Two years of mid-latitude cirrus cloud macrophysical and optical properties over North China are described from Earth-orbiting Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization(CALIOP) satellite measurements. Global cl...Two years of mid-latitude cirrus cloud macrophysical and optical properties over North China are described from Earth-orbiting Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization(CALIOP) satellite measurements. Global cloud climatological studies based on active remote sensing data sets benefit from more accurate resolution of vertical structure and more reliable detection of optically thin layers.The mean values for cirrus cases over North China are 0.19±0.18 for infrared emittance,0.41±0.68 for visible optical depth, 0.26±0.12 for integrated depolarization ratio,and 0.72±0.22 for integrated color ratio.When studied using reasonable assumptions for the relationship between extinction and ice crystal backscatter coefficients,our results show that most of the cirrus clouds profiled using the 0.532μm channel data stream correspond with an optical depth of less than 1.0.The dependence of cirrus cloud properties on cirrus cloud mid-cloud temperature and geometry thickness are generally similar to the results derived from the ground-based lidar, which are mainly impacted by the adiabatic process on the ice cloud content.However,the differences in macrophysical parameter variability indicate the limits of spaceborne-lidar and dissimilarities in regional climate variability and the nature and source of cloud nuclei in different geographical regions.展开更多
Pancreatic cancer has a considerably poor prognosis with a 5-year survival probability of less than 5% when all stages are combined. Pancreatic cancer is characterized by its dense stroma, which is involved in the cri...Pancreatic cancer has a considerably poor prognosis with a 5-year survival probability of less than 5% when all stages are combined. Pancreatic cancer is characterized by its dense stroma, which is involved in the critical interplay with the tumor cells throughout tumor progression and furthermore, creates a barrier restricting efficient penetration of therapeutics. Alterations in a large number of genes are reflected by a limited number of signaling pathways, which are potential targets. Understanding more about the molecular basis of this devastating cancer type regarding tumor microenvironment, distinct subpopulations of cells, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and inflammation will lead to the development of various targeted therapies for controlling tumor growth and metastasis. In this complex scenario of pancreatic cancer, especially members of the “small integrin binding ligand N-linked glycoproteins” (SIBLINGs) and “secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine” (SPARC) families have emerged due to their prominent roles in properties including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, adhesion, migration, angiogenesis, wound repair and regulation of extracellular matrix remodeling. SIBLINGs consist of five members, which include osteopontin (OPN), bone sialoprotein, dentin matrix protein 1, dentin sialophosphoprotein and matrix extracellular phosphoglycoprotein. The SPARC family of modular extracellular proteins is comprised of SPARC/osteonectin (ON) and SPARC-like 1 (hevin); secreted modular calcium binding proteins; testicans and follistatin-like protein. In this review, we especially focus on OPN and ON, elaborating on their special and growing importance in pancreatic cancer diagnosis and prognosis.展开更多
Linoleic (LA) and α-linolenic acids (ALA) are considered essential fatty acids (EFA) because they are not produced by the human body. This way, EFAs sources must come from the diet. The primary dietary source of n-3 ...Linoleic (LA) and α-linolenic acids (ALA) are considered essential fatty acids (EFA) because they are not produced by the human body. This way, EFAs sources must come from the diet. The primary dietary source of n-3 fatty acids is ALA, found in seeds and seed oils. Other important sources are fish oils such as tuna, salmon and herring. Currently, numerous studies suggest possible benefits of essential fatty acids in human health, such as in cardiovascular, cognitive and eye health, and also during pregnancy and childhood. This paper also discusses the impact of fatty acids in human metabolism, and the available evidence regarding its risks. It addresses the relevant debate regarding a general ban of trans fatty acids (TFA) from the world food market, because of the cardiovascular risks associated with its consumption.展开更多
