Respiratory mechanics and morphometric changes during anesthesia with ketamine in normal rats

Ketamine is believed to reduce airway and pulmonary tissue resistance. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of ketamine on the resistive, elastic and viscoelastic/inhomogeneous mechanical properties of the respiratory system, lungs and chest wall, and to relate the mechanical data to findings from histological lung analysis in normal animals. Fifteen adult male Wistar rats were assigned randomly to two groups: control (N = 7) and ketamine (N = 8). All animals were sedated (diazepam, 5 mg, ip) and anesthetized with pentobarbital sodium (20 mg/kg, ip) or ketamine (30 mg/kg, ip). The rats were paralyzed and ventilated mechanically. Ketamine increased lung viscoelastic/inhomogeneous pressure (26%) compared to the control group. Dynamic and static elastances were similar in both groups, but the difference was greater in the ketamine than in the control group. Lung morphometry demonstrated dilation of alveolar ducts and increased areas of alveolar collapse in the ketamine group. In conclusion, ketamine did not act at the airway level but acted at the lung periphery increasing mechanical inhomogeneities possibly resulting from dilation of distal airways and alveolar collapse.

Immunohistochemical demonstration of TGF-ß and decorin in paracoccidioidal granulomas

Different patterns of granulomas have been observed in 6- to 8-week-old mice after ip inoculation with 5 x 10(6) yeast cells of Paracoccidioides brasiliensis. Transforming growth factor-ß (TGF-ß) is a cytokine that has been shown to participate in fibrosis and granuloma formation; its activities seem to be modulated by the small proteoglycan decorin. In the present study, TGF-ß and decorin expression in epiploon granulomas was assessed by immunohistochemistry in susceptible (B10.A) and resistant (A/J) mice after 15, 30, 120 and 150 days of P. brasiliensis ip infection. The epiploon was collected, fixed in Methacarn solution and embedded in paraffin, and 5-µm thick sections were used for immunohistochemical analysis employing the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase technique. The former mouse strain developed fatal disease with many disseminated lesions increasing in size and number during the infection and the latter developed mild disease with the presence of encapsulated granulomas. In the epiploon, TGF-ß was present on macrophages, giant cells, lymphocytes and fibroblasts, and absent on neutrophils. It was also detected in areas of fibrosis and necrosis, as well as disperse in amorphous extracellular matrix, mostly in resistant mice. Decorin was present circumscribing macrophages and giant cells containing fungi, but absent on these cells. In both mouse strains, decorin was found at the periphery of the lesions, and markedly in milky spot granulomas. In resistant mice, positivity was found around fibrotic and necrotic areas of encapsulated and residual lesions containing lysed fungi. Decorin was found associated with thick fibers around encapsulated lesions. In susceptible mice, the size and number of lesions increased with the progression of the disease and were correlated with the weaker expression of decorin. We suggest an association of decorin with the fibrogenic process observed in paracoccidioidal granulomas.

Evaluation of stunned and infarcted canine myocardium by real time myocardial contrast echocardiography

Differentiation between stunned and infarcted myocardium in the setting of acute ischemia is challenging. Real time myocardial contrast echocardiography allows the simultaneous assessment of myocardial perfusion and function. In the present study we evaluated infarcted and stunned myocardium in an experimental model using real time myocardial contrast echocardiography. Sixteen dogs underwent 180 min of coronary occlusion followed by reperfusion (infarct model) and seven other dogs were submitted to 20 min of coronary occlusion followed by reperfusion (stunned model). Wall motion abnormality and perfusional myocardial defect areas were measured by planimetry. Risk and infarct areas were determined by tissue staining. In the infarct model, the wall motion abnormality area during coronary occlusion (5.52 ± 1.14 cm²) was larger than the perfusional myocardial defect area (3.71 ± 1.45 cm²; P < 0.001). Reperfusion resulted in maintenance of wall motion abnormality (5.45 ± 1.41 cm²; P = 0.43 versus occlusion) and reduction of perfusional myocardial defect (1.51 ± 1.29 cm²; P = 0.004 versus occlusion). Infarct size determined by contrast echocardiography correlated with tissue staining (r = 0.71; P = 0.002). In the stunned model, the wall motion abnormality area was 5.49 ± 0.68 cm² during occlusion and remained 5.1 ± 0.63 cm² after reperfusion (P = 0.07). Perfusional defect area was 2.43 ± 0.79 cm² during occlusion and was reduced to 0.2 ± 0.53 cm² after reperfusion (P = 0.04). 2,3,5-Triphenyl tetrazolium chloride staining confirmed the absence of necrotic myocardium in all dogs in the stunned model. Real time myocardial contrast echocardiography is a noninvasive technique capable of distinguishing between stunned and infarcted myocardium after acute ischemia.

