The accelerated growth of the vehicular fleet, the modernization of large urban centers, and the few adjustments to the road network in Fortaleza have intensified the problems of traffic and emissions of atmospheric p...The accelerated growth of the vehicular fleet, the modernization of large urban centers, and the few adjustments to the road network in Fortaleza have intensified the problems of traffic and emissions of atmospheric pollutants, highlighting the necessity for strategic urban planning initiatives to address the escalating issues of traffic and pollution. With the objective of analyzing the indices of concentrations of atmospheric pollutants and estimating how these levels can affect human health, this work consists of a study of the analysis of air quality in the intense trade region of Fortaleza. For this, the analysis zone was divided into three perimeters (Major - Medium - Minor), where each perimeter was analyzed at 7 am, 12 noon and 5 pm. Concentrations of the type of O<sub>3</sub>, particulate matter (PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub>), CO<sub>2</sub> and HCHO were collected. Our results demonstrate that most of the analyses are within the limits of current legislation;however, at certain times and perimeters, the analyses of CO<sub>2</sub> and HCHO exceeded the established limits. In view of the above, we conclude that public policies to control air quality are necessary to reduce the damage to human health and the environment caused by pollutants.展开更多
In the last decades,the role of the prion protein(PrP) in neurodegenerative diseases has been intensively investigated,initially in prion diseases of humans(e.g., Creutzfeldt-J akob disease) and animals(e.g.,scrapie i...In the last decades,the role of the prion protein(PrP) in neurodegenerative diseases has been intensively investigated,initially in prion diseases of humans(e.g., Creutzfeldt-J akob disease) and animals(e.g.,scrapie in sheep,chronic wasting disease in deer and elk,or "mad cow disease" in cattle).Templated misfolding of physiological cellular prion protein(PrPC) into an aggregation-prone isoform(termed PrP "Scrapie"(PrPSc)),self-re plication and spreading of the latter inside the brain and to peripheral tissues,and the associated formation of infectious proteopathic seeds(termed "prions")are among the essential pathogenic mechanisms underlying this group of fatal and transmissible spongiform encephalopathies.Late r,key roles of the correctly folded PrPCwere identified in more common human brain diseases(such as Alzheimer s disease or Parkinson’s disease) associated with the misfolding and/or accumulation of other proteins(such as amyloid-β,tau or α-synuclein,respectively).PrPChas also been linked with n euro protective and regenerative functions,for instance in hypoxic/ischemic conditions such as stroke.However,despite a mixed "bouquet" of suggested functions,our understanding of pathological and,especially,physiological roles played by PrPCin the brain and beyond is ce rtainly incomplete.Interactions with various other proteins at the cell surfa ce or within intracellular compartments may account for the functional diversity linked with PrPC.Moreover,conserved endogenous proteolytic processing of PrPCgenerates seve ral defined PrPCfragments,possibly holding intrinsic functions in physiological and pathological conditions,thus making the "true and complete biology" of this protein more complicated to be elucidated.Here,we focus on one of those released PrPCfragments,namely shed PrP(sPrP),generated by a membrane-proximate ADAM10-mediated cleavage event at the cell surfa ce.Similar to other soluble PrP fragments(such as the N1 fragment representing PrP’s released N-terminal tail upon the major α-cleavage even展开更多
BACKGROUND Mean age of patients with valves diseases is significantly increasing,and,in the near future,cardiac surgeons will have to deal with a considerable number of patients aged more than 80 years.The remarkable ...BACKGROUND Mean age of patients with valves diseases is significantly increasing,and,in the near future,cardiac surgeons will have to deal with a considerable number of patients aged more than 80 years.The remarkable results gained by the minimally invasive approach have encouraged its application in more complex and fragile patients,such as older people.This study aimed to identify the rate of early mortality and major complications,and independent predictors for mid-term mortality in octogenarians undergoing minimally invasive valve surgery.METHODS Octogenarian patients undergoing right mini-thoracotomy mitral and/or tricuspid valve surgery between 2006 and2020 were included.Primary endpoint was to identify independent predictors for mid-term mortality,and secondary endpoints were operative morality,stroke,independent predictors for early composite outcome,and quality of life at follow-up.RESULTS Analysis was performed on 130 patients.Stroke occurred in one patient(0.8%),while operative mortality was 6%(eight patients).One-year and five-year survival were 86% and 64%,respectively.Logistic regression identified age and creatinine level as independent predictors of mid-term mortality,survival analysis showed that age ≥ 84 years and creatinine level ≥ 1.22 mg/dL were the cut-off points for worst prognosis.Female gender and hypertension were found to be independent predictors of early composite outcome.CONCLUSIONS Results of the present study show that age alone should not be considered a contraindication for minimally invasive valve surgery.Identifying patients who are most likely to have survival and functional benefits after surgery is decisive to achieve optimal health outcomes and prevent futile procedures.展开更多
