Morphologic, morphometric and contour shape variations of sagittal otoliths of Lepidorhombus spp. in the Aegean Sea.
Otoliths are calcareous anatomical structures in the inner ear of fishes, and they can be used in the discrimination of fish species and stocks due to their species-specific shape. Sagittal otoliths in the Lepidorhombus whiffiagonis and Lepidorhombus boscii, two flatfish species of the same genus distributed in the Aegean Sea, were compared using morphology, morphometry and contour shape analyses. Blind and eyed side otoliths of Lepidorhombus species were evaluated separately due to their morphological features and statistical differences in morphometric measurements (p < 0.05). Four analysis groups were formed: blind side otolith of L. whiffiagonis, eyed side otolith of L. whiffiagonis, blind side otolith of L. boscii and eyed side otolith of L. boscii. Morphometric differences in otolith shape were performed by canonical discriminant analysis, and the first discriminant axis explained 97.4% (Wilks λ = 0.270) of the variance between the groups, and the second axis explained 2.3% (Wilks λ = 0.620). Classification success between Lepidorhombus species based on CDA is 100%, and the overall CDA classification score between groups is 76.5%. The wavelet functions obtained in the contour analysis showed high variability in the anterior, posterior-dorsal, antero-dorsal and ventral regions of the otoliths among these four analysis groups. Consequently, it is thought that this study will contribute to the taxonomic classification of fish with the morphological and morphometric differences in the blind and eyed side otoliths and the analyses made with the high discrimination success obtained in Lepidorhombus species.


Decrease in length of hospitalization before death of cancer patients in the Italian province of Imperia.
Although the overall cure rates for cancer in Italy are comparable to those of other developed countries, these results are the product of very heterogeneous facilities. In order to assess the possible impact of improved acute cancer care services on the last phase of life, a retrospective study was carried out which included 4238 patients registered at the Division of Medical Oncology of Imperia Province from January 1995 to December 2002. In 1998 the Province of Imperia, with a population of 217,000, had only two doctors and five day-hospital beds. During 1999 and 2000, resources increased to include five oncology specialists and 10 day-hospital beds. Compared to 1998, in 2002 the number of new patients registering at the Division of Medical Oncology and the number of day-hospital treatments increased by 76% and 67%, respectively. Since end-of-life care for advanced cancer patients is expensive, the length of hospitalization of cancer patients dying in acute hospital settings was analyzed for the years 1995-2002. Of the 4238 patients registered during the eight-year period, 1433 (33.8%) died before 31 December 2002. Among these 1433 patients, the records relative to hospitalization and death were available for 571 cancer patients, 324 males (56.7%) and 247 females (43.3%) with a median age of 70 years (range, 21-91). The average number of days of hospitalization declined from 14.6 (range, 1-76) in 1998 to 8.2 (range, 1-29) in 2002, a decrease of approximately 44%. The length of hospitalization prior to death has declined considerably for cancer patients in the Imperia Province and the costs of acute hospital facilities for end-of-life care in cancer patients have decreased. In addition, fewer days in hospital before death may have had an important impact on the quality of life of these cancer patients.


B-cell differentiation following autologous, conventional, or T-cell depleted bone marrow transplantation: a recapitulation of normal B-cell ontogeny.
The circulating lymphocytes of 88 consecutive patients following autologous, conventional, or T-cell depleted bone marrow transplantation were serially analyzed for B-cell surface antigen expression and function. In the majority of patients, except for those who developed chronic graft-versus-host disease, the number of circulating CD20+ B cell normalized by the fourth posttransplant month. The earliest detectable B cells normally expressed HLA-DR, CD19, surface immunoglobulin (slg), CD21, Leu-8, and lacked expression of CD10 (CALLA). In addition, the circulating B cells expressed CD1c, CD38, CD5, and CD23 for the first year following transplant, antigens that are normally expressed on a small percentage of circulating B cells in normal adults, but highly expressed on cord blood B cells. Similar to cord blood B cells, patient B cells isolated during the first year following transplant, proliferated normally to Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain I (SAC), and produced IgM, but minimal or no IgG when stimulated with pokeweed mitogen and SAC, unlike normal adult B cells that produce both. The similar phenotype and function of posttransplant and cord blood B cells, and their similar rate of decline in patients and normal children adds further evidence to support the hypothesis that B-cell differentiation posttransplant is recapitulating normal B-cell ontogeny.


Dynamic Characteristic Analysis of a Toothed Electromagnetic Spring Based on the Improved Bouc-Wen Model.
Electromagnetic spring active isolators have attracted extensive attention in recent years. The standard Bouc-Wen model is widely used to describe hysteretic behavior but cannot accurately describe asymmetric behavior. The standard Bouc-Wen model is improved to better describe the dynamic characteristic of a toothed electromagnetic spring. The hysteresis model of toothed electromagnetic spring is established by adding mass, damping, and asymmetric correction terms with direction. Subsequently, the particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to identify the parameters of the established model, and the results are compared with those obtained from the experiment. The results show that the current has a significant impact on the dynamic curve. When the current increases from 0.5 A to 2.0 A, the electromagnetic force sharply increases from 49 N to 534 N. Under different excitations and currents, the residual points predicted by the model proposed in this work fall basically in the horizontal band region of -20-20 N (for an applied current of 1.0 A) and -40-80 N (for an application of 4.5 mm/s). Furthermore, the maximum relative error of the model is 12.75%. The R2 of the model is higher than 0.98 and the highest value is 0.9993, proving the accuracy of the established model.


Heterogeneity of alpha-fetoprotein(AFP) and albumin containing cells in normal and pathological permissive states for AFP production: AFP containing cells induced in adult rats recapitulate the appearance of AFP containing hepatocytes in fetal rats.
The cellular localization of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and albumin (ALB) in permissive states for AFP synthesis has been examined. The cells containing AFP associated with permissive states in the adult are similar in appearance to cells that are present during the development of fetal liver. In fetal liver, AFP is seen in most developing hepatocytes ranging from small 'oval' like cells to larger dividing hepatocytes and in cells organized in glandular structures. Following exposure to some chemical hepatocarcinogens, AFP can also be seen in small 'oval' cells, ductal-like cells, and larger atypical hepatocytes that form glandular-like structures. Following partial hepatectomy or galactosamine-induced live injury, AFP is seen in a few large parenchymal cells usually containing identifiable chromatin Cells which contain AFP almost always contain ALB as well, but for each cell type there are many more ALB containing cells than AFP containing cells. ALB and AFP containing hepatoma cells are more frequently located adjacent to tumor vessels and AFP production by hepatoma 777 in vitro is associated with the growth state of the tumor. The AFP containing cells that are seen during restitutive proliferation most likely arise from deregulation of proliferating adult hepatocytes. The non-hepatoma AFP containing cells that appear early during carcinogenesis may arise in the adult by retrodifferentiation of hepatocytes or by proliferation of stem cells. These morphologically different AFP containing cells may or may not be precursors of the hepatocellular carcinomas which develop later.


Mutation spectrum in BBS genes guided by homozygosity mapping in an Indian cohort.
Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS), a ciliopathy disorder with pleiotropic effect manifests primarily as retinal degeneration along with renal insufficiency, polydactyly and obesity. In this study, we have performed homozygosity mapping using NspI 250K affymetrix gene chip followed by mutation screening of the candidate genes located in the homozygous blocks. These regions are prioritized based on the block length and candidature of the genes in BBS and other ciliopathies. Gene alterations in known BBS (22) and other ciliopathy genes such as ALMS1 (2) were seen in 24 of 30 families (80%). Mutations in BBS3 gene, inclusive of a novel recurrent mutation (p.I91T) accounted for 18% of the identified variations. Disease associated polymorphisms p.S70N (BBS2), rs1545 and rs1547 (BBS6) were also observed. This is the first study in Indian BBS patients and homozygosity mapping has proved to be an effective tool in prioritizing the candidate genes in consanguineous pedigrees. The study reveals a different mutation profile in the ciliopathy genes in Indian population and implication of novel loci/genes in 20% of the study group.


[Elderly abuse].
Elderly abuse is still far too much ignored. A better understanding of this problem allows us to a better answer proposing an appropriate coping as well as a preventing action. This article describe this society phenomenon with is worth looking at by every health professional. Identifying such situation as elderly abuse is a very tricky process, anyway, some risk factors bound to the victims, the authors or environment can lead us to watch situations that can need to be surrounded. Elderly abuse includes physical, psychological, financial, civilian, medical abuse and neglecting. One of the reasons of the taboo around the problem is the victim's silence connected to their fears and feelings and also the circle's attitude. An acute perception of this phenomenon can lead to adequate prevention and coping. In these conditions, the " Centre d'Aide aux Personnes Agées Maltraitées" (CAPAM) can develop its listening attitude as well as pluridisciplinar team actions.


[Organizational change by program and its impact].
The Pierre Janet Hospital Centre, a 110-bed short-term psychiatric treatment facility, reorganized its services based on a program-specific clientele. Operational functions are segmented according to client age. There are programs for children, teens, adults and seniors. Each program is responsible for developing, setting up and rendering a full spectrum of specialized services covering the following: reception, evaluation and orientation, treatment, re-adaptation, support to the community, research and development. Programs are managed by a team consisting of a clinical director, a psychiatrist and an administrative co-ordinator. The team reports directly to the director-general. The new structure has had a significant impact on the nursing profession: broadening of the scope of tasks, increase in professional freedom, professional recognition by the nursing community and a modified and enriched perception of the profession's practice.


Promoting physical activity in women: evaluation of a 2-year community-based intervention in Sydney, Australia.
Women are less likely than men to reach recommended levels of physical activity and have unequal access to active leisure time. Studies in Australia have consistently found that women are only half as likely as men to be adequately active. A community-based multi-strategic health promotion intervention, 'Concord, A Great Place to be Active', was implemented from 1997 to 1999. It aimed to increase the physical activity levels of women aged 20-50 years living in the Concord Local Government Area (LGA), an inner-western region of Sydney, Australia. A key feature of this intervention was a partnership between Concord Council (the local government) and the Central Sydney Health Promotion Unit (CSHPU). The project was evaluated using qualitative and quantitative methods. Key informant interviews and focus groups were conducted to inform the development of the intervention and to assess the impact of the project on Concord Council. Pre- and post-intervention telephone surveys of the target group were also conducted. Following the intervention, there was a statistically significant (6.4%) reduction in the proportion of sedentary women. Further, there were a number of positive enhancements in the Council's capacity to promote physical activity in the community. These findings demonstrate that a community-based intervention targeting a specific population can achieve positive changes in physical activity and that a local government has the capacity to be involved in and sustain physical activity interventions.


