Peptidomics Unveils Distinct Acetylation Patterns of Histone and Annexin A1 in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is a common malignancy of the endocrine system. Nodules are routinely evaluated for malignancy risk by fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB), and in cases such as follicular lesions, differential diagnosis between benign and malignant nodules is highly uncertain. Therefore, the discovery of new biomarkers for this disease could be helpful in improving diagnostic accuracy. Thyroid nodule biopsies were subjected to a precipitation step with both the insoluble and supernatant fractions subjected to proteome and peptidome profiling. Proteomic analysis identified annexin A1 as a potential biomarker of thyroid cancer malignancy, with its levels increased in malignant samples. Also upregulated were the acetylated peptides of annexin A1, revealed by the peptidome analysis of the supernatant fraction. In addition, supernatant peptidomic analysis revealed a number of acetylated histone peptides that were significantly elevated in the malignant group, suggesting higher gene transcription activity in malignant tissue. Two of these peptides were found to be robust malignancy predictors, with an area under the receiver operating a characteristic curve (ROC AUC) above 0.95. Thus, this combination of proteomics and peptidomics analyses improved the detection of malignant lesions and also provided new evidence linking thyroid cancer development to heightened transcription activity. This study demonstrates the importance of peptidomic profiling in complementing traditional proteomics approaches.

Comet assay to evaluate chromosomal changes in chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) contaminated by lead in a city in Bahia

Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) is one of the primary sources of animal protein for the Brazilian population. Thus, the safety of this food is highly relevant. This study was based on the evidence of severe contamination of these animals by metals such as lead in Santo Amaro, Bahia. This exploratory study aimed to evaluate associations between lead levels in blood of chicken exposed to a contaminated area with the occurrence of chromosomal alterations, evidencing genotoxic effects. Serum lead analysis was performed by GF-AAS after dilution with a matrix modifier solution (Triton X-100 0.2% v/v and HNO3 0.1% v/v), while chromosomal damage was evaluated using the comet assay. The results showed genotoxic effects (positive comet assay) only for the specimen sample with higher serum lead concentrations (33.9 µg dL-1), suggesting the occurrence of toxic effects at this level of exposure. This work evaluated a relationship between the reduction of serum lead levels in chicken and increased distance from the primary polluting source - a lead processing plant (COBRAC). It also showed that lead is bioavailable in this territory, contaminating chicken and causing genotoxic effects in these animals, further expanding the concern with the local biota and the health of the residents of Santo Amaro.

Proteomics Reveals mRNA Regulation and the Action of Annexins in Thyroid Cancer

Differentiated thyroid cancer is the most common malignancy of the endocrine system. Although most thyroid nodules are benign, given the high incidence of thyroid nodules in the population, it is important to understand the differences between benign and malignant thyroid cancer and the molecular alterations associated with malignancy to improve detection and signal potential diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic targets. Proteomics analysis of benign and malignant human thyroid tissue largely revealed changes indicating modifications in RNA regulation, a common cancer characteristic. In addition, changes in the immune system and cell membrane/endocytic processes were also suggested to be involved. Annexin A1 was considered a potential malignancy biomarker and, similarly to other annexins, it was found to increase in the malignant group. Furthermore, a bioinformatics approach points to the transcription factor Sp1 as being potentially involved in most of the alterations seen in the malignant thyroid nodules.

TERT Promoter Mutational Status in the Management of Cutaneous Melanoma: Comparison with Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy

BACKGROUND

While BRAF mutations seem important for early melanomagenesis, mutations in the TERT promoter (TERTp) are related to metastasis. Yet, in conventional melanoma management, risk stratification does not depend on molecular biomarkers that can indicate the stage of progression, but rather on clinical, pathological, sentinel lymph node (SLN), and radiologic evaluation. The aim of this work was to evaluate the frequency and prognostic impact of TERTp mutations, comparing their predictive value to those of conventional procedures in melanoma management.

METHODS

Mutational analysis of a series of 91 cases was performed. The correlations between TERTp and BRAF mutational status and clinicopathological features were assessed.

RESULTS

The mutation rate was 33% for TERTp and 30% for BRAF. There was 68% concordance between primary and metastatic samples for TERTp mutations and 92% for BRAF mutations. TERTp mutations are significantly associated with the presence of BRAF mutations, features of worse prognosis, and a reduced disease-free survival. Also, TERTp mutational status was similar to SLN biopsy as a predictive factor of cutaneous melanoma recurrence and metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

The predictive value of TERTp mutations may be similar to that of SLN biopsy and its integration in the management algorithm of melanoma patients should be considered.