Objective: To explore why and how consumers utilize vegetables, herbs and spices. Methods: Focus groups were conducted with adult participants (n = 54) to determine attitudes, self-efficacy, and behaviors related to l...Objective: To explore why and how consumers utilize vegetables, herbs and spices. Methods: Focus groups were conducted with adult participants (n = 54) to determine attitudes, self-efficacy, and behaviors related to liking and usage of vegetables, herbs and spices as well as strategies to increase vegetable intake. Results: Seasonal availability, and family-centered memories and practices were motivation for vegetable intake. A diverse number of vegetables (n = 39) were listed as favorites based on taste and versatility, but seasonings were not commonly included in responses regarding preparation. Participants felt that vegetable dish names should reflect ingredients explicitly;that seasonings enhanced vegetable flavors;and that salt and pepper were most commonly used seasonings. The preferred strategy to increase vegetable consumption was through tasting or sampling opportunities;seasoning use was not mentioned. However, participants perceived that suggestions or demonstrations on how to prepare vegetables at home would be helpful. Personal gardens were mentioned frequently, but were not connected to strategies for increasing intake. Conclusions and Implications: Vegetable intake has a family focus that should be emphasized to increase intake. Efforts to increase intake could emphasize flavor and versatile preparation methods through tasting opportunities or educational demonstrations.展开更多
Background:Gastroparesis is a debilitating medical condition with limited treatment options.Gastric per-oral pyloromyotomy(G-POEM)has emerged as a promising treatment option with remarkable short-term clinical success...Background:Gastroparesis is a debilitating medical condition with limited treatment options.Gastric per-oral pyloromyotomy(G-POEM)has emerged as a promising treatment option with remarkable short-term clinical success shown in multiple studies.While the post-procedure protocol is not standardized across many centers,the majority of the centers observes these patients in the hospital after the procedure for monitoring.In this single-center prospective study,we evaluated the safety and feasibility of same day discharge after the G-POEM procedure.Methods:All the patients with refractory gastroparesis undergoing G-POEM from October 2019 to March 2020 were enrolled.A total of 25 patients were enrolled in the procedure.Based on the pre-defined criteria,patients were either discharged on the same day after the procedure or admitted to the hospital for further observation.The patient and procedure-related data were extracted from the chart review.Univariate analysis was performed(chi-squared test)on categorical variables after organizing categorical variables as numeric counts or percentages.The student t test was performed on continuous variables after reporting as mean and standard deviation.For analysis with a smaller sample size,Fisher exact and Mann–Whitney tests were used.Results:A total of 25 patients were enrolled.The technical success of G-POEM was 100%and clinical success was 80%(20/25)at 1-month follow-up.Of the 25 patients,9 patients(36%)were discharged on the same day according to the procedure from the recovery unit.Of the remaining 16 patients who were admitted to the hospital post-procedure,10(40%)were admitted due to procedure-related causes while other admissions were either pre-planned or due to social reasons.The average Charlson comorbidity index was lower in the same day discharge group(P<0.05).The number of patients requiring double myotomy was higher in the same day discharge group(P<0.05).The overall complication rate of G-POEM in the study cohort was 12%(3/25)with all complications being mild 展开更多
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the etiologic agent of genital cancer, but alone it is incapable of inducing oncogenesis. Rather, progression to invasive lesions is associated with host immunity and interference in ...The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the etiologic agent of genital cancer, but alone it is incapable of inducing oncogenesis. Rather, progression to invasive lesions is associated with host immunity and interference in the process of cellular apoptosis. Among the several genes involved in cell death, theFAS gene appears to be an important factor. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there is an association between polymorphisms of the FAS-670 gene promoter region and preinvasive and invasive lesions of the cervix. The FAS gene was evaluated for the presence of polymorphisms using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism techniques in 225 blood samples for the control group, as well as cervical tissue from patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN 3;75 cases) or invasive carcinoma (214 cases). The AG genotype of the FAS-670 gene promoter region was significantly more frequent in women with CIN 3, with an estimated risk of three times (OR = 3.0). No difference, however, was observed in the control group and women with cervical cancer. In women with cancer, the genotypes were similar in the different histological types and degree of tumor differentiation. Assessing allelic distribution (A or G), we observed no difference in frequency of genotypes in studied groups. These data suggest that polymorphism of the promoter region of the FAS-670 gene is associated with increased risk of CIN 3, but not for invasive cancer of the cervix.展开更多