Exploring machine learning algorithms for accurate water level forecasting in Muda river, Malaysia.
Accurate water level prediction for both lake and river is essential for flood warning and freshwater resource management. In this study, three machine learning algorithms: multi-layer perceptron neural network (MLP-NN), long short-term memory neural network (LSTM) and extreme gradient boosting XGBoost were applied to develop water level forecasting models in Muda River, Malaysia. The models were developed using limited amount of daily water level and meteorological data from 2016 to 2018. Different input scenarios were tested to investigate the performance of the models. The results of the evaluation showed that the MLP model outperformed both the LSTM and the XGBoost models in predicting water levels, with an overall accuracy score of 0.871 compared to 0.865 for LSTM and 0.831 for XGBoost. No noticeable improvement has been achieved after incorporating meteorological data into the models. Even though the lowest reported performance was reported by the XGBoost, it is the faster of the three algorithms due to its advanced parallel processing capabilities and distributed computing architecture. In terms of different time horizons, the LSTM model was found to be more accurate than the MLP and XGBoost model when predicting 7 days ahead, demonstrating its superiority in capturing long-term dependencies. Therefore, it can be concluded that each ML model has its own merits and weaknesses, and the performance of different ML models differs on each case because these models depends largely on the quantity and quality of data available for the model training.


Methyl-CCNU versus methyl-CCNU and 5-fluorouracil in carcinoma of the large bowel.
5-Flourouracil (5-FU) and methyl-CCNU have demonstrated separate sensitivities in carcinoma of the large bowel. This study was an attempt to see if methyl-CCNU versus methyl-CCNU plus 5-FU would demonstrate different responses in advanced colorectal carcinoma. Forty-nine patients have been evaluated, 14 receiving methyl-CCNU and 35 receiving 5-FU plus methyl-CCNU. One partial response has been seen with methyl-CCNU alone in a patient with liver metastasis. Thirteen partial responses have been noted in patients treated with the two-drug combination. There was a significant difference in the median survival of the responders versus the nonresponders for the two-drug group. Side effects were expected: nausea and vomiting, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Plasma carcinoembryonic antigen and urine arylsulfatase were measured in all patients and correlated well with response.


The tools to understand: community as co-researcher on culture-specific protective factors for Alaska Natives.
A collaborative research process engaging Alaska Native communities in the study of protective factors in Alaska Native sobriety and the design of a preventative intervention using its findings is described. Study 1 was discovery oriented qualitative research whose objectives were identification of protective factors and development of a heuristic model. Study 2 involved quantitative survey methods to develop and test ameasure of protective factors identified by the qualitative study. Empirical data from these studies is presented, and the role of Alaska Native co-researchers who did not possess specialist research training is described in the design and implementation of the study, interpretation of findings, and design of the intervention model and tools. Benefits that emerged from co-researcher involvement in this process, to the community and to the co-researchers themselves, are described.


Fluorescence, circular dichroism, light scattering, and microscopic characterization of vesicles of sodium salts of three N-acyl peptides.
Aggregation behavior of three N-acyl peptide surfactants, sodium N-(4-n-dodecyloxybenzoyl)-L-alyl-L-valinate (SDBAV), L-valyl-L-alaninate (SDBVA), and L-valyl-L-valinate (SDBVV), were investigated. The amphiphiles have very low critical aggregation concentration (cac). Fluorescence anisotropy studies using 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) as a fluorescent probe indicated formation of bilayer aggregates in dilute solution. Transmission electron micrographs showed the existence of large vesicles in dilute solution. Circular dichroism spectra suggested formation of helical aggregates. The vesicle formation was found to be more favored at neutral pH. Dynamic light scattering was used to measure hydrodynamic radius of the vesicles. The microviscosity of the vesicles formed by the amphiphiles was determined by use of fluorescence anisotropy and the lifetime of the DPH probe. The vesicles formed by the surfactants are stable at temperatures above body temperature and for a long period of time. Fluorescence probe studies, however, indicated transformation of vesicles to rod-like micelles at surfactant concentrations much higher than the cac value. Addition of sodium chloride also transformed the vesicles to rod-like micelles.


The Global Prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and its Association With Cancers: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the common causes of chronic liver disease globally. Obesity, metabolic diseases, and exposure to some environmental agents contribute to NAFLD. NAFLD is commonly considered a precursor for some types of cancers. Since the leading causes of death in people with NAFLD are cardiovascular disease and extrahepatic cancers, it is important to understand the mechanisms of the progression of NAFLD to control its progression and identify its association with extrahepatic cancers. Thus, this review aims to estimate the global prevalence of NAFLD in association with the risk of extrahepatic cancers. We aimed to determine the prevalence of various cancers in NAFLD patients and the association between NAFLD and cancer. We searched PubMed, ProQuest, Scopus, and Web of Science from database inception to March 2022 to identify eligible studies reporting the prevalence of NAFLD and the risk of incident cancers among adult individuals (aged ≥18 years). Data from selected studies were extracted, and meta-analysis was performed using random effects models to obtain the pooled prevalence with the 95% CI. The quality of the evidence was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. We identified 11 studies that met our inclusion criteria, involving 222,523 adults and 3 types of cancer: hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), breast cancer, and other types of extrahepatic cancer. The overall pooled prevalence of NAFLD and cancer was 26% (95% CI 16%-35%), while 25% of people had NAFLD and HCC (95% CI 7%-42%). NAFLD and breast cancer had the highest prevalence out of the 3 forms of cancer at 30% (95% CI 14%-45%), while the pooled prevalence for NAFLD and other cancers was 21% (95% CI 12%-31%). The review suggests that people with NAFLD may be at an increased risk of cancer that might not affect not only the liver but also other organs, such as the breast and bile duct. The findings serve as important evidence for policymakers to evaluate and recommend measures to reduce the prevalence of NAFLD through lifestyle and environmental preventive approaches. PROSPERO CRD42022321946; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=321946.


Health-related quality of life in patients with COVID-19; international development of a patient-reported outcome measure.
We aimed to create a questionnaire to assess the health-related quality of life including functioning, symptoms, and general health status of adult patients with current or previous COVID-19. Here, we report on Phase I and II of the development. Internationally recognized methodology for questionnaire development was followed. In Phase I, a comprehensive literature review was performed to identify relevant COVID-19 issues. Decisions for inclusion, exclusion, and data extraction were completed independently in teams of two and then compared. The resulting issues were discussed with health care professionals (HCPs) and current and former COVID-19 patients. The input of HCPs and patients was carefully considered, and the list of issues updated. In Phase II, this updated list was operationalized into items/questions. The literature review yielded 3342 publications, 339 of which were selected for full-text review, and 75 issues were identified. Discussions with 44 HCPs from seven countries and 52 patients from six countries showed that psychological symptoms, worries, and reduced functioning lasted the longest for patients, and there were considerable discrepancies between HCPs and patients concerning the importance of some of the symptoms. The final list included 73 issues, which were operationalized into an 80-item questionnaire. The resulting COVID-19 questionnaire covers health-related quality of life issues relevant to COVID-19 patients and is available in several languages. The next steps include testing of the applicability and patients' acceptability of the questionnaire (Phase IIIA) and preliminary psychometric testing (Phase IIIB).


Percutaneous gastrostomy: use of intragastric balloon support.
To facilitate catheter entrance into the stomach during percutaneous gastrostomy, we sutured a balloon to a nasogastric tube and inflated the balloon in the stomach. The balloon provides support and firmness for the compliant stomach, and prevents the gastric wall from being pushed away by incoming needles and catheters. The balloon frequently becomes palpable in the left upper quadrant and offers a good target fluoroscopically or sonographically. Trocar catheters were easier to insert when the target balloon technique was used, and trocar puncture shortened procedure time. The technique initially was developed in the laboratory and then tested in cadavers. Presently it is used with patients. To date, no specific complications have occurred with this procedure.


Experience with diethylstilbestrol-exposed infertile women in a program of in vitro fertilization.
Twenty infertile women with a history of diethylstilbestrol exposure in utero were seen in Norfolk for the purpose of in vitro fertilization. Seventeen patients had undergone 25 stimulated cycles with harvest of oocytes by laparoscopy. The serum estradiol response to stimulation in these patients and the number and quality of oocytes retrieved did not differ significantly from those of patients with infertility due to blocked fallopian tubes. There were four pregnancies in 17 patients after 21 cycles of embryo transfers, for a pregnancy rate of 23.5% per patient, or 19% per embryo transfer. Two of the pregnant patients have had a term delivery, one has had a preclinical abortion, and one has a single intrauterine gestation in progress.


Community divergence and convergence along experimental gradients of stress and disturbance.
We created 24 mesocosms containing mixtures of herbaceous species arranged along experimentally maintained gradients of stress (external abiotic constraints limiting biomass production) and disturbance (events causing partial or total live biomass destruction) in order to determine the degree to which community assembly is deterministic or historically contingent during succession. In this 7-yr experiment, we found taxonomic divergence and functional convergence during the last 3 yr. Although communities became more functionally dissimilar as the difference in the level of stress increased, they were equally taxonomically different irrespective of the amount of difference between them in terms of stress and disturbance. In addition, comparing communities experiencing the same conditions, taxonomic community structure was more dissimilar as the levels of stress and disturbance decreased. Therefore, community assembly was largely deterministic from a functional perspective but more historically contingent from a taxonomic perspective, and the relative importance of taxonomic historical contingency decreased as the levels of stress and disturbance frequency increased.