TERTp mutations and p53 expression in head and neck cutaneous basal cell carcinomas with different aggressive features

Cutaneous basal cell carcinoma (cBCC) is an economic burden to health services, due to its great morbidity and increasing incidence in old people. Infiltrative cBCCs and cBCCs with micronodular pattern are considered as more aggressive. The role of p53 expression and TERTp mutation on cBCC behavior remains to be clarified. We aimed to assess TERTp mutations and p53 expression in relation to the cBCC histological subtype in a cohort of patients referred to an ENT Department of a tertiary Hospital of Northern Portugal. We performed a retrospective clinicopathological and histological review of the head and neck cBCCs followed-up at the otorhinolaryngology department of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro hospital (January 2007–June 2018). We assessed TERTp mutations in 142 cBCCs and p53 protein expression, through immunohistochemistry, in 157 cBCCs. We detected TERTp mutations in 43.7% of cBCCs and p53 overexpression in 60.5% of cBCCs. We spotted association of p53 overexpression and TERTp mutation with necrosis. In the infitrative-growth pattern cBCCs, there was no significant association with the clinical and histological features evaluated, except for necrosis. In the indolent-growth cBCCs, we identified a significant association of TERTp mutation status with female sex, necrosis, multiple cBCCs, and p53 positive expression. Our results suggest that TERTp mutation may be useful to identify more aggressive features in the indolent-growth pattern cBCCs (nodular and superficial subtypes). Further studies with larger cohorts are warranted to clarify the relevance of TERTp mutation in cBCCs.

Control of the growth of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris in industrialized orange juice using rosemary essential oil and nisin

The use of rosemary essential oil (RO) and its combination with nisin (RO+N) in preventing the multiplication of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris in orange juice was evaluated. The minimum inhibitory and bactericidal concentrations (MIC and MBC) for RO were both 125 μg ml^-1 while RO+N displayed a synergistic effect. The use of RO and RO+N at concentrations of 1, 4 and 8× MIC in orange juice for 96 h was evaluated in terms of their sporicidal effectiveness. With regard to the action against A. acidoterrestris spores, RO at 8× MIC was sporostatic, whereas RO+N at 1× MIC was sporicidal. Morphological changes in the structure of the micro-organism after treatment were also observed by microscopy. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis showed that most cells were damaged or killed after treatment. In general, the antioxidant activity after addition of RO+N decreased with time. The results demonstrate that using the combination of RO and nisin can prevent the A. acidoterrestris growth in orange juice.

Surgical outcomes of sinonasal inverted papilloma: a 17 year review

Introduction

Inverted papillomas represent one of the most common benign neoplasic lesions located in the sinonasal tract. Owing to the local erosive behavior, tendency to recur and the potential for malignant transformation, surgical management of inverted papillomas is often challenging.

Objective

This study aimed to analyze the surgical outcomes of patients with inverted papillomas, according to the Krouse staging and the different surgical approaches.

Methods

Retrospective study of patients diagnosed with sinonasal inverted papillomas who underwent surgical treatment between 2000 and 2016 at a tertiary referral hospital. Cases with follow-up less than 12 months were excluded. The rate and the time of recurrence were the main outcomes. Values of p < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

Thirty-six cases with mean age of 60 years, predominantly male (72%), were included. The follow-up period ranged from 1 to 16 years, with an average of 4.5 years. Krouse T1 Stage corresponded to 11.1%; T2 occurred in 50% of cases; while T3 and T4 Stages accounted for 30.6% and 8.3% of patients, respectively. Most cases were approached by an endoscopic technique alone (83.3%), with a recurrence rate of 13.3%. Patients treated via a combined or open approach revealed a recurrence of 16.7%. No differences in the recurrence rate were reported when comparing endoscopic surgery with the open or combined techniques. Krouse Stage T3 had a significant association with inverted papillomas recurrence (p = 0.023). All inverted papilloma relapses occurred up to 2 years post-operatively. One case of malignant transformation was recorded (2.7%).

Conclusion

Endoscopic surgery did not increase the recurrence rates and can be a safe and efficient alternative to open or combined techniques. The recurrence of inverted papillomas seem to be related to the persistence of the disease and tend to occur early after primary surgery. Krouse T3 Stages may be associated with a higher recurrence of inverted papillomas.

Histological Subtypes and Clinical Behavior Evaluation of Salivary Gland Tumors

INTRODUCTION

Salivary gland tumors include a wide spectrum of histological subtypes and clinical behavior, which we aim to evaluate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of all salivary gland tumors diagnosed and treated at the Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, between 2005 and 2015. Histological re- evaluation was performed in all cases and patient files were reviewed and both clinical and follow-up data were collected. Disease-free survival and overall survival were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and compared using the Mantel-Cox log-rank test. The significance threshold was set at 0.05.

