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Hydrodynamic cavitation-assisted acid pretreatment and fed-batch simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation for ethanol production from sugarcane bagasse using immobilized cells of Scheffersomyces parashehatae. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2024; 394:130234. [PMID: 38142906 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2023.130234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
A new alternative for hydrodynamic cavitation-assisted pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse was proposed, along with a simultaneous saccharification and co-fermentation (SSCF) process performed in interconnected columns. Influential variables in the pretreatment were evaluated using a statistical design, indicating that an ozone flow rate of 10 mg min-1 and a pH of 5.10 resulted in 86 % and 72 % glucan and xylan hydrolysis yields, respectively, in the subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis process. Under these optimized conditions, iron sulfate (15 mg L-1) was added to assess Fenton pretreatment, resulting in glucan and xylan hydrolysis yields of 92 % and 71 %, respectively, in a material pretreated for 10 min. In SSCF, ethanol volumetric productivities of 0.33 g L-1 h-1 and of 0.54 g L-1 h-1 were obtained in batch and fed-batch operation modes, achieving 26 g L-1 of ethanol in 48 h in the latter mode.
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Physical and chemical characterization of drill cuttings: A review. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115342. [PMID: 37634349 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/23/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Drill cuttings comprise a mixture of rocks generated during drilling activities of exploration and production of oil and gas. These residues' properties are variable, depending on several drilling parameters and drilled rock composition. Many scientific studies have been published regarding the characterization of these residues. Articles summarizing these residues' characteristics and toxicity data are poorly explored in the literature. This work reviews the principal methods used to characterize drill cuttings and data about these residues' properties. Some authors have reported the large content of Zn in drill cuttings. These cuttings can be associated with base fluids (as olefins, varying from C11 to C18), and some time crude oil (high range of TPH, unresolved complex mixtures, and PAH compounds). Acute and chronic toxicity tests have shown negative impacts of different types of fluids, the components of these fluids, and cuttings on other marine organisms.
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The role of microglia in 67NR mammary tumor-induced suppression of brain responses to immune challenges in female mice. J Neurochem 2023:10.1111/jnc.15830. [PMID: 37084026 PMCID: PMC10589388 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
It is poorly understood how solid peripheral tumors affect brain neuroimmune responses despite the various brain-mediated side effects and higher rates of infection reported in cancer patients. We hypothesized that chronic low-grade peripheral tumor-induced inflammation conditions microglia to drive suppression of neuroinflammatory responses to a subsequent peripheral immune challenge. Here, Balb/c murine mammary tumors attenuated the microglial inflammatory gene expression responses to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and live Escherichia coli (E. coli) challenges and the fatigue response to an E. coli infection. In contrast, the inflammatory gene expression in response to LPS or a toll-like receptor 2 agonist of Percoll-enriched primary microglia cultures was comparable between tumor-bearing and -free mice, as were the neuroinflammatory and sickness behavioral responses to an intracerebroventricular interleukin (IL)-1β injection. These data led to the hypothesis that Balb/c mammary tumors blunt the neuroinflammatory responses to an immune challenge via a mechanism involving tumor suppression of the peripheral humoral response. Balb/c mammary tumors modestly attenuated select circulating cytokine responses to LPS and E. coli challenges. Further, a second mammary tumor/mouse strain model (E0771 tumors in C57Bl/6 mice) displayed mildly elevated inflammatory responses to an immune challenge. Taken together, these data indicate that tumor-induced suppression of neuroinflammation and sickness behaviors may be driven by a blunted microglial phenotype, partly because of an attenuated peripheral signal to the brain, which may contribute to infection responses and behavioral side effects reported in cancer patients. Finally, these neuroimmune effects likely vary based on tumor type and/or host immune phenotype.
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Non-ionic surfactant formulation sequentially enhances the enzymatic hydrolysis of cellulignin from sugarcane bagasse and the production of Monascus ruber biopigments. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 362:127781. [PMID: 35973567 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2022.127781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The effect of a non-ionic surfactant optimized formulation (SOF) obtained from an experimental design was evaluated for different influencing variables in the processing of sugarcane bagasse cellulignin to produce biopigments. The major findings in the saccharification stage using the SOF point that: at same enzyme loading, the highest glucan hydrolysis yield was 63 % (2-fold higher compared to control); the enzyme loading of 2.5 FPU/g resulted in similar yield compared to 10 FPU/g (control); 15 % (m/v) of total solids loading maintained the yield in fed-batch configuration; the hydrolysis yield is maintained at high shear force stress (800 rpm of stirring rate) and temperatures (50-70 °C). Besides, under separate and semi-simultaneous hydrolysis and fermentation, the maximum biopigments production were of 10 AU510nm/mL and 17.84 AU510nm/mL, respectively. The SOF used in this study was found to be a promising additive either in a single or sequential steps to produce biopigments in biorefineries.