Personality dimensions related to premature termination from an inpatient drug abuse treatment program.
Comparison of 135 program completers and 65 dropouts from an inpatient drug abuse detox/rehab. unit on 29 variables (MMPI validity and clinical scales, 13 Wiggins Content Items, number of Grayson Critical Items selected, MacAndrews Alcoholism Scale, and Age) revealed few group differences with univariate analyses. Multivariate and stepwise discriminant function analyses resulted in selected variables that achieved 64-87% stay/leave classification accuracy, depending on method of application. However, when these functions were cross-validated on independent samples within the same program at 3-year intervals, the classification accuracy generally was reduced by 50% or more. Results suggest that (a) there are few individual MMPI indices that predict patients at risk for program attrition; and (b) "good" multiple regression equations may not generalize to independent samples across time. Conceptualizing the dropout process ontogenetically will facilitate further experimental refinement and clinical understanding.


Impact of a multi-trigger intervention on seasonal patterns of asthma symptoms in inner city children.
Peaks in childhood asthma symptoms and asthma morbidity occur universally in the fall and late winter/early spring. This study examines whether there is a time of the year best suited to implement environmental interventions to attenuate this pattern. From September 2006 to June 2010, mid-Atlantic inner-city children asthmatics with 1 asthma-related hospitalization (IP) or 2 emergency (ED) visits the year prior to enrollment received 5 in-home self-management education sessions which included multi-trigger avoidance techniques and supplies. Children's daily asthma symptoms were recorded for 12 months by caregivers. One-hundred and thirty-six children (48%) completed 12 months of symptoms diaries. Symptom days were reduced by 4.5 days at 12 months follow-up (p < 0.001). Symptom severity improved with a decreased severity score of 29.0 to 7.9 at month 12 (p < 0.001). Sixty-one percent of patients with ≥2 ED visits at baseline dropped to 0-1visits (p < 0.001). Eighty percent of patients with ≥1 IP visits dropped to 0 visits at 12 months (p < 0.001). Patients who received intervention in the summer months had half the average monthly symptoms score (10.8) as those who received intervention in the spring months (20.8). When controlling for environment and morbidity, the summer enrolled group had a significantly lower (p = 0.021) symptom score than those in other seasons. Home self-management/environmental interventions for this cohort appear to have the greatest effect for those receiving the intervention in the summer and fall. The largest impact occurs in the summer cohort. Further studies with a control group are necessary to confirm these findings.


Test-Retest Reliability and Minimal Detectable Change of the Instrumented Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance in Healthy, Older Adults.
Test-retest reliability has not been previously reported for the instrumented modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction on Balance (i-mCTSIB) utilizing the Neurocom Very Simple Rehab (VSR) Sport force plate. The VSR Sport is a portable, relatively inexpensive force plate system utilized to assess postural stability in various populations. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the test-retest reliability, standard error of measurement (SEM), and minimal detectable change (MDC) of the i-mCTSIB when assessed using the VSR Sport in a sample of healthy, older adults. This was a methodological study with 20 healthy, older adults between the ages of 65 and 85 years. Participants were tested twice in a single session on the i-mCTSIB utilizing the VSR Sport force plate. The mean sway velocity (°/s) measurements for the 2 trials were compared for each test condition to compute intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for each measurement. Standard error of measurements and minimal detectable change at the 90% confidence level (MDC90) were also calculated. The test-retest reliability for each of the test conditions ranged from 0.762 to 0.909, which can be broadly interpreted as good-to-excellent reliability. The ICC(2,k) value of 0.898 for the composite score can also be interpreted as excellent reliability. Our results revealed small SEM for all test conditions (SEM = 0.060-0.101) except for the foam surface, eyes closed condition, with an SEM of 0.481. The MDC90 results for all testing conditions ranged from 0.140 to 0.285 except for the foam surface, eyes closed condition, which had an MDC90 = 1.12. The i-mCTSIB measurements utilizing the VSR Sport demonstrated good-to-excellent test-retest reliability. The clinical relevance of this study is that it demonstrates that the VSR Sport is a feasible alternative to other more expensive computerized systems used for the assessment of postural sway. MDC90 scores allow interpretation of change in i-mCTSIB scores following intervention. Practice effects may have contributed to the larger MDC90 for sway scores in the foam surface, eyes closed condition.


Freud's deshi: the coming of psychoanalysis to Japan.
This paper presents an account of four Japanese men, three of whom had an audience with Freud and who, with differing experiences and ambitions, returned to Japan to practice and develop psychoanalysis. Only two received any formal training, and two were strongly influenced by Buddhist thought. Freud gave no clear sign as to whom to appoint as leader, leaving the situation unsettled. This may have contributed to the continuing split and rivalry between groups, a split which was not resolved until the formation of the Japanese Psychoanalytic Society for trained analysts and the Association for interested laymen in the 1950s. From the beginning the development of psychoanalysis in Japan was informed by a paradox: the need to get Freud's approval and hence appear orthodox, while assimilating some of the concepts to the dictates of the culture.


Eco-Friendly Methanolic Myrrh Extract Corrosion Inhibitor for Aluminum in 1 M HCl.
Aluminum corrosion was inhibited by myrrh extract when it was placed in a solution of 1 M HCl. Several procedures were used for these tests, including weight loss WL, potential dynamic polarization PL, and electrochemical impedance EIS in addition to theoretical calculations like density functional theory (DFT), Fukui functions, and Monte Carlo simulation. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to analyze the compositional surface of Al. Scanning electron microscopy was used to determine the shape of the Al surface. The inhibition rate of Al corrosion in HCl with varying myrrh extract contents at 25-45 °C was studied. An analysis of the PL curves indicates that myrrh extract is an inhibitor of mixed type. Upon increasing the concentration of myrrh, the inhibition efficiency increased. Moreover, rising temperatures decrease inhibition efficiency. It was discovered that the inhibition process follows the Langmuir isotherm, demonstrating that a monolayer has formed on the surface of aluminum. Theoretical and practical studies proved the validity of the conclusions.


Use of the Inorganic Crystal Structure Database as a problem solving tool.
The information in the Inorganic Crystal Structure Database (ICSD) can be used to determine the structures of new compounds by analogy; this database is thus a useful tool for practical problem solving. A model for the structure of (NH(4))Fe(CO(3))(OH)(2) [Cmcm, a = 6.6154 (6), b = 12.0639 (10), c = 6.0263 (5) A, Z = 4] was found by searching the ICSD for compounds with C-centered orthorhombic cells and containing C, H, N and O. [Al(H(2)O)(6)](2)[Al(H(2)O)(5)(SO(4))](2)-(H(3)O)(2)(SO(4))(5) [P1;, a = 12.5881 (5), b = 13.0726 (5), c = 7.3354 (2) A, alpha = 108.162 (2), beta = 70.536 (2), gamma = 112.658 (2) degrees, Z = 1] is isostructural to a Cr compound of the same stoichiometry, which was located by searching on the formula type ANX = A4B7X52. Suitable models for MgCl(2)(H(2)O)(4) [P2(1)/c, a = 5.9001 (9), b = 7.2709 (7), c = 8.4199 (7) A, beta = 111.007 (15) degrees, Z = 2], MgCl(2)(H(2)O)(2) [C2/m, a = 7.3886 (29), b = 8.5498 (24), c = 3.6488 (17) A, beta = 98.96 (3) degrees, Z = 2], and MgCl(2)(H(2)O) [Pnma, a = 8.899 (7), b = 3.6339 (20), c = 11.398 (8) A, Z = 4] were located by combining searches on chemistry and formula type. Quantum-chemical calculations were performed on all five structures to locate the H-atom positions and to obtain quantitative understanding of the hydrogen bonding important in all the structures.


Collisional versus collisionless resonant and autoresonant heating in laser-cluster interaction.
When a hot cluster expands, a transient matching between the plasma frequency and the laser frequency has been predicted, observed, and analyzed recently. The associate energy transfer to the electrons has been described as an enhanced collisional absorption. However, for hot plasmas the collision frequency is small and a collisionless resonant heating is more efficient. We set up and solve the problem of resonant collisional and collisionless cluster heating taking into account cluster expansion, laser pulse duration and pulse chirping. Moreover, we identify an efficient autoresonant mechanism of collisionless heating with a chirped laser pulse when the crossing between the plasmon frequency and the laser frequency is degenerate and the time derivatives of these two frequencies are equal at the crossing time. Transition between collisional regime of cluster heating and collisionless one is discussed.


Dissection of ascending aorta. A new cause of alveolar hemorrhage?
Alveolar hemorrhage is an entity caused by different etiologies. We report the case of a male who was admitted in our Service due to hemoptysis secondary to an alveolar hemorrhage diagnosed by chest X-ray and fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Thirty six hours after the admission the patient died and his necropsy showed dissection of ascending aorta and alveolar hemorrhage.


Acute Pancreatitis, Hypertriglyceridemia, and Diabetic Ketoacidosis: A Life-Threatening Triad.
Hypertriglyceridemia (HTG)-induced pancreatitis is a known complication of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM). However, the coexistence of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and acute pancreatitis in the presence of HTG is rare and presents diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We present the case of a 42-year-old female with poorly controlled type 2 DM who developed severe HTG-induced pancreatitis complicated by DKA. She initially presented with abdominal pain, metabolic acidosis, and marked hyperglycemia. Subsequent investigations revealed significantly elevated serum triglyceride and lipase levels and characteristic findings of acute pancreatitis on imaging. This case report highlights the complex interplay of metabolic disturbances in diabetes and the importance of timely recognition and tailored management to achieve a successful outcome.


A theoretical study of hydration effects on the prototropic tautomerism of selenouracils.
The prototropic tautomerism of 2-, 4-selenouracil and 2,4-diselenouracil has been studied using density functional theory (DFT) methods, at the B3LYP/6-311 + G(3df,2p)//B3LYP/6-31G(d,p) level. The relative stability order of selenouracil tautomers does not resemble that of uracil tautomers, but it is similar to that of thiouracils, even though the energy gaps between the different tautomers of selenouracils are smaller than for thiouracils. The tautomerism activation barriers are high enough as to conclude that only the oxo-selenone or the diselenone structures should be found in the gas phase. The specific interaction with one water molecule reduces these barriers by a half, but still the oxo-selenone form is always the most stable tautomer. The addition of a second water molecule has a relatively small effect, as well as bulk effects, evaluated by means of a continuum-polarized model. For isolated 2- and 4-selenouracils, the more favorable tautomerization process corresponds to a hydrogen transfer towards the selenium atom, the activation barriers for transfer towards the oxygen atom being much higher. This situation changes when specific and bulk effects are included, and the latter process becomes the more favorable one. For 2,4-diselenouracil the more favorable tautomerization, in the gas phase, corresponds to the H shift from N1 to the Se atom at C2, while solvation effects favor the transfer from N3 to the Se atom at C4.


