Reaction of alkyn-1-yl(diorganyl)silanes with 1-boraadamantane: Si-H-B bridges confirmed by the molecular structure in the solid state and in solution.
1-Boraadamantane 1 was treated with alkyn-1-ylsilanes 2 containing one or two Si[bond]H functions. Under mild conditions, the reaction gave 4-methylene-3-borahomoadamantane derivatives 4 quantitatively and selectively by 1,1-organoboration. An electron deficient Si-H-B bridge was present in the product. The analogous reaction of 1 with an alkyn-1-yl-disilane 3 gave the corresponding alkene derivative 5, however, without the Si-H-B bridge. Evidence for the Si-H-B bridge in 4 was given by IR data, an extensive set of NMR spectroscopical data ((1)H, (11)B, (13)C, (29)Si NMR) including various unusual isotope effects on chemical shifts and coupling constants, as well as from the molecular structure of one example, 4 e, in the solid state. The precursor of 4 e, alkyne 2 e, Ph(2)Si(H)C[triple bond]CSi(H)Ph(2), was also studied by X-ray analysis.


Enantioselective hydrolysis of lorazepam 3-acetate by esterases in human and rat liver microsomes and rat brain S9 fraction.
Rates of hydrolysis of racemic and enantiomeric lorazepam 3-acetates (LZA) by esterases in human and rat liver microsomes and rat brain S9 fraction were compared. LZA and its hydrolysis product were analyzed by chiral stationary phase HPLC. When rac-LZA was the substrate, the (R)-LZA was hydrolyzed 2.7-fold and 6.8-fold faster than the (S)-LZA by esterases in rat and human liver microsomes, respectively. In contrast, esterases in rat brain S9 fraction were enantioselective toward the (S)-LZA. The specific activities (nmol of LZA hydrolyzed/mg protein/min) of liver microsomes in the hydrolysis of enantiomerically pure (R)-LZA were approximately 210 (rat) and 1330 (human), and in the hydrolysis of enantiomerically pure (S)-LZA were 25 (rat) and 8 (human). The specific activities of rat brain S9 fraction in the hydrolysis of enantiomerically pure (R)-LZA and (S)-LZA were approximately 3 and 6 nmol/mg protein/min, respectively. Results also indicated an enantiomeric interaction in the hydrolysis of rac-LZA; the presence of (R)-LZA stimulated the hydrolysis of (S)-LZA by all esterase preparations, whereas the presence of (S)-LZA stimulated the hydrolysis of (R)-LZA in rat brain S9 fraction and inhibited the hydrolysis of (R)-LZA in rat and human liver microsomes.


Should This Patient Have Weight Loss Surgery?: Grand Rounds Discussion From Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
Obesity is an important public health priority in the United States. One third of U.S. adults are obese and therefore can expect higher rates of diabetes mellitus, other obesity-related comorbidities, and mortality. In 2013, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, the Obesity Society, and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery issued a guideline that recommended weight loss (bariatric) surgery for all patients with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 kg/m2 or higher and for those with a BMI of 35 kg/m2 or greater in the presence of at least 1 obesity-related comorbidity. Among the 3 most commonly performed surgeries, the amount of excess weight reduction ranges from 49% for laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding to 76% for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. In accredited centers, perioperative mortality averages 0.3%. In this Beyond the Guidelines, 2 experts in obesity management, a bariatric surgeon and a general internist, discuss the role of weight loss surgery versus dietary and lifestyle modification, both in general and for a specific patient who is eligible for surgery. Ethnic and age-related variability in the effects of obesity on mortality, as well as potential long-term benefits and risks of weight loss surgery for patient subgroups, are discussed.


Diabetes mellitus and cellular replacement therapy: Expected clinical potential and perspectives.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most prevailing disease with progressive incidence worldwide. Despite contemporary treatment type one DM and type two DM are frequently associated with long-term major microvascular and macrovascular complications. Currently restoration of failing β-cell function, regulation of metabolic processes with stem cell transplantation is discussed as complements to contemporary DM therapy regimens. The present review is considered paradigm of the regenerative care and the possibly effects of cell therapy in DM. Reprogramming stem cells, bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells; lineage-specified progenitor cells are considered for regenerative strategy in DM. Finally, perspective component of stem cell replacement in DM is discussed.


Energy-Aware Control of Error Correction Rate for Solar-Powered Wireless Sensor Networks.
In a wireless sensor network (WSN) environment with frequent errors, forward error correction (FEC) is usually employed at the link layer to achieve reliable transmission. In the FEC scheme, the error correction rate varies depending on the length of parity used for the recovery of broken data. The longer the parity length, the higher the possible error correction rate. However, this also means that the energy consumption increases. Meanwhile, in a solar-powered WSN, the energy of each node can be periodically collected, but the amount of collected energy varies drastically depending on the harvesting environment, including factors such as the weather, season and time of day. Therefore, each node must control energy consumption according to the energy harvesting rate. The scheme proposed in this study executes this control by adaptively adjusting the parity length of FEC according to the given energy budget of a node for the next period. This means that the error recovery rate can be increased as much as possible without adversely affecting the blackout time. Simulation results show that the proposed scheme improves the amount of data collected from the entire network for each environment compared with previous schemes.


Distribution and attribution of high-risk human papillomavirus genotypes in cervical precancerous lesions in China.
While human papillomavirus vaccine was recently approved by China Food and Drug Administration, mapping of high-risk human papillomavirus distribution and attribution in cervical precancerous lesions in China becomes critical in development of a high-risk human papillomavirus-based cervical cancer screening and prevention strategy. In total, 1016 patients with cervical precancerous lesions diagnosed in the National Cancer Center/Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences were analyzed retrospectively, including 111 patients with low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and 905 patients with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. HPV16, 58, 52, 33, and 31 were the most common high-risk human papillomavirus genotypes in order of decreasing frequency among high-risk human papillomavirus-positive high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions; this differed from the high-risk human papillomavirus distribution in low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HPV16, 52, 39, 56, and 58). The distribution of high-risk human papillomavirus genotypes in single-type infections for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HPV16, 58, 33, and 52) was similar to that in multiple-type infections (HPV16, 58, 52, and 33). By contrast, a more diverse distribution spectrum of high-risk human papillomavirus genotypes for low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions was observed between single-type (HPV16, 52, 39, and 56) and multiple-type infection (HPV52, 68, 58, 59, 39 and 56). A previously published method was adopted to calculate the fractional proportion of individual high-risk human papillomavirus genotypes in multiple infections. For this proportional attribution, HPV16 (48.9%), 58 (10.0%), 33 (5.5%), and 52 (5.5%) were the most frequent among all high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, whereas HPV16 (13.2%), 52 (11.6%), 39 (9.5%), and 56 (7.6%) were the most frequent among all low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. Differences in high-risk human papillomavirus distribution and proportional attribution in different cervical pathology statuses (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions) demonstrated the critical role of persistent infection of certain high-risk human papillomavirus such as HPV16, 58, 33, and 52 in carcinogenesis of cervical cancer. Distinctively high prevalence of HPV58, 33 and 52 in Chinese cervical intraepithelial neoplasia population, especially in high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions, should be taken into consideration in cervical cancer screening strategy and vaccine development.


Host-Microbiome Interactions: Tryptophan Metabolism and Aromatic Hydrocarbon Receptors after Traumatic Brain Injury.
Traumatic brain injury refers to the damage caused to intracranial tissues by an external force acting on the head, leading to both immediate and prolonged harmful effects. Neuroinflammatory responses play a critical role in exacerbating the primary injury during the acute and chronic phases of TBI. Research has demonstrated that numerous neuroinflammatory responses are mediated through the "microbiota-gut-brain axis," which signifies the functional connection between the gut microbiota and the brain. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) plays a vital role in facilitating communication between the host and microbiota through recognizing specific ligands produced directly or indirectly by the microbiota. Tryptophan (trp), an indispensable amino acid in animals and humans, represents one of the key endogenous ligands for AhR. The metabolites of trp have significant effects on the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS) through activating AHR signalling, thereby establishing bidirectional communication between the gut microbiota and the brain. These interactions are mediated through immune, metabolic, and neural signalling mechanisms. In this review, we emphasize the co-metabolism of tryptophan in the gut microbiota and the signalling pathway mediated by AHR following TBI. Furthermore, we discuss the impact of these mechanisms on the underlying processes involved in traumatic brain injury, while also addressing potential future targets for intervention.


Desmopressin: a nontransfusional form of treatment for congenital and acquired bleeding disorders.
Desmopressin (1-deamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin, abbreviated DDAVP) is a synthetic analogue of the antidiuretic hormone L-arginine vasopressin. Because it can raise circulating levels of factor VIII coagulant activity (FVIII) and von Willebrand factor and shorten the prolonged bleeding time, DDAVP is established as a nontransfusional form of treatment for mild and moderate hemophilia and von Willebrand disease. Recently, DDAVP has also been purported to be useful for shortening the prolonged skin bleeding times that occur with uremia, cirrhosis, and platelet dysfunctions of various etiologies. Finally, there is evidence from controlled clinical trials that DDAVP can reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements for hemostatically normal individuals undergoing spinal fusion surgery and for patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. The purpose of this report is to review the therapeutic applications of DDAVP in congenital and acquired bleeding disorders and to discuss areas in which further basic and clinical research is needed.