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A review on recent developments in hydrodynamic cavitation and advanced oxidative processes for pretreatment of lignocellulosic materials. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2022; 345:126458. [PMID: 34863850 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2021.126458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Environmental problems due to utilization of fossil-derived materials for energy and chemical generation has prompted the use of renewable alternative sources, such as lignocellulose biomass (LB). Indeed, the production of biomolecules and biofuels from LB is among the most important current research topics aiming to development a sustainable bioeconomy. Yet, the industrial use of LB is limited by the recalcitrance of biomass, which impairs the hydrolysis of the carbohydrate fractions. Hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) and Advanced Oxidative Processes (AOPs) has been proposed as innovative pretreatment strategies aiming to reduce process time and chemical inputs. Therefore, the underlying mechanisms, procedural strategies, influence on biomass structure, and research gaps were critically discussed in this review. The performed discussion can contribute to future developments, giving a wide overview of the main involved aspects.
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ANTITUMORAL ACTIVITY OF THE NOVEL BTK INHIBITOR TG‐1701 IS ASSOCIATED WITH DISRUPTION OF IKAROS SIGNALING AND IMPROVEMENT OF ANTI‐CD20 THERAPY IN B‐CELL NON‐HODGKIN LYMPHOMA. Hematol Oncol 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/hon.153_2880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Leadership and mentoring in medical physics: The experience of a medical physics international mentoring program. Phys Med 2020; 76:337-344. [PMID: 32759035 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmp.2020.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Mentoring aims to improve careers and create benefits for the participants' personal and professional lives. Mentoring can be an individual or a shared experience for a group, while the mentor's role remains the same in both models. Mentors should increase confidence, teach, inspire, and set examples, helping the mentees to mould their path, contributing to the pursuit of their personal and professional goals. This study aims to report on the experience of early-career medical physics professionals and postgraduate students participating in a global mentoring program and to assess the impact of this activity on their professional development. The objectives of this mentoring program are to develop leadership roles among young medical physicists and to provide guidance and support. An online questionnaire was administered to the mentee participants. The analysis of their responses is reported in this work and the current status of the programme was examined using a SWOT analysis. In general, the mentoring experience had a positive impact on the mentees. The mentors were found especially helpful in the decision-making situations and in other conflicts that may arise with career development. Additionally, the mentees felt that mentoring contributed to the development of leadership skills required for the job market and assist in personal development. This paper concludes that participation of young medical physicists in a mentoring group program is beneficial to their career and therefore should be encouraged.
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Uncertainty estimation and statistical comparative methodology for mammography x-ray energy spectra. Biomed Phys Eng Express 2020; 6:035018. [PMID: 33438663 DOI: 10.1088/2057-1976/ab817d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Numerical models are an alternative to measurements of x-ray energy spectra when validated by comparative methods that assess the similarity of experimental and calculated spectra. In this work, we compared x-ray energy spectra using several methodologies and determined the methodology with highest statistical power among them. Experiments and Monte Carlo (MC) simulations were used to generate a set of 65 experimental and simulated x-ray mammography spectra pairs typically used in mammography applications. They were generated using Tungsten and Molybdenum targets and Molybdenum and Rhodium filters. The x-ray beams were transmitted through breast tissue equivalent material (bTEM) plates with different glandularities and thicknesses, and the transmitted beam was detected using solid-state x-ray spectrometry with a Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) diode. The MC simulations used the PENELOPE code. Additional uncertainties, beyond that from counting, were propagated using the MC method. Quantitative comparative methods based on the [Formula: see text] statistics, the first and second half-value layers, the mean energy, the effective energy, and the non-parametric u-test were applied and their specificity (true negative rate) was assessed. The polyenergetic normalized glandular dose (DgNp) to a 6 cm breast of 50/50 glandularity was derived from the spectra. In this work, the [Formula: see text] statistics attained the highest score; therefore, it is the most indicated metric for the x-ray energy spectra comparative evaluations. The contribution of the additional uncertainties was important, being responsible for up to 98% of the spectra total uncertainty and shifting the mean of the evaluated [Formula: see text] to 1.2(1), compatible with its expected value. The use of non-parametric test is discouraged by our results, since it failed to distinguish spectra pairs that resulted in up to 72% discrepant DgNp.
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Pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse using hydrodynamic cavitation technology: Semi-continuous and continuous process. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2019; 290:121777. [PMID: 31319211 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.121777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Development of new technologies for pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass is a current research challenge. In this way, hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) was used to assist alkaline hydrogen peroxide pretreatment of sugarcane bagasse (SCB) in sequential batches (SB-HC), semi-continuous (SC-HC) and continuous (C-HC) processes. Pretreatment resulted in compositional modifications in the material, mainly regarding the cellulose and lignin contents. The released sugars after enzymatic hydrolysis resulted, on average, in 42 g and 32-35 g of glucose per 100 g of SCB for samples treated in B-HC (10 min of process) and SC-HC process (7.5 min residence time), respectively. In C-HC process, with an average residence time of 7.5 min and 3.75 min, 38-46 g and 32-38 g of glucose per 100 g of SCB were obtained respectively in enzymatic hydrolysis step. HC technology was shown as a promising alternative for pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass in all evaluated configurations aiming to produce high value bioproducts.
