Who is accessing antiretroviral therapy in Malawi? A study in the Southern Region on the occupation category "other".
As part of quarterly national reports on the scale up of antiretroviral therapy (ART), demographic and clinical characteristics are recorded including data on occupation. The largest occupational category is that of "other". As there is no information on the composition of the different occupations of patients placed in this category, a formal study was therefore conducted in 6 representative public sector facilities in the Southeastern Region of Malawi. Between January to June 2006, there were 126 adult patients recorded as "other" in the occupation column. A great variety of different occupations was recorded including no employment 30%, administration jobs 24%, general labourers 11%, builders 10%, tailors 9% and drivers 7%. A wide range of people with different jobs are accessing ART, and this should help in improving the economy of the patients as well as the country at large.


The effect of resource availability on interspecific competition between a native and an invasive ant.
Interspecific competition influences the composition of ecological communities. Species may differ in their needs for different resources, therefore resource availability may determine the outcome of interspecific interactions. Species often compete over food, shelter or both. When more than one resource is limited, different species may prioritize different resources. To determine the impact of resource availability on the competitive relationship between an invasive and a native species, we examined interactions between groups of the invasive Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) and the native odorous ant (Tapinoma sessile) over (1) food, (2) shelter or (3) both simultaneously. We further examined the mechanisms underlying the competitive relationship, asking whether aggressive interactions, exploratory behaviour or the order of arrival at a resource explained resource use. Shelter was preferred by both species when no competitors were present. In a competitive setting, L. humile groups controlled shelter through aggressive displacement but lost control over food due to investment of workers in the control of shelter. Thus, there are tradeoffs when competing over multiple resources and aggressive interactions allow invasive species to displace native species from a preferred resource. This article is part of the theme issue 'Intergroup conflict across taxa'.


Reviving the use of inhibitors of matrix metalloproteases in spinal cord injury: a case for specificity.
At present, there are no restorative therapies in the clinic for spinal cord injury, with current treatments offering only palliative treatment options. The role of matrix metalloproteases is well established in spinal cord injury, however, translation into the clinical space was plagued by early designs of matrix metalloprotease inhibitors that lacked specificity and fears of musculoskeletal syndrome prevented their further development. Newer, much more specific matrix metalloprotease inhibitors have revived the possibility of using these inhibitors in the clinic since they are much more specific to their target matrix metalloproteases. Here, the evidence for use of matrix metalloproteases after spinal cord injury is reviewed and researchers are urged to overcome their old fears regarding matrix metalloprotease inhibition and possible side effects for the field to progress. Recently published work by us shows that inhibition of specific matrix metalloproteases after spinal cord injury holds promise since four key consequences of spinal cord injury could be alleviated by specific, next-generation matrix metalloprotease inhibitors. For example, specific inhibition of matrix metalloprotease-9 and matrix metalloprotease-12 within 24 hours after injury and for 3 days, alleviates spinal cord injury-induced edema, blood-spinal cord barrier breakdown, neuropathic pain and restores sensory and locomotor function. Attempts are now underway to translate this therapy into the clinic.


Expression of constitutively active STAT3 can replicate the cytokine-suppressive activity of interleukin-10 in human primary macrophages.
There is general agreement that signal transducer and activation of transcription 3 (STAT3) is required to mediate the anti-inflammatory activities of interleukin (IL)-10. However, STAT3 is activated by multiple factors that do not share the anti-inflammatory activity of IL-10. The question remains whether STAT3 is sufficient for the anti-inflammatory effects or whether there are other signals required, as had been suggested previously. We set out to map the human IL-10 receptor and to identify the key elements involved in transducing the cytokine-suppressive effects of IL-10. We were able to show an absolute requirement for both of the tyrosine residues found within the YXXQ-STAT3-docking site within the IL-10 receptor 1 and that no other signals appeared to be required. We used a constitutively active STAT3 to determine whether expression of this factor could suppress lipopolysaccharide-induced tumor necrosis factor and IL-6 production. Our data show that STAT3 activity can suppress both IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. However, in synovial fibroblasts, STAT3 did not suppress IL-6 production, suggesting that the cellular environment plays an important role in dictating whether STAT3 drives a pro- or anti-inflammatory response.


