The diagnostic utility of inhibin staining in ovarian neoplasms.
Previous immunohistologic studies have suggested that the antibody to the alpha subunit of inhibin is a sensitive marker of sex cord-stromal differentiation. However, detection has also been reported within both ovarian epithelial and germ cell tumors. To further study the normal tissue distribution of inhibin and the utility of its detection for the differential diagnosis of ovarian sex cord-stromal neoplasms, normal tissues and 225 lesions including sex cord-stromal lesions, ovarian epithelial and stromal cancers, ovarian and testicular germ cell tumors, metastases to the ovary, and non-ovarian cancers were analyzed using semi-automated immunohistochemistry. In normal tissues, immunostaining was found in cell subsets of the ovary, testis, adrenal gland, placenta, and kidney. All sex cord-stromal tumors were inhibin-positive and 37 of 50 (74%) cases exhibited at least moderate to strong immunostaining. Two cases originally diagnosed as adult granulosa cell tumors that were inhibin-negative were reassessed; diagnoses of endometrioid stromal sarcoma and endometrioid carcinoma with sertoliform features were rendered. In other primary or metastatic ovarian lesions or metastases to the ovary, weak to moderate immunostaining was found in only 4 of 84 (4.8%) cases, including ovarian clear cell carcinoma (2/2), uterine clear cell carcinomas metastatic to the ovary (1/3), and serous papillary carcinoma (1/2). Similarly, only 4 of 66 (6.1%) non-ovarian neoplasms exhibited weak immunostaining, including melanoma (1/5), uterine endometrioid carcinoma (1/2), transitional cell carcinoma (1/3), and breast adenocarcinoma (1/8). Only one case of a non-sex cord-stromal tumor had moderate or strong immunostaining. Based on these results, immunohistologic detection of the alpha subunit of inhibin is a useful adjunct in the differential diagnosis of sex cord-stromal neoplasms.


Chenodeoxycholic acid suppresses the activation of acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase-alpha gene transcription by the liver X receptor agonist T0-901317.
The therapeutic utility of liver X receptor (LXR) agonists in treating atherosclerosis is limited by an undesired accumulation of triglycerides in the blood and liver. This effect is caused by an increase in the transcription of genes involved in fatty acid synthesis. Here, we show that the primary bile acid, chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA), antagonizes the stimulatory effect of the synthetic LXR agonist, T0-901317, on the expression of acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylase-alpha (ACCalpha) and other lipogenic enzymes in chick embryo hepatocyte cultures. CDCA inhibits T0-901317-induced ACCalpha transcription by suppressing the enhancer activity of a LXR response unit (-101 to -71 bp) that binds LXR and sterol-regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1). We also demonstrate that CDCA decreases the expression of SREBP-1 in the nucleus and the acetylation of histone H3 and H4 at the ACCalpha LXR response unit. The CDCA-mediated reduction in ACCalpha expression is associated with a decrease in the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator-1alpha (PGC-1alpha) and small heterodimer partner and an increase in the expression of fibroblast growth factor-19 (FGF-19). Ectopic expression of FGF-19 decreases T0-901317-induced ACCalpha expression. Inhibition of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and/or extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) suppresses the effects of CDCA on the expression of ACCalpha, SREBP-1, PGC-1alpha, and FGF-19. These results demonstrate that CDCA inhibits T0-901317-induced ACCalpha transcription by suppressing the activity of LXR and SREBP-1. We postulate that p38 MAPK, ERK, PGC-1alpha, and FGF-19 are components of the signaling pathway(s) mediating the regulation of ACCalpha gene transcription by CDCA.


Mentoring, coaching and action learning: interventions in a national clinical leadership development programme.
To evaluate mentoring, coaching and action learning interventions used to develop nurses' and midwives' clinical leadership competencies and to describe the programme participants' experiences of the interventions. Mentoring, coaching and action learning are effective interventions in clinical leadership development and were used in a new national clinical leadership development programme, introduced in Ireland in 2011. An evaluation of the programme focused on how participants experienced the interventions. A qualitative design, using multiple data sources and multiple data collection methods. Methods used to generate data on participant experiences of individual interventions included focus groups, individual interviews and nonparticipant observation. Seventy participants, including 50 programme participants and those providing the interventions, contributed to the data collection. Mentoring, coaching and action learning were positively experienced by participants and contributed to the development of clinical leadership competencies, as attested to by the programme participants and intervention facilitators. The use of interventions that are action-oriented and focused on service development, such as mentoring, coaching and action learning, should be supported in clinical leadership development programmes. Being quite different to short attendance courses, these interventions require longer-term commitment on the part of both individuals and their organisations. In using mentoring, coaching and action learning interventions, the focus should be on each participant's current role and everyday practice and on helping the participant to develop and demonstrate clinical leadership skills in these contexts.


Colitis: an unusual presentation of Wegener's granulomatosis.
Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) also known as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is an anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-positive (ANCA) vasculitis which most commonly affects the upper respiratory tract, lungs and kidneys. It is uncommon for colitis to be the primary reason for the first hospital admission related to WG. This case represents one of the few in the literature where colitis is associated with WG and in particular, where colonic involvement was the presenting symptom. The patient presented to hospital with a 3-day history of bloody diarrhoea and was treated for colitis. The disease progressed and during the second admission renal and pulmonary involvement was found. A renal biopsy showed a crescentic change and a CT-confirmed inflammatory changes in the caecum and ascending colon. A diagnosis of WG was made and appropriate treatment initiated. The patient is now in remission.


Two waves of virus following anterior chamber inoculation of HSV-1.
Following inoculation of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) into the anterior chamber of one eye of a Balb/c mouse, a pattern of ocular retinal disease occurs which is characterized by retinal necrosis, disruption of the retinal architecture of the uninoculated contralateral eye, and sparing of the retina of the virus-inoculated eye. Our direct virus culture studies have revealed that, after uniocular anterior chamber inoculation, virus reaches the uninoculated eye in two temporally separate waves. The first wave of virus is detected in the uninoculated eye as early as one day postinoculation (pi), long before virus is found in either of the optic nerves or the brain. The second wave of virus arrives in this eye between 7 and 10 days pi. Sequentially, the path of the second wave of virus appears to move from the injected eye to (1) the ipsilateral optic nerve, (2) the brain, (3) the contralateral optic nerve, and (4) the posterior segment of the uninoculated contralateral eye, suggesting that interocular spread of the second wave of virus after anterior chamber inoculation occurs via neural pathways. Results of histopathologic examinations and virus culture studies suggest that the early wave of virus contributes to the inflammation observed at the angle structures of the contralateral eye 7-8 days pi and that the second wave of virus accounts for the peak virus titer observed on day 10 pi, a peak which coincides with the destruction of the retina of this eye. It is proposed that the first wave is causally related to the development of retinitis, which occurs as the second wave reaches the retina.


[Colon ileus caused by endometriosis].
A case history of acute obstruction of the sigmoid colon caused by endometriosis in a 35-year-old woman is described. Endometriosis occasionally causes relative stenoses of the bowel, whereas total obstruction is rarely seen. Obstruction of the sigmoid colon is often caused by malignancy, but sometimes other causes must be considered.


Ancient Schwannoma Presenting at the Cauda Equina: A Report of a Rare Case.
Ancient schwannoma is an uncommon variant of schwannoma. While many reports have presented defining histologic and clinical features of ancient schwannoma, there are only a very few cases in the literature, to our knowledge, of ancient schwannoma presenting at the cauda equina. The current report of ancient schwannoma presenting at the cauda equina adds to the literature and discusses the identification of specific histologic characteristics, the role of conservative medical management, surgical resection, and prognostication in this select subset of patients.


An approach for enhancing the production of human-like collagen II by enlarging the metabolic flux at pyruvate node.
As a key metabolite of glycolysis, Pyruvate affects cell growth and metabolism directly. In order to enhance the production of human-like collagen (HLC) II, pyruvate was added into fermentation broth, and response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the addition time and dosage of pyruvate and the concentration of phosphate buffer. And the results of PB-design showed that only two variables ─ the dosage of pyruvate and the concentration of buffer ─ had significant effects on the production of human-like collagen. Quadratic polynomial models were established after analyzing the results of full factorial central composite design. The optimal dosage of pyruvate and the concentration of buffer were 8.23 mmol • L⁻¹ and 0.17 mol • L⁻¹ respectively. Under the optimal cultivation condition, Cell OD600 was increased 28.72%; the maximal production of human-like collagen could be up to 0.29 g • L⁻¹ which was 11.54% higher than that of the control group 0.26 g • L⁻¹ (the highest production of the former study).


Subjective Sleep Quality among Sarcopenic and Non-Sarcopenic Older Adults: Results from the SarcoPhAge Cohort.
It seems that sleep quality could impact the physiological process related to loss of muscle mass. We seek to compare subjective sleep quality of sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic subjects diagnosed according to 6 definitions. Cross-sectional data used in this analysis were collected from the SarcoPhAge (Sarcopenia and Physical Impairment with Advancing Age) cohort, a prospective study aiming to assess clinical parameters linked to sarcopenia. The present study was interested in communitydwelling older adults with and without sarcopenia. Measurements - A diagnosis of sarcopenia was established according to 6 definitions. Three assessments were carried out: an evaluation of lean mass, a measurement of muscle strength and an assessment of physical performance. In addition, to evaluate the parameters of subjective sleep, we used the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), a self-administered questionnaire evaluating 7 components of sleep architecture. A total of 255 individuals aged 74.7±5.8 years were included. Based on the 6 different definitions, the prevalence of sarcopenia ranged from 5.9% to 32.5%. There was no significant difference between sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic subjects regarding most of the components of subjective sleep quality. However, the definition of Cruz-Jentoft et al. (2010) indicated that sarcopenic subjects had higher scores than non-sarcopenic subjects for two components: sleep latency and day-time dysfunction (p=0.03 and p=0.04, adjusted for confounders). Moreover, some parameters of sleep quality were correlated with components of sarcopenia. Some properties of subjective sleep quality seem to be associated with sarcopenia and seem correlated with at least one of the three components of the condition.