Analyzing the Effects of the New Renewable Energy Policy in Russia on Investments into Wind, Solar and Small Hydro Power

This thesis presents an analysis of recently enacted Russian renewable energy policy based on capacity mechanism. Considering its novelty and poor coverage by academic literature, the aim of the thesis is to analyze capacity mechanism influence on investors’ decision-making process. The current research introduces a number of approaches to investment analysis. Firstly, classical financial model was built with Microsoft Excel® and crisp efficiency indicators such as net present value were determined. Secondly, sensitivity analysis was performed to understand different factors influence on project profitability. Thirdly, Datar-Mathews method was applied that by means of Monte Carlo simulation realized with Matlab Simulink®, disclosed all possible outcomes of investment project and enabled real option thinking. Fourthly, previous analysis was duplicated by fuzzy pay-off method with Microsoft Excel®. Finally, decision-making process under capacity mechanism was illustrated with decision tree. Capacity remuneration paid within 15 years is calculated individually for each RE project as variable annuity that guarantees a particular return on investment adjusted on changes in national interest rates. Analysis results indicate that capacity mechanism creates a real option to invest in renewable energy project by ensuring project profitability regardless of market conditions if project-internal factors are managed properly. The latter includes keeping capital expenditures within set limits, production performance higher than 75% of target indicators, and fulfilling localization requirement, implying producing equipment and services within the country. Occurrence of real option shapes decision-making process in the following way. Initially, investor should define appropriate location for a planned power plant where high production performance can be achieved, and lock in this location in case of competition. After, investor should wait until capital cost limit and localization requirement can be met, after that decision to invest can be made without any risk to project profitability. With respect to technology kind, investment into solar PV power plant is more attractive than into wind or small hydro power, since it has higher weighted net present value and lower standard deviation. However, it does not change decision-making strategy that remains the same for each technology type. Fuzzy pay-method proved its ability to disclose the same patterns of information as Monte Carlo simulation. Being effective in investment analysis under uncertainty and easy in use, it can be recommended as sufficient analytical tool to investors and researchers. Apart from described results, this thesis contributes to the academic literature by detailed description of capacity price calculation for renewable energy that was not available in English before. With respect to methodology novelty, such advanced approaches as Datar-Mathews method and fuzzy pay-off method are applied on the top of investment profitability model that incorporates capacity remuneration calculation as well. Comparison of effects of two different RE supporting schemes, namely Russian capacity mechanism and feed-in premium, contributes to policy comparative studies and exhibits useful inferences for researchers and policymakers. Limitations of this research are simplification of assumptions to country-average level that restricts our ability to analyze renewable energy investment region wise and existing limitation of the studying policy to the wholesale power market that leaves retail markets and remote areas without our attention, taking away medium and small investment into renewable energy from the research focus. Elimination of these limitations would allow creating the full picture of Russian renewable energy investment profile.

Comparison of blood neoangiogenesis and lymphatic vascularization in colorectal adenomas from patients with and without concomitant colorectal cancer

Blood and lymphatic vessel proliferation is essential for tumor growth and progression. Most colorectal carcinomas develop from adenomas (adenoma-carcinoma sequence) in a process due to accumulation of molecular genetic alterations. About 5% of adenomatous polyps are expected to become malignant, but data on the differential angiogenic patterns of these lesions in patients with and without concomitant cancer are missing. The aim of the present study is to compare the angiogenic and lymphatic patterns of adenomatous polyps from patients with and without sporadic cancer. Thirty adenomatous polyps (15 from patients with another principal malignant lesion, and 15 from patients without cancer) were submitted to immunohistochemical staining for CD105 (marker for neoangiogenesis) and D2-40 (marker for lymphatic endothelium). Microvessel density and total vascular area were determined by computer image analysis to quantify the immunostained and total areas, and to assess the number of microvessels. Adenomas from patients with carcinoma showed significantly higher values of total vascular area determined by immunostaining for CD105 (cutoff value = 4386 µm²; P = 0.019) and of lymphatic microvessel density determined by immunostaining with D2-40 (cutoff value = 11.5; P = 0.041) when compared with those from patients without cancer. The present data indicate a significant increase in blood microvascular area and in lymphatic microvascular counts in adenomas removed from patients with cancer.