Due to the development of Distributed Generation (DG), which is installed in Medium-Voltage Distribution Networks (MVDNs) such as generators based on renewable energy (e.g., wind energy or solar energy), voltage contr...Due to the development of Distributed Generation (DG), which is installed in Medium-Voltage Distribution Networks (MVDNs) such as generators based on renewable energy (e.g., wind energy or solar energy), voltage control is currently a very important issue. The voltage is now regulated at the MV busbars acting on the On-Load Tap Changer of the HV/MV transformer. This method does not guarantee the correct voltage value in the network nodes when the distributed generators deliver their power. In this paper an approach based on Sensitivity Theory is shown, in order to control the node voltages regulating the reactive power exchanged between the network and the dispersed generators. The automatic distributed voltage regulation is a particular topic of the Smart Grids.展开更多
The paper deals with the power quality analysis of interlaced four quadrant (4Q) converters with constant switching frequency. These are in fact the input stages of the locomotives and high speed trains supplied by 25...The paper deals with the power quality analysis of interlaced four quadrant (4Q) converters with constant switching frequency. These are in fact the input stages of the locomotives and high speed trains supplied by 25 kV, 50 Hz and 15 kV, 16.7 Hz lines. Due to the high power needed for the trains circulation, the 4Q converter can absorb distorted currents, whose harmonic content can affect the signaling systems and communication devices. The presence of more converters gives the opportunity, using dedicated commutation strategy, to interlace them in order to reduce the harmonic content in the absorbed current. In the paper a suitable model of more 4Q converters is developed. The control logic implemented in the model allows the evaluation of the harmonic contribution of both single converter and the interlaced configuration. The analysis is carried out through electromagnetic transient simulations.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the estrogenic effect of(8,9)-furanyl-pterocarpan-3-ol(FPC)on growth of human breast cancer T47D cells and the interactions between the FPC and tamoxifen(TAM),on the growth of estrogen recepto...Objective:To investigate the estrogenic effect of(8,9)-furanyl-pterocarpan-3-ol(FPC)on growth of human breast cancer T47D cells and the interactions between the FPC and tamoxifen(TAM),on the growth of estrogen receptor-dependent breast cancer T47D cells.Methods:The proliferation effect of FPC were conducted on T47D cells in vitro by MTT test.T47D cells were treated with FPC alone(0.01-200μmol/L)or in combination with TAM 20 nmol/L.Furthermore,the expression of ERαor c-Myc were also determined by immunohistochemistry.Results:The results indicated that administration of an anti-estrogen TAM showed growth inhibitory effect on T47D cells,wheraes co-administered with low concentration(less than 1μmol/L)of FPC attenuated to promote cell proliferation.In contrast,the combination of TAM with higher doses(more than 20μmol/L)of FPC showed growth inhibitory.This result was supported by immunocytochemistry studies that the administration of 20 nmol/L TAM down-regulated ER-αand c-Myc,but the combination of 20 nmol/L TAM and 1μmol/L FPC robustly up-regulated expression of ER-α.Thus,the reduced growth inhibition of TAM 20 nmol/L by FPC 1μmol/L on T47D cells may act via the modulation of ER-α.Conclusions:The findings indicate and suggest that FPC had estrogenic activity at low concentrations and anti-estrogenic effect that are likely to be regulated by c-Myc and estrogen receptors.We also confirm that low concentration of FPC attenuated the growth-inhibitory effects of TAM on mammary tumor prevention.Therefore,the present study suggests that caution is warranted regarding the consumption of dietary FPC by breast cancer patients while on TMA therapy.展开更多