Identification and determination of flavonoids, carotenoids and chlorophyll concentration in Cynodon dactylon (L.) by HPLC analysis.
Cynodon dactylon (L.) is a potent medicinal plant in the traditional and current Indian medicinal systems. The objective of this research was to find out the levels of flavonoids, carotenoids and chlorophyll b in C. dactylon leaves by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) equipped with a diode array detector. HPLC analysis revealed that total carotenoid and total flavonoid concentration were 62 mg/100 g and 249.1 μg/g, respectively. The mean chlorophyll b was 85.1 mg/100 g in C. dactylon. Among the flavonoids, quercetin (164.7 μg/g) was the major flavonoid followed by kaempferol (48.2 μg/g), rutin (18.4 μg/g), catechin (12.1 μg/g) and myricetin (5.7 μg/g). Of the carotenoids, β-carotene (35.2 mg/100 g) was predominant followed by lutein (17.0 mg/100 g), violaxanthin (5.8 mg/100 g) and zeaxanthin (4.2 mg/100 g). Chlorophyll b concentration was 85.1 mg/100 g in C. dactylon. The results of this investigation should be useful information for further pharmacological studies.


Intercalation of Primary Alcohols into Layered Titanoniobates.
Lamellar oxides form an important class of functional materials and are often susceptible to topotactic substitution of the ions between the layers. This opens up the structure to direct reactions with alkylammonium ions often substituting for group 1 ions forcing an increase in layer separation. Proton exchange with group 1 ions is also possible in mineral acids with the resulting protonated materials typically being acidic. These solid acids can further react with bases such as alkyl amines again causing an increase in interlayer separation. Alcohols do not readily form stable ROH2+X- (R alkyl chain, X halide) species and being less basic than RNH2 are less commonly investigated for intercalation into layered oxides. Here the intercalation of simple primary alcohols of the form ROH (R = CxH2x+1; x = 1-10) is investigated using the layered titanoniobate HTiNbO5 as the ceramic host. Direct reaction is found to be ineffective so instead butylamine is first intercalated followed by reaction with the primary alcohols. The butylamine remains in the final product, but intercalation of the alcohols causes a significant modification of the interlayer space of the ceramic. This shows how alcohols can be used to influence the interlayer space of oxide sheets in functional layered oxide ceramics.


Evaluation of the kinetic data for intramolecular 1,x-hydrogen shifts in alkyl radicals and structure/reactivity predictions from the carbocyclic model for the transition state.
Experimental and computational kinetic data for the intramolecular 1,x-hydrogen shift in alkyl radicals are compiled in Arrhenius format for x = 2-5. Significant experimental disparity remains, especially for x = 2 and 3. Experimental data for radicals with tert centers or bearing spectator substituents are lacking for all x, and none exist for x = 6. The common use of the strain energy of the unsubstituted (x+1)-carbocycle to coarsely model the activation energy for the 1,x-shift is extended to explore more subtle differences in progressively methyl-substituted systems by use of molecular mechanics estimates of differences in strain between radicals and carbocycles. For x = 5 and 6, a sterically driven increase in E is predicted for shifts in the tert --> tert class that apparently runs counter to the behavior of bimolecular hydrogen transfers. In contrast, a sterically driven decrease in E is predicted to result from spectator methyl groups for the prim --> prim reaction class for all x. There is no experimental basis to test these predictions; fragmentary computational evidence lends some support to the second but is ambiguous concerning the first. Possible deficiencies in the use of carbocycles as transition state models are discussed.


Bone tissue engineering with porous hydroxyapatite ceramics.
The main principle of bone tissue engineering strategy is to use an osteoconductive porous scaffold in combination with osteoinductive molecules or osteogenic cells. The requirements for a scaffold in bone regeneration are: (1) biocompatibility, (2) osteoconductivity, (3) interconnected porous structure, (4) appropriate mechanical strength, and (5) biodegradability. We recently developed a fully interconnected porous hydroxyapatite (IP-CHA) by adopting the "form-gel" technique. IP-CHA has a three-dimensional structure with spherical pores of uniform size that are interconnected by window-like holes; the material also demonstrated adequate compression strength. In animal experiments, IP-CHA showed superior osteoconduction, with the majority of pores filled with newly formed bone. The interconnected porous structure facilitates bone tissue engineering by allowing the introduction of bone cells, osteotropic agents, or vasculature into the pores. In this article, we review the accumulated data on bone tissue engineering using the novel scaffold, focusing especially on new techniques in combination with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) or mesenchymal stem cells.