Modern cultivated caladiums(Caladium×hortulanum)are grown for their long-lasting and colorful leaves.Understanding the mode of inheritance for caladium leaf characteristics is critical for plant breeders to selec...Modern cultivated caladiums(Caladium×hortulanum)are grown for their long-lasting and colorful leaves.Understanding the mode of inheritance for caladium leaf characteristics is critical for plant breeders to select appropriate parents,predict progeny performance,estimate breeding population sizes needed,and increase breeding efficiencies.This study was conducted to determine the mode of inheritance of two leaf background colors(lemon and green)in caladium and to understand their relationships with four other important leaf characteristics including leaf shape,main vein color,spotting,and rugosity.Seven caladium cultivars and three breeding lines were used as parents in 19 crosses,and their progeny were phenotyped for segregation of leaf traits.Results showed that the two leaf background colors are controlled by a single nuclear locus,with two alleles,LEM and lem,which control the dominant lemon and the recessive green leaf background color,respectively.The lemon-colored cultivar‘Miss Muffet’and breeding lines UF-52 and UF-53 have a heterozygous genotype LEMlem.Chi-square tests showed that the leaf background color locus LEM is independent from the leaf shape locus F,but is tightly linked to three loci(S,V and RLF)controlling leaf spotting,main vein color,and rugosity in caladium.A linkage map that consists of four loci controlling major caladium leaf characteristics and extends~15 cM was developed based on the observed recombination frequencies.This is the first report on the mode of inheritance of leaf background colors in caladium and in the Araceae family.The information gained in this study will be very useful for caladium breeding and study of the inheritance of leaf colors in other ornamental aroids,an important group of ornamental plants in the world.展开更多
The sodium and glucose co-transporter inhibitors type 2 (SGLT2) comprises a new class of hypoglycemic drugs to control type 2 diabetes mellitus, in an attempt to add new non-existing benefits to the so far arising cla...The sodium and glucose co-transporter inhibitors type 2 (SGLT2) comprises a new class of hypoglycemic drugs to control type 2 diabetes mellitus, in an attempt to add new non-existing benefits to the so far arising classes. Regarding this new class of drugs, represented by dapaglifozin, canaglifozin and empaglifozin, it is important to highlight the benefits brought by these medications to combat hyperglycemia with insulin-independent mechanisms that are beyond glucose reduction, such as cardiovascular events prevention, reduction in HbA1c, weight loss and blood pressure lowering. Recently, a relevant study (Empa-Reg) brought hope and set the spotlight on the prevention of cardiac events among diabetic patients, which is the main cause of mortality within this group. However, despite coming out as a good treatment option, SGLT2 inhibitors are under constant clinical research and, as a new drug, it should be carefully carried out regarding the long-term effects of glycosuria and other possible side effects, such as the observed increase in the incidence of bladder, breast cancer and bone fractures, which require further studies. Therefore, these compounds might represent a landmark approach for the treatment of diabetes.展开更多
Short stature is a clinical challenge in the daily practice of pediatric endocrinology, regarding the several technical, cultural and economic factors associated with its approach. This article intends to review the p...Short stature is a clinical challenge in the daily practice of pediatric endocrinology, regarding the several technical, cultural and economic factors associated with its approach. This article intends to review the physiology of growth hormone secretion, the endocrine regulation of human growth and the clinical aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of short stature. It specifically analyses the treatment of short stature with growth hormone, along with its side effects, cost/benefit analysis and possible risks. A clinical case from a medical school is also described, intending a better understanding of this frequent ambulatory situation in endocrinology and pediatrics.展开更多
Juvenile hypothyroidism is an unfrequent form of hypothyroidism that affects children. If not diagnosed and treated properly, it may cause severe neurological disorders during growth. The most frequent difficulties ar...Juvenile hypothyroidism is an unfrequent form of hypothyroidism that affects children. If not diagnosed and treated properly, it may cause severe neurological disorders during growth. The most frequent difficulties are found in school performance, difficulties in concentration, hyperactivity or fatigue and damage on the onset of puberty. Starting levothyroxine as a drug of choice is essential, and it should be made according to the age and weight of the child. Laboratory tests for control should be requested periodically, along with a strict control of the child’s development and growth. The family-doctor relationship, along with a clear guidance on the importance of treatment, is critical to achieve a successful treatment. This article is a review about the main clinical features of hypothyroidism in childhood, especially in developing countries, providing key aspects of adherence and characteristics of its follow-up.展开更多
Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality in humans, and the most frequent cause of mental retardation. Patients affected by this syndrome show an increased prevalence of autoimmune diseases. The m...Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality in humans, and the most frequent cause of mental retardation. Patients affected by this syndrome show an increased prevalence of autoimmune diseases. The most common of those is Hypothyroidism. We present a case report describing the association of Down syndrome with Hyperthyroidism. An 18-year-old patient presented with a history of recurrent throat infections and intermittent diarrhea, having developed a total alopecia areata within one month from the first visit to the physician. After consultations with general practitioners, he was directed to an Endocrinology Ambulatory and diagnosed with a clear case of Graves’ disease associated with Down syndrome. Treatment was started with methimazole 20 mg/day, and after two months, was adjusted to 40 mg/day. The patient reached adequate clinical and laboratory balance after five months of treatment. Thus, the association between Down syndrome and Graves’ Disease is relevant in medical practice, due to its specific characteristics on diagnosis, and the need of an adequate treatment regarding this disease association.展开更多