Objective. Capsule endoscopy is a promising method for examining the small intestine. The study was performed to evaluate the use of capsule endoscopy in clinical routine in patients with suspected disease of the smal...Objective. Capsule endoscopy is a promising method for examining the small intestine. The study was performed to evaluate the use of capsule endoscopy in clinical routine in patients with suspected disease of the small intestine. Material and methods. Consecutive patients with clinically suspected disease of the small intestine referred for capsule endoscopy between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2004 were included in the study. All patients had previously completed a conventional diagnostic work-up with upper and lower endoscopy as well as abdominal CT scan or small-bowel enteroclysis. Results. A total of 167 patients were referred during the time period and 195 procedures were performed. Seventeen (8.7%) of the procedures were unsuccessful, with no visualization of the small bowel. In the remaining procedures the caecum was reached in 83%. The reason for referral was gastrointestinal bleeding (30%), iron-deficiency anaemia (25%), abdominal pain (15%), diarrhoea (13%) and Crohn’s disease (12%). Pathology was found in 27%of the patients, with the highest diagnostic yield in patients referred for Crohn’s disease (60%) and the lowest yield (4%) in patients referred for abdominal pain. There were no complications, with the exception of one patient referred for Crohn’s disease who had transient abdominal pain during the procedure. Conclusions. Capsule endoscopy is a safe and well-tolerated procedure. In unselected patients with clinically suspected disease of the small intestine, the procedure gives additional information to conventional diagnostic procedures in 27%of patients. Incomplete examination of the small intestine was frequent in our group of patients.展开更多
A freshwater green microalgae Chlorella sp., UMACC344 was shown to produce high lipid content and has the potential to be used as feedstock for biofuel production. In this study, photosynthetic effciency, biochemical ...A freshwater green microalgae Chlorella sp., UMACC344 was shown to produce high lipid content and has the potential to be used as feedstock for biofuel production. In this study, photosynthetic effciency, biochemical pro?les and non-targeted metabolic pro?ling were studied to compare between the nitrogen-replete and deplete conditions. Slowed growth, change in photosynthetic pigments and lowered photosynthetic effciency were observed in response to nitrogen deprivation. Biochemical pro?les of the cultures showed an increased level of carbohydrate, lipids and total fatty acids, while the total soluble protein content was lowered. A trend of fatty acid saturation was observed in the nitrogen-deplete culture with an increase in the level of saturated fatty acids especially C16:0 and C18:0, accompanied by a decrease in proportions of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Fifty-nine metabolites, including amino acids, lipids, phytochemical compounds, vitamins and cofactors were signi?cantly dysregulated and annotated in this study. Pathway mapping analysis revealed a rewiring of metabolic pathways in the cells, particularly purine, carotenoid, nicotinate and nicotinamide, and amino acid metabolisms. Within the treatment period of nitrogen deprivation, the key processes involved were reshu ? ing of nitrogen from proteins and photosynthetic machinery, together with carbon repartitioning in carbohydrates and lipids.展开更多
Food must supply a balance of nutrients to support both brain and body.The human brain makes us uniquely human.Essential fatty acids are part of the metabolic pathways that define tissue structure and function.Omega-6...Food must supply a balance of nutrients to support both brain and body.The human brain makes us uniquely human.Essential fatty acids are part of the metabolic pathways that define tissue structure and function.Omega-6(O6)linoleic acid(LA6)has long been known to be required for skin structure,and as a precursor for inflammatory,thrombotic,immune,and other signaling molecules.Omega-3(O3)alpha-linolenic acid(ALA3)and particularly its long chain product docosahexaenoic acid(DHA3)has a key structural role in the brain,retina,and related neural tissue.In the 20 th century western world,inexpensive,high quality oils primarily from LA6-rich/O3-poor vegetable seed oils became dominant fats produced by the food industry.Provision of LA6-rich/O3-poor oils as the sole source of fat in the diets of pregnant animals causes O3 deficiency and poor brain development,primarily because high LA6 antagonizes metabolism of all O3,creating an artificial metabolic demand for O3.Data developed over the last 2~3 decades show that provision of low LA6 combined with preformed DHA3 optimizes brain function.Recent studies emphasize the importance of nutrition to support brain development,with newer findings showing particular importance of fatty acid balance in malnourished children.The World Health Organization(WHO)through the Codex Alimentarius(“Code for Food”)is increasingly recognizing the primacy of brain health and in part on that basis recently acted to recommend balanced fat for Ready-to-Use-Therapeutic Foods used to treat children with severe acute malnutrition.Similar principles are likely to be important in older persons.Industry now has the tools to adjust the composition of oils to support brain health throughout the life cycle.展开更多