Defining a noncarcinogenic dose of recombinant human parathyroid hormone 1-84 in a 2-year study in Fischer 344 rats.
The carcinogenic potential of human parathyroid hormone 1-84 (PTH) was assessed by daily subcutaneous injection (0, 10, 50, 150 microg/kg/day) for 2 years in Fischer 344 rats. Histopathological analyses were conducted on the standard set of soft tissues, tissues with macroscopic abnormalities, selected bones, and bones with abnormalities identified radiographically. All PTH doses caused widespread osteosclerosis and significant, dose-dependent increases in femoral and vertebral bone mineral content and density. In the mid-and high-dose groups, proliferative changes in bone increased with dose. Osteosarcoma was the most common change, followed by focal osteoblast hyperplasia, osteoblastoma, osteoma and skeletal fibrosarcoma. The incidence of bone neoplasms was comparable in control and low-dose groups providing a noncarcinogenic dose for PTH of 10 microg/kg/day at a systemic exposure to PTH that is 4.6-fold higher than for a 100 microg dose in humans. The ability of PTH to interact with and balance the effects of both the PTH-1 receptor and the putative C-terminal PTH receptor, may lead to the lower carcinogenic potential observed with PTH than reported previously for teriparatide.


A Compact Closed-Loop Optogenetics System Based on Artifact-Free Transparent Graphene Electrodes.
Electrophysiology is a decades-old technique widely used for monitoring activity of individual neurons and local field potentials. Optogenetics has revolutionized neuroscience studies by offering selective and fast control of targeted neurons and neuron populations. The combination of these two techniques is crucial for causal investigation of neural circuits and understanding their functional connectivity. However, electrical artifacts generated by light stimulation interfere with neural recordings and hinder the development of compact closed-loop systems for precise control of neural activity. Here, we demonstrate that transparent graphene micro-electrodes fabricated on a clear polyethylene terephthalate film eliminate the light-induced artifact problem and allow development of a compact battery-powered closed-loop optogenetics system. We extensively investigate light-induced artifacts for graphene electrodes in comparison to metal control electrodes. We then design optical stimulation module using micro-LED chips coupled to optical fibers to deliver light to intended depth for optogenetic stimulation. For artifact-free integration of graphene micro-electrode recordings with optogenetic stimulation, we design and develop a compact closed-loop system and validate it for different frequencies of interest for neural recordings. This compact closed-loop optogenetics system can be used for various applications involving optogenetic stimulation and electrophysiological recordings.


Supporting young researchers in food texture studies.
I learned about food texture by reading many articles in the Journal of Texture Studies (JTS) and Prof. Bourne's textbook Food Texture and Viscosity, Concept and Measurement. I present here his great contributions as both the Editor-in-Chief of JTS and as the author of a superior textbook in the cultivation of future food texture researchers. Prof. Bourne has provided significant guidance to those in the industry using his textbook to suggest appropriate approaches to measure, evaluate, and alter the textures of agro-products and processed foods. I began my career in food rheology, learned the physiological techniques necessary for measuring mastication, and developed relationships with good sensory scientists along the way. I am happy to offer advice to agriculture and food scientists, researchers, and engineers in the food industry regarding food texture. I would like to be a follower of Prof. Bourne and support young food texture scientists in the 21st century. Food texture studies conducted during the last century are beginning to evolve. Based on previous publications in the Journal of Texture Studies, I believe that several areas can be further examined in this century. First, methods to evaluate the textures of heterogeneous materials, such as fruits and vegetables, require improvements. Second, the monitoring of rapid changes in food texture during oral processing should be considered during the design of food products. Third, a new instrumental method that mimics the movement and breakdown of soft foods by the tongue is being developed. The optimization of food processing to reduce the loss of agro-products and production of high-quality foods both require more attention according to the Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015.


Dirac particles on periodic quantum graphs.
We consider the Dirac equation on periodic networks (quantum graphs). The self-adjoint quasiperiodic boundary conditions are derived. The secular equation allowing us to find the energy spectrum of the Dirac particles on periodic quantum graphs is obtained. Band spectra of the periodic quantum graphs of different topologies are calculated. Universality of the probability to be in the spectrum for certain graph topologies is observed.


Introgression and mating patterns between white-handed gibbons (Hylobates lar) and pileated gibbons (Hylobates pileatus) in a natural hybrid zone.
Gibbons (Family Hylobatidae) are a suitable model for exploring hybridization in pair-living primates as several species form hybrid zones. In Khao Yai National Park, Thailand, white-handed gibbons (Hylobates lar) and pileated gibbons (Hylobates pileatus) are distributed parapatrically and hybridize in a narrow zone. Their phenotypic characteristics suggest limited inter-species gene flow, although this has never been assessed. To uncover the history and degree of gene flow between the two species, we studied the genetic structure of gibbons in the hybrid zone by analyzing fecal DNA samples, phenotypic characteristics, vocalizations and individuals' social status. We determined eight autosomal single nucleotide variant (SNV) loci, and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosomal haplotypes of 72 gibbons. We compared these markers with reference types of wild pureblood white-handed gibbons (n = 12) in Kaeng Krachan National Park and pureblood pileated gibbons (n = 4) in Khao Soi Dao Wildlife Sanctuary. Autosomal genotypic analyses confirmed the various levels of mixed ancestry for several adult gibbons with or without atypical phenotypic traits in Khao Yai National Park. In some other adult gibbons, the mixed ancestry was not detected in either autosomal SNVs or their phenotypic traits but the mtDNA. Both male and female adult hybrids formed reproductive units mainly with a phenotypic pureblood partner and many of them produced offspring. Taken together, our results suggest that once hybridization occurs, white-handed-pileated-gibbon hybrids can reproduce with either parental species and that the backcrossing and thus introgression may occur in successive generations, with no drastic changes in phenotypic appearance.


