing different subcellular compartments opens new and intriguing possibilities for the metabolic engineering of pathways leading to valuable natural compounds.

Are Thyroid Cancer Patients Sensitive to Ionising Radiation?

International Journal of Radiation Biology. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21605002

To determine the ionising radiation sensitivity of peripheral blood lymphocytes in a group of differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) patients.

Helpers at the Nest Compensate for Reduced Maternal Investment in Egg Size in Carrion Crows

Journal of Evolutionary Biology. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21605220

Life history theory predicts that mothers should trade off current and future reproductive attempts to maximize lifetime fitness. When breeding conditions are favourable, mothers may either increase investment in the eggs to improve the quality of the offspring or save resources for future reproduction as the good raising environment is likely to compensate for a 'bad start'. In cooperatively breeding birds, the presence of helpers improves breeding conditions so that mothers may vary the number, size and quality of the eggs in response to the composition of the group. Here, we show that in cooperatively breeding carrion crows Corvus corone corone, where nonbreeding males are more philopatric and more helpful at the nest than females, breeding females decreased egg size as the number of subordinate males in the group increased. However, despite the smaller investment in egg size, fledglings' weight increased in groups with more male subordinates, improving post-fledging survival and indicating that helpers fully compensated for the initial 'bad start'. These results highlight a 'hidden effect' of helpers that bears profound implications for understanding the ultimate function of helping.

Novel Antihypertensive Hexa- and Heptapeptides with ACE-inhibiting Properties: from the in Vitro ACE Assay to the Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat

Peptides. Jul, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21605609

Bioactive ACE inhibiting peptides are gaining interest in hypertension treatment. We have designed and screened six synthetic heptapeptides (PACEI48 to PACEI53) based on two hexapeptide leads (PACEI32 and PACEI34) to improve ACE inhibitory properties and assess their antihypertensive effects. ACE activity was assayed in vitro and ex vivo. Selected peptides were administered to spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and normotensive Wistar-Kyoto (WKY) rats. In vitro cytotoxicity was assessed with the MTT reduction test. The six heptapeptides at low micromolar concentration produced different degrees of in vitro inhibition of ACE activity using the synthetic substrate HHL or the natural substrate angiotensin I; and ex vivo inhibition of ACE-dependent, angiotensin I-induced vasoconstriction, but not angiotensin II-induced vasoconstriction. Oral administration of the hexapeptide PACEI32L, and the heptapeptides PACEI50L and PACEI52L, induced reductions in systolic blood pressure lasting up to 3h in SHRs but not in WKY rats. Intravenous injection of PACEI32L and PACEI50L, but not PACEI52L, induced acute transient reductions in mean blood pressure of SHRs. d-Amino acid peptides showed five-fold less ACE inhibitory potency, no inhibitory effect on angiotensin I-induced vasoconstriction, and antihypertensive effect in SHRs after i.v. injection, but not after oral administration. The toxicity of peptides to reduce the viability of cultured cells was in the millimolar range. In conclusion, we have obtained novel rationally designed heptapeptides with improved ACE inhibitory properties when compared to lead hexapeptides. One selected hexapeptide and two heptapeptides show oral antihypertensive effects in SHRs and appear safe in cytotoxicity assays.

Changes in Cardiometabolic Risk Factors, Appetite-controlling Hormones and Cytokines After a Treatment Program in Overweight Adolescents: Preliminary Findings from the EVASYON Study

Pediatric Diabetes. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21615652

We investigated the effects of the EVASYON program on body fatness, cardiometabolic risk factors, gut appetite-controlling hormones and serum levels of cytokines in adolescents with overweight or obesity (OW/OB).

Multiorgan Retrieval and Horseshoe Kidney: Case Report

Transplantation Proceedings. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21620085

Horseshoe kidney, a congenital anatomic condition with fusion of the kidney poles, causes the organ to be placed around the aorta usually below the origin of the mesenteric artery. This congenital disorder affects about 1 in 400 people. Retrieval for multiorgan transplantation dissects and canulates major abdominal vessels, aorta and vena cava, below the renal vessels to infuse refrigerated preservation solution. The presence of a horseshoe kidney could be a hazard for the retrieval team when cannulating when following standard techniques. We have described herein a surgical maneuver exposing the anterior surface of the aorta for canulation. We transected the horseshoe kidney in the midline with the use of a linear cutter stapler GIA 60 mm (Ethicon), after previously ligating both kidney pedicles. This technique was safely performed without the need for cannulation through the iliac vessels.

ST6GalNAc-I Controls Expression of Sialyl-Tn Antigen in Gastrointestinal Tissues

Frontiers in Bioscience (Elite Edition). 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21622148

Sialyl-Tn is a simple mucin-type carbohydrate antigen aberrantly expressed in gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas and in the precursor lesion intestinal metaplasia. Sialyl-Tn tumour expression is an independent indicator of poor prognosis. We have previously shown in vitro that ST6GalNAc-I and ST6GalNAc-II sialyltransferases can synthesize sialyl-Tn. The aim of the present study was to establish whether ST6GalNAc-I is the major enzyme responsible for the expression of sialyl-Tn. We used a model of CHO-ldlD cells producing only MUC1-Tn glycoform and showed that ST6GalNAc-I is the key-enzyme leading to sialyl-Tn biosynthesis. We developed novel monoclonal antibodies specific for ST6GalNAc-I and evaluated its expression in gastrointestinal tissues. ST6GalNAc-I was detected in normal colon mucosa co-localized with O-acetylated sialyl-Tn. Expression was largely unaltered in colorectal adenocarcinomas. In contrast, we found that ST6GalNAc-I is weakly expressed in normal gastric mucosa, but over-expressed in intestinal metaplasia, co-localized with sialyl-Tn. In gastric carcinomas ST6GalNAc-I was also associated with sialyl-Tn, but with heterogeneous staining and partial co-localization. Our results showed ST6GalNAc-I as the major enzyme controlling the expression of cancer-associated sialyl-Tn antigen in gastrointestinal tissues.

Early Metformin Therapy (age 8-12 Years) in Girls with Precocious Pubarche to Reduce Hirsutism, Androgen Excess, and Oligomenorrhea in Adolescence

The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21632811

Girls with a combined history of low(-normal) birth weight (LBW) and precocious pubarche (PP) are at high risk to develop polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Molecular Characterization of the North American Lung Fluke Paragonimus Kellicotti in Missouri and Its Development in Mongolian Gerbils

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21633042

Human paragonimiasis is an emerging disease in Missouri. To characterize local parasites, we examined crayfish from three rivers. Metacercaeriae consistent with Paragonimus kellicotti were detected in 69%, 67%, and 37% of crayfish from the Big Piney, Huzzah, and Black Rivers, respectively. Sequencing of the second internal transcribed spacer and other DNA markers confirmed the species identification and the presence of identical parasite sequences in clinical specimens from two human cases. Mongolian gerbils were infected by intraperitoneal injection with 3-8 metacercariae. Most gerbils died 15-49 days post-infection. Necropsies showed pulmonary hemorrhage with necrosis, and flukes as long as 8 mm were recovered from intrathoracic tissues. Western blot analysis using P. kellicotti antigen showed a strong antibody response in gerbils 39 days post-infection. These results demonstrate that P. kellicotti is common in Missouri crayfish. The gerbil model may be useful for research on the pathogenesis, immunology, and treatment of paragonimiasis.

Influence of Environmental and Genetic Factors Linked to Celiac Disease Risk on Infant Gut Colonization by Bacteroides Species

Applied and Environmental Microbiology. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21642397

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune-mediated enteropathy involving genetic and environmental factors whose interaction might influence disease risk. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of milk-feeding practices and the HLA-DQ genotype on intestinal colonization of Bacteroides species in infants at risk of CD development. This study included 75 full-term newborns with at least one first-degree relative suffering from CD. Infants were classified according to milk-feeding practice (breast-feeding or formula feeding) and HLA-DQ genotype (high or low genetic risk). Stools were analyzed at 7 days, 1 month, and 4 months by PCR and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The Bacteroides species diversity index was higher in formula-fed infants than in breast-fed infants. Breast-fed infants showed a higher prevalence of Bacteroides uniformis at 1 and 4 months of age, while formula-fed infants had a higher prevalence of B. intestinalis at all sampling times, of B. caccae at 7 days and 4 months, and of B. plebeius at 4 months. Infants with high genetic risk showed a higher prevalence of B. vulgatus, while those with low genetic risk showed a higher prevalence of B. ovatus, B. plebeius, and B. uniformis. Among breast-fed infants, the prevalence of B. uniformis was higher in those with low genetic risk than in those with high genetic risk. Among formula-fed infants, the prevalence of B. ovatus and B. plebeius was increased in those with low genetic risk, while the prevalence of B. vulgatus was higher in those with high genetic risk. The results indicate that both the type of milk feeding and the HLA-DQ genotype influence the colonization process of Bacteroides species, and possibly the disease risk.

Genotoxicity Testing of Two Lead-compounds in Somatic Cells of Drosophila Melanogaster

Mutation Research. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21645631

The in vivo genotoxic activity of two inorganic lead compounds was studied in Drosophila melanogaster by measurement of two different genetic endpoints. We used the wing-spot test and the comet assay. The comet assay was conducted with larval haemocytes. The results from the wing-spot test showed that neither lead chloride, PbCl(2), nor lead nitrate, Pb(NO(3))(2), were able to induce significant increases in the frequency of mutant spots. In addition, the combined treatments with gamma-radiation and PbCl(2) or Pb(NO(3))(2) did not show significant variations in the frequency of the three categories of mutant spots recorded, compared with the frequency induced by gamma-radiation alone. This seems to indicate that the lead compounds tested do not interact with the repair of the genetic damage induced by ionizing radiation. When the lead compounds were evaluated in the in vivo comet assay with haemocytes, Pb(NO(3))(2) was effective in inducing significant increases of DNA damage with a direct dose-response pattern. These results confirm the usefulness of the comet assay with haemocytes as an in vivo model and support the assumption that there is a genotoxic risk associated with lead exposure.

Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes in the Livers of Chronically I-As-treated Hamsters

Mutation Research. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21658394

Inorganic arsenic (i-As) is a human carcinogen causing skin, lung, urinary bladder, liver and kidney tumors. Chronic exposure to this naturally occurring contaminant, mainly via drinking water, is a significant worldwide environmental health concern. To explore the molecular mechanisms of arsenic hepatic injury, a differential display polymerase chain reaction (DD-PCR) screening was undertaken to identify genes with distinct expression patterns between the liver of low i-As-exposed and control animals. Golden Syrian hamsters (5-6 weeks of age) received drinking water containing 15 mg i-As/L as sodium arsenite, or unaltered water for 18 weeks. The in vivo MN test was carried out, and the frequency of micronucleated reticulocytes (MN-RETs) was scored as a measure of exposure and As-related genotoxic/carcinogenic risk. A total of 68 differentially expressed bands were identified in our initial screen, 41 of which could be assigned to specific genes. Differential level of expression of a selected number of genes was verified using real-time RT-PCR with gene-specific primers. Arsenic-altered gene expression included genes related to stress response, cellular metabolism, cell cycle regulation, telomere maintenance, cell-cell communication and signal transduction. Significant differences of MN-RET were found between treated (8.70 ± 0.02 MN/1000RETs) and control (2.5 ± 0.70 MN/1000RETs) groups (P<0.001), demonstrating both the exposure and the i-As genotoxic/carcinogenic risk. Overall, this paper reveals some possible networks involved in hepatic arsenic-related genotoxicity, carcinogenesis and diabetogenesis. Additional studies to explore further the potential implications of each candidate gene are of especial interest. The present work opens the door to new prospects for the study of i-As mechanisms taking place in the liver under chronic settings.

Epidemiology and Clinical Outcomes of Bloodstream Infections Among Lupus Patients

Lupus. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21659421

Infection is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This study was aimed at characterizing bloodstream infections in these patients and analysing factors associated with long term outcome. For this purpose, episodes of significant bacteraemia diagnosed from January 1991 to December 2006 among patients with SLE at a single centre were identified through a central database and clinical and analytical variables were recorded regarding short- and long-term follow-up. Univariate and multivariable analysis were performed to identify factors associated with long-term outcome. Thirty-eight SLE patients had 48 episodes of significant bacteraemia, with a 30-day mortality rate of 6.25%. Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were the leading Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens, respectively. After a median follow-up of 25 months, eight of these 38 patients (21.1%) had a further episode of bacteraemia and 13 of them (34.21%) died. Community-acquired bacteraemia and C reactive protein levels lower than 8 mg/dl during episodes were factors associated with lower long-term mortality. These results reinforce previous findings suggesting that lupus patients with bacteraemia episodes have poor long-term outcomes.

Changing Epidemiology of Central Venous Catheter-related Bloodstream Infections: Increasing Prevalence of Gram-negative Pathogens

The Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21665905

Gram-positive microorganisms have been the predominant pathogens in central venous catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs). Recent guidelines recommend empirical therapy according to this and restrict coverage for Gram-negatives to specific circumstances. This study aimed to analyse the epidemiological changes in CRBSIs over the 1991-2008 period and to analyse predictors of Gram-negative CRBSIs.

