Counting households containing same-sex couples: an inclusive approach.
Though societal acceptance of same-sex unions has grown, resulting in more inclusive government programs and policies and expanded legal protections, analysts remain uncertain about how to identify and enumerate same-sex households. Presently, the counts available of same-sex households in the United States oftentimes disagree. We show that the origins of these conflicting counts can be traced back to definitional and measurement issues in household surveys. In this study, we demonstrate how counts of same-sex households conflict, mislead, and undermine the goal of accurately representing the population of households with same-sex couples. By providing alternative approaches to counting household with same-sex couples we highlight the challenges in enumerating these households. We draw upon three federal household surveys to demonstrate the inconsistencies in the counts of same-sex households and to illustrate our methods. We argue that our proposed methods lead to more comprehensive and credible counts of households containing same-sex couples.


Endothelial intracellular Ca2+ release following monocyte adhesion is required for the transendothelial migration of monocytes.
Although molecular changes accompanying leukocyte extravasation have been investigated intensively, the particular events following leukocyte adhesion and leading to the actual transendothelial migration process remain largely unknown. To characterize intraendothelial signals elicited by leukocyte adhesion and functionally required for their transmigration, we recorded endothelial free cytosolic intracellular Ca(2+)levels ([Ca(2+)]i) during the course of leukocyte adhesion. We show that monocyte and granulocyte adhesion induced Ca(2+)transients in either untreated or TNF-alpha-stimulated microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1). The functional significance of these [Ca(2+)]i rises was demonstrated by treating filter-grown endothelial monolayers with BAPTA/AM. This in traendothelial Ca(2+)chelation left monocyte adhesion basically unaffected, but caused a significant and dose-dependent reduction of the transendothelial migration of monocytes. Granulocyte diapedesis, on the other hand, was hardly modified. Thapsigargin-treatment of endothelial cells almost completely inhibited the transmigration of monocytes suggesting that the necessary Ca(2+)transients depended on a release from intracellular Ca(2+)stores. Our results thus show that the transmigration of monocytes through endothelial monolayers of microvascular origin is favoured by an increase of the intraendothelial [Ca(2+)]i induced by leukocyte adhesion to the endothelial cells.


Discovery of new β-D-galactosidase inhibitors via pharmacophore modeling and QSAR analysis followed by in silico screening.
Glycosidases, including β-D-galactosidase, are involved in a variety of metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, viral or bacterial infections, and cancer. Accordingly, we were prompted to find new β-D-galactosidase inhibitors. Towards this end, we scanned the pharmacophoric space of this enzyme using a set of 41 known inhibitors. Genetic algorithm and multiple linear regression analyses were used to select an optimal combination of pharmacophoric models and physicochemical descriptors to yield self-consistent and predictive quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR). Five pharmacophores emerged in the QSAR equations suggesting the existence of more than one binding mode accessible to ligands within β-D-galactosidase pocket. The successful pharmacophores were complemented with strict shape constraints in an attempt to optimize their receiver-operating characteristic curve profiles. The validity of the QSAR equations and the associated pharmacophoric models were experimentally established by the identification of several β-D-galactosidase inhibitors retrieved via in silico search of two structural databases: the National Cancer Institute list of compounds and our in house built structural database of established drugs and agrochemicals.


Genetics of Type 2 Diabetes: It Matters From Which Parent We Inherit the Risk.
Type 2 diabetes (T2D) results from a co-occurrence of genes and environmental factors. There are more than 120 genetic loci suggested to be associated with T2D, or with glucose and insulin levels in European and multi-ethnic populations. Risk of T2D is higher in the offspring if the mother rather than the father has T2D. Genetically, this can be associated with a unique parent-of-origin (PoO) transmission of risk alleles, and it relates to genetic programming during the intrauterine period, resulting in the inability to increase insulin secretion in response to increased demands imposed by insulin resistance later in life. Such PoO transmission is seen for variants in the KLF14, KCNQ1, GRB10, TCF7L2, THADA, and PEG3 genes. Here we describe T2D susceptibility genes associated with defects in insulin secretion, and thereby risk of overt T2D. This review emphasizes the need to consider distorted parental transmission of risk alleles by exploring the genetic risk of T2D.


Dendritic morphology of pyramidal neurones of the visual cortex of the rat: III. Spine distributions.
The vast majority of excitatory synaptic inputs to neocortical pyramidal cells terminate on dendritic spines, which can thus serve as markers, visible by light microscopy, for the locations of these synapses. The aim of this study was to provide estimates of the total numbers and distributions of spines on the dendrites of individual pyramidal neurones from layers 2/3 and 5 of the visual cortex of the rat. High magnification camera lucida drawings were made of dendritic segments lying close to the plane of section and the number of spines per unit length of dendrite calculated for each. These spine densities were used to estimate the numbers of spines on the other dendritic segments and the results were entered to a computer program that calculated various statistics. Mean total numbers of spines per cell were 7,965 +/- 2,723 (S.D.) for layer 2/3 cells, 8,647 +/- 3,097 for slender layer 5 cells, and 14,932 +/- 3,371 for thick layer 5 cells; these figures are in good agreement with previous stereological estimates. For all cell classes, 70% or more of spines were located on the basal and apical oblique dendrites. The distribution of spines with respect to cortical layers was also explored. Most cells had most of their spines in the layer containing the soma, but there were differences within and between cell classes. Layer 2/3 cells showed a progressive reduction in the proportion of their spines in layers 1 and 2 with increasing depth of their soma in the cortex. Thick layer 5 cells had substantial contributions from layers 4, 3, 2, and especially layer 1. Slender layer 5 cells had small contributions from layers 6 and 4, but relatively few spines in layers 3 and 2. The distribution of spines with path distance from the soma was explored by estimating the numbers of spines contained within a series of concentric shells centred on the soma. All cells showed a rapid increase in the number of spines per shell for the proximal 100 micrograms or so, followed by a sharp decline to approximately 250 micrograms, beyond which the number remained relatively constant until the end of the terminal arbor. In each case, the majority of spines were located within a path length of 150 micrograms from the soma.


Sampling efficiency in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection and chronic active gastritis.
The methods and sampling procedures used in the diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection and chronic active gastritis were evaluated. Five biopsy specimens for bacteriological cultivation and three specimens for histological examination were obtained endoscopically from a defined area of the gastric antral mucosae of 83 patients. An increase in the number of biopsy specimens for cultivation from one to five revealed only one more H. pylori-infected patient. H. pylori was isolated from 31 of 83 patients. Three technically adequate samples for histological examination were obtained from each of 74 patients. Of these 74 patients, chronic active gastritis was diagnosed by demonstration of typical histological changes in all three specimens from each of 20 patients, in two of three specimens from each of 3 patients, and in one of three specimens from 1 patient. The results indicate that one biopsy specimen is sufficient for the isolation of H. pylori, whereas several specimens may be necessary for the histological diagnosis. Chronic active gastritis was found in four patients not infected with H. pylori; on the other hand, H. pylori was isolated from nine patients who showed no signs of chronic active gastritis in any of three samples.


Induction of apoptosis in placentas of pregnant mice exposed to lipopolysaccharides: possible involvement of Fas/Fas ligand system.
To explore the pathogenesis in placental dysfunction and abruptio placentae, we analyzed the occurrence of placental cell apoptosis and the role of Fas and Fas ligand (L) in that process in an inflammatory placental dysfunction model of pregnant mice, using lipopolysaccharides (LPS). In the present study, Day 13 pregnant mice were injected i.p. with LPS (50 microg/kg) or saline as a control, and the placentas were isolated at various time points after the injection. Analysis of the isolated DNA in agarose-gel electrophoresis revealed a typical ladder pattern of bands consisting of 180-200 base pairs (bp), which is regarded as a hallmark of apoptosis. The intensity of the bands increased time-dependently, reaching a maximum level at 12 h after LPS injection. In accord with the biochemical data, histochemical analysis using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) revealed that nuclei positive for double-stranded DNA breaks were found in decidua, diploid trophoblasts in the basal zone, and spongiotrophoblasts. The number of positive nuclei was maximized at 12 h after LPS injection. As a next step, we investigated the possible involvement of Fas and Fas L in the induction of apoptosis of the placental cells after LPS injection. Western blot analysis indicated that LPS increased the expression of Fas and Fas L in the placenta by about 4-fold at 12 h and 18 h, respectively, after injection. The cells expressing Fas and Fas L were identified, using immunohistochemistry and nonradioactive in situ hybridization, as decidua, diploid trophoblasts in the basal zone, and spongiotrophoblasts. Furthermore, when the expression of 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (HNE)-modified proteins was assessed to evaluate the relation of oxidative stress elicited by LPS to the induction of apoptosis, once again decidua, diploid trophoblasts in the basal zone, and spongiotrophoblasts were positive. Therefore, the placental dysfunction by LPS may be brought about by the Fas-mediated apoptosis of various placental cells in a paracrine/autocrine fashion, possibly under the influence of oxidative stress.


Sound perception in plants.
Can plants perceive sound? And what sounds are they likely to be "listening" to? The environment of plants includes many informative sounds, produced by biotic and abiotic sources. An ability to respond to these sounds could thus have a significant adaptive value for plants. We suggest the term phytoacoustics to describe the emerging field exploring sound emission and sound detection in plants, and review the recent studies published on these topics. We describe evidence of plant responses to sounds, varying from changes in gene expression to changes in pathogen resistance and nectar composition. The main focus of this review is the effect of airborne sounds on living plants. We also review work on sound emissions by plants, and plant morphological adaptations to sound. Finally, we discuss the ecological contexts where response to sound would be most advantageous to plants.


[Self-absorption of NO fluorescence induced by two-photon].
The two-photon LIDFS of NO excited with 452.4 nm output of an optical parameter generator and optical parameter amplifier pumped by a Nd: YAG laser was obtained. The vibration frequency and the inharmonic coefficients of the ground electronic state of NO were calculated from the results of the spectral ascription. They are omega"e = (1 904. 7 +/- 7. 3) cm(-1), omega"e chi"e = (14.2 +/- 1.2) cm(-1), and omega"e y"e = -(0.021 8 +/- 0.009 1) cm(-1) respectively. It was found for the first time that the intensity of the spectral lines departs from the Frank-Condon principle due to the self-absorption of NO molecules. The spectral line of A 2sigma (v' = 0) --> X 2 II (v" = 0) transition disappears in the fluorescence spectra. But it appears gradually with decreasing the sample pressure and the distance from the laser-gas interaction volume to the receiving window. All of these provide an important reference for monitoring NO by the technique of laser-induced fluorescence.


