Genetic polymorphisms involved in folate metabolism and concentrations of methylmalonic acid and folate on plasma homocysteine and risk of coronary artery disease

Objectives Alterations in the enzymes involved in homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism or vitamin deficiency could play a role in coronary artery disease (CAD) development. This study investigated the influence of MTHFR and MTR gene polymorphisms, plasma folate and MMA on Hcy concentrations and CAD development. MMA and folate concentrations were also investigated according to the polymorphisms. Methods Two hundred and eighty-three unrelated Caucasian individuals undergoing coronary angiography (175 with CAD and 108 non-CAD) were assessed in a case-control study. Plasma Hcy and MMA were measured by liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry. Plasma folate was measured by competitive immunoassay. Dietary intake was evaluated using a nutritional questionnaire. Polymorphisms MTHFR and MTR were investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by enzyme digestion or allele-specific PCR. Results Hcy mean concentrations were higher in CAD patients compared to controls, but below statistical significance (P = 0.246). Increased MMA mean concentrations were frequently observed in the CAD group (P = 0.048). Individuals with MMA concentrations > 0.5 mu mol/l (vitamin B(12) deficiency) were found only in the CAD group (P = 0.004). A positive correlation between MMA and Hcy mean concentrations was observed in both groups, CAD (P = 0.001) and non-CAD (P = 0.020). MMA mean concentrations were significantly higher in patients with hyperhomocysteinemia in both groups, CAD and non-CAD (P = 0.0063 and P = 0.013, respectively). Folate mean concentration was significantly lower in carriers of the wild-type MTHFR 1298AA genotype (P = 0.010). Conclusion Our results suggest a correlation between the MTHFR A1298C polymorphism and plasma folate concentration. Vitamin B(12) deficiency, reflected by increased MMA concentration, is an important risk factor for the development both of hyperhomocysteinemia and CAD.

A standardized measurement technique may improve the reliability of measurements of endometrial thickness and volume

Objective To investigate whether standardization of the multiplanar view (SMV) when evaluating the uterus using three-dimensional ultrasonography (3D-US) improves intra-and interobserver reliability and agreement with regard to endometrial measurement. Methods Two-dimensional (2D) and 3D-US was used to measure endometrial thickness by two observers in 30 women undergoing assisted reproduction treatment. Endometrial volume was measured with Virtual Organ Computer-aided AnaLysis (VOCAL (TM)) in the longitudinal (A) and coronal (C) planes using an unmodified multiplanar view (UMV) and a standardized multiplanar view (SMV). Measurement reliability was evaluated by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and agreement was examined using Bland-Altman plots with limits of agreement (LoA). The ease of outlining the endometrial-myometrial interface was compared between the A-and C-planes using subjective assessment. Results Endometrial volume measurements using the SMV and A-plane were more reliable (intra-and interobserver ICCs, 0.979 and 0.975, respectively) than were measurements of endometrial thickness using 2D-US (intra-and interobserver ICCs, 0.742 and 0.702, respectively) or 3D-US (intra-and interobserver ICCs, 0.890 and 0.784, respectively). The LoAs were narrower for SMV than for UMV. Reliability and agreement were not much different between the A- and C-planes. However the observers agreed that delineating the endometrial-myometrial interface using the A-plane was easier (first and second observer, 50.0 and 46.7%, respectively) or `comparable` (50 and 53.3%, respectively), but never more difficult than using the C-plane. Conclusions Endometrial volume measurements are more reliable than endometrial thickness measurements and are best performed using SMV and the A-plane. Copyright (C) 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Comparison between the reliability levels of manual palpation and pressure pain threshold in children who reported orofacial pain

The aim of this study was to compare the intra-and inter-rater reliability of pressure pain threshold (PPT) and manual palpation (MP) of orofacial structures in symptomatic and symptom-free children for temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Fourteen children reporting pain in masticatory muscles or the temporomandibular joint and 16 symptom-free children were randomly assessed on three different occasions: by rater-1 in the first and third session and by rater-2 in the second session. The trained raters applied algometry and MP as recommended by the Research Diagnostic Criteria for TMD. Intraclass correlation coefficients and the Kappa statistic were used to assess the levels of reliability of PPT and MP, respectively. Excellent intra-and inter-rater reliability levels were observed for PPT values at most of the examined sites for symptom-free children and excellent and moderate reliability levels for children reporting pain. For MP, moderate and poor intra-rater and inter-rater reliability levels were observed for most sites in both groups. Algometry showed higher reliability levels for both groups of children and is recommended for pain assessment in children in association with MP. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Is the Full Version of the AUDIT Really Necessary? Study of the Validity and Internal Construct of Its Abbreviated Versions