Vascular dysfunction by myofibroblast activation in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and prognostic significance

In this study, we demonstrated the importance of telomerase protein expression and determined the relationships among telomerase, endothelin-1 (ET-1) and myofibroblasts during early and late remodeling of parenchymal and vascular areas in usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) using 27 surgical lung biopsies from patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Telomerase+, myofibroblasts α-SMA+, smooth muscle cells caldesmon+, endothelium ET-1+ cellularity, and fibrosis severity were evaluated in 30 fields covering normal lung parenchyma, minimal fibrosis (fibroblastic foci), severe (mural) fibrosis, and vascular areas of UIP by the point-counting technique and a semiquantitative score. The impact of these markers was determined in pulmonary functional tests and follow-up until death from IPF. Telomerase and ET-1 expression was significantly increased in normal and vascular areas compared to areas of fibroblast foci. Telomerase and ET-1 expression was inversely correlated with minimal fibrosis in areas of fibroblast foci and directly associated with severe fibrosis in vascular areas. Telomerase activity in minimal fibrosis areas was directly associated with diffusing capacity of the lung for oxygen/alveolar volume and ET-1 expression and indirectly associated with diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide and severe fibrosis in vascular areas. Cox proportional hazards regression revealed a low risk of death for females with minimal fibrosis displaying high telomerase and ET-1 expression in normal areas. Vascular dysfunction by telomerase/ET-1 expression was found earlier than vascular remodeling by myofibroblast activation in UIP with impact on IPF evolution, suggesting that strategies aimed at preventing the effect of these mediators may have a greater impact on patient outcome.

Striatal and extrastriatal dopamine D2/3 receptors studied with [11C]raclopride and high-resolution PET

The human striatum is a heterogeneous structure representing a major part of the dopamine (DA) system’s basal ganglia input and output. Positron emission tomography (PET) is a powerful tool for imaging DA neurotransmission. However, PET measurements suffer from bias caused by the low spatial resolution, especially when imaging small, D2/3 -rich structures such as the ventral striatum (VST). The brain dedicated high-resolution PET scanner, ECAT HRRT (Siemens Medical Solutions, Knoxville, TN, USA) has superior resolution capabilities than its predecessors. In the quantification of striatal D2/3 binding, the in vivo highly selective D2/3 antagonist [11C] raclopride is recognized as a well-validated tracer. The aim of this thesis was to use a traditional test-retest setting to evaluate the feasibility of utilizing the HRRT scanner for exploring not only small brain regions such as the VST but also low density D2/3 areas such as cortex. It was demonstrated that the measurement of striatal D2/3 binding was very reliable, even when studying small brain structures or prolonging the scanning interval. Furthermore, the cortical test-retest parameters displayed good to moderate reproducibility. For the first time in vivo, it was revealed that there are significant divergent rostrocaudal gradients of [11C]raclopride binding in striatal subregions. These results indicate that high-resolution [11C]raclopride PET is very reliable and its improved sensitivity means that it should be possible to detect the often very subtle changes occurring in DA transmission. Another major advantage is the possibility to measure simultaneously striatal and cortical areas. The divergent gradients of D2/3 binding may have functional significance and the average distribution binding could serve as the basis for a future database. Key words: dopamine, PET, HRRT, [11C]raclopride, striatum, VST, gradients, test-retest.