Trends in mental health related contacts among mothers of Aboriginal children in Western Australia (1990-2013): a linked data population-based cohort study of over 40 000 children.
This study examines the scale of maternal mental health related contacts among Australian Aboriginal children over time, and associations with socio-economic characteristics, geographical remoteness and maternal age. A retrospective cohort study of the prevalence of maternal mental health related contacts among Aboriginal children born in Western Australia between 1990 and 2013. Population of Western Australia with de-identified linked administrative data from the Western Australian Department of Health. All Aboriginal children born in Western Australia between 1990 and 2013 and their mothers. Prevalence of maternal mental health related contacts among Aboriginal children born between 1990 and 2013. Mental health related contacts were identified using mental health related inpatient hospitalisations and outpatient contacts. Almost 30% of cohort children were born to a mother with at least one mental health contact in the 5 years prior to birth, with 15% reported in the year prior to birth and the year post birth. There was a distinct increase in the prevalence of maternal mental health contacts between 1990 and 2013 (4-5% per year, with a peak in 2007). Maternal mental health contacts were associated with living in more disadvantaged areas and major cities, and having a mother aged over 20 years at birth. The study affirms that mental health issues place a considerable burden on Aboriginal Australia, and suggests that many of the mental health issues that women develop earlier in life are chronic at the time of conception, during pregnancy and at birth. Early intervention and support for women in the earliest stages of family planning are required to alleviate the burden of mental health problems at birth and after birth. There is a clear need for policies on the development of a holistic healthcare model, with a multisector approach, offering culturally appropriate services for Aboriginal people.


Community-onset Gram-negative Surveillance Program annual report, 2012.
The Australian Group on Antimicrobial Resistance performs regular period-prevalence studies to monitor changes in antimicrobial resistance in selected enteric Gram-negative pathogens. The 2012 survey focussed on community-onset infections, examining isolates from urinary tract infections from patients presenting to outpatient clinics, emergency departments or to community practitioners. In 2012, 2,025 Escherichia coli, 538 Klebsiella species and 239 Enterobacter species were tested using a commercial automated method (Vitek 2, BioMérieux) and results were analysed using Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute breakpoints from January 2012. Of the key resistances, non-susceptibility to the third-generation cephalosporin, ceftriaxone, was found in 4.2% of E. coli and 4.6%-6.9% of Klebsiella spp. Non-susceptibility rates to ciprofloxacin were 6.9% for E. coli, 0.0%-3.5% for Klebsiella spp. and 0.8%-1.9% in Enterobacter spp, and resistance rates to piperacillin-tazobactam were 1.7%, 0.7%-9.2%, and 8.8%-11.4% for the same 3 groups respectively. Only 1 Enterobacter cloacae was shown to harbour a carbapenemase (IMP-4).


Third metal stent for revision of malignant hilar biliary strictures.
Background and study aim: Endoscopic stent-in-stent (SIS) placement of multiple metal stents is technically demanding. In the present study, we explored the technical feasibility and efficacy of endoscopic deployment of a third metal stent to create a triple SIS placement in patients with a bilateral SIS configuration for inoperable high grade malignant hilar biliary stricture (HBS) that had failed clinically. Methods: Eighteen patients with histologically proven inoperable HBS underwent deployment of an additional third metal stent as a revisionary method after early clinical failure following technically successful bilateral SIS placement using cross-wired metal stents. The main outcome measures were the technical and clinical success rates, and adverse events. Results: The overall technical and clinical success rates were 88.9 % (16/18) and 87.5 % (14/16), respectively. The early and late complications were cholangitis (n = 2) and cholecystitis (n = 1). Stent occlusion developed in 35.7 % (5/14) of patients in whom a third metal stent for revision of a bilateral SIS configuration was clinically successful. The median (range) times for stent patency and patient survival were 176 days (49 - 372) and 216 days (52 - 384), respectively. Conclusions: Endoscopic deployment of an additional third metal stent into a bilateral SIS configuration was technically feasible and effective in patients with inoperable high grade malignant HBS in whom bilateral SIS placement had failed clinically.


Calcified cephalohematoma: classification, indications for surgery and techniques.
While calcified cephalohematoma is eminently correctable, a clear description of indications for surgery and surgical techniques are currently lacking in the literature. In this paper we propose a simple classification and an algorithm for the management of cephalohematomas. Three patients were treated for large calcified parietal cephalohematomas. Craniectomy and cranioplasty were performed with excellent outcome. Cranioplasty was performed with the cap radial craniectomy technique in two patients and the flip-over bull's-eye technique in one patient. The literature was reviewed on this entity and an algorithm based on the timing of presentation, extent of calcification and type of calcified cephalohematoma is proposed. Aspiration and compressive dressings can be used for early, incompletely calcified cephalohematomas. Calcified cephalohematoma causing significant distortion of the calvarium requires surgical correction and is classified as Types 1 or 2 depending on the contour of the inner lamella. Type 1, with a normal contoured inner lamella, can be corrected by ostectomy of the outer lamella. Type 2 calcified cephalohematoma has a depressed inner lamella. Elevation of the inner lamella is necessary and the cap radial craniectomy technique can be used. We describe a novel technique, the flip-over bull's-eye techniques as an alternative technique for Type 2 lesions in selected patients. In conclusion, calcified cephalohematomas can safely be treated surgically with excellent outcome. It is hoped that this algorithm will serve as a useful and logical guide in decision making for the management of this condition.


Understanding autism: how family therapists can support parents of children with autism spectrum disorders.
The number of children diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder has increased dramatically in the last 20 years. Parents of children with autism experience a variety of chronic and acute stressors that can erode marital satisfaction and family functioning. Family therapists are well-suited to help parents stay connected to each other as they create a "new normal." However, family therapists need updated information about autism, and they need to understand how family therapy can help parents of children with autism. Because having a child with autism affects multiple domains of family life, this paper explores how family therapists can utilize an integrative approach with parents, enabling them to flexibly work with the domains of action, meaning, and emotion.


First morphomolecular identification of Penicillium griseofulvum and Penicillium aurantiogriseum toxicogenic isolates associated with blue mold on apple.
Postharvest blue mold decay caused by Penicillium spp. is the most important disease of fresh apple fruit in the world, which extend from the field to the store. Two new Penicillium spp. responsible for apple fruit decay were recovered. The morphological and molecular features of Penicillium griseofulvum and Penicillium aurantiogriseum isolated from apple fruits were characterized morphologically and molecularly. Pathogenicity test exhibited that both P. griseofulvum and P. aurantiogriseum were responsible for blue mold decay in storage apple fruits. Lesion diameter indicated that P. aurantiogriseum was more aggressive than P. griseofulvum. All tested isolates were able to synthesize citrinin in addition to patulin. Not all of the isolates belonging to the same species showed the same profile of secondary metabolites. Microsatellite-primed polymerase chain reaction was able to differentiate these isolates at the species level and divided the analyzed isolates into two genetically different groups. Little intraspecific variability was evident. Microsatellite-primed polymerase chain reaction analysis proved to be an objective, rapid, and reliable tool to identify Penicillium spp. involved in blue mold of apple. This is the first report of occurrence of P. griseofulvum and P. aurantiogriseum on imported apple fruits in Saudi Arabia.


Effects of genetic drift and gene flow on the selective maintenance of genetic variation.
Explanations for the genetic variation ubiquitous in natural populations are often classified by the population-genetic processes they emphasize: natural selection or mutation and genetic drift. Here we investigate models that incorporate all three processes in a spatially structured population, using what we call a construction approach, simulating finite populations under selection that are bombarded with a steady stream of novel mutations. As expected, the amount of genetic variation compared to previous models that ignored the stochastic effects of drift was reduced, especially for smaller populations and when spatial structure was most profound. By contrast, however, for higher levels of gene flow and larger population sizes, the amount of genetic variation found after many generations was greater than that in simulations without drift. This increased amount of genetic variation is due to the introduction of slightly deleterious alleles by genetic drift and this process is more efficient when migration load is higher. The incorporation of genetic drift also selects for fitness sets that exhibit allele-frequency equilibria with larger domains of attraction: they are "more stable." Moreover, the finiteness of populations strongly influences levels of local adaptation, selection strength, and the proportion of allele-frequency vectors that can be distinguished from the neutral expectation.


Starch-based noodles: Current technologies, properties, and challenges.
Starch noodles are gaining interest due to the massive popularity of gluten-free foods. Modified starch is generally used for noodle production due to the functional limitations of native starches. Raw materials, methods, key processing steps, additives, cooking, and textural properties determine the quality of starch noodles. The introduction of traditional, novel, and natural chemical additives used in starch noodles and their potential effects also impacts noodle quality. This review summarizes the current knowledge of the native and modified starch as raw materials and key processing steps for the production of starch noodles. Further, this article aimed to comprehensively collate some of the vital information published on the thermal, pasting, cooking, and textural properties of starch noodles. Technological, nutritional, and sensory challenges during the development of starch noodles are well discussed. Due to the increasing demands of consumers for safe food items with a long shelf life, the development of starch noodles and other convenience food products has increased. Also, the incorporation of modified starches overcomes the shortcomings of native starches, such as lack of viscosity and thickening power, retrogradation characteristics, or hydrophobicity. Starch can improve the stability of the dough structure but reduces the strength and resistance to deformation of the dough. Some technological, sensory, and nutritional challenges also impact the production process.


[Hutchinson-Horton giant cell arteritis and rhizomelic polymyalgia. III. Current pathogenetic and nosographic aspects].
There is much evidence to suggest that temporal arteritis and rhizomelic polymyalgia are both immunological diseases. The classic results of experimental pathology are discussed, together with the relations between rhizomelic polymyalgia and both virus hepatitis B and the HLA system. From the clinical standpoint, it is now agreed that differences in individual response may lead to either a synovial or an arteritic response in both forms. Their association in what Hamrin has called "polymyalgia arteritica" is also common.


Citizen Science and the Urban Ecology of Birds and Butterflies - A Systematic Review.
Citizen science has gained widespread currency as a tool for ecological research over the past decade. However, in the discipline of urban ecology, the existing contributions and future potential of citizen science engagement, specifically in terms of knowledge gain, have not yet been comprehensively explored. Here, we present a systematic review of published work on the urban ecology of birds and butterflies in relation to their use of citizen science data between 2005 and 2014. We compared the number of studies that used citizen science data to the number of studies that could potentially have employed data derived from citizen science. The take-up rates of citizen science data were 21% and 26% for birds and butterflies respectively. Most studies that employed citizen science used volunteer-derived data as primary data, and adopted Collegial, Collaborative and Contributional engagement modes to the exclusion of Contractual and Co-created arrangements. There was no evidence that citizen science studies investigated a different organismal scale (community vs. species) compared to the urban ecology literature. For both taxa, citizen science contributions were lower than expected compared to their representation in the urban ecology literature for studies on species-environment relationships at landscape and micro-environment scales, as well as behavioural ecology in general. Other research topics that could benefit from further citizen science involvement include breeding studies and guild analyses for birds, and multi-taxa studies for butterflies. Promising models of citizen science engagement for urban ecology are highlighted in relation to their thematic foci and methodological detail, and a number of research questions that could be productively addressed using citizen science are identified. The dynamics of contemporary engagement between citizen science and urban ecology described by this review could inform the design and refinement of urban ecology-citizen science programmes in order to optimise their scientific contributions.