Frontiers in Vitamin Research: New Antibodies, New Data

TheScientificWorldJournal. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21666992

Since 2004, the anatomical distribution of vitamins in the monkey brain, studied using immunohistochemical techniques and new tools (specific antisera that discriminate different vitamins reasonably well), has been an ongoing research field. The visualization of immunoreactive structures containing vitamins (folic acid, riboflavin, thiamine, pyridoxal, and vitamin C) has recently been reported in the monkey brain (Macaca fascicularis), all these vitamins showing a restricted or very restricted distribution. Folic acid, thiamine, and riboflavin have only been observed in immunoreactive fibers, vitamin C has only been found in cell bodies (located in the primary somatosensory cortex), and pyridoxal has been found in both fibers and cell bodies. Perikarya containing pyridoxal have been observed in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus, the periventricular hypothalamic region, and in the supraoptic nucleus. The fibers containing vitamins are thick, smooth (without varicosities), and are of medium length or long, whereas immunoreactive cell bodies containing vitamins are round or triangular. At present, there are insufficient data to elucidate the roles played by vitamins in the brain, but the anatomical distribution of these compounds in the monkey brain provides a general idea (although imprecise and requiring much more study) about the possible functional implications of these molecules. In this sense, here the possible functional roles played by vitamins are discussed.

Intensive Care Unit Discharge to the Ward with a Tracheostomy Cannula As a Risk Factor for Mortality: a Prospective, Multicenter Propensity Analysis

Critical Care Medicine. Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21670665

To analyze the impact of decannulation before intensive care unit discharge on ward survival in nonexperimental conditions.

Selective Opening of Nanoscopic Capped Mesoporous Inorganic Materials with Nerve Agent Simulants; an Application to Design Chromo-fluorogenic Probes

Chemical Communications (Cambridge, England). Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21691625

A hybrid nanoscopic capped mesoporous material, that is selectively opened in the presence of nerve agent simulants, has been prepared and used as a probe for the chromo-fluorogenic detection of these chemicals.

Sexual Dimorphism in the Early Life Programming of Serum Leptin Levels in European Adolescents: the HELENA Study

The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21697251

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that a lower birth weight, as an indicator of adverse intrauterine environment, is associated with higher serum leptin levels in European adolescents. We also examined the possible sexual dimorphism in this relationship.

Chromium-induced Genotoxicity and Interference in Human Lymphoblastoid Cell (TK6) Repair Processes

Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part A. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21707427

Two model chromium (Cr) compounds, one hexavalent (sodium chromate) and one trivalent (chromium chloride), were investigated in a human lymphoblastoid cell line (TK6) to increase our knowledge regarding Cr-induced genotoxicity mechanisms. Both selected compounds were genotoxic using the comet assay, although the percentage of DNA in tail obtained after treatment with Cr(VI) was significantly higher than that obtained with Cr(III), at the higher concentrations tested. To determine the nature of the induced damage, enzymes recognizing oxidized bases were used. Treatments with formamidopyrimidine (FPG) and endonuclease III (EndoIII) displayed a greater degree of DNA damage, indicating that the induction of oxidized bases accounts for an important proportion of the damage induced by Cr compounds. In addition, the kinetic repair studies showed that generated DNA damage is removed in approximately 8 h, with the damage induced by Cr(III) being removed/repaired more rapidly than damage produced by Cr(VI). To detect Cr interferences with the repair process, a post-treatment was applied after exposure to 2 Gy gamma radiation. Post-treatment significantly delayed the repair kinetics of DNA damage induced by radiation. This interference effect induced by Cr(VI) was more pronounced. In conclusion, evidence indicates that a high proportion of the Cr-induced DNA damage is correlated with oxidative damage, and that both Cr compounds interfere with repair mechanisms involved in repair of DNA damage induced by gamma radiation.

Construction and Validation of a Dose-response Curve Using the Comet Assay to Determine Human Radiosensitivity to Ionizing Radiation

Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health. Part A. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21707432

Individual radiosensitivity is an individual characteristic associated with an increased reaction to ionizing radiation. The purpose of our work is to establish a dose-response curve useful to classify individuals as radiosensitive or radioresistant. Thus, a dose-response curve was constructed by measuring in vitro responses to increasing doses (0 to 8 Gy) of gamma radiation in the comet assay. The obtained curve fit well with a linear equation in the range of 0 to 8 Gy. The overall dose-response curve was constructed for percent DNA in tail, as a measure of the genetic damage induced by irradiation. To probe the goodness of the constructed curve, a validation study was carried out with whole blood from two donors in a blind study. Results show that, for the two applied doses (2 and 6 Gy), the obtained values fit well inside the interval of confidence of the curve. In conclusion, our results demonstrate the usefulness of the comet assay in determining individual responses to defined doses of gamma radiation. The standard dose-response curve constructed may be used to detect individuals departing from reference values.

Adapting to Blur Produced by Ocular High-order Aberrations

Journal of Vision. 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21712375

The perceived focus of an image can be strongly biased by prior adaptation to a blurred or sharpened image. We examined whether these adaptation effects can occur for the natural patterns of retinal image blur produced by high-order aberrations (HOAs) in the optics of the eye. Focus judgments were measured for 4 subjects to estimate in a forced choice procedure (sharp/blurred) their neutral point after adaptation to different levels of blur produced by scaled increases or decreases in their HOAs. The optical blur was simulated by convolution of the PSFs from the 4 different HOA patterns, with Zernike coefficients (excluding tilt, defocus, and astigmatism) multiplied by a factor between 0 (diffraction limited) and 2 (double amount of natural blur). Observers viewed the images through an Adaptive Optics system that corrected their aberrations and made settings under neutral adaptation to a gray field or after adapting to 5 different blur levels. All subjects adapted to changes in the level of blur imposed by HOA regardless of which observer's HOA was used to generate the stimuli, with the perceived neutral point proportional to the amount of blur in the adapting image.

Pulmonary Artery Smooth Muscle Cell Senescence is a Pathogenic Mechanism for Pulmonary Hypertension in Chronic Lung Disease

Circulation Research. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21719760

Senescence of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PA-SMCs) caused by telomere shortening or oxidative stress may contribute to pulmonary hypertension associated with chronic lung diseases.

Female Reproductive Tract of the Lesser Anteater (Tamandua Tetradactyla, Myrmecophagidae, Xenarthra). Anatomy and Histology

Journal of Morphology. Nov, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21732404

The morphological and histological features of the unusual reproductive tract of the female lesser anteater, Tamandua tetradactyla (Myrmecophagidae, Xenarthra), are described for the first time. The present study aimed to establish the main similarities and differences between this species and other xenarthrans. The populations of this species are declining rapidly for a number of reasons and our study is relevant to diverse programs related to its conservation. Studies were carried out on five female genital tracts of adult specimens. Ovaries were ovoid, presenting a medulla completely surrounded by the cortex, differently from that described in other xenarthans. Like in Dasypus but different from all other armadillos studied, single oocyte follicles were observed and a simple the uterus. The uterovaginal canal connects the uterus with the urogenital sinus. The simple columnar epithelium of the uterovaginal canal ends abruptly at a septum which resembles a hymen, where the transitional epithelium of the urogenital sinus appears. This ancestral feature is shared with that of other armadillos, except Tolypeutes matacus, which has a true vagina. Characteristics of the reproductive tract and sperm morphology of other Xenarthra are comparatively discussed. These observations suggest that important reproductive features are shared between the family Myrmecophagidae and the genus Dasypus, a basal group in the phylogeny of Xenarthra.

Immunostimulatory Effect of Faecal Bifidobacterium Species of Breast-fed and Formula-fed Infants in a Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell/Caco-2 Co-culture System

The British Journal of Nutrition. Oct, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21736809

Bifidobacterium spp. typical of the human intestinal microbiota are believed to influence the balance of immune responses in the intestinal mucosa. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of different bifidobacterial species and their mixtures in in vitro experiments with peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and Caco-2 cells. Bifidobacterium adolescentis, B. angulatum, B. breve, B. catenulatum, B. infantis, B. longum and two combinations of these bifidobacteria simulating the species composition found in faecal samples from breast-fed (BF) and formula-fed (FF) infants were used. The levels of several cytokines were measured by direct stimulation of PBMC and by stimulation of a Caco-2/PBMC co-culture with bifidobacteria. B. catenulatum and B. breve were the strongest enhancers of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production by direct stimulation of PBMC. B. longum was the highest inducer of IL-10 and the lowest TNF-α stimulus. In the Caco-2/PBMC system, B. breve was the highest inducer of IL-8 production by Caco-2 cells, significantly different from B. infantis, B. adolescentis and the FF mixture (P < 0·05). IFN-γ produced by PBMC stimulated with the BF mixture (containing 22 % B. breve, compared with 7 % in the FF mixture) was significantly higher compared with B. adolescentis, B. infantis and B. longum. B. adolescentis also inhibited IFN-γ production compared with the FF mixture and B. longum. The proportion of different Bifidobacterium strains seems to be an important determinant of the cytokine balance in the simulated intestinal environment studied. B. breve and the combination of the Bifidobacterium species typically found in the microbiota of BF infants have shown the most significant effects.

Screening for Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Virus Among Hospital Staff, Spain

Emerging Infectious Diseases. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21749796

Genotoxic Analysis of Four Lipid-peroxidation Products in the Mouse Lymphoma Assay

Mutation Research. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21763450

Lipid-peroxidation products are formed by the thermal treatment of foodstuffs, as well as by endogenous processes. In addition, they are also common environmental pollutants originating from many different sources. Since conflicting data exist on their possible risk for humans, we have selected four lipid-peroxidation products namely acrolein, crotonaldehyde, 4-hydroxy-hexenal (4-HHE) and 4-oxo-2-nonenal (4-ONE) to determine their ability to induce mutagenicity in mammalian cells. There is an important lack of mutagenicity data on mammalian cells for such products, which presents an important gap for any risk-assessment estimation. We have used the mouse lymphoma assay (MLA) to determine the mutagenic potential of these four compounds. This assay detects a broad spectrum of mutational events, from point mutations to chromosome alterations. The results obtained indicate that the four selected compounds are mutagenic in the MLA assay, showing a direct dose-effect relationship. The relative mutagenic potencies according to the induced mutant frequency (IMF) are as follows: crotonaldehyde (IMF=758.5×10(-6)), 4-ONE (IMF=700.5×10(-6)), acrolein (IMF=660.5×10(-6)) and 4-HHE (IMF=572×10(-6)). Although the differences between the induced mutant frequencies for these compounds are not very large, the α,β-unsaturated aldehyde 4-oxo-2-nonenal turned out to be the agent most mutagenic. This is because its induced mutant frequency was reached after treatment with 10μM, while 50μM of the other compounds was needed to reach the reported frequencies.

Alternative Markers for the Long-term Detection of Oral Testosterone Misuse

Steroids. Nov, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21782838

The screening of testosterone misuse in the doping control field is normally performed by the measurement of the ratio between the concentrations of testosterone and epitestosterone excreted as glucuronides (T/E). Despite the satisfactory results obtained with this approach, the measurement of T/E presents some limitations like the long-term detection of oral testosterone administration. Recently, several testosterone metabolites released after basic treatment of the urine have been reported (androsta-1,4-dien-3,17-dione, androsta-4,6-dien-3,17-dione, 17β-hydroxy-androsta-4,6-dien-3-one and 15-androsten-3,17-dione). In the present work, the usefulness of these metabolites for the detection of oral testosterone misuse has been evaluated and compared with the conventional T/E measurement. For this purpose, 173 urine samples collected from healthy volunteers were analysed in order to obtain reference concentrations for the four metabolites released after alkaline treatment. On the other hand, urine samples collected from five volunteers before and after testosterone undecanoate administration were also analysed. Concentrations of androsta-4,6-dien-3,17-dione and 17β-hydroxy-androsta-4,6-dien-3-one showed a similar behaviour as the T/E, allowing the detection of the misuse for several hours after administration. More promising results were obtained by quantifying androsta-1,4-dien-3,17-dione and 15-androsten-3,17-dione. The time in which the concentrations of these analytes could be differentiated from the basal level was between 3 and 6 times longer than the obtained with T/E, as a result, an improvement in the detection of testosterone abuse can be achieved. Moreover, several ratios between these compounds were evaluated. Some of them improved the detection of testosterone misuse when comparing with T/E. The best results were obtained with those ratios involving androsta-1,4-dien-3,17-dione.

Case Report: Melioidosis Imported from West Africa to Europe

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21813848

We report the first case of imported melioidosis in Spain from a diabetic immigrant who visited West Africa during the rainy season. Because of the unusual presentation of this disease in Africa, clinical and microbiological diagnosis of imported melioidosis from this continent can be very elusive.

Influence of Cytomegalovirus Disease in Outcome of Solid Organ Transplant Patients

Transplantation Proceedings. Jul-Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21839217

Despite recent advances in prevention and treatment, cytomegalovirus (CMV) is still a major complication in transplant patients. This study sought to analyze the incidence of CMV disease and its impact on patient and graft survival.

Enzyme-mediated Controlled Release Systems by Anchoring Peptide Sequences on Mesoporous Silica Supports

Angewandte Chemie (International Ed. in English). Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21344569

Mechanisms of Liver Fibrosis Associated with Experimental Fasciola Hepatica Infection: Roles of Fas2 Proteinase and Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation

The Journal of Parasitology. Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21348611

We have evaluated the possible mechanisms of liver fibrosis caused by Fasciola hepatica in an animal model and in culture using immortalized human stellate cells. Liver biopsies of F. hepatica-infected rats were performed at wk 8 and 16. Serum-starved LX-2 cells, a human stellate cell line, were exposed to increasing concentrations of Fas2 antigen. The expression of key fibrosis-related genes was evaluated by qRT-PCR. There was a significant correlation between fibrogenic gene expression and both intensity and duration of infection. LX-2 cells exposed to Fas2 showed progressively increased expression of mRNAs for Collagen I, alpha-smooth muscle-actin, platelet-derived growth factor beta receptor, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase II; inhibition of Fas2 cysteine proteinase activity by E-64 abrogated these increases, suggesting that the protease activity of Fas2 is involved in fibrogenic stimulation. In summary, F. hepatica infection is associated with up-regulation of mRNAs associated with hepatic fibrogenesis in vivo and in activated hepatic stellate cells.