Influences of the thalamus on the survival of subplate and cortical plate cells in cultured embryonic mouse brain.
The afferent and efferent connections of the cerebral neocortex develop simultaneously toward the end of embryogenesis. At this stage, the neocortex comprises two main cell-dense layers: the thicker and more superficial cortical plate (future layers 2-6) and the thinner underlying subplate. Many early thalamocortical projections temporarily innervate the subplate before leaving it to locate their ultimate targets in the overlying cortical plate. The subplate then disappears. In this study, we performed in vitro experiments on late embryonic murine brain to test whether the thalamus can influence the survival of cortical plate and subplate cells at this stage. In isolated organotypic cortical explants from embryonic day 19 mice, most of the cells that had formed the subplate died. Coculture with a thalamic explant prevented this loss; coculture with additional cortical or cerebellar explants did not. By contrast, many cells in or destined for the cortical plate survived even in isolated cortical explants; coculture with a thalamic explant did not alter the numbers of these cells that survived. Our results suggest that the thalamus provides trophic support for subplate cells but not for late embryonic cortical plate cells. In vivo, a loss of thalamic-derived trophic support for the subplate late in embryogenesis, consequent on the movement of thalamocortical axons into the cortical plate, may contribute to subplate death.


Characterization of Spanish Olive Virome by High Throughput Sequencing Opens New Insights and Uncertainties.
The use of high throughput sequencing (HTS) for the analysis of Spanish olive trees showing leaf yellowing discoloration, defoliation, and/or decline has provided new insights into the olive viruses present in Spain and has opened discussions about the pros and cons of these technologies for diagnostic purposes. In this study, we report for the first time in Spanish orchards the presence of olive leaf yellowing-associated virus (OLYaV), for which the second full coding sequence has been determined. This virus has also been detected in a putative vector, the psyllid Euphyllura olivina. In addition, the presence in Spain of Olea europaea geminivirus (OEGV), recently reported in Italy, has been confirmed, and the full-length sequence of two isolates was obtained by HTS and Sanger sequencing. These results, as well as the detection of other viral sequences related to olive latent virus 3 (OLV-3) and olive viral satellite RNA, raises questions on the biological significance of the findings, about the requirement of standardization on the interpretation of HTS results, and the necessity of additional tests to confirm the relevance of the HTS detection of viral sequences.


Change in soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) during cisplatin-induced acute renal failure in mice.
Cisplatin is one of the most effective chemotherapeutic agents against various types of cancers; however, it is also associated with nephrotoxicity. Recently, it was reported that inflammatory mechanisms play a key role in the development of nephrotoxicity. Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) have an anti-inflammatory effect and are metabolized by soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH: encoded by EPHX2 gene). Here, we determined the change in sEH activity and EPHX2 expression in renal tissue associated with the development of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Cisplatin administration decreased hydrolase activity accompanied by down-regulation of sEH and EPHX2 expression. The down-regulation occurred prior to the elevation of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) gene expression or at treatment with low dose cisplatin. In addition, a negative correlation was found between EPHX2 expression and renal thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS), and edaravone, a radical scavenger, administration did not down-regulate expression of this gene. The results of this study suggest that cisplatin decreased sEH activity through the down-regulation of sEH and EPHX2 expression, and this down-regulation was involved in a negative feedback loop to protect renal tissue from further damage. Thus, sEH is a potential therapeutic target of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity.


Surgery during holiday periods and prognosis in oesophageal cancer: a population-based nationwide Swedish cohort study.
Previous studies indicate an increased short-term and long-term mortality from major cancer surgery performed towards the end of the working week or during the weekend. We hypothesised that the prognosis after major cancer surgery is also negatively influenced by surgery conducted during holiday periods. Population-based nationwide Swedish cohort study. Patients undergoing oesophagectomy for oesophageal cancer between 1987 and 2010. Among 1820 included patients, 206 (11.3%) and 373 (20.5%) patients were operated on during narrow and wide holiday periods, respectively. Narrow (7 weeks) and wide (14 weeks) Swedish holiday periods. 90-day all-cause, 5-year all-cause and 5-year disease-specific mortality. Narrow holiday period did not increase all-cause 90-day (HR=0.84, 95% CI 0.53 to 1.33), all-cause 5-year (HR=1.01, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.21) or disease-specific 5-year mortality (HR=1.04, 95% CI 0.87 to 1.26). Similarly, wide holiday period did not increase the risk of 90-day (HR=0.79, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.13), all-cause 5-year (HR=0.96, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.1) or disease-specific 5-year mortality (HR=1.03, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.19). No measurable effects of holiday periods on short-term or longer term mortality following surgery for oesophageal cancer were observed in this population-based study, indicating that an adequate surgical experience was maintained during holiday periods.


Attention and cognitive control: unfolding the dichotic listening story.
In this article we present a theoretical approach to cognitive control and attention modulation, as well as review studies related to such a view, using an auditory task based on dichotic presentations of simple consonant-vowel syllables. The reviewed work comes out of joint research efforts by the 'Attention-node' at the 'Nordic Center of Excellence in Cognitive Control'. We suggest a new way of defining degrees of cognitive control based on systematically varying the stimulus intensity of the right or left ear dichotic stimulus, thus parametrically varying the degree of stimulus interference and conflict when assessing the amount of cognitive control necessary to resolve the interference. We first present an overview and review of previous studies using the so-called "forced-attention" dichotic listening paradigm. We then present behavioral and neuroimaging data to explore the suggested cognitive control model, with examples from normal adults, clinical and special ability groups.


Rhinocerebral maxillary mucormycosis: A palatal ulcer.
Mucormycosis, caused by saprophytic fungi of the order Mucorales of the class zygomycetes, is a rare opportunistic fungal infection, which has a rapidly progressive and fulminant course with fatal outcome. Mucormycosis can result in an acute, rapidly advancing and occasionally fatal disease caused by different fungi typically found in the soil in association with decaying organic matter such as leaves, compost piles, or bread molds. Mucormycosis is not contagious and does not spread from person to person. We report a case of palatal perforation by rhino-maxillary mucormycosis in an immunocompromised patient. The patient was treated and had a good prognosis for such a fatal condition.


Osmoregulation in Cotton in Response to Water Stress : II. LEAF CARBOHYDRATE STATUS IN RELATION TO OSMOTIC ADJUSTMENT.
Diurnal changes in tissue water potential components, photosynthesis, and specific leaf carbohydrates were examined in water stress-adapted and nonadapted cotton plants. Adapted plants exhibited lower daily minimum leaf water potentials and maintained turgor to lower leaf water potentials than nonadapted plants. Because of this turgor maintenance, photosynthesis continued in adapted plants at leaf water potentials that inhibited photosynthesis in nonadapted plants. Adapted plants exhibited lower rates of photosynthesis than did nonadapted plants when leaves were fully turgid. The inhibition was not due to stomatal restriction of CO(2) diffusion because leaf conductances of nonadapted and adapted leaves were similar at high leaf water potentials.Adapted plants had more glucose than nonadapted plants, the pattern of glucose accumulation depending on leaf age. Sucrose accumulation in response to decreasing water potential also depended on leaf age. Adapted young leaves exported sucrose, whereas nonadapted leaves of the same age accumulated sucrose at the same leaf water potential. Older leaves of both adapted and nonadapted plants accumulated sucrose as plants became stressed during the day.Old, fully expanded leaves from adapted plants contained up to 5 times more starch than did nonadapted leaves, although the kinetics of starch accumulation and degradation were similar in adapted and nonadapted leaves. In young leaves, adaptation did not affect starch accumulation.When adapted plants were destarched by 80 hours darkness, they became "de-adapted" plants. In nonadapted and de-adapted plants, photosynthesis, leaf conductance, and leaf turgor responded identically to declining leaf water potentials. The data implicate starch in the regulation at cellular nonosmotic volume and, thus, osmotic adjustment.


Phosphodiesterase inhibitors control A172 human glioblastoma cell death through cAMP-mediated activation of protein kinase A and Epac1/Rap1 pathways.
We investigated whether cAMP-mediated protein kinase A(PKA) and Epac1/Rap1 pathways differentially affect brain tumor cell death using 4-(3-cyclopentyloxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-2-pyrrolidone(rolipram), specific phosphodiesterase type IV(PDE IV) inhibitor. A172 and U87MG human glioblastoma cells were used. Percentage of cell survival was determined by MTT assay. PKA and Epac1/Rap1 activation was determined by western blotting and pull-down assay, respectively. Cell cycle and hypodiploid cell formation were assessed by flow cytometry analysis. Non-specific PDE inhibitors, isobutylmethylxanthine(IBMX) and theophylline reduce survival percentage of A172 and U87MG cells. The expression of PDE4A and PDE4B was detected in A172 and U87MG cells. Rolipram-treated A172 or U87MG cell survival was lower in the presence of forskolin, adenylate cyclase activator, than that in its absence. Co-treatment with rolipram and forskolin also enhanced CREB phosphorylation on serine 133 that was inhibited by H-89, PKA inhibitor and cAMP-responsive guanine nucleotide exchange factor 1(Epac1), a Rap GDP exchange factor-mediated Rap1 activity in A172 cells. When A172 cells were treated with cell-permeable dibutyryl-cAMP(dbcAMP), PKA activator or 8-(4-chloro-phenylthio)-2'-O-methyladenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate(CPT), Epac1 activator, basal level of cell death was increased and cell cycle was arrested at the phase of G2/M. Rolipram-induced A172 cell death was also increased by the co-treatment with dbcAMP or CPT, but it was inhibited by the pre-treatment with H-89. These findings demonstrate that PKA and Epac1/Rap1 pathways could cooperatively play a role in rolipram-induced brain tumor cell death. It suggests that rolipram might regulate glioblastoma cell density through dual pathways of PKA- and Epac1/Rap1-mediated cell death and cell cycle arrest.