文摘The accelerated growth of the vehicular fleet, the modernization of large urban centers, and the few adjustments to the road network in Fortaleza have intensified the problems of traffic and emissions of atmospheric pollutants, highlighting the necessity for strategic urban planning initiatives to address the escalating issues of traffic and pollution. With the objective of analyzing the indices of concentrations of atmospheric pollutants and estimating how these levels can affect human health, this work consists of a study of the analysis of air quality in the intense trade region of Fortaleza. For this, the analysis zone was divided into three perimeters (Major - Medium - Minor), where each perimeter was analyzed at 7 am, 12 noon and 5 pm. Concentrations of the type of O<sub>3</sub>, particulate matter (PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub>), CO<sub>2</sub> and HCHO were collected. Our results demonstrate that most of the analyses are within the limits of current legislation;however, at certain times and perimeters, the analyses of CO<sub>2</sub> and HCHO exceeded the established limits. In view of the above, we conclude that public policies to control air quality are necessary to reduce the damage to human health and the environment caused by pollutants.
基金supported by funding from the Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease FoundationInc.(USA)+4 种基金the Alzheimer Forschung Initiative (AFI e.V.,Germany)the Werner-Otto-Stiftung (Hamburg,Germany)(all to HCA)the China Scholarship Council (to FS)European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Program under the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Grant Agreement N°101030402 (to AMA)Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) Collaborative Research Center (CRC) 877"Proteolysis as a regulatory event in pathophysiology"(to MG)。
文摘In the last decades,the role of the prion protein(PrP) in neurodegenerative diseases has been intensively investigated,initially in prion diseases of humans(e.g., Creutzfeldt-J akob disease) and animals(e.g.,scrapie in sheep,chronic wasting disease in deer and elk,or "mad cow disease" in cattle).Templated misfolding of physiological cellular prion protein(PrPC) into an aggregation-prone isoform(termed PrP "Scrapie"(PrPSc)),self-re plication and spreading of the latter inside the brain and to peripheral tissues,and the associated formation of infectious proteopathic seeds(termed "prions")are among the essential pathogenic mechanisms underlying this group of fatal and transmissible spongiform encephalopathies.Late r,key roles of the correctly folded PrPCwere identified in more common human brain diseases(such as Alzheimer s disease or Parkinson’s disease) associated with the misfolding and/or accumulation of other proteins(such as amyloid-β,tau or α-synuclein,respectively).PrPChas also been linked with n euro protective and regenerative functions,for instance in hypoxic/ischemic conditions such as stroke.However,despite a mixed "bouquet" of suggested functions,our understanding of pathological and,especially,physiological roles played by PrPCin the brain and beyond is ce rtainly incomplete.Interactions with various other proteins at the cell surfa ce or within intracellular compartments may account for the functional diversity linked with PrPC.Moreover,conserved endogenous proteolytic processing of PrPCgenerates seve ral defined PrPCfragments,possibly holding intrinsic functions in physiological and pathological conditions,thus making the "true and complete biology" of this protein more complicated to be elucidated.Here,we focus on one of those released PrPCfragments,namely shed PrP(sPrP),generated by a membrane-proximate ADAM10-mediated cleavage event at the cell surfa ce.Similar to other soluble PrP fragments(such as the N1 fragment representing PrP’s released N-terminal tail upon the major α-cleavage even
文摘BACKGROUND Mean age of patients with valves diseases is significantly increasing,and,in the near future,cardiac surgeons will have to deal with a considerable number of patients aged more than 80 years.The remarkable results gained by the minimally invasive approach have encouraged its application in more complex and fragile patients,such as older people.This study aimed to identify the rate of early mortality and major complications,and independent predictors for mid-term mortality in octogenarians undergoing minimally invasive valve surgery.METHODS Octogenarian patients undergoing right mini-thoracotomy mitral and/or tricuspid valve surgery between 2006 and2020 were included.Primary endpoint was to identify independent predictors for mid-term mortality,and secondary endpoints were operative morality,stroke,independent predictors for early composite outcome,and quality of life at follow-up.RESULTS Analysis was performed on 130 patients.Stroke occurred in one patient(0.8%),while operative mortality was 6%(eight patients).One-year and five-year survival were 86% and 64%,respectively.Logistic regression identified age and creatinine level as independent predictors of mid-term mortality,survival analysis showed that age ≥ 84 years and creatinine level ≥ 1.22 mg/dL were the cut-off points for worst prognosis.Female gender and hypertension were found to be independent predictors of early composite outcome.CONCLUSIONS Results of the present study show that age alone should not be considered a contraindication for minimally invasive valve surgery.Identifying patients who are most likely to have survival and functional benefits after surgery is decisive to achieve optimal health outcomes and prevent futile procedures.