How to evaluate patients for rheumatic diseases.
The rheumatic diseases encompass many common and uncommon disorders. The information derived from a careful history and physical examination can help define the urgency of the problem, classify the disease, provide diagnosis, and permit optimal therapy.


Work-related asthma symptoms and attitudes to the workplace.
The Health & Safety Executive estimate that between 1500-3000 UK workers develop asthma through potentially avoidable workplace exposures each year. To assess the perception of health, safety and the work environment by workers with symptoms suggestive of occupational asthma. A total of 97 workers referred to hospital specialists with symptoms suggestive of occupational asthma were studied in order to investigate their attitudes to the workplace, safety and health. A qualitative study design using semi-structured telephone interviews at 2 months and 12 months following enrolment was used at 6 national UK centres with a special interest in occupational asthma. Many workers in the study felt let down by the workplace and management and perceived that a lack of health and safety measures had contributed to the development of their asthma symptoms. Many workers felt that their employers were 'uncaring' and were pursuing or considering medico-legal cases against them. Workers' perception of risk influences their behaviour in the workplace, and their own health beliefs potentially create barriers to changing this. It is essential to consider workers' perceptions when developing strategies to effect change within the workplace.


Effect of a Tyr-to-His point-mutation at position 59 in the alpha-1 helix of the HLA-B27 class-I molecule on allospecific and virus-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocyte recognition.
HLA-B2703, a mutation of HLA-B2705, is characterized by a Tyr-to-His substitution at position 59 in the alpha 1 domain of the class-I heavy chain. So far, the HLA-B2703 subtype was found only in two Black individuals and it is the first polymorphism at position 59 of MHC class-I molecules. We have examined whether the single amino-acid substitution at position 59 results in an alloantigenic determinant and HLA-restriction element, and whether HLA-B2703 functionally differs from HLA-B2705. In vitro, HLA-B2703-positive lymphocytes were not stimulated by HLA-B2705-positive cells. Nevertheless, HLA-B2703 was recognized as an alloantigen. HLA-B2702-anti-HLA-B2705 CTL lysed HLA-B2703-positive cells less efficiently than HLA-B2705-positive cells. In addition, anti-HLA-B27 antibodies were found that lysed HLA-B2705 but not HLA-B2703 positive cells. Also, CTL clones have been described that can distinguish HLA-B2703 from HLA-B2705 (1). However, the HLA-B2703 subtype did not function as a private virus restriction element. HLA-B2705-restricted influenza virus-specific CTL also recognized HLA-B2703-positive virus-infected cells, and vice versa. Thus, the HLA-B2703 mutation represents an example of a class-I antigen without specific significance for the recognition of viral peptides.


Severe oral manifestation of dengue viral infection: a rare clinical description.
Dengue infection is one of the most common mosquito-borne viral diseases of humans worldwide, representing a significant public health problem in over 100 tropical countries where its primary vector Aedes aegypti occurs. Although the disease is frequently limited to an abrupt febrile illness, it may also cause significant morbidity and if not adequately treated, mortality. Therefore, it requires a correct and early diagnosis. Oral manifestations of dengue infection are commonly reported as gingival bleeding, but detailed description of oral alterations in the context of dengue infection is lacking in the literature. Thus, in the current manuscript the authors aimed to report a case of dengue viral infection in an 18-year-old male patient who was primarily diagnosed due to extensive oral involvement characterized by the presence of gingival and lip reddish swelling, highlighting the importance of an adequate oral evaluation of patients with symptoms suggestive of dengue, especially in known endemic regions.


An Overview of the Sociological and Environmental Factors Influencing Eating Food Behavior in Canada.
This review extensively discusses various socio environmental factors affecting eating behavior of the general public within Canada including the development and implementation of national policies. A framework representing the determinants of healthy eating can be grouped into four categories i.e., the individual determinants, the economic environment, the social environment and the physical environment. This framework allowed for addressing food insecurity and social economic ecosystem of Canadians. Lastly, we investigate the role in which biotechnology plays in improving food security and addresses the significant impact biotechnology has contributed toward on agriculture and the food market. Overall, this review using such sources as Web of Science, Pub Med and Scopus provides significant contribution toward understanding the social economic environment and eating behavior of people living in Canada. In conclusion, this has led to identify a research gap as there is a significant need to address the development and implementation of policies in the food and nutrition environment.