Implementing an evidence-based fall prevention program in an outpatient clinical setting.
To investigate the dissemination potential of a Tai Ji Quan-based program, previously shown to be efficacious for reducing risk of falls in older adults, through outpatient clinical settings. A single-group pre/post design in which participants attended a twice-weekly Tai Ji Quan training program for 24 weeks. Communities in Lane County, Oregon. Independently living individuals (N=379) aged 65 and older. Using the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance framework, the primary outcome was the proportion of participating healthcare providers who made referrals. Secondary outcomes were the proportion of referred individuals agreeing to participate and enrolling in the program, and measures of program implementation, maintenance, and effectiveness (on measures of falls, balance, gait, physical performance, and balance efficacy). Of the 252 providers invited to participate, 157 made referrals (62% adoption rate). Of 564 individuals referred, 379 (67% reach) enrolled in the program, which was successfully implemented in senior and community centers with good fidelity, 283 completed the program (75% retention), and 212 of these attended 75% or more of the 48 sessions. Participants reported a reduction in falls, with an incidence rate of 0.13 falls per person-month, and showed significant improvement from baseline in all outcome measures. A 3-month postintervention follow-up indicated encouraging levels of program maintenance among providers, participants, and community centers. Healthcare providers successfully implemented a protocol to refer individuals at risk of falling to a Tai Ji Quan-based program. The evidence-based program appears readily scalable and exportable, with potential for substantial clinical and public health effect.


Targeting the epigenome in the treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Epigenetic modification of gene expression by methylation of DNA and various post-translational modifications of histones may affect the expression of multiple inflammatory genes. Acetylation of histones by histone acetyltransferases activates inflammatory genes, whereas histone deacetylation results in inflammatory gene repression. Corticosteroids exert their antiinflammatory effects partly by inducing acetylation of antiinflammatory genes, but mainly by recruiting histone deacetylase-2 (HDAC2) to activated inflammatory genes. HDAC2 deacetylates acetylated glucocorticoid receptors so that they can suppress activated inflammatory genes in asthma. In chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), there is resistance to the antiinflammatory actions of corticosteroids, which is explained by reduced activity and expression of HDAC2. This can be reversed by a plasmid vector, which restores HDAC2 levels, but may also be achieved by low concentrations of theophylline. Oxidative stress causes corticosteroid resistance by reducing HDAC2 activity and expression by activation of phosphoinositide-3-kinase-delta, resulting in HDAC2 phosphorylation via a cascade of kinases. Theophylline reverses corticosteroid resistance by directly inhibiting oxidant-activated PI3Kdelta and is mimicked by PI3Kdelta knockout or by selective inhibitors. Other treatments may also interact in this pathway, making it possible to reverse corticosteroid resistance in patients with COPD, as well as in smokers with asthma and some patients with severe asthma in whom similar mechanisms operate. Other histone modifications, including methylation, tyrosine nitration, and ubiquitination may also affect histone function and inflammatory gene expression, and better understanding of these epigenetic pathways could led to novel antiinflammatory therapies, particularly in corticosteroid-resistant inflammation.


Congenital Aortic Vascular Ring: In-Utero Sonographic Assessment of Tracheal Patency and Postnatal Outcome.
Congenital aortic vascular ring may present after birth with variable degrees of respiratory distress due to tracheal compression. The aim of this study was to prospectively evaluate in utero tracheal patency in correlation with postnatal outcome. During an eight-year period, fetuses with aortic arch abnormality encircling the trachea and forming a complete ring were recruited for the study. Tracheal patency was classified as: no compression, partial compression, or complete compression. Postnatal MRI/CTangio studies were performed and outcome data was retrospectively analyzed from the medical records. Among the 46 fetuses recruited to the study, 38 had right aortic arch (RAA), and 8 presented with double aortic arch (DAA). In the RAA group 35 (92.1 %) of the fetuses presented no compression and 34 (97.1 %) of them were asymptomatic in the long-term follow-up. Three fetuses (7.9 %) in this group presented in utero compression: one was terminated at 16 weeks of gestation due to associated ominous findings, and the other two had mild respiratory symptoms around 12 months of age and underwent surgery with a good outcome. In the DAA group, all fetuses presented in utero with tracheal compression. Seven showed partial and one complete compression. Among the seven with partial compression, six were symptomatic and underwent surgery. The case with severe airway occlusion had emergency tube insertion in the delivery room and underwent surgery at 7 days but died from severe respiratory complications. This is the first study to evaluate in utero tracheal patency in cases with vascular ring. It allows better prenatal and postnatal workup and follow-up including potentially life-threatening respiratory failure.


A novel sea urchin nuclear receptor encoded by alternatively spliced maternal RNAs.
Screening of a genomic library from the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus with a human COUP-TF I cDNA probe revealed the presence of a novel gene member of the steroid-thyroid-retinoic acid receptor superfamily, which was named SpSHR2 (S. purpuratus Steroid Hormone Receptor 2). Sequence analysis of the isolated genomic clone revealed that the DNA binding domain of this orphan receptor is most homologous to the human TR2 receptor. Using this sea urchin genomic fragment as probe, a S. purpuratus embryonic cDNA library was screened and two distinct but homologous cDNA clones were isolated. The two cDNAs encode the same DNA binding domain as the SpSHR2 gene and carry an almost identical 3'-untranslated sequence. One of the clones, however, is missing an entire region of about 1100 nt which includes the putative ligand binding domain. Genomic DNA hybridization suggests that SpSHR2 is a single-copy gene in the S. purpuratus genome. Exon skipping during splicing of a single primary transcript appears to be the reason for the differently sized mRNAs. RNA blot hybridization results suggest that SpSHR2 transcripts are stored as maternal RNA in the egg and are not detected beyond the blastula stage. In vitro transcription and translation of the full-length cDNA produced a polypeptide which specifically binds to the hormone response element in the 5'-flanking region of the sea urchin actin CyIIIb gene. In vivo labeling of proteins synthesized by cleavage stage embryos followed by immune precipitation of the SpSHR2 protein using specific antibodies reveals that the maternal SpSHR2 mRNA is being translated during early embryonic development.


Heart rate turbulence and variability in patients with ventricular arrhythmias.
To evaluate the changes in autonomic neural control mechanisms before malignant ventricular arrhythmias, we measured heart rate variability (HRV) and heart rate turbulence (HRT) in patients with ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation (Group I; n=6), non sustained ventricular tachycardia (Group II; n=32), frequent premature ventricular beats (Group III; n=26) and with ICD implantation (Group IV; n=11). Time domain parameters of HRV and turbulence onset (TO) and slope (TS) were calculated on 24 hour Holter recordings. Normal values were: SDNN > 70 msec for HRV, TO <0% and TS >2.5 msec/RR-I for HRT. Whereas SDNN was within normal range and similar in all study groups, HRT parameters were significantly different in patients who experienced VT/VF during Holter recording. Abnormal TO and/or TS were present in 100% of Group I patients and only in about 50% of Group II and IV. On the contrary, normal HRT parameters were present in 40-70% of Group II, III and IV patients and none of Group I. These data suggest that HRT analysis is more suitable than HRV to detect those transient alterations in autonomic control mechanisms that are likely to play a major trigger role in the genesis of malignant cardiac arrhythmias.


Auditory and visual impairments in patients with blast-related traumatic brain injury: Effect of dual sensory impairment on Functional Independence Measure.
The frequencies of hearing impairment (HI), vision impairment (VI), or dual (hearing and vision) sensory impairment (DSI) in patients with blast-related traumatic brain injury (TBI) and their effects on functional recovery are not well documented. In this preliminary study of 175 patients admitted to a Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, we completed hearing and vision examinations and obtained Functional Independence Measure (FIM) scores at admission and discharge for 62 patients with blast-related TBI. We diagnosed HI only, VI only, and DSI in 19%, 34%, and 32% of patients, respectively. Only 15% of the patients had no sensory impairment in either auditory or visual modality. An analysis of variance showed a group difference for the total and motor FIM scores at discharge (p < 0.04). Regression model analyses demonstrated that DSI significantly contributed to reduced gain in total ( t = -2.25) and motor ( t = -2.50) FIM scores ( p < 0.05). Understanding the long-term consequences of sensory impairments in the functional recovery of patients with blast-related TBI requires further research.


The interplay between sharing behavior and beliefs about others in children during dictator games.
Previous studies in adults demonstrated that beliefs and sharing decisions in social scenarios are closely related. However, to date, little is known about the development of this relationship in children. By using a modified dictator game, we assessed sharing behavior and beliefs about others in children between 3 and 12 years old. We performed four studies (N = 376) aimed to assess whether decisions were related to beliefs (Studies 1 and 2) and whether information about the recipient's forced sharing behavior would shape decisions and beliefs (Studies 3 and 4). Results of Studies 1 and 2 showed that beliefs about others' generosity were related to children's sharing behavior. In Studies 3 and 4, we found that only children older than 9 years shared more pieces of candy when they knew that the recipient would be forced to share (cooperative context) than when they knew that the recipient would be forced not to share (noncooperative context). Besides, children older than 6 years did not modify their beliefs about others' generosity according to these social contexts. These results suggest that normative or preconceived beliefs about the functioning of the social world may guide social behavior in children.


[Optimizing ruminant feed rations from the physiological aspect with FURAT, a personal computer program].
Health disorders caused by feeding are a common problem in cattle keeping. For this reason the personal computer program, FURAT, was developed for the calculation and optimization of ruminant feed rations with respect to physiological aspects. With this program, weighed feed rations selected from the feedstuff on the standard list or from a self-drawn up feedstuff list can be tested for their content of various nutrients and compared with the requirements of the animals to be fed. Subsequently in an optimization program using the same feedstuff rations can be worked out for various performance categories ensuring the best possible feeding from the health aspect. With a free choice within a feed range and taking into account the physiological limits of the rumen (maximum compound intake, minimum raw fiber amount in the dry matter, minimum structure in the raw fiber, maximum raw fat in the dry matter) the ration is calculated to achieve a balanced protein-energy ratio. One of the two main nutrients--protein or energy--must amount exactly to the target value in the ration, and the other has to be as close as possible to its target value. From among up to 12 different feedstuff the computer will choose the optimal ration which can be printed with a precise indication of all parameters. The rations worked out for the various performance categories are stored and, at the end of the program, are printed in short form in a letter addressed to the farmer that also lists necessary mineral supplements.