Background: This study was aimed at assessing the psychometric qualities of the abbreviated versions of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT-3, AUDIT-4, AUDIT-C, AUDIT-PC, AUDIT-QF, FAST, and Five-Shot) and at comparing them to the 10-item AUDIT and the CAGE in 2 samples of Brazilian adults. Methods: The validity and internal consistency of the scales were assessed in a sample of 530 subjects attended at an emergency department and at a Psychosocial Care Center for Alcohol and Drugs. The Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV was used as the diagnostic comparative measure for the predictive validity assessment. The concurrent validity between the scales was analyzed by means of Pearson`s correlation coefficient. Results: The assessment of the predictive validity of the abbreviated versions showed high sensitivity (of 0.78 to 0.96) and specificity (of 0.74 to 0.94) indices, with areas under the curve as elevated as those of the AUDIT (0.89 and 0.92 to screen for abuse and 0.93 and 0.95 in the screening of dependence). The CAGE presented lower indices: 0.81 for abuse and 0.87 for dependence. The analysis of the internal consistency of the AUDIT and its versions exhibited Cronbach`s alpha coefficients between 0.83 and 0.94, while the coefficient for the CAGE was 0.78. Significant correlations were found between the 10-item AUDIT and its versions, ranging from 0.91 to 0.99. Again, the results for the CAGE were satisfactory (0.77), although inferior to the other instruments. Conclusions: The results obtained in this study confirm the validity of the abbreviated versions of the AUDIT for the screening of alcohol use disorders and show that their psychometric properties are as satisfactory as those of the 10-item AUDIT and the CAGE.

Validation of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Modified Rankin Scale and Barthel Index in Brazil: The Role of Cultural Adaptation and Structured Interviewing

Background: We aimed to validate three widely used scales in stroke research in a multiethnic Brazilian population. Methods: The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Barthel Index (BI) were translated, culturally adapted and applied by two independent investigators. The mRS was applied with or without a previously validated structured interview. Interobserver agreement (kappa statistics) and intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated. Results: 84 patients underwent mRS (56 with and 28 without a structured interview), 57 BI and 62 NIHSS scoring. Intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.902 for NIHSS and 0.967 for BI. For BI, interobserver agreement was good (kappa = 0.70). For mRS, the structured interview improved interobserver agreement (kappa = 0.34 without a structured interview; 0.75 with a structured interview). Conclusion: The NIHSS, BI and mRS show good validity when translated and culturally adapted. Using a structured interview for the mRS improves interobserver concordance rates. Copyright (C) 2008 S. Karger AG, Basel

Evaluation of hepatobiliary excretion and enterobiliary reflux in rats with biliary obstruction submitted to bilioduodenal or biliojejunal anastomosis

Bilioduodenal and biliojejunal anastomoses are effective for the treatment of biliary obstruction. The objective of this study was to compare the effects of these anastomoses on hepatobiliary excretion and enterobiliary reflux. Enterobiliary reflux and biliary excretion were evaluated respectively after oral administration of technetium (Tc-99m) in combination with sodium phytate and intravenous infusion of Tc-99m with diisopropyl-iminodiacetic acid. Enterobiliary reflux occurred to an equal degree in the bilioduodenal and biliojejunal groups. Maximum hepatic activity time (T-max) and radiotracer clearance half-time (T-1/2) were similar in both groups. However, when compared with that found for the sham-operated group, T-max, and T-1/2 were higher in the biliojejunal group (P = 0.02 and P = 0.01, respectively). Histopathological analysis showed marked reduction in ductal proliferation in both groups. These data undermine the theoretical advantages attributed to biliojejunal anastomosis and further the understanding of the pathophysiology of cholangitis that occurs even with patent anastomosis.