RESULTS

We selected 295 cases, 150 males with a mean age at diagnosis of 50.4 (± 16.4) years. Primary benign epithelial tumors [n = 228 (77.3%)] were mostly pleomorphic adenomas [n = 148 (64.9%)] and Warthin tumors [n = 61 (26.8%)]. Primary malignant epithelial tumors [n = 43 (14.8%)] included mucoepidermoid [n = 16 (37.2%)], adenoid cystic [n = 6 (14.0%)] and acinic cell [n = 5 (11.6%)] carcinomas; 32 (74.4%) in parotid, 2 (4.6%) in submandibular and 9 (21%) in minor salivary glands. Primary epithelial tumors were more frequently malignant in minor (33.3%) than in major (13.9%) salivary glands. Local recurrence occurred in 30.2% and distant metastases in 25.6% tumors. The mean disease-free interval was 26 (± 37.5) months; most metastases were in lung and central nervous system. The 5 and 10 year disease-free survival rates were 63.4% and 50.1%, respectively; the 5 and 10 year disease-specific survival rates were 76.9% and 57.9%, respectively. Primary salivary tumors included also lymphomas [n = 8 (2.7%)] and soft tissue tumors [n = 5 (1.7%)]. Secondary tumors included metastases of carcinomas [n = 7 (2.4%)] and involvement by lymphoma [n = 1 (0.3%)].

DISCUSSION

Our results concerning age, gender, histological subtype, frequency and clinical behavior of salivary tumors concur with European studies. Divergence with Portuguese studies might be related with the inclusion criteria, clinical referral and time lag variations.

CONCLUSION

Although uncommon, salivary gland tumors occur in a wide age range and include histological subtypes with diverse prognosis.

Resistência de União à Dentina de um Sistema Adesivo com Diferentes Concentrações de Nanopartículas de Prata

O objetivo do estudo foi incorporar diferentes concentrações de nanopartículas de prata (NAg) em sistema adesivo e avaliar sua influência na resistência de união à dentina. Quarenta e oito terceiros molares humanos hígidos (CEP 204.601) foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 12 grupos (n4): controle Scotchbond Multi-Purpose (SBMP), adição de 50, 100, 150, 200 e 250 ppm de NAg no primer do SBMP, avaliados após 24h e 6 meses. Os dentes foram preparados, restaurados, seccionados em palitos (0,7 ± 0,2 mm2) e ensaiados à microtração (μTBS). Os grupos NAg 200ppm e NAg 250ppm apresentaram os maiores valores de μTBS, semelhantes ao SBMP considerando os tempos de avaliação (24h ou 6m). Os grupos NAg 50ppm (6m), NAg 100ppm (24h) e NAg 150ppm (24h e 6m) apresentaram menores valores de µTBS, semelhantes entre si e estatisticamente inferiores ao SBMP (49,4MPa). As demais condições experimentais apresentaram valores semelhantes ao SBMP (24h e 6m). Concluiu-se que a incorporação de concentrações de 200 e 250 ppm de NAg não alterou a resistência de união do sistema adesivo à dentina.Palavras-chave: Adesivos Dentinários. Prata. Resistência à Tração.

Small bowel intussusception in 2 adults caused by inflammatory polyps

Inflammatory fibroid polyps are rare, benign pseudotumors of the gastrointestinal tract of unknown etiology, which may rarely present as bowel intussusception and obstruction. The authors describe the clinical, radiologic, and pathologic features of 2 patients with ileal inflammatory fibroid polyps presenting as small bowel intussusception.

Pulmonary inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor: report of 2 cases with radiologic-pathologic correlation

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor is a rare benign tumor that affects most commonly children and young adults. In the lung, it comprises less than 1% of all neoplasms. The authors describe the clinical, radiological, and pathologic features of 2 cases of incidentally discovered pulmonary inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors.

Discoid lupus erythematosus with squamous cell carcinoma: a case report and review of the literature in Indian patients

We report a case of a patient with localized discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) who was found to have high-grade squamous dysplasia (carcinoma in situ) over the upper lip. This report also consists of a brief review of 16 other cases of DLE with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) we came across while going through the literature in an Indian scenario.Incidence of SCC over DLE in the Indian population is found to be 0.98% to 3.4% with a male-to-female ratio of 1.6:1. The latent period between onset of DLE and development of SCC was 9.59 ± 5.6 years.There was history of chronic sun exposure in 81.8% of patients, which indicates a possible role of prolonged ultraviolet light exposure in malignant transformation. The lips were the most commonly affected area (28.57%), with the upper lip being more commonly involved than the lower lip. We also observed that the latent period (5 ± 2.7 years) in lip tumours was shorter than that in other sites (11.22 ± 6.78 years), indicating a more rapid transformation in lips (p value = 0.038). Well differentiated was the most common (46.2%) type of SCC noted. Lymph node involvement was found in three of 17 cases (25%) and one case (8.3%) had recurrence of lesions after excision.We conclude that in India though SCC is rare per se, its occurrence in the context of DLE is not uncommon and is aggressive in nature.