Structurally Constrained Evolutionary Algorithm for the Discovery and Design of Metastable Phases.
Metastable materials are abundant in nature and technology, showcasing remarkable properties that inspire innovative materials design. However, traditional crystal structure prediction methods, which rely solely on energetic factors to determine a structure's fitness, are not suitable for predicting the vast number of potentially synthesizable phases that represent a local minimum corresponding to a state in thermodynamic equilibrium. Here, we present a new approach for the prediction of metastable phases with specific structural features and interface this method with the XtalOpt evolutionary algorithm. Our method relies on structural features that include the local crystalline order (e.g, the coordination number or chemical environment), and symmetry (e.g, Bravais lattice and space group) to filter the breeding pool of an evolutionary crystal structure search. The effectiveness of this approach is benchmarked on three known metastable systems: XeN8, with a two-dimensional polymeric nitrogen sublattice, brookite TiO2, and a high pressure BaH4 phase, which was recently characterized. Additionally, a newly predicted metastable melaminate salt, P1̅ WC3N6, was found to possess an energy that is lower than that of two phases proposed in a recent computational study. The method presented here could help in identifying the structures of compounds that have already been synthesized, and in developing new synthesis targets with desired properties.


Acute symptomatic hyponatremia in a flight attendant.
Acute symptomatic hyponatremia after thiazide diuretic initiation is a medical emergency. Here we describe the case of a flight attendant who developed acute hyponatremia during a flight and the potential risk factors for developing this condition. A 57-year-old flight attendant with history of essential hypertension was recently started on a thiazide diuretic. As she did routinely when working, she increased her water intake during a flight from London to Mexico City. She complained of nausea and headache during the flight. Upon arrival, she developed severe disorientation and presented to the hospital emergency room (ER) with a Glasgow scale of 12, hypoxia, and a generalized tonic clonic seizure. Her laboratory results on arrival were consistent with severe hyponatremia (serum Na 116 mEql/L) and severe cerebral edema by CT scan. She was treated with hypertonic saline, with complete resolution of the neurologic symptoms. We describe high water intake and hypoxia related to decreased partial pressure of oxygen in the cabin as the two main risk factors for thiazide-induced acute hyponatremia in this case.


An online, interactive approach to teaching neuroscience to adolescents.
Most of today's students are skilled in instant messaging, Web browsing, online games, and blogs. These have become part of the social landscape and have changed how we learn and where we learn. The question becomes how to harness the attractiveness and ubiquity of electronic venues toward the goal of teaching neuroscience. At the Rice University Center for Technology in Teaching and Learning, a central focus is the creation of innovative materials that appeal to middle school students. A recent project was undertaken through a Science Education Drug Abuse Partnership Award (R25 DA15063) from the National Institute on Drug Abuse to inform adolescents about the neurobiology of substance abuse and the current research dealing with a class of drugs known as club drugs. Problem-based learning, multimedia pedagogy, and the National Science Content Standards were integrated to produce The Reconstructors, an episodic series available via the World Wide Web at http://reconstructors.rice.edu. A field test of students from five schools assessed the retention of content after "playing" The Reconstructors series titled Nothing to Rave About. Gain scores indicated that middle school students' knowledge about club drugs and the basic neuroscience concepts that explain their effects improved significantly.


Geophagus crocatus, a new species of geophagine cichlid from the Berbice River, Guyana, South America (Teleostei: Cichlidae).
We describe a new Geophagus from the Berbice River of Guyana, bringing the total number of described species in the genus to 19, and of Guianese species to six.. Geophagus crocatus, new species, is distinguished from all species of Geophagus outside of the G. surinamensis group by the presence of an incomplete suborbital stripe (vs. complete), and the presence of six lateral bars, with bars 2 and 3 slightly sloping toward each other and fusing dorsally at the base of the dorsal fin. Geophagus crocatus is the only Geophagus species known from the Berbice River, and it is present above and below the Itabru Falls.


Isolation and sequence analysis of the fatty acid synthetase FAS2 gene from Penicillium patulum.
The fatty acid synthetase complex of Penicillium patulum was isolated and shown to be structurally similar to other known fungal fatty acid synthetases. It is composed of two subunit, alpha and beta, each with a molecular mass of about 200 kDa. P. patulum genomic and cDNA libraries were constructed in lambda gt11 and EMBL3 vectors. From these libraries, the P. patulum FAS2 gene together with its flanking DNA was isolated. The cloned genomic DNA was sequenced over a length of 6357 base pairs. The coding sequence of fatty acid synthetase subunit alpha, being 5571 nucleotides long, was identified within this DNA segment. The FAS2 gene is a mosaic of three exons (514, 4949 and 108 base pairs) and two introns, each of 54 base pairs in length. Both introns were absent in the corresponding cDNA sequences. Like other fungal introns both contain an internal CTAAC sequence, located 10 base pairs upstream of their 3'-exon/intron boundaries. In addition, they have, at their ends, the GTCAAGT and TAG consensus sequences characteristic of all eucaryotic introns. Furthermore, two pairs of direct repeats, of as yet unknown significance, were found in the two P. patulum introns. The P. patulum FAS2 gene encodes a protein of 1857 amino acids and 204.5 kDa molecular mass. It is 90 nucleotides shorter than the corresponding S. cerevisiae gene. In both organisms, the FAS2 genes and their products exhibit a high degree of overall sequence similarity at both the DNA (63%) and protein (68%) levels. Therefore, the fatty acid synthetase alpha subunits of P. patulum and S. cerevisiae obviously contain the same catalytic domains in an identical sequential order.


Precession of an electron-magnetohydrodynamic field-reversed configuration.
A field-reversed configuration is generated in a large laboratory plasma in the parameter regime of electron magnetohydrodynamics. During its free relaxation, the magnetic moment is observed to precess when tilted from its original axis. The precession velocity is the electron drift velocity in the toroidal current layer. The precession is a manifestation of frozen-in field lines in a moving electron fluid.


Cryptococcal thyroiditis and hyperthyroidism.
We report a case of cryptococcal thyroiditis presenting with hyperthyroidism that evolved through a transient euthyroid phase to hypothyroidism and finally recovered to normal function. This four-phase clinical presentation is similar to that of subacute thyroiditis, and it is unusual in the setting of infectious nonviral thyroiditis. Cryptococcal thyroiditis is rare; only three cases have been reported. Our patient is the first who survived the disseminated cryptococcal infection with thyroid involvement, thus enabling longitudinal clinical and endocrinologic follow-up.


Liquid Exfoliation of Layered Transition Metal Dichalcogenides for Biological Applications.
Known to possess distinctive properties that differ greatly from their bulk form, layered two-dimensional materials have been extensively studied and incorporated into many versatile applications ranging from optoelectronics to sensors. For biomedical research, two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs) have garnered much interest as they have been shown to exhibit relatively low toxicity, high stability in aqueous environments, and the ability to adhere to biological materials such as proteins. These materials are promising candidates, demonstrating potential applications in biosensing, cell imaging, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Preparation and exfoliation of 2D TMDs play an important part in these various applications as their properties are heavily dependent on the number of layers and lateral size. Described in this article are protocols for the liquid exfoliation of 2D TMDs from their bulk materials. Additional protocols are also provided for functionalizing or modifying the surface of the exfoliated 2D TMDs. © 2016 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.


The systemic fibrinolytic effect of low-dose intraarterial streptokinase: observations in 12 patients. Work in progress.
The systemic hematological effects of low-dose intraarterial streptokinase were studied in 12 patients with angiographic evidence of thrombosis. Streptokinase was administered at 5,000 U/hr; this rate was increased in the absence of clinical response or a systemic effect, which was defined as a thrombin time greater than twice that of the control time and/or a fibrinogen concentration less than 30% that of the control concentration. Eight patients experienced a systemic effect with final infusion rates of 7,500 to 20,000 U/hr over 20 to 72 hours, while 4 patients had no evidence of a systemic effect at 5,000 to 10,000 U/hr over 18 to 138 hours. A systemic effect could not be predicted based on infusion rates or durations, and the presence of a systemic effect was not predictive of hemorrhagic complications or thrombolytic effect in our small series. These results suggest that a systemic effect is frequently encountered with this form of therapy and is of uncertain clinical relevance.


Individual and Joint Associations of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T Genotype and Plasma Homocysteine With Dyslipidemia in a Chinese Population With Hypertension.
We aimed to examine the cross-sectional associations of plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) concentrations and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase ( MTHFR) C677T genotype with dyslipidemia. A total of 231 patients with mild-to-moderate essential hypertension were enrolled from the Huoqiu and Yuexi communities in Anhui Province, China. Plasma tHcy levels were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Genotyping was performed by TaqMan allelic discrimination technique. Compared with MTHFR 677 CC + CT genotype carriers, TT genotype carriers had higher odds of hypercholesterolemia (adjusted odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 2.7 [1.4-5.2]; P = .004) and higher odds of abnormal low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 2.3 [1.1-4.8]; P = .030). The individuals with the TT genotype had higher concentrations of log(tHcy) than those with the 677 CC + CT genotype (adjusted β [standard error]: .2 [0.03]; P < .001). Patients with tHcy ≥ 10 μmol/L had significantly higher odds of hypercholesterolemia (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 2.4 [1.2-4.7]; P = .010). Furthermore, patients with both the TT genotype and the tHcy ≥ 10 μmol/L had the highest odds of hypercholesterolemia (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 4.1 [1.8-9.4]; P = .001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (adjusted OR [95% CI]: 2.4 [1.0-6.0]; P = .064). This study suggests that both tHcy and the MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism may be important determinants of the incidence of dyslipidemia in Chinese patients with essential hypertension. Further studies are needed to confirm the role of tHcy and the MTHFR C677T mutation in the development of dyslipidemia in a larger sample.