Borderline resectable pancreatic cancer: need for standardization and methods for optimal clinical trial design.
Methodological limitations of prior studies have prevented progress in the treatment of patients with borderline resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Shortcomings have included an absence of staging and treatment standards and pre-existing biases with regard to the use of neoadjuvant therapy and the role of vascular resection at pancreatectomy. In this manuscript, we review limitations of studies of borderline resectable PDAC reported to date, highlight important controversies related to this disease stage, emphasize the research infrastructure necessary for its future study, and present a recently-approved Intergroup pilot study (Alliance A021101) that will provide a foundation upon which subsequent well-designed clinical trials can be performed. We identified twenty-three studies published since 2001 which report outcomes of patients with tumors labeled as borderline resectable and who were treated with neoadjuvant therapy prior to planned pancreatectomy. These studies were heterogeneous in terms of the populations studied, the metrics used to characterize therapeutic response, and the indications used to select patients for surgery. Mechanisms used to standardize these and other issues that are incorporated into Alliance A021101 are reviewed. Rigorous standards of clinical trial design incorporated into trials of other disease stages must be adopted in all future studies of borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. The Intergroup trial should serve as a paradigm for such investigations.


Metabolism and Gut Microbiota in Cancer Immunoediting, CD8/Treg Ratios, Immune Cell Homeostasis, and Cancer (Immuno)Therapy: Concise Review.
The concept of immunoediting, a process whereby the immune system eliminates immunogenic cancer cell clones, allowing the remaining cells to progress and form a tumor, has evolved with growing appreciation of the importance of cancer ecology on tumor progression. As cancer cells grow and modify their environment, they create spatial and nutrient constraints that may affect not only immune cell function but also differentiation, tipping the balance between cytotoxic and regulatory immunity to facilitate tumor growth. Here, we review how immunometabolism may contribute to cancer escape from the immune system, as well as highlight an emerging role of gut microbiota, its effects on the immune system and on response to immunotherapy. We conclude with a discussion of how these pieces can be integrated to devise better combination therapies and highlight the role of computational approaches as a potential tool to aid in combination therapy design. Stem Cells 2019;37:1273-1280.


Reverse remodeling and improved regional function after repair of left ventricular aneurysm.
Changes in regional left ventricular mechanics after anteroapical aneurysm repair in human subjects can be studied noninvasively by means of magnetic resonance tagging. We hypothesized that left ventricular intramyocardial function would improve throughout the left ventricle after repair. We studied 6 male patients with a left ventricular anteroapical aneurysm (mean age +/- SD, 63 +/- 5 years) using magnetic resonance tagging 3 +/- 1 weeks before and 6 +/- 1 weeks after aneurysm repair, coronary artery bypass grafting, and mitral valve repair (n = 2). Breath-hold tagged imaging spanned the left ventricle in the short axis from apex to base. Left ventricular mass, end-diastolic and end-systolic volume, and ejection fraction were measured. Two-dimensional strain analysis was applied; averaged for the apical, middle, and basal left ventricle and the whole left ventricle; and expressed as greatest lengthening (similar to wall thickening), greatest shortening, and angular deviation of the lengthening strain from the radial direction. After aneurysm repair, left ventricular mass decreased from 373 +/- 27 to 333 +/- 25 g (P <.05), end-diastolic volume from 212 +/- 22 to 168 +/- 18 mL (P <.005), and end-systolic volume from 188 +/- 26 to 113 +/- 18 mL (P <.005); ejection fraction improved from 13% +/- 4% to 23% +/- 4% (P <.005). For the whole left ventricle, lengthening strain increased from before to after the operation (8% +/- 1% to 10% +/- 1%, P <.01). Most of the improved lengthening occurred at the middle left ventricle (8% +/- 1% to 11% +/- 1%, P <.01), in the base (8% +/- 1% to 10% +/- 1%, P <.05), and in the inferior wall (9% +/- 1% to 12% +/- 1%, P <.05). Lengthening tended to become more radially oriented, decreasing from 31 degrees +/- 3 degrees to 27 degrees +/- 3 degrees (P =.10). Shortening strain did not change (10% +/- 1% to 11% +/- 1%, P = not significant). Left ventricular aneurysm repair is associated with reverse remodeling and an improvement in the extent and orientation of intramyocardial function, especially at the middle and basal left ventricle and inferior wall.