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Geographical Distribution of Schizotetranychus hindustanicus and Associated Mites in Roraima, Brazil. NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 48:866-872. [PMID: 31372828 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-019-00704-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The Hindustan citrus mite, Schizotetranychus hindustanicus Hirst (Acari: Tetranychidae), is a quarantine pest present in the state of Roraima, Brazil. This mite, which was described in India in 1924, was reported in 2002 in Venezuela and spread to Roraima, where it was reported in 2008, and to Colombia, where it was reported in 2010. Its possible spread to other regions of Brazil is a threat to Brazilian citriculture. This study reports the current distribution of S. hindustanicus and potential predators of this pest and other mites associated with citrus in Roraima. A survey was conducted in August and September 2015 in the 15 municipalities of the state. In each municipality, orchards and citrus plants in backyards and public areas along highways and in urban areas were sampled. Samples of leaves and fruits were collected to identify the mite and its natural enemies. Schizotetranychus hindustanicus was found in all 15 municipalities in the state of Roraima. In total, 308 associated mites were found, with S. hindustanicus being the most abundant phytophagous mite, followed by Brevipalpus yothersi Baker. Amblyseius aerialis (Muma) was the most abundant predator, followed by Iphiseiodes zuluagai Denmark and Muma and Euseius concordis (Chant). The broad dispersal of S. hindustanicus in Roraima increases the risks of this pest reaching the main citrus-producing regions in Brazil.
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Preventive therapy compliance in pediatric tuberculosis - A single center experience. Pulmonology 2019; 26:78-83. [PMID: 31427215 DOI: 10.1016/j.pulmoe.2019.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite its importance, there are some barriers to patient compliance in preventive therapy (PT) of tuberculosis (TB). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the compliance to appointments, PT and follow-up in a pediatric population after TB exposure, followed in a single TB outpatient center, and the subsequent identification of compliance determinants. METHODS Retrospective analysis of all pediatric patients who underwent PT in Gaia TB outpatient center from January 2015 to June 2016. Patients were divided into two groups: compliant and non-compliant, according to adherence to screening, visits and medication. The data collection was based on review of medical records. RESULTS A total of 72 patients were enrolled, 33 (45.8%) on chemoprophylaxis and 39 (54.2%) on latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) treatment. The majority of patients were compliant (63.9%, n=46). Non-compliance was found in 36.1% (n=26): in 12 patients to contact screening, in 11 patients to PT and 22 patients did not attend medical appointments in the first place. In 10 patients, non-compliance was related to social problems/family dysfunction (low socioeconomic status and parent's unemployment). After putting in place several strategies, such as telephone contact, activating social services and direct observation of therapy, a compliance of 98.6% was achieved. Isoniazid was the main drug used (91.7%), during 9 months for LBTI. CONCLUSION PT compliance in TB can be challenging, probably related to the lack of risk perception and caregiver's reluctance to undergo a prolonged treatment to an asymptomatic condition. We conclude that implementing interventions can considerably improve treatment compliance and reduce the risk of future tuberculosis development. We emphasize the success in compliance to a 9 month regimen of isoniazid in the vast majority of patients with LTBI.
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Extracellular L-asparaginase production in solid-state fermentation by using sugarcane bagasse as support material. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2019; 49:328-333. [PMID: 30712449 DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2019.1566152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
L-asparaginase is an important enzyme used in the pharmaceutical and food industry, which can be produced by different microorganisms using low cost feedstocks. In this work, sugarcane bagasse (SCB) was used as support for enzyme production in solid-state fermentation (SSF) by A. terreus. Initially, the influence of the variables carbon and nitrogen sources on the enzyme production was studied following an experimental design carried out in Erlenmeyer flasks. Statistical analysis indicated the use of 0.54% of starch, 0% of maltose, 0.44% of asparagine, and 1.14% of glutamine in the medium, resulting in enzyme activity per volume of produced extract of 120.723 U/L. Then, these conditions were applied in a horizontal column reactor filled with SCB, producing 105.3 U/L of enzyme activity. Therefore, the potential of extracellular L-asparaginase enzyme production in the column reactor using sugarcane bagasse as support was demonstrated and it represents a system that can favor large scale production.
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Molecular and Crystalline Structure of the Ruthenium(II) Complex [{trans-(dppe)2(Cl) Ru–C≡C–H} · 0.5CDCl3]: An Additional Determination. CRYSTALLOGR REP+ 2018. [DOI: 10.1134/s106377451807009x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Biodegradable alternative for removing toxic compounds from sugarcane bagasse hemicellulosic hydrolysates for valorization in biorefineries. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2017; 243:384-392. [PMID: 28683391 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2017.06.064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2017] [Revised: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Among the major challenges for hemicellulosic hydrolysate application in fermentative processes, there is the presence of toxic compounds generated during the pretreatment of the biomass, which can inhibit microbial growth. Therefore, the development of efficient, biodegradable and cost-effective detoxification methods for lignocellulosic hydrolysates is crucial. In this work, two tannin-based biopolymers (called A and B) were tested in the detoxification of sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate for subsequent fermentation by Candida guilliermondii. The effects of biopolymer concentration, pH, temperature, and contact time were studied using a 24 experimental design for both biopolymers. Results revealed that the biopolymer concentration and the pH were the most significant factors in the detoxification step. Biopolymer A removed phenolics, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and nickel from the hydrolysate more efficiently than biopolymer B, while biopolymer B was efficient to remove chromium at 15% (v/v). Detoxification enhanced the fermentation of sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate, and the biopolymers showed different influences on the process.