Investigation of the effect of dipyrone on cells isolated from intervertebral disc tissue.
The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of dipyrone, an indispensable analgesic, anti-pyretic and anti-spasmodic used in emergency departments, on nucleus pulposus and annulus fibrosus cells in vitro. After surgical biopsy, primary cell cultures were prepared from intact intervertebral disc tissues. Dipyrone was administered to the cultures in the experimental groups except for the control group. The data obtained were statistically evaluated. The proliferation was identified to be suppressed via MTT analysis. The gene expression profile of the intervertebral disc cells in the dipyrone-treated groups was significantly changed. The expression of chondroadherin, cartilage oligo matrix protein, interleukin-1β and metalloproteinase (MMP)-19 genes were decreased, but MMP-13 and MMP-7 genes expressions were increased, as determined via reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. AO/PI staining revealed that no apoptotic or other type of cell death was detectable after administration of dipyrone does not mean that the drug is innocuous. The occurrence of cellular senescence and/or the halt of cell proliferation may also be important mechanisms underlying the adverse inhibitory effects of dipyrone. Therefore, prior to administering dipyrone in clinical practice, all possible adverse effects of this drug should be considered.


[The value of angiography, sonography and computed tomography in follow-up studies after palliative renal tumour embolization (author's transl)].
Palliative transcatheter tumour embolization was performed in 40 patients having non-operable renal carcinoma using particulate, semiliquid and liquid embolizing substances. In addition the Gianturco-Andersen-Wallace (GAW) coil was applied in 7 patients showing remarkable vascular recanalization. Effects of the angiotherapeutic procedures were controlled by re-angiography in 33 cases. Sonography was performed in 15 cases and computed tomography in 24 patients before and after embolization. It was found that the re-angiography was necessary: a) as thhe first control to prove the extension of thrombotic obstruction and to assess the remaining collateral circulation; b) as an indication for re-embolization in 7 cases showing remarkable recanalization. Follow-up computed tomography and sonography helped to observe the long-term changes: shrinkage of the tumour and the embolized kidney, and recurrence of the tumor growth or local retroperitoneal and liver metastases. The analysis of our observations confirms the value of re-angiography for the short-term follow-up study. Sonography and computed tomography are reliable procedures for the further follow-up of patients.


Increased Training Volume Improves Bone Density and Cortical Area in Adolescent Football Players.
Habitual football participation has been shown to be osteogenic, although the specific volume of football participation required to cause bone adaptations are not well established. The aim of the present study is to investigate tibial bone adaptations in response to 12 weeks of increased training volume in elite adolescents who are already accustomed to irregular impact training. 99 male adolescent elite footballers participated (age 16±0 y; height 1.76±0.66 m; body mass 70.2±8.3 kg). Tibial scans were performed using peripheral quantitative computed tomography immediately before and 12 weeks after an increase in football training volume. Scans were obtained at 4, 14, 38 and 66% of tibial length. Trabecular density (mg/cm3), cortical density (mg/cm3), cross-sectional area, cortical area (mm2), cortical thickness (mm) and strength strain index (mm3) were assessed. Trabecular (4%) and cortical density (14, 38%), cortical cross-sectional area (14, 38%), total cross-sectional area (66%), cortical thickness (14, 38%) and strength strain index (14, 38%) increased following 12 weeks of augmented volume training (P<0.05). Increased density of trabecular and cortical compartments and cortical thickening were shown following an increased volume of training. These adaptive responses may have been enhanced by the adolescent status of the cohort, supporting the role of early exercise intervention in improving bone strength.


A rare case of a strangulated Littre's hernia with Meckel's diverticulum duplication. Case report and literature review.
The Meckel's diverticulum (MD) is the most common congenital anomaly of the gastrointestinal tract present in approximately 1-4% of the population; the MD duplication is exceedingly rare with only a few reports of it. Here we present the firs case of a strangulated Littre's hernia with MD duplication. A 30-year-old male presented to the emergency room with clinical signs of small bowel obstruction, at physical examination, a right incarcerated inguinal hernia with erythema was found. We did a laparotomy, and two MD were found, one in the sac with ischemia, and the other 90cm from the Bahuińs valve. A diverticulectomy of the ischemic diverticulum was done, and the other MD was left in place; the inguinal region was repaired with a Lichtenstein technique. The complications of the MD are 3-4 times more frequent in men, been an intestinal obstruction, hemorrhage, diverticulitis, ulceration, and perforation. A Littrés hernia is when the MD is found in the sac; this is seen in the inguinal region in 50% of the cases. The management of a Littre's hernia is the resection of the MD; it could be done by an intestinal resection or by a diverticulectomy accordingly to the Park criteria. As to our knowledge, this is the first case of an incarcerated Littre's hernia with duplication of a Meckel's diverticulum.


The Compliance of Current Small Animal CPR Practice With RECOVER Guidelines: An Internet-Based Survey.
In 2012 the Reassessment Campaign on Veterinary Resuscitation (RECOVER) published evidence-based treatment recommendations for dogs and cats with cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA), to optimize the clinical practice of small animal CPR and positively impact outcomes. Six years after the release of these guidelines, we aimed to determine the compliance of small animal veterinary CPR practices with these RECOVER guidelines. To identify current CPR practices in clinically active small animal veterinarians and their awareness of the RECOVER guidelines, we conducted an internet-based survey. Survey invitations were disseminated internationally via veterinary professional organizations and their social media outlets. Questions explored respondent demographics, CPR preparedness, BLS and ALS techniques and awareness of RECOVER guidelines. Responding small animal veterinarians (n = 770) in clinical practice were grouped by level of expertise: board-certified specialists (BCS, n = 216) and residents (RES, n = 69) in anesthesia or emergency and critical care, practitioners in emergency (GPE, n = 299) or general practice (GPG, n = 186). Large disparities in preparedness measures, BLS and ALS techniques emerged among levels of expertise. Only 32% (95% CI: 29-36%) of respondents complied with BLS practice guidelines, varying from 49% (95% CI: 42-55%) of BCS to 15% (95% CI: 10-20%) of GPG. While incompliances in BCS, RES, and GPE were predominantly due to knowledge gaps, GPG compliance was further compromised by limitations in the resuscitation environment (e.g., defibrillator availability, team size). Those aware of RECOVER guidelines (100% of BCS and RES; 77% of GPE; 35% of GPG) were more likely to comply with recommended preparedness (OR = 2.4; 95% CI: 1.2-4.8), BLS (OR = 4.5; 95% CI: 2.4-9.1), and ALS techniques (OR = 7.8; 95% CI: 2.4-9.1) independent of age, gender, region of practice or level of expertise. We conclude that awareness of RECOVER guidelines is high in specialists and residents, but incomplete among general practitioners. This awareness positively influenced compliance with CPR guidelines, but CPR practices continue to be variable and largely not in agreement with guidelines. A widely accessible educational strategy is required to broadly improve compliance with best practices in small animal CPR.


Mammary fat pad may be a potential site for initiation of estrogen action in normal mouse mammary glands.
The effect of estradiol (E2) on mammary and uterine DNA synthesis has been examined in castrated virgin mice. In both these target tissues for E2, in vitro incorporation of thymidine into DNA begins 12 h after E2 treatment, and by 24 h there is approximately a 3-fold increase in the mammary glands and a 9-fold increase in the uterus. Whereas in the uterus by 48 h after E2 the rate of DNA synthesis has basically returned to control values, in the mammary gland a maximal stimulation of DNA synthesis is observed at this time, and even at 72 h after E2 there is still approximately a 2-fold increase in DNA synthesis. In vivo histoautoradiography reveals that, unlike in the uterus, 24 h after E2 there is virtually no uptake of labeled thymidine in the mammary epithelium; the increase in the uptake of thymidine is now mostly confined to the mammary adipose and connective tissues. However, 48 and 72 h after E2 there is extensive labeling of the mammary epithelium in addition to the adipose and connective tissues. These data lead us to suggest that both the mammary fat pad and epithelium are responsive to E2, and that, at least with respect to mammary cell proliferation, the mammary fat pad may be the site of initiation of estrogen action.


The role of putrescine in modulation of DNA synthesis in regenerating liver of rats pretreated with 5-azacytidine.
The relationship between polyamine metabolism and DNA synthesis in regenerating liver was investigated using normal and 5-azacytidine-treated rats. The increase of DNA synthesis in regenerating rat liver was completely inhibited by administration of the analogue 1 h after partial hepatectomy. On the contrary, early and enhanced increase (modulation) of DNA synthesis was observed when the analogue was injected 24 h before partial hepatectomy. Changes in ornithine decarboxylase [EC 220.127.116.11] activity and the tissue levels of polyamines in liver remnants showed similar patterns in normal and 5-azacytidine-pretreated rats, except that the putrescine level in removed liver and the spermidine level in the S-phase were significantly higher in the drug-pretreated rats. On the other hand, a single injection of the analogue into intact rats evoked marked increase in hepatic ornithine decarboxylase activity followed by increase in the tissue level of putrescine, but not of spermidine or spermine. No similar increase in the enzyme activity was detected after injection of 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine, which did not cause modulation of DNA synthesis. No modulation of DNA synthesis in regenerating liver of rats pretreated with 5-azacytidine was observed when partial hepatectomy was carried out before increase of the hepatic level of putrescine. In addition, a positive and highly significant correlation was observed between the level of putrescine in the liver removed at partial hepatectomy and the extent of modulation of DNA synthesis in regenerating liver of rats pretreated with 5-azacytidine. These results suggest that putrescine plays an important role in modulation of DNA synthesis and support our previous proposal that putrescine may have at least two roles in DNA synthesis.