An association between neutrophils and immunoglobulin free light chains in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Neutrophils are key players in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and increased numbers of neutrophils are present in sputum and lung tissue of patients with COPD. Interestingly, immunoglobulin free light chains (IgLC) are able to prolong the life of neutrophils; therefore, IgLC may contribute to the chronic state of inflammation. In this study, the relation between IgLC and COPD has been investigated. We investigated the presence of IgLC in different murine lung emphysema models. IgLC levels in serum from mice and patients with COPD were examined by Western blot analysis and ELISA, respectively. IgLC levels in lung tissue were determined by immunohistochemistry. Fluorescence-activated cell sorter and immunofluorescent analysis were used to detect binding between IgLC and human neutrophils. Interleukin-8 (CXCL8) release by neutrophils after IgLC incubation was measured by ELISA. The effect of F991, an IgLC antagonist, was examined on the neutrophil influx in murine lungs after 5 days of smoke exposure. Increased levels of IgLC in serum of cigarette smoke-exposed and cigarette smoke extract-treated mice compared with control mice were observed. Patients with COPD showed increased serum IgLC and expression of IgLC in lung tissue compared with healthy volunteers. Interestingly, IgLC bound to neutrophils and activated neutrophils to release CXCL8. F991 inhibited the IgLC binding to neutrophils and reduced the smoke-induced neutrophil influx in murine lungs after smoke exposure. This study describes for the first time an association between neutrophils and IgLC in the pathophysiology of COPD, which could open new avenues to targeted treatment of this chronic disease.


Ammonia Assimilation in Alnus glutinosa and Glycine max: SHORT-TERM STUDIES USING [N]AMMONIUM.
The pattern of assimilation of NH(4) (+) by Alnus glutinosa, a N(2)-fixing, nonleguminous angiosperm, was examined. Detached nodules, roots, and nodulated roots of intact plants were exposed to (13)NH(4) (+) for up to 15 minutes. Glutamine was the most highly labeled compound at all times; the only other compound labeled significantly was glutamate. Similar results were obtained after incubating soybean (L. merr) nodules and roots with (13)NH(4) (+). These observations and the results of pulse-labeling and inhibitor studies with nodules of Alnus were distinctly different from those predicted for the assimilation of NH(4) (+) via glutamine synthetase and glutamate synthase and suggest that glutamate dehydrogenase may play a major role in the assimilation of exogenously supplied NH(4) (+).


The Predictive Role of Parathyroid Hormone for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease following Bariatric Surgery.
Morbid obesity is frequently complicated by chronic liver diseases, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and fibrosis. Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is found to be elevated in morbid obesity due to the defective hepatic metabolism of vitamin D. Bariatric surgery is performed to help patients with BMI>40 kg/m2 to effectively lose weight, particularly in patients with obesity who are afflicted with complications such as NAFLD/NASH. This study aimed to evaluate the PTH level as a predictor of hepatic function in individuals with morbid obesity who have undergone bariatric surgery. Ninety subjects with morbid obesity referred for Roux en-Y gastric bypass surgery were recruited. After IRB approval, demographic profiles, anthropometric factors, liver biopsy, and laboratory tests were obtained. The two-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) technique was applied to assess hepatic stiffness. A significant reduction occurred six months after bariatric surgery in the anthropometric indices (p < 0.001), hepatic elasticity (p=0.002), alanine aminotransferase (p < 0.001), serum alkaline phosphatase (p < 0.001), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) (p < 0.001), and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score (NFS) (p < 0.001). Serum PTH concentration was not predictive of postsurgical liver fibrosis and steatosis at six months but could predict weight loss success rate. No significant alteration in serum PTH levels was observed between presurgical vs. postsurgical time points. A significant reduction was observed in the anthropometric parameters, liver enzymes, and hepatic elasticity after bariatric surgery. No significant effect was found on PTH levels.


Suppression of hematopoietic cell kinase ameliorates the bone destruction associated with inflammation.
Objectives: To investigate the role of non-receptor tyrosine kinases (NRTKs) in inflammation-induced osteoclastogenesis.Methods: Microarray analyses of global mRNA expression during receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL) and RANKL plus tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced osteoclast differentiation were performed. The inhibitory effect on TNF-α-induced osteoclast differentiation of A-419259, a potent inhibitor of hematopoietic cell kinase (Hck), was examined. The in vivo therapeutic effect of A-419259 treatment on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory bone destruction was evaluated.Results: We confirmed that Hck expression was selectively increased among the NRTKs during the osteoclast differentiation induced by RANKL and TNF-α, but not by RANKL alone. RANKL and TNF-α-induced osteoclast differentiation and they were dose-dependently inhibited by A-419259 treatment through inhibition of the expression of key regulators of osteoclastogenesis, including Prdm1 and Nfatc1. Notably, LPS-induced inflammatory bone loss in murine calvarial bones was ameliorated by the administration of A-419259.Conclusions: Our results demonstrate that the administration of A-419259 is effective for the inhibition of osteoclast differentiation induced by TNF-α in the presence of RANKL. Therefore, an inhibitor of Hck may be useful as a potent anti-osteoclastogenic agent for the treatment of inflammatory bone destruction.


Size and shape of the sella turcica in subjects with Down syndrome.
To study size and shape of the sella turcica in individuals with Down syndrome (DS) and compare them to matched controls without the syndrome. The Department of Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. Lateral cephalograms of sixty DS individuals and sixty controls were obtained with an age range of 12-22 years. The length, depth, and diameter of the sella turcica were calculated. In addition, the shape of the sella turcica was described as either normal or with aberrations such as; oblique anterior wall, sella turcica bridging, extremely low sella turcica, irregularity in the posterior part of the dorsum sella, and pyramidal shape of the dorsum sella. An increase in the diameter and depth of sella turcica was found more frequently in DS group as compared to controls (P < 0.05 and P < 0.0001, respectively). When the shape of the sella turcica was examined, a normal sella turcica shape was found less often in DS (P < 0.05). The most common abnormality detected was an oblique anterior wall (P < 0.05). A sella turcica bridge, irregularity in the posterior wall, and a pyramidal shape of sella turcica were present simultaneously in some individuals with DS (P < 0.01). The sella turcica in DS differs in size and morphology when compared to individuals without the syndrome. The diameter and depth of the sella turcica in DS are larger than controls, with a tendency toward more abnormalities in the shape of sella turcica.


Treatment of superior vena cava thrombosis with recombinant tissue type plasminogen activator.
Thrombotic occlusion of the superior vena cava is an uncommon but serious complication of chronic indwelling venous catheters. Several reports have shown thrombolytic therapy with intravenous streptokinase or urokinase to be effective in the treatment of this condition. We report a case of superior vena cava thrombosis in a 53-year-old woman receiving chemotherapy for breast carcinoma through a subcutaneously implanted venous access catheter who was successfully treated with peripheral infusion of recombinant tissue type plasminogen activator (rtPA).


Metoclopramide exaggerates stress-induced tachycardia in pregnant sheep.
Metoclopramide is often administered to hasten gastric emptying prior to cesarean section and during labor, but has also been demonstrated to increase catecholamine release during stress and to increase heart rate and blood pressure in nonpregnant humans. The purpose of this study was to examine the maternal and fetal effects of metoclopramide during maternal stress in pregnant ewes. After baseline measures, eight ewes were randomly allocated to receive either intravenous metoclopramide, 10 mg, or saline, followed in 10 min by nonpainful stress to increase mean arterial pressure 40%-45% for 30 s. At least 2 days later, the ewes received the alternate treatment. Metoclopramide, but not saline, increased resting maternal heart rate. In the 10 min after maternal stress, maternal heart rate was increased more after metoclopramide than after saline treatment, whereas maternal blood pressure, uterine blood flow, and fetal hemodynamic variables and arterial blood gas tensions did not differ between the two treatments. Whereas these results are not consistent with a generalized increase in sympathetic nervous system tone after a single dose of metoclopramide, they do suggest that metoclopramide may exaggerate tachycardia after stress, encountered frequently both during and after cesarean section.


Sociodemographic profile of normal EEG-dissociative disorder (convulsion) patients.
Few Indian studies have explored the sociodemographic variables of dissociative disorder (convulsion), which may be dramatic in presentation causing significant socio-economical and emotional difficulties to patients and care-givers. This prospective study hopes to explore the sociodemographic variables in normal EEG-disssociative disorder (convulsion). The study was conducted from January 2004 to September 2004 in the psychiatry outpatients department (OPD) of Nil Ratan Sircar Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata. After screening by history, astute clinical examination and application of predetermined inclusion and exclusion criterion, 41/52 patients were finally selected for the study. Written consent was taken from all the patients. They were then evaluated to elicit necessary information required in the semistructured proforma. Data were analysed by using appropriate statistical method ie, Z-test. The present study suggested that dissociative disorder (convulsion) predominantly affected females, mostly housewives and students, coming from rural, low socio-economic conditions with poor educational background. Majority of the patients presented acutely. Depressive disorder was the most common comorbid psychiatric abnormality. The findings of the present study were in tune with the findings of the few earlier studies available.


Appendages and gene regulatory networks: Lessons from the limbless.
Among squamate reptiles, dozens of lineages have independently evolved complete or partial limb reduction. This remarkable convergence of limbless and limb-reduced phenotypes provides multiple natural replicates of different ages to explore the evolution and development of the vertebrate limb and the gene regulatory network that controls its formation. The most successful and best known of the limb-reduced squamates are snakes, which evolved a limb-reduced body form more than 100 million years ago. Recent studies have revealed the unexpected finding that many ancient limb enhancers are conserved in the genomes of snakes. Analyses in limbed animals show that many of these limb enhancers are also active during development of the phallus, suggesting that these enhancers may have been retained in snakes due their importance in regulating transcription in the external genitalia. This hypothesis is substantiated by functional tests of snake enhancers, which demonstrate that snake enhancer elements have lost limb function while retaining genital enhancer function. The large degree of overlap in the gene regulatory networks deployed during limb and phallus development may act to constrain the divergence of shared gene network components and the evolution of appendage morphology. Future studies will reveal whether limb regulatory elements have undergone similar functional changes in other lineages of limb-reduced squamates.