[Pituitary-adrenal axis system condition in patients with open angle glaucoma].
Our study included 71 patients (38 males and 33 females) with diagnosed open angle glaucoma and healthy 71 persons for control group. Their age ranged from 45 to 70. The patients and healthy persons were divided into three groups: I group--45-55 years old persons, II group--55-65 years old persons, III group--65-75 years old persons. Examination included ophthalmologic and hormonal research. To assess the function of pituitary-adrenal axis, we measured the concentrations of cortisol, aldosterone and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in the plasma of patients and control groups by radioimmunoassay method. The level of ACTH was decreased in I and II groups of females and in III group of males. The level of cortisol was increased in all--I, II and III groups of males. Aldosterone was decreased in III group of males and in I and III groups of females. According to our studies there were some changes in secretion of these hormones as well as in their regulation. The findings confirmed the role pituitary-adrenal axis of in the regulation of IOP. In compliance to our data, the investigation of the hormonal status of patients with glaucoma is recommended for complete understanding of glaucoma etiology and pathogenesis.


Diabetes mellitus in Tropical Chronic Pancreatitis Is Not Just a Secondary Type of Diabetes.
In chronic calcific pancreatitis of the tropics, etiology and relationship to developing diabetes mellitus are unknown. Some consider these cases a straightforward secondary type of diabetes, while others suggest selective beta-cell impairment. Testing pancreatic function, we investigated whether selective beta-cell impairment triggers diabetes associated with tropical pancreatitis. At a Bangladeshi research institute, 8 chronic tropical pancreatitis and no diabetes mellitus subjects, 14 fibrocalculous pancreatic diabetics and 27 matched healthy controls underwent arginine (endocrine pancreatic function) and secretin (exocrine pancreatic function assessment) stimulation tests. All patients with clinically-diagnosed, chronic pancreatitis demonstrated pronounced exocrine pancreatic dysfunction with beta-cell functioning differing significantly between the two groups. Compared to controls, patients having tropical pancreatitis and no diabetes showed normal plasma C-peptide values at baseline and after arginine stimulation, while fibrocalculous pancreatic diabetics demonstrated a typical diabetic pattern for plasma C-peptide levels. In contrast, pancreatic alpha-cell functioning (glucagon response to arginine) was preserved in both pancreatitis groups. A preserved pancreatic alpha-cell function in diabetics with advanced chronic pancreatitis of the tropics supports the concept of two different pathogenic mechanisms, one eliciting chronic pancreatitis and the other selective pancreatic beta-cell impairment and subsequent diabetes mellitus.


[Simultaneous determination of ephedrine and N-methylephedrine in urine by solid phase extraction-ultra performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry].
A rapid and sensitive method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of ephedrine and N-methylephedrine in urine samples by solid phase extraction-ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (SPE-UPLC-ESI MS/MS). The samples were extracted with Oasis MCX solid phase extraction cartridges and measured in the modes of electrospray positive ionization (ESI +) and multiple reaction monitoring (MRM). Good linearities were observed in the range of 0.025 0 - 2.50 microg/L with correlation coefficient over 0.999 0 for both analytes. The recoveries were above 80% with RSDs less than 5.0%. The limits of detection were 0.01 microg/L. The method proves to be rapid and sensitive for the trace determination of ephedrine and N-methylephedrine in urine samples.


Paracoccidioides brasiliensis-stimulated human gamma/delta T cells support antibody production by B cells.
Paracoccidioidomycosis patients show hyperactive humoral immune responses. Consequently, we investigated whether cytokines in supernatants from Paracoccidioides brasiliensis-stimulated gamma/delta T cells support B-cell activation. We detected proliferation of B cells and increased immunoglobulin M (IgM) and IgG production. Thus, gamma/delta T cells may participate in polyclonal B-cell activation during paracoccidioidomycosis.


Short stature: increased in children with severe learning disability.
'Health for all children' recommends that children should be screened for growth disorders at school entry with a 0.4th centile 'cut-off'. Following the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency in four children attending local special schools, our aim was to compare the height distribution of children attending special schools with mainstream schools. Children at two local special schools were measured using a Leicester height measurer and values converted to standard deviation scores (SDS). Children were categorized according to whether there were known factors that could affect height. The data were compared with those collected from local mainstream schools. In total, 242 children were registered at the two special schools and 192 children were measured. The mean height SDS of children in mainstream school (n = 2301) was similar to national standards at -0.09 (SD 1.02). The mean height SDS distribution of the 192 children in special schools (age range 3.2-18.4 years; median age 11.3 years) was -0.73; 95%CI -0.9 to -0.5. In those with no established diagnosis to explain altered growth (n = 120) this was -0.613; 95%CI -0.8 to -0.4. Both pre-pubertal (n = 37) and pubertal (n = 83) children were short and eight (6.7%) had a height less than the 0.4th centile. Children attending special school with severe or profound learning disability were shorter than those attending mainstream school. This is still the case following the exclusion of children with a known cause for abnormal growth. This underlines the importance of each child being assessed by professionals with a refined knowledge of normal and abnormal growth.


Steady-state cultures of human skin.
Pretransplantation cultivation of adult human skin has been optimized for rapid and prolonged outgrowth of epidermal cells from tissue explants using autonomic-perfusion, thin-layer culture technology (steady-state). This system fostered growth of autologous mesenchymal elements via critical control of the culture environment. The resulting cellular outgrowth maintained a balanced epithelial-dermal relationship, contained keratinocytes as well as minority epidermal cells, melanocytes and possibly Langerhans cells. Critical control of culture pH and osmolarity was found to enhance epithelial cell proliferation.


Starting minimally invasive valve surgery using endoclamp technology: safety and results of a starting surgeon.
To critically review the learning curve, safety issues and outcome of a single surgeon while starting up minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS). We performed a descriptive, retrospective study of 138 patients with minimally invasive mitral valve surgery between March 2004 and December 2010. The learning curve was assessed using a logarithmic curve-fit regression analysis of the cardiopulmonary bypass parameters and defined as the end of the steepest part. Complexity was assessed by the number of different techniques performed on the mitral valve and the number of concomitant procedures. Follow-up was obtained for embolic events, endocarditis, bleeding, reintervention, echocardiographic data and NYHA class. The learning curve was found in the last 30 cases. There was a significant reduction in aortic cross-clamp time before and after the end of the learning curve [Patients 1-30: 120.77 (±28.28); Patients 31-138: 97.57 (±5.66); P <0.0001]. Operations during the learning curve did not correlate with intensive care unit (ICU) [1.77 (±0.97) vs 2.06 (±1.38)] and hospital stay [10.00 (±2.74) vs 9.10 (±3.36)]. In 104 patients, the valve was reconstructed, whereas in 34 it was replaced. The complexity of mitral valve reconstruction gradually increased and proportion of mitral valve replacement decreased, partly by expanding minimally invasive mitral valve surgery indications. Eighteen patients underwent 25 concomitant procedures and four conversions were necessary (after Patient 30). Minimal follow-up was 1 year with a mean follow-up of 1211 ± 651 days. No procedure-related mortality was encountered and mitral regurgitation after mitral valve repair was classified as Grade 1 or less in 101 of 104 patients at the end of follow-up. Implementation of new equipment and techniques is challenging. However, minimally invasive mitral valve surgery with the endoclamp system is safe even during the learning curve. During our evolution from simple reconstructions/replacements to complex valve surgery with concomitant procedures, we could safely optimize our technique without mortality. A longer aortic cross-clamp time during the learning curve did not result in longer ICU and hospital stay.


[Diagnosis of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection: diagnostic value of the anti-HCV test].
Different groups of patients were analysed for antibody to hepatitis-C-virus (anti-HCV). A high prevalence was found in individuals with parenteral exposure (chronic Non-A, Non-B hepatitis, 77.5%, drug addicts 84.5%), while blood donors had a prevalence of 0.51%, this was significantly higher in patients with chronic type B hepatitis (30%), in homosexuals (22.5%) and in patients with different types of autoimmune hepatitis (57.2%). This indicates that differential diagnosis of chronic hepatitis and indications for alpha interferon therapy is not possible by simply anti-HCV testing. Further studies are required to establish the diagnostic value of the anti-HCV test.


"We can't give up. It's too important." Health and safety stories from Canadian and U.S. schools.
Schools are supposed to be places where children learn and thrive; not where they, teachers, and other staff get sick. The hazards are many but recognition of those hazards is hard to come by in schools in Canada and the United States. The result can be an uphill fight for school-based organizations and unions. Representatives of four such groups, two each from Canada and the United States, discuss the hazards and their effects. They also have many-often unrecognized-successes and related lessons to share. These include taking comprehensive approaches, looking for broad sweeps and entrees, using building sciences and strategies of solid information, acting with respect and with persistence, including students and parents, going for green cleaners, and using participatory methods. The representatives build on these to discuss what else needs to be done. The ideas are underpinned by the creativity, dedication, and persistence evident in their work to date.


Taste receptor cell responses to the bitter stimulus denatonium involve Ca2+ influx via store-operated channels.
Previous studies in rat and mouse have shown that brief exposure to the bitter stimulus denatonium induces an increase in [Ca2+]i due to Ca2+ release from intracellular Ca2+ stores, rather than Ca2+ influx. We report here that prolonged exposure to denatonium induces sustained increases in [Ca2+]i that are dependent on Ca2+ influx. Similar results were obtained from taste cells of the mudpuppy, Necturus maculosus, as well as green fluorescent protein (GFP) tagged gustducin-expressing taste cells of transgenic mice. In a subset of mudpuppy taste cells, prolonged exposure to denatonium induced oscillatory Ca2+ responses. Depletion of Ca2+ stores by thapsigargin also induced Ca2+ influx, suggesting that Ca2+ store-operated channels (SOCs) are present in both mudpuppy taste cells and gustducin-expressing taste cells of mouse. Further, treatment with thapsigargin prevented subsequent responses to denatonium, suggesting that the SOCs were the source of the Ca2+ influx. These data suggest that SOCs may contribute to bitter taste transduction and to regulation of Ca2+ homeostasis in taste cells.