Removable partial denture education in Portugal following the Bologna Process

The aim of this study was to investigate the current guidelines used for the undergraduate course subject Removable Partial Denture in Portuguese Dental Schools following the Bologna Process. All Dental Schools were sent a questionnaire, divided into the following areas: (I) organization and syllabus; (II) teaching methods; (III) materials and techniques; Answers about organization and syllabus of course subjects showed the most variability; teaching methods were identical regarding principal textbook and live demonstrations of laboratory/clinical procedures; the same techniques and materials are used in all the schools' dental clinics. The majority of Dental Schools present similar guidelines for removable partial dentures.

Incontinentia pigmenti

Incontinentia pigmenti is an X- linked dominant condition characterized by cutaneous lesions associated with developmental defects of the eye, skeletal system and central nervous system. We report a case of incontinentia pigmenti in a 30 day old female infant who presented to us with skin eruptions over bilateral upper limbs, lower limbs and trunk since birth. She had linear verrucous plaques and vesicles distributed along the Blaschko's lines in addition to macular hyperpigmentation in a linear and whorled pattern involving the concerned areas. On ophthalmological examination, proliferative retinopathy in the right eye was noted.

The JAK2V617F oncogene requires expression of inducible phosphofructokinase/fructose-bisphosphatase 3 for cell growth and increased metabolic activity

Myeloproliferative neoplasms are characterized by overproduction of myeloid lineage cells with frequent acquisition of oncogenic JAK2V617F kinase mutations. The molecular mechanisms that regulate energy requirements in these diseases are poorly understood. Transformed cells tend to rely on fermentation instead of more efficient oxidative phosphorylation for energy production. Our data in JAK2V617F-transformed cells show that growth and metabolic activity were strictly dependent on the presence of glucose. Uptake of glucose and cell surface expression of the glucose transporter Glut1 required the oncogenic tyrosine kinase. Importantly, JAK2V617F as well as active STAT5 increased the expression of the inducible rate-limiting enzyme 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-bisphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3), which controls glycolytic flux through 6-phosphofructo-1-kinase. PFKFB3 was required for JAK2V617F-dependent lactate production, oxidative metabolic activity and glucose uptake. Targeted knockdown of PFKFB3 also limited cell growth under normoxic and hypoxic conditions and blocked in vivo tumor formation in mice. Overall, these data suggest that inducible PFKFB3 is required for increased growth, metabolic activity and is regulated through active JAK2 and STAT5. Novel therapies that specifically block PFKFB3 activity or expression would, therefore, be expected to inhibit JAK2/STAT5-dependent malignancies and related cancers.

NADPH oxidases regulate cell growth and migration in myeloid cells transformed by oncogenic tyrosine kinases

Transformation by tyrosine kinase oncogenes in myeloid malignancies, including BCR-ABL in chronic myeloid leukemia, FLT3ITD in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) or JAK2V617F in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN), is associated with increased growth and cytoskeletal abnormalities. Using targeted approaches against components of the superoxide-producing NADPH-oxidases, including NOX2, NOX4 and the common p22^phox subunit of NOX1-4, myeloid cells were found to display reduced cell growth and spontaneous migration. Consistent with a role of NOX as regulators of membrane proximal signaling events in non-phagocytic cells, NOX2 and NOX4 were not involved in the excess production of intracellular reactive oxygen species and did not significantly increase oxygen consumption. All NOX family members are controlled in part through levels of the rate-limiting substrate NADPH, which was found to be significantly elevated in tyrosine kinase oncogene transformed cells. Also, reduced phosphorylation of the actin filament crosslinking protein MARCKS in response to suppression of p22^phox hints at a novel effector of NOX signaling. MARCKS was also found to be required for increased migration. Overall, these data suggest a model whereby NOX links metabolic NADPH production to cellular events that directly contribute to transformation.

Flexible PDMS -based dry electrodes for electro-optic acquisition of ECG signals in wearable devices

We present a new type of flexible dry copper electrodes based on Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coatings, requiring no electrical contact with the body. Tests were performed in order to evaluate the performance of these types of electrodes using electro-optic techniques, suitable for wearable devices. Conductive and insulated PDMS layers were fabricated through a spin coating process, reaching a thickness of 100µ. These layers were then deposited on top of a flexible copper sheet. In a first set of experiments PDMS-based electrodes were compared with Ag/AgCl pre-gelled electrodes, showing comparable performances and lower noise signals. In order to test the influence of electrode area into signal strength, different sizes were chosen: 10.14 cm(2), 17.55 cm(2), 25.3 cm(2) and 39 cm(2). The results have shown that the signal strength increases with electrode area. We have also tested the influence of PDMS conductivity in signal strength, by adding two types of nickel to the pre-polymer solution. PDMS conductive electrodes have shown slightly better performances, with amplitudes higher than 200mV, which is the maximum value recorded with PDMS insulated electrodes.