Children with Tourette's syndrome may suffer immunoglobulin A dysgammaglobulinemia: preliminary report.
Postinfectious autoimmunity has been implicated in Tourette's syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder (TS/OCD), whereas increased frequency of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) in TS/OCD patients suggests immune deficiency. We hypothesized that antineuronal antibodies may be elevated in patients (reflecting autoimmune processes), and levels of total immunoglobulins (Igs) may be decreased (reflecting immune deficiency). We analyzed plasma of TS/OCD patients (n = 24) and healthy age- and sex-matched control subjects (n = 22) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the levels of total and specific IgG, IgM, and IgA against antigens previously identified in multiple sclerosis (myelin basic protein and myelin-associated glycoprotein) and Sydenham's chorea (ganglioside-GM1, lysoganglioside, and tubulin). Total IgA was decreased in TS/OCD patients (median 115 mg/100 mL) compared with control subjects (141 mg/100 mL; p = .02). Specific IgA against all antigens, except tubulin were also decreased in the patients (MPB 0 vs. 13 [ELISA units [EU]; myelin-associated glycoprotein 29 vs. 44 EU, p = .04; ganglioside GM1 21 vs. 35 EU, p = .01; lysoganglioside 44 vs. 56 EU, p = .03; tubulin 44 vs. 44 EU, p = .8). The levels of total IgA and anti-myelin basic protein (MBP) IgA were significantly lower in the subgroup of pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorder associated with Streptococcus (PANDAS) cases (n = 10) than in non-PANDAS cases (n = 9; total IgA 98 mg/100 mL vs. 133 mg/mL, p = .03; anti-MBP IgA 1 vs. 6 EU, p = .03) or healthy control subjects (total IgA 141 mg/100 mL, p = .02; anti-MBP IgA 13 EU, p = .005). At least some TS/OCD patients may suffer IgA dysgammaglobulinemia, possibly rendering the children more prone to URTI.


Modulation of murine immunological responses by salivary gland extract of Simulium vittatum (Diptera: Simuliidae).
The influence of Simulium vittatum Zetterstedt salivary gland extract on several immunological mechanisms was investigated in murine model hosts (laboratory mice). These mechanisms included the expression of major histocompatibility complex class II cell surface molecules, the in vitro mitogen responsiveness of lymphoid cells, and the antibody responses to heterologous foreign antigens (sheep erythrocytes). Experiments were designed to determine the influence of salivary gland extract following in vivo inoculation or in vitro inclusion in cell culture. In vivo inoculation of salivary gland extract reduced the percentage of Ia+ cells in spleen cell populations, although this difference was ameliorated by a 2 d in vitro culture period, regardless of whether salivary gland extract was included in culture. Salivary gland extract had no effect on Ia expression by cells derived from regional lymph nodes or the skin (epidermis). In vivo inoculation with salivary gland extract did not affect the responsiveness of splenic lymphocytes to mitogens, whereas in vitro exposure to salivary gland extract reduced both T and B cell mitogenesis. Finally, antibody responses to sheep erythrocytes were enhanced if salivary gland extract was included as a coinoculant, although this was expressed only at the systemic level regardless of the route of antigen delivery. In light of these results, immunomodulatory functions of black fly saliva are postulated; they are operative at different levels on different subcompartments of the immune system, possibly via cytokine modulation.


Patterns of mortality in modern stroke care
Background Stroke is a leading cause of death. We looked at the causes (direct and indirect) of in-hospital mortality in a modern stroke unit over a two-year period. Methods We reviewed medical charts of stroke deaths in hospital from 2014-2015 inclusive. Data on stroke type, aetiology, age, length of stay, comorbidities, and documented cause of death were recorded. All patients were included. Results 518 patients were admitted acutely to the stroke service. Overall death rate was 7.5% (n=39). Of fatal strokes 29 (74%) were ischaemic. Average age 78.6 years. Mean survival was 26.4 days (range 1-154). 19 (49%) patients had atrial fibrillation. Forty-nine percent of deaths were due to pneumonia, and 33% were due to raised intracranial pressure. Discussion Mortality rate in our stroke service has decreased from 15% in 1997, and now appears dichotomised into early Secondary Stroke Related Cerebral Events (SSRCEs) and later infections.


The elderly patient: no reason to worry!?
In December 2013, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has placed Switzerland for the first time at the top of the list of countries' general population life ex- pectancy. The augmenting life expectancy and demographic changes are leading to an increase in the number of older people who are dependent on care (Höpflinger & Hugentobler 2003, Höpflinger et al. 2011). Multimorbidity and the resulting polypharmacy have inevitable consequences for the oral health and present a challenge for dentists (Fried et al. 2001). As dental treatment for multimorbid and bedridden adults can be quite complex, it seems necessary also from a dental perspective to detect age-related defi- ciencies as early as possible. If depression, dementia or malnutrition is suspected, an immediate referral to a specialist physician is recommended for an in-depth assessment and treatment. For older adults in particular, dental measures alone do not necessarily lead to an improvement in well-being and nutritional state.


Physical Processes in Polymeric Filters Used for Dialysis.
The key physical processes in polymeric filters used for the blood purification include transport across the capillary wall and the interaction of blood cells with the polymer membrane surface. Theoretical modeling of membrane transport is an important tool which provides researchers with a quantification of the complex phenomena involved in dialysis. In the paper, we present a dense review of the most successful theoretical approaches to the description of transport across the polymeric membrane wall as well as the cell⁻polymer surface interaction, and refer to the corresponding experimental methods while studying these phenomena in dialyzing filters.


Modern oral contraceptive use and benign liver tumors: the German Benign Liver Tumor Case-Control Study.
To analyze the association between oral contraceptive use and the risk of benign liver tumors. Two parallel case-control studies on hepatocellular adenoma and focal nodular hyperplasia. Collaborative study of 15 German liver centers. Cases defined by histology and compared with population controls. Fifty-one hepatocellular adenoma and 143 focal nodular hyperplasia cases (women) were recruited between 1990 and 1997, and compared to 240 population controls with a recent abdominal imaging test. The frequency age-matched odds ratio was 1.25 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.37-4.22) and 1.96 (95% CI, 0.85-4.57) for hepatocellular adenoma and focal nodular hyperplasia, respectively. For hepatocellular adenoma, there was neither a significantly increased risk with longer duration of oral contraceptive use, nor an association with time since first or last use. For focal nodular hyperplasia, however, a slightly increased odds ratio was found with longer duration of use and more recent last use. There is little evidence for an increased risk for hepatocellular adenoma in women using modern oral contraceptives. If there is a risk not detected by the limited study size, hepatocellular adenoma is an extremely rare, and focal nodular hyperplasia a rare, adverse effect potentially associated with long-term oral contraceptive use and likely to be without public health importance.


Loss of expression of BAP1 is very rare in non-small cell lung carcinoma.
Germline mutations of the BAP1 gene have been implicated in a cancer predisposition syndrome which includes mesothelioma, uveal melanoma, cutaneous melanocytic lesions, renal cell carcinoma, and possibly other malignancies. Double hit inactivation of BAP1 with subsequent loss of expression of the BAP1 protein also occurs in approximately 50% of mesotheliomas. The link between BAP1 mutation and lung cancer is yet to be fully explored. We sought to assess BAP1 expression in a large cohort of lung cancers undergoing surgery with curative intent. We searched the Anatomical Pathology database of our institution for lung cancer patients undergoing surgery with curative intent between 2000 and 2010. Immunohistochemistry for BAP1 was then performed in tissue microarray format. Our cohort included 257 lung cancer patients, of which 155 (60%) were adenocarcinomas and 72 (28%) were squamous cell carcinomas, with no other subtype comprising more than 3%. BAP1 loss of expression was found in only one lung cancer. We conclude that BAP1 mutation occurs very infrequently (0.4%) in non-small cell lung cancer. Given that the pathological differential diagnosis between lung carcinoma and mesothelioma may sometimes be difficult, this finding increases the specificity of loss of expression for BAP1 for the diagnosis of mesothelioma.


[Intra-arterial CDDP and CDDP plus THP-ADM therapy for bladder cancer].
From 1983 to 1988, 20 patients (group A: 3 stage T1, 4 stage T2 and 13 stage T3-4 tumors) with bladder cancer were treated with single injection of CDDP (150-200 mg/body), and 28 patients (group B: 4 stage T1, 9 stage T2 and 15 stage T3-4 tumors) were treated twice with injection of CDDP (100 mg/m2) and THP-ADM (40 mg/m2) mixture from the internal iliac artery. As a rule, one half of the agents was equally given for the both sides, while 75% dose was given to the tumor side to the case with unilateral localized tumors. Then total or partial cystectomy was followed. When residual invasive cancer was pathologically present in operative specimens, patients underwent three to six courses of adjuvant chemotherapy including CDDP. Clinical response rate (CR+PR) to the intra-arterial chemotherapy in group A and B were 39% and 62%, respectively. Pathological response rate (grade 3 and grade 4 by Oboshi and Shimozato classification) were 17% in both group. After total cystectomy, the 2-year cancer specific survival rates of 17 patients in group A and 22 patients in group B were 75% and 59%, respectively. The 2-year cancer specific survival rates of 8 patients in group A and 10 patients in group B with pT3b were 63% and 54%, respectively. No cancer death occurred thereafter in the patients of group A during another three years. The 3-year cancer specific survival rate of 9 patients after partial cystectomy (3 in group A, 6 in group B) was 86%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Public-academic partnerships: a program to improve the quality of antipsychotic prescribing in a community mental health system.
State mental health authorities can use public-academic partnerships to create professional roles in which leaders can track trends, identify problems, and carry out quality improvement projects to address key issues. Leaders with positions in both academic institutions and state mental health authorities ensure access to resources, technical expertise, and key relationships to improve quality. The authors describe a public-academic partnership in New Hampshire and a quality improvement program it carried out. The program encourages providers at community mental health centers to adopt prescribing practices that limit the cardiometabolic side effects of antipsychotic medicines.