Vitamin D deficiency and Diabetes are both disorders of high prevalence in the world. Currently, evidences suggest a possible correlation of low levels of vitamin D with the diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus. Hypovi...Vitamin D deficiency and Diabetes are both disorders of high prevalence in the world. Currently, evidences suggest a possible correlation of low levels of vitamin D with the diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus. Hypovitaminosis D could be associated with insulin resistance and Diabetes Mellitus, which would in part explain mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of Diabetes. The aim of this work is to discuss the association between Vitamin D and Diabetes, questioning if vitamin D can prevent the settlement of diabetes or slow down its clinical evolution, and improve the pancreatic function, thus providing a better glycaemic control.展开更多
Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world. In Brazil, 8.7% of the population between 20 and 79 years of age has diabetes, estimating 11.6 million diabetics. It is commonly associated with ot...Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world. In Brazil, 8.7% of the population between 20 and 79 years of age has diabetes, estimating 11.6 million diabetics. It is commonly associated with other co-morbidities such as hypertension, dyslipidemia and obesity, which put these patients into a high cardiovascular risk profile. This study was performed using the medical records of enrolled population attending a Family Health Unit of Alto do Coqueirinho, Salvador, Northeastern Brazil, consisting of one doctor, one nurse, one dentist, one nursing technician and six community health workers. Medical records and data provided by the system of the Primary Care Information (SIAB), showed total of 2495 patients. Considering the prevalence morbidities in this population, hypertension was present in 9.8% of patients and Type 2 Diabetes in only 3.6%. Since the prevalence of morbidities is the key indicator to the development of public health policies, it seems important a better knowledge on the prevalence rates of diabetes, prediabetes and its co-morbidities of this population. Future plans and projects for health professionals will be based on a consistent medical record.展开更多
Cholelithiasis is a common disease in the general population. One of its risk factors is the type 2 diabetes mellitus, related to metabolic abnormalities associated to overweight, obesity, insulin resistance, hyp...Cholelithiasis is a common disease in the general population. One of its risk factors is the type 2 diabetes mellitus, related to metabolic abnormalities associated to overweight, obesity, insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia and dietary habits. The main risk factors to cholelithiasis are genetic susceptibility, ileum resection, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hemolytic anemia, age, estrogens and cirrhosis. This study aims to make a correlation between diabetes mellitus and obesity versus prevalence of cholelithiasis in these patients.展开更多
The immunologically mediated disease is a big family which affects many people in the world, since the cures are not yet available for most immune diseases, the patients face a lifetime of illness and treatment. Chine...The immunologically mediated disease is a big family which affects many people in the world, since the cures are not yet available for most immune diseases, the patients face a lifetime of illness and treatment. Chinese medicine inspires us to develop new methods for the treatment of immune diseases. Previous researches of immune system have revealed that an immune network exists. The immune system is like a complex highway; if we travel on these highways, we must have a map to avoid travelling in the wrong direction. Drawing the map of immune network will provide new tools for us to look directly at the basis of the immune system.展开更多
Amorphous alloys have properties that differ apparently from those of crystalline materials, such as superior magnetic, mechanical properties and the improved resistance to corrosion. There exist a number of methods o...Amorphous alloys have properties that differ apparently from those of crystalline materials, such as superior magnetic, mechanical properties and the improved resistance to corrosion. There exist a number of methods of preparing amorphous alloys, of which the most commonly employed one is rapid solidification. Recently, some new techniques have been developed, e.g. chemical reduction. Although fine powder produced by this method was reported in the early literature, it began to attract great attention only after展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.40875084)National Natural Science Foundation for Youth Science Foundation of China(Grant No.40705012).