Scavenging of Active Oxygen Species by Glycated Proteins.
Scavenging of active oxygen species by glycated proteins was investigated. Glycated proteins were prepared from bovine serum albumin (BSA), insulin, and lysozyme incubated with glucose. Glycated BSA at concentration of 0.5% scavenged 34% of hydroxyl radicals by ESR experiments using DMPO as a spin-trapping reagent. The ability to scavenge hydroxyl radicals by glycated BSA was higher than that by BSA. Hydrogen peroxides also were largely scavenged with an increase in the concentration of glycated proteins. However, the ability to scavenge superoxides by glycated BSA was lower than that by BSA because glycated proteins produced superoxides. Experiments using model compounds such as Amadori compound and caproyl pyrraline suggested that the scavenging ability of glycated proteins against hydroxyl radicals depends on Maillard reaction products in the advanced stage, while the ability against hydrogen peroxides is dependent upon Maillard reaction products in the early stage and brown pigments.


Improving the quality of nutrition in pediatric trauma.
Purpose Nutrition plays a key role in the recovery of pediatric trauma patients. A catabolic state in trauma patients may hinder recovery and inadequate nutrition may increase morbidity, mortality and length of hospital stay. The purpose of this paper is to review the current nutrition support practices for pediatric trauma patients at McMaster Children's Hospital (MCH), describe patient demographics and identify areas to improve the quality of patient care. Design/methodology/approach A retrospective chart review was conducted on pediatric trauma patients (age<18 years) identified through the trauma registry of MCH. Pediatric trauma patients admitted from January 2010 to March 2014 with an Injury Severity Score (ISS)=12 and a hospitalization of =24 hours were included. Findings In total, 130 patients were included in this study, 61.1 percent male, median age ten years (range: 0-17 years) and median ISS of 17 (range: 12-50). Blunt trauma accounted for 97.7 percent of patients admitted and 73.3 percent had trauma team activation. In total, 93 patients (71.5 percent) had ICU stays. The median time to feed was 29 hours (interquartile range: 12.5-43 hours) from the time of admission. An increased hospital length of stay was associated with longer time to initiation of nutrition support, a higher ISS and greater number of surgeries ( p<0.05). Originality/value Local nutritional support practices for pediatric trauma patients correspond with recommended principles of early feeding and preferential enteral nutrition. Harmonization of paper-based and electronic data collection is recommended to ensure that prescribed nutritional support is being delivered and nutritional needs of pediatric trauma patients are being met.


Role of folinic acid in methotrexate-based prophylaxis of graft-versus-host disease following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.
Methotrexate (MTX) is one of the main therapeutic agents currently used for the prophylaxis of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD) following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. However, it is associated with significant toxicity and considerable side effects in many patients, which lead to either early withdrawal or dose reductions that may expose patients to the risk of GvHD and graft failure. Folinic acid (FA) can bypass the inhibitory effects of MTX on folate availability and control MTX toxicity. However, concerns that FA might inhibit the anti-GvHD effect of MTX and limited reports on its clinical usefulness have led to reluctance in its inclusion in standard GvHD prophylaxis regimens. Additionally, universal dosing and timing guidelines are lacking. I discuss the available literature and evaluate the evidence for the effect of FA on MTX toxicity and its safety regarding GvHD development and graft rejection in both adult and pediatric patients. Although FA administration appears to be safe, its efficacy for routine use in all types of transplants in adult patients is unproven and further research is required to confirm its MTX toxicity-lowering effect, identify the individual parameters that influence its usefulness in clinical practice, and evaluate its potential when developing a personalized prophylaxis regimen.


Acquired epidermodysplasia verruciformis: a comprehensive review and a proposal for treatment.
Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is a rare genodermatosis characterized by immunologic abnormalities, disseminated human papilloma virus infection, and early development of skin cancers. Acquired forms have been rarely reported and usually occur with immunosuppression. The therapeutic management of the acquired forms is not standardized, and several therapies have been tried, with variable outcomes. To provide updated clinical and experimental information on the treatment of acquired EV. A Medline literature search was performed for relevant Medical Subject Heading terms, reviewing publications on strategies for management of acquired EV. We also report a case successfully treated using a combination of photodynamic therapy and oral retinoids. Data from the literature show that a standardized approach to this condition is lacking; the combination treatment chosen in our case may be proposed because it led to an excellent clinical outcome and a long-lasting remission.


Identify the influences of systemic lupus erythematosus on acquired ADAMTS13-deficient thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura using comprehensive bioinformatics analysis.
The association between acquired ADAMTS13-deficient thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (aTTP) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been studied; however, the underlying molecular causes remain poorly understood. This research aimed to employ bioinformatics approaches to elucidate potential molecular mechanisms contributing to the pathogenesis of SLE and aTTP. The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database yielded GSE121239 and GSE36418 to get mutual different expression genes (DEGs). Subsequently, DEGs were subjected to process Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Then, the DEGs were used for protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis and screened for hub genes and drugs by the DGIDB drug database. A total of 87 DEGs between the SLE and TTP datasets were identified. In the GO and KEGG analyses, DEGs were mainly enriched in the "regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II" and "signaling pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells." After a PPI analysis, three hub genes (BMPR2, SMAD5, and ATF2) were identified. Finally, two drugs targeted to ATF2 were predicted by the DGIDB drug database. Three core genes were linked to the molecular pathogenesis of SLE and aTTP, and two drugs may be viable treatments for both diseases.


Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vulnerability to Addiction: Reviewing Preclinical and Clinical Evidence.
Omega-3 (N3) fatty acids are dietary nutrients that are essential for human health. Arguably, one of their most critical contributions to health is their involvement in the structure and function of the nervous system. N3 fatty acids accumulate in neuronal membranes through young adulthood, becoming particularly enriched in a brain region known to be the locus of cognitive control of behavior-the prefrontal cortex (PFC). The PFC undergoes a surge in development during adolescence, coinciding with a life stage when dietary quality and intake of N3 fatty acids tend to be suboptimal. Such low intake may impact neurodevelopment and normative development of cognitive functions suggested to be protective for the risk of subsequent substance and alcohol use disorders (UD). While multiple genetic and environmental factors contribute to risk for and resilience to substance and alcohol use disorders, mounting evidence suggests that dietary patterns early in life may also modulate cognitive and behavioral factors thought to elevate UD risk (e.g., impulsivity and reward sensitivity). This review aims to summarize the literature on dietary N3 fatty acids during childhood and adolescence and risk of executive/ cognitive or behavioral dysfunction, which may contribute to the risk of subsequent UD. We begin with a review of the effects of N3 fatty acids in the brain at the molecular to cellular levels-providing the biochemical mechanisms ostensibly supporting observed beneficial effects. We continue with a review of cognitive, behavioral and neurodevelopmental features thought to predict early substance and alcohol use in humans. This is followed by a review of the preclinical literature, largely demonstrating that dietary manipulation of N3 fatty acids contributes to behavioral changes that impact drug sensitivity. Finally, a review of the available evidence in human literature, suggesting an association between dietary N3 fatty and neurodevelopmental profiles associated with risk of adverse outcomes including UD. We conclude with a brief summary and call to action for additional research to extend the current understanding of the impact of dietary N3 fatty acids and the risk of drug and alcohol UD.


Using Closure Tables to Enable Cross-Querying of Ontologies in Database-Driven Applications.
We demonstrate that closure tables are an effective data structure for developing database-driven applications that query biomedical ontologies and that require cross-querying between multiple ontologies. A closure table stores all available paths within a tree, even those without a direct parent-child relationship; additionally, a node can have multiple ancestors which gives the foundation for supporting linkages between controlled ontologies. We augment the meta-data structure of the ICD9 and ICD10 ontologies included in i2b2, an open source query tool for identifying patient cohorts, to utilize a closure table. We describe our experiences in incorporating existing mappings between ontologies to enable clinical and health researchers to identify patient populations using the ontology that best matches their preference and expertise.


Management of women at increased risk for hereditary breast cancer.
This chapter reviews the management of women at increased risk for hereditary breast cancer. Screening strategies, emphasizing new data regarding magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are discussed. It is recommended that women at risk for hereditary breast cancer consider annual MRI in addition to mammography and clinical breast examinations. Next, currently available data regarding chemoprevention and surgical prophylaxis for women at high risk for hereditary breast cancer are reviewed. Chemoprevention with tamoxifen reduces the risk of breast cancer by approximately 50% in a heterogeneous population of high risk women; however, the benefit in women at risk for hereditary breast cancer is less clear. In contrast, surgical prophylaxis with bilateral mastectomy reduces the risk of breast cancer by at least 90% and bilateral oophorectomy reduces the risk of breast cancer by approximately 50% among high risk women. Next, ways in which BRCA mutation-associated breast cancers differ from sporadic breast cancers are reviewed. Unique management issues pertaining to women with hereditary breast cancer are then discussed with an emphasis on surgical decision making and peri-diagnostic genetic counseling and testing. Finally, the management of women at risk for hereditary breast cancer in whom deleterious mutations are not identified is reviewed.