Psychosocial considerations about children and radiological events.
Children are identified as a vulnerable population in the case of radiological events because of their increased physical sensitivity to radiation and its impact on critical development stages. Using a comprehensive integrated risk framework, psychosocial risk protective factors are discussed in a social ecology paradigm. Children have been shown to be both vulnerable and resilient; they are both easily impressionable and also quick to adapt and learn. Psychosocial interventions during, after and most efficiently before an event can improve outcome, especially if they involve parents and schools, media and work organisations. Public education through children should be encouraged to increase knowledge of radiation and strategies to minimise exposure and irradiation. Children can become vectors of prevention, preparedness and mitigation through information and behavioural rehearsal. Special consideration must therefore be given to education, school programmes, practice rehearsal and media exposure.


[Clinical analysis of 31 patients with gastric stromal tumors].
To investigate the clinical manifestations, diagnosis and treatment of gastric stromal tumors. 31 patients with gastric stromal tumors treated from 1993, 1 - 2001, 9 were analyzed retrospectively. All cases were diagnosed by pathological and immunohistochemistry examinations. According to Levin's standard combining with Hurliman's and Goldbum's methods, the patients were classified. There are no significant difference between male and female patients. 50 - 60 years old patients have high incidence. The distribution of gastric tromal tumors is fundus > body > antrum. Diagnosis of this condition is sometimes difficult and treatment is often delayed because patients usually present with nonspecific abdominal symptoms. The main manifestations of gastric stromal tumors are upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage 61.3% (19/31), 7 patients with acute hemorrhage and 12 with chronic hemorrhage. Most of them were malignant. Abdominal malaises and/or distention 32.3% (10/31) and abdominal pain 22.6% (7/31). Gastroscopy, ultrasound gastroscopy, computed tomography, B type ultrasound and upper gastrointestinal X-ray series are helpful to diagnosis. But the final diagnosis is decided by pathological and immunohistochemistry examinations. Gastric stromal tumors exhibit consistent immunohistochemical expressions of CD(117) and/or CD(34). The operative treatment is thought of the first choice. Effect of the chemotherapy isn't satisfied. There is no standard chemotherapy for gastric stromal tumors. Gastric stromal tumor is a kind of separated submucosal tumor which is different from leiomyoma, leiomyosarcoma and neurogenic tumors. Pathological and immunohistochemistry inspectations are very important to make clear diagnosis. Early diagnosis and rational treatment are the keys to improve the prognosis.


Hematopoiesis: Gap Junction Intercellular Communication is Likely to be Involved in Regulation of Stroma-dependent Proliferation of Hemopoietic Stem Cells.
The 80-100 fold increased immunohistological expression of the Gap Junction (GJ) protein Connexin-43 in murine bone marrow during the neonatal period and directly following cytoreductive treatment of adult mice suggests that the regulation of stem cell proliferation may involve GJ Intercellular Communication (GJIC). Using a series of stromal cell lines from foetal liver and neonatal bone marrow we observed that the percentage of cells with GJIC, as indicated by dye-coupling using microinjection of lucifer yellow, correlated with the stromal support for late appearing clones formed by primitive stem cells (CAFC week 3-5). In order to functionally block all GJIC between mutual stromal cells and stromal cells and hemopoietic cells, in long-term stroma-supported flask (LTC) and CAFC cultures, the lipophilic compounds amphotericin-B (AB), nystatin, alpha-glycyrrhetinic acid, tetraphenylboron, dipicrylamine and arachidonic acid were tested for their effect on GJIC and CAFC support. Only AB and nystatin, which induced complete and prolonged GJIC blockade, were able to dramatically inhibit cobblestone area (CA) formation and CFU-C generation in LTC. This inhibition could be fully abrogated by withdrawing AB within the first 2 weeks of culture. Low AB concentrations stimulated CA formation. The AB-mediated inhibition of hemopoiesis probably involved direct stromal contact with stem cells because a) AB did not inhibit CFU-C generation when stem cells were cultured in trans-well inserts above the stroma; b) conditioned media from AB-containing or normal LTC did not inhibit colony formation by normal cells in semi-solid, non-stromal cultures, and c) AB did not inhibit colony formation by bone marrow cells in semi-solid culture nor did it inhibit growth or maintenance of stromal cells. In addition, The inhibition of hemopoiesis by AB could also not be explained by changes in the amount of cytokine and chemokine transcripts, including TGF-b1, in AB-blocked stromal cells. Our findings support the involvement of GJIC in stroma-dependent regulation of hemopoietic stem cell proliferation.


A method for estimating sex using metric analysis of the scapula.
The most accurate and precise methods for the assessment of age and stature often require knowledge of sex. Thus, being able to correctly identify sex from skeletal remains is critical in the forensic context. The presence of the os coxae or skull can never be guaranteed, making the development of reliable methods of sex estimation using other skeletal elements necessary. Using a 724 individual calibration sample from the Hamann-Todd collection, this study identifies sexual dimorphism in the human scapula, and presents a new five-variable discriminant function for sex estimation. The overall accuracy of this method proved to be 95.7% on the cross-validated calibration sample, 92.5% on an 80 individual test sample from the Hamann-Todd collection, and 84.4% on a 32 individual test sample from the skeletal collection of the Wichita State University Biological Anthropology Laboratory. Additionally, a slightly less accurate two-variable model was developed and has cross-validated accuracy of 91.3%.


RORβ suppresses the stemness of gastric cancer cells by downregulating the activity of the Wnt signaling pathway.
Gastric cancer (GC) is the third leading cause of cancer‑related mortality and the fifth most common type of cancer worldwide. GC stem cells (GCSCs) have been reported to be responsible for the malignant behavior of GC. However, the key molecular mechanism controlling GCSC function remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the function of retinoic acid‑related orphan receptor β (RORβ) in GC. The expression levels of RORβ in GC cells and clinical GC tissues were analyzed using western blotting, reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR (RT‑qPCR) and immunohistochemistry. The association between RORβ expression levels and GCSC markers was analyzed using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, and GeneChip was performed to identify differentially expressed genes between control and RORβ‑overexpressing GC cells. CCK‑8 and flow cytometric assays were used to evaluate the effect of RORβ on cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. The effect of RORβ on the self‑renewal capacity of GCSCs was measured using a sphere formation assay, the expression levels of induced pluripotent stem (iPS) factors and epithelial‑mesenchymal transition (EMT)‑related factors were measured by RT‑qPCR and western blotting, and the tumorigenic capacity was measured by an in vivo mouse model. Finally, the impact of RORβ on the Wnt signaling pathway was determined using western blotting and a TOP/FOP flash assay. The results revealed that the expression levels of RORβ were downregulated in GC tissues compared with para‑carcinoma tissues, and were inversely associated with the expression levels of GCSC markers. The overexpression of RORβ upregulated the expression levels of the pro‑apoptotic gene, Bcl‑2 like protein 11, which subsequently inhibited the viability and promoted the apoptosis of GC cells. In addition, RORβ decreased the sphere forming ability, and downregulated the expression levels of iPS cell‑ and EMT‑related factors. In vivo, RORβ suppressed the tumorigenic capacity and stemness of GC cells. Mechanistically, RORβ was revealed to decrease the activity of the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathway in GCSCs. In conclusion, the findings of the present study identified RORβ as a novel suppressor of GCSCs and highlighted the prospect of RORβ as a novel candidate target for stem cell‑based GC therapy.


Commercial applications of speech interface technology: an industry at the threshold.
Speech interface technology, which includes automatic speech recognition, synthetic speech, and natural language processing, is beginning to have a significant impact on business and personal computer use. Today, powerful and inexpensive microprocessors and improved algorithms are driving commercial applications in computer command, consumer, data entry, speech-to-text, telephone, and voice verification. Robust speaker-independent recognition systems for command and navigation in personal computers are now available; telephone-based transaction and database inquiry systems using both speech synthesis and recognition are coming into use. Large-vocabulary speech interface systems for document creation and read-aloud proofing are expanding beyond niche markets. Today's applications represent a small preview of a rich future for speech interface technology that will eventually replace keyboards with microphones and loud-speakers to give easy accessibility to increasingly intelligent machines.


Does socket liner material affect clinical outcomes in lower limb prosthesis users? Insights from a randomized control trial.
Among the noted disadvantages of prosthesis suspension by flexible liner is the increased rate of perspiration within the socket, which has the potential to cause discomfort, suspension issues, and tissue damage. In recent years, phase change material technology has been adopted for the use in prosthesis liners. These promise to improve temperature control and, consequently, reduce sweating. Previous work has demonstrated that this approach is effective in slowing the temperature increase at the limb-socket interface, but it was not clear how this would translate to clinical outcomes. This study had the aim to compare conventional and phase change material liners regarding prosthesis utilization, physical performance, and patient-reported outcome measures. A randomized double-blind cross-over study design with 6-month intervention periods was used. Of the 42 enrolled participants, only 50% completed the protocol. The high attrition was in large part because of the COVID-19 pandemic that started disrupting daily life and thereby the data collection midway through the study period. The findings indicate that the temperature control liners were, by trend, associated with better prosthesis utilization. The found effects did not reach the level of statistical significance, which is likely a result of the unduly reduced sample size.


Antifungal Effects of Common Mouthwashes on Candida Strains Colonized in the Oral Cavities of Liver Transplant Recipients in South Iran in 2014.
Among the opportunistic microorganisms, fungi, particularly Candida, play an important role in the mortality of transplant recipients. Thus, controlling and preventing fungal colonizations in various parts of the body, including the oral cavity, can reduce the possibility of post-transplant invasive fungal infections. This can be done simply by using mouthwashes. The current study aimed to determine the prevalence of fungal species of Candida within the oral cavities of liver transplant recipients, and to evaluate the effects on Candida colonization of different exposure times to common mouthwashes. Specimens were taken from the oral cavities of 101 liver transplant recipients who were referred to our clinic for their first monthly examination. After cultivation and DNA extraction, yeast strains were identified with the RFLP technique. Each strain's susceptibility to 0.2% chlorhexidine, Vi-One, Oral-B, Nanosil D1, and Nystatin mouthwashes was determined based on the CLSI M27-A2 standard method. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS. Out of 101 samples from liver transplant recipients, 68 cases showed fungi growing within the culture media (67.4%). C. albicans and C. glabrata, respectively, were the first and second most frequent types. Mouthwash susceptibility tests revealed that their antifungal effects over 60 seconds were significantly higher than with an exposure time of 30 seconds. At both 30 and 60 seconds, chlorhexidine was significantly the most efficient. Chlorhexidine mouthwash with an exposure time of 60 seconds or more is suggested as an effective antifungal agent to be included in the medication regimen of liver transplant patients pre- and postoperatively, in order to prevent fungal colonization and subsequent systemic infections.