文摘Objective: To explore why and how consumers utilize vegetables, herbs and spices. Methods: Focus groups were conducted with adult participants (n = 54) to determine attitudes, self-efficacy, and behaviors related to liking and usage of vegetables, herbs and spices as well as strategies to increase vegetable intake. Results: Seasonal availability, and family-centered memories and practices were motivation for vegetable intake. A diverse number of vegetables (n = 39) were listed as favorites based on taste and versatility, but seasonings were not commonly included in responses regarding preparation. Participants felt that vegetable dish names should reflect ingredients explicitly;that seasonings enhanced vegetable flavors;and that salt and pepper were most commonly used seasonings. The preferred strategy to increase vegetable consumption was through tasting or sampling opportunities;seasoning use was not mentioned. However, participants perceived that suggestions or demonstrations on how to prepare vegetables at home would be helpful. Personal gardens were mentioned frequently, but were not connected to strategies for increasing intake. Conclusions and Implications: Vegetable intake has a family focus that should be emphasized to increase intake. Efforts to increase intake could emphasize flavor and versatile preparation methods through tasting opportunities or educational demonstrations.
文摘Background:Gastroparesis is a debilitating medical condition with limited treatment options.Gastric per-oral pyloromyotomy(G-POEM)has emerged as a promising treatment option with remarkable short-term clinical success shown in multiple studies.While the post-procedure protocol is not standardized across many centers,the majority of the centers observes these patients in the hospital after the procedure for monitoring.In this single-center prospective study,we evaluated the safety and feasibility of same day discharge after the G-POEM procedure.Methods:All the patients with refractory gastroparesis undergoing G-POEM from October 2019 to March 2020 were enrolled.A total of 25 patients were enrolled in the procedure.Based on the pre-defined criteria,patients were either discharged on the same day after the procedure or admitted to the hospital for further observation.The patient and procedure-related data were extracted from the chart review.Univariate analysis was performed(chi-squared test)on categorical variables after organizing categorical variables as numeric counts or percentages.The student t test was performed on continuous variables after reporting as mean and standard deviation.For analysis with a smaller sample size,Fisher exact and Mann–Whitney tests were used.Results:A total of 25 patients were enrolled.The technical success of G-POEM was 100%and clinical success was 80%(20/25)at 1-month follow-up.Of the 25 patients,9 patients(36%)were discharged on the same day according to the procedure from the recovery unit.Of the remaining 16 patients who were admitted to the hospital post-procedure,10(40%)were admitted due to procedure-related causes while other admissions were either pre-planned or due to social reasons.The average Charlson comorbidity index was lower in the same day discharge group(P<0.05).The number of patients requiring double myotomy was higher in the same day discharge group(P<0.05).The overall complication rate of G-POEM in the study cohort was 12%(3/25)with all complications being mild
文摘The human papillomavirus (HPV) is the etiologic agent of genital cancer, but alone it is incapable of inducing oncogenesis. Rather, progression to invasive lesions is associated with host immunity and interference in the process of cellular apoptosis. Among the several genes involved in cell death, theFAS gene appears to be an important factor. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there is an association between polymorphisms of the FAS-670 gene promoter region and preinvasive and invasive lesions of the cervix. The FAS gene was evaluated for the presence of polymorphisms using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism techniques in 225 blood samples for the control group, as well as cervical tissue from patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 (CIN 3;75 cases) or invasive carcinoma (214 cases). The AG genotype of the FAS-670 gene promoter region was significantly more frequent in women with CIN 3, with an estimated risk of three times (OR = 3.0). No difference, however, was observed in the control group and women with cervical cancer. In women with cancer, the genotypes were similar in the different histological types and degree of tumor differentiation. Assessing allelic distribution (A or G), we observed no difference in frequency of genotypes in studied groups. These data suggest that polymorphism of the promoter region of the FAS-670 gene is associated with increased risk of CIN 3, but not for invasive cancer of the cervix.