Effect of enzymatic hydrolysis on some physicochemical properties of root and tuber granular starches

Enzymatic hydrolysis of granular starch is an important tool to provide information about granule structure. Cassava, sweet potato, Peruvian carrot, and potato starches were hydrolyzed by bacterial α-amylase at 37 °C for 48 hours, and the physicochemical properties of the residues from hydrolysis were determined. Cassava starch was the most susceptible to enzyme displaying 20.9% of hydrolysis, whereas potato starch was the most resistant with 5.9%. The granule average size varied from 10.8 to 23.4 μm for Peruvian carrot and potato starches, respectively. With the use of SEM, a smooth granule surface was observed for all native starches. Cassava and sweet potato starches displayed an A-type X-ray diffraction pattern, while Peruvian carrot and potato starches showed a B-type pattern. After hydrolysis, cassava, sweet potato, and Peruvian carrot starches showed some well degraded granules, whereas potato starch presented a slight sign of degradation. The amylose content of the starches decreased with hydrolysis for cassava, sweet potato, and Peruvian carrot starches and was kept unchanged for the potato starch. As expected, intrinsic viscosity and pasting properties decreased for all hydrolyzed starches. There is no difference between thermal properties of native and hydrolyzed starches. These results suggested that hydrolysis occurred in amorphous and crystalline areas of the granules. The B type diffraction pattern in conjunction with the big granule size of the potato starch may have contributed to the greatest resistance of this starch to hydrolysis.

Dyadic Relationship and Quality of Life Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease

AbstractIintroduction:Chronic Renal insufficiency (CRI) and dialysis treatment lead to a succession of situations for kidney chronic patient, which compromises his aspect, not only physically, and psychologically, with personal, family and social repercussions.Objective:(1) to verify the existence of differences of dyadic adjustment (DA) according to renal replacement treatment (RRT) and (2) verify the existence of differences quality of life (QOL) in accordance with the RRT.Methods:This is a cross-sectional study of a descriptive nature through surveys, exploratory and correlational. The sample consisted of 125 participants. Of these, 31 were to be made RRT by automated peritoneal dialysis (APD) and 94 hemodialysis (HD). Participants were selected from three renal centers: (1) Centro Renal da Prelada (Porto, Portugal), (2) Centrodial (S. João da Madeira, Portugal) and Centro Renal da Misericórdia de Paredes (Paredes, Portugal). The study was carried out for 6 months. The following instruments were applied: Socio-demographic and clinical questionnaire (SDCQ), Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS), World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-Bref).Results:The results demonstrate the existence of statistically significant differences between the type of RRT and most areas of QOL, as well as the existence of statistically significant differences between the subscales of the DAS evaluated and the type of RRT.Conclusion:The present study demonstrates a greater commitment in terms of QOL of individuals undergoing treatment for HD when compared with those subjected to APD. It turns out, also, that DA is most strongly perceived by patients in APD than with HD.

Storage of Tabebuia caraiba (Mart.) Bureau seeds in different packaging and temperatures

Tabebuia caraiba (Mart.) Bureau, commonly known as Silver Trumpet Tree is a forestal species, belonging to Bignoniaceae family, which can be utilized as medicinal plant or in landscaping of urban and rural areas; besides producing large mechanical resistance wood. Despite its wide use and ecological importance, basic studies on storages of their seeds are scarce. This way, the objective of this study was to determine the most adequate packaging and the best temperatures, for storing seeds of T. caraiba. For this, seeds were stored in two types of packaging: Kraft paper bags and transparent polyethylene bags; which were then stored during 150 days under three different environments: laboratory normal environment (25±2 °C); cold chamber (8±2 °C); and refrigerator (6±2 °C). After periods of 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, and 150 days, seed moisture content, percentage of emergence, emergence speed index, and seedling length were evaluated. Seeds of T. caraiba kept in packaging of paper and polyethylene bags and stored at laboratory environmental condition, have lost more quickly their vigor along the storage period. For storage, it is recommended the maintenance of T. caraiba seeds in polyethylene bags into cold chamber; and/or polyethylene bags or Kraft paper bags into refrigerator.

Environmental assessment of Lake Gibson sediments, water quality, and soils of the Niagara Region