Isolation of 10 differentially expressed cDNAs in p53-induced apoptosis: activation of the vertebrate homologue of the drosophila seven in absentia gene.
We report the isolation of 10 differentially expressed cDNAs in the process of apoptosis induced by the p53 tamor suppressor. As a global analytical method, we performed a differential display of mRNA between mouse M1 myeloid leukemia cells and derived clone LTR6 cells, which contain a stably transfected temperature-sensitive mutant of p53. At 32 degrees C wild-type p53 function is activated in LTR6 cells, resulting in programmed cell death. Eight genes are activated (TSAP; tumor suppressor activated pathway), and two are inhibited (TSIP, tumor suppressor inhibited pathway) in their expression. None of the 10 sequences has hitherto been recognized as part of the p53 signaling pathway. Three TSAPs are homologous to known genes. TSAP1 corresponds to phospholipase C beta 4. TSAP2 has a conserved domain homologous to a multiple endocrine neoplasia I (ZFM1) candidate gene. TSAP3 is the mouse homologue of the Drosophila seven in absentia gene. These data provide novel molecules involved in the pathway of wild-type p53 activation. They establish a functional link between a homologue of a conserved developmental Drosophila gene and signal transduction in tumor suppression leading to programmed cell death.


Gag P2/NC and pol genetic diversity, polymorphism, and drug resistance mutations in HIV-1 CRF02_AG- and non-CRF02_AG-infected patients in Yaoundé, Cameroon.
In HIV-1 subtype-B, specific mutations in Gag cleavage sites (CS) are associated with treatment failure, with limited knowledge among non-B subtypes. We analyzed non-B HIV-1 gag and pol (protease/reverse-transcriptase) sequences from Cameroonians for drug resistance mutations (DRMs) in the gag P2/NC CS, and pol major DRMs. Phylogeny of the 141 sequences revealed a high genetic diversity (12 subtypes): 67.37% CRF02_AG versus 32.6% non-CRF02_AG. Overall, 7.3% transmitted and 34.3% acquired DRMs were found, including M184V, thymidine analogue mutations (T215F, D67N, K70R, K219Q), NNRTIs (L100I, Y181C, K103N, V108I, Y188L), and PIs (V82L). Twelve subjects [10 with HIV-1 CRF02_AG, 8 treatment-naïve and 4 on 3TC-AZT-NVP] showed 3 to 4 mutations in the Gag P2/NC CS: S373Q/T/A, A374T/S/G/N, T375S/A/N/G, I376V, G381S, and R380K. Subjects with or without Gag P2/NC CS mutations showed no significant difference in viral loads. Treatment-naïve subjects harboring NRTI-DRMs had significantly lower CD4 cells than those with NRTI-DRMs on ART (p = 0.042). Interestingly, two subjects had major DRMs to NRTIs, NNRTIs, and 4 mutations in the Gag P2/NC CS. In this prevailing CRF02_AG population with little exposure to PIs (~3%), mutations in the Gag P2/NC CS could increase the risk of treatment failure if there is increased use of PIs-based therapy.


Insights into the role of gut and intratumor microbiota in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma as new key players in preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic perspective.
Microbiota consists of a dynamic organization of bacteria, viruses, archaea, and fungal species involved in a number of vital functions spanning from the digestion of carbohydrates, vitamin synthesis, involvement in immune system to drug metabolism. More than 95 % of microbiota resides within the gut and it is essential for maintaining gut homeostasis. Dysregulation of gut microbiota contributes to the onset of several non-communicable diseases including cancer. Among the latter, pancreatic cancer is catching the attention of scientists around the globe being one of the most aggressive and resistant to therapies positioning the pancreatic cancer as one of the leading causes of death from cancer worldwide. In recent years, several studies have shown that the gut and tumor microbiota play a key role in the development, progression and prognosis of PDAC, mainly due to microbial ability to modulate host immune system and metabolize drugs. This review will focus on the new insights into the role of the microbiota as a new key player in pancreatic cancer PDAC development and prognosis by enlightening the microbial potential to interact with chemo/immunotherapeutic drugs and to modulate tumor microenvironment, thus impacting on cancer therapy success with the aim to pave the way to new integrative and interventional diagnostics or therapeutics approaches to prevent, diagnose and treat pancreatic cancer.


Uniting security forces against risk.
Threats to your facility's physical and information security become more complex all the time. To create a truly effective security program, consider developing an integrated security program that encompasses both traditional and information technology protection. The result? A strong, streamlined program that enables--not inhibits--healthcare delivery.


[Disputes and history of fetal heart monitoring].
The concept of fetal heart monitoring to determine the fetal wellbeing state has been employed for almost 300 years, but in the last 50 years it has observed drastic changes due to the incorporation of the electronic devices that has started controversy since the moment of its description and point of start. The purpose of this article is to mention the key points and controversial moments in the history of the cardiotocography


Preclinical drug metabolism and pharmacokinetic evaluation of GW844520, a novel anti-malarial mitochondrial electron transport inhibitor.
GW844520 is a potent and selective inhibitor of the cytochrome bc1 complex of mitochondrial electron transport in P. falciparum, the parasite primarily responsible for the mortality associated with malaria worldwide. GW844520 is fully active against the parasite including resistance isolates, showing no cross resistance with agents in use. To evaluate full potential of this development candidate, we conducted drug metabolism and pharmacokinetic studies of this novel anti-malarial. GW844520 had low blood clearance of about 0.5-4% of hepatic blood flow and a steady-state volume of distribution of 2-4 times total body water in mouse, rat, dog, and monkey. Oral bioavailability was high (51-100%). Consistent with the in vivo data, GW844520 had low intrinsic clearance in liver microsomes and hepatocytes of animal and human origin, high passive cellular permeability and was not a P-glycoprotein substrate. GW844520 did not associate appreciably with blood cells but was highly bound to plasma proteins (>99%) in all species. GW844520 was a substrate and inhibitor of human CYP2D6 but not of CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4. This conjunctive analysis supports continued evaluation of this compound in definitive pre-IND studies and exemplifies our strategy supporting the discovery of novel agents to treat diseases of the developing world.


Combination gene therapy of lung cancer with conditionally replicating adenovirus and adenovirus-herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase.
A major obstacle to the success of gene therapy strategies that directly target cancer cells is the low gene transfer rate. To address this problem, we had previously proposed a combination adenoviral gene therapy containing a conditionally replicating adenovirus (CRAD) expressing mutant E1 (Delta24RGD), and a replication-defective E1-deleted adenovirus to enhance the efficiency of gene transfer. Suicide/pro-drug gene therapy has an important additional benefit to the therapy of cancer. This relates to the transfer and expression of non-mammalian genes encoding enzymes that convert non-toxic pro-drugs into cellular toxins. We investigated the interaction between CRAD (Delta24RGD) and a replication-defective E1-deleted adenovirus (ad-HSTK) containing a suicide gene (HSTK: herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase gene) with respect to therapeutic gene production and tumor cell killing efficacy. Combined transduction of CRAD and ad-HSTK increased the transduction efficiency of HSTK and increased its sensitivity to ganciclovir (GCV) more efficiently than ad-HSTK alone. Transfer of medium of CRAD and ad-HSTK co-transduced cells induced the transfer of HSTK (media transferable bystander effect), and enhanced its sensitivity to GCV. In an animal tumor model, combined intratumoral injection of CRAD and ad-HSTK followed by GCV administration induced prolonged expression of HSTK and stronger growth suppression of established lung cancer xenografts than single injections. These data demonstrate that the selective replication of ad-HSTK due to the presence of mutant E1, produced by a Delta24RGD and HSTK/GCV suicide gene system, resulted in a striking improvement in anti-tumor effects in vitro and in vivo.


Association between the Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction and the Self-Esteem and Relationship Questionnaire following treatment with sildenafil citrate for men with erectile dysfunction.
Research is lacking on the correlation between treatment satisfaction and confidence, self-esteem, and relationships for men receiving treatment for erectile dysfunction (ED). We sought to correlate scores between the validated Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) index and the validated Self-Esteem And Relationship (SEAR) questionnaire following treatment with sildenafil citrate (VIAGRA). This study was based on an open-label, flexible-dose trial of 93 sildenafil-naive patients with ED. Pearson correlation coefficients between EDITS index and SEAR questionnaire scores, each of which can range from 0 to 100 (most favorable), were calculated at end of treatment (EOT). An analysis of covariance model was applied to associate changes from baseline to EOT in SEAR scores with EDITS score at EOT, controlling for baseline SEAR score. Significant and sizable Pearson's correlations between SEAR and EDITS scores (P < or = 0.0001; range: 0.49-0.84) were observed. A 10-point higher EDITS scores at EOT corresponded to a significant and tangible average improvement in SEAR scores from baseline to EOT (P < or = 0.0001; range: 6.6-8.7). Average SEAR scores at EOT were markedly different between patients with greater treatment satisfaction at EOT (EDITS score > or = median EDITS score of 88.6; n = 50) and those with lesser treatment satisfaction at EOT (EDITS score <88.6; n = 43). The data add to the validity of the SEAR questionnaire, suggest a tangible relationship between treatment satisfaction and psychosocial benefit among men with ED treated with sildenafil, and highlight the importance of assessing the psychosocial impact of ED in men undergoing treatment.


Cyp11A1 canola plants under short time heat stress conditions.
In order to investigate the high temperature tolerance of spring canola plants (Brassica napus L.) constitutively expressing cyp11A1 gene which encodes bovine cytochrome P450(scc) the growth features were analyzed under short time heat stress (42 degrees C) in growth chamber. Earlier it was documented that results of the heat tolerance test positively correlated with improvement of high temperature resistance in field trial. Higher relative water content (by 13%) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, lower electrolyte leakage (up 1.4-fold) and smaller increase in chlorophyll a and carotenoid contents in cyp11A1 canola leaves in comparison with wild-type plants under stress allowed to conclude cyp11A1 plants are more tolerant to high temperature than the control ones. We suppose that SOD activity increase which revealed in our transgenic canola in normal condition plays the defining role in the biochemical alterations in plant metabolism for the thermotolerance improvement. SOD activity increment could be caused by heterologous cytochrome P450(scc) activity which resulted in the superoxide radical formation. Cyp11A1 canola plants might be resistant to the other stress conditions of different origin.