Efficient Photocatalytic Reduction of CO2 to CO Using NiFe2O4@N/C/SnO2 Derived from FeNi Metal-Organic Framework.
Use of light is considered an effective approach to convert CO2 into usable chemical energy. In the present study, an iron- and nickel-containing bimetallic metal-organic framework (MOF) was synthesized via a simple solvothermal route. SnO2 was then composited with the said MOF, and the obtained material was calcined and annealed to fabricate a series of nanophotocatalysts. The annealed sample displayed superior photocatalytic activity to the calcined sample, possibly due to the carbon-nitrogen layer formed after annealing mediating the charge-transfer process. The results of photocatalytic experiments indicated that using [Ru(bpy)3]Cl2·6H2O as a photosensitizer and triethanolamine (TEOA) and acetonitrile (MeCN) as sacrificial agents, the catalyst sample was annealed at 450 °C (NiFe2O4@N/C/SnO2-450) to afford the highest CO yield from CO2 (2057.41 μmol g-1 h-1). The increase in the photocatalytic ability of the nanocomposites is basically attributed to multiple synergistic effects between NiFe2O4 and SnO2, which reduce the recombination probability of the photo-induced electrons and holes. Ultimately, a photocatalytic reaction mechanism is proposed for NiFe2O4@N/C/SnO2 in the reduction of CO2.


Intravitreal bevacizumab treatment for macular edema due to branch retinal vein occlusion in a clinical setting.
To report the functional and anatomical outcome of intravitreal bevacizumab (IVB) treatment for macular edema due to branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) in a clinical setting. The files of 45 patients treated with IVB for BRVO-induced macular edema at a tertiary medical center in 2007-2010 were reviewed. All received three loading doses (1.25 mg) and were followed every 6 weeks. Treatment was repeated for persistent or recurrent edema. If the edema did not resolve after 4-6 injections, grid laser photocoagulation was performed. Mean patient age was 70.7 years (SD 8.5); mean follow-up time, 18.8 months (SD 8.3); mean number of injections, 8.8 (SD 3.8). Fourteen patients (33%) received grid laser treatment before bevacizumab and 23 (51%) after. Mean logMAR visual acuity (VA) was 0.63 (SD 0.43) before treatment (Snellen, 20/140) and 0.4 (SD 0.43) (Snellen, 20/70) after (p < 0.0005). Corresponding central macular thickness (CMT) values were 382.2 microns (SD 155.6) and 320.5 microns (SD 172.8) (p= 0.028). Positive correlations were found between initial VA and initial and final CMT (p = 0.004) and between gain in VA and reduction in CMT (p = 0.03). There was no statistically significant difference in mean initial or final VA and CMT between patients who received grid laser treatment before or during the study and those who did not. IVB treatment improves visual function and reduces CMT in patients with BRVO-induced macular edema.


Significant Association of CXCL12 rs1746048 with LDL-C Level in Intracranial Aneurysms.
C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 12 (CXCL12) may play an important role in the development of Intracranial Aneurysm (IA). The goal of this study was to explore the association between CXCL12 rs1746048 genotypes and circulating lipid concentrations along with the risk of IA. A total of 256 IA patients and 361 healthy volunteers were included in the case-control study. The genotypes of CXCL12 rs1746048 were detected by Melting Temperature shift (Tmshift) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Significant higher levels were seen in Total Cholesterol (TC) (padjusted < 0.001), Highdensity Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C) (padjusted < 0.001), Low-density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C) (padjusted < 0.001), Apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I) (padjusted = 0.040), and Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) (padjusted < 0.001) in IAs compared with controls. CXCL12 rs1746048 T allele frequency showed significant association with the risk of IA in the female group aged 65 or above (p = 0.019, Odds Ratio (OR) = 2.15, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) = 1.13 - 4.11, power = 64.8%). Moreover, CXCL12 rs1746048 was likely to be a risk variant of IA under the recessive model in females older than 65 years. (p = 0.030, OR = 3.77, 95%CI = 1.08 - 13.12, power = 81.8%). Additionally, we also found that the levels of LDL-C were significantly different among three genotypes (CC vs. CT vs. TT = 2.75±0.73 vs. 3.03±0.89 vs. 2.82±0.72, p = 0.035) in IA patients. Our results suggest that CXCL12 rs1746048 is significantly associated with IA risk in Han Chinese females aged 65 years and older. Additionally, the genotypes of CXCL12 rs1746048 may affect the LDL-C concentrations in IA patients.


Shockwave Targeting on Subchondral Bone Is More Suitable than Articular Cartilage for Knee Osteoarthritis.
Our study compared the effects of extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) on the subchondral bone and the articular cartilage in the treatment of early osteoarthritis (OA) of rat knee. The rats were divided into 5 groups which included Sham group, Meniscus group (ESWT applied on medial meniscus), OA group (arthrotomy and medial menisectomy (MMx) and anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT), T(M) group (arthrotomy and MMx and ACLT followed by ESWT on medial tibial subchondral bone) and Articular cartilage group (arthrotomy and MMx and ACLT followed by ESWT on medial articular cartilage). Evaluations included the pathological changes of the synovium, articular cartilage and subchondral bone, and compared with ESWT on the meniscus, medial tibial subchondral bone and articular cartilage. The ESWT (0.25 mJ/mm² and 800 impulses) did not cause any damages on the cartilage of the meniscus and the tissue of the joint when compared with Sham group. Among the treatment of osteoarthritic groups (OA, T(M) and Articular cartilage groups), T(M) group showed significant in pathological examination, micro-CT analysis, cartilage grading score and grading of synovium changes by compared with OA and Articular cartilage groups (P < 0.05) in the treatment of early OA knee. In immunohistochemical analysis, T(M) group significantly increased the expression of TGF-β1 but reduced DMP-1, MMP-13 and ADAMTS-5 in the cartilage by compared with OA group and Articular cartilage group (P < 0.05). Our results showed that subchondral bone was an excellent target than articular cartilage for ESWT on early knee osteoarthritis.


Community Asthma Initiative: Cost Analyses using Claims Data from a Medicaid Managed Care Organization.
Objective: Use claims data to examine the cost benefit of the Community Asthma Initiative (CAI), a Boston area nurse-supervised community health worker (CHW) asthma home-visiting program. Methods: The reduction in asthma treatment costs was assessed using Massachusetts claims data from one Medicaid Managed Care Organization (MCO) in the north east that included all costs between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2016. The data was used to determine asthma-related utilization cost reductions between 1 year pre- and 1, 2 and 3 years post-intervention. The cost reductions for 45 CAI patients and 45 cost-matched comparison patients were measured. Return on investment (ROI) was computed as the difference in cost reduction for CAI patients and a cost-matched comparison population divided by CAI program cost. Results: The excess reduction in per patient asthma-related utilization costs among CAI patients compared to the comparison population was $806 (p = 0.047), $1,253 (p = 0.01) and $1,549 (p = 0.005) between 1 year pre- and 1, 2 and 3 years post-intervention. These yielded adjusted ROI's of 0.31, 0.78 and 1.37 after 1, 2 and 3 years post-CAI intervention. Conclusions: The reduction in asthma utilization costs of a home visit program by nurse-supervised CHWs exceeds program costs. The findings support the business case for the provision of secondary prevention of home-based asthma services through reimbursement from payers or integration into Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs).


Enzymatic textile recycling - best practices and outlook.
Recently, textiles and their end-of-life management have become the focus of public and political attention. In the European Union the revised waste framework directive defines textiles as municipal waste and stipulates their separate collection by 2025. In the context of these developments, this paper summarises briefly the current state-of-the-art in textile recycling. It is evident that recycling methods are not yet fully developed. This is especially the case with multi-material textiles, which are composed of two or more polymers that are incompatible for recycling. In the practical part of the communication, results are presented which show that enzymatic hydrolysis is a suitable process for recycling textiles made of cotton and polyester. After a complete removal of cotton, the remaining pure polyester fibres undergo a re-granulation and post-condensation step. The so obtained recycled polyester is fed back into the textile processing chain and finally towels are obtained. The main steering parameters of the enzymatic hydrolysis process are described. The study proves that solutions in accordance with the Circular Economy in the textile sector are available but an industrial implementation has not yet been realised.


An infant with Netherton syndrome and persistent pulmonary hypertension requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
Netherton syndrome is a rare genodermatosis characterized by ichthyosiform scaling, hair shaft abnormalities, and atopic features. Affected infants typically have delayed growth and development, immune abnormalities with recurrent infections, and intermittent aminoaciduria. We report a 23-day-old girl who presented with severe primary pulmonary hypertension, exfoliative erythroderma, and trichorrhexis invaginata. Genetic studies confirmed a premature termination mutation R350X in exon 12 of SPINK5. This mutation further supports the genotypic-phenotypic prediction that severe sequela result from premature termination mutations. To our knowledge, this is the first instance of Netherton syndrome associated with primary pulmonary hypertension to be reported. Further postulated is a possible link between excessive desquamation of fetal skin and respiratory failure in a neonate with Netherton syndrome.


Molecular basis for hyperkalemic periodic paralysis.
At least one form of periodic paralysis is a direct consequence of a mutation in a skeletal muscle, voltage-sensitive sodium channel--it was observed that many individual with this disease developed low serum potassium levels during paralytic episodes. Some families had hyperkalemic paralysis with serum potassium levels of 6 or 7 mEg/L during paralytic crises. In both hypokalemic and hyperkalemic paralysis one of the precipitants is a period of rest after exertion. In hypokalemic periodic paralysis carbohydrates may initiate weakness. In both hyper- and hypokalemic forms, the disorder is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. During hypokalemic and hyperkalemic paralysis, one might respectively anticipate muscle hyperpolarization or depolarization. Has been observed a potassium-related abnormality of sodium conductance in the pathogenesis at least of the hyperkalemic form of periodic paralysis. The fact that TTX reverses the physiological defect suggested the hypothesis that the primary problem might be a mutation in a TTX-sensitive sodium channel. The protein consists of some 2000 amino acids with characteristic intracytoplasmic and extracellular domains as well a four remarkably conserved membrane spanning domains, each composed of six transmembrane of a polymorphism of the human sodium channel with hyperkalemic paralysis. When multipoint analysis was used to test for coinheritance of the disease with both Na-2 and growth hormone polymorphisms, a lod score of 7 was obtained. That is, the ratio of the probability of linkage to non-linkage is 10 million to one. When extracellular potassium is increased to 10 mM, the affected myotubes demonstrate strikingly abnormal channel behavior characterized by prolonged open times or repetitive opens throughout the voltage step. Potassium implicate as a primary factor triggering an abnormal sodium channel gating mode and, as a result, aberrant sodium current behavior. It was estimated that, for the normal channel, the probability of entering a non-inactivating mode was very low and independent of potassium. On the other hand, for the abnormal channel the probability of entering an inactive mode rises up to 5-fold with hyperkalemic. Four mutations have recently been detected in individuals with cold-sensitive paramyotenia congenital. Two of the cause amino acid substitutions within the III-IV intracytoplasmic loop. It is striking that one substitutes a valine for a glycine. An analysis of the molecular biology of each mutation should illuminate not only the disease phenotype but also biophysical properties of specific sub-regions of this muscle sodium channel.