Microbial Alignment in Flow Changes Ocean Light Climate

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21368125

The growth of microbial cultures in the laboratory often is assessed informally with a quick flick of the wrist: dense suspensions of microorganisms produce translucent "swirls" when agitated. Here, we rationalize the mechanism behind this phenomenon and show that the same process may affect the propagation of light through the upper ocean. Analogous to the shaken test tubes, the ocean can be characterized by intense fluid motion and abundant microorganisms. We demonstrate that the swirl patterns arise when elongated microorganisms align preferentially in the direction of fluid flow and alter light scattering. Using a combination of experiments and mathematical modeling, we find that this phenomenon can be recurrent under typical marine conditions. Moderate shear rates (0.1 s(-1)) can increase optical backscattering of natural microbial assemblages by more than 20%, and even small shear rates (0.001 s(-1)) can increase backscattering from blooms of large phytoplankton by more than 30%. These results imply that fluid flow, currently neglected in models of marine optics, may exert an important control on light propagation, influencing rates of global carbon fixation and how we estimate these rates via remote sensing.

Effect of Air-flow on the Evaluation of Refractive Surgery Ablation Patterns

Optics Express. Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21369297

An Allegretto Eye-Q laser platform (Wavelight GmbH, Erlangen, Germany) was used to study the effect of air-flow speed on the ablation of artificial polymer corneas used for testing refractive surgery patterns. Flat samples of two materials (PMMA and Filofocon A) were ablated at four different air flow conditions. The shape and profile of the ablated surfaces were measured with a precise non-contact optical surface profilometer. Significant asymmetries in the measured profiles were found when the ablation was performed with the clinical air aspiration system, and also without air flow. Increasing air-flow produced deeper ablations, improved symmetry, and increased the repeatability of the ablation pattern. Shielding of the laser pulse by the plume of smoke during the ablation of plastic samples reduced the central ablation depth by more than 40% with no-air flow, 30% with clinical air aspiration, and 5% with 1.15 m/s air flow. A simple model based on non-inertial dragging of the particles by air flow predicts no central shielding with 2.3 m/s air flow, and accurately predicts (within 2 μm) the decrease of central ablation depth by shielding. The shielding effects for PMMA and Filofocon A were similar despite the differences in the ablation properties of the materials and the different full-shielding transmission coefficient, which is related to the number of particles ejected and their associated optical behavior. Air flow is a key factor in the evaluation of ablation patterns in refractive surgery using plastic models, as significant shielding effects are found with typical air-flow levels used under clinical conditions. Shielding effects can be avoided by tuning the air flow to the laser repetition rate.

Influenza C Virus Surveillance During the First Influenza A (H1N1) 2009 Pandemic Wave in Catalonia, Spain

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease. Apr, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21396539

Although particular attention is paid to influenza A and B virus isolates during influenza surveillance, influenza C virus (FLUCV) coexisted during the first influenza A (H1N1) 2009 pandemic wave during the 2009-2010 season. From 27 April 2009 to 9 May 2010, 12 strains of FLUCV were detected in specimens collected from 1713 nonhospitalized patients with upper respiratory tract illness using a molecular method. Half of the patients with FLUCV infection were older than 14 years. The most frequent symptoms were cough and fever, similar to other viral respiratory infections. Phylogenetic analysis of the hemagglutinin-esterase gene revealed that the strains belonged to the C/Kanagawa/1/76-related and C/Sao Paulo/378/82-related lineages, demonstrating their co-circulation in Catalonia. In addition to regular virological surveillance that provides information about the incidence and the exact role of FLUCV in acute viral respiratory infections in the general population, the genetic lineage identification offers additional data for epidemiological purposes.

Lack of Impact of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection on the Outcome of Lymphoma Patients Transferred to the Intensive Care Unit

Leukemia & Lymphoma. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21406044

The impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection on the outcome of patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related lymphoma with life-threatening complications requiring intensive care unit (ICU) admission is not well known. The objective of this study was to compare the outcome of patients with lymphoma transferred to the ICU according to HIV infection status. The clinical characteristics, reason for ICU admission, and outcome of 48 consecutive critically ill patients with lymphoma admitted to the ICU from January 2000 to March 2010 was retrospectively analyzed, focusing on their HIV serology status. Thirty-six patients were HIV-negative and 12 patients HIV-positive. Burkitt lymphoma was more frequent in HIV-infected patients, whereas diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was more frequent in HIV-negative patients. The main acute life-threatening diseases precipitating ICU transfer were similar in both groups. Severe neutropenia was more frequent in HIV-positive than in HIV-negative patients. With a median follow-up of 53 months after ICU admission, the overall survival probabilities were 15% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 3-27%) and 17% (95% CI: 0-38%) for HIV-negative and HIV-positive patients, respectively. The 2-year survival probabilities were 34% (95% CI: 10-58%) and 40% (95% CI: 0-43%) for HIV-negative and HIV-positive patients discharged from the ICU, respectively. In this study, HIV infection did not have a negative impact on the outcome of patients with lymphoma admitted to the ICU.

Association Studies of OGG1, XRCC1, XRCC2 and XRCC3 Polymorphisms with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer

Mutation Research. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21414327

The role of the DNA repair genes OGG1, XRCC1, XRCC2 and XRCC3 on differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) susceptibility was examined in 881 individuals (402 DTC and 479 controls). DNA repair genes were proposed as candidate genes, since the current data indicate that exposure to ionizing radiation is the only established factor in the development of thyroid cancer, especially when it occurs in early stages of life. We have genotyped DNA repair genes involved in base excision repair (BER) (OGG1, Ser326Cys; XRCC1, Arg280His and Arg399Gln), and homologous recombination repair (HRR) (XRCC2, Arg188His and XRCC3, ISV-14G). Genotyping was carried out using the iPLEX (Sequenom) technique. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed in a case-control study design. From all the studied polymorphism, only a positive association (OR=1.58, 95% CI 1.05-2.46, P=0.027) was obtained for XRCC1 (Arg280His). No associations were observed for the other polymorphisms. No effects of the histopathological type of tumor were found when the DTC patients were stratified according to the type of tumor. It must be emphasized that this study include the greater patients group, among the few studies carried out until now determining the role of DNA repair genes in thyroid cancer susceptibility.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus USA300 Clone As a Cause of Lemierre's Syndrome

Journal of Clinical Microbiology. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21430106

We describe a case of a young woman who had methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus USA300 clone (MRSA-USA300)-associated Lemierre's syndrome and secondary necrotizing pneumonia and cerebral infarcts. We also review 11 cases of S. aureus-associated Lemierre's syndrome reported in the literature from 1965 to 2010. Recognition of S. aureus as an emergent cause of Lemierre's syndrome informs the initial empirical antibiotic choice for this life-threatening condition and may positively impact patient outcomes.

Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia

Advances in Therapy. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21431629

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of clonal cell disorders characterized by maturation defects, resulting in ineffective hematopoiesis. They often transform to acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML), which is difficult to treat and carries a dismal prognosis. Azacitidine is a hypomethylating agent approved for the treatment of patients with MDS, including AML with 20% to 30% bone marrow blasts, according to World Health Organization classification. The three patient cases presented in this paper exemplify the spectrum of antitumor activity and toxicity of azactidine in patients where MDS transformed to AML.

An Unusual Cause of Membranous Glomerulonephritis in a Patient with HIV

International Urology and Nephrology. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21437594

A 68-year old Caucasian male with a past medical history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection presented with acute oliguric renal failure and maculopapular rash. Renal biopsy demonstrated extensive foot process effacement as well as confluent small subepithelial electron-dense deposits, which is diagnostic of membranous glomerulonephritis. Subsequent serological tests showed venereal disease research laboratory test was positive in both serum and cerebral spinal fluid. Following penicillin treatment, the patient's creatinine returned to baseline 4 weeks later. Secondary membranous glomerulonephritis caused by syphilis in patients with HIV is discussed.

Design of Isoplanatic Aspheric Monofocal Intraocular Lenses

Optics Express. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21451647

A new and complete methodology of monofocal intraocular lens (IOL) design is presented aiming at isoplanatism, i.e. IOLs that provide the eye with optimized optical quality over a wide field of view (typically in a range of ten degrees). The methodology uses a merit function considering dimensional and biomechanical constraints, and a geometrical optical quality metric that is evaluated simultaneously at different field angles. As an example, we present new isoplanatic designs based on different commercial IOL platforms. Aspheric isoplanatic designs improve peripheral quality over current aspheric IOLs. Also, isoplanatic designs provide more stable optical quality across the field and across pupil diameter.

[Trends in Six Years Participation in Extracurricular Physical Activity in Adolescents. The AVENA and AFINOS Studies]

Revista Española De Cardiología. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21458131

Phylogeography of the Atlanto-Mediterranean Sea Cucumber Holothuria (Holothuria) Mammata: the Combined Effects of Historical Processes and Current Oceanographical Pattern

Molecular Ecology. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21463375

We assessed the genetic structure of populations of the widely distributed sea cucumber Holothuria (Holothuria) mammata Grube, 1840, and investigated the effects of marine barriers to gene flow and historical processes. Several potential genetic breaks were considered, which would separate the Atlantic and Mediterranean basins, the isolated Macaronesian Islands from the other locations analysed, and the Western Mediterranean and Aegean Sea (Eastern Mediterranean). We analysed mitochondrial 16S and COI gene sequences from 177 individuals from four Atlantic locations and four Mediterranean locations. Haplotype diversity was high (H=0.9307 for 16S and 0.9203 for COI), and the haplotypes were closely related (π=0.0058 for 16S and 0.0071 for COI). The lowest genetic diversities were found in the Aegean Sea population. Our results showed that the COI gene was more variable and more useful for the detection of population structure than the 16S gene. The distribution of mtDNA haplotypes, the pairwise F(ST) values and the results of exact tests and amova revealed: (i) a significant genetic break between the population in the Aegean Sea and those in the other locations, as supported by both mitochondrial genes, and (ii) weak differentiation of the Canary and Azores Islands from the other populations; however, the populations from the Macaronesian Islands, Algarve and West Mediterranean could be considered to be a panmictic metapopulation. Isolation by distance was not identified in H. (H.) mammata. Historical events behind the observed findings, together with the current oceanographic patterns, were proposed and discussed as the main factors that determine the population structure and genetic signature of H. (H.) mammata.

Objectively Measured Physical Activity and Sedentary Time in European Adolescents: the HELENA Study

American Journal of Epidemiology. Jul, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21467152

The authors' aim in this cross-sectional study was to characterize levels of objectively measured physical activity and sedentary time in adolescents from 9 European countries. The study comprised 2,200 European adolescents (1,184 girls) participating in the HELENA cross-sectional study (2006-2008). Physical activity was measured by accelerometry and was expressed as average intensity (counts/minute) and amount of time (minutes/day) spent engaging in moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA). Time spent in sedentary behaviors was also objectively measured. Cardiorespiratory fitness was measured by means of the 20-m shuttle run test. Level of maternal education was reported by the adolescents. A higher proportion of boys (56.8% of boys vs. 27.5% of girls) met the physical activity recommendations of at least 60 minutes/day of MVPA. Adolescents spent most of the registered time in sedentary behaviors (9 hours/day, or 71% of the registered time). Both average intensity and MVPA were higher in adolescents with high cardiorespiratory fitness, and sedentary time was lower in the high-fitness group. There were no physical activity or sedentary time differences between maternal education categories. These data provide an objective measure of physical activity and amount of time spent in sedentary behaviors in a relatively large number of European adolescents.

Multiphoton Microscopy of Ex Vivo Corneas After Collagen Cross-linking

Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science. Jul, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21467175

To investigate changes in the morphology of the corneal stroma after collagen cross-linking (CXL) treatment in bovine and porcine eyes using a nonlinear microscope providing both two-photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG) corneal images.

Laboratory and Clinical Evaluation of Screening Agar Plates for Detection of Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae from Surveillance Rectal Swabs

Journal of Clinical Microbiology. Jun, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21471338

The increased worldwide spread of carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) emphasizes the need for a sensitive screening procedure to identify these microorganisms. Gastrointestinal carriers may serve as the reservoir for cross-transmission in the health care setting, and thus active surveillance is a key part in preventing the spread of such strains. Three agar-based methods for direct CRE detection from rectal swabs were compared: CHROMagar-KPC (Chrom); MacConkey agar with imipenem at 1 μg/ml (MacI); and MacConkey plates with imipenem, meropenem, and ertapenem disks (MacD). First, we compared the levels of detection (LODs) of 10 molecularly characterized carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae strains by the three methods. Second, we compared their performance in a surveillance study using rectal swabs (n = 139). The LODs of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae strains were influenced by their MICs to carbapenems and were best for MacI, followed by Chrom. The MacD method was able to detect only the strains exhibiting MICs of ≥ 32 μg/ml to at least ertapenem. In the surveillance study, both Chrom and MacI had greater sensitivity (85%) than MacD (76%). However, MacI was the most specific method. In conclusion, MacI appears to be most appropriate medium for the detection of CRE in settings in which multiclonal CRE strains with various MICs to carbapenems are circulating.

Common Variants of the Thyroglobulin Gene Are Associated with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Risk

Thyroid : Official Journal of the American Thyroid Association. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21476894

Genetic factors are important in thyroid cancer susceptibility. Recently, it has been reported that there are associations of certain chromosome regions with thyroid cancer. In this case-control study, we sought to determine whether there is an association between differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) and variants in regions of chromosome 8q.