文摘Due to the development of Distributed Generation (DG), which is installed in Medium-Voltage Distribution Networks (MVDNs) such as generators based on renewable energy (e.g., wind energy or solar energy), voltage control is currently a very important issue. The voltage is now regulated at the MV busbars acting on the On-Load Tap Changer of the HV/MV transformer. This method does not guarantee the correct voltage value in the network nodes when the distributed generators deliver their power. In this paper an approach based on Sensitivity Theory is shown, in order to control the node voltages regulating the reactive power exchanged between the network and the dispersed generators. The automatic distributed voltage regulation is a particular topic of the Smart Grids.
文摘The paper deals with the power quality analysis of interlaced four quadrant (4Q) converters with constant switching frequency. These are in fact the input stages of the locomotives and high speed trains supplied by 25 kV, 50 Hz and 15 kV, 16.7 Hz lines. Due to the high power needed for the trains circulation, the 4Q converter can absorb distorted currents, whose harmonic content can affect the signaling systems and communication devices. The presence of more converters gives the opportunity, using dedicated commutation strategy, to interlace them in order to reduce the harmonic content in the absorbed current. In the paper a suitable model of more 4Q converters is developed. The control logic implemented in the model allows the evaluation of the harmonic contribution of both single converter and the interlaced configuration. The analysis is carried out through electromagnetic transient simulations.
基金Supported in part by Hibah Competition Grant Research of Faculty of PharmacyGadjah Mada University(Grant No.UGM/FA/851.d/M/05/01)
文摘Objective:To investigate the estrogenic effect of(8,9)-furanyl-pterocarpan-3-ol(FPC)on growth of human breast cancer T47D cells and the interactions between the FPC and tamoxifen(TAM),on the growth of estrogen receptor-dependent breast cancer T47D cells.Methods:The proliferation effect of FPC were conducted on T47D cells in vitro by MTT test.T47D cells were treated with FPC alone(0.01-200μmol/L)or in combination with TAM 20 nmol/L.Furthermore,the expression of ERαor c-Myc were also determined by immunohistochemistry.Results:The results indicated that administration of an anti-estrogen TAM showed growth inhibitory effect on T47D cells,wheraes co-administered with low concentration(less than 1μmol/L)of FPC attenuated to promote cell proliferation.In contrast,the combination of TAM with higher doses(more than 20μmol/L)of FPC showed growth inhibitory.This result was supported by immunocytochemistry studies that the administration of 20 nmol/L TAM down-regulated ER-αand c-Myc,but the combination of 20 nmol/L TAM and 1μmol/L FPC robustly up-regulated expression of ER-α.Thus,the reduced growth inhibition of TAM 20 nmol/L by FPC 1μmol/L on T47D cells may act via the modulation of ER-α.Conclusions:The findings indicate and suggest that FPC had estrogenic activity at low concentrations and anti-estrogenic effect that are likely to be regulated by c-Myc and estrogen receptors.We also confirm that low concentration of FPC attenuated the growth-inhibitory effects of TAM on mammary tumor prevention.Therefore,the present study suggests that caution is warranted regarding the consumption of dietary FPC by breast cancer patients while on TMA therapy.