A new contrast sensitivity vision test chart.
A new contrast sensitivity vision chart has been tested and compared to an automated video-based vision tester on 83 observers whose ages ranged from 9 to 75 years. Good agreement was found between the contrast sensitivity measurements obtained from the vision chart and the automated tester for similar population and age variations. These results suggest that vision test charts can be developed to provide useful contrast sensitivity psychometric functions and yet be as simple to use as present eye charts.


Specialisation in nursing: are we ready for the year 2000?
The development of specialty nursing practice and nurse specialists in today's health care arena is a controversial yet growing force, fuelled by a complexity of factors from both within and external to the profession. By narrowing the focus on parts of the whole field of nursing, nurses have met the challenge of increasing technology, complexity of the health care system, and nursing care needs. Although the debate regarding nurse specialists continues to rage, the production of such nurses will push beyond the boundaries of the profession into the new millennium, in the interests of patient care.


Genomes to Fields 2022 Maize genotype by Environment Prediction Competition.
The Genomes to Fields (G2F) 2022 Maize Genotype by Environment (GxE) Prediction Competition aimed to develop models for predicting grain yield for the 2022 Maize GxE project field trials, leveraging the datasets previously generated by this project and other publicly available data. This resource used data from the Maize GxE project within the G2F Initiative [1]. The dataset included phenotypic and genotypic data of the hybrids evaluated in 45 locations from 2014 to 2022. Also, soil, weather, environmental covariates data and metadata information for all environments (combination of year and location). Competitors also had access to ReadMe files which described all the files provided. The Maize GxE is a collaborative project and all the data generated becomes publicly available [2]. The dataset used in the 2022 Prediction Competition was curated and lightly filtered for quality and to ensure naming uniformity across years.


Laparoscopic upper-pole heminephrectomy for ectopic ureter: surgical technique.
A duplex kidney associated with a poorly functioning upper-pole segment is commonly associated with incontinence, voiding dysfunction, and urinary tract infections. A standard treatment option for this condition is upper-pole heminephrectomy. With the continued development of minimally invasive urology, this technique can now be safely performed laparoscopically. This report details step by step our technique of laparoscopic upper-pole heminephrectomy. Key points include placement of a catheter in the normal ureter at the start of the case, full mobilization of the upper-pole ureter away from the renal hilum, and precise identification of the vasculature supplying the upper pole. Laparoscopic upper-pole heminephrectomy for ectopic ureter is safe and reproducible and offers the patient the typical postoperative benefits of laparoscopic surgery.


Sodium and potassium saturation kinetics of Na+K+-ATPase in plasma membranes from corneal endothelium: fresh tissue vs. tissue culture.
The maximal velocity (Vmax) and the apparent dissociation constant (K0.5) of Na+K+-ATPase have each been estimated with respect to sodium and potassium ion activation. These estimations were made from the enzymatic activity of plasma membrane preparations derived from bovine corneal endothelial cells. The determinations were made on cells obtained from fresh tissue and from secondary tissue cultures. Two methods were used to obtain the estimates: the first used a combination of Eadie-Hofstee and Hill plots; the second used Eisenthal-Cornish-Bowden plots. The Vmax for sodium was 5.58-5.60 mumol Pi/mg protein/30 min for fresh tissue vs. 2.00-1.80 mumoles Pi/mg protein/30 min for tissue cultures. The corresponding K0.5 values were 62-57 mM (fresh tissue) vs. 7.9-6.7 mM (tissue culture). Vmax for potassium was 4.28-4.00 mumoles Pi/mg protein/30 min for fresh tissue vs. 1.37-1.34 mumoles Pi/mg protein/30 min for tissue cultures. The corresponding K0.5 values were 3.3-3.1 mM (fresh tissue) and 1.7-1.7 mM (tissue culture). The results indicate a lowered activity and change in affinity of the enzyme for the two ions in tissue cultures compared to fresh tissues. The detergent Lubrol W-X increased activity in both tissue sources. Sonication had no significant effect on the activity. Variations in pH (7-9) indicated that the highest activity was obtained at pH 7.8 for the enzyme in tissue culture while activity was highest at pH 8.0 for the enzyme in fresh tissues. These differences in kinetic activity suggest a response to changes in the ion requirements of these cells due to their environment, developmental stage or some other parameter.


Surgical lengthening of the clinical tooth crown.
To understand why the crown lengthening may be desirable, a review of periodontal anatomy is in order. The odontologists know, but often underestimate importance of periodontal tissues health to restoration of defected teeth or dental arches. In order to avoid pathological changes, to predict treatment results more precisely, it is necessary to keep gingival biological width unaltered during teeth restoration. If there are less than 2 mm from restoration's margin to marginal bone clinical crown lengthening possibility should be considered in dental treatment plan. The choice depends on relationship of crown-root-alveolar bone and esthetical expectations. In order to keep margins of restoration supragingivally the distance from marginal bone to margins of restoration should not be less than 3 mm. Ideally the margins of restoration should be supragingivally or in the same level as marginal gingiva. When the margins of restoration are prepared subgingivally, the distance from marginal gingiva to margins of restoration should not be more than 0.7 mm. To continue dental treatment in operated area is recommended not earlier than in 4 weeks, and making restorations in esthetical area--not earlier than in 6 weeks.


The Reaffirmation of Self? Narrative Inquiry for Researching Violence Against Women and Stigma.
Stigma presents specific ethical and epistemological problems for qualitative researchers of violence against women. Narrative research methods promise to enable ethical research on violence while still offering deep insight into stigmatized topics. This article describes narrative methods used in six focus group discussions and four in-depth interviews with victim-survivors of violence against women, all African migrant women living in Ireland. The article connects narrative and stigma in research with the social lives of participants. It concludes with specific recommendations for creative uses of narrative inquiry to explore stigmatized themes, noting that stigma can never be entirely removed from the research encounter.


Comparing pain sensitivity and the nociceptive flexion reflex threshold across the mid-follicular and late-luteal menstrual phases in healthy women.
Understanding the relationship between the menstrual cycle and pain can contribute significantly to our knowledge of pain processing in women. Many early studies suggested that pain sensitivity was enhanced during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle relative to the follicular phase; however, these studies were often limited by small sample sizes, lack of ovulation verification, focus on a single pain modality, inadequate assessment of menstrual cycle regularity, and low-powered statistical methods. The current study was designed to address these limitations and examine the difference in pain processing between the mid-follicular (days 5 to 8) and late-luteal (days 1 to 6 preceding menses) phases. Forty-one healthy, regularly cycling women attended testing sessions that measured pain sensitivity from mechanical pain threshold, electrocutaneous pain threshold/tolerance, and ischemia pain threshold/tolerance, as well as McGill Pain Questionnaire qsensory and affective ratings of electric and ischemic stimuli. Electrocutaneous stimulation was also used to assess nociceptive flexion reflex threshold, a physiological measure of spinal nociception. When analyses were limited to data collected only in the targeted menstrual phases (N=30), results indicated no menstrual phase effect on any pain outcome (all P's>0.05), with the exception of lower electrocutaneous pain thresholds during the late-luteal phase. No outcomes differed by menstrual phase in the full sample (N=41). This indicates nociceptive responding varies little between the mid-follicular and late-luteal phases. The present study suggests that experimental pain processing does not significantly differ between the mid-follicular and late-luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in healthy women. This implies hormonal variation across these 2 phases (ie, progesterone) has a minimal effect on subjective and physiological responses to pain.


Influenceable and Avoidable Risk Factors for Systemic Air Embolism due to Percutaneous CT-Guided Lung Biopsy: Patient Positioning and Coaxial Biopsy Technique-Case Report, Systematic Literature Review, and a Technical Note.
Following the first case of a systemic air embolism due to percutaneous CT-guided lung biopsy in our clinic we analysed the literature regarding this matter in view of influenceable or avoidable risk factors. A systematic review of literature reporting cases of systemic air embolism due to CT-guided lung biopsy was performed to find out whether prone positioning might be a risk factor regarding this issue. In addition, a technical note concerning coaxial biopsy practice is presented. Prone position seems to have relevance for the development and/or clinical manifestation of air embolism due to CT-guided lung biopsy and should be considered a risk factor, at least as far as lesions in the lower parts of the lung are concerned. Biopsies of small or cavitary lesions in coaxial technique should be performed using a hemostatic valve.


A new species of Monoblastus Hartig, 1837 (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae: Tryphoninae) from South Korea.
A new ichneumonid species, Monoblastus koreensis sp. nov. is described from South Korea. New data on the taxonomy and distribution of M. clauseni (Uchida), M. erythrurus Townes et al. and M. nigriventus Lee Cha are given. The taxonomic position of M. nigriventus and its similarity to M. ermolenkoi Kasparyan from Russian Kuril Islands is discussed. All these species are keyed and illustrated. Erromenus alpinator Aubert sensu Lee Cha (= Monoblastus koreensis sp. nov.) is excluded from the fauna of South Korea.


The coming era of a new auscultation system for analyzing respiratory sounds.
Auscultation with stethoscope has been an essential tool for diagnosing the patients with respiratory disease. Although auscultation is non-invasive, rapid, and inexpensive, it has intrinsic limitations such as inter-listener variability and subjectivity, and the examination must be performed face-to-face. Conventional stethoscope could not record the respiratory sounds, so it was impossible to share the sounds. Recent innovative digital stethoscopes have overcome the limitations and enabled clinicians to store and share the sounds for education and discussion. In particular, the recordable stethoscope made it possible to analyze breathing sounds using artificial intelligence, especially based on neural network. Deep learning-based analysis with an automatic feature extractor and convoluted neural network classifier has been applied for the accurate analysis of respiratory sounds. In addition, the current advances in battery technology, embedded processors with low power consumption, and integrated sensors make possible the development of wearable and wireless stethoscopes, which can help to examine patients living in areas of a shortage of doctors or those who need isolation. There are still challenges to overcome, such as the analysis of complex and mixed respiratory sounds and noise filtering, but continuous research and technological development will facilitate the transition to a new era of a wearable and smart stethoscope.