Neurobehavioral Impact of Successive Cycles of Sleep Restriction With and Without Naps in Adolescents.
To characterize adolescents' neurobehavioral changes during two cycles of restricted and recovery sleep and to examine the effectiveness of afternoon naps in ameliorating neurobehavioral deficits associated with multiple nights of sleep restriction. Fifty-seven healthy adolescents (aged 15-19 years; 31 males) participated in a parallel group study. They underwent two cycles of sleep restriction (5-hr time in bed [TIB] for five and three nights in the first and the second cycles, respectively; 01:00-06:00) and recovery (9-hr TIB for two nights per cycle; 23:00-08:00) intended to simulate the weekday sleep loss and weekend attempt to "catch up" on sleep. Half of the participants received a 1-hr nap opportunity at 14:00 following each sleep-restricted night, while the other half stayed awake. Sustained attention, sleepiness, speed of processing, executive function, and mood were assessed 3 times each day. Participants who were not allowed to nap showed progressive decline in sustained attention that did not return to baseline after two nights of recovery sleep. Exposure to the second period of sleep restriction increased the rate of vigilance deterioration. Similar patterns were found for other neurobehavioral measures. Napping attenuated but did not eliminate performance decline. These findings contrasted with the stable performance of adolescents, given 9-hr TIB each night in our recent study. Adolescents' neurobehavioral functions may not adapt to successive cycles of sleep curtailment and recovery. In sleep-restricted adolescents, weekend "catch-up sleep," even when combined with napping during weekdays, is inferior to receiving a 9-hr sleep opportunity each night.


Rapid estimation of pulmonary extravascular water with an instream catheter.
An arterial catheter-bearing external conductivity electrodes and a thermistor was used for measurement of lung thermal volume (LTV) by the double-indicator method. Ten milliliters of 3% saline at room temperature were injected, dilution curves measured, and LTV calculated as mean transit time difference, less thermistor time constant, times cardiac output (CO). Comparisons were made, in dogs, between LTV, pulmonary extravascular lung water with Evans blue and tritiated water (PEVWtho), and weighed lung water (WLW). Pulmonary edema was induced with dextran and epinephrine. CO was measured by thermodilution in both the pulmonary artery (PA) and aorta (AO) and dye dilution in the AO. CO from dye dilution was compared with thermodilution (aortic detection) to detect irreversible loss of thermal indicator. Comparisons showed good correspondence of dye and thermal curves (Y = 0.91X - 0.16 1/min; r = 0.93). LTV is about 120% of WLW in near normal lungs, 90% of WLW in extreme edema. PEVWtho was 60-70% WLW.


Significance of Onodera's prognostic nutritional index in patients with colorectal cancer: a large cohort study in a single Chinese institution.
The preoperative nutritional and immunological statuses have an important impact in predicting the survival outcome of patients with various types of malignant tumors. Our study aimed to explore the clinical significance and predictive prognostic potential of Onodera's prognostic nutritional index (PNI) in patients with colorectal carcinoma. This retrospective study included a total of 1321 patients who were diagnosed with colorectal cancer and who had been surgically treated between January 1994 and December 2007. The PNI level was determined according the following formula: 10 × serum albumin (g/dL) + 0.005 × total lymphocyte count (per mm(3)). The impact of PNI on clinicopathological features and overall survival (OS) was determined. The optimal cutoff value of PNI was set at 45. Patients in the low-PNI group had a greater potential to have aggressive histological features, advanced tumors (T), nodal involvement (N), metastasis (M), and TNM stage than those in the high-PNI group. The low-PNI group had a worse OS than the high-PNI group (5-year survival rate 56.1 vs 64.8 %, respectively; P < 0.05). Furthermore, the PNI value was an independent prognostic factor for colorectal cancer in this study. The OS was significantly lower in the low-PNI group than in the high-PNI group in patients with TNM stage II and III diseases. Preoperative PNI is a simple and useful marker to predict clinicopathological features and long-term survival outcome in patients with colorectal carcinoma. PNI analysis should be included in the routine assessment of patients with locally advanced colorectal cancer.


Self-Assembly Nanostructures of Triglyceride-Water Interfaces Determine Functional Conformations of Candida antarctica Lipase B.
Candida antarctica lipase B (CalB) acts as a lipase when adsorbed to an acylglyceride interface and as an esterase when exposed to an aqueous environment. The effect of the molecular self-assembly nanostructure of triglyceride-water interfaces on structural conformations of adsorbed CalB and the implications to its catalytic function were studied by molecular dynamics simulations. Systems of CalB adsorbed to interfaces and solvated in water were compared. The two environments induced relative motions of helices α5 and α10 that resulted in open and closed conformations. The open conformation was stabilized by interactions between the polar and nonpolar amino acids of α5 and α10 and the nanostructure of triglyceride aggregates, which self-assembled into crystalline-like patterns of alternating polar and nonpolar lamellae. Thus, the structure of CalB has been adapted by evolution to the geometric constraints imposed by the interface nanostructure for optimized catalytic activity. Helices α5 and α10 have two functions. As mobile elements, they ensure access of bulky substrates to the active site in the open conformation. As a part of the active site pocket, they ensure binding of substrate molecules in a productive orientation near the active site. In water, access to the binding site is limited, and the smaller substrate binding site is beneficial for the binding of small, water-soluble substrates. The CalB crystal structure commonly used for protein engineering studies represents an intermediate state between open and closed, and may thus not be adequate to assess the function of CalB, neither as lipase nor as esterase.


Natural history and therapy of chronic hepatitis B virus infection.
The realization that spontaneous loss of viral replication in chronic hepatitis B virus carriers was associated with remission, by whatever criteria, led directly to the search for agents or combinations of agents capable of abbreviating the duration of viral replication. Of those assessed to date, only alpha-interferons have gained wide acceptance as single-agent therapy. Treatment must be for three months on an alternate-day basis; on this regimen, at least one third of patients will develop clinical and biochemical evidence of an exacerbation of hepatitis followed by rapid clearance from serum of all markers of viral replication, and in some cases, also of hepatitis B surface antigen. A large proportion of carriers remains insensitive to alpha-interferons, however, and studies based on the combination of interferons with other agents that have proved less effective, but with different modes of action, are in progress and appear promising.


Is there a long-term protective effect of mood-altering agents in unipolar depressive disorder?
Major depression is common, often severe, and usually recurrent, and it carries an excess risk of mortality due to medical illness as well as suicide. At referral centers, recurrence risk averages 85% within 2-3 years of full recovery from an acute episode. The natural history of major depression is highly variable, but typically episodes las ca. 6 months, with cycles of ca. 2 years. Yet, most long-term treatment studies are limited to the year or two following recovery from an acute episode. Accordingly, available evidence best supports a relapse-preventing effect of tri-cyclic antidepressants or lithium within the first months after apparent recovery but is less compelling regarding prevention of later recurrences of new episodes. Other treatments have not been evaluated systematically. The hypothesis that bipolarlike, but apparently unipolar, patients might respond selectively to lithium maintenance requires further testing. Knowledge of long-term dose-benefit and dose-risk relationships is starting to emerge for lithium, but these relationships remain inadequately tested for antidepressants. Actual levels of clinical treatment of major depression appear to fall short of the ideal, and much additional research and education is required to improve care in this very common disorder.


Cord serum AFP and the immunological status of the mother: a lack of correlation.
Cord serum from 139 newborns was analysed for alpha-fetoprotein and immunoglobulin G and the results correlated with the obstetric records of the mothers. No significant correlation was found in comparing either alpha-fetoprotein or immunoglobulin G levels with the previous obstetric experiences of the mothers. A previously reported sex difference of alpha-fetoprotein levels at birth was not found in this study. These results are discussed in the light of the possible immunosuppressive effects of alpha-fetoprotein.


[The progressive models of educational activities as a basis for the training of forensic medical experts of the new generation].
The authors interpret forensic expertology as a synthetic science and propose the models for the training of professionals in the field of forensic medical expertise. They provide a rationale for the realization of such systematic training in the framework of the model of the three-level system based at the educational institutions of higher professional education. Characteristic features of the existing standards of professional training in the sphere of forensic medical expertise are considered with special reference to the organization of education of future forensic medical experts based at the many-level programs adopted in the Russian University of People's Friendship. The authors maintain that the integration of the activities of the Russian University of People's Friendship in the sphere of training of highly qualified forensic medical professionals and the potential of other leading Russian and foreign educational institutions in the close collaboration with the practical forensic medical facilities would provide a solid basis for the long-term fruitful cooperation for the modernization of the existing system of the training of forensic experts, its harmonization with the most sophisticated international programs, innovative scientific and educational technologies integrated into the system of management of the quality of modern laboratories of forensic medical expertise. It is concluded that the modification of the system of professional education in the field of forensic medical education constitutes the strategic approach to the solution of the problem of professional competence in the sphere of forensic expert activities.


Pyogenic psoas abscesses: noninvasive diagnostic techniques and review of the literature.
Psoas muscle abscesses are a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Until recently, surgery was mandated for diagnosis and drainage of these deep posterior lesions. Scanning techniques such as computerized tomography, radionuclide imaging, and ultrasonography now enable noninvasive visualization of abnormalities of the psoas muscle. Patients with abscesses in the greater psoas muscle fall into two distinct groups. Six of 12 patients reviewed had no apparent predisposing conditions. These patients presented with subacute symptoms of fever, pain, and disability. Staphylococcus aureus was the predominant organism isolated. Psoas infections developed in six other patients secondarily to infection or trauma elsewhere in the abdomen. Gram-negative and enteric organisms were the predominant bacteria isolated from this group. Surgical drainage in selected patients and appropriate antimicrobial therapy is necessary for treatment of these infections. Late complications such as osteomyelitis are not unusual.