SFRPs Act As Negative Modulators of ADAM10 to Regulate Retinal Neurogenesis

Nature Neuroscience. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21478884

It is well established that retinal neurogenesis in mouse embryos requires the activation of Notch signaling, but is independent of the Wnt signaling pathway. We found that genetic inactivation of Sfrp1 and Sfrp2, two postulated Wnt antagonists, perturbs retinal neurogenesis. In retinas from Sfrp1(-/-); Sfrp2(-/-) embryos, Notch signaling was transiently upregulated because Sfrps bind ADAM10 metalloprotease and downregulate its activity, an important step in Notch activation. The proteolysis of other ADAM10 substrates, including APP, was consistently altered in Sfrp mutants, whereas pharmacological inhibition of ADAM10 partially rescued the Sfrp1(-/-); Sfrp2(-/-) retinal phenotype. Conversely, ectopic Sfrp1 expression in the Drosophila wing imaginal disc prevented the expression of Notch targets, and this was restored by the coexpression of Kuzbanian, the Drosophila ADAM10 homolog. Together, these data indicate that Sfrps inhibit the ADAM10 metalloprotease, which might have important implications in pathological events, including cancer and Alzheimer's disease.

Beneficial Effects of a Synbiotic Supplement on Self-perceived Gastrointestinal Well-being and Immunoinflammatory Status of Healthy Adults

Journal of Medicinal Food. Jan-Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21244240

The use of synbiotics as health promoters is still poorly defined, and human intervention studies are scarce. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of a commercialized synbiotic product containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La5, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis Bb-12, Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus, Lactobacillus paracasei ssp. paracasei, Streptococcus thermophilus, and fructooligosaccharides on the self-reported gastrointestinal well-being and the immunoinflammatory status of healthy human subjects. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 20 women and 16 men (25-45 years old) received either three tablets per day of the synbiotic product (2.4 × 10(9) colony-forming units/day) or placebo during 6 weeks. Gastrointestinal symptoms and bowel habits were evaluated through a self-administered questionnaire. In those subjects suffering from any kind of digestive disturbance (mild dyspepsia, flatulence, postprandial bloating, constipation, etc.), improvements in symptoms after product consumption were also evaluated. Blood lymphocyte subsets, phagocytic activity, serum C-reactive protein, ceruloplasmin, and adhesion molecules concentrations were analyzed prior and after treatment. A significant improvement in overall self-reported gastrointestinal symptoms and bowel habit was found in the synbiotic group. A marginal effect of treatment (analysis of variance P = .050) was observed with L-selectin, which showed a significant decrease in the synbiotic group (P = .019). In addition, basal L-selectin levels correlated with final intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 levels (r = 0.468; P = .050), and basal ICAM-1 levels tended to correlate negatively with final L-selectin concentration (r = -0.457; P = .056). None of these correlations was found in the placebo group. The rest of the immunological parameters studied were not modified by the intervention. In conclusion, consumption of the synbiotic product improves self-perceived bowel habits and might facilitate a better profile of adhesion molecules in healthy adults.

Breastfeeding in Infancy is Not Associated with Inflammatory Status in Healthy Adolescents

The Journal of Nutrition. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21248197

It has been suggested that breast-feeding (BF) may be associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood. A low-grade inflammation is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, even in apparently healthy children. The objective of this study was to assess the potential modulating effect of BF on the inflammatory status of healthy adolescents. Information on BF (duration) was obtained from parental records in 484 of 1040 healthy European urban adolescents (56.4% females) that had a blood sample obtained as part of the Healthy Lifestyle in Europe by Nutrition and Adolescence study. Blood serum inflammatory markers were measured, including high sensitivity C-reactive protein, complement factors 3 and 4, ceruloplasmin, adhesion molecules (L-selectin and soluble endothelial selectin, soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, and intercellular adhesion molecule 1), cytokines, TGFβ1, and white blood cells. After univariate analysis, a propensity score, including the potential confounding factors, was computed and used to assess the association between BF and selected inflammatory markers. BF was not significantly associated with any of the selected inflammatory markers after adjustment for gender and propensity score. In our study, BF was not associated with low-grade inflammatory status in healthy adolescents, suggesting that the potential cardiovascular benefits of BF are related to other mechanisms than modulation of inflammation or might become relevant at a later age. Groups at high risk for cardiovascular disease should be a target for further research concerning the effects of BF.

Influenza A H1N1 in HIV-infected Adults

HIV Medicine. Apr, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21255221

HIV-infected adults are considered to be at higher risk for influenza A H1N1 complications but data supporting this belief are lacking. We aimed to compare epidemiological data, clinical characteristics, and outcomes of influenza A H1N1 infection between HIV-infected and -uninfected adults.

Microbial Aetiology of Community-acquired Pneumonia and Its Relation to Severity

Thorax. Apr, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21257985

The distribution of the microbial aetiology and mortality of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) was investigated in relation to the clinical setting and severity scores (pneumonia severity index (PSI) and confusion, blood urea nitrogen, respiratory rate, blood pressure, age (CURB-65)).

The Chimeric Protein Domain III-capsid of Dengue Virus Serotype 2 (DEN-2) Successfully Boosts Neutralizing Antibodies Generated in Monkeys Upon Infection with DEN-2

Clinical and Vaccine Immunology : CVI. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21209159

Use of a heterologous prime-boost strategy based on a combination of nonreplicative immunogens and candidate attenuated virus vaccines against dengue virus in the same schedule is an attractive approach. These combinations may result in a condensed immunization regime for humans, thus reducing the number of doses with attenuated virus and the time spacing. The present work deals with the evaluation of the heterologous prime-boost strategy combining a novel chimeric protein (domain III-capsid) of dengue virus serotype 2 (DEN-2) and the infective homologous virus in the same immunization schedule in monkeys. Primed monkeys received one dose of infective DEN-2 and were then vaccinated with the recombinant protein. We found that animals developed a neutralizing antibody response after the infective dose and were notably boosted with a second dose of the chimeric protein 3 months later. The neutralizing antibodies induced were long lasting, and animals also showed the ability to induce a specific cellular response 6 months after the booster dose. As a conclusion, we can state that the domain III region, when it is properly presented as a fusion protein to the immune system, is able to recall the neutralizing antibody response elicited following homologous virus infection in monkeys. Further prime-boost approaches can be performed in a condensed regime combining the chimeric domain III-capsid protein and candidate live attenuated vaccines against DEN-2.

Excessive Sedentary Time and Low Cardiorespiratory Fitness in European Adolescents: the HELENA Study

Archives of Disease in Childhood. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21220264

The aims of this study were to examine what amount of sedentary time is associated with low cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in adolescents and whether this association is independent of physical activity.

Active Commuting to School and Cognitive Performance in Adolescents: the AVENA Study

Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine. Apr, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21135316

To examine the associations between active commuting to school and cognitive performance in adolescents.

Effects of Hydroxytyrosol-enriched Sunflower Oil Consumption on CVD Risk Factors

The British Journal of Nutrition. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21138606

Inclusion of biophenols in traditional foods transforms them into functional foods that may help to decrease CVD risk. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the consumption of hydroxytyrosol-enriched sunflower oil (HSO) improves certain CVD biomarker values. A total of twenty-two healthy volunteers participated in a cross-over study involving two 3-week periods, separated by a 2-week washout period, in which volunteers consumed 800-1275 μg/d [corrected] of either HSO (45-50 mg/d of hydroxytyrosol) or non-enriched (control) sunflower oil. Total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, arylesterase activity, oxidised LDL and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule (sVCAM-1) levels were measured in the plasma obtained at the beginning and at the end of each treatment period. The HSO group displayed a significantly higher level (P < 0·01) of arylesterase activity and significantly lower levels of oxidised LDL and sVCAM-1 (both P < 0·05) than the control group. These results suggest that HSO may help prevent CVD.

A Limited Sampling Strategy for Estimation of the Area Under the Curve (0 to 8 Hours) of Mycophenolic Acid Administered Three Times Daily to Liver Transplant Recipients

Upsala Journal of Medical Sciences. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21034355

Gastrointestinal side-effects caused by mycophenolic acid (MPA) are frequent in liver transplant recipients, and in these cases a switch from two to three daily doses is usually recommended. However, a limited sampling strategy for the estimation of MPA area under the curve from 0 to 8 hours (AUC(0-8h)) has not been made.

Genotoxic Analysis of Silver Nanoparticles in Drosophila

Nanotoxicology. Sep, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21039182

Health risk assessment of nanomaterials is an emergent field, genotoxicity being an important endpoint to be tested. Since in vivo studies offer many advantages, such as the study of the bioavailability of nanomaterials to sensitive target cells, we propose Drosophila as a useful model for the study of the toxic and genotoxic risks associated with nanoparticle exposure. In this work we have carried out a genotoxic evaluation of silver nanoparticles in Drosophila by using the wing somatic mutation and recombination test. This test is based on the principle that loss of heterozygosis and the corresponding expression of the suitable recessive markers, multiple wing hairs and flare-3, can lead to the formation of mutant clones in larval cells, which are expressed as mutant spots on the wings of adult flies. Silver nanoparticles were supplied to third instar larvae at concentrations ranging from 0.1-10 mM. The results showed that small but significant increases in the frequency of total spots were observed, thus indicating that silver nanoparticles were able to induce genotoxic activity in the wing spot assay of D. melanogaster, mainly via the induction of somatic recombination. These positive results obtained with silver nanoparticles contrast with the negative findings obtained when silver nitrate was tested.

Influenza Pneumonia: a Comparison Between Seasonal Influenza Virus and the H1N1 Pandemic

The European Respiratory Journal : Official Journal of the European Society for Clinical Respiratory Physiology. Jul, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21109555

We compared clinical presentation, complications and outcome in patients with influenza A (H1N1) and seasonal influenza pneumonia. The group of patients with influenza A (H1N1) pneumonia consisted of 75 patients. 52 patients with pneumonia associated with seasonal influenza were included for comparison. Patients with pneumonia associated with novel H1N1 influenza were younger (mean age 39.7 yrs versus 69.6 yrs) and had fewer chronic comorbidities and less alcoholism. Infiltrates were more extensive and frequently interstitial. Respiratory failure was more frequent (those with an arterial oxygen tension/inspiratory oxygen fraction ratio <200 28% versus 12%, p = 0.042), leading to a higher rate of intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mechanical ventilation (29.3% versus 7.7% (p<0.0030) and 18.7% versus 2% (p<0.0045)). Mortality was twice as high in patients with novel H1N1 (12% versus 5.8%; p = 0.238), although this was not significant, and was attributable to pneumonia in most instances (77.8% versus 0%; p = 0.046). Younger age, fewer comorbidities, more extensive radiographic extension and more severe respiratory compromise, and ICU admissions are key features of the clinical presentation of patients with novel H1N1-associated pneumonia compared with seasonal influenza pneumonia.

Influence of HPP Conditions on Selected Beef Quality Attributes and Their Stability During Chilled Storage

Meat Science. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21115227

The aim of this work was to determine the effects of combined pressure and temperature treatments on beef quality attributes after processing and during chilled storage. Beef M. pectoralis profundus samples were pressurised at 400 and 600 MPa at 35, 45 and 55°C and compared with non-treated (NT) and oven cooked samples. High pressure processing (HPP) at higher temperatures (55°C) resulted in lower Warner Bratzler Shear Force (WBSF) and cook loss values than processing at 35°C. Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) values of pressurised samples were lower than cooked samples after processing and throughout refrigerated storage. An increase (p<0.001) in the omega 6/omega 3 (n6/n3) fatty acid ratio was found when pressure-temperature treatments were compared to raw samples, however, oven cooked samples presented the highest n6/n3 ratio among all of the treatments examined. The reported results show that HPP alters meat quality to a lesser extent than conventional cooking, thereby minimising the processing impact.

On/off Electrochemical Switches Based on Quinone-bisketals

Chemical Communications (Cambridge, England). Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21116536

The synthesis and anodic oxidation of a variety of 2,5-diaryl or dialkynylaryl substituted 1,4-dialkoxybenzenes to quinone bisketals is described. The study of the X-ray structures and electrochemical and spectroscopic properties evidenced that these pairs constitute a first approach to the concept of a molecular nanofuse.

Mapping of Tyrosine Hydroxylase in the Alpaca (Lama Pacos) Brainstem and Colocalization with CGRP

Journal of Chemical Neuroanatomy. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21050884

The distribution of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the brainstem of alpaca (Lama pacos) has been analysed using immunohistochemical methods. The following catecholaminergic cell nuclei have been detected: A1, C1, A2, C2 and area postrema in the medulla oblongata; A5, A6d, A7sc and A7d in the pons; as have several mesencephalic groups: A8, A9l, A9m, A9v, A9pc, A10, A10c, A10d and A10dc. This nuclear parcellation differs from that found in rodents, but agrees with the results reported in other members of the Artiodactyla order, such as giraffe or pig, and with the catecholaminergic distribution detected in species of other mammalian orders. Thus, these findings support the hypothesis that the animals included in the same order show the same nuclear complement in the neuromodulatory systems. In addition, it seems that other species share the same catecholaminergic groups as the alpaca, suggesting that a specific nuclear disposition was important and worth maintaining throughout evolution. Moreover, the distribution of TH has been compared with that of CGRP by double immunohistochemistry. Double-labelled neurons were very isolated and observed only in a few catecholaminergic groups: A1 and C2 in the medulla oblongata, A6d, A7sc and A7d in the pons, and A9l in the mesencephalon. However, interaction between TH and CGRP may be possible in more brainstem regions, particularly the area postrema. This interaction may prove important in the regulation of the specific cardiovascular control of alpacas given their morphological characteristics.

[Study of Risk of Eating Disorders in a Representative Sample of Adolescents]

Medicina Clínica. Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21056434

The aim of this study was to estimate the percentage of adolescents with risk eating behaviours for developing an eating disorder (ED), analyzing the differences in gender, age and body mass index (BMI).