Specific mechanism of Acidithiobacillus caldus extracellular polymeric substances in the bioleaching of copper-bearing sulfide ore.
This study aimed to reveal the specific mechanism of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in the bioleaching of copper-bearing sulfide ore by moderately thermophilic bacterium Acidithiobacillus caldus. The bioleaching performance of blank control (BC), planktonic cell deficient (PD), attached cell deficient (AD), and EPS deficient (ED) systems were compared, to investigate the specific functions of "non-contact" and "contact" (including direct contact and, EPS-mediated contact) mechanisms. The detailed mechanics of bioleaching were studied using μx of cell growth, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The μx of cell growth demonstrated that EPS favors planktonic and attached cell growth. SEM observation revealed that intensive micro-pores on slag benefitted from the "EPS-mediated contact" mechanism. XRD identification indicated that additional chemical derivatives were produced via "EPS-mediated contact" mechanism, because of the active iron/sulfur metabolism. FTIR analysis revealed that the absorption peaks of C-O-S, sulfate, and S = O, which are closely associated with sulfur metabolism, have significant influences of EPS secretion. Taken together, the "EPS-mediated contact" mechanism contributed to almost half of the "contact" mechanism efficiency and a quarter of the total bioleaching efficiency. The proposed specific mechanism of EPS can deepen our understanding of similar bioleaching processes.


Release of hydrogen molecules from the photodissociation of amorphous solid water and polycrystalline ice at 157 and 193 nm.
The production of H(2) in highly excited vibrational and rotational states (v=0-5, J=0-17) from the 157 nm photodissociation of amorphous solid water ice films at 100 K was observed directly using resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization. Weaker signals from H(2)(v=2,3 and 4) were obtained from 157 nm photolysis of polycrystalline ice, but H(2)(v=0 and 1) populations in this case were below the detection limit. The H(2) products show two distinct formation mechanisms. Endothermic abstraction of a hydrogen atom from H(2)O by a photolytically produced H atom yields vibrationally cold H(2) products, whereas exothermic recombination of two H-atom photoproducts yields H(2) molecules with a highly excited vibrational distribution and non-Boltzmann rotational population distributions as has been predicted previously by both quantum-mechanical and molecular dynamics calculations.


Emotional sequelae of disasters: a primary care physician's guide.
Disasters are a common cause of psychological trauma and distress, especially for women victims, who are more likely to develop several types of psychological problems. This paper examines the important role of the primary care physician in addressing the emotional and psychological needs of disaster victims. The phases of a disaster are discussed, as are common disaster-related somatic complaints. The paper then outlines a brief intervention for use with disaster victims that can be performed in a primary care physician's office, addresses appropriate patient referral, and outlines the mental health resources commonly available after a disaster.


In vitro production of interleukin-6 by human gingival, normal buccal mucosa, and oral submucous fibrosis fibroblasts treated with betel-nut alkaloids.
This study aimed to assess the possibility of a direct effect of betel-nut alkaloids arecoline and arecaidine on cell proliferation and interleukin-6 (IL-6) production by cultured fibroblasts from human normal gingiva, buccal mucosa and oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) buccal mucosa in vitro. Confluent monolayers of fibroblasts were incubated with or without alkaloids in the presence of 10% fetal calf serum for 48 h at 37 degree C in 5% CO2 and air. At the end of the culture period, supernatants were collected and assayed for IL-6 level. The cell proliferation was monitored by determining 5-bromo-2'-deoxy-uridine (BrdU) incorporated into cellular DNA. Except for the fact that arecoline inhibited cell growth at 100 micrograms/ml, arecoline and arecaidine had similar dose-dependent stimulant effects on the proliferation of these three groups fibroblasts. Concentrations of IL-6 in the control culture supernatants were greatest in healthy gingival fibroblasts, followed by normal buccal mucosa and OSF. Also, the presence of fetal calf serum could stimulate IL-6 release. Except for arecoline at the 100 microgram/mg, there were no significant differences in IL-6 levels between treated and control cultures of the same group when the data were expressed with mean +/- S.D.. However, two of six individuals' normal buccal mucosa fibroblasts significantly released less IL-6, and some cases of OSF and healthy gingiva exhibited slightly higher levels of IL-6 when cells were exposed to arecoline or arecaidine in cultures. Such findings suggests that arecoline and arecaidine can enhance cell proliferation and affect fibroblasts to synthesize IL-6. Furthermore, IL-6 may be a contributing molecular factor in the pathological features noted in OSF.


Assessment of Ecosystem Service Quality and Its Correlation with Landscape Patterns in Haidian District, Beijing.
Landscape architecture with urban green space as the main research object is an evidence-based science. It is an important issue to optimize green space systems from the point of view of ecosystem services. In this paper, high-resolution (1.5 m resolution) remote sensing images are combined with data-processing software, such as ENVI, ArcGIS, and Fragstats, to evaluate ecosystem service quality and compute the landscape pattern in the Haidian District (Beijing, China), so that the relationship between the ecosystem service quality and landscape pattern can be quantitatively studied and a strategy can be provided for green space optimization in cities. The following conclusions are drawn: (1) for the evaluated quality of 14 ecosystem services in Haidian District (refer to Section Analysis of the Association of the Percentage of Patches (PLAND) Index of Forest Land and Quality of Ecosystem Service in Haidian District). Forest land is the main provider of the ecosystem service in Haidian District, while construction land only provides cultural services; (2) on the whole, the spatial distribution of the ecosystem services in Haidian District gradually decreases from the west to the east, which basically matches with the spatial distribution of the forest land. The regulating service and supporting service are matched with the distribution of the urban green space. The cultural service is closely associated with history resource points; and (3) the analysis results of the association between landscape pattern and ecosystem service quality show that the percentage of patches (PLAND) index for forest land has a significant logarithmic relationship with the regulating service and supporting service. The critical value of the PLAND index is 30. Besides the Xishan area with the most coverage of forest land, the landscape shape index (LSI) of the brushwood has a logarithmic relationship with the ecosystem service quality. The critical value of the LSI value is 50. Finally, this paper proposes an area optimization strategy of green space in Haidian District from the view of the ecosystem system service. The Xishan area is classified into the ecosystem red line to control city expansion. The regulating and supporting services can be enhanced in the north flat area by improving the patch shape index. The ecosystem service capabilities can be improved by adding the forest land in the existing green space for the southeast urban areas.


Activity of Bacteriophages in Removing Biofilms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates from Chronic Rhinosinusitis Patients.
Introduction:Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections are prevalent amongst chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) sufferers. Many P. aeruginosa strains form biofilms, leading to treatment failure. Lytic bacteriophages (phages) are viruses that infect, replicate within, and lyse bacteria, causing bacterial death. Aim: To assess the activity of a phage cocktail in eradicating biofilms of ex vivo P.aeruginosa isolates from CRS patients. Methods: P. aeruginosa isolates from CRS patients with and without cystic fibrosis (CF) across three continents were multi-locus sequence typed and tested for antibiotic resistance. Biofilms grown in vitro were treated with a cocktail of four phages (CT-PA). Biofilm biomass was measured after 24 and 48 h, using a crystal violet assay. Phage titrations were performed to confirm replication of the phages. A linear mixed effects model was applied to assess the effects of treatment, time, CF status, and multidrug resistance on the biomass of the biofilm. Results: The isolates included 44 strain types. CT-PA treatment significantly reduced biofilm biomass at both 24 and 48 h post-treatment (p < 0.0001), regardless of CF status or antibiotic resistance. Biomass was decreased by a median of 76% at 48 h. Decrease in biofilm was accompanied by a rise in phage titres for all except one strain. Conclusion: A single dose of phages is able to significantly reduce biofilms formed in vitro by a range of P.aeruginosa isolates from CRS patients. This represents an exciting potential and novel targeted treatment for P. aeruginosa biofilm infections and multidrug resistant bacteria.


Small-area census data services by microcomputer: applications of REDATAM system in Latin America.
The authors describe a data retrieval system called REDATAM, Retrieval of Data for Small Area by Microcomputer. "The interactive REDATAM system, in English and Spanish versions, was created to solve the problem of providing small-area population and housing information by using an IBM or fully compatible microcomputer to store the microdata of an entire census on a hard disk (or laser disks for larger countries) and to permit any tabulation to be produced rapidly for any area down to city blocks or smaller....REDATAM may play an important role in the 1990 censuses in the Latin American and Caribbean countries since the system will permit the provision of timely small-area services (and at the national level in the Caribbean countries) before, as well as after, the regular data processing and publication of results are ready."


Rhodium-Catalyzed Enantioselective Synthesis of Oxazinones via an Asymmetric Ring Opening-Lactonization Cascade of Oxabicyclic Alkenes.
The rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric ring opening reaction of oxabicyclic alkenes is shown to be an efficient method for synthesizing chiral heterocycles. We demonstrate that the pairwise combination of chiral catalyst with chiral amino-acid-derived pronucleophiles results in a stereodivergent synthesis of diastereomeric hydroxyesters. A favorable conformational preference induces the subsequent lactonization of one diastereomer leading to the highly enantioselective synthesis of oxazinones.


Early maladaptive schemas in personality disordered individuals.
The present study aimed to examine the specificity of schema domains in three personality disorder (PD) groups, namely borderline (BPD), obsessive-compulsive (OCPD), and avoidant PD (AvPD), and to correctly identify the three PD groups on the basis of these schemas. The sample consisted of 48 clinical participants diagnosed with PDs and assigned to 1 of 3 groups on the basis of their Axis II diagnoses (BPD: n = 13; OCPD: n = 13; AvPD: n = 22). High scores on Dependence/Incompetence, Defectiveness/ Shame and Abandonment were found for the BPD group. Such pattern appears to be most consistent with Young's theory of BPD. Consistent with the theory and empirical findings of Beck et al. (1990, 2001), OCPD was associated with elevations on the Unrelenting Standards schema domain, but not on Emotional Inhibition, which was found to be elevated for AvPD. In conclusion, the present study suggests that there are different patterns of schema domains across different PDs and that the Schema Questionnaire (SQ) is potentially useful in differentiating between these PDs.