文摘Two years of mid-latitude cirrus cloud macrophysical and optical properties over North China are described from Earth-orbiting Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization(CALIOP) satellite measurements. Global cloud climatological studies based on active remote sensing data sets benefit from more accurate resolution of vertical structure and more reliable detection of optically thin layers.The mean values for cirrus cases over North China are 0.19±0.18 for infrared emittance,0.41±0.68 for visible optical depth, 0.26±0.12 for integrated depolarization ratio,and 0.72±0.22 for integrated color ratio.When studied using reasonable assumptions for the relationship between extinction and ice crystal backscatter coefficients,our results show that most of the cirrus clouds profiled using the 0.532μm channel data stream correspond with an optical depth of less than 1.0.The dependence of cirrus cloud properties on cirrus cloud mid-cloud temperature and geometry thickness are generally similar to the results derived from the ground-based lidar, which are mainly impacted by the adiabatic process on the ice cloud content.However,the differences in macrophysical parameter variability indicate the limits of spaceborne-lidar and dissimilarities in regional climate variability and the nature and source of cloud nuclei in different geographical regions.
文摘Pancreatic cancer has a considerably poor prognosis with a 5-year survival probability of less than 5% when all stages are combined. Pancreatic cancer is characterized by its dense stroma, which is involved in the critical interplay with the tumor cells throughout tumor progression and furthermore, creates a barrier restricting efficient penetration of therapeutics. Alterations in a large number of genes are reflected by a limited number of signaling pathways, which are potential targets. Understanding more about the molecular basis of this devastating cancer type regarding tumor microenvironment, distinct subpopulations of cells, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and inflammation will lead to the development of various targeted therapies for controlling tumor growth and metastasis. In this complex scenario of pancreatic cancer, especially members of the “small integrin binding ligand N-linked glycoproteins” (SIBLINGs) and “secreted protein acidic and rich in cysteine” (SPARC) families have emerged due to their prominent roles in properties including proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, adhesion, migration, angiogenesis, wound repair and regulation of extracellular matrix remodeling. SIBLINGs consist of five members, which include osteopontin (OPN), bone sialoprotein, dentin matrix protein 1, dentin sialophosphoprotein and matrix extracellular phosphoglycoprotein. The SPARC family of modular extracellular proteins is comprised of SPARC/osteonectin (ON) and SPARC-like 1 (hevin); secreted modular calcium binding proteins; testicans and follistatin-like protein. In this review, we especially focus on OPN and ON, elaborating on their special and growing importance in pancreatic cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
文摘Linoleic (LA) and α-linolenic acids (ALA) are considered essential fatty acids (EFA) because they are not produced by the human body. This way, EFAs sources must come from the diet. The primary dietary source of n-3 fatty acids is ALA, found in seeds and seed oils. Other important sources are fish oils such as tuna, salmon and herring. Currently, numerous studies suggest possible benefits of essential fatty acids in human health, such as in cardiovascular, cognitive and eye health, and also during pregnancy and childhood. This paper also discusses the impact of fatty acids in human metabolism, and the available evidence regarding its risks. It addresses the relevant debate regarding a general ban of trans fatty acids (TFA) from the world food market, because of the cardiovascular risks associated with its consumption.