Up-regulation of MicroRNA-155 in Macrophages Contributes to Increased Tumor Necrosis Factor {alpha} (TNF{alpha}) Production Via Increased MRNA Half-life in Alcoholic Liver Disease

The Journal of Biological Chemistry. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21062749

Activation of Kupffer cells (KCs) by gut-derived lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Toll-Like Receptors 4 (TLR4)-LPS-mediated increase in TNFα production has a central role in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease. Micro-RNA (miR)-125b, miR-146a, and miR-155 can regulate inflammatory responses to LPS. Here we evaluated the involvement of miRs in alcohol-induced macrophage activation. Chronic alcohol treatment in vitro resulted in a time-dependent increase in miR-155 but not miR-125b or miR-146a levels in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, alcohol pretreatment augmented LPS-induced miR-155 expression in macrophages. We found a linear correlation between alcohol-induced increase in miR-155 and TNFα induction. In a mouse model of alcoholic liver disease, we found a significant increase in both miR-155 levels and TNFα production in isolated KCs when compared with pair-fed controls. The mechanistic role of miR-155 in TNFα regulation was indicated by decreased TNFα levels in alcohol-treated macrophages after inhibition of miR-155 and by increased TNFα production after miR-155 overexpression, respectively. We found that miR-155 affected TNFα mRNA stability because miR-155 inhibition decreased whereas miR-155 overexpression increased TNFα mRNA half-life. Using the NF-κB inhibitors, MG-132 or Bay11-7082, we demonstrated that NF-κB activation mediated the up-regulation of miR-155 by alcohol in KCs. In conclusion, our novel data demonstrate that chronic alcohol consumption increases miR-155 in macrophages via NF-κB and the increased miR-155 contributes to alcohol-induced elevation in TNFα production via increased mRNA stability.

Genotoxic Effects of Two Nickel-compounds in Somatic Cells of Drosophila Melanogaster

Mutation Research. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 21073980

In view of the scarcely available information on the in vivo mutagenic and co-mutagenic activity of nickel, the genotoxic potential of two nickel-compounds, nickel chloride (NiCl(2)) and nickel sulphate (NiSO(4)), was assessed in Drosophila melanogaster by measuring two different genetic endpoints. On the one hand, we used the wing-spot assay, which is based on the principle that the loss of heterozygosity of two suitable recessive markers, multiple wing hairs (mwh) and flare-3 (flr(3)), can lead to the formation of mutant clones in the imaginal disks of larval cells. On the other hand, the in vivo comet assay, which detects single- and double-strand DNA breaks, was also used with larval haemocytes. These cells offer several advantages: they are highly sensitive to genotoxic agents, the sampling and processing methodologies are quite simple and the level of basal DNA damage is relatively low. No significant increases in the frequencies of the three categories of mutant spots (i.e. small single spots, large single spots, and twin spots) were observed in the wing-spot assay; however, NiSO(4) induced significant dose-dependent increases in DNA damage in the comet assay. In addition, the combined treatments with gamma-radiation and NiCl(2) and NiSO(4) showed a slight but significant increase in the frequency of the three categories of mutant spots compared with the frequency induced by gamma-radiation alone, indicating that both nickel compounds have a synergistic interaction. These results support the assumption that both nickel compounds could act as co-mutagens interfering with DNA-repair processes and that the in vivo comet assay is a sensitive and effective method for detecting the DNA damage induced by NiSO(4) in haemocytes of D. melanogaster.

Somatic Mosaicism for Y120X Mutation in the MECP2 Gene Causes Atypical Rett Syndrome in a Male

Brain & Development. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20970936

Rett Syndrome (RS; MIM_312750) is a severe and progressive neurodevelopmental disorder affecting principally females. Mutations in X-Linked MECP2 gene (methyl CpG-binding protein 2; MIM_300005) have been reported as being the major cause of RS. Mutations in this gene have been described as cause of wide spectrum of neurological disorders and mental retardation in males. In some cases, mutations in MECP2 in males produce clinical picture similar to RS. Here we report the identification of the novel truncating mutation Y120X in a 4-year-old child with atypical RS phenotype. Chromosome analysis showed a normal karyotype, and blood DNA and tissue DNA analysis reveal a mosaic for the mutation. Patient's mother DNA analysis showed that this is a de novo mutation, that has never been described before in any female or male case of RS.

A Biotechnological Perspective on the Application of Iron Oxide Magnetic Colloids Modified with Polysaccharides

Biotechnology Advances. Jan-Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20959138

Iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) alone are suitable for a broad spectrum of applications, but the low stability and heterogeneous size distribution in aqueous medium represent major setbacks. These setbacks can however be reduced or diminished through the coating of MNPs with various polymers, especially biopolymers such as polysaccharides. Polysaccharides are biocompatible, non-toxic and renewable; in addition, they possess chemical groups that permit further functionalization of the MNPs. Multifunctional entities can be created through decoration with specific molecules e.g. proteins, peptides, drugs, antibodies, biomimetic ligands, transfection agents, cells, and other ligands. This development opens a whole range of applications for iron oxide nanoparticles. In this review the properties of magnetic structures composed of MNPs and several polysaccharides (Agarose, Alginate, Carrageenan, Chitosan, Dextran, Heparin, Gum Arabic, Pullulan and Starch) will be discussed, in view of their recent and future biomedical and biotechnological applications.

Genotoxic Evaluation of the Non-halogenated Disinfection By-products Nitrosodimethylamine and Nitrosodiethylamine

Journal of Hazardous Materials. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20952128

Disinfection by-products (DBPs) are chemicals that are produced as a result of chlorine being added to water for disinfection. As well as the halogenated DBPs, N-nitrosamines have recently been identified as DBPs, especially when amines and ammonia ions are present in raw water. In this work, the genotoxicity of two nitrosamines, namely nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) and nitrosodiethylamine (NDEA), has been studied in cultured human cells. To evaluate their genotoxic potential two assays were used, the comet assay and the micronucleus test. The comet assay measures the induction of single and double-strand breaks, and also reveals the induced oxidative DNA damage by using endoIII and FPG enzymes. Chromosomal damage was evaluated by means of the cytokinesis-blocked micronucleus test. The results of the comet assay show that both compounds are slightly genotoxic but only at high concentrations, NDEA being more effective than NDMA. Enzyme treatments revealed that only NDEA was able to produce increased levels of oxidized bases, mainly in purine sites. The results obtained in the micronucleus assay, which measures the capacity of the tested agents to induce clastogenic and/or aneugenic effects, are negative for both of the nitrosamines evaluated, either using TK6 cells or human peripheral blood lymphocytes. Taking into account the very high concentrations needed to produce DNA damage, our data suggest a low, if existent, genotoxic risk associated with the presence of these compounds in drinking water.

Adolescent's Physical Activity Levels and Relatives' Physical Activity Engagement and Encouragement: the HELENA Study

European Journal of Public Health. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20935036

The aim of this article is to examine the association between adolescents' physical activity (PA) levels and their relatives' (father, mother, brothers, sisters and best friend) PA engagement and encouragement.

Consumer Acceptance of High Pressure Processed Beef-based Chilled Ready Meals: the Mediating Role of Food-related Lifestyle Factors

Meat Science. Jan, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20926201

The aim of this research was to investigate the effects of high pressure processing (HPP) on consumer acceptance for chilled ready meals manufactured using a low-value beef cut. Three hundred consumers evaluated chilled ready meals subjected to 4 pressure treatments and a non-treated control monadically on a 9-point scale for liking for beef tenderness and juiciness, overall flavour, overall liking, and purchase intent. Data were also collected on consumers' food consumption patterns, their attitudes towards food by means of the reduced food-related lifestyle (FRL) instrument, and socio-demographics. The results indicated that a pressure treatment of 200 MPa was acceptable to most consumers. K-means cluster analysis identified 4 consumer groups with similar preferences, and the optimal pressure treatments acceptable to specific consumer groups were identified for those firms that would wish to target attitudinally differentiated consumer segments.

A Multicomponent Approach to the Synthesis of 1,3-dicarbonylic Compounds

Molecular Diversity. May, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20812028

A general synthesis of 1,3-dicarbonylic compounds using multicomponent reactions of isocyanides is described. The process involves a Passerini three-component condensation of glyoxal derivatives, isocyanides and acetic acid, followed by metal mediated reductive or solvolytic removal of the acid component. Noteworthy, reductive deacetoxylation of Passerini glyoxylamide adducts was successfully achieved using photochemically activated SmI(2). This procedure constitutes a novel convenient method for the direct synthesis of malonic retro-peptidic subunits.

Orthostatic Headache and Bilateral Abducens Palsy Secondary to Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension

The Journal of Headache and Pain. Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20882332

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is a well-documented syndrome characterized typically by a benign, self-limited course. Patients typically present with postural or exertional headaches that can be temporarily relieved by lying in a supine or recumbent position. A 35-year-old Caucasian male suffered orthostatic headache that developed to a bilateral abducens palsy. We ordered relative rest and the patient improved and completely recovered after 3 months. Although SIH is considered as a benign and self limited process it could also be associated with disabling complications. We should be aware of the possible complications and inform our patients. SIH can present with headache and bilateral abducens palsy even when the headache is improving.

Early Metformin Therapy to Delay Menarche and Augment Height in Girls with Precocious Pubarche

Fertility and Sterility. Feb, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20883985

To study the effects of early metformin treatment on menarche, height, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) markers. Low-birthweight (LBW) girls with precocious pubarche (PP) are at risk for an early menarche (<12 years), an adult stature below target level, and PCOS. Hyperinsulinemic insulin resistance is thought to be a key factor.

Proposal of an in Vivo Comet Assay Using Haemocytes of Drosophila Melanogaster

Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis. Mar, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 20740640

This study presents the first application of an in vivo alkaline comet assay using haemocytes of Drosophila melanogaster larvae. These cells, which play a role similar to that of mammalian blood, can be easily obtained and represent an overall exposure of the treated larvae. To validate the assay, we evaluated the response of these cells to three well-known mutagenic agents: ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS), potassium dichromate (PD), and gamma radiation (γ-irradiation). Third-instar Drosophila larvae were exposed to different concentrations of EMS (1, 2, and 4 mM) and PD (0.5, 1, and 2.5 mM) and to different doses of γ-irradiation (2, 4, and 8 Gγ). Subsequently, haemolymph was extracted from the larvae, and haemocytes were isolated by centrifugation and used in the comet assay. Haemocytes exhibited a significant dose-related increase in DNA damage, indicating that these cells are clearly sensitive to the treatments. These results suggest that the proposed in vivo comet test, using larvae haemocytes of D. melanogaster, may be a useful in vivo assay for genotoxicity assessment.

Genetic Profile of Second Primary Tumors and Recurrences in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Head & Neck. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22127891

BACKGROUND: Second primary tumors and recurrences are an important problem in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. The purpose of this study was to determine the genetic changes in tumor samples to improve knowledge of tumor progression. METHODS: Copy number changes of 37 genes were analyzed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) in 36 primary tumors and their corresponding 21 second primary tumors and 15 recurrences. RESULTS: CCND1 and EMS1 amplifications and gain of BCL2L1 were the most common genetic alterations in the primary tumor, second primary tumor, and recurrence samples. Gains of ERBB2 and PTPN1 were associated with recurrences. CONCLUSION: Specific genetic profiles for each group have been found. Similarities between primary tumor and second primary tumor and dissimilarity between primary tumor and recurrence suggest that clinicopathological criteria do not always accurately differentiate these entities. Genetic profiling may aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of these difficult cases. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011.

Dietary Factors and Low-grade Inflammation in Relation to Overweight and Obesity

The British Journal of Nutrition. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22133051

Low-grade inflammation is a characteristic of the obese state, and adipose tissue releases many inflammatory mediators. The source of these mediators within adipose tissue is not clear, but infiltrating macrophages seem to be especially important, although adipocytes themselves play a role. Obese people have higher circulating concentrations of many inflammatory markers than lean people do, and these are believed to play a role in causing insulin resistance and other metabolic disturbances. Blood concentrations of inflammatory markers are lowered following weight loss. In the hours following the consumption of a meal, there is an elevation in the concentrations of inflammatory mediators in the bloodstream, which is exaggerated in obese subjects and in type 2 diabetics. Both high-glucose and high-fat meals may induce postprandial inflammation, and this is exaggerated by a high meal content of advanced glycation end products (AGE) and partly ablated by inclusion of certain antioxidants or antioxidant-containing foods within the meal. Healthy eating patterns are associated with lower circulating concentrations of inflammatory markers. Among the components of a healthy diet, whole grains, vegetables and fruits, and fish are all associated with lower inflammation. AGE are associated with enhanced oxidative stress and inflammation. SFA and trans-MUFA are pro-inflammatory, while PUFA, especially long-chain n-3 PUFA, are anti-inflammatory. Hyperglycaemia induces both postprandial and chronic low-grade inflammation. Vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids decrease the circulating concentrations of inflammatory markers. Potential mechanisms are described and research gaps, which limit our understanding of the interaction between diet and postprandial and chronic low-grade inflammation, are identified.

Conflicting Physiological and Genomic Cardiopulmonary Effects of Recruitment Maneuvers in Murine Acute Lung Injury

American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22135358

Rationale: Low tidal volume ventilation, although promoting atelectasis, is a protective strategy against ventilator-induced lung injury. Deep inflation recruitment maneuvers restore lung volumes but potentially compromise lung parenchymal and vascular function via repetitive over-distention. Our objective was to examine cardiopulmonary physiological and transcriptional consequences of recruitment maneuvers. Methods: C57/BL6 mice challenged with either phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) via aspiration were placed on mechanical ventilation (5 hours) using low tidal volume inflation (8 µL/g) alone (TI) or in combination with intermittent deep inflations (0.75 mL twice per minute, DI). Results: Lung mechanics during TI ventilation significantly deteriorated as assessed by forced oscillation technique and pressure-volume curves. DI mitigated the TI-induced alterations in lung mechanics but induced a significant rise in right ventricle systolic pressures and pulmonary vascular resistances, especially in LPS/TI-challenged animals. In addition, DI exacerbated the LPS-induced genome-wide lung inflammatory transcriptome, with prominent dysregulation of a gene cluster involving vascular processes, as well as increases in cytokine concentrations in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and plasma. Gene ontology analyses of right ventricular tissues expression profiles also identified inflammatory signatures as well as apoptosis and membrane organization ontologies as potential elements in the response to acute pressure overload. Conclusions: Our results, while confirming the improvement in lung mechanics offered by DI, highlight a detrimental impact in sustaining inflammatory response and exacerbating lung vascular dysfunction, events contributing to increases in right ventricle afterload. These novel insights should be integrated into the clinical assessment of the risk/benefit of recruitment maneuvers strategies.