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Evaluation of mean conversion coefficients from air-kerma to H *(10) using secondary and transmitted x-ray spectra in the diagnostic radiology energy range. JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2016; 36:842-857. [PMID: 27739403 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/36/4/842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Ambient dose equivalent H *(10) is an operational quantity recommended by the IAEA to establish dose constraints in area monitoring for external radiation. The direct measurement of H *(10) is not common due to the complexity in the calibration procedures of radiation monitors involving the use of expanded and aligned radiation fields. Therefore, conversion coefficients are used to assess H *(10) from the physical quantity air-kerma. Conversion coefficients published by international commissions, ICRU and ICRP, present a correlation with the radiation beam quality. However, Brazilian regulation establishes 1.14 Sv Gy-1 as unique conversion coefficient to convert air-kerma into H *(10), disregarding its beam quality dependence. The present study computed mean conversion coefficients from secondary and transmitted x-ray beams in order to improve the current assessment of H *(10). The weighting of conversion coefficients corresponding to monoenergetic beams with the spectrum energy distribution in terms of air-kerma was used to compute the mean conversion coefficients. In order to represent dedicated chest radiographic facilities, an anthropomorphic phantom was used as scatter object of the primary beam. Secondary x-ray spectra were measured in the diagnostic energy range at scattering angles of 30°, 60°, 90° 120° and 150° degrees. Barite mortar plates were used as attenuator of the secondary beam to produce the corresponding transmitted x-ray spectra. Results show that the mean conversion coefficients are about 43% higher than the recommended value accepted by Brazilian regulation. For secondary radiation measured at 100 kV the mean coefficient should be 1.46 Sv Gy-1, which represent the higher value in the mean coefficient set corresponding to secondary beams. Moreover, for transmitted x-ray beams at 100 kV, the recommended mean conversion coefficient is 1.65 Sv Gy-1 for all barite mortar plate thickness and all scattering angles. An example of application shows the discrepancy in the evaluation of secondary shielding barriers in a controlled area when the shielding goals is evaluated. The conclusion based on these results is that a unique coefficient may not be adequate for deriving the H *(10).
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How detrimental are seed galls to their hosts? Plant performance, germination, developmental instability and tolerance to herbivory in Inga laurina, a leguminous tree. PLANT BIOLOGY (STUTTGART, GERMANY) 2016; 18:962-972. [PMID: 27543962 DOI: 10.1111/plb.12495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Gall inducers use these structures as shelters and sources of nutrition. Consequently, they cause multiple physiological changes in host plants. We studied the impact caused by seed coat galls of a braconid wasp on the performance of fruits, seeds and seedlings of tree Inga laurina. We tested whether these seed galls are 'nutrient sinks' with respect to the fruit/seed of host plant, and so constrain the reproductive ability and reduce seedling longevity. We measured the influence of such galls on the secondary compounds, fruit and seed parameters, seed viability and germination and seedling performance. Inga laurina has indehiscent legumes with polyembryonic seeds surrounded by a fleshy sarcotesta rich in sugars. The galls formed inside the seed coat and galled tissues presented higher phenol concentrations, around 7-fold that of ungalled tissues. Galls caused a significant reduction in parameters such as fruit and seed size, seed weight and the number of embryos. Fluctuating asymmetry (a stress indicator) was 31% higher in leaves of galled seed plants in comparison to ungalled seed plants. However, the negative effects on fruit and seed parameters were not sufficient to reduce seed germination (except the synchronization index) or seedling performance (except leaf area and chlorophyll content). We attributed these results to the ability of I. laurina to tolerate gall attack on seeds without a marked influence on seedling performance. Moreover, because of the intensity of seed galling on host plant, we suggest that polyembryony may play a role in I. laurina reproduction increasing tolerance to seed damage.
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Evaluation of conversion coefficients relating air-kerma to H*(10) using primary and transmitted x-ray spectra in the diagnostic radiology energy range. JOURNAL OF RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR RADIOLOGICAL PROTECTION 2016; 36:117-132. [PMID: 26835613 DOI: 10.1088/0952-4746/36/1/117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
According to the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU), the relationship between effective dose and incident air-kerma is complex and depends on the attenuation of x-rays in the body. Therefore, it is not practical to use this quantity for shielding design purposes. This correlation is adopted in practical situations by using conversion coefficients calculated using validated mathematical models by the ICRU. The ambient dose equivalent, H*(10), is a quantity adopted by the IAEA for monitoring external exposure. Dose constraint levels are established in terms of H*(10), while the radiation levels in radiometric surveys are calculated by means of the measurements of air-kerma with ion chambers. The resulting measurements are converted into ambient dose equivalents by conversion factors. In the present work, an experimental study of the relationship between the air-kerma and the operational quantity ambient dose equivalent was conducted using different experimental scenarios. This study was done by measuring the primary x-ray spectra and x-ray spectra transmitted through materials used in dedicated chest radiographic facilities, using a CdTe detector. The air-kerma to ambient dose equivalent conversion coefficients were calculated from these measured spectra. The resulting values of the quantity ambient dose equivalent using these conversion coefficients are more realistic than those available in the literature, because they consider the real energy distribution of primary and transmitted x-ray beams. The maximum difference between the obtained conversion coefficients and the constant value recommended in national and international radiation protection standards is 53.4%. The conclusion based on these results is that a constant coefficient may not be adequate for deriving the ambient dose equivalent.