Harnessing thermal plasticity to enhance the performance of mass-reared insects: opportunities and challenges.
Insects are mass-reared for release for biocontrol including the sterile insect technique. Insects are usually reared at temperatures that maximize the number of animals produced, are chilled for handling and transport, and released into the field, where temperatures may be considerably different to those experienced previously. Insect thermal biology is phenotypically plastic (i.e. flexible), which means that there may exist opportunities to increase the performance of these programmes by modifying the temperature regimes during rearing, handling, and release. Here we synthesize the literature on thermal plasticity in relation to the opportunities to reduce temperature-related damage and increase the performance of released insects. We summarize how and why temperature affects insect biology, and the types of plasticity shown by insects. We specifically identify aspects of the production chain that might lead to mismatches between the thermal acclimation of the insect and the temperatures it is exposed to, and identify ways to harness physiological plasticity to reduce that potential mismatch. We address some of the practical (especially engineering) challenges to implementing some of the best-supported thermal regimes to maximize performance (e.g. fluctuating thermal regimes), and acknowledge that a focus only on thermal performance may lead to unwanted trade-offs with other traits that contribute to the success of the programme. Together, it appears that thermal physiological plasticity is well-enough understood to allow its implementation in release programmes.


The outcome of delayed graft function in cadaveric renal transplants treated with low dose cyclosporine.
Thirty-three consecutive cadaveric renal transplantations performed at the National Taiwan University Hospital from November 1985 to December 1989 were reviewed to determine the effect of early function on the 1-year patient and graft survival rates. Immediate function was present in 17 transplants; delayed graft function with acute tubular necrosis occurred in 16 cases. The 16 transplants with acute tubular necrosis (ATN) were treated with low dose cyclosporine. Among them, 13 patients had delayed function which resolved after 2 to 60 days of hemodialysis, but 3 grafts did not regain function. The allograft survival rate at 1-year was 68.7% for the delayed function group and 88.2% for the immediate function group. This difference was not statistically significant (p greater than 0.05). The 1-year patient survival rate was also not significantly different (87.5% vs 88.2%). There was no relationship between graft loss and duration of ATN. However, the graft survival rate in patients with a serum creatinine level below 2 mg/dL, after recovery either from ATN or non-ATN, was better than that for patients with a serum creatinine level of more than 2 mg/dL. The difference was statistically significant (95.8% vs 50.0%, p less than 0.02). It is concluded that delayed allograft function with acute tubular necrosis does not significantly alter the 1-year survival rates of patients and grafts in low-dose cyclosporine therapy. However, it is deleterious to the 1-year survival rate of an allograft when poor functional recovery occurs in an ATN or non-ATN condition.


Design of a phencyclidine implantation pellet; suitable for tolerance development.
When using laboratory animals (e.g., mice) for phencyclidine (PCP) tolerance studies, an essential part of the procedure is to administer the PCP in such a way that the animals received adequate doses of the drug at frequent enough intervals to reach and maintain the desired levels of tolerance or employ a osmotic minipump which is either suitable or convenient to develop a high degree of tolerance to PCP in a large number of animals in a short period. However, these methods are unfit for routine work because of repeated daily injections consume too much time and osmotic minipump comes expensive. Therefore, in this paper we attempted to develop PCP pellet suitable for tolerance development. The s.c. implantation of a 10 or 20 mg PCP pellet in the back of a conscious mouse resulted in a much more rapid development of tolerance to PCP than that produced in mice receiving daily i.p. injection of, 10 or 20 mg/kg, PCP-HCl. Assessment of and degree of tolerance to PCP by PCP pellet implantation and daily injection of PCP-HCl were evidenced by a degree of decrease in the duration of motor incoordination after the challenge with, 20 mg/kg, PCP-HCl 24 h after removal of PCP pellets or a last injection of PCP-HCl. These studies may demonstrate a substantial methodological improvement in producing a high degree of tolerance to PCP in a short period of time by means of the s.c. pellet implantation technique.