Pulmonary Hemodynamic Responses to Inhaled NO in Chronic Heart Failure Depend on PDE5 G(-1142)T Polymorphism

Pulmonary Circulation. Jul, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22140627

To evaluate the vasoconstrictor component of PH in CHF by investigating the hemodynamic response to inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) and to determine whether this response was influenced by the phosphodiesterase 5 gene (PDE5) G(1142)T polymorphism. CHF patients underwent right heart catheterization at rest and after 20 ppm of iNO and plasma cGMP and PDE5 G(1142)T polymorphism determinations. Of the 72 included CHF patients (mean age, 53±1 years; mean left ventricular ejection fraction, 29±1%; and mean pulmonary artery pressure, 25.5±1.3 mmHg), 54% had ischemic heart disease. Proportions of patients with the TT, GT, and GG genotypes were 39%, 42% and 19% respectively. Baseline hemodynamic characteristics were not significantly different across PDE5 genotype groups, although pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) tended to be lower in the TT group (P=0.09). Baseline plasma cGMP levels were significantly lower in the TT than in the GG and GT patients. With iNO, PVR diminished in TT (-33%) but not GG (-1.6%) or GT (0%) patients (P=0.002); and PCWP increased more in TT than in GT (P<0.05) or GG (P<0.003) patients. The PDE5 G(-1142) polymorphism is therefore a major contributor to the iNO-induced PVR decrease in CHF.

Long-term Bladder Function, Fertility and Sexual Function in Patients with Posterior Urethral Valves Treated in Infancy

Journal of Pediatric Urology. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22154080

OBJECTIVE: To address the issue of sexual function and fertility in PUV patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Of 47 patients (age > 18 years) treated for PUV in infancy 28 were contactable. They were sent a standard questionnaire requesting details on voiding dysfunction symptoms, and experience of erection, orgasm and ejaculation. RESULTS: Of the 28, 16 (mean age 24 years) returned the questionnaire. Voiding frequency ranged from 3 to 10 times per day (mean = 5). Two patients had occasional mild diurnal incontinence but none had symptoms of overactivity. Three patients had a weak urinary stream. Renal function was normal in 9, 4 had a glomerular filtration rate <80 ml/min/1.73 m(2), and 3 had undergone renal transplant. Erections and orgasm were experienced by the 15 patients who responded to these questions, with 4 reporting mild or medium erectile dysfunction and 1, on dialysis, reporting slow ejaculation. Post-masturbation samples of semen and urine were collected from 6 patients. One had an alkaline pH, high percentage of immotile sperm and low sperm count. Another had a high concentration of abnormal forms, and seminal fluid was present in the urine of 3 patients. CONCLUSIONS: In long-term follow-up, 44% of PUV patients develop chronic renal failure or end-stage renal disease, but bladder dysfunction symptoms are infrequent. Sexual function is mostly normal. Total semen counts and motility are compatible with paternity in most patients.

Feature Selection from Nocturnal Oximetry Using Genetic Algorithms to Assist in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Diagnosis

Medical Engineering & Physics. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22154238

Nocturnal pulse oximetry (NPO) has demonstrated to be a powerful tool to help in obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) detection. However, additional analysis is needed to use NPO alone as an alternative to nocturnal polysomnography (NPSG), which is the gold standard for a definitive diagnosis. In the present study, we exhaustively analysed a database of blood oxygen saturation (SpO(2)) recordings (80 OSA-negative and 160 OSA-positive) to obtain further knowledge on the usefulness of NPO. Population set was randomly divided into training and test sets. A feature extraction stage was carried out: 16 features (time and frequency statistics and spectral and nonlinear features) were computed. A genetic algorithm (GA) approach was applied in the feature selection stage. Our methodology achieved 87.5% accuracy (90.6% sensitivity and 81.3% specificity) in the test set using a logistic regression (LR) classifier with a reduced number of complementary features (3 time domain statistics, 1 frequency domain statistic, 1 conventional spectral feature and 1 nonlinear feature) automatically selected by means of GAs. Our results improved diagnostic performance achieved with conventional oximetric indexes commonly used by physicians. We concluded that GAs could be an effective and robust tool to search for essential oximetric features that could enhance NPO in the context of OSA diagnosis.

Corneal Topography from Spectral Optical Coherence Tomography (sOCT)

Biomedical Optics Express. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22162814

We present a method to obtain accurate corneal topography from a spectral optical coherence tomography (sOCT) system. The method includes calibration of the device, compensation of the fan (or field) distortion introduced by the scanning architecture, and image processing analysis for volumetric data extraction, segmentation and fitting. We present examples of three-dimensional (3-D) surface topography measurements on spherical and aspheric lenses, as well as on 10 human corneas in vivo. Results of sOCT surface topography (with and without fan-distortion correction) were compared with non-contact profilometry (taken as reference) on a spherical lens, and with non-contact profilometry and state-of-the art commercial corneal topography instruments on aspheric lenses and on subjects. Corneal elevation maps from all instruments were fitted by quadric surfaces (as well as by tenth-order Zernike polynomials) using custom routines. We found that the discrepancy in the estimated radius of curvature from nominal values in artificial corneas decreased from 4.6% (without fan distortion correction) to 1.6% (after fan distortion correction), and the difference in the asphericity decreased from 130% to 5%. In human corneas, the estimated corneal radius of curvature was not statistically significantly different across instruments. However, a Bland-Altman analysis showed consistent differences in the estimated asphericity and corneal shape between sOCT topographies without fan distortion correction and the rest of the measurements.

Adaptive Road Crack Detection System by Pavement Classification

Sensors (Basel, Switzerland). 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22163717

This paper presents a road distress detection system involving the phases needed to properly deal with fully automatic road distress assessment. A vehicle equipped with line scan cameras, laser illumination and acquisition HW-SW is used to storage the digital images that will be further processed to identify road cracks. Pre-processing is firstly carried out to both smooth the texture and enhance the linear features. Non-crack features detection is then applied to mask areas of the images with joints, sealed cracks and white painting, that usually generate false positive cracking. A seed-based approach is proposed to deal with road crack detection, combining Multiple Directional Non-Minimum Suppression (MDNMS) with a symmetry check. Seeds are linked by computing the paths with the lowest cost that meet the symmetry restrictions. The whole detection process involves the use of several parameters. A correct setting becomes essential to get optimal results without manual intervention. A fully automatic approach by means of a linear SVM-based classifier ensemble able to distinguish between up to 10 different types of pavement that appear in the Spanish roads is proposed. The optimal feature vector includes different texture-based features. The parameters are then tuned depending on the output provided by the classifier. Regarding non-crack features detection, results show that the introduction of such module reduces the impact of false positives due to non-crack features up to a factor of 2. In addition, the observed performance of the crack detection system is significantly boosted by adapting the parameters to the type of pavement.

Note: Phase-locked Loop with a Voltage Controlled Oscillator Based on a Liquid Crystal Cell As Variable Capacitance

The Review of Scientific Instruments. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22225256

A phase-locked loop is demonstrated using a twisted-nematic liquid crystal cell as a capacitance that can be varied as a function of applied voltage. The system is formed by a phase detector, a low-pass filter, as well as a voltage controlled oscillator including such variable capacitance. A theoretical study is proposed and experimentally validated. Capture and locked ranges of hundreds of kHz have been obtained for the configuration used in this circuit. An application as frequency demodulator using a practical implementation of this circuit has been demonstrated.

Analysis of Nocturnal Oxygen Saturation Recordings Using Kernel Entropy to Assist in Sleep Apnea-hypopnea Diagnosis

Conference Proceedings : ... Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society. Conference. Aug, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22254664

In this study, a new entropy measure known as kernel entropy (KerEnt), which quantifies the irregularity in a series, was applied to nocturnal oxygen saturation (SaO(2)) recordings. A total of 96 subjects suspected of suffering from sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS) took part in the study: 32 SAHS-negative and 64 SAHS-positive subjects. Their SaO(2) signals were separately processed by means of KerEnt. Our results show that a higher degree of irregularity is associated to SAHS-positive subjects. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between the KerEnt values of SAHS-negative and SAHS-positive groups. The diagnostic utility of this parameter was studied by means of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. A classification accuracy of 81.25% (81.25% sensitivity and 81.25% specificity) was achieved. Repeated apneas during sleep increase irregularity in SaO(2) data. This effect can be measured by KerEnt in order to detect SAHS. This non-linear measure can provide useful information for the development of alternative diagnostic techniques in order to reduce the demand for conventional polysomnography (PSG).

Crowding Induces Differences in the Diffusion of Thermophilic and Mesophilic Proteins: a New Look at Neutron Scattering Results

Biophysical Journal. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22261067

The dynamical basis underlying the increased thermal stability of thermophilic proteins remains uncertain. Here, we challenge the new paradigm established by neutron scattering experiments in solution, in which the adaptation of thermophilic proteins to high temperatures lies in the lower sensitivity of their flexibility to temperature changes. By means of a combination of molecular dynamics and Brownian dynamics simulations, we report a reinterpretation of those experiments and show evidence that under crowding conditions, such as in vivo, thermophilic and homolog mesophilic proteins have diffusional properties with different thermal behavior.

Objectively-measured and Self-reported Physical Activity and Fitness in Relation to Inflammatory Markers in European Adolescents: The HELENA Study

Atherosclerosis. Dec, 2011  |  Pubmed ID: 22265274

OBJECTIVE: Atherogenesis involves an inflammatory process that occurs early in life even though clinical symptoms are not observed until adulthood. Two important protective factors for low-grade inflammation may be physical activity (PA) and fitness. We examined the independent associations of objective and subjective measurements of PA and fitness with low-grade inflammation in European adolescents. METHODS: A total of 1045 adolescents, aged from 12.5 to 17.5 years old from 10 European cities, were selected from the HELENA-Cross-Sectional Study. Objectively-measured and self-reported PA variables were obtained by accelerometry and the International PA Questionnaire for Adolescents, respectively. Overall, cardiorespiratory, muscular and motor fitness variables were assessed by standardized field-based fitness tests and the International Fitness Scale. C-reactive protein (CRP), complement factors 3 (C3) and 4 (C4), interleukin-6 and TNF-α inflammatory markers were measured. RESULTS: Objectively-measured vigorous PA was inversely associated with C3 (β=-0.094, P=0.021) but it did not remain significant after any objective fitness indicator was included in the model. Other objectively measured or self-reported assessments of PA were not significantly associated with inflammatory markers. All objective measures of fitness were inversely associated with CRP, C3 and C4, whereas only self-reported motor fitness remained significantly associated with C3, C4 and TNF-α. All these observations were independent of age, sex, city and body mass index or waist circumference. CONCLUSION: High PA in adolescence may play an indirect role on lessening low-grade inflammation through improvements in fitness.

Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Outpatients: Etiology and Outcomes

The European Respiratory Journal : Official Journal of the European Society for Clinical Respiratory Physiology. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22267760

The purpose of this study was to establish the microbial etiology and outcomes of patients with community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) treated as outpatients after presenting to a hospital emergency care unit.Prospective observational study carried out in the Hospital Clinic of Barcelona Spain. All consecutive cases of CAP treated as outpatients were included.568 adult outpatients with CAP were studied, mean ±SD age of 47.2±17.6 years; 110 (19.4%) were aged ≥65 years. Etiologic diagnoses were established in 188 cases (33.1%). Streptococcus pneumoniae was the most frequent pathogen followed by Mycoplasma pneumoniae and respiratory viruses. Legionella was detected in 2.3% (n=13). More than one causative agent was found in 17 (9.0%) patients.The mortality was low (3; 0.5%), and other adverse events were rare (complications (30, 5.3%), readmission (13, 2.3%), treatment failure (13, 2.3%). Complications were mostly related to pleural effusion and empyema and readmissions and treatment failures to comorbidities.Outpatients with CAP have a characteristic microbial pattern. Regular anti-pneumococcal coverage remains mandatory. Treatment failures and readmissions are rare and may be reduced by increased attention to patients requiring short term observation in the emergency care unit and in the presence of pleural effusion and comorbidities.

The Use of Design-based Stereology to Evaluate Volumes and Numbers in the Liver: a Review with Practical Guidelines

Journal of Anatomy. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22296163

Stereology offers a number of tools for the analysis of sections in microscopy (which usually provide only two-dimensional information) for the purpose of estimating geometric quantities, such as volume, surface area, length or number of particles (cells or other structures). The use of these tools enables recovery of the three-dimensional information that is inherent in biological tissues. This review uses the liver as a paradigm for summarizing the most commonly used state-of-the-art methods for quantitation in design-based stereology. Because it is often relevant to distinguish hyperplasia and hypertrophy in liver responses, we also focus on potential pitfalls in the sampling and processing of liver specimens for stereological purposes, and assess the existing methods for volume and number estimation. With respect to volume, we considered whole liver volume (V), volume density (V(V) ) and so-called local volumes, including the number-weighted volume () and the volume-weighted volume (). For number, we considered the total number (N) and the numerical density (N(V) ). If correctly applied, current stereological methods guarantee that no bias is introduced in the estimates, which will be therefore accurate; additionally, methods can be tuned for obtaining precise quantitative estimates that can reveal subtle changes in the volume or number of selected hepatic cells. These methods have already detailed the effects of some substances and specific diets on the liver, and should be routinely included in the toolbox of liver research.