Family functioning and perceived support from nurses during cancer treatment among Danish and Australian patients and their families.
This study aimed to compare family functioning and perceptions of support from nurses among Danish and Australian adult oncology patients and family members. Family can have a strong influence on the health of individuals, providing support during a health crisis such as cancer. However, family functioning and supportive care from nurses may vary across cultures and settings. A descriptive, cross-sectional comparative design with patients and family members from Denmark and Australia. Participants were asked to fill in translated versions of the Iceland-Expressive Family Functioning Questionnaire (ICE-EFFQ) and Iceland-Expressive Family Perceived Support Questionnaire (ICE-FPSQ). In total, 232 participants were recruited. The Danish cohort consisted of 56 patients and 54 family members. The Australian cohort consisted of 83 patients and 39 family members. Mean age was 59 years. No significant differences were found between Danish and Australian families. However, compared to patients, family members reported significantly lower overall family functioning, expressive emotions and communication, as well as less emotional support from nurses. Family functioning was comparable between Denmark and Australia. Family members reported less emotional support than patients. Nurses need to consider the patient and the family as a unit with complex needs that require monitoring and attention during oncology treatment. Families supporting a member with cancer have significant and often unmet needs. Assessment, information-sharing and health education need to include the family. Supportive care information may be shared between Denmark and Australia and inspires the development of common guidelines for optimal family nursing practice.


Use of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody assay to distinguish between vasculitic disease activity and complications of cytotoxic therapy.
Anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) determinations appear to be useful in the diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic monitoring of patients with necrotizing vasculitis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether semiquantitative ANCA measurements are useful in distinguishing between increases in primary disease activity and complications of cytotoxic or immunosuppressive therapy. The authors reviewed clinical data from 27 consecutive ANCA-positive patients who had at least three ANCA determinations performed at the University of Michigan Medical Center. Eleven patients had Wegener's granulomatosis (WG), 3 had "limited" WG; 9 had "ANCA-positive" vasculitis; and 4 had "pauciimmune" rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. During a period of 3 months to 3.8 years, 159 ANCA determinations were performed, primarily for the purposes of diagnosis and monitoring disease activity. Eleven episodes were identified in which a single ANCA assay was used to distinguish between increased primary disease activity and a suspected therapeutic complication. The suspected therapeutic complications included pneumonia (8 of 11), bacterial sinusitis (1 of 11), cyclophosphamide-induced pneumonitis (1 of 11), and cyclophosphamide-induced vestibular toxicity (1 of 11). In 10 of 11 instances in which an ANCA assay was used to distinguish between an exacerbation in vasculitic disease activity and a therapeutic complication, interpretation of the ANCA titer was pivotal in arriving at a therapeutically appropriate decision either to increase or discontinue cytotoxic therapy. This study suggests that ANCA determinations can be used reliably to distinguish between increased primary disease activity and complications of therapy that mimic an increase in disease activity.


Antigen recognition by T cells. II. Intravenous administration of native or denatured ovalbumin results in tolerance to both forms of the antigen.
In the accompanying report, suppressor T cells were demonstrated that did not recognize cross-reactivity between native and denatured ovalbumin (N-OVA and D-OVA). Here we show that the T cell tolerance induced by i.v. injections of antigen does detect cross-reactivity between N-OVA and D-OVA. Mice that had been immunized with either N-OVA or D-OVA in adjuvant could be rendered profoundly unresponsive if either N-OVA or D-OVA, but not an unrelated protein, were injected i.v. Cross-tolerance was observed in assays of antigen-induced T cell proliferation and helper T cell activity. Tolerance was distinguished from suppressor T cell activity by three criteria: 1) specificity for N-OVA and D-OVA, 2) sensitivity to abrogation by cyclophosphamide, 3) duration of effectiveness. These results confirm observations made by others that suggest that tolerance is mediated by an additional mechanism(s) other than suppressor T cells. Based on a hypothesis that cross-reactivity between native and denatured antigen is related to macrophage processing of antigen, these data also suggest a critical role for processed antigen in the induction of tolerance when antigen is administered i.v.


Obstetric and gynecologic complications in women with Marfan syndrome.
To analyze the maternal and fetal outcomes of pregnancy and gynecologic problems in women with Marfan syndrome. The outcomes of 14 pregnancies in 4 women with Marfan syndrome were prospectively observed between January 1988 and December 2000. The cardiovascular and obstetric complications were analyzed. During pregnancy all the patients were carefully monitored with serial echocardiography and close attention to symptoms. Of the 14 pregnancies, 5 (35.7%) ended in abortion, and 3 of them occurred in the early second trimester due to cervical incompetence. Premature onset of labor occurred in 2 pregnancies at 31 and 34 weeks. Postpartum hemorrhage complicated 3 deliveries, and inversion of the uterus occurred in 1 patient. Significant cardiovascular complications occurred in 2 patients, who required surgical correction of the aortic aneurysm and replacement of the aortic valve. In one patient the operation was performed within hours of vaginal delivery, and the other patient underwent surgery 8 weeks postpartum. No maternal death occurred in the study. One infant in the series was diagnosed as having Marfan syndrome. A premature infant delivered at 31 weeks died on the second day of life. Women with Marfan syndrome are at high risk of aortic dissection in pregnancy even in the absence of preconceptional aortic root dilatation. Obstetric complications in patients with this condition have been underreported in the past. Women with aortic root dilatation of < 40 mm usually tolerate pregnancy well, with good maternal and fetal outcomes. Women with Marfan syndrome should be counseled regarding the risk of pregnancy to both mother and fetus. Patients who have cardiac decompensation or aortic dilatation > 40 mm are advised to avoid pregnancy.


Impact of geometry optimization methods on QSAR modelling: A case study for predicting human serum albumin binding affinity.
Quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) modelling is a major tool employed in the prediction of various endpoints. However, current QSAR literature is missing a full understanding of the impact of quantum chemical calculation methods on the estimation of molecular descriptors and model performance. Here, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the quantitative effects of different geometry optimization methods (semi-empirical, ab initio Hartee-Fock and density functional theory) on the molecular descriptors. Using experimental binding affinity to human serum albumin (HSA) data, we comparatively investigated the influence of employing descriptors derived from three calculation methods on the QSAR models. We propose a 4-descriptor QSAR model in line with the OECD validation principles for the prediction of drug binding affinity to HSA (log KHSA) as a potential tool for drug development. We also confirm the prediction capability of the proposed model on a heterogeneous external set of chemicals. Furthermore, we recommend an activity-independent rational approach for the selection of geometry optimization method for an improved QSAR model development.


Neural substrates of updating the prediction through prediction error during decision making.
Learning of prediction error (PE), including reward PE and risk PE, is crucial for updating the prediction in reinforcement learning (RL). Neurobiological and computational models of RL have reported extensive brain activations related to PE. However, the occurrence of PE does not necessarily predict updating the prediction, e.g., in a probability-known event. Therefore, the brain regions specifically engaged in updating the prediction remain unknown. Here, we conducted two functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) experiments, the probability-unknown Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) and the probability-known risk decision task (RDT). Behavioral analyses confirmed that PEs occurred in both tasks but were only used for updating the prediction in the IGT. By comparing PE-related brain activations between the two tasks, we found that the rostral anterior cingulate cortex/ventral medial prefrontal cortex (rACC/vmPFC) and the posterior cingulate cortex (PCC) activated only during the IGT and were related to both reward and risk PE. Moreover, the responses in the rACC/vmPFC and the PCC were modulated by uncertainty and were associated with reward prediction-related brain regions. Electric brain stimulation over these regions lowered the performance in the IGT but not in the RDT. Our findings of a distributed neural circuit of PE processing suggest that the rACC/vmPFC and the PCC play a key role in updating the prediction through PE processing during decision making.


A simple microbiological tool to evaluate the effect of environmental health interventions on hand contamination.
The effects of interventions such as sanitation or hand hygiene on hand contamination are difficult to evaluate. We explored the ability of a simple microbiological test to: (1) detect recontamination after handwashing; (2) reflect risk factors for microbial contamination and (3) be applicable to large populations. The study was done in rural Andhra Pradesh, India, and Maputo, Mozambique. Participants placed all 10 fingertips on a chromogenic agar that stains Enterococcus spp. and E. coli spp. Outcomes were the number of colonies and the number of fingertips with colonies. In the recontamination study, participants were randomised to handwashing with soap and no handwashing, and tested at 30 min intervals afterwards. In two cross sectional studies, risk factors for hand contamination were explored. Recontamination of hands after washing with soap was fast, with baseline levels reached after 1 h. Child care was associated with higher Enterococcus spp. counts, whereas agricultural activities increased E. coli spp. counts. Food preparation was associated with higher counts for both organisms. In Maputo, counts were not strongly associated with water access, latrine type, education or diarrhoea. The method seems unsuitable for the evaluation of handwashing promotion. It may reflect immediately preceding risk practices but not household-level risk factors.


Main results of the Korea National Hospital Discharge In-depth Injury Survey, 2004-2016.
The purpose of this study was to estimate the incidence of injuries and to identify their causes by classifying injuries according to various categories including age, sex, mechanism of injury, body parts injured, and place of injury. This study used data from the Korea National Hospital Discharge In-depth Injury Survey (KNHDIS) from 2004 to 2016. The KNHDIS is conducted annually by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and its survey population includes all hospitalized patients discharged from medical institutions that have 100 or more beds, such as hospitals, general hospitals, and secondary community health centers. The number of injured cases is weighted and estimated using the mid-year estimated population of each year. The injury discharge rate steadily increased since 2004 (1,505 per 100,000 population in 2004, 2,007 per 100,000 population in 2016) and most injuries were unintentional (annual average of 94.7%). On average, during the 13-year study period, the injury rate for males was 1.5 times as high as for females. The 2 main causes of injury were consistently traffic accidents and falls. Notably, the rate of injuries resulting from falls rose by 1.7-fold from 463 to 792 per 100,000 people, and exceeded the rate of traffic accidents in 2016. The incidence of injuries steadily increased after the survey was first conducted, whereas mortality resulting from injuries mostly remained unchanged. This suggests that effective strategies and interventions should be reinforced to reduce unintentional injuries.


