Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): An Overview of Genetic and Metabolic Signaling Mechanisms.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a rare, progressive, and incurable disease. Sporadic (sALS) accounts for ninety percent of ALS cases, while familial ALS (fALS) accounts for around fifteen percent. Reports have identified over 30 different forms of familial ALS.

Overexpression of mTOR in Leukocytes from ALS8 Patients.

Background: The mutated VAPBP56S (vesicle B associated membrane protein - P56S) protein has been described in a Brazilian family and classified as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis type 8 (ALS8).

Objective: We aimed to study altered biochemical and immunological parameters in cells from ALS8 patients to identify possible biomarkers or therapeutic targets.

Methods: Wild-type VAPB, VAPBP56S, mTOR, proinflammatory cytokines, and oxidant/reducing levels in serum, leucocytes, and cellular lysate from ALS8 patients and health Controls were performed by ELISA, fluorimetry, and spectrophotometry.

Mid- and Longterm Neo-Aortic Valve Regurgitation after Jatene Surgery: Prevalence and Risk Factors.

Background: Jatene surgery became the surgical procedure of choice to repair transposition of the great arteries (TGA) in neonates and infants. Late complications, mainly related to the pulmonary outflow tract and coronary arteries, are well known. The behavior of the neo-aortic valve is a cause of concern because of its potential for requiring late reoperation.

Dyspnoea in patients with chronic hepatitis C treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin.

Background: Adverse events attributed to the treatment of chronic hepatitis C patients with pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) and ribavirin have been widely discussed. Lung disorders have been described, but the respiratory function of these patients during treatment has not been well studied. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence of dyspnoea and possible changes in lung function associated with the use of PEG-IFN and ribavirin.

Hypercoagulability markers in patients with peripheral arterial disease: association to ankle-brachial index.

Peripheral arterial disease is diagnosed by measuring the ankle-brachial index. Values lower than 0.90 define the disease being usually related to its severity.

Correlation between ROS production and InsP3 released by granulocytes from type 1 diabetic patients in a cAMP-dependent manner.

Background: Diabetes is associated with a pro-inflammatory status characterized by an increased production of inflammatory molecules. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cAMP elevating agents represent two molecular systems, normally generated during inflammation. These molecules could be responsible for the alteration of signaling pathways.

[Central nervous system paracoccidioidomycosis: analysis of 13 cases].

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a systemic granulomatous disease caused by Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, prevalent in Latin America, particularly in Brazil. Central nervous system (CNS) involvement occur in about 10% of cases. Thirteen patients with PCM involving CNS were studied considering clinical manifestation, neuroradiology and treatment modalities.