Clinical and Epidemiological Characteristics of Adult Patients Hospitalized for Erysipelas and Cellulitis

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases : Official Publication of the European Society of Clinical Microbiology. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22298240

The purpose of this investigation was to analyze the clinical and epidemiological aspects of all cases of erysipelas and infectious cellulitis admitted to a tertiary hospital during a period of five years. All patients admitted with the main diagnosis of erysipelas or cellulitis to the Department of Dermatology of the author's institution from January 2005 to May 2010 were included. Seventy patients were identified and their medical records were retrospectively reviewed so as to record the epidemiological and clinical data. Univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to analyze variables that predicted longer length of stay. The frequency of cellulitis in the lower limbs was higher in men and patients older than 65 years. Moderate/severe cellulitis in patients with basal comorbidity followed by a poor response to oral antibiotic therapy for 48 h were the most common reasons for admission. At arrival, four patients had abscessed areas. Fourteen patients developed local complications and 18 cases developed general in-hospital complications. Most patients improved or were healed with intravenous amoxicillin-clavulanate 1 g-200 mg/8 h. Intravenous amoxicillin-clavulanate 1 g-200 mg/8 h may be a good choice for empiric treatment in our setting. The development of in-hospital complications and the need for changing empiric antibiotic therapy were significant and independent variables associated with longer length of stay.

Community Acquired Pneumonia: Severity Scores As an Adjunct to Clinical Judgement

The European Respiratory Journal : Official Journal of the European Society for Clinical Respiratory Physiology. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22298621

Using Complementary Mass Spectrometric Approaches for the Determination of Methylprednisolone Metabolites in Human Urine

Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry : RCM. Mar, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22302494

The metabolism of methylprednisolone is revisited in order to find new metabolites that could be important for distinguishing between different routes of administration. Recently developed liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) strategies for the detection of corticosteroid metabolites have been applied to the study of methylprednisolone metabolism.

Leghemoglobin Green Derivatives with Nitrated Hemes Evidence Production of Highly Reactive Nitrogen Species During Aging of Legume Nodules

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22308405

Globins constitute a superfamily of proteins widespread in all kingdoms of life, where they fulfill multiple functions, such as efficient O(2) transport and modulation of nitric oxide bioactivity. In plants, the most abundant Hbs are the symbiotic leghemoglobins (Lbs) that scavenge O(2) and facilitate its diffusion to the N(2)-fixing bacteroids in nodules. The biosynthesis of Lbs during nodule formation has been studied in detail, whereas little is known about the green derivatives of Lbs generated during nodule senescence. Here we characterize modified forms of Lbs, termed Lba(m), Lbc(m), and Lbd(m), of soybean nodules. These green Lbs have identical globins to the parent red Lbs but their hemes are nitrated. By combining UV-visible, MS, NMR, and resonance Raman spectroscopies with reconstitution experiments of the apoprotein with protoheme or mesoheme, we show that the nitro group is on the 4-vinyl. In vitro nitration of Lba with excess nitrite produced several isomers of nitrated heme, one of which is identical to those found in vivo. The use of antioxidants, metal chelators, and heme ligands reveals that nitration is contingent upon the binding of nitrite to heme Fe, and that the reactive nitrogen species involved derives from nitrous acid and is most probably the nitronium cation. The identification of these green Lbs provides conclusive evidence that highly oxidizing and nitrating species are produced in nodules leading to nitrosative stress. These findings are consistent with a previous report showing that the modified Lbs are more abundant in senescing nodules and have aberrant O(2) binding.

Influence of Milk-Feeding Type and Genetic Risk of Developing Coeliac Disease on Intestinal Microbiota of Infants: The PROFICEL Study

PloS One. 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22319588

Interactions between environmental factors and predisposing genes could be involved in the development of coeliac disease (CD). This study has assessed whether milk-feeding type and HLA-genotype influence the intestinal microbiota composition of infants with a family history of CD. The study included 164 healthy newborns, with at least one first-degree relative with CD, classified according to their HLA-DQ genotype by PCR-SSP DQB1 and DQA1 typing. Faecal microbiota was analysed by quantitative PCR at 7 days, and at 1 and 4 months of age. Significant interactions between milk-feeding type and HLA-DQ genotype on bacterial numbers were not detected by applying a linear mixed-model analysis for repeated measures. In the whole population, breast-feeding promoted colonization of C. leptum group, B. longum and B. breve, while formula-feeding promoted that of Bacteroides fragilis group, C. coccoides-E. rectale group, E. coli and B. lactis. Moreover, increased numbers of B. fragilis group and Staphylococcus spp., and reduced numbers of Bifidobacterium spp. and B. longum were detected in infants with increased genetic risk of developing CD. Analyses within subgroups of either breast-fed or formula-fed infants indicated that in both cases increased risk of CD was associated with lower numbers of B. longum and/or Bifidobacterium spp. In addition, in breast-fed infants the increased genetic risk of developing CD was associated with increased C. leptum group numbers, while in formula-fed infants it was associated with increased Staphylococcus and B. fragilis group numbers. Overall, milk-feeding type in conjunction with HLA-DQ genotype play a role in establishing infants' gut microbiota; moreover, breast-feeding reduced the genotype-related differences in microbiota composition, which could partly explain the protective role attributed to breast milk in this disorder.

Deletion of MP/ARF5 Domains III and IV Reveals a Requirement for Aux/IAA Regulation in Arabidopsis Leaf Vascular Patterning

The New Phytologist. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22320407

• Combinatorial interactions of AUXIN RESPONSE FACTORs (ARFs) and auxin/indole acetic acid (Aux/IAA) proteins through their common domains III and IV regulate auxin responses, but insight into the functions of individual proteins is still limited. • As a new tool to explore this regulatory network, we generated a gain-of-function ARF genotype by eliminating domains III and IV from the functionally well-characterized ARF MONOPTEROS(MP)/ARF5. • This truncated version of MP, termed MPΔ, conferred complementing MP activity, but also displayed a number of semi-dominant traits affecting auxin signaling and organ patterning. In MPΔ, the expression levels of many auxin-inducible genes, as well as rooting properties and vascular tissue abundance, were enhanced. Lateral organs were narrow, pointed and filled with parallel veins. This effect was epistatic over the vascular hypotrophy imposed by certain Aux/IAA mutations. Further, in MPΔ leaves, failure to turn off the procambium-selecting gene PIN1 led to the early establishment of oversized central procambial domains and very limited subsequent lateral growth of the leaf lamina. • We conclude that MPΔ can selectively uncouple a single ARF from regulation by Aux/IAA proteins and can be used as a genetic tool to probe auxin pathways and explore leaf development.

Mortality and Long Term Survival Prognostic Factors of Patients with Systemic Autoimmune Diseases Admitted to an Intensive Care Unit: a Retrospective Study

Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22338619

OBJECTIVES: To determine mortality and long-term survival factors in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases (SAD) admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). METHODS: Retrospective observational study including all consecutive patients with a diagnosis of any systemic autoimmune disease admitted to the medical ICU in a tertiary hospital between 1999 and 2007. Factors associated with reduced survival were identified by means of log rank test and backward stepwise Cox regression. RESULTS: Thirty-seven patients (26 females) were included with median age being 44.3 years (interquartilic range [IQR]: 31.3). Sixteen (43.2%) patients had systemic lupus erythematosus, 9 (24.3%) had systemic vasculitis, 4 (10.8%) had systemic sclerosis and 4 (10.8%) had primary antiphospholipid syndrome. The main reason for ICU admission was autoimmune disease flare-up in 20 (54.0%) patients, followed by infections in 12 (32.4%). Median APACHE II at admission was 17 (IQR 7). At the end of follow-up, 15 (40.5%) patients died, 10 (27%) during hospitalisation (7 in the ICU) and 5 after hospital discharge. Factors associated with reduced long-term survival were: APACHE II score ≥18 (HR 6.02, 95% CI 1.76-20.62), age <45 years (HR 6.54, 95% CI 1.84-23.29), presence of any previous chronic disease (HR 18.20, 95% CI 3.72-88.96), and increase of corticosteroid therapy during ICU stay (HR 22.87, 95% CI 4.31-121.30). CONCLUSIONS: The long-term survival of patients with systemic autoimmune diseases admitted to the ICU was related with age, higher APACHE II score, previous chronic diseases, and an increase in corticosteroids dose when comparing with previous ICU admissions.

Anticancer Activity and Anti-inflammatory Studies of 5-Aryl-1,4-benzodiazepine Derivatives

Anti-cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22263787

A series of 5-aryl-1,4-benzodiazepines with chloro- or fluoro-substituents in the second ring have been synthesized and their anti-inflammatory, myeloperoxidase and anticancer properties studied. The synthesized compounds showed potential anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, which were enhanced in the presence of a chloro-substituent in the second ring of the 5-aryl-1,4-benzodiazepine.

[Relationship Between Procalcitonin Serum Levels and Complications and Outcome of Patients with Hematological Malignancy Admitted to Intensive Care Unit.]

Medicina Clinica. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22257606

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Patients with hematological neoplasms transferred to an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for a life-threatening complication have a poor outcome. In these patients, it is crucial to identify clinical and biologic parameters with potential prognostic significance. This study prospectively evaluated the usefulness of serum procalcitonin (PCT) levels as a predictor of complications (infectious or not) and outcome in these patients. PATIENTS AND METHOD: One hundred patients with hematological malignancy were admitted to the ICU from October 2004 until August 2009. In 59 of them serum PCT levels were daily measured from the ICU admission until a maximum period of 10 consecutive days. RESULTS: Hematological diseases were acute leukemia (n=30), lymphoma and other lymphoproliferative disorders (n=18), multiple myeloma (n=7) and other (n=4). Twenty-five patients (42%) had received hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Thirty-seven patients (63%) presented neutropenia. Those patients who could not be discharged alive from the ICU presented higher PCT levels on days 1, 2 and 3. PCT levels were significantly higher in those patients with neutropenia or septic shock or other causes of hemodynamic instability. The presence of a microbiologically documented infection, respiratory failure or the need of mechanical ventilation support did not significantly affect PCT levels in this study. CONCLUSIONS: Early serum PCT levels measurement might be useful for predicting mortality in patients with hematological malignancy requiring advanced life support.

Characterization of Potential Elastase Inhibitor-peptides Regulated by a Molecular Switch for Wound Dressings Applications

Enzyme and Microbial Technology. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22226196

Elastase plays an important role in wound healing process, degrading damaged tissue and allowing complete tissue recovery. The levels of human neutrophil elastase (HNE) are usually controlled by endogenous inhibitors. However, in the presence of high levels of elastase, like the ones present in chronic wounds, the inhibitors cannot overcome this overproduction and the enzyme starts to degrade the surrounding healthy tissue. In this work we report the development of a molecular switch to control the elastase activity in the exudate of non-healing chronic wounds. A peptide library was generated and screened in a microarray format for protein kinase-mediated phosphorylation. Two peptides were identified as casein kinase Iδ (CKI) substrates: KRCCPDTCGIKCL and its analogous peptide KRMMPDTMGIKML, with cysteine residues replaced by methionine residues. These peptides were studied in solution, both in the phosphorylated and non-phosphorylated forms as potential inhibitors for elastase. The obtained results show that the reversible process of phosphorylation/dephosphorylation results in differential inhibitory activity of the peptides. Thus the reversible process of phosphorylation/dephosphorylation can be used as a kind of molecular switch to control elastase activity. Degradation studies reveal that both the inhibitor-peptides and CKI are degraded by elastase. These results envisage the safe utilisation of these inhibitor-peptides together with CKI in the formulation of wound dressings.

Abundance, Dynamics, and Biogeographic Distribution of Seven Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Dioxygenase Gene Variants in Coastal Sediments of Patagonia

Applied and Environmental Microbiology. Mar, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22226948

Novel polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon dioxygenase gene variants were present in abundances similar to or higher than those of phnA1 from Cycloclasticus spp. at a chronically polluted subantarctic coastal marine environment in Patagonia. These novel gene variants were detected over a 6-year time span and were also present in sediments from temperate Patagonian sites.

Val247Leu Beta2-glycoprotein-I Allelic Variant is Associated with Antiphospholipid Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Autoimmunity Reviews. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22246055

INTRODUCTION: Previous studies have suggested that the possession of the Val/Val genotype of the Val247Leu polymorphism of the β(2)-glycoproteinI (β(2)-GPI) gene may be associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS), and, among patients with APS, with the production of anti-β(2)-GPI antibodies or the development of thrombosis. Given the controversial results reported, the aim of this work is to combine previous findings by means of a systematic review and a meta-analysis. METHODS: We retrieved studies analyzing the genotype of the above-mentioned polymorphism among patients with APS by means of electronic database search. A meta-analysis was conducted in a random effects model and calculations of odds ratio (OR) and confidence intervals (CI) were done. Sensitivity analysis and tests for heterogeneity of the results were performed. RESULTS: Eight previous studies analyzed the association of APS, anti-β(2)-GPI antibodies and/or thrombosis with the Val247Leu polymorphism. After meta-analysis, patients with APS had a significantly higher prevalence of the Val/Val genotype of this genetic variant when compared with controls (OR=2.04; 95% CI: 1.12, 3.73; P=0.02). Among patients with APS, those with anti-β(2)-GPI antibodies had a higher prevalence of this genotype (OR=1.73; 95% CI: 1.04, 2.87; P=0.03). No significant results were found for the presence of arterial or venous thrombosis. CONCLUSIONS: Val/Val genotype of β(2)-GPI gene is associated with a significant excess risk to suffer from APS and, among patients with APS, to have anti-β(2)-GPI antibodies. No definite conclusions can be made regarding the association of this polymorphism with thrombosis among APS patients.