Frequency of insertion/deletion polymorphism in exon 8 of HLA-G and kidney allograft outcome

Human leukocyte antigen-G (HLA-G) is a non-classical major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class Ib molecule predominantly expressed in cytotrophoblasts, where it acts as a specific immunosuppressor. Literature data have shown that grafts in some settings, such as cardiac and liver/kidney-associated transplantations, express HLA-G and this expression is associated with less severe rejection and also reduces the incidence of rejection. Fourteen-base pair deletion/insertion polymorphism has been reported in exon 8 of the 3`-untranslated region of HLA-G. This polymorphism within exon 8 of the HLA-G gene might influence transcription activity, which in turn may influence the stability of HLA-G transcripts. This influences the stability of the HLA-G protein and therefore is of potential functional relevance. In order to determine a possible correlation between the 14-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism and kidney allograft outcome, we isolated genomic DNA from 83 patients who had received isolated kidney allografts, and we classified the 83 specimens into two groups, grafts presenting Banff features of rejection group and a non-rejection group, and compared them with a control group of 97 healthy subjects. The 14-bp polymorphism at exon 8 was genotyped in all groups. There was no significant difference in allelic frequencies of 14-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism between normal controls and kidney transplant patients. In the RG, the homozygous genotype +14/+14 bp (P = 0.0238) was significantly increased in the group with acute rejection compared with the healthy control group. Analysis of other HLA-G polymorphisms and functional studies on immune regulation are essential to elucidate the role of HLA-G in kidney allografts.

Hepatic Hemosiderosis in Red-Spectacled Amazons (Amazona pretrei) and Correlation with Nutritional Aspects

Alimentary habits of free-living Psittaciformes vary significantly among different species. Amazona pretrei is under risk of extinction and has very specific free-living dietary habits, which are based on Parana pine seeds. Hemosiderosis is a pathologic process characterized by intracellular accumulation of iron without other evident lesions. It is associated with increased prevalence of infections, neoplasms, and hepatopathies. The purpose of this study was to quantify hepatic hemosiderin deposits in captive A. pretrei and verify their association with nutritional parameters. Liver samples were processed for histopathology and stained with Prussian blue. The sections were analyzed by computerized morphometry to quantify the hepatic hemosiderin deposits. The hepatic hemosiderosis rates showed positive correlation with age and time in captivity. These results suggest that the menus and commercial rations for Psittacidae must be carefully revised.

Quantitative CT analysis of the glabellar and anterior nasal spine regions for the placement of implants for nasal prosthesis retention

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the precision of the measurements of 2 craniometric anatomic points-glabella and anterior nasal spine-in order to verify their possibility as potential locations for placing implants aimed at nasal prostheses retention. Methods: Twenty-six dry human skulls were scanned in a high-resolution spiral tomography with 1-mm axial slice thickness and 1-mm interval reconstruction using a bone tissue filter. Images obtained were stored and transferred to an independent workstation containing e-film imaging software. The measurements (in the glabella and anterior nasal fossa) were made independently by 2 observers twice for each measurement. Data were submitted to statistical analysis (parametric t test). Results: The results demonstrated no statistically significant difference between interobserver and intraobserver measurements (P > .05). The standard error was found to be between 0.49 mm and 0.84 mrn for measurements in bone protocol, indicating a high /eve/ of precision. Conclusions: The measurements obtained in anterior nasal spine and glabella were considered precise and reproducible. Mean values of such measurements pointed to the possibility of implant placement in these regions, particularly in the anterior nasal spine.

Heat Release, Time Required, and Cleaning Ability of Mtwo R and ProTaper Universal Retreatment Systems in the Removal of Filling Material

Introduction: This ex vivo study evaluated the heat release, time required, and cleaning efficacy of MTwo (VDW, Munich, Germany) and ProTaper Universal Retreatment systems (Dentsply/Maillefer, Ballaigues, Switzerland) and hand instrumentation in the removal of filling material. Methods: Sixty single-rooted human teeth with a single straight canal were obturated with gutta-percha and zinc oxide and eugenol-based cement and randomly allocated to 3 groups (n = 20). After 30-day storage at 37 degrees C and 100% humidity, the root fillings were removed using ProTaper UR, MTwo R, or hand files. Heat release, time required, and cleaning efficacy data were analyzed statistically (analysis of variance and the Tukey test, alpha = 0.05). Results: None of the techniques removed the root fillings completely. Filling material removal with ProTaper UR was faster but caused more heat release. Mtwo R produced less heat release than the other techniques but was the least efficient in removing gutta-percha/sealer. Conclusions: ProTaper UR and MTwo R caused the greatest and lowest temperature increase on root surface, respectively; regardless of the type of instrument, more heat was released in the cervical third. Pro Taper UR needed less time to remove fillings than MTwo R. All techniques left filling debris in the root canals. (I Endod 2010;36:1870-1873)

Microhardness of resin cements in the intraradicular environment: Effects of water storage and softening treament