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Successive pretreatment and enzymatic saccharification of sugarcane bagasse in a packed bed flow-through column reactor aiming to support biorefineries. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2016; 203:42-49. [PMID: 26720138 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2015.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
A packed bed flow-through column reactor (PBFTCR) was used for pretreatment and subsequent enzymatic hydrolysis of sugarcane bagasse (SCB). Alkaline pretreatment was performed at 70 °C for 4h with fresh 0.3M NaOH solution or with liquor recycled from a previous pretreatment batch. Scheffersomyces stipitis NRRL-Y7124 was used for fermentation of sugars released after enzymatic hydrolysis (20 FPU g(-1) of dry SCB). The highest results for lignin removal were 61% and 52%, respectively, observed when using fresh NaOH or the first reuse of the liquor. About 50% of cellulosic and 57% of hemicellulosic fractions of pretreated SCBs were enzymatically hydrolyzed and the maximum ethanol production was 23.4 g L(-1) (ethanol yield of 0.4 gp gs(-1)), with near complete consumption of both pentoses and hexoses present in the hydrolysate during the fermentation. PBFTCR as a new alternative for SCB-biorefineries is presented, mainly considering its simple configuration and efficiency for operating with a high solid:liquid ratio.
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Shelter-Building Insects and Their Role as Ecosystem Engineers. NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2016; 45:1-12. [PMID: 26631227 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-015-0348-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Amelioration of harsh conditions, manipulation of host plant quality, and protection from natural enemies have all been suggested as potential forces in the evolution and maintenance of concealed feeding in insects. The construction of shelters--either in the form of mines, galls, and leaf rolls--are expected to increase larval survivorship and might influence other organisms of the community through non-trophic direct and indirect effects when shelters are co-occupied or occupied after abandonment, placing leaf and stem shelter-builders within the context of ecosystem engineering. In this review, we evaluate the potential of shelter built by insects to reduce pressure exerted by natural enemies, increase tissue quality, and provide shelter against abiotic conditions experienced during insect development. Through a quantitative analysis, we also examined the effects of insect shelters on patterns of richness and abundance of local communities, reviewing the data published in the last 15 years. We demonstrate strong effects of shelters on several arthropods, with increased richness and abundance when shelters are present in the host plants. These results reinforce the importance of the physical structures created by insects that although subtle, might have important roles in facilitative interactions.
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Mental health and its relationship on avoidable mortality among Portuguese prison inmates, 2004–2013. Eur J Public Health 2015. [DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckv170.094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Illustrated and annotated checklist of Brazilian gall morphotypes. NEOTROPICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2013; 42:230-9. [PMID: 23949804 DOI: 10.1007/s13744-013-0115-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/25/2013] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
The analysis on nine inventories on the richness and diversity of galling herbivores in Brazil accounted for 806 gall systems occurring in 443 host-plant species from 74 plant families. This checklist of the Brazilian gall morphotypes proposes seven standardized morphotypes and five additional shapes that group the majority of the three-dimensional shapes reported in literature. Criteria are proposed to standardize the terminology, and a critical analysis is provided aiming to avoid possible inconsistencies in order to generate easily comparable data in future inventories. The morphotypes are herein catalogued in alphabetical order, accompanied by a conceptual definition, an illustration, and examples that best represent the shape. It is proposed that the inventories should present at least the (1) host-plant species, (2) galling herbivore species or its identification to the lowest possible taxonomic level, (3) host-plant galled organ and gall position, (4) gall morphotype, (5) gall color and registration of indumentum when present, (6) gall phenological and developmental data, (7) association with other trophic levels, and (8) additional information, such as dimension, and number of chamber(s).
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Steam Reforming of Ethanol on Copper Catalysts Derived from Hydrotalcite-like Materials. Ind Eng Chem Res 2012. [DOI: 10.1021/ie301645f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Adsorbent Evaluation Based on Experimental Breakthrough Curves: Separation ofp-Xylene from C8Isomers. Chem Eng Technol 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/ceat.201100672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Sorption-Enhanced Steam Reforming of Ethanol: Thermodynamic Comparison of CO2 Sorbents. Chem Eng Technol 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/ceat.201100534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Up-regulation of chemokine C-C ligand 2 (CCL2) and C-X-C chemokine 8 (CXCL8) expression by monocytes in chronic idiopathic urticaria. Clin Exp Immunol 2012; 167:129-36. [PMID: 22132892 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2011.04485.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The disturbed cytokine-chemokine network could play an important role in the onset of diseases with inflammatory processes such as chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). Our main objectives were to evaluate the relation between proinflammatory chemokine serum levels from CIU patients and their response to autologous skin test (ASST) and basophil histamine release (BHR). We also aimed to assess the chemokine secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) upon polyclonal stimulus and to evaluate chemokine C-C ligand 2/C-X-C chemokine 8 (CCL2/CXCL8) and Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) expression in monocytes. We observed significantly higher serum levels of the CXCL8, CXCL9, CXCL10 and CCL2 in CIU patients compared to the healthy group, regardless of the BHR or ASST response. The basal secretion of CCL2 by PBMC or induced by Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin A (SEA) was higher in CIU patients than in the control group, as well as for CXCL8 and CCL5 secretions upon phytohaemagglutinin stimulation. Also, up-regulation of CCL2 and CXCL8 mRNA expression was found in monocytes of patients upon SEA stimulation. The findings showed a high responsiveness of monocytes through CCL2/CXCL8 expression, contributing to the creation of a proinflammatory environment in CIU.