Recent Developments in MS for Small Molecules: Application to Human Doping Control Analysis

Bioanalysis. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22250802

Recent developments in MS for the detection of small molecules in the context of doping control analysis are reviewed. Doping control analysis is evolving together with MS, which is the technique of choice in order to accomplish the analytical requirements in this field. Since these analytical requirements for the detection of a doping agent depend on the substance, in the first section we review the different scenarios. The commonly established approaches, together with their achievements and drawbacks are described. New developments in hyphenated MS techniques (both GC-MS/MS and LC-MS/MS) concerning interfaces and analyzers are mentioned. The use (or potential use) of these developments in order to minimize the limitations of the commonly established approaches in the doping control field is discussed. Finally, a brief discussion about trends and remaining limitations is presented.

Acute Renal Insufficiency During Telavancin Therapy in Clinical Practice

The Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. Mar, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22174040

To describe the tolerance to long-term telavancin therapy among inpatients as it relates to nephrotoxicity.

Delivery Modulation in Silica Mesoporous Supports Via Alkyl Chain Pore Outlet Decoration

Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22181346

This article focuses on the study of the release rate in a family of modified silica mesoporous supports. A collection of solids containing ethyl, butyl, hexyl, octyl, decyl, octadecyl, docosyl, and triacontyl groups anchored on the pore outlets of mesoporous MCM-41 has been prepared and characterized. Controlled release from pore voids has been studied through the delivery of the dye complex tris(2,2'-bipyridyl)ruthenium(II). Delivery rates were found to be dependent on the alkyl chain length anchored on the pore outlets of the mesoporous scaffolding. Moreover, release rates follow a Higuchi diffusion model, and Higuchi constants for the different hybrid solids have been calculated. A decrease of the Higuchi constants was observed as the alkyl chain used to tune the release profile is longer, confirming the effect that the different alkyl chains anchored into the pore mouths exerted on the delivery of the cargo. Furthermore, to better understand the relation between pore outlets decoration and release rate, studies using molecular dynamics simulations employing force-field methods have been carried out. A good agreement between the calculations and the experimental observations was observed.

The Vesicular SNARE Synaptobrevin is Required for Semaphorin 3A Axonal Repulsion

The Journal of Cell Biology. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22213797

Attractive and repulsive molecules such as Semaphorins (Sema) trigger rapid responses that control the navigation of axonal growth cones. The role of vesicular traffic in axonal guidance is still largely unknown. The exocytic vesicular soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive fusion protein attachment protein receptor (SNARE) Synaptobrevin 2 (Syb2) is known for mediating neurotransmitter release in mature neurons, but its potential role in axonal guidance remains elusive. Here we show that Syb2 is required for Sema3A-dependent repulsion but not Sema3C-dependent attraction in cultured neurons and in the mouse brain. Syb2 associated with Neuropilin 1 and Plexin A1, two essential components of the Sema3A receptor, via its juxtatransmembrane domain. Sema3A receptor and Syb2 colocalize in endosomal membranes. Moreover, upon Sema3A treatment, Syb2-deficient neurons failed to collapse and transport Plexin A1 to cell bodies. Reconstitution of Sema3A receptor in nonneuronal cells revealed that Sema3A further inhibited the exocytosis of Syb2. Therefore, Sema3A-mediated signaling and axonal repulsion require Syb2-dependent vesicular traffic.

Pandemic Influenza A(H1N1) Outbreak Among a Group of Medical Students Who Traveled to the Dominican Republic

Journal of Travel Medicine. Jan-Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22221806

From the beginning of the influenza pandemic until the time the outbreak described here was detected, 77,201 cases of pandemic influenza A(H1N1) with 332 deaths had been reported worldwide, mostly in the United States and Mexico. All of the cases reported in Spain until then had a recent history of travel to Mexico, the Dominican Republic, or Chile. We describe an outbreak of influenza among medical students who traveled from Spain to the Dominican Republic in June 2009.

Zinc: Dietary Intake and Impact of Supplementation on Immune Function in Elderly

Age (Dordrecht, Netherlands). Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22222917

The diet in the elderly does not provide a sufficient level of nutrients needed to maintain an adequate healthy status leading to micronutrient deficiencies and impaired immune response with subsequent development of degenerative diseases. Nutrient "zinc" is a relevant micronutrient involved in maintaining a good integrity of many body homeostatic mechanisms, including immune efficiency, owing to its requirement for the biological activity of many enzymes, proteins and for cellular proliferation and genomic stability. Old people aged 60-65 years and older have zinc intakes below 50% of the recommended daily allowance on a given day. Many causes can be involved: among them, altered intestinal absorption, inadequate mastication, psychosocial factors, drugs interactions, altered subcellular processes (zinc transporters (Zip and ZnT family), metallothioneins, divalent metal transporter-1). Zinc supplementation may remodel the immune alterations in elderly leading to healthy ageing. Several zinc trials have been carried out with contradictory data, perhaps due to incorrect choice of an effective zinc supplementation in old subjects showing subsequent zinc toxic effects on immunity. Old subjects with specific IL-6 polymorphism (GG allele carriers; named C-) are more prone for zinc supplementation than the entire old population, in whom correct dietary habits with foods containing zinc (Mediterranean diet) may be sufficient in restoring zinc deficiency and impaired immune response. We summarise the main causes of low zinc dietary intake in elderly reporting an update on the impact of zinc supplementation upon the immune response also on the basis of individual IL-6 polymorphism.

Infrared (810-nm) Low-level Laser Therapy on Rat Experimental Knee Inflammation

Lasers in Medical Science. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 21484455

Arthritis of the knee is the most common type of joint inflammatory disorder and it is associated with pain and inflammation of the joint capsule. Few studies address the effects of the 810-nm laser in such conditions. Here we investigated the effects of low-level laser therapy (LLLT; infrared, 810-nm) in experimentally induced rat knee inflammation. Thirty male Wistar rats (230-250 g) were anesthetized and injected with carrageenan by an intra-articular route. After 6 and 12 h, all animals were killed by CO(2) inhalation and the articular cavity was washed for cellular and biochemical analysis. Articular tissue was carefully removed for real-time PCR analysis in order to evaluate COX-1 and COX-2 expression. LLLT was able to significantly inhibit the total number of leukocytes, as well as the myeloperoxidase activity with 1, 3, and 6 J (Joules) of energy. This result was corroborated by cell counting showing the reduction of polymorphonuclear cells at the inflammatory site. Vascular extravasation was significantly inhibited at the higher dose of energy of 10 J. Both COX-1 and 2 gene expression were significantly enhanced by laser irradiation while PGE(2) production was inhibited. Low-level laser therapy operating at 810 nm markedly reduced inflammatory signs of inflammation but increased COX-1 and 2 gene expression. Further studies are necessary to investigate the possible production of antiinflammatory mediators by COX enzymes induced by laser irradiation in knee inflammation.

Sedentary Behaviors and Emerging Cardiometabolic Biomarkers in Adolescents

The Journal of Pediatrics. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 21839464

To examine the associations of objectively measured sedentary time and television (TV) viewing time with emerging inflammatory and endothelial function markers in adolescents.

Sensitivity of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae to the Cell-penetrating Antifungal Peptide PAF26 Correlates with Endogenous Nitric Oxide (NO) Production

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22120633

PAF26 is a synthetic fungicidal hexapeptide with cell-penetration properties and non-lytic mode of action. We demonstrate herein the endogenous accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO) in the model fungus Saccharomyces cerevisiae treated with PAF26. However, the S. cerevisiae deletion mutant of YAP1 - the major inductor of defense to oxidative stress - did not show high sensitivity to PAF26 but rather increased resistance, and its ROS accumulation did not differ from that of the parental strain. Cross-protection experiments suggest that the oxidant H(2)O(2) and PAF26 kill yeast through different pathways. Overall, the data indicate that ROS are not the primary antifungal mechanism of the peptide. On the contrary, the PAF26-induced intracellular production of NO was blocked in two distinct resistant mutants: the above mentioned Δyap1, which had the induction of NO disrupted, and the previously reported Δarg1 from the biosynthetic pathway of arginine, which has reduced basal NO levels. The NO synthase inhibitor l-NAME partially restored yeast growth in the presence of PAF26. These findings correlate antifungal activity of PAF26 with NO production and provide a plausible explanation for the resistance phenotype of Δarg1 through its involvement in NO biosynthesis.

Cannabinoid Receptor 1 Gene is Associated with Alcohol Dependence

Alcoholism, Clinical and Experimental Research. Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22085192

Background:  Alcohol dependence (AD) vulnerability is determined by a complex array of genetic factors. Given the potential role of endocannabinoid system in AD, polymorphisms within cannabinoid receptor 1 gene (CNR1) have been potentially associated with susceptibility to this disease. We thus aimed to examine the relationship between 3 allelic variants of CNR1 (rs6454674, rs1049353, and rs806368) and AD. Methods:  Genotyping of the aforementioned polymorphisms was carried out by PCR in 298 male alcoholics (187 of them with AD) and 155 healthy controls. Single-marker, haplotype, and interaction analysis were performed to analyze the influence of CNR1 gene on AD susceptibility. Results:  We found an association between CNR1 gene and AD after haplotype analysis. Alcoholic patients with TGT haplotype (corresponding to rs6454674-rs1049353-rs806368 polymorphisms in this order) were less prone to have AD (p = 0.017). Besides, alcoholics with a G/T substitution of the first marker (GGT haplotype) or a C/T substitution of the third marker (TGC haplotype) were more likely to develop AD (p = 0.006 and 0.004, respectively) and an interaction was found between the G allele of rs6454674 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and the C allele of rs806368 SNP (p = 0.009). Conclusions:  Our findings support previously reported associations of CNR1 with dependence to alcohol and other substances and emphasizes the relevance of endocannabinoid system in AD.

Automated Prediction of the Apnea-hypopnea Index from Nocturnal Oximetry Recordings

IEEE Transactions on Bio-medical Engineering. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 21926015

Nocturnal polysomnography (PSG) is the gold-standard for sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (SAHS) diagnosis. It provides the value of the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which is used to evaluate SAHS severity. However, PSG is costly, complex, and time-consuming. We present a novel approach for automatic estimation of the AHI from nocturnal oxygen saturation (SaO(2)) recordings and the results of an assessment study designed to characterize its performance. A set of 240 SaO(2) signals was available for the assessment study. The data were divided into training (96 signals) and test (144 signals) sets for model optimization and validation, respectively. Fourteen time-domain and frequency-domain features were used to quantify the effect of SAHS on SaO(2) recordings. Regression analysis was performed to estimate the functional relationship between the extracted features and the AHI. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural networks were evaluated. The MLP algorithm achieved the highest performance with an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.91. The proposed MLP-based method could be used as an accurate and cost-effective procedure for SAHS diagnosis in the absence of PSG.

Optical Chemosensors and Reagents to Detect Explosives

Chemical Society Reviews. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 21947358

This critical review is focused on examples reported from 1947 to 2010 related to the design of chromo-fluorogenic chemosensors and reagents for explosives (141 references).

Infrared (810 Nm) Low-level Laser Therapy in Experimental Model of Strain-induced Skeletal Muscle Injury in Rats: Effects on Functional Outcomes

Photochemistry and Photobiology. Jan-Feb, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 22053933

Muscle strains are among the most prevalent causes for athletes' absence from sport activities. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has recently emerged as a potential contender to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in muscle strain treatment. In this work we investigated effects of LLLT and diclofenac on functional outcomes in the acute stage after muscle strain injury in rats. Muscle strain was induced by overloading the tibialis anterior muscle of rats during anesthesia. The injured groups received either no treatment, or a single treatment with diclofenac 30 min prior to injury, or LLLT (810 nm, 100 mW) with doses of 1, 3, 6 or 9 J, at 1 h after injury. Functional outcome measures included a walking index and assessment of electrically induced muscle performance. All treatments (except 9 J LLLT) significantly improved the walking index 12 h postinjury compared with the untreated group. The 3 J group also showed a significantly better walking index than the drug group. All treatments significantly improved muscle performance at 6 and 12 h. LLLT dose of 3 J was as effective as the pharmacological agent in improving functional outcomes in the early phase after a muscle strain injury in rats.

Fluorescence Detection by Intensity Change Based Sensors: a Theoretical Model

Journal of Fluorescence. Jan, 2012  |  Pubmed ID: 21912921

According to Fluorescence Detection by Intensity Changes (FDIC) the fluorescence intensity of many fluorophores depends on the non-covalent (specific and/or non-specific) interactions these fluorophores would be able to establish with the solvent and, more interestingly, with other surrounding molecules. This latter effect is the basis of FDIC for analytical purposes. In this paper, a preliminary study of FDIC applications using a fluorophore supported in a solid medium (sensor film) is presented. First, a mathematical model relating the analyte concentration with the immobilized fluorophore fluorescence is deduced. The model includes all the different mechanisms explaining this relationship: index of refraction or dielectric constant modification, scattering coefficient alteration and sensor film volume increase. Then, the very first experimental results are presented, using different fluorophores and solid supports. The best results were obtained using polyacrylamide (PAA) polymers and coralyne as the fluorophore. This sensor film is applied for albumin and polyethylenglycol determination and the results are compared with those obtained using coralyne in solution. Albumin quenches the coralyne fluorescence in both cases (solution and film), while PEG quenches coralyne fluorescence in films but increases it in solution. These results suggest that the outstanding fluorescence change mechanism is sensor films is the film volume increases, which is different than those observed in solution.