The first Ig domain of KIR3DL1 contacts MHC class I at a secondary site.
KIR3DL1 is a highly polymorphic inhibitory killer cell Ig-like receptor (KIR) implicated in resistance to viral diseases such as AIDS. KIR3DL1 contains three Ig domains and is specific for MHC class I (MHC-I) molecules belonging to the HLA-Bw4 serogroup. The receptor's second and third Ig domains confer the Bw4 specificity, but the role of the first Ig domain (D0) in ligand recognition has remained enigmatic. We found that KIR3DL1 expressed in YTS cells and as a soluble receptor can weakly recognize additional MHC-I molecules including HLA-B*0702 and HLA-G. This interaction is highly sensitive to blocking with Abs to the MHC-I α3-domain and the anti-KIR3DL1 Ab Z27, but not the canonical blocking Ab DX9. Using chimeric receptors between KIR3DL1 and KIR2DL1 expressed on YTS cells and as soluble Fc-fusion proteins, we show that the D0 domain confers the broad functional recognition and binding as well as the reactivity with Z27. These results suggest that the presence of a second and independent site of interaction between D0 and MHC-I and that MHC-I could bridge KIR3DL1 molecules together in a manner that facilitates signaling.


A rotating-slit-collimator-based gamma radiation mapper.
For situations with radioactive material out of control where it may be physically difficult or prohibited to access areas close to the source, measurements from distance may be the only way to assess the radiation environment. Using collimated detectors will provide means to locate the direction of the radiation from the source. To investigate the possibilities of mapping gamma emitting radioactive material in a closed non-enterable area, a tentative system for mapping radioactive materials from a distance was built. The system used a computer controlled cylindrical rotating slit collimator with a high purity germanium detector placed in the cylinder. The system could be placed on a car-towed trailer, with the centre of the detector about 1.4 m above ground. Mapping was accomplished by the use of a specially developed image reconstruction algorithm that requires measurements from two or more locations around the area to be investigated. The imaging capability of the system was tested by mapping an area, 25 by 25 m2, containing three 330 MBq 137Cs point sources. Using four locations outside the area with about 20 min measuring time in each location and applying the image reconstruction algorithm on the deconvoluted data, the system indicated the three source locations with an uncertainty of 1-3 m. The results demonstrated the potential of using collimated mobile gamma radiometry combined with image reconstruction to localize gamma sources inside non-accessible areas.


The development of a sunscreen.
Australians generally admire an evenly tanned skin, and the ability to acquire such a tan without much or any discomfort due to burning, is widely prized and envied. Various topical sunscreens have been introduced in order to facilitate the attainment of such a state, and this paper describes the stages in the development of such a product. The final product must obviously contain an active ingredient with the necessary selective filtering properties. This ingredient, and the vehicle in which it is presented, must be free of sensitising properties and must not cause acute or chronic toxic effects. Finally, it must be shown, under various typical conditions of use, to possess overall efficacy in terms of protecting from burning while permitting tanning.


Comparative performance of five recombinant and chimeric antigens in a time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay for detection of Toxoplasma gondii infection in cats.
Felids are definitive hosts of Toxoplasma gondii, being the only hosts that can spread the infection through oocyst shedding in their feces. The elevated presence of this parasite in the domestic cat (Felis catus), and its close contact with humans, make it necessary to obtain reliable diagnostic methods to detect positive animals as a public health measure. For this reason, in this study, the diagnostic performance of five different recombinant antigen-based techniques was assessed to diagnose T. gondii infection in cat blood plasma samples. Specifically, four T. gondii recombinant antigens (GRA7, truncated GRA7, SAG2, and truncated SAG2) and a chimeric antigen (SAG1-GRA8) were used. A time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay (TRFIA) was developed for each antigen, and the results of each of these techniques were compared with those obtained by a commercial enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) and a modified agglutination test (MAT) as reference techniques. The TRFIA based on SAG1-GRA8 antigen showed better discrimination between seropositive and seronegative cats (p < 0.001), as well as a better area under the curve (0.95), sensitivity (93.6%), and specificity (89.5%) values for the optimal cut-off, versus the other TRFIAs. In addition, SAG1-GRA8 TRFIA showed substantial agreement (kappa value = 0.78) and a moderate significant correlation (Spearman's correlation: r = 0.62, p < 0.001) compared with the reference techniques. On the other hand, since plasma samples were obtained from 101 cats in Bangkok city and four of them were Neospora caninum seropositive by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFAT), this is the first time that anti-N. caninum antibodies are detected in cats in Thailand. In conclusion, our study highlights that the TRFIA with TgSAG1-GRA8 antigen is an accurate and recommended diagnostic technique for detecting anti-T. gondii antibodies in cats.


Evaluation design of a systematic, selective, internet-based, Chlamydia screening implementation in the Netherlands, 2008-2010: implications of first results for the analysis.
A selective, systematic, Internet-based, Chlamydia Screening Implementation for 16 to 29-year-old residents started in three regions in the Netherlands in April 2008: in the cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam and a more rural region, South Limburg. This paper describes the evaluation design and discusses the implications of the findings from the first screening round for the analysis. The evaluation aims to determine the effects of screening on the population prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis after multiple screening rounds. A phased implementation or 'stepped wedge design' was applied by grouping neighbourhoods (hereafter: clusters) into three random, risk-stratified blocks (A, B and C) to allow for impact analyses over time and comparison of prevalences before and after one or two screening rounds. Repeated simulation of pre- and postscreening Chlamydia prevalences was used to predict the minimum detectable decline in prevalence. Real participation and positivity rates per region, block, and risk stratum (high, medium, and low community risk) from the 1st year of screening were used to substantiate predictions. The results of the 1st year show an overall participation rate of 16% of 261,025 invitees and a positivity rate of 4.2%, with significant differences between regions and blocks. Prediction by simulation methods adjusted with the first-round results indicate that the effect of screening (minimal detectable difference in prevalence) may reach significance levels only if at least a 15% decrease in the Chlamydia positivity rate in the cities and a 25% decrease in the rural region after screening can be reached, and pre- and postscreening differences between blocks need to be larger. With the current participation rates, the minimal detectable decline of Chlamydia prevalence may reach our defined significance levels at the regional level after the second screening round, but will probably not be significant between blocks of the stepped wedge design. Evaluation will also include other aspects and prediction models to obtain rational advice about future Chlamydia screening in the Netherlands.


Effect of antibiotics on polycation-treated Escherichia coli HB101 (pRI203).
In the present paper, we demonstrated that low concentrations of various polycationic agents sensitize E. coli HB 101 harboring the plasmid pRI203, containing the Y. pseudotuberculosis invasion region, to antibiotics rifampicin, amikacin, ceftazidime and cefotaxime. These antibiotics, known to be excluded, to various degrees, by the bacterial outer membrane, resulted several-fold more active towards polycation-treated bacteria by comparison with controls. This increased permeability to antibiotics of E. coli HB 101 (pRI203) probably depends upon the binding of polycations to the acidic moieties of lipopolysaccharide, as already suggested for other gram-negative bacteria.


Nonanomalous heat transport in a one-dimensional composite chain.
Translation-invariant low-dimensional systems are known to exhibit anomalous heat transport. However, there are systems, such as the coupled-rotor chain, where translation invariance is satisfied, yet transport remains diffusive. It has been argued that the restoration of normal diffusion occurs due to the impossibility of defining a global stretch variable with a meaningful dynamics. In this Letter, an alternative mechanism is proposed, namely, that the transition to anomalous heat transport can occur at a scale that, under certain circumstances, may diverge to infinity. To illustrate the mechanism, I consider the case of a composite chain that conserves local energy and momentum as well as global stretch, and at the same time obeys, in the continuum limit, Fourier's law of heat transport. It is shown analytically that for vanishing elasticity the stationary temperature profile of the chain is linear; for finite elasticity, the same property holds in the continuum limit.


Identifying cross contaminants and specimen mix-ups in surgical pathology.
Maintaining patient identity throughout laboratory processing is critical for any diagnostic pathology laboratory. It has also been listed as a main National Patient Safety Goal for the Joint Commission Laboratory Goals. Most pathology facilities have excellent quality assurance programs and initiatives that include multiple checkpoints to ensure that specimen identity is carefully maintained. Even in the best laboratory operations, however, the potential for specimen mix-up, cross contamination, floaters, or carry-over artifacts cannot be eliminated completely. The work-up and analysis of these cases can be challenging to the pathologist for a number of reasons, including the fact that there is no standardized approach. This review discusses a standardized approach that includes clinical correlation, laboratory correlation, and laboratory analysis, potentially including a molecular DNA fingerprinting analysis. The methods and techniques behind DNA fingerprinting for tissue and sample identity are also discussed in detail.


Rehabilitation in terminal cancer patients.
Good terminal care may be described as rehabilitation of the dying, and is exemplified in the modern hospice. The aim is to help the individual patient to do his best, given his illness, his symptoms, and his cultural, familial and personal background and beliefs. Comfort is the primary objective, not prolongation of life. The patient and his family should be regarded as the unit of care. Sixty per cent of patients with far-advanced cancer experience pain. In the majority of patients it is not difficult to control pain provided certain basic principles are adhered to: 1. Careful evaluation of cause(s) of pain. 2. Realization that pain is a somatopsychic experience. 3. Use of an appropriate analgesic on a time-contingent basis. 4. Recognition that the effective dose of a narcotic analgesic varies widely. 5. Use of both non-drug and drug treatments. 6. Continuing surveillance of all patients, particularly those receiving a narcotic analgesic. A comparable analytical and systematic approach is necessary also in the management of other symptoms. Patients need professional friendship and support if they are to adjust to declining physical health and a poor prognosis. Gentle openness in matters of communication is fundamental; evasion and deceit are essentially destructive. Thed family too need much help if they and the patient are to become mutually supportive. Terminal care cannot be done by individuals, only by individuals working together as a team.