In light of the fact that literature on toxicity of heavy metals in non-acidified freshwater systems is sparse, this project was initiated to conduct an environmental assessment of Lake Gibson. Chemistry of soils from adjacent areas and vineyards in the region provide a comparative background database. Water quality determinations were used to identify and highlight areas of environmental concern within the Lake Gibson watershed. A Shelby Corer was used to obtain 66 sediment cores from Lake Gibson. These were sectioned according to lithology and color to yield 298 samples. A suite of 122 soil samples was collected in the region and vicinity of Lake Gibson. All were tested for metals and some for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH). Evaluation of the results leads to the following conclusions: 1. Metal concentrations ofAI, Cd, Cu, Cr, Pb, Ni, Fe and Zn in soils from the Niagara Region are well below background limits set by the Ministry of the Environment and Energy (MOEE) for provincial soils. 2. There is a spatial and depth difference for some of the metals within the various soils. The Cr, Ni and Pb contents of soils vary throughout the region (pand in some instances they also exceed the SEL (Severe Effect Level) guideline. In this instance acute toxicity testing of 11 the sediments is required to assess impact on the aquatic biota. 5. Specifically, effluents and discharges from outfalls, roadways, railways and industrial activities are all degrading the local ecosystem. 6. Mineral oil and greases are a major environmental concern in the sediments of Lake Gibson. Ofthe 240 samples tested for TPH, 200 samples exceed the MOEE Open Water Disposal Guideline of 1,500 mg/kg. 7. Four areas within Lake Gibson are especially degraded with respect to TPH. One area is just downstream from the Old WeIland Canal divergence point and waterfall. Other areas of concern are located just south of Beaverdams Road and just west ofthe Ontario Hydro control pipes; south ofthe Village ofBeaverdams. The fourth area of environmental concern and TPH impact is located between Highway 406 and Merrittville Highway.

The Relationship between Participation in an Exercise Program and Body Image in Post-Menopausal Women Self-Reporting Osteoporosis

The current study investigated body image differences in post-menopausal women who self-reported having (SRO) or not having (SRN) osteoporosis and the impact of a 16-week exercise program on body image in these groups. Participants completed a measure of body image, and were randomly assigned to a 16-week exercise program or control group, stratified by self-reported osteoporosis status. After 16 weeks, they completed the same body image measure. There were no differences in body image between the two osteoporosis groups. The exercise intervention had a positive impact on body image for both the SRO and SRN groups. The exercise groups showed increases in fitness and health orientation and body areas satisfaction from baseline to 16-weeks, while the non-exercise group showed decreases in appearance and health evaluation, health orientation and body areas satisfaction. The results suggest an exercise program for post-menopausal women can lead to improvements in body image, regardless of osteoporosis status.

Albert and Josephine Sloman [n.d.]

A coloured photographic portrait of Albert and Josephine Sloman. The location and date of the photograph are unknown. The Sloman - Bell families were from the St. Catharines and London areas of Ontario. Their descendants include former African American slaves who settled in Canada. This photo was in the possession of Albert and Josephine Sloman's grandson, Rick Bell, of St. Catharines.

Learning and Experiential Outcomes of Face-to-Face Versus Online Communications Courses

Higher education is rapidly trending toward the implementation of online (OL) courses and a blended facilitation style that incorporates both OL and face-to-face (FTF) classes. Though previous studies have explored the benefits and pitfalls of OL and blended learning formats from institutional, teacher, and student perspectives, scant research has examined learning outcomes for OL and FTF courses sharing identical content. This study used an explanatory mixed methods design—including pre- and post-test assessments, a questionnaire, and interviews—to explore similarities and differences in participant and teacher perceptions and outcomes (gain scores and final grades) of OL versus traditional FTF Communications courses, and to examine effects of students’ age and gender on learning preference and performance. Data collection occurred over a 4-month period and involved 183 student and 2 professor participants. The study used an SPSS program for data analysis and created a Microsoft Excel document to record themes derived from the questionnaire and interviews. Quantitative findings suggest there are no significant differences in gain scores, final grades, or other learning outcomes when comparing OL and FTF versions of identical Communications courses; however, qualitative findings indicate differences between facilitation styles based on student and professor perception. The study sheds light on student and faculty perceptions of facilitation styles and suggests areas for potential improvements in FTF- and OL-facilitated courses. The study ultimately recommends that students and faculty should have options when it comes to preferred delivery of course material.

Needs of High Functioning Teenagers and Adults with Autism (Tips from a Recovered Autistic)

Some of the topics discussed in the article include: Direct Fixations, Gradual Introduction to a Career, Talent and Deficit Areas, Thinking in Pictures, Reading and Language, Social Problems, Recognize Need for Change, Cognitive Differences, Constant Anxiety, Improvement Takes Time, Family Background and Depression, Sensory Problems, Aggressive and Self-Injurious Behavior.