Characterization of the functional role of E-box elements for the transcriptional activity of rat acetylcholine receptor epsilon-subunit and gamma-subunit gene promoters in primary muscle cell cultures.
The expression of gamma and epsilon subunits of the acetylcholine receptor from mammalian skeletal muscle is regulated independently during myogenic differentiation and innervation. Genomic DNA fragments containing 5'-flanking sequences of the epsilon-subunit and gamma-subunit genes were characterised by a series of 5' deletions fused to the chloramphenicol-acetyltransferase gene and transiently expressed by transfection of primary cultures of rat muscle cells and non-muscle cells. A 6.3-kb epsilon-subunit fragment can be reduced to yield a 270-bp fragment that confers 5-10-times higher expression levels in muscle cells compared to in non-muscle cells. The region composed of nucleotides -185 to -128 increases the transcriptional activity moderately while the 14-bp palindrome containing a single E box at nucleotides -88 to -83 may interact with the promoter but has no enhancer properties in muscle cells. From a 1.1-kb genomic fragment of the gamma-subunit gene, 167 bp were sufficient for muscle-specific expression. Two promoter-proximal E-box elements enhance promoter activity in muscle and mediate transactivation by myogenic factors. Myogenin and myf5 were much more efficient than MRF4 or MyoD1 which exerted only little transactivation. Cotransfection experiments show that increased expression of Id in primary muscle cells inhibits chloramphenicol-acetyltransferase expression mediated by the gamma-subunit gene promoter and support the view that myogenic factors play an important role in the transcriptional regulation of the gamma-subunit gene.


Cleistanthin A causes peripheral vasoconstriction and myocardial depression in isolated tissue preparations.
Cleistanthus collinus is a poisonous shrub commonly used for deliberate self-harm in rural south India. Boiled decoction or a paste made from its leaves is used for suicide. Cleistanthoside A and Cleistanthin A are the major toxins identified from this plant. In this study, we disclose the mechanism of Cleistanthin A toxicity and concentrations of the two toxins in different extracts of Cleistanthus collinus. The effect of Cleistanthin A was studied on isolated goat leg arteries using two different preparations namely transverse cylinder and longitudinal strip. The influence of Cleistanthin A on peripheral vascular resistance and myocardial contractility was evaluated by rat hind limb and isolated rat heart experiments, respectively. For the quantification of toxins, five different extracts of C. collinus leaves were prepared. The extracts were subjected to analytical HPLC to quantify Cleistanthoside A and Cleistanthin A. Cleistanthin A increased vascular tension in transverse cylinder preparation and increased peak, trough and mean aortic pressures in the rat hind limb preparations. In isolated rat heart experiments, there was an increase in diastolic and mean ventricular pressure with a significant decrease in ventricular pulse pressure. These observations suggest that the hypotension in C. collinus poisoning patients may be due to cardiotoxicity and not due to vasodilation as is currently believed. Quantification of different extracts showed that boiled extracts had higher quantities of Cleistanthoside A whereas crushed leaf extracts yielded significantly higher amounts of Cleistanthin A.


Dual disseminated infection with Nocardia farcinica and Mucor in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report.
Infections remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients and require early diagnosis and treatment. However, correct diagnosis and treatment are often delayed by a multitude of factors. We report what we believe to be the first case of a combined disseminated infection with Nocardia and Mucor in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus. A 74-year-old Caucasian woman with systemic lupus erythematosus presented with recurrent pneumonia. Despite empirical treatment with antibiotics, her condition gradually deteriorated. Microbiological sampling by thoracoscopy revealed the presence of Nocardia. Despite the institution of therapy for disseminated nocardiosis, she died of multi-organ failure. A post-mortem investigation confirmed nocardiosis, but showed concomitant disseminated mucormycosis infection as well. Members of the bacterial genus Nocardia and the fungal genus Mucor are ubiquitous in the environment, have the ability to spread to virtually any organ, and are remarkably resistant to appropriate therapy. Both pathogens can mimic other pathologies both on clinical and radiological investigations. Invasive sampling procedures are often needed to prove their presence. Establishing a timely, correct diagnosis and a specific treatment is essential for patient survival.


[Effect of fluoxetine treatment on serotonin and MHPG in 32 patients with major depressive disorder].
Considering the concept that depressive disorders were not only resulting from activity of one neurotransmitter, possible interactions between the noradrenergic system and a selective serotonin uptake inhibitor, fluoxetine, were investigated in order to test the hypothesis of noradrenergic or serotonergic involvement in depression. So the biological parameters (plasma and urinary MHPG, platelet serotonin) were evaluated by HPLC. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlations between the concentrations of MHPG and serotonin in 32 melancholic patients treated by fluoxetine (20 mg/day) during a minimum of three weeks. The clinical examination with evaluation of the antidepressant effect carried out using the HDS/MES rating scale, allowed to divide the patients into three groups: responders to treatment, partial responders and non responders. In the same time, a control group of healthy subjects was investigated. ANOVA applied to platelet serotonin at day 0 showed a tendency toward heterogeneity between the three patient groups and the control group. The concentrations of serotonin in the three patients groups were highly reduced after 21 days of treatment. Concerning plasma and urinary MHPG there was non significant difference among the three patients groups at day 0 and the control groups. After treatment by fluoxetine, the results suggest that the urinary sulfate MHPG is an indicator of the metabolism of brain norepinephrine and seems to be a better turnover indicator than the plasma sulfate MHPG. The selective evaluation of sulfate and glucuronide MHPG could give a better survey of the psychobiological state of the patients than the total MHPG evaluation.


Human exploration of space: why, where, what for?
"Man must rise above Earth to the top of the atmosphere and beyond, for only then will he fully understand the world in which he lives"-Socrates (469-399 BC). The basic driving rationales for human space flight (HSF) are rooted in age-old and persisting dreams. Fascination with the idea of people going into the sky for adventures in other worlds goes back to ancient myths. This paper sheds light onto criticisms of HSF programs, by revisiting their scientific grounds and associated benefits, along with the different types of emerging commercial enterprise. Research from space has lead to a wealth of commercial and societal applications on Earth, building up the case for the so-called "Space Applications Market".


The presence of steroids in larval and mature brook lampreys (Lampetra planeri Bloch).
The presence of steroids was investigated by radioimmunoassay - mass spectrometry in serum and homogenates of gonads and presumed adrenocortical (pro- and opisthonephric) tissue of larval and mature brook lampreys (Lampetra planeri Bloch) of both sexes. Pregnenolone was detected in all tissue samples studied whereas androstenedione could be identified only in presumed adrenocortical tissue from male and female mature animals as well as in testis. Testosterone was present in testis of adult lampreys and in sera of larval and adult animals.


How Different EEG References Influence Sensor Level Functional Connectivity Graphs.
Highlights: Hamming Distance is applied to distinguish the difference of functional connectivity networkThe orientations of sources are testified to influence the scalp Functional Connectivity Graph (FCG) from different references significantlyREST, the reference electrode standardization technique, is proved to have an overall stable and excellent performance in variable situations. The choice of an electroencephalograph (EEG) reference is a practical issue for the study of brain functional connectivity. To study how EEG reference influence functional connectivity estimation (FCE), this study compares the differences of FCE resulting from the different references such as REST (the reference electrode standardization technique), average reference (AR), linked mastoids (LM), and left mastoid references (LR). Simulations involve two parts. One is based on 300 dipolar pairs, which are located on the superficial cortex with a radial source direction. The other part is based on 20 dipolar pairs. In each pair, the dipoles have various orientation combinations. The relative error (RE) and Hamming distance (HD) between functional connectivity matrices of ideal recordings and that of recordings obtained with different references, are metrics to compare the differences of the scalp functional connectivity graph (FCG) derived from those two kinds of recordings. Lower RE and HD values imply more similarity between the two FCGs. Using the ideal recording (IR) as a standard, the results show that AR, LM and LR perform well only in specific conditions, i.e., AR performs stable when there is no upward component in sources' orientation. LR achieves desirable results when the sources' locations are away from left ear. LM achieves an indistinct difference with IR, i.e., when the distribution of source locations is symmetric along the line linking the two ears. However, REST not only achieves excellent performance for superficial and radial dipolar sources, but also achieves a stable and robust performance with variable source locations and orientations. Benefitting from the stable and robust performance of REST vs. other reference methods, REST might best recover the real FCG of EEG. Thus, REST based FCG may be a good candidate to compare the FCG of EEG based on different references from different labs.


[Abdominal wall metastasis following surgical removal of colorectal carcinomas].
Abdominal wall metastases after laparoscopic resection of colorectal cancer have been reported by various authors. It appeared that abdominal wall metastases occur more frequently after laparoscopic than after conventional, open resection of colorectal cancer. However, the frequency of abdominal wall metastases after laparoscopic surgery varies from only 0 to 1.9% in centres with sufficient relevant experience, whereas after conventional resections the frequency is 0.8-3.3%. A randomized clinical study comparing laparoscopic with conventional resection of colon cancer is necessary to assess the optimal surgical approach to colon cancer. Such a trial has been set up.


Labetalol and propranolol in mild hypertensives: comparison of blood pressure and plasma volume effects.
Labetalol administered in a small to moderate dose (first month 400 mg/day, second month average 585 mg/day) was effective in lowering blood pressure (BP) (-21/-18 mmHg, recumbent) in 11 of 13 mild essential hypertensives over an eight-week period, despite a significant (+294 ml) increase in plasma volume. The effect of propranolol (first month 160 mg/day, second month average 234 mg/day) was significantly less on both blood pressure (-9/-9 mmHg) and plasma volume (+98 ml), although the pre-propranolol BP was lower and the final BP achieved on the two medications was comparable (labetalol 147/89 mmHg, propranolol 145/89). Six patients who continued labetalol for periods of up to 14 months had persistent plasma volume expansion. Three of these, taking a higher dose of labetalol, developed resistance to the drug's antihypertensive effect. Addition of a diuretic restored antihypertensive efficacy and led to a fall in plasma volume. No such plasma volume expansion was seen in six patients who were followed on long term propranolol therapy. Some plasma volume expansion with the combined alpha- beta-adrenoceptor blocker labetalol may be appropriate to its vasodilator action. Provided this effect is not excessive, it appears not to lead to resistance to its antihypertensive action. Small to moderate doses of labetalol would, therefore, seem effective without concomitant diuretic. Such sole use of labetalol could help minimise orthostatic symptoms which can be a major side effect of combination therapy.