文摘Modern cultivated caladiums(Caladium×hortulanum)are grown for their long-lasting and colorful leaves.Understanding the mode of inheritance for caladium leaf characteristics is critical for plant breeders to select appropriate parents,predict progeny performance,estimate breeding population sizes needed,and increase breeding efficiencies.This study was conducted to determine the mode of inheritance of two leaf background colors(lemon and green)in caladium and to understand their relationships with four other important leaf characteristics including leaf shape,main vein color,spotting,and rugosity.Seven caladium cultivars and three breeding lines were used as parents in 19 crosses,and their progeny were phenotyped for segregation of leaf traits.Results showed that the two leaf background colors are controlled by a single nuclear locus,with two alleles,LEM and lem,which control the dominant lemon and the recessive green leaf background color,respectively.The lemon-colored cultivar‘Miss Muffet’and breeding lines UF-52 and UF-53 have a heterozygous genotype LEMlem.Chi-square tests showed that the leaf background color locus LEM is independent from the leaf shape locus F,but is tightly linked to three loci(S,V and RLF)controlling leaf spotting,main vein color,and rugosity in caladium.A linkage map that consists of four loci controlling major caladium leaf characteristics and extends~15 cM was developed based on the observed recombination frequencies.This is the first report on the mode of inheritance of leaf background colors in caladium and in the Araceae family.The information gained in this study will be very useful for caladium breeding and study of the inheritance of leaf colors in other ornamental aroids,an important group of ornamental plants in the world.
文摘The sodium and glucose co-transporter inhibitors type 2 (SGLT2) comprises a new class of hypoglycemic drugs to control type 2 diabetes mellitus, in an attempt to add new non-existing benefits to the so far arising classes. Regarding this new class of drugs, represented by dapaglifozin, canaglifozin and empaglifozin, it is important to highlight the benefits brought by these medications to combat hyperglycemia with insulin-independent mechanisms that are beyond glucose reduction, such as cardiovascular events prevention, reduction in HbA1c, weight loss and blood pressure lowering. Recently, a relevant study (Empa-Reg) brought hope and set the spotlight on the prevention of cardiac events among diabetic patients, which is the main cause of mortality within this group. However, despite coming out as a good treatment option, SGLT2 inhibitors are under constant clinical research and, as a new drug, it should be carefully carried out regarding the long-term effects of glycosuria and other possible side effects, such as the observed increase in the incidence of bladder, breast cancer and bone fractures, which require further studies. Therefore, these compounds might represent a landmark approach for the treatment of diabetes.
文摘Short stature is a clinical challenge in the daily practice of pediatric endocrinology, regarding the several technical, cultural and economic factors associated with its approach. This article intends to review the physiology of growth hormone secretion, the endocrine regulation of human growth and the clinical aspects of the diagnosis and treatment of short stature. It specifically analyses the treatment of short stature with growth hormone, along with its side effects, cost/benefit analysis and possible risks. A clinical case from a medical school is also described, intending a better understanding of this frequent ambulatory situation in endocrinology and pediatrics.
文摘Juvenile hypothyroidism is an unfrequent form of hypothyroidism that affects children. If not diagnosed and treated properly, it may cause severe neurological disorders during growth. The most frequent difficulties are found in school performance, difficulties in concentration, hyperactivity or fatigue and damage on the onset of puberty. Starting levothyroxine as a drug of choice is essential, and it should be made according to the age and weight of the child. Laboratory tests for control should be requested periodically, along with a strict control of the child’s development and growth. The family-doctor relationship, along with a clear guidance on the importance of treatment, is critical to achieve a successful treatment. This article is a review about the main clinical features of hypothyroidism in childhood, especially in developing countries, providing key aspects of adherence and characteristics of its follow-up.