Non-genomic progesterone actions in female reproduction

BACKGROUND

The steroid hormone progesterone is indispensable for mammalian procreation by controlling key female reproductive events that range from ovulation to implantation, maintenance of pregnancy and breast development. In addition to activating the progesterone receptors (PRs)-B and -A, members of the superfamily of ligand-dependent transcription factors, progesterone also elicits a variety of rapid signalling events independently of transcriptional or genomic regulation. This review covers our current knowledge on the mechanisms and relevance of non-genomic progesterone signalling in female reproduction.

METHODS

PubMed was searched up to August 2008 for papers on progesterone actions in ovary/breast/endometrium/myometrium/brain, focusing primarily on non-genomic signalling mechanisms.

RESULTS

Convergence and intertwining of rapid non-genomic events and the slower transcriptional actions critically determine the functional response to progesterone in the female reproductive system in a cell-type- and environment-specific manner. Several putative progesterone-binding moieties have been implicated in rapid signalling events, including the 'classical' PR and its variants, progesterone receptor membrane component 1, and the novel family of membrane progestin receptors. Progesterone and its metabolites have also been implicated in the allosteric regulation of several unrelated receptors, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid type A, oxytocin and sigma(1) receptors.

CONCLUSIONS

Identification of the mechanisms and receptors that relay rapid progesterone signalling is an area of research fraught with difficulties and controversy. More in-depth characterization of the putative receptors is required before the non-genomic progesterone pathway in normal and pathological reproductive function can be targeted for pharmacological intervention.

Effect of acute administration of hydroalcohol extract of Ilex paraguariensis St Hilaire (Aquifoliaceae) in animal models of Parkinson's disease

Ilex paraguariensis St Hilaire (Aquifoliaceae) is a plant widely cultivated in South America and with various reputed medicinal properties that can be attributed to phenolic constituents of the leaves: caffeine, theophylline and theobromine, besides the flavonoids, quercetin and rutin. This study examined the antiparkinsonian activity of the hydroalcohol extract of Ilex paraguariensis in models of protection against cerebral injury induced by MPTP and reversal of the catatonia induced by reserpine in mice. The hydroalcohol extract prevented MPTP-induced hypolocomotion at doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg at the all time points observed and also prevented the reserpine-induced catalepsy at the same doses. The extract potentiated the effect of apomorphine in preventing catatonia, suggesting a non-dopaminergic activity, probably through antagonism of adenosine. In biochemical studies the hydroalcohol extract caused a significant decrease in the NO levels, exhibited a DPPH-scavenging ability and was effective in preventing the oxidation of deoxyribose. The results obtained suggest that the hydroalcohol extract of Ilex paraguariensis may have an antiparkinsonian profile in animal models, probably through its antioxidant activity and antagonist action on adenosine A(2A) receptors.

An assessment of dead space in pulmonary ventilation of the toad Bufo schneideri

The respiratory cycles of Rana and Bufo has been disputed in relation to flow patterns and to the respiratory dead-space of the buccal volume. A small tidal volume combined with a much larger buccal space motivated the "jet steam" model that predicts a coherent expired flow within the dorsal part of the buccal space. Some other studies indicate an extensive mixing of lung gas within the buccal volume. In Bufo schneideri, we measured arterial, end-tidal and intrapulmonary PCO(2) to evaluate dead-space by the Bohr equation. Dead-space was also estimated as: V(D)=(total ventilation-effective ventilation)/f(R), where total ventilation and f(R) were measured by pneumotachography, while effective ventilation was derived from the alveolar ventilation equation. These approaches were consistent with a dead space of 30-40% of tidal volume, which indicates a specific pathway for the expired lung gas.

Regulated expression of putative membrane progestin receptor homologues in human endometrium and gestational tissues

Rapid non-genomic actions of progesterone are implicated in many aspects of female reproduction. Recently, three human homologues of the fish membrane progestin receptor (mPR) have been identified. We combined bioinformatic analysis with expression profiling to define further the role of these mPRs in human reproductive tissues. Sequence analysis confirmed that the mPRs belong to a larger, highly conserved family of proteins, termed 'progestin and adiponectin receptors' (PAQRs). A comparison of the expression of mPR transcripts with that of two related PAQR family members, PAQRIII and PAQRIX, in cycling endometrium and pregnancy tissues revealed markedly divergent expression levels and profiles. For instance, endometrial expression of mPRalpha and gamma and PAQRIX was cycle-dependent whereas the onset of parturition was associated with a marked reduction in myometrial mPRalpha and beta transcripts. Interestingly, mPRalpha and PAQRIX were most highly expressed in the placenta, and the tissue expression levels of both genes correlated inversely with that of the nuclear PR. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that PAQRIX belongs to the mPR subgroup of proteins. We also validated a polyclonal antibody raised against the carboxy-terminus of human mPRalpha. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated more intense immunoreactivity in placental syncytiotrophoblasts than in endometrial glands or stroma. The data suggest important functional roles for mPRalpha, and possibly PAQRIX, in specific reproductive tissues, particularly those that express low levels of nuclear PR.