Objectives. To analyze the microhardness of four dual-cure resin cements used for cementing fiber-reinforced posts under the following conditions: after 7 days of storage in water, after additional 24 h of immersion in 75% ethanol, and after 3 months of storage in water. Hardness measurements were taken at the cervical, middle and apical thirds along the cement line. Methods. Root canals of 40 bovine incisors were prepared for post space. Fibrekor (R) glass fiber-reinforced posts (Jeneric/Pentron) of 1 mm in diameter were cemented using Panavia F 2.0 (Kuraray), Variolink (Ivoclar-Vivadent), Rely X Unicem (3M ESPE) or Duolink (Bisco) (N = 10). After 7 days of water storage at 37 degrees C, half the sample (N = 5) was longitudinally sectioned and the initial microhardness measured along the cement line from cervical to apex. These same samples were further immersed in 75% ethanol for 24 h and reassessed. The remaining half (N = 5) was kept unsectioned in deionized water at 37 degrees C for 3 months, followed by sectioning and measuring. Data were analyzed by a series of two-way ANOVA and Tukey tests at alpha = 5%. Results. Statistically significant differences were identified among the cements, thirds and conditions. Significant interactions were also observed between cements and thirds and between cements and conditions. Panavia F exhibited significantly higher initial microhardness than the other three cements, which showed no statistical difference among themselves. Variolink and Duolink showed significantly higher microhardness values in the cervical third, without significant difference among the thirds for the other cements. Immersion in ethanol significantly reduced the hardness values for all cements, regardless of the thirds. Storage in water for 3 months had no influence on the hardness of most of the cements, with the exception of Unicem that showed a significant increase in the hardness values after this period. Results showed heterogeneity in the microhardness of the cements inside the canal. All cements presented some degree of softening after ethanol treatment, which suggests instability of the polymer. The quality of curing of resin cements in the root canal environment seems unpredictable and highly material dependent. (C) 2009 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Eag1 potassium channel immunohistochemistry in the CNS of adult rat and selected regions of human brain

Eag1 (K(v)10.1) is the founding member of an evolutionarily conserved superfamily of voltage-gated K+ channels. In rats and humans Eag1 is preferentially expressed in adult brain but its regional distribution has only been studied at mRNA level and only in the rat at high resolution. The main aim of the present study is to describe the distribution of Eag1 protein in adult rat brain in comparison to selected regions of the human adult brain. The distribution of Eag1 protein was assessed using alkaline-phosphatase based immunohistochemistry. Eag1 immunoreactivity was widespread, although selective, throughout rat brain, especially noticeable in the perinuclear space of cells and proximal regions of the extensions, both in rat and human brain. To relate the results to the relative abundance of Eag1 transcripts in different regions of rat brain a reverse-transcription coupled to quantitative polymerase chain reaction (real time PCR) was performed. This real time PCR analysis showed high Eag1 expression in the olfactory bulb, cerebral cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus, and cerebellum. The results indicate that Eag1 protein expression greatly overlaps with mRNA distribution in rats and humans. The physiological relevance of potassium channels in the different regions expressing Eag1 protein is discussed. (C) 2008 IBRO. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The application of electron microscopy and microanalysis in conjunction with organic petrology to further the understanding of organic-mineral association: examples from Mount Isa and McArthur Basins, Australia

Organic petrology supported by electron microscopical and micro-analytical techniques was applied to organic matter in Proterozoic sediments to better understand hydrothermal processes responsible for ore-grade mineralisation. It was shown that organic maturation was not only closely linked to the geological history of the sediments, but also highlighted heat transfer by convection as differentiated from conduction solely through sediment burial and step-wise subsidence. Water-rock ratios effect organic maturation in hydrothermal systems, and erratic reflectance profiles are indicators of convective heat transfer. Identification and characterisation of organic materials in terms of source rock and migrated hydrocarbons was shown to be a powerful tool in reconstructing the thermal history of sediments, identifying hydrothermal episodes, fluid pathways and heat source in the northern Australian Proterozoic basins. Higher reflectance of organic matter towards the central parts of the Mount Isa Basin and some of the most northerly parts point to proximity to higher heat flow at times, in contrast to relatively low temperatures prevailing in the western parts of the basin, next to the Murphy Inlier. A close correlation shown between peak organic reflectance values and super-sequence boundaries farther highlighted the valuable information to be gained from organic petrology, by allowing the separation of processes responsible for metal dissolution and transportation from those inducing precipitation. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V All rights reserved.