文摘Down syndrome (DS) is the most common chromosomal abnormality in humans, and the most frequent cause of mental retardation. Patients affected by this syndrome show an increased prevalence of autoimmune diseases. The most common of those is Hypothyroidism. We present a case report describing the association of Down syndrome with Hyperthyroidism. An 18-year-old patient presented with a history of recurrent throat infections and intermittent diarrhea, having developed a total alopecia areata within one month from the first visit to the physician. After consultations with general practitioners, he was directed to an Endocrinology Ambulatory and diagnosed with a clear case of Graves’ disease associated with Down syndrome. Treatment was started with methimazole 20 mg/day, and after two months, was adjusted to 40 mg/day. The patient reached adequate clinical and laboratory balance after five months of treatment. Thus, the association between Down syndrome and Graves’ Disease is relevant in medical practice, due to its specific characteristics on diagnosis, and the need of an adequate treatment regarding this disease association.
文摘Vitamin D deficiency and Diabetes are both disorders of high prevalence in the world. Currently, evidences suggest a possible correlation of low levels of vitamin D with the diagnosis of Diabetes Mellitus. Hypovitaminosis D could be associated with insulin resistance and Diabetes Mellitus, which would in part explain mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of Diabetes. The aim of this work is to discuss the association between Vitamin D and Diabetes, questioning if vitamin D can prevent the settlement of diabetes or slow down its clinical evolution, and improve the pancreatic function, thus providing a better glycaemic control.
文摘Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most prevalent diseases in the world. In Brazil, 8.7% of the population between 20 and 79 years of age has diabetes, estimating 11.6 million diabetics. It is commonly associated with other co-morbidities such as hypertension, dyslipidemia and obesity, which put these patients into a high cardiovascular risk profile. This study was performed using the medical records of enrolled population attending a Family Health Unit of Alto do Coqueirinho, Salvador, Northeastern Brazil, consisting of one doctor, one nurse, one dentist, one nursing technician and six community health workers. Medical records and data provided by the system of the Primary Care Information (SIAB), showed total of 2495 patients. Considering the prevalence morbidities in this population, hypertension was present in 9.8% of patients and Type 2 Diabetes in only 3.6%. Since the prevalence of morbidities is the key indicator to the development of public health policies, it seems important a better knowledge on the prevalence rates of diabetes, prediabetes and its co-morbidities of this population. Future plans and projects for health professionals will be based on a consistent medical record.
文摘Cholelithiasis is a common disease in the general population. One of its risk factors is the type 2 diabetes mellitus, related to metabolic abnormalities associated to overweight, obesity, insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia and dietary habits. The main risk factors to cholelithiasis are genetic susceptibility, ileum resection, diabetes mellitus, obesity, hemolytic anemia, age, estrogens and cirrhosis. This study aims to make a correlation between diabetes mellitus and obesity versus prevalence of cholelithiasis in these patients.
文摘The immunologically mediated disease is a big family which affects many people in the world, since the cures are not yet available for most immune diseases, the patients face a lifetime of illness and treatment. Chinese medicine inspires us to develop new methods for the treatment of immune diseases. Previous researches of immune system have revealed that an immune network exists. The immune system is like a complex highway; if we travel on these highways, we must have a map to avoid travelling in the wrong direction. Drawing the map of immune network will provide new tools for us to look directly at the basis of the immune system.
基金Project supported by State Key Laboratory for Rapidly Solidified Non-equilibrium Alloys.
文摘Amorphous alloys have properties that differ apparently from those of crystalline materials, such as superior magnetic, mechanical properties and the improved resistance to corrosion. There exist a number of methods of preparing amorphous alloys, of which the most commonly employed one is rapid solidification. Recently, some new techniques have been developed, e.g. chemical reduction. Although fine powder produced by this method was reported in the early literature, it began to attract great attention only after