Fluorescent Chemosensors with Varying Degrees of Intramolecular Charge Transfer for Detection of a Nerve Agent Mimic in Solutions and in Vapor.
Nerve agents are highly toxic organophosphorus compounds, and their possible use in terrorist attacks has led to increasing interest in the development of reliable and accurate methods to detect these lethal chemicals. In this paper, we have prepared six 6-aminoquinolines with various N-substituents as chemosensors for a nerve-agent mimic diethylchlorophosphate (DCP). The chemosensors with the nucleophilic pyridine-N atom as the active site detect DCP via a catalytic hydrolysis approach to form the protonated sensor. The nucleophilicity of the pyridine-N atom depends on the donating ability of the 6-amine group, which affects the intramolecular charge-transfer (ICT) character of sensors and the protonated sensors, leading to different fluorescence-response modes. The effects of the ICT character on the sensing property have been clarified. Among these charge transfer sensors, the sensor 3 displays ratiometric fluorescence response to DCP and a low limit of detection (8 nM). Furthermore, a facile testing strip with 3 has been fabricated with poly(ethylene oxide) for real-time selective monitoring of DCP vapor.


Cutaneous Metastases as Initial Presentation of Lung Carcinoma.
Breast cancer, in women, and lung cancer, in men, are the most common origins of cutaneous metastasis. Lung cancer can metastasize to any organ but mostly to the contralateral lung, liver, adrenal gland, bones, and brain. Over 1-12% of patients with lung cancer can develop skin metastasis. Non-small cell lung cancer includes 87% of lung cancer cases. Adenocarcinomas subtype accounts for approximately 40% of all lung cancers and is the most common histology in women. A woman's lifetime risk of developing lung cancer is 1 in 16 women but lower than that of a man (1 in 13 men). The survival rates of women with lung cancer are usually higher than those of men. Herein, we report the case of a 66-year-old female who presented with painless multiple skin nodules over the chest back and axilla for three months. On evaluation, biopsy and immunohistochemistry were done from skin nodules suggestive of adenocarcinoma. CT thorax showed lung mass and was diagnosed as a case of metastatic adenocarcinoma, primary being from the lung. Our case demonstrated that skin metastasis could be the first sign of internal malignancy. Metastasis to the skin is often a preterminal event that heralds a poor prognosis.


Environmental tobacco smoke.
A healthy and safe environment is a national public health priority. Clean air, free from tobacco smoke, is particularly vital since researchers have documented the link between tobacco smoke and increased morbidity and mortality in both smokers and non-smokers. Specifically, target goals for the year 2000, as established in the document, Health People 2000 (National Center for Health Statistics, 1990, 1994), include increasing the proportion of schools that are tobacco-free to 100%, increasing the proportion of work sites with formal smoking policies to 75%, and increasing the number of states with clean indoor air laws to 50%. As part of their role in promoting the public health and welfare, nurses need to actively support and help implement smoking policies in public places.


Electronic levels in silicon MaWCE nanowires: evidence of a limited diffusion of Ag.
Deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) was performed on lowly n-doped silicon nanowires grown by metal-assisted wet chemical etching (MaWCE) with silver as the catalyst in order to investigate the energetic scheme inside the bandgap. To observe the possible diffusion of atoms into the bulk, DLTS investigation was also performed on the samples after removing the nanowires. Two of the four energy levels observed in the nanowires were also detected inside the substrate. Based on these results and on literature data about deep levels in bulk silicon, some hypotheses are advanced regarding the identification of the defects responsible for the energy levels revealed.


A randomised trial of cranberry versus apple juice in the management of urinary symptoms during external beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer.
The aim of the study was to assess whether the oral intake of cranberry juice cocktail compared with apple juice was associated with a significant difference in urinary symptoms experienced during radical external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) for prostate carcinoma. One hundred and twelve men with prostate cancer were randomised to either 354 ml cranberry juice or apple juice a day. Stratification was based on a history of a previous transurethral resection of prostate (TURP yes/no) and baseline International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS < 6 or > or = 6) of urinary symptoms. The maximum IPSS (MRT) and the maximum change in IPSS from baseline (DRT) are used to report the results. We analysed the effects of juice allocation on DRT and MRT using analysis of covariates (ANCOVA). We observed no significant difference for DRT (P = 0.39) or MRT (P = 0.76) related to the consumption of cranberry compared with apple juice. However, we found a significant relationship between the history of a previous TURP and both DRT (P = 0.01) and MRT (P = 0.01). The history of a previous TURP was associated with lower values for both end points. Baseline IPSS was significant for DRT (P = 0.004) and MRT (P < or = 0.001). We found a significant relationship between the baseline IPSS < 6 or > or = 6 cut point on MRT (P < or = 0.001) but not on DRT (P = 0.43). The use of neoadjuvant hormones had no significant effect on DRT (P = 0.64) or MRT (P = 0.76). The use of additional symptomatic medication during the study was not significantly different between the two arms. This study shows no significant difference in the urinary symptoms experienced during EBRT related to the consumption of cranberry juice compared with apple juice.


[The effect of shear stress and flow pattern on proliferation of vascular endothelial cells].
The non-random distribution of atherosclerosis was related to local hemodynamic environment. The stabilization of endothelium was important in this process. We studied the effect of magnitude of shear stress on proliferation of endothelial cells. It was shown the proliferation of endothelial cells was inhibited by shear stress, and was related to the magnitude of shear stress. A parallel plate sudden-expansion flow chamber was constructed, and the effect of flow pattern was also studied. It was shown the inhibition effect produced by shear stress was decreased in this chamber.


Decreased G4 (10S) acetylcholinesterase content in motor nerves to fast muscles of dystrophic 129/ReJ mice: lack of a specific compartment of nerve acetylcholinesterase?
Acetylcholinesterase (AChE; EC 22.214.171.124) activity and the distribution of its molecular forms were studied in the nervous system of normal and dystrophic 129/ReJ mice, including the sciatic-tibial nerve trunk and motor nerves to slow- and fast-twitch muscles. In normal mice, motor nerves to the slow-twitch soleus exhibited a low AChE activity together with a low level of G4 (10S form) as compared with nerves of the predominantly fast-twitch plantaris and extensor digitorum longus. In contrast, in dystrophic mice, the AChE activity as well as the G4 content of nerves to the fast-twitch muscles were low, displaying an AChE content similar to that of the nerve of the soleus muscle. In the sciatic-tibial nerve trunk, the AChE activity decreased along the nerve in an exponential mode, at rates that were similar in both conditions. However, in dystrophic mice, the AChE activity was reduced throughout the nerve length by a constant value of approximately 180 nmol/h/mg protein. Further analyses indicated that AChE in this nerve trunk was distributed among two compartments, a decaying and a constant one. The decay involved exclusively the globular forms. The activity of A12 (16S form) remained constant along the nerve and was similar in both normal and dystrophic mice. In addition, according to the equation describing the decay of AChE, the reduction in enzymatic activity observed in the dystrophic mice affected mainly G4 in the constant compartment. Brain, spinal cord, sympathetic ganglia, and serum, which were also examined, showed no remarkable differences between the two conditions in their G4 content. The AChE abnormalities that we found in nervous tissues of 129/ReJ dystrophic mice were confined to the motor system.


Assessment of viral replication in eggs and HA protein yield of pre-pandemic H5N1 candidate vaccine viruses.
H5N1 infection and the potential for spread from human to human continue to pose a severe public health concern. Since vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent a potential H5N1 pandemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centers (CCs) and Essential Regulatory Laboratories (ERLs) engineered and developed a panel of H5N1 pre-pandemic vaccine viruses for pandemic vaccine preparedness as well as production of antigen potency testing reagents (reference antigen and reference anti-serum) for vaccine standardization. To develop a strategy utilizing a number of biochemical methods for the characterization of the viral growth properties and protein yield in eggs, we have selected eight H5N1 pre-pandemic viruses and determined the viral Egg Infectious Dose 50 (EID50), total protein yield, hemagglutinin (HA) to nucleoprotein (NP) ratios (HA:NP), and HA1 content of each virus. Our results showed that all the tested H5N1 vaccine viruses grew to high titers in eggs. The total viral protein yield varies within a narrow range, whereas there were greater differences in the HA:NP protein ratios among the eight viruses. The RP-HPLC based HA1 content analysis demonstrated that the viruses A/Anhui/1/2010, A/Hubei/1/2005, and A/goose/Guiyang/337/2006 contained higher HA contents than other five viruses including A/Vietnam/1203/2003. Our approach for analyzing virus growth and protein yield will allow us identify optimal vaccine virus in a timely manner. In addition, we successfully purified the HA proteins of H5N1 vaccine viruses by optimizing bromelain cleavage conditions. Our studies on the HA protein purification may improve the quality control of the production of influenza vaccine test reagent.


Reactive Oxygen Species-Related Inside-to-Outside Oxidation of Soot Particles Triggered by Visible-Light Irradiation: Physicochemical Property Changes and Oxidative Potential Enhancement.
Modifications of the physicochemical properties and oxidative potential (OP) of soot due to visible-light irradiation and its underlying mechanisms during atmospheric aging have not been elucidated. In this study, two types of soot obtained using different air/fuel ratios (A/F) were aged under visible light with or without ozone (O3) at an atmospherically relevant level in an environmental chamber. Physicochemical characteristics and OP of aged soot were systematically measured using the dithiothreitol (DTT) assay (OPDTT). Regardless of the presence of O3, visible light markedly promoted oxidation of soot, which led to consumption of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, formation of oxygen-containing functional groups, and enhancement of OPDTT values. Compared to low-A/F soot, high-A/F soot contained more elemental carbon but less organic carbon and was more sensitive to visible light by exhibiting greater changes. It was proposed that elemental carbon in soot under visible-light irradiation initiated an inside-to-outside oxidation pathway, where reactive oxygen species played an important role. This study clarified the solar irradiation-triggered self-oxidation process in soot, which is important to its atmospheric and health effects.