Successful Treatment of Clostridium difficile Bacteremia with Aortic Mycotic Aneurysm in a Patient with Prior Endovascular Aortic Aneurysm Repair.
The clinical spectrum of Clostridium difficile infection can range from benign gastrointestinal colonization to mild diarrhea and life threatening conditions such as pseudomembranous colitis and toxic megacolon. Extraintestinal manifestations of C. difficile are rare. Here, we report a patient with a history of an endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) presenting with an endovascular leak complicated by C. difficile bacteremia and a mycotic aneurysm. He was successfully treated with an explant of the EVAR, an aorto-left renal bypass, and aorto-bi-iliac bypass graft placement along with a six-week duration of intravenous vancomycin and oral metronidazole.


Human atrial trabeculae: an experimental preparation for studying myocardial response to perioperative manipulations.
Trabeculae taken from discarded human right atrial specimens during cardiac surgery provide a useful preparation for studies in myocardial physiology and pharmacology. Three extrinsic measurements that have a marked effect on contraction of this preparation are temperature, stimulation frequency and calcium ion (Ca2+) concentration. There is a large decline in developed force below 30 degrees C. The optimal stimulation frequency (temperature 34 degrees C, Ca2+ concentration 2.5 mM) is 1 Hz. The Ca2+ level required to give half maximal force development is 2.0 mM. In a series of 46 atrial trabeculae (approximately 1 mm in diameter) from 33 patients, the authors found a mean contraction tension of 1.37 +/- 0.09 g/mm2 (+/- standard error) (temperature 34 degrees C, stimulation frequency 1 Hz, pH 7.4, Ca2+ concentration 2.5 mM) at maximum force. The preparation appears to have great potential for the study of perioperative manipulation on myocardial function.


Interfacial Electron Regulation and Composition Evolution of NiFe/MoC Heteronanowire Arrays for Highly Stable Alkaline Seawater Oxidation.
In alkaline seawater electrolysis, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is greatly suppressed by the occurrence of electrode corrosion due to the formation of hypochlorite. Herein, a catalyst consisting of MoC nanowires modified with NiFe alloy nanoparticles (NiFe/MoC) on nickel foam (NF) is prepared. The optimized catalyst can deliver a large current density of 500 mA cm-2 at a very low overpotential of 366 mV in alkaline seawater, respectively, outperforming commercial IrO2 . Remarkably, an electrolyzer assembled with NiFe/MoC/NF as the anode and NiMoN/NF as the cathode only requires 1.77 V to drive a current density of 500 mA cm-2 for alkaline seawater electrolysis, as well as excellent stability. Theory calculation indicates that the initial activity of NiFe/MoC is attributed to increased electrical conductivity and decreased energy barrier for OER due to the introduction of Fe. We find that the change of the catalyst in the composition occurred after the stability test; however, the reconstructed catalyst has an energy barrier close to that of the pristine one, which is responsible for its excellent long-term stability. Our findings provide an efficient way to construct high-performance OER catalysts for alkaline seawater splitting.


A new approach for evaluating transformations of dissolved organic matter (DOM) via high-resolution mass spectrometry and relating it to bacterial activity.
Streams are important sites of transformation of dissolved organic matter (DOM). The molecular characterization of DOM-quality changes requires sophisticated analytical evaluation techniques. The goal of our study was to link molecular DOM transformation with bacterial activity. We measured the degradation of leaf leachate over a gradient of bacterial production obtained by different rates of percolation of sediments in seven experimental flumes on five sampling dates. We developed a new strategy for evaluating molecular formula data sets obtained by ultra-high resolution Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FTICR MS), in which the time-dependent change of component abundance was fitted by a linear regression model after normalization of mass peak intensities. All components were categorized by calculating the slope (change of percent intensity per day) in each of the seven flumes. These slopes were then related to cumulative bacterial production. The concentration of DOM decreased quickly in all flumes. Bacterial activity was higher in flumes with percolated sediment than in those without percolation, whereas plankton bacterial activity was higher in flumes without percolation or without sediment. There were no differences in molecular-DOM characteristics between flumes, but there were distinct changes over time. Positive slopes, i.e. increasing intensities over time, were found for small molecules (MW < 450 Da) and high O/C ratios, whereas decreasing intensities were observed less often and only for large molecules and low O/C ratios. The positive slopes of produced components showed a positive relationship to bacterial production for small and for oxygen-rich components. The negative slopes of degraded components were negatively related to bacterial production for large and for oxygen-deficient molecules. Overall, the approach provided new insights into the transformation of specific molecular DOM components.


Cruising the information highway: online services and electronic mail for physicians and families.
Commercial online service providers, bulletin board services, and the Internet make up the rapidly expanding "information highway." Physicians and their families can use these services for professional and personal communication, for recreation and commerce, and to obtain reference information and computer software. Commercial providers include America Online, CompuServe, GEnie, and MCIMail. Internet access can be obtained indirectly through America Online or directly through specialized access providers. Today's online services are destined to evolve into a National Information Infrastructure that will change the way we work and play.


Optimal control of biomass growth in a mixed culture.
It is shown that, in a mixed culture, under realistic assumptions, the optimal temperature profile maximizing the final biomass production under the constraint of the final relative proportions of the two populations is constant. This result is illustrated with a simulation experiment on a lactic fermentation model.


Cation-Independent Mannose 6-Phosphate Receptor Deficiency Enhances β-Cell Susceptibility to Palmitate.
Palmitate attenuates insulin secretion and reduces the viability of insulin-producing cells. Previous studies identified the aberrant palmitoylation or mispalmitoylation of proteins as one mechanism by which palmitate causes β-cell damage. In this report, we identify a role for lysosomal protein degradation as a mechanism by which β cells defend themselves against excess palmitate. The cation-independent mannose 6-phosphate receptor (CI-MPR) is responsible for the trafficking of mannose 6-phosphate-tagged proteins to lysosomes via Golgi sorting and from extracellular locations through endocytosis. RINm5F cells, which are highly sensitive to palmitate, lack CI-MPR. The reconstitution of CI-MPR expression attenuates the induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the toxic effects of palmitate on RINm5F cell viability. INS832/13 cells express CI-MPR and are resistant to the palmitate-mediated loss of cell viability. The reduction of CI-MPR expression increases the sensitivity of INS832/13 cells to the toxic effects of palmitate treatment. The inhibition of lysosomal acid hydrolase activity by weak base treatment of islets under glucolipotoxic conditions causes islet degeneration that is prevented by the inhibition of protein palmitoylation. These findings indicate that defects in lysosomal function lead to the enhanced sensitivity of insulin-producing cells to palmitate and support a role for normal lysosomal function in the protection of β cells from excess palmitate.


Exploring the Intestinal Microbiota and Metabolome Profiles Associated With Feed Efficiency in Pacific Abalone (Haliotis discus hannai).
Feed efficiency (FE) is critical to the economic and environmental benefits of aquaculture. Both the intestines and intestinal microbiota play a key role in energy acquisition and influence FE. In the current research, intestinal microbiota, metabolome, and key digestive enzyme activities were compared between abalones with high [Residual feed intake (RFI) = -0.029] and low FE (RFI = 0.022). The FE of group A were significantly higher than these of group B. There were significant differences in intestinal microbiota structures between high- and low-FE groups, while higher microbiota diversity was observed in the high-FE group. Differences in FE were also strongly correlated to variations in intestinal digestive enzyme activity that may be caused by Pseudoalteromonas and Cobetia. In addition, Saprospira, Rhodanobacteraceae, Llumatobacteraceae, and Gaiellales may potentially be utilized as biomarkers to distinguish high- from low-FE abalones. Significantly different microorganisms (uncultured beta proteobacterium, BD1_7_clade, and Lautropia) were found to be highly correlated to significantly different metabolites [DL-methionine sulfoxide Arg-Gln, L-pyroglutamic acid, dopamine, tyramine, phosphatidyl cholines (PC) (16:0/16:0), and indoleacetic acid] in the high- and low-FE groups, and intestinal trypsin activity also significantly differed between the two groups. We propose that interactions occur among intestinal microbiota, intestinal metabolites, and enzyme activity, which improve abalone FE by enhancing amino acid metabolism, immune response, and signal transduction pathways. The present study not only elucidates mechanisms of variations in abalone FE, but it also provides important basic knowledge for improving abalone FE by modulating intestinal microbiota.


Membrane-associated MMP-2 in human cervical cancer.
Matrixmetalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of secreted or membrane-associated proteins capable of digesting extracellular matrix components. The importance of MMPs in tumor development and invasion is well known. Recent studies have strongly indicated the presence of a functional complex consisting of alpha(v)beta3 integrin, membrane type-1 metalloproteinase-2 (MT1-MMP), and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2) on tumor cell surface, which helps the activation of MMP-2. In this article, we report on the association of active MMP-2 with the membrane fraction of human cervical cancer cells. The association of MMP-2 with alpha(v)beta3 integrin and the expression of membrane type MT1-MMP strongly indicate the role of alpha(v)beta3/MT1-MMP/TIMP-2 complex in the activation of MMP-2 in cervical cancer tissue membrane fraction. The membrane-associated activated MMP-2 may have a role in the migration of tumor cells during invasion.


Micronutrient productivity: a comprehensive parameter for biofortification in rice (Oryza sativa L.) grain.
Enhancing the micronutrient content of staple crops such as rice will improve human nutrition and address the problem of hidden hunger globally. Rice grains consumed after polishing lack adequate amounts of micronutrients. The present study aims to reveal the effects of polishing on micronutrient content and to identify superior genotype(s) to improve yield and micronutrient content after polishing. AM65 exhibited the highest zinc content, and AM180 had the highest iron content, even after polishing. There was little or no difference between the genotypes for zinc content in bran, indicating a possible threshold for micronutrient accumulation in the aleurone layer. A comprehensive selection criterion called 'micronutrient productivity' was used to select for both yield and micronutrient parameters. AM65 and ARB6 showed high zinc and iron productivity indices. OsZIP4b and OsZIP6c markers showed an association with iron content on an agarose gel. Sequencing of markers revealed that OsYSL15 and OsZIP6c were associated with grain zinc content and OsZIP3b, OsMTP1a, and OsYSL4b with grain iron content. These markers can be used for selecting superior accessions. AM65 was loaded with micronutrients and manifested a positive correlation with the grain yield, and it is undoubtedly 'super elite'. Bran does not drain the grain but rather acts as gateway for micronutrient transportation to the endosperm. Micronutrient productivity is a comprehensive parameter for the biofortification of grain. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.