Angiotensin II and angiotensin-(1-7) inhibit the inner cortex Na+ -ATPase activity through AT2 receptor

In the present paper, the modulation of the basolateral membrane (BLM) Na+ -ATPase activity of inner cortex from pig kidney by angiotensin II (Ang II) and angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) was evaluated. Ang II and Ang-(1-7) inhibit the Na+ -ATPase activity in a dose-dependent manner (from 10(-11) to 10(-5) M), with maximal effect obtained at 10(-7) M for both peptides. Pharmacological evidences demonstrate that the inhibitory effects of Ang II and Ang-(1-7) are mediated by AT2 receptor: The effect of both polypeptides is completely reversed by 10(-8) M PD 123319, a selective AT2 receptor antagonist, but is not affected by either (10(-12) - 10(-5) M) losartan or (10(-10)-10(-7) M) A779, selective antagonists for AT1 and AT(1-7) receptors, respectively. The following results suggest that a PTX-insensitive, cholera toxin (CTX)-sensitive G protein/adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP)/PKA pathway is involved in this process: (1) the inhibitory effect of both peptides is completely reversed by 10(-9) M guanosine 5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) (GDPbetaS; an inhibitor of the G protein activity), and mimicked by 10(-10) M guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTPgammaS; an activator of the G protein activity); (2) the effects of both peptides are mimicked by CTX but are not affected by PTX; (3) Western blot analysis reveals the presence of the Gs protein in the isolated basolateral membrane fraction; (4) (10(-10)-10(-6) M) cAMP has a similar and non-additive effect to Ang II and Ang-(1-7); (5) PKA inhibitory peptide abolishes the effects of Ang II and Ang-(1-7); and (6) both angiotensins stimulate PKA activity.

PLA2/PGE2 are involved in the inhibitory effect of bradykinin on the angiotensin-(1-7)-stimulated Na(+)-ATPase activity of the proximal tubule

Recently, we demonstrated that bradykinin (BK) counteracts the stimulatory effect of Ang-(1-7) on the Na(+)-ATPase activity from basolateral membrane of the proximal tubule through B2 receptor. In the present paper, the signaling pathway involved in the inhibitory response of the Na(+)-ATPase activity to BK was investigated. The following results indicate that the phospholipase A2 (PLA2)/COX/prostaglandin E (PGE2) pathway is implicated in this process: (1) The inhibitory effect of BK on Ang-(1-7)-stimulated enzyme is abolished in a dose-dependent manner by quinacrine (10(-9)-10(-6)M), a nonspecific PLA2 inhibitor, and by PACOCF3 (10(-7)M), an inhibitor of a Ca(2+)-independent PLA2. However, AACOCF3 (2 x 10(-4) M), an inhibitor of the cytosolic PLA2, does not modify the inhibitory effect of BK. (2) The inhibitory effect of BK on the Ang-(1-7)-stimulated enzyme is reversed by cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors diclofenac (10(-12) M) and indomethacin (10(-12) M). (3) PGE2 (10(-12)-10(-5) M) inhibits the Na(+)-ATPase activity in a dose dependent manner. (4)The inhibitory effects of PGE2 and BK on the Na(+)-ATPase activity are not cumulative. (5) PGE2 (10(-12)-10(-8) M) counteracts the stimulatory effect of Ang-(1-7) on the enzyme activity in a dose-dependent manner.

Prevalence of TEL/AML1 fusion gene in Brazilian pediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia

We studied 58 childhood B-lineage acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) in Brazilian sample patients at the time of diagnosis to investigate the prevalence of the cryptic t(12;21)(p13;q22). All bone marrow specimens were G-band karyotyped, and commercial dual-color DNA probes were used to search for fusion signals in nuclei. The karyotype analysis showed hyperdiploidy as the most frequent abnormality. The frequency of patients with TEL/AML1 gene fusion was 19% (11 out of 58 cases). Six of the positive samples had normal karyotypes. Deletion of the wild-type TEL allele was observed in 27.3% of TEL/AML1 fusion-positive cases, but it was also identified in 4.2% of the negative cases. Three cases presented two fusion signals, indicating possible duplication of the der(21). The mean age of the patients with TEL/AML1 fusion was 4.8 years and the mean amount of peripheral leukocytes was 44,270 x 10(6)/L. The higher frequency of females with B-ALL (33/58 cases) observed in our sample was probably due to the selection mode of the study cases. The prevalence of TEL/AML1 fusion in Brazilian children in our study is similar to that found in other populations.