Oral cannabinoids in people living with HIV on effective antiretroviral therapy: CTN PT028-study protocol for a pilot randomised trial to assess safety, tolerability and effect on immune activation.
Despite antiretroviral therapy (ART), people living with HIV have higher rates of non-infectious chronic diseases. These conditions are driven by relatively high levels of inflammation persisting on ART compared with uninfected individuals. Chronic inflammation also contributes to HIV persistence during ART. Cannabis when taken orally may represent a way to reduce inflammation and strengthen immune responses. Before planning large interventional studies, it is important to ensure that cannabis taken orally is safe and well tolerated in people living with HIV. We propose to conduct a pilot randomised trial to examine the safety and tolerability of cannabis oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) consumed orally in people living with HIV. We will also measure inflammatory markers, markers of HIV persistence in peripheral blood cells and changes in the gastrointestinal microbiome. Twenty-six people living with HIV having undetectable viral load for at least 3 years will be randomised to receive TN-TC11LM (THC:CBD in 1:1 ratio) or TN-TC19LM (THC:CBD in 1:9 ratio) capsules daily for 12 weeks. Safety and tolerability of these capsules will be assessed through haematological, hepatic and renal blood tests, face-to-face interviews and questionnaires. Proportions of participants without any signs of significant toxicity (grades 0-2 scores on the WHO toxicity scale) and who complete the study, as well as scores on quality of life and mood will be examined using descriptive statistics. The effects on inflammatory markers, markers of peripheral blood reservoir size and effect on the composition of the gastrointestinal microbiome will be assessed before and after study completion. This study has been approved by the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre. A Data Safety Monitor will review safety information at regular intervals. The final manuscript will be submitted to an open-access journal within 6 months of study completion. NCT03550352.


Thermodynamics of soft anisotropic contact lines.
Contact lines arising from the intersection of interfaces between liquids and nematic liquid crystals are representative models of soft anisotropic contact lines. This paper presents the thermodynamics of soft anisotropic contact lines and the derivation of the one dimensional (1D) Gibbs-Duhem adsorption equation. Consistency between the 1D Gibbs-Duhem equation and the classical equations of lineal nematostatics is shown. Using a phase space that takes into account thermodynamics, liquid crystalline order, and geometric variables, the generalized nematic line Gibbs-Duhem equation reveals the presence of couplings between curvature, torsion, adsorption, temperature, and average molecular orientation. Merging the thermodynamic analysis with nematostatics results in a model for contact line shape and orientation selection. The ability of an adsorbed solute to orient the director and to bend and twist the contact line is predicted. The thermodynamic origin of preferred orientation at a straight contact line is established.


Light-induced phase responses in Gonyaulax are drastically altered by creatine.
The mammalian phosphagen creatine has been shown to shorten the circadian period (tau) of the bioluminescence rhythm in the marine alga Gonyaulax polyedra from 23 to 18 hr. The studies described here concern the interactive effects of creatine and light, mainly on the bioluminescence rhythm. We have found that the tau-shortening effect of creatine is greater in blue light, suggesting that it acts on a blue-sensitive light input pathway. In addition, creatine affects the phase response mechanism in Gonyaulax, which is also known to be mainly blue-sensitive. The responses to 4-hr light pulses are dramatically increased under the influence of creatine. The unusual phase response curve (PRC) of the Gonyaulax circadian system, which has no phase delays in the early night, is changed in the presence of creatine to a more typical type 0 PRC, with delays of up to 12 hr. Creatine also amplifies the cells' phototactic response, suggesting that the blue-sensitive light input pathway is shared by the phase-shifting mechanism of the bioluminescence oscillator and the mechanism responsible for phototaxis.


Damaging agitation intensities increase DNA synthesis rate and alter cell-cycle phase distributions of CHO cells.
The effects of fluid-mechanical force (agitation) on the cell cycle kinetics of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells cultured in suspension in 2-L bioreactors has been examined. A two-color flow cytometry method was used to determine the fraction rate of DNA synthesis. With increased agitation intensity, cell viability decreased as a result of increased cell death. However, increased agitation induced the viable cells of the culture to a higher proliferative state relative to a control culture. The fraction of viable cells of the high-agitation culture (250 rpm) in S phase was higher (up to 45%) and in G1 phase was lower (up to 50%) compared with the viable cells of the control culture (80 rpm). The DNA synthesis rate per viable S-phase cell of the high-agitation culture was confirmed by recovery experiments, which were conducted to measure the apparent specific growth rate and the cell cycle kinetics of the high-agitation culture upon reduction in the agitation rate from 250 rpm back to 80 rpm. The apparent specific growth rate of the test culture, calculated for the first 12 h of the recovery period, was greater than the apparent specific growth rate of the control culture. Furthermore, the proliferative state of the viable cells of the test culture, which had become higher relative to the control culture during the high agitation period, gradually approached the level of the control culture during recovery. Results also show that the magnitude of the agitation intensity; the culture agitated at 250 rpm attained a greater proliferative state than a parallel culture agitated at 235 rpm. The 250-rpm culture had a higher fraction of S-phase and a lower fraction of G1-phase cells than the 235-rpm culture. The DNA synthesis rate per viable S-phase cell of the 250-rpm culture was greater than of the 235-rpm culture.