Photosensitizing effects of Photofrin II on the site-selected mitochondrial enzymes adenylate kinase and monoamine oxidase.
The response to Photofrin II-induced photosensitization on the activities of mitochondrial monoamine oxidase (MAO) and adenylate kinase (AK) were studied in order to gain further insight into site specific effects. Utilizing intact mitochondria in vitro, both MAO, located on the cytoplasmic side of the outer mitochondrial membrane, and AK, located in the intermembrane space, were inhibited by exposure to Photofrin II plus light; inhibition was drug-dose and light-dose dependent. However, MAO activity was inhibited to a greater extent than AK; at 35 micrograms/ml of Photofrin II and 160 J/cm2, MAO activity was decreased by 80% whereas AK activity was inhibited by 30%. Higher doses of Photofrin II had no further effect on AK activity. Studies of photosensitization of AK in different mitochondrial preparations demonstrated that inhibition of activity was evident only when mitochondrial membranes containing sequestered porphyrins were present in the reaction mixture. Using an in vivo-in vitro protocol and sampling at 2 to 72 h after administration of 25 mg/kg of Photofrin II, photosensitization of MAO (30% inhibition) was seen at 2 h after drug treatment but inhibition of activity was not observed at later times. AK activity was unchanged over the entire time course. Compared to cytochrome c oxidase, located in the inner mitochondrial membrane and which displayed a sustained inhibition of activity, we suggest that inhibition of MAO or AK activities probably does not contribute to the tumor cytotoxicity under the usual conditions used for photodynamic therapy.


The tibial shaft fracture.
Two large series of civilian-incurred (212) and combat-incurred (228) tibial shaft fractures are compared. Closed tibial fractures were treated by closed manipulation and weight bearing ambulation in a long leg plaster cast. Open injuries following wound exploration and debridement were treated similarly with wound closure. Combat-incurred tibial shaft fractures responded similarly to civilian-incurred injuries. Allowing an open fracture to heal with exposed bone at the fracture site resulted in an average time to removal of external immobilization only two weeks greater than for the uncomplicated tibial fracture. Whether weight bearing ambulation was instituted immediately (24-48 hr) or early (3-4 wk) did not shorten the time to removal of external immobilization. The infection rate in 289 open tibial fractures (228 combat-incurred and 61 civilian-incurred) was 3.8%, and all infections occurred in the open penetrating injuries.


Restriction fragment length polymorphisms associated with the factor VIII and factor IX genes in Polynesians.
New Zealand Maoris (72 X chromosomes) have been compared with Pacific Island Polynesians (121 X chromosomes) and Caucasian New Zealanders (51 X chromosomes) as a control group to determine the allelic frequency of six RFLPs associated with the genes for two X linked diseases (haemophilia A and haemophilia B). RFLPs examined were BclI, XbaI, and BglI within the factor VIII gene, the factor VIII extragenic TaqI system, and the factor IX intragenic TaqI and XmnI sites. The information obtained facilitates the design of strategies for both carrier detection and prenatal diagnosis of haemophilia A within these groups. Strong linkage disequilibrium was observed between the factor VIII BclI and XbaI sites in Polynesians. Genetic counselling for Polynesians with haemophilia B continues, however, to rely on phenotypic diagnosis. The RFLP data from the two separate loci on the X chromosome in Polynesians show similarities with Chinese and Japanese populations, reinforcing theories of an early Polynesian ancestry originating in east Asia.


Evaluation of Linkers' Influence on Peptide-Based Piezoelectric Biosensors' Sensitivity to Aldehydes in the Gas Phase.
Recent findings qualified aldehydes as potential biomarkers for disease diagnosis. One of the possibilities is to use electrochemical biosensors in point-of-care (PoC), but these need further development to overcome some limitations. Currently, the primary goal is to enhance their metrological parameters in terms of sensitivity and selectivity. Previous findings indicate that peptide OBPP4 (KLLFDSLTDLKKKMSEC-NH2) is a promising candidate for further development of aldehyde-sensitive biosensors. To increase the affinity of a receptor layer to long-chain aldehydes, a structure stabilization of the peptide active site via the incorporation of different linkers was studied. Indeed, the incorporation of linkers improved sensitivity to and binding of aldehydes in comparison to that of the original peptide-based biosensor. The tendency to adopt disordered structures was diminished owing to the implementation of suitable linkers. Therefore, to improve the metrological characteristics of peptide-based piezoelectric biosensors, linkers were added at the C-terminus of OBPP4 peptide (KLLFDSLTDLKKKMSE-linker-C-NH2). Those linkers consist of proteinogenic amino acids from group one: glycine, L-proline, L-serine, and non proteinogenic amino acids from group two: β-alanine, 4-aminobutyric acid, and 6-aminohexanoic acid. Linkers were evaluated with in silico studies, followed by experimental verification. All studied linkers enhanced the detection of aldehydes in the gas phase. The highest difference in frequency (60 Hz, nonanal) was observed between original peptide-based biosensors and ones based on peptides modified with the GSGSGS linker. It allowed evaluation of the limit of detection for nonanal at the level of 2 ppm, which is nine times lower than that of the original peptide. The highest sensitivity values were also obtained for the GSGSGS linker: 0.3312, 0.4281, and 0.4676 Hz/ppm for pentanal, octanal, and nonanal, respectively. An order of magnitude increase in sensitivity was observed for the six linkers used. Generally, the linker's rigidity and the number of amino acid residues are much more essential for biosensors' metrological characteristics than the amino acid sequence itself. It was found that the longer the linkers, the better the effect on docking efficiency.


Heme oxygenase-1 as a potential therapeutic target for hepatoprotection.
Heme oxygenase (HO), the rate limiting enzyme in the breakdown of heme into carbon monoxide (CO), iron and bilirubin, has recently received overwhelming research attention. To date three mammalian HO isozymes have been identified, and the only inducible form is HO-1 while HO-2 and HO-3 are constitutively expressed. Advances in unveiling signal transduction network indicate that a battery of redox-sensitive transcription factors, such as activator protein-1 (AP-1), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) and nuclear factor E2-related factor-2 (Nrf2), and their upstream kinases including mitogen-activated protein kinases play an important regulatory role in HO-1 gene induction. The products of the HO-catalyzed reaction, particularly CO and biliverdin/bilirubin have been shown to exert protective effects in several organs against oxidative and other noxious stimuli. In this context, it is interesting to note that induction of HO-1 expression contributes to protection against liver damage induced by several chemical compounds such as acetaminophen, carbon tetrachloride and heavy metals, suggesting HO-1 induction as an important cellular endeavor for hepatoprotection. The focus of this review is on the significance of targeted induction of HO-1 as a potential therapeutic strategy to protect against chemically-induced liver injury as well as hepatocarcinogenesis.


Computational methods for the image segmentation of pigmented skin lesions: A review.
Because skin cancer affects millions of people worldwide, computational methods for the segmentation of pigmented skin lesions in images have been developed in order to assist dermatologists in their diagnosis. This paper aims to present a review of the current methods, and outline a comparative analysis with regards to several of the fundamental steps of image processing, such as image acquisition, pre-processing and segmentation. Techniques that have been proposed to achieve these tasks were identified and reviewed. As to the image segmentation task, the techniques were classified according to their principle. The techniques employed in each step are explained, and their strengths and weaknesses are identified. In addition, several of the reviewed techniques are applied to macroscopic and dermoscopy images in order to exemplify their results. The image segmentation of skin lesions has been addressed successfully in many studies; however, there is a demand for new methodologies in order to improve the efficiency.


Bluetongue virus serotype 20: experimental infection of pregnant heifers.
Three groups of 4 cows at 84 to 95 days, 100 to 160 days, and 170 to 180 days pregnant were inoculated both intradermally and subcutaneously with bluetongue virus serotype 20 (BTV20). Clinical observations and the viraemic and serological responses of the cows were followed for 9 to 17 weeks after inoculation. Viraemia developed in 9 of the 12 cows and was first detected 4 to 9 days after inoculation. Viraemia was detected for 4 to 21 days and in some animals only intermittently. The titre of the viraemia was obtained in 4 cows and ranged from detectable only, to 10(1) to 10(2.8) 50% tissue culture infecting doses per ml. Both serum neutralising and precipitating antibodies were detected in 11 of the 12 cows within 2 to 8 weeks after inoculation. No clinical responses were seen and one cow (516) did not develop a viraemia or produce detectable antibodies to the virus. The cows, calves and foetuses were necropsied following either parturition or slaughter between 200 and 270 days of pregnancy. No virus isolations were made from a wide range of tissues from the cows, calves or foetuses and no immunoglobulins or serum neutralising antibodies were detected in the serums of precolostral calves or foetuses at necropsy. No gross or histopathological lesions were seen in the cows, calves or foetuses, and there was no evidence that BTV20 crossed the bovine placenta or infected the foetus.


[SAPHO syndrome].
We report two cases, one 23 and one 27 year old man, with several years background of sternal and sternoclavicular joints pain, respectively. The laboratory tests were normal. Based on the clinical, radiologic and scintigraphic findings, SAPHO syndrome was diagnosed. Bone scintigraphy makes it possible to obtain a whole body scan in a single whole body scan, and can be used for differential diagnosis of other osteoarticular diseases and for evolutive control and therapeutic response.