Bradykinin counteracts the stimulatory effect of angiotensin-(1-7) on the proximal tubule Na+ -ATPase activity through B2 receptor

Recently, we demonstrated that angiotensin-(1-7) (Ang-(1-7)) stimulates the Na(+)-ATPase activity through a losartan-sensitive angiotensin receptor, whereas bradykinin inhibits the enzyme activity through the B(2) receptor [Regul. Pept. 91 (2000) 45; Pharmacol. Rev. 32 (1980) 1]. In the present paper, the effect of bradykinin (BK) on Ang-(1-7)-stimulated Na(+)-ATPase activity was evaluated. Preincubation of Na(+)-ATPase with 10(-9) M Ang-(1-7) increases enzyme activity from 7.9+/-0.9 to 14.1+/-1.5 nmol Pi mg(-1) min(-1), corresponding to an increase of 79% (p<0.05). This effect is reverted by bradykinin in a dose-dependent manner (10(-14)-10(-8) M), reaching maximal inhibitory effect at 10(-9) M. Des-Arg(9) bradykinin (DABK), an agonist of B(1) receptor, at the concentrations of 10(-9)-10(-7) M, does not mimic the BK inhibitory effect, and des-Arg(9)-[Leu(8)]-BK (DALBK), a B(1) receptor antagonist, at the concentrations of 10(-10)-10(-7) M, does not prevent the inhibitory effect of BK on Ang-(1-7)-stimulated enzyme. On the other hand, HOE 140, an antagonist of B(2) receptor, abolishes the inhibitory effect of BK on the Ang-(1-7)-stimulated enzyme in a dose-dependent manner, reaching maximal effect at 10(-7) M. Taken together, these data indicate that stimulation of B(2) receptors by BK can counteract the stimulatory effect of Ang-(1-7) on the proximal tubule Na(+)-ATPase activity.

[Functional method in nursing practice approached through group dynamics: our experience]

This study discusses the functional method applied to Nursing, approached through a group dynamics developed with three groups of Master students from the University of São Paulo at Ribeirão Preto College of Nursing. After the dynamics, the subjects answered a questionnaire with four questions. The responses of the first group showed the limitations of the functional model that interfere in the work such as: impersonal relationships, fragmentation of tasks, centralization of decisions causing the workers' dissatisfaction. The groups II and III pointed out some advantages when the work is based on a team, such as the exchange of experiences, participant planning and shared decisions, resulting in satisfaction at work.

Effects of dry season dormancy on oxygen uptake, heart rate, and blood pressures in the toad, Bufo paracnemis

The cardiodynamic consequences of dry season dormancy in ectothermic vertebrates is not well known. Our hypothesis was that dormancy would reduce cardiac activity. We therefore determined oxygen uptake and cardiovascular function in aestivating toads, Bufo paracnemis, native to São Paulo State, Brazil. Specimens were collected and kept in the laboratory under controlled temperature and light regimes. We compared oxygen uptake, heart rate, blood pressure, rate-pressure product (RPP), and blood gases in toads during aestivation (dry winter season) and their early active season (spring). Oxygen uptake of winter toads at 25 degrees C was considerably lower than that of spring toads (winter: 24.0 +/- 1.8 ml/(kgh); early spring: 44.4 +/- 5.1 ml/(kgh); mean +/- SE; same in the following). A seasonal dichotomy was also observed at 15 degrees C although the differences was less pronounced (15.8 +/- 1.8 ml/(kgh) winter; 23 +/- 2.1 ml/(kgh) early spring). Chronic arterial cannulation permitted measurements of cardiodynamic variables without any undesired change in VO2. Heart rates of winter toads were significantly lower than those of early spring animals at both experimental temperatures (25 degrees C: winter 25 +/- 1.4 beats/min.; early spring: 35.2 +/- 5.1 beats/min. 15 degrees C: winter 15, 4 +/- 1.8 beats/min.; early spring: 23.9 +/- 2.1 beats/min). Systemic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures decreased slightly but not significantly during aestivation. We conclude that: (1) Bufo paracnemis downregulates metabolic rate during the dry season and (2) heart rate is also downregulated with little change of blood pressure. While the energetics of these responses are probably beneficial for survival during aestivation, the underlying biochemical mechanisms remain obscure.