Preoperative plasma transcript AA454543 level is an independent prognostic factor for hepatocellular carcinoma after partial hepatectomy.
We have previously reported that tissue expression levels of transcript AA454543 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are significantly higher than those of normal livers, livers with cirrhosis, and livers with hepatitis. In addition, a higher level of transcript AA454543 in tumor tissues is associated with poor prognosis. We aim to examine whether quantitative measurement of preoperative plasma transcript AA454543 can provide similar prognostic information. Blood samples were obtained from 84 HCC patients before surgery. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, using TaqMan system, was employed to measure plasma transcript AA454543 and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) RNA levels. We assessed their prediction power in prognosis using univariate and multivariate analyses. High plasma transcript AA454543 RNA levels were associated with poor overall survival (log-rank test, P < .01). Patients with different plasma AFP RNA levels revealed no difference in overall survival (log-rank test, P = .88). By multivariate Cox regression analysis, plasma transcript AA454543 RNA level (hazard ratio = 4.8, P < .01) and tumor stage (hazard ratio = 1.7, P < .01) were determined to be independent risk factors for the prediction of overall survival. Preoperative plasma transcript AA454543 RNA level can provide prognostic information for HCC patients receiving curative partial hepatectomy.


Self-assembly of nanohills in Si1-xGe(x)/Si hetero-epitaxial structure due to Ge redistribution induced by laser radiation.
The study is focused on formation and optical properties of nanostructures induced by laser radiation on the surface of Si1-xGe(x)/Si hetero-structures. Formation of self-assembling nanohills induced by irradiation of nanosecond Nd:YAG laser pulses on the Si0.7Ge0.3/Si hetero-epitaxial structures is reported. The atomic force microscope study of the irradiated surface morphology has shown a start of nanohills formation after laser irradiation of the intensity I = 7.0 MW/cm2. The huge "blue shift" of photoluminescence spectra with maximum intensity in region of 700-800 nm (1.76-1.54 eV) is explained by the quantum confinement effect in the nanohills. The maximum of this photoluminescence band slightly shifts to shorter wavelengths with the increase of the intensity of laser pulses used for sample treatment. Appearance of the 300 cm(-1) Ge-Ge vibration band in Raman scattering spectra for sample irradiated with I = 20.0 MW/cm2 is explained by Ge phase formation. Formation of the Ge-rich phase is explained by localization of Ge atoms drifting toward the irradiated surface under the thermal gradient due to strong absorption of laser radiation. Ellipsometric data confirm appearance of Ge-rich phase precipitates amounting to 7.1%, 6.4% of the total Ge content induced by laser radiation of intensities I1 = 20.0 MW/cm2, I2 = 7.0 MW/cm2 respectively.


Doppler ultrasonography of the uterine artery and the response to chemotherapy in patients with gestational trophoblastic tumors.
Increasing new blood vessel formation (neoangiogenesis) within tumors is an adverse prognostic factor for survival in several cancers. Neoangiogenesis is usually determined histopathologically and not in vivo. To assess neoangiogenesis in vivo, we have used Doppler ultrasonography (US) to measure the uterine artery pulsatility index (UAPI) in patients with gestational trophoblastic tumors (GTTs). Here, we assess whether the UAPI can provide independent prognostic information predictive of methotrexate resistance (MTX-R), a drug central to the management of GTT. All patients treated for GTTs between March 1994 and January 1999 had their records reviewed to determine their pretreatment Charing Cross Hospital (CXH) prognostic score, uterine volume, the lowest UAPI of either uterine artery, number of metastases, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) concentration. Of the 164 patients for whom all data were available, 47 subsequently developed MTX-R, defined as a plateaued or rising hCG in two consecutive samples. UAPI, hCG, uterine volume, presence of metastases, and the overall CXH prognostic score were all predictive of MTX-R on univariate analysis. Moreover, the UAPI remained a significant independent predictor of MTX-R on multiple logistic regression analysis. After adjustment for the CXH prognostic score, the odds ratio for the risk of MTX-R in patients with a UAPI < or =1 compared with those with a UAPI >1 was 2.68 (95% confidence interval, 1.25-5.74; P = 0.01). The unadjusted odds ratio for the above comparison was 2.32 (95% confidence interval, 1.14-4.7; P = 0.02). The UAPI, as an indirect in vivo measure of functional tumor vascularity, independently predicts the response to chemotherapy in GTTs.


Improved HIV awareness and perceived empowerment to negotiate safe sex among married women in Ethiopia between 2005 and 2011.
The HIV prevalence rate in Ethiopia for married (or cohabiting) women is 3 times that found amongst women who have never been married. While marriage used to be seen as a protective factor against HIV, evidence suggests that this is no longer necessarily the case. This study analyses the trend and socio-demographic determinants of HIV awareness and safe sex negotiation among married women in Ethiopia between 2005 and 2011. Data from Ethiopian Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 2005 and in 2011 were analysed. Socio-demographic variables as well as 'survey year' were selected to assess their interaction with selected HIV awareness and safe sex negotiation indicators. Multivariable regression analyses were performed. Odds ratios and confidence intervals were computed. A significant increase in knowledge of HIV and ability to negotiate safer sex occurred between 2005 and 2011 reflecting a positive trend in gender empowerment amongst married Ethiopian women. Some of these advancements were striking, for instance respondents were 3.6 times more likely to have "Heard of AIDS" in 2011 than in 2005. HIV awareness and safer sex negotiation were significantly associated with higher education, higher socioeconomic status, those who had heard of HIV, those of the Orthodox Christian faith, and (to some extent) those living in rural areas. HIV awareness has increased significantly in Ethiopia over the last decade but married women are still disproportionately susceptible to HIV. Community programmes, already effective in Ethiopia, also need to target this vulnerable sub-group of women.


[Intermodal timing cues for audio-visual speech recognition].
The purpose of this study was to investigate the limitations of lip-reading advantages for Japanese young adults by desynchronizing visual and auditory information in speech. In the experiment, audio-visual speech stimuli were presented under the six test conditions: audio-alone, and audio-visually with either 0, 60, 120, 240 or 480 ms of audio delay. The stimuli were the video recordings of a face of a female Japanese speaking long and short Japanese sentences. The intelligibility of the audio-visual stimuli was measured as a function of audio delays in sixteen untrained young subjects. Speech intelligibility under the audio-delay condition of less than 120 ms was significantly better than that under the audio-alone condition. On the other hand, the delay of 120 ms corresponded to the mean mora duration measured for the audio stimuli. The results implied that audio delays of up to 120 ms would not disrupt lip-reading advantage, because visual and auditory information in speech seemed to be integrated on a syllabic time scale. Potential applications of this research include noisy workplace in which a worker must extract relevant speech from all the other competing noises.


Phase and group velocity measurement of ultrasonic guided wavetrains in plates by pulsed TV holography.
A method for the measurement of the phase and group velocities of guided acoustic waves is presented. For this purpose, a unique capability of a self-developed double-pulsed TV holography system to create movies of the propagation of guided acoustic wavetrains is used. Thereby, the experimental visualization of the evolution of Lamb and Rayleigh wavetrains in aluminum plates is shown, including several movies that illustrate different dispersive behaviors. Each movie shows the propagation of a narrowband wavetrain with a central frequency in the order of 1 MHz that consists of a carrier moving with the phase velocity, modulated by an envelope moving with the group velocity. Each snapshot is a two-dimensional map of the instantaneous out-of-plane displacement field of the surface points of the plate, with amplitudes in the order of several nanometers, acquired with the double-pulsed TV holography system. Then, by repeating the acquisition with successively increasing delays between the generation and detection instants, a sequence of maps is obtained from which a movie is composed. The phase and group velocities of the waves are accurately measured from the movies, yielding values that match well with the reference values for the same plates obtained from independent measurements.


Some structural and electronic properties of MX3 (M = Ln, Sc, Y, Ti+, Zr+, Hf+; X = H, Me, Hal, NH2) from DFT calculations.
The geometry of trivalent homoleptic d0 MX3 (X = H, Me, Hal, NH2) complexes for the entire lanthanide family, neutral group 3 and cationic group 4 metal center complexes have been studied with DFT(B3PW91) calculations. The geometrical parameters are in good agreement with the available experimental data. The degree of pyramidalization of the metal is discussed. The hydride and alkyl complexes are strongly pyramidal. In the case of the halide, a pyramidal structure is preferred for fluoride and the systems become increasingly planar with heavier halides. The geometrical trends with X are similar for group 3, group 4 and lanthanide complexes. However group 3 complexes are almost planar, group 4 strongly pyramidal and lanthanide intermediate. The lanthanide contraction is reproduced. A natural bond orbital (NBO) charge analysis is used to rationalize the results. This highlights the similarities and differences in the M-X bonding in the three families of complexes. In all cases, the pyramidalization is related to the participation of the valence d orbitals in the M-X bonds but the M-X bond is mostly ionic in lanthanide and considerably more covalent for the d transition metals. The hydride and alkyl complexes, which have more covalent character than the halide complexes are more pyramidal. In the case of the halide complexes, the fluoride complexes, in which there is the least population of the M d orbitals, are found to be more pyramidal because the increasing covalency with heavier halide stabilizes the planar structure through dpi-ppi interaction. The electronic metal d-p transition of the free ion is shown to be a good indicator of the pyramidalization at M although these values should only be used qualitatively. The strong ionic character of the Ln-X bond gives a rationale for the more important elongation of the beta Si-C bond in La(CH(SiMe3)2)3 than in La(N(SiMe3)2)3. The elongation is shown to be in part due to the negative hyperconjugation of the lone pair used for the Ln-ligand bonds in the beta bonds.


Simultaneous presentation of symptomatic subependymomas in siblings: case reports and review.
Two young adult siblings independently developed similar neurological complaints that included headaches, photophobia, nausea, and intermittent lancinating facial pains. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed fourth ventricular lesions that required surgery in both patients. A pathological review revealed subependymomas with virtually identical histological features. The clinical features and common pathological findings of both patients suggest that familial subependymomas may have a maldevelopmental origin with genetic implications.