文摘Objective. Capsule endoscopy is a promising method for examining the small intestine. The study was performed to evaluate the use of capsule endoscopy in clinical routine in patients with suspected disease of the small intestine. Material and methods. Consecutive patients with clinically suspected disease of the small intestine referred for capsule endoscopy between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2004 were included in the study. All patients had previously completed a conventional diagnostic work-up with upper and lower endoscopy as well as abdominal CT scan or small-bowel enteroclysis. Results. A total of 167 patients were referred during the time period and 195 procedures were performed. Seventeen (8.7%) of the procedures were unsuccessful, with no visualization of the small bowel. In the remaining procedures the caecum was reached in 83%. The reason for referral was gastrointestinal bleeding (30%), iron-deficiency anaemia (25%), abdominal pain (15%), diarrhoea (13%) and Crohn’s disease (12%). Pathology was found in 27%of the patients, with the highest diagnostic yield in patients referred for Crohn’s disease (60%) and the lowest yield (4%) in patients referred for abdominal pain. There were no complications, with the exception of one patient referred for Crohn’s disease who had transient abdominal pain during the procedure. Conclusions. Capsule endoscopy is a safe and well-tolerated procedure. In unselected patients with clinically suspected disease of the small intestine, the procedure gives additional information to conventional diagnostic procedures in 27%of patients. Incomplete examination of the small intestine was frequent in our group of patients.
基金Supported by the Aerospace Malaysia Innovation Centre&Airbus Group Innovation(No.PV001-2013)the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia HICoE grant(No.IOES-2014H)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme(No.FP048-2016)the University of Malaya UMCoE RU Grant(No.RU009H-2015)
文摘A freshwater green microalgae Chlorella sp., UMACC344 was shown to produce high lipid content and has the potential to be used as feedstock for biofuel production. In this study, photosynthetic effciency, biochemical pro?les and non-targeted metabolic pro?ling were studied to compare between the nitrogen-replete and deplete conditions. Slowed growth, change in photosynthetic pigments and lowered photosynthetic effciency were observed in response to nitrogen deprivation. Biochemical pro?les of the cultures showed an increased level of carbohydrate, lipids and total fatty acids, while the total soluble protein content was lowered. A trend of fatty acid saturation was observed in the nitrogen-deplete culture with an increase in the level of saturated fatty acids especially C16:0 and C18:0, accompanied by a decrease in proportions of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Fifty-nine metabolites, including amino acids, lipids, phytochemical compounds, vitamins and cofactors were signi?cantly dysregulated and annotated in this study. Pathway mapping analysis revealed a rewiring of metabolic pathways in the cells, particularly purine, carotenoid, nicotinate and nicotinamide, and amino acid metabolisms. Within the treatment period of nitrogen deprivation, the key processes involved were reshu ? ing of nitrogen from proteins and photosynthetic machinery, together with carbon repartitioning in carbohydrates and lipids.
基金US National Institutes of Health(R01s AT007003,GM103437,GM71534,EY10208,GM49209)Unorthodox Philanthropy+3 种基金Open Philanthropythe Hickey Family Foundationthe Children’s Discovery InstituteWiley Companies。
文摘Food must supply a balance of nutrients to support both brain and body.The human brain makes us uniquely human.Essential fatty acids are part of the metabolic pathways that define tissue structure and function.Omega-6(O6)linoleic acid(LA6)has long been known to be required for skin structure,and as a precursor for inflammatory,thrombotic,immune,and other signaling molecules.Omega-3(O3)alpha-linolenic acid(ALA3)and particularly its long chain product docosahexaenoic acid(DHA3)has a key structural role in the brain,retina,and related neural tissue.In the 20 th century western world,inexpensive,high quality oils primarily from LA6-rich/O3-poor vegetable seed oils became dominant fats produced by the food industry.Provision of LA6-rich/O3-poor oils as the sole source of fat in the diets of pregnant animals causes O3 deficiency and poor brain development,primarily because high LA6 antagonizes metabolism of all O3,creating an artificial metabolic demand for O3.Data developed over the last 2~3 decades show that provision of low LA6 combined with preformed DHA3 optimizes brain function.Recent studies emphasize the importance of nutrition to support brain development,with newer findings showing particular importance of fatty acid balance in malnourished children.The World Health Organization(WHO)through the Codex Alimentarius(“Code for Food”)is increasingly recognizing the primacy of brain health and in part on that basis recently acted to recommend balanced fat for Ready-to-Use-Therapeutic Foods used to treat children with severe acute malnutrition.Similar principles are likely to be important in older persons.Industry now has the tools to adjust the composition of oils to support brain health throughout the life cycle.