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Steam reforming of ethanol on a Ni/Al2O3catalyst coupled with a hydrotalcite-like sorbent in a multilayer pattern for co2uptake. CAN J CHEM ENG 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/cjce.20662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Diversity of gall-inducing insects in the high altitude wetland forests in Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil. BRAZ J BIOL 2011; 71:47-56. [PMID: 21437398 DOI: 10.1590/s1519-69842011000100008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2009] [Accepted: 08/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
We report on the richness of galling insects in the altitudinal wetland forests of Pernambuco State, Northeastern Brazil. We found 80 distinct types of insect galls on 49 species of host plants belonging to 28 families and 35 genera. Most of the galled plant species belong to Nyctaginaceae, Fabaceae, Meliaceae, Sapindaceae and Myrtaceae. The most common gall were spheroid and globoid; most galls were glabrous, predominantly green and with one chamber, and on the leaves. Most galls were induced by Cecidomyiidae (Diptera). The results of this study contribute to existing knowledge richness of galling insects and host-plant diversity in the altitudinal wetland forests of Northeastern Brazil.
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Plant Vigor Hypothesis refuted: preference-performance linkage of a gall-inducing weevil on small-sized host plant resources. BRAZ J BIOL 2011; 71:65-9. [PMID: 21437400 DOI: 10.1590/s1519-69842011000100010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2009] [Accepted: 04/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Plant Vigor Hypothesis (PVH) predicts an oviposition preference of females and higher offspring performance for insect herbivores on longer and fast-growing plant modules. We tested the PVH predictions by investigating the effects of leaf size of Miconia prasina (Sw.) DC. (Melastomataceae) on the oviposition preference and on the offspring survival of the gall-inducing weevil Prospoliata bicolorata (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Additionally, we analysed the effects of top-down mortality force on this system. Approximately 83% of the developed galls resulted in adults of P. bicolorata, whereas 17% of the galls successfully induced were killed by natural enemies (top-down effect). Leaves of intermediate size were more abundant while smaller and longer leaves were rare. Nevertheless, the percentage of P. bicolorata galls was higher on the smallest leaves of M. prasina, refuting the preference prediction of the PVH. Our results also refuted the performance prediction: the ratio of survival per leaf was negatively related to the leaf length. Thus, we found a link between female preference and larval performance of P. bicolorata on small-sized leaves of M. prasina. The next goal is to understand the mechanisms involved in the selection of gall-inducing weevil on short leaves of its host plant.
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Contamination of Zeolites Used in Oxygen Production by PSA: Effects of Water and Carbon Dioxide. Ind Eng Chem Res 2008. [DOI: 10.1021/ie800024c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Comparison of techniques for the determination of conversion during suspension polymerization reactions. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING 2008. [DOI: 10.1590/s0104-66322008000200017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Activated status of basophils in chronic urticaria leads to interleukin-3 hyper-responsiveness and enhancement of histamine release induced by anti-IgE stimulus. Br J Dermatol 2008; 158:979-86. [PMID: 18341658 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2008.08499.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Basophils and mast cells are the main target cells in chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). Besides the basopenia, intrinsic defects of the anti-IgE cross-linking signalling pathway of basophils have been described in CIU. OBJECTIVES We sought to investigate the profile of expression of activation markers on basophils of patients with CIU and to explore the effect of interleukin (IL)-3 priming upon anti-IgE cross-linking stimuli through expression of activation markers and basophil histamine releasability. METHODS Evaluation of the surface expression of FcepsilonRIalpha, CD63, CD203c and CD123 on whole blood basophils of patients with CIU undergoing autologous serum skin test (ASST) was performed by flow cytometry. The effect of pretreatment with IL-3 in the anti-IgE response was analysed by the expression of basophil activation markers and histamine release using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS Blood basophils of patients with CIU were reduced in number and displayed increased surface expression of FcepsilonRIalpha, which was positively correlated with the IgE serum levels. Upregulation of expression of both surface markers CD203c and CD63 was verified on basophils of patients with CIU, regardless of ASST response. High expression of IL-3 receptor on basophils was detected only in ASST+ patients with CIU. Pretreatment with IL-3 upregulated CD203c expression concomitantly with the excreting function of blood basophils and induced a quick hyper-responsiveness to anti-IgE cross-linking on basophils of patients with CIU compared with healthy controls. CONCLUSIONS Basophils of patients with CIU showed an activated profile, possibly due to an in vivo priming. Functionally, basophils have high responsiveness to IL-3 stimulation, thereby suggesting that defects in the signal transduction pathway after IgE cross-linking stimuli are recoverable in subjects with chronic urticaria.