Decitabine (5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine; DAC) plus daunorubicin as a first line treatment in patients with acute myeloid leukemia: preliminary observations

The authors report on the preliminary results of an ongoing phase II trial whereby the combination of the new DNA hypomethylating agent, 5-Aza-deoxycytidine (DAC), plus daunorubicin was given as first-line induction therapy to non-pretreated patients with acute myeloid leukemia (except FAB M3). DAC was given as a 4-h intravenous infusion at the dose of 90 mg/m2 daily from days 1-5, while daunorubicin was administered at the dose of 50 mg/m2 on days 1-3. A maximum of two courses were given to the patients with an interval of 4-6 weeks. Up to now, eight patients were accrued, of those six were evaluable for toxicity and response. The main toxic effects were bone marrow suppression, mucositis, nausea and vomiting, and alopecia. All six patients achieved a complete remission after one (five cases) or two (one case) courses. The trial is open for patient accrual.

[Ultrasonographic diagnosis of the pathology of the rotator cuff and subacromial bursa: criteria]

Shoulder soft tissues echographic evaluation depends on the availability of well established echographic diagnostic criteria, which hasn't been fully accepted until nowadays, as results in that field have been controversial. The main purpose of the present study has been to determine the echographic criteria of the most frequent shoulder periarticular soft tissue pathology. A prospective study has been carried out, comparing the right to the left shoulder of 37 normals in order to determine the normal characteristics and limits of the selected echographic parameters (echogenicity, echostructure, dimensions in terms of width, rhythm of movement and rotator cuff competence ratio). Afterwards, the relative role of these variables in the identification of three different nosological groups determined through suitable gold standard diagnostic methods (36 suprasinatus tears, 20 supraspinatus tendinitis and 22 subacromial bursitis) has been determined. Lastly, the discriminant power of some echographic parameters association was tested, thus suggesting the echographic criteria to be selected. Results support the following criteria: 1) supraspinatus tears: cuff competence ratio less than 1, the difference value between the affected and the sound tendon thickness less than -1,8 mm associated with asymmetries of one of the remaining parameters (echogenicity, echostructure or rhythm); 2) supraspinatus tendinitis: the difference between the affected and the sound tendon thickness bigger than 1 mm associated with asymmetries of one of the remaining parameters (echogenicity, echostructure or rhythm); cuff competence ratio equal or above 1;3) subacromial bursitis: the difference between the affected and the sound bursa thickness bigger than 1 mm associated with asymmetries of one of the following parametres: echogenicity, echostruture or rhythm.

[Laser therapy of inflammatory lesions of the soft parts of the locomotor system]

Soft Laser has been suggested as a useful tool in the management of a large number of pathologies. The aim of this study has been to test the utility of this radiation in the treatment of some Locomotor Apparatus Soft Tissues Inflammatory Conditions. One hundred and fourteen patients with clinical data suggesting tendinitis, bursitis or enthesitis entered this study; 97 patients (Group I) were treated with Infra-Red or/and Helion-Neon Laser using a pontual and/or a scanning technique. The remaining 17 patients were considered as a comparison group (Group II). For evaluation purposes, a semi-quantitative data file was used and the pain, mobility, edema and muscular status were observed. The observation of these items was done prior, two weeks and one month after the Laser treatment. Results were classified as positive when complete or significant remission of symptoms and signs were observed, and negative when there was no improvement or a very slight regression of the complaints observed. A significant difference (p. 001) between Group I and II was found; the acute cases registered better results than the chronic ones (86.8% positive results versus 69.4%). The shoulder patients showed the worst results with only 62% positive cases. Significant differences among the different kinds of Laser applications weren't found. This study seems to confirm the Soft Laser utility in the treatment of the Locomotor Apparatus Soft Tissues Inflammatory lesions.

[Painful shoulders. Clinico-echographic evaluation]

Painful shoulders are a frequent pathology and its specific diagnosis and therapeutic control are common challenges to medical professionals. To solve these problems a non invasive morphologic method of study--Real Time Ultrasonography--is presented. A standardized routine ultrasonographic technique using static and dynamic imaging was applied to the analysis of fifty patients whose clinical data suggested soft tissue pathology of that joint. Initial sonographic diagnostic data were compared with clinical signs and x-ray information and in some cases arthrographic and surgical observation as well. The utility of sonography in the therapeutic control was specially evaluated in a sub-group of twenty patients with clinical and ultrasonographic evidence of tendinitis or bursitis at that location and submitted to physiatric treatment. Sonographic criteria established in terms of echogenicity, dimensions and dynamic scanning performance are described and its value as diagnostic and therapeutic control tools are discussed. Our results suggest that real time ultrasonography is a useful method to confirm the diagnosis and could be indispensable to follow and control the therapeutic results in Painful Shoulders.

[Rehabilitation in oncology]

The A.A. emphasize the importance of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in oncologic treatment. The most significant aspects of psychiatric therapy were analyzed in a special group on oncologic diseases, such as breast cancer, malignant tumors of the limb bones and in the inactivity-desuse syndrome. It is concluded that rehabilitation treatment could be generalized to a larger group of oncologic situations.