Comparison of the Efficacy and Safety of Temporary Spinal Cord Stimulation versus Pulsed Radiofrequency for Postherpetic Neuralgia: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial.
The objective of this study is to compare the safety and effectiveness of the temporary spinal cord stimulation (SCS) versus pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) in treating postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). From September 1, 2019, to May 30, 2020, 44 PHN patients admitted to the Pain Department of the Foshan First People's Hospital, China were enrolled in this study. The patients were randomly assigned to SCS and PRF groups in a ratio of 1 : 1 and were given respective therapy for 8 days. Rash, in all patients, was located in the trunk and extremities of the spinal nerve (C4-L5), and the pain intensity was greater than or equal to 7 points on the VAS scale. Subsequently, we evaluated the visual analogue scale (VAS), efficiency rate (ER), complete remission rate (CRR), daily sleep interference score (SIS), patient health questionnaire (PHQ-9), generalized anxiety disorder assessment (GAD-7), bodily pain (BP), and physical function (PF) sections of the 36-item short-form health survey (SF-36) at the following time points: presurgery, as well as 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postsurgery. The final analysis was performed on 40 patients (n = 20 SCS cohort, and n = 20 PRF cohort). Both cohorts exhibited comparable baseline values (P > 0 : 05). Particularly, they were similar in age, sex, pain duration, involved dermatome, and comorbidity. Among the variables that demonstrated marked improvements from presurgical data to 1 week postsurgery were VAS, ER, CRR, SIS, PHQ-9, GAD-7, as well as BP and PF of the SF-36 in both cohorts. In addition, this improvement persisted for 6 months. There was no complication related to surgery in any of our patients. Based on our analysis, SCS exhibited better efficacy and safety than PRF. This study was prospectively registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100050647).


New [PbBi2O4][Bi2O2]Cl2 and [Pb(n)Bi(10-n)O13][Bi2O2](n)Cl(4+n) series by association of sizable subunits: relationship with Arppe's compound Bi24O31Cl10 and luminescence properties.
Four new mixed lead-bismuth oxychloride compounds have been prepared and characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Their crystal structures are described on the basis of the association of distinct building units found in parent Pb or Bi oxychlorides. The new compound PbBi4O6Cl2 is formed of the stacking of 2D positive [Bi2O2](2+) layers and neutral [PbBi2O4](0) double layers separated by Cl(-) anions. Similar motifs with finite lengths are combined together in the new series [Pb(n)Bi(10-n)O13][Bi2O2](n)Cl(4+n). From the structural viewpoint, it is striking that this family of homologous phases is strongly related to Bi24O31Cl10 well-known as Arppe's compound in which the fluorite-like [Bi2O2]n subunit was increased from n = 1 (mixed Bi/Pb Arppe's compound) to n = 2, 3, and 4 new members. The preparation of the respective powders shows the predominant stability of the n = 2 term which was prepared as a single-phase, while other terms have not been obtained in absence of secondary phases. For n = 2, the impedance spectroscopy shows a conductivity value σ ∼ 10(-3) S cm(-1) at 650 °C and suggests a contribution of Cl(-) in the diffusion process. Most remarkable, PbBi4O6Cl2 as well as [Pb2Bi8O13][Bi2O2]2Cl6 show very bright red emission at low temperature, which could be assigned to Bi(3+) transitions by comparison to BaBi4O6Cl2. The different shapes of the excitation spectra lead to the assumption of a complete Pb-Bi energy transfer.


α2-Antiplasmin: New Insights and Opportunities for Ischemic Stroke.
Thrombotic vascular occlusion is the leading cause of ischemic stroke. High blood levels of α2-antiplasmin (a2AP), an ultrafast, covalent inhibitor of plasmin, have been linked in humans to increased risk of ischemic stroke and failure of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) therapy. Consistent with these observations, a2AP neutralizes the therapeutic benefit of tPA therapy in experimental stroke. In addition, a2AP has deleterious, dose-related effects on ischemic brain injury in the absence of therapy. Experimental therapeutic inactivation of a2AP markedly reduces microvascular thrombosis, ischemic brain injury, brain swelling, brain hemorrhage, and death after thromboembolic stroke. These data provide new insights into the critical importance of a2AP in the pathogenesis of ischemic brain injury and suggest that transiently inactivating a2AP may have therapeutic value in ischemic stroke.


Design and evaluation of surface and adjuvant modified PLGA microspheres for uptake by dendritic cells to improve vaccine responses.
Designing strategies for targeting antigens to dendritic cells is a major goal in vaccinology. Here, PLGA (poly lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres and with several surface modifications that affect to their uptake by human blood primary dendritic cells and monocytes have been evaluated. Higher uptake was found by all the cell types when cationic microspheres (PLGA modified with polyethylene imine) were used. These cationic particles were in vivo evaluated in mice. In addition, MPLA(1) or poly(I:C)(2) and α-GalCer(3) were also encapsulated to address their adjuvant effect. All the microspheres were able to produce humoral immune responses, albeit they were higher for cationic microspheres. Moreover, surface charge seemed to have a role on biasing the immune response; cationic microspheres induced higher IFN-γ levels, indicative of Th1 activation, while unmodified ones mainly triggered IL4 and IL17A release, showing Th2 activation. Thus, we have shown here the potential and versatility of these MS, which may be tailored to needs.


Behavioral avoidance and self-reported fainting symptoms in blood/injury fearful individuals: an experimental test of disgust domain specificity.
This study examined the specificity of disgust in predicting avoidance in blood/injury (BI) phobia. Participants high (n=38) and low (n=46) in BI fear completed measures of disgust across multiple domains and severity of BI-related fear. They then completed three randomly presented behavioral avoidance tasks (BATs) that consisted of exposure to a 15'' severed deer leg (BI task), a live spider (spider task), and a 'contaminated' cookie (cookie task). Fainting symptoms associated with each BAT were recorded as well. When controlling for gender and BI fear group membership, mutilation disgust contributed unique variance to avoidance on the BI task and animal disgust contributed unique variance to avoidance on the spider task. None of the disgust domains contributed unique variance to avoidance on the cookie task. For the high BI fear group, self-reported fainting symptoms were more pronounced during the BI and spider BAT than during the cookie BAT. Although mutilation disgust was significantly associated with self-reported fainting symptoms on the BI task among the high BI fear group, this relationship became nonsignificant when controlling for BI-related fear severity. Implications of the domain specificity of disgust and its relevance for understanding fainting responses in BI phobia are discussed.


Glycogen-rich clear cell carcinoma in the tongue.
The case of a minor salivary gland tumour, arising from the tongue, with nodal metastasis is presented. Biopsy of the tumour and fine-needle aspiration cytology of the neck swelling showed the presence of a clear cell carcinoma with evidence of nodal metastases. A commando operation was performed and the defect was reconstructed using a local tongue flap. The literature review indicated that the neoplasm was rare and its site of occurrence rather unusual.


Identification of a Common Different Gene Expression Signature in Ischemic Cardiomyopathy.
The molecular mechanisms underlying the development of ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) remain poorly understood. Gene expression profiling is helpful to discover the molecular changes taking place in ICM. The aim of this study was to identify the genes that are significantly changed during the development of heart failure caused by ICM. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from 162 control samples and 227 ICM patients. PANTHER was used to perform gene ontology (GO), and Reactome for pathway enrichment analysis. A protein-protein interaction network was established using STRING and Cytoscape. A further validation was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). A total of 255 common DEGs was found. Gene ontology, pathway enrichment, and protein-protein interaction analysis showed that nucleic acid-binding proteins, enzymes, and transcription factors accounted for a great part of the DEGs, while immune system signaling and cytokine signaling displayed the most significant changes. Furthermore, seven hub genes and nine transcription factors were identified. Interestingly, the top five upregulated DEGs were located on chromosome Y, and four of the top five downregulated DEGs were involved in immune and inflammation signaling. Further, the top DEGs were validated by RT-PCR in human samples. Our study explored the possible molecular mechanisms of heart failure caused by ischemic heart disease.


Investigations Into Age-related Changes in the Human Mandible.
While changes in mandibular shape over time are not widely recognized by skeletal biologists, mandibular remodeling and associated changes in gross morphology may result from a number of causes related to mechanical stress such as antemortem tooth loss, changes in bite force, or alterations of masticatory performance. This study investigated the relationship between age-related changes and antemortem tooth loss in adult humans via dry bone measurements. This study examined 10 standard mandibular measurements as well as individual antemortem tooth loss scores using the Eichner Index from a total of 319 female and male individuals with ages ranging from 16 to 99 years. Results indicate that few mandibular measurements exhibited age-related changes, and most were affected by antemortem tooth loss.


Detection of Tetrodotoxins in Puffer Fish by a Self-Assembled Monolayer-Based Immunoassay and Comparison with Surface Plasmon Resonance, LC-MS/MS, and Mouse Bioassay.
The increasing occurrence of puffer fish containing tetrodotoxin (TTX) in the Mediterranean could represent a major food safety risk for European consumers and threaten the fishing industry. The work presented herein describes the development of a new enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (mELISA) based on the immobilization of TTX through dithiol monolayers self-assembled on maleimide plates, which provides an ordered and oriented antigen immobilization and favors the antigen-antibody affinity interaction. The mELISA was found to have a limit of detection (LOD) of TTX of 0.23 mg/kg of puffer fish matrix. The mELISA and a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) immunosensor previously developed were employed to establish the cross-reactivity factors (CRFs) of 5,6,11-trideoxy-TTX, 5,11-deoxy-TTX, 11-nor-TTX-6-ol, and 5,6,11-trideoxy-4-anhydro-TTX, as well as to determine TTX equivalent contents in puffer fish samples. Results obtained by both immunochemical tools were correlated (R(2) = 0.977). The puffer fish samples were also analyzed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and the corresponding CRFs were applied to the individual TTX contents. Results provided by the immunochemical tools, when compared with those obtained by LC-MS/MS, showed a good degree of correlation (R(2) = 0.991 and 0.979 for mELISA and SPR, respectively). The mouse bioassay (MBA) slightly overestimated the CRF adjusted TTX content of samples when compared with the data obtained from the other techniques. The mELISA has been demonstrated to be fit for the purpose for screening samples in monitoring programs and in research activities.