Is Autoimmune Thrombocytopenia Itself the Primary Disease in the Presence of Second Diseases Data from a Long-Term Observation.
Dependent on the absence or presence of associated diseases, autoimmune thrombocytopenia (ITP) can be classified as primary or secondary form. The manifestation of the associated diseases is not temporally defined and may occur during observation. Thus the question which disease is the primary one remains unanswered. All 386 patients included in this study were treated by a single primary physician between 1996 and 2015 at the Charité Berlin and met current ITP criteria. Medical records and investigations were reviewed to assess diseases associated with ITP. Initially, the vast majority of patients presented with primary ITP (isolated disease). Based on our findings, ITP was found to be associated with other abnormalities in most cases. These abnormalities included: positive direct antiglobulin test in 49 of 386 tested patients (13%), affections of the thyroid gland in 41 of 386 tested patients (11%), infections in 30 (8%), solid malignancies in 20 (5%) and hematological malignancies in 10 patients (3%), as well as many other miscellaneous diseases. Moreover, of 160 patients who did not receive prior intravenous immunoglobulin treatment, 40 (25%) showed antibody deficiency. In conclusion, the incidence of 'true' ITP as a primary disease is less common than has yet been suggested. Additionally, there is evidence that ITP itself predispose affected subjects toward development of other diseases.


An Integrative Review on Standardized Exams as a Predictive Admission Criterion for RN Programs.
Nursing programs reject qualified applicants due to limited clinical placements and faculty. By admitting the strongest candidates, schools of nursing will reduce attrition rates, increase NCLEX-RN pass rates, and speed the entry into practice of well-prepared nurses to help stem the nursing shortage. This integrative review identified the standardized admission exams most predictive of student success. Included were articles published between 2005 and 2016 that focused on admission criteria, RN programs, specific exams (e. g., HESI-A2, TEAS, SAT, CAAP, or ACT), NCLEX-RN performance, or program success. Standardized exams are effective predictors of success in programs of nursing and first-attempt NCLEX-RN. While predictive accuracy differs between exams, findings suggest that the HESI-A2 is currently the best predictor of success. By optimizing the use of standardized exams as admission criteria, nursing programs can reduce attrition rates and improve NCLEX-RN pass rates. This will maximize program capacity and contribute to a greater number of practicing nurses.


Transcriptome Analysis Reveal Candidate Genes and Pathways Responses to Lactate Dehydrogenase Inhibition (Oxamate) in Hyperglycemic Human Renal Proximal Epithelial Tubular Cells.
Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the leading cause of both chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Previous studies showed that oxamate could regulate glycemic homeostasis and impacted mitochondria respiration in a hyperglycemia-dependent manner in the rat proximal tubular cells. To explore the transcriptome gene expression profiling of kidney tissues in human renal proximal epithelial tubular cell line (HK-2), we treated HK-2 cells with high D-glucose (HG) for 7 days before the addition of 40 mM oxamate for a further 24 hours in the presence of HG in this study. Afterwards, we identified 3,884 differentially expressed (DE) genes based on adjusted P-value ≤ 0.05 and investigated gene relationships based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). After qRT-PCR validations, MAP1LC3A, MAP1LC3B (P-value < 0.01) and BECN1 were found to show relatively higher expression levels in the treated groups than the control groups, while PGC1α (P-value < 0.05) showed the lower expressions. Accordingly, enrichment analyses of GO terms and KEGG pathways showed that several pathways [e.g., lysosome pathway (hsa04142) and p53 signaling pathway (hsa04115)] may be involved in the response of HK-2 cells to oxamate. Moreover, via WGCNA, we identified two modules: both the turquoise and blue modules were enriched in pathways associated with lysosome. However, the p53 signaling pathway was only found using all 3,884 DE genes. Furthermore, the key hub genes IGFBP3 (adjusted P-value = 1.34×10-75 and log2(FC) = 2.64) interacted with 6 up-regulated and 12 down-regulated DE genes in the network that were enriched in the p53 signaling pathway. This is the first study reporting co-expression patterns of a gene network after lactate dehydrogenase inhibition in HK-2 cells. Our results may contribute to our understanding of the underlying molecular mechanism of in vitro reprogramming under hyperglycemic stress that orchestrates the survival and functions of HK-2 cells.


[Patient with intractable delirium successfully treated with electroconvulsive therapy].
Delirium is a frequent and serious condition often seen in hospitalized patients, especially the elderly. Treatment of the somatic illness causing the delirium, and antipsychotic medication will usually resolve the condition. Sometimes, however, the condition is refractory towards medical treatment and in this situation electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can be a quick and efficient treatment. In this case report of a 26-year-old man a post-operative intractable delirium persisting for three weeks was efficiently and swiftly relieved by three consecutive ECTs. The patient was discharged without need for further treatment.


Nitrogen Fertilisation Increases Specific Root Respiration in Ectomycorrhizal but Not in Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Plants: A Meta-Analysis.
Plants spend a high proportion of their photosynthetically fixed carbon (C) belowground to support mycorrhizal associations in return for nutrients, but this C expenditure may decrease with increased soil nutrient availability. In this study, we assessed how the effects of nitrogen (N) fertiliser on specific root respiration (SRR) varied among mycorrhizal type (Myco type). We conducted a multi-level meta-analysis across 1,600 observations from 32 publications. SRR increased in ectomycorrhizal (ECM) plants with more than 100 kg N ha-1 applied, did not change in arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) and non-mycorrhizal (NM) plants, but increased in plants with a dual mycorrhizal association in response to N fertilisation. Our results suggest that high N availability (>100 kg N ha-1) could disadvantage the growth of ECM plants because of increased C costs associated with maintaining higher root N concentrations, while the insensitivity in SRR by AM plants to N fertilisation may be because AM fungi are more important for phosphorus (P) uptake.


Periacinar Clefting and p63 Immunostaining in Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia and Prostatic Carcinoma.
The aim of the present study was to correlate the presence and extent of retraction clefting and the expression of p63 in neoplastic glands and glands with prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) in needle core biopsies. We analyzed needle core biopsies from 28 patients with PIN and 41 patients with adenocarcinoma. Neoplastic glands and those with PIN were analyzed on high power field (400x) and classified in three groups according to the extent of clefting. Immunohistochemical staining was performed following Microwave Streptavidin ImmunoPeroxidase (MSIP) protocol on DAKO TechMate Horizon automated immunostainer. Periacinar retraction clefting was significantly more prominent in prostatic carcinoma compared to PIN (p<0.0001) and nonneoplastic glands (p<0.0001). There was no difference between normal glands and PIN regarding clefting (p=0.8064). p63 was positive around the whole circumference in 12 out of 28 cases with PIN, and discontinuously positive in remaining 16 PIN cases suggesting initial disruption of the basal cell layer. p63 immunostaining was also positive in all nonneoplastic glands, and negative in all carcinomas. We conclude that retraction clefting was associated with cancer and lack of basal cells, but not with PIN. The relationship between clefting and p63 immunostaining in prostatic cancer should be further analyzed.


Triple staining of brain tissue for neuronal classification.
The described triple staining (PAP, aldehydefuchsin, and cresyl violet) enables the distinction of different neuronal types with regard to their content of neurotransmitters or neuropeptides and their lipofuscin pigmentation respectively. The use of filters improves the contrast of immunohistochemical and lipofuscin staining, and facilitates the differentiation of neurons under the microscope. An additional important point is the advantage that perikaria can be measured in the usual morphometric manner.


Cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers of neurodegeneration in chronic neurological diseases.
Chronic neurological diseases (CND) like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), dementia or multiple sclerosis (MS) share a chronic progressive course of disease that frequently leads to the common pathological pathway of neurodegeneration, including neuroaxonal damage, apoptosis and gliosis. There is an ongoing search for biomarkers that could support early diagnosis of CND and help to identify responders to interventions in therapeutic treatment trials. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a promising source of biomarkers in CND, since the CSF compartment is in close anatomical contact with the brain interstitial fluid, where biochemical changes related to CND are reflected. We review recent advances in CSF biomarkers research in CND and thereby focus on markers associated with neurodegeneration.


Using Critical Care Simulations to Prepare Nursing Students for Capstone Clinical Experiences.
The purpose of this innovative learning strategy was to decrease students' fear and anxiety within the critical care environment before the initiation of a critical care capstone clinical experience by enhancing their familiarity of the critical care environment through deliberate practice and experiential learning. This will in turn increase student knowledge and competence in the critical care setting.Critical care units are often used during a capstone clinical experience to enhance critical thinking and clinical reasoning. Student preparation for these rotations, however, is varied and often inadequate. The resulting fear and anxiety impair learning and also contribute to an unsafe environment for this at-risk population.Before the capstone experience, students participated in 3 simulation experiences, each addressing a core concept of critical care nursing. Faculty engaged students during the simulations, while modeling the confidence and critical thinking of a critical care nurse.After both the critical care simulation and the capstone rotation, students stated that the simulation allowed them the time in a safe environment to critically think through the steps to care for critical patients before the capstone rotation. The experience provided them with increased confidence necessary to discharge the responsibilities of a critical care nurse-attention to critical thinking and reasoning.Mindfully constructed simulations with clear objectives help to inoculate the student against fears associated with high-risk patients. This decrease in fear and anxiety before a hands-on clinical experience may improve patient safety. More confident students are also better able to engage in both experiential and deliberate learning, resulting in a more enhanced and meaningful clinical experience.


Modified Intraumbilical Versus Infraumbilical Entry Method at Laparoscopy: A Cohort Study.
There is no consensus on the optimal laparoscopic entry method. Whether a transumbilical or periumbilical incision is beneficial for the initial peritoneal access has been debated. These 2 methods have their own advocates, since each has its own benefits and disadvantages. Furthermore, the lack of consensus extends to the type of entry technique [Hasson, Veress needle (VN), direct trocar]. We have conducted a study comparing a modified intraumbilical technique (MIT), a novel method that combines a VN insertion through a modified direct-trocar access, with the standard infraumbilical VN technique. Our aim is to determine which technique is a better route for the initial umbilical trocar. A retrospective cohort study of 406 patients from a prospectively maintained database has been performed. Two cohorts of cases have been analyzed (VN=198; MIT=208). Primary outcomes were intraoperative access-related events, entry failure, and long-term wound complications. Clinical follow-up was performed at 1 and 6 months and yearly thereafter. Subcutaneous emphysema, extraperitoneal insufflation, and difficult entry (>2 VN insertions) occurred more frequently in the VN group (P=0.011, 0.023, and 0.023, respectively). There were 5 (2.52%) failed entries in the VN group and none in the MIT group (P=0.085). Regarding postoperative complications, seroma of the wound occurred more frequently in the VN group (P=0.033). At a mean follow-up of 18.4 months, 13 (3.20%) trocar-site hernias were detected, equally distributed among both groups. MIT eliminates the risk of failed entries and some complications associated with the VN technique without an increase in umbilical wound infection and facilitates a proper closure of the umbilical incision to secure a low trocar-site hernia rate. Halfway between open and closed techniques for laparoscopic entry, MIT is a safe and feasible procedure that embodies the advantages of both methods and may constitute an advantageous alternative to the infraumbilical VN entry approach.