Transfusion of one HLA-DR antigen-matched blood to potential recipients of a renal allograft.
Patients awaiting a renal transplant were given 1 HLA-DR antigen-matched blood in order to compare the sensitization and graft outcome of these patients with those of control patients, who had been given random blood before transplantation. No differences in sensitization, measured by the formation of HLA antibodies, or in graft survival were found between the 2 groups. However, the incidence of rejection episodes was significantly reduced in the patients who received blood matched for 1 HLA-DR antigen compared with the patients who received random blood.


Waveguide resonator with an integrated phase modulator for second harmonic generation.
We report second harmonic generation from a titanium indiffused lithium niobate waveguide resonator device whose cavity length is locked to the fundamental pump laser using an on-chip phase modulator. The device remains locked for more than 5 minutes, producing more than 80% of the initial second harmonic power. The stability of the system is seen to be limited by DC-drift, a known effect in many lithium niobate systems that include deposited electrodes. The presented device explores the suitability of waveguide resonators in this platform for use in larger integrated networks.


Structure of the ecdysone-inducible P1 gene of Drosophila melanogaster.
The P1 gene codes for a major RNA, which accumulates specifically in the fat body cells at the late third larval stage of Drosophila melanogaster development under the positive control of the insect molting hormone 20-hydroxyecdysone. The primary structure of the P1 gene and the 5' upstream flanking region to position -776 relative to the transcription start was determined by sequence analysis of a cloned genomic DNA segment and two cDNAs containing sequences complementary to the 5' and 3' ends of the P1 transcript. The RNA coding region spans 3469 nucleotides and contains a 59-base-pair intron close to its 5' end, as predicted by computer analysis and established by S1 nuclease protection, primer extension and cDNA sequencing. The predicted P1 polypeptide contains 1030 amino acids, including a putative 16-amino acid signal peptide and two stretches of 12 and 11 aspartic and asparagine residues. Short stretches of nucleotide sequences similar to sequences located in the 5' regions of other genes expressed in the D. melanogaster fat body were found in the proximal promoter and transcribed region of the P1 gene.


Application of the Kombucha 'tea fungus' for the enhancement of antioxidant and starch hydrolase inhibitory properties of ten herbal teas.
Ten herbal teas (Acacia arabica, Aegle marmelos flower, A. marmelos root bark, Aerva lanata, Asteracantha longifolia, Cassia auriculata, Hemidesmus indicus, Hordeum vulgare, Phyllanthus emblica, Tinospora cordifolia) were fermented with the Kombucha 'tea fungus'. The pH values of the fermented beverages ranged from 4.0 to 6.0 by day 7, while the titratable acidity ranged from 2.5 to 5.0g/mL (P<0.05). Gallic acid had statistically significantly increased (P<0.05) in almost all the samples by day 7. The Oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay indicated 5 of the Kombucha beverages to have statistically significant increases (P<0.05) by day 7. The α-amylase inhibitory activities ranged from 52.5 to 67.2μg/mL in terms of IC50 values following fermentation, while the α-glucosidase inhibitory activities ranged from 95.2 to 196.1μg/mL. In conclusion, an enhancement of the antioxidant and starch hydrolase inhibitory potential of the herbal teas was observed by adding the tea fungus.


Effects of sevoflurane on female reproductive functions in Wistar rats.
To determine the effects of sevoflurane by inhalation on female reproductive hormones and ovarian tissues. This experimental study was conducted at the Gaziosmanpasa University, Tokat, Turkey, and comprised Wistar-Albino female rats. The rats were divided into six groups; one control and five study groups. The control group (C) received 2 L/min O2 in 18 min/day for seven days; the first study group (S1) received 1 minimum alveolar concentration sevoflurane + 2 L/min O2 in 18 min/day for seven days; the second group (S2) received 1 minimum alveolar concentration sevoflurane + 2 L/min O2 in 18 min/day for seven days and no treatment for the following seven days; the third group (S3) received 1 minimum alveolar concentration sevoflurane + 2 L/min O2 in 18 min/day for 14 days; the fourth group (S4) received 1 minimum alveolar concentration sevoflurane + 2 L/min O2 in 18 min/day for 14 days and no treatment for the following seven days; and the fifth group (S5) received 1 minimum alveolar concentration sevoflurane + 2 L/min O2 in 18 min/day for 14 days and no treatment for the following 14 days. The duration of the study was 28 days in February 2015. Reproductive system hormone levels were analysed and histological assessment of the ovaries was performed. SPSS 20 was used for data analysis. Of the 30 rats, there were 5(16.7%) in each group. Histological injury scores in S2, S3, S4, and S5 were significantly higher than in C (p=0.016, p=0.008, p=0.016 and p=0.032, respectively). The hormone levels belonging to follicle stimulating hormone, luteinising hormone, estradiol and progesterone revealed significant alterations in all groups (p<0.05). Chronic exposure to sevoflurane negatively affected the histological structure of the ovary and hormonal regulation.


Advances in the Management of Sickle Cell Disease: New Concepts and Future Horizons.
Sickle cell disease is a chronic and life-limiting disorder. Approximately 100,000 Americans are affected with sickle cell disease with most being African Americans. Newborn screening for sickle cell is available in the United States, leading to early detection and management of the disease beginning in infancy. According to the 2014 National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute sickle cell disease guidelines, supportive care has been primary management of sickle cell disease, with hydroxyurea being the only FDA-approved, disease-modifying pharmacotherapy available and allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant the only cure. Since 2017, three new disease-modifying therapies have been approved by the FDA: L-glutamine, crizanlizumab, and voxelotor. This review will discuss pertinent trials, dosing, interactions, side effects, access, cost, and their role in sickle cell management.


[Evaluation of the effectiveness of Riamilovir in the complex therapy of patients with COVID-19].
In this study we evaluated the effects of Riamilovir on SARS-CoV-2 viral shedding and on admission duration in patients with moderate COVID-19. We have used data from 69 health records of patients with moderate severe PCR confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Control group included 34 patients treated with off-label riamilovir 1250 mg per day for 5 days (250 mg 5 times a day), comparison groups 35 patients, who received ribavirin and umifenovir 800 mg a day for 5 days. The antiviral therapy was administered within 72 hours from the onset of the disease. The primary endpoints were elimination of virus in oropharyngeal and nasopharyngeal swabs on 7 day of admission and discharge from the hospital by 14 day. Patients assigned to riamilovir had significantly shorter time to clinical improvement as well as increased PCR negative rate by day 7. Yearly administration of riamilovir as opposed to the umifenovir and ribavirin in therapy of moderate SARS-CoV-2 infection was associated with significant shorter time to clinical improvement by 14 day of hospitalization. PCR negative rate by 7 days of hospitalization is significantly more likely in riamilovir group.


Ground beetles in Mediterranean olive agroecosystems: Their significance and functional role as bioindicators (Coleoptera, Carabidae).
The impact of agricultural practices and soil management on the communities of arthropods living in the agricultural landscape is acknowledged as a critical issue by the literature, and it needs to be better investigated to improve the ecological sustainability of agriculture. In the present study, we aimed to study how soil management affect carabid species distribution in one of the most typical agroecosystem of the Mediterranean region, i.e. the olive grove. In South Italy olive plantations feature different types of soil management, from tillage to half- or full-cover cropping. Species distribution has been examined for a total of 10,189 individuals and 62 species collected from 17 sites. Notably from our analysis we have observed that three factors (climax vegetation, soil features and soil management) explained half of the data variability. The composition of species groupings mirrors both bioclimatic conditions (climax vegetation) and soil features, especially watering, while soil management affects the species distribution, with different intensity from site to site. Eleven species have been recognized as the most abundant in the different facets of the studied olive groves and consequently designated as characteristics of the olive agroecosystem. The species traits of the sampled species have been weighted for a compelling evaluation of the effects of agricultural management on biodiversity, showing uniform traits distribution when coping with the ecological factors that characterize the different plantation facets. We have found that carabid beetles can be used as model organisms for studying the effects of agricultural practices. Our study suggests that the interaction of man-induced trasformation with the natural background of the olive agroecosystem may be difficult to disentangle, so that such complexity must be taken into account when carabid beetles are expected to provide an ecosystem service for good agricultural practices.


Light pollution in ultraviolet and visible spectrum: effect on different visual perceptions.
In general terms, lighting research has been focused in the development of artificial light with the purpose of saving energy and having more durable lamps. However, the consequences that artificial night lighting could bring to the human being and living organisms have become an important issue recently. Light pollution represents a significant problem to both the environment and human health causing a disruption of biological rhythms related not only to the visible spectrum, but also to other parts of the electromagnetic spectrum. Since the lamps emit across a wide range of the electromagnetic spectrum, all photobiological species may be exposed to another type of light pollution. By comparing five different lamps, the present study attempts to evaluate UV radiative fluxes relative to what humans and two species of insects perceive as sky glow level. We have analyzed three atmospheric situations: clear sky, overcast sky and evolving precipitable water content. One important finding suggests that when a constant illuminance of urban spaces has to be guaranteed the sky glow from the low pressure sodium lamps has the most significant effect to the visual perception of the insects tested. But having the fixed number of luminaires the situation changes and the low pressure sodium lamp would be the best choice for all three species. The sky glow effects can be interpreted correctly only if the lamp types and the required amount of scotopic luxes at the ground are taken into account simultaneously. If these two factors are combined properly, then the ecological consequences of sky glow can be partly reduced. The results of this research may be equally useful for lighting engineers, architects, biologists and researchers who are studying the effects of sky glow on humans and biodiversity.