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Associations among immunological, parasitological and clinical parameters in canine visceral leishmaniasis: Emaciation, spleen parasitism, specific antibodies and leishmanin skin test reaction. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2008; 123:251-9. [PMID: 18359091 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2008.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2007] [Revised: 12/27/2007] [Accepted: 02/08/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Associations among parameters commonly used as markers of infection by Leishmania sp., or of susceptibility to visceral leishmaniasis, were investigated in 325 stray dogs from an area where this disease is endemic. Evidence of infection (presence of Leishmania in splenic cultures, positive leishmanin skin test (LST) or detection of anti-Leishmania antibody activity in the serum) was found in 57% of the animals. Both evidence of weight loss (chi(2)-test, P=0.0005) and presence of specific antibody activity in the serum (chi(2)-test, P<0.0001) were directly associated with positive splenic culture. The frequencies of animals with positive splenic culture were directly correlated with the intensities of antibody activity in the serum as measured by ELISA (relative risk of 3.4 for animals with moderate antibody levels and relative risk of 8.43 for animals with high-antibody levels). A negative association was observed between positive leishmanin skin test results and emaciation (chi(2), P=0.0089). Furthermore, animals with positive splenic cultures and negative leishmanin skin test results had higher levels of total serum IgG (Kruskal-Wallis test, P=0.001) and IgG2 (Kruskal-Wallis test, P=0.05) than animals with negative splenic cultures, and were more emaciated than animals with negative LST results and positive splenic cultures. The data presented herein suggest that associating these common parameters may improve their performance in predicting susceptibility to canine visceral leishmaniasis.
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Characterization ofCandida rugosa Lipase Immobilized on Poly(N-methylolacrylamide) and Its Application in Butyl Butyrate Synthesis. Chem Eng Technol 2007. [DOI: 10.1002/ceat.200700153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Repeated-Batch Xylitol Bioproduction Using Yeast Cells Entrapped in Polyvinyl Alcohol–Hydrogel. Curr Microbiol 2007; 54:91-6. [PMID: 17211545 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-005-0465-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2005] [Accepted: 06/13/2006] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Xylose-to-xylitol conversion was investigated in a bench-scale bioreactor using Candida guilliermondii cells entrapped within polyvinyl alcohol-hydrogel beads in a system operated in repeated-batch mode with cell recycling. Yeast-viable cells were immobilized in the support using the freezing-thawing method. Bioconversion assays were performed in a stirred tank reactor operated at 400-rpm agitation speed, 30 degrees C temperature, and 1.04-vvm air flow rate. The system was explored during six successive cycles, and a small decrease in the conversion performance in the fifth cycle was observed, but the biocatalytic activity of the microorganism was recovered in the sixth cycle after washing the particles. During the process, the hydrogel beads maintained their shape and size without appreciable deterioration. Xylitol production, yield factor, and volumetric productivity increased with progressive recycling of cells and achieved their maximum values (P(F) = 39.7 g l(-1); Y(P/S) = 0.77 g g(-1); Q(P) = 0.53 g l(-1) h(-1), respectively) after the third cell recycling, probably because of cells' adaptation to the medium.
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Abstract
The electron localization function (ELF) has been separated in its sigma and pi components. The topological analysis of the new ELFsigma and ELFpi functions has been used to quantify the concept of resonance. The highest bifurcation values of these functions describe in a correct way the aromaticity of classical ring molecules and some new aromatic compounds as B6CO6, Al4(2-), and N5-. In the case of Al4(2-), an important sigma delocalization contribution has been found, which is in agreement with previous interpretation.
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Immobilized cells cultivated in semi-continuous mode in a fluidized bed reactor for xylitol production from sugarcane bagasse. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2005. [DOI: 10.1007/s11274-004-3490-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the mite fauna present in 33 living room and 22 bedroom curtain dust samples from 41 different homes in the southern Brazilian city of Campinas, SP. A total of 148 mite bodies were found. Of these, 83 were found in living-room curtain samples (56.1% of total) and 65 were in bedroom curtain dust samples (43.9%). The most frequently observed mite suborders were: Acaridida (n = 79; 53.4%), Actinedida (n = 53; 35.8%), Oribatida (n = 14; 9.5%), and Gamasida (n = 2; 1.3%). The most frequent families were Pyroglyphidae (n = 61; 41.2%), Eriophyidae (n = 25; 16.9%), Tarsonemidae (n = 15; 10.1%), and Glycyphagidae (n = 13; 8.8%). No statistical difference was observed between the number of mites found in the samples from living room and bedroom curtains.
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Xylitol production from sugarcane bagasse hydrolyzate in fluidized bed reactor. Effect of air flowrate. Biotechnol Prog 2003; 19:1210-5. [PMID: 12892483 DOI: 10.1021/bp034042d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cells of Candida guilliermondii immobilized onto porous glass spheres were cultured batchwise in a fluidized bed bioreactor for xylitol production from sugarcane bagasse hemicellulose hydrolyzate. An aeration rate of only 25 mL/min ensured minimum yields of xylose consumption (0.60) and biomass production (0.14 g(DM)/g(Xyl)), as well as maximum xylitol yield (0.54 g(Xyt)/g(Xyl)) and ratio of immobilized to total cells (0.83). These results suggest that cell metabolism, although slow because of oxygen limitation, was mainly addressed to xylitol production. A progressive increase in the aeration rate up to 140 mL/min accelerated both xylose consumption (from 0.36 to 0.78 g(Xyl)/L.h) and xylitol formation (from 0.19 to 0.28 g(Xyt)/L.h) but caused the fraction of immobilized to total cells and the xylitol yield to decrease up to 0.22 and 0.36 g(Xyt)/g(Xyl), respectively. The highest xylitol concentration (17.0 g(Xyt)/L) was obtained at 70 mL/min, but the specific xylitol productivity and the xylitol yield were 43% and 22% lower than the corresponding values obtained at the lowest air flowrate, respectively. The concentrations of consumed substrates and formed products were used in material balances to evaluate the xylose fractions consumed by C. guilliermondii for xylitol production, complete oxidation through the hexose monophosphate shunt, and cell growth. The experimental data collected at variable oxygen level allowed estimating a P/O ratio of 1.35 mol(ATP)/mol(O) and overall ATP requirements for biomass growth and maintenance of 3.4 mol(ATP)/C-mol(DM).