Plasmon-coupled gold nanospheres for two-photon imaging and photoantibacterial activity.
Positively charged Au nanospheres are found to form aggregates on the bacterial surface, resulting in significantly enhanced two-photon photoluminescence (TPPL). The enhanced TPPL is successfully utilized to image bacterial cells in the NIR region. In addition, these Au nanospheres effectively eradicate the bacterial cells by laser pulses in the same NIR region due to the photothermal effect.


[Cardiac Doppler ultrasonography in the diagnosis and surveillance of chronic aortic insufficiency].
Chronic aortic insufficiency is, since a few years, a topic of renewed interest because of the development of non-invasive monitoring methods: sonocardiography, cardiac Doppler. The problem raised is that of deciding the most opportune time for surgery in asymptomatic chronic AI, the course of which may quietly evolve towards irreversible myocardial lesions. The severity of AI may be determined by numerous sonocardiographic and Doppler criteria. In sonocardiography, three types of parameters have especially been studied: ventricular expansion (telediastolic, telesystolic diameter), the systolic function (percentage of diameter decrease), volume/mass ratio (R/h). To be valid, these measurements are a precious guide for patient's monitoring and therapeutic approach. The more recent Doppler criteria must be validated on large series and evaluated according to the context or a pathological association; they all have limitations and cannot be interpreted separately.


Insights on Water Dynamics in the Hygromorphic Phenomenon of Biopolymer Films.
Water-responsive biopolymer thin films with engineered matrix characteristics can accomplish desirable shape changing properties such as self-folding. Self-folding response of chitosan film is experimentally characterized by its total folding time and rate of folding. Here, atomistic simulation is employed to investigate the molecular mechanism responsible for modified self-folding behavior observed in nanoparticle reinforced chitosan films. The nanocomposite system is solvated with water content varying from 10% to 100% of total mass of the system. The free volume available for diffusion of water molecules is affected by the flexibility of glycosidic linkages present in chitosan chains. The increase in mobility of water molecules with increase in water content decides the rate of folding. A separate molecular system is modeled with confined region between nanoparticles densified with chitosan chains and water molecules. The thickness of confined region is determined from the critical distance of influence of nanoparticles on water molecules. The adsorption of water on nanoparticle surface and relaxation of chitosan chains are responsible for increased total folding time with nanoparticle concentration. This simulation study, complemented with experimental observations provides a useful insight into the designing of actuators and sensors based on the phenomenon of hygromorphism.


"I am not a Robot, I am Asexual": A Qualitative Critique of Allonormative Discourses of Ace and Aro Folks as Robots, Aliens, Monsters.
Despite exploring other queer topics, communication scholars and rhetoricians are lacking in offering academic inquiries involving asexuality. We engaged in a critical thematic analysis of posts and comments posted from asexual and/or aromantic folks on the online communities of Reddit and AVEN, the Asexuality Visibility & Education Network. The analysis focused on three cultural tropes prominently used when describing asexual and aromantic folks, namely robots, aliens, and monsters. Our discussion centers asexual and aromantic voices and invites communication and rhetorical scholars to take steps in combating the allonormativity of our fields by centering the voices and experiences of intersectional aces and/or aros in their own research. We conclude with a call for an asexual and aromantic communication studies.


The Prdm family: expanding roles in stem cells and development.
Members of the Prdm family are characterized by an N-terminal PR domain that is related to the SET methyltransferase domain, and multiple zinc fingers that mediate sequence-specific DNA binding and protein-protein interactions. Prdm factors either act as direct histone methyltransferases or recruit a suite of histone-modifying enzymes to target promoters. In this way, they function in many developmental contexts to drive and maintain cell state transitions and to modify the activity of developmental signalling pathways. Here, we provide an overview of the structure and function of Prdm family members and discuss the roles played by these proteins in stem cells and throughout development.


Diagnostic laparoscopy and laparoscopic ultrasound for staging of patients with malignant proximal bile duct obstruction.
Tumor staging in patients with a malignant obstruction of the proximal bile duct is focused on selecting patients who could benefit from a resection. Diagnostic laparoscopy, which has proved its value in several gastrointestinal malignancies, has been used routinely at our hospital since 1993 in patients with a malignant obstruction of the proximal bile duct, although data in the literature with regard to its additional value are conflicting. Therefore the diagnostic accuracy of diagnostic laparoscopy in patients with malignant proximal bile duct obstruction was evaluated. From January 1993 to May 2000, diagnostic laparoscopy was performed in 110 patients (61 males and 49 females), with a mean age of 60 years (range 30 to 80 years), who had a suspected malignant proximal bile duct tumor and in whom "potential resectability" was demonstrated by means of conventional radiologic staging methods (i.e., ultrasound combined with Doppler imaging, CT, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography). Laparoscopy revealed histologically proved incurable disease in 44 (41%) of the 110 patients (31 with metastases and 13 with extensive tumor ingrowth). Laparoscopic ultrasound imaging, however, revealed histologically proved incurable disease in one patient (1%), thereby preventing exploratory laparotomy in 46 because these patients had already been treated by palliative endoscopic stent placement. The remaining 65 patients were staged as having a resectable tumor and underwent surgical exploration. Thirty patients had an unresectable tumor (distant metastases in five; tumor ingrowth in surrounding tissues in 24) or benign disease (one patient). Sensitivity and negative predictive value of diagnostic laparoscopy for detecting unresectable disease were 60% and 52%, respectively. Diagnostic laparoscopy avoided unnecessary laparotomy in 41% of patients with a malignant proximal bile duct obstruction considered resectable according to conventional imaging studies. The additional value of laparoscopic ultrasound was limited. Therefore diagnostic laparoscopy should be performed routinely in the workup of patients with a potentially resectable proximal bile duct tumor.


Site-specific bone measurements in patients with ankle fracture.
Ankle fracture is one of the most common fractures in adults, particularly postmenopausal women. Few studies have examined the bone mineral density (BMD) and ultrasound properties of bone close to the site of fracture in patients with ankle fracture. The aim of this study was to evaluate these measurements in women with ankle fractures compared with controls. We studied 31 healthy post-menopausal women ages 50-79 years (mean age 63.2+/-3.3 years) from a population-based group and 31 postmenopausal women ages 52-76 years (mean age 61.2+/-2.2 years) with an ankle fracture. Distal tibia and fibula BMD were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry using the Hologic QDR 1000/W densitometer. In addition to total distal and tibia BMD, three subregions were automatically selected: ultradistal, middle and one-quarter regions. Speed of sound (SOS) and broadband ultrasound attenuation (BUA) of the calcaneus were measured using the Lunar Achilles+ (LA+) and CUBA Clinical (CC). In addition to SOS and BUA, LA+ Stiffness Index (SI) was also measured. The nondominant limb was measured in the population group and the contralateral limb in the ankle group. Differences between the groups were determined using t-tests. The ankle fracture group was heavier than the control group by an average of 10 kg. BMD measurements were therefore adjusted for weight. There were no significant differences between the ankle fracture and control groups in lumbar spine BMD, total or regional ankle BMD or calcaneal BUA. However, calcaneal SOS was decreased in the ankle fracture group when measured on the LA+ and CC by 50 m/s (-2.0 SD units, p<0.001) and 19 m/s (-0.5 SD units, p<0.01) respectively. LA+ SI was decreased in the ankle fracture group by 14 units (-1.1 SD units, p<0.001). In conclusion, ankle fracture is not a typical osteoporotic fracture. However, there may be structural changes in the bone (unrelated to bone density) which result in increased fragility and susceptibility to fracture.


Languaje: what makes us humans.
Pediatrician carry out the surveillance of language in preschool children as one of the components of child development (language, fine and gross motor skills, etc.). However, language is more than that. The process of transformation of the magic meaning on the word present in the initial stages of human evolution (Myth period) into a new, symbolic meaning as representative of the object (Logos period) took around 40,000 years. With the mastering of language, man was capable of thinking; from then onwards, these two functions, thought and language, became inextricably linked, the evolved hand in hand. But this achievement had a high price : the alienation of man from nature. Hence, language became a social construction which, far from representing the objects of nature, was capable of assigning attributes and meaning to the objects themselves. Language can be used as a commercial strategy (making the words value and cost indistinguishable). According to Lacan, language is also a part of the subject, we are constructed by language. By promoting language in children we contribute to the promotion of the child as a person, as an individual and as a social being.


Effect of Alkali Metal Atoms Doping on Structural and Nonlinear Optical Properties of the Gold-Germanium Bimetallic Clusters.
A new series of alkali-based complexes, AM@GenAu (AM = Li, Na, and K), have been theoretically designed and investigated by means of the density functional theory calculations. The geometric structures and electronic properties of the species are systematically analyzed. The adsorption of alkali metals maintains the structural framework of the gold-germanium bimetallic clusters, and the alkali metals prefer energetically to be attached on clusters' surfaces or edges. The high chemical stability of Li@Ge12Au is revealed by the spherical aromaticity, the hybridization between the Ge atoms and Au-4d states, and delocalized multi-center bonds, as well as large binding energies. The static first hyperpolarizability (βtot) is related to the cluster size and geometric structure, and the AM@GenAu (AM = Na and K) clusters exhibit the much larger βtot values up to 13050 a.u., which are considerable to establish their strong nonlinear optical (NLO) behaviors. We hope that this study will promote further application of alkali metals-adsorbed germanium-based semiconductor materials, serving for the design of remarkable and tunable NLO materials.