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Effect of pentagastrin on the motor activity of the dilated and nondilated sigmoid and rectum in Chagas' disease. Digestion 2001; 27:152-8. [PMID: 6414867 DOI: 10.1159/000198945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In order to evaluate the effect of pentagastrin on the motor activity of the sigmoid and rectum in patients with Chagas' disease, manometric studies were performed on 22 chagasic patients, 11 without and 11 with megacolon, and 11 control subjects. Pentagastrin had a stimulating effect on the sigmoid and rectum in control subjects as well as in chagasic patients without megacolon. In chagasic patients with megacolon, pentagastrin had no effect on sigmoid or rectum motility, probably as a result of the intrinsic denervation known to occur in this disease. The findings suggest that the motor effect of pentagastrin on the human sigmoid and rectum depends on the myenteric nervous pathways.
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[Cyclosporin A inhibits the response of osmotic water permeability to antidiuretic hormone in toad's bladder and to angiotensin II and antidiuretic hormone in toad's skin]. Nefrologia 2001; 21:59-64. [PMID: 11344963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to assess the effects of cyclosporine A (CyA) in the osmotic water flow response of isolated toad bladder to arginine-vasotocin (AVT) and to angiotensin II (Ang II) and AVT in isolated toad skin. CyA added to the dermal side of isolated toad skin or to the serosal side of toad bladder in concentrations of 0.42. 10(-6) M to 0.42. 10(-7) M had no effect on basal osmotic water permeability (Posm) but inhibited the hormonal response to AVT in both membranes (AVT 10(-10) M in toad bladder and 10(-8) to 10(-9) M in toad skin). CyA also inhibited the Posm response to Ang II (10(-7) M) in toad skin in concentrations of 0.42. 10(-6) M and 0.42. 10(-7) M. In toad bladder it could be demonstrated that the inhibitory effect was reversible. CyA in concentrations of 0.42. 10(-6) M inhibited the Posm response of toad skin to theophylline (3.2. 10(-3) M) and to dibutyryl cyclic AMP (6.3. 10(-3) M) suggesting an effect distal to the generation of cyclic AMP. These responses would support the possibility of a diuretic effect in the mammalian nephron.
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Abstract
Angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) increased osmotic water permeability in the isolated toad skin, a tissue with functional properties similar to those of the distal mammalian nephron. Concentrations of 0.1 to 10 microM were effective, with a peak at 20 min. This effect was similar in magnitude to that of frog skin angiotensin II (Ang II) and oxytocin but lower than that of human Ang II and arginine-vasotocin. The AT2 angiotensin receptor antagonist PD 123319 (1.0 microM) fully inhibited the response to 0.1 microM Ang-(1-7) but had no effect on the response to Ang II at the same concentration. The specific receptor antagonist of Ang-(1-7), A-779, was ineffective in blocking the response to Ang-(1-7) and to frog skin Ang II. The AT1 receptor subtype antagonist losartan, which blocked the response to frog skin Ang II, was ineffective in blocking the response to Ang-(1-7). The present results support the view of an antidiuretic action of Ang-(1-7) in the mammalian nephron.
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[Trends in hospital admissions for pediatric asthma in childrenduring a period of eighteen years]. J Pediatr (Rio J) 1999; 75:249-55. [PMID: 14685526 DOI: 10.2223/jped.316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To study trends in hospital admissions for acute pediatric asthma in the Hospital da Santa Casa do Rio Grande during the period of 1979 to 1996. METHODS: This is a study of a series of cases. We reviewed all the discharge records of pediatric patients with diagnosis of acute asthma, pneumonia, and bronchiolitis within the period mentioned above. The main variable in this study was the percentage of admissions for acute asthma in relation to the total amount of hospital admissions. The percentages of admissions for bronchiolitis and pneumonia in relation to the total amount of hospital admissions were also calculated as reference values. RESULTS: There were 3,493 admissions for acute asthma in 3,122 patients during the studied period, with an average of 194 admissions per year. The percentage of admissions for acute asthma to total hospital admissions increased from 5,5% to 14,7% between 1983/84 and 1991/92. Half of this increase occurred during the period 1987-1992 in which hospitalizations for bronchiolitis and pneumonia were stable. This percentage decreased from 14,7% to 10,6% in the period of 1991/92 - 1995/96. CONCLUSIONS: There was a significant increase in hospital admissions for acute pediatric asthma in the Hospital da Santa Casa do Rio Grande during the period of 1983 - 1992. From then on, hospital admissions for asthma showed downward trends.
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