Multi-Modal Imaging with a Toolbox of Influenza A Reporter Viruses.
Reporter viruses are useful probes for studying multiple stages of the viral life cycle. Here we describe an expanded toolbox of fluorescent and bioluminescent influenza A reporter viruses. The enhanced utility of these tools enabled kinetic studies of viral attachment, infection, and co-infection. Multi-modal bioluminescence and positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging of infected animals revealed that antiviral treatment reduced viral load, dissemination, and inflammation. These new technologies and applications will dramatically accelerate in vitro and in vivo influenza virus studies.


Examination of the cytoplasmic DNA in male reproductive cells to determine the potential for cytoplasmic inheritance in 295 angiosperm species.
Mature pollen grains of 295 angiosperm species were screened by epifluorescence microscopy for a marker that denotes the mode of cytoplasmic inheritance. We used the DNA fluorochrome DAPI (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) for pollen cell staining. The presence or absence of fluorescence of cytoplasmic DNA in the generative cell or sperm cells was examined in each species. The species examined represented 254 genera and 98 families, and 40 of these families had not been previously studied in this regard. The cytoplasmic DNA of the generative cell or sperm cells did not fluoresce in 81% of the species examined, from 83% of the genera and 87% of the families examined, indicating the potential for maternal cytoplasmic inheritance in these species. In contrast, the male reproductive cells of 19% of the species, from 17% of the genera and 26% of the families examined, displayed fluorescence of the cytoplasmic DNA, indicating the potential for biparental cytoplasmic inheritance in these species. The results revealed the potential for biparental cytoplasmic inheritance in several species in which the inheritance mode was previously unknown, including plants in the Bignoniaceae, Cornaceae, Cruciferae (Brassicaceae), Cyperaceae, Dipsacaceae, Hydrocharitaceae, Papaveraceae, Portulacaceae, Tiliaceae, Valerianaceae, and Zingiberaceae. Electron microscopy revealed that the sperm cells of Portulaca grandiflora contain both plastid and mitochondrial DNA. However, in the generative cells of Musella lasiocarpa, the mitochondria contain DNA, but the plastids do not. These data provide a foundation for further studies of cytoplasmic inheritance in angiosperms.


Implications of miR cluster 143/145 as universal anti-oncomiRs and their dysregulation during tumorigenesis.
Tumorigenesis is a multistep process, de-regulated due to the imbalance of oncogenes as well as anti-oncogenes, resulting in disruption of tissue homeostasis. In many cases the effect of oncogenes and anti-oncogenes are mediated by various other molecules such as microRNAs. microRNAs are small non-coding RNAs established to post-transcriptionally regulate more than half of the protein coding genes. miR cluster 143/145 is one such cancer-related microRNA cluster which is down-regulated in most of the cancers and is able to hinder tumorigenesis by targeting tumor-associated genes. The fact that they could sensitize drug-resistant cancer cells by targeting multidrug resistant genes makes them potent tools to target cancer cells. Their low levels precede events which lead to cancer progression and therefore could be considered also as biomarkers to stage the disease. Interestingly, evidence suggests the existence of several in vivo mechanisms by which this cluster is differentially regulated at the molecular level to keep their levels low in cancer. In this review, we summarize the roles of miR cluster 143/145 in cancer, their potential prognostic applications and also their regulation during tumorigenesis.


Removable dentures and relations between their construction, adaptation and functionality role and influence on dysgeusia.
A large foreign body inserted into oral cavity, e.g. complete denture, both lower and upper, might cause a temporary or constant dysarthia and dysgeusia. These might be reduced and even completely eliminated by proper dentures construction. Problems with normal articulation might result from construction faults, e.g. too thick denture base, incorrect denture base modelling, wrong teeth placement, lowering or excessive height occlusion. The hypogeusia has been repeatedly observed as the symptom in the course of the complete denture adaptation stage, as well as might keep further. The main role in the mechanism of occurrence of hypogeusia has the limitation of the lingual flexibility, especially of its tip, throughout the use of the complete denture. It provokes difficulties with the accurate course of its physiological activity as well as makes impossible the balancing with the tongue of the cryaesthesia, heath sensibility and tactile sense, which are blocked on the palate.


Anabolic effects of a G protein-coupled receptor kinase inhibitor expressed in osteoblasts.
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) play a key role in regulating bone remodeling. Whether GPCRs exert anabolic or catabolic osseous effects may be determined by the rate of receptor desensitization in osteoblasts. Receptor desensitization is largely mediated by direct phosphorylation of GPCR proteins by a family of enzymes termed GPCR kinases (GRKs). We have selectively manipulated GRK activity in osteoblasts in vitro and in vivo by overexpressing a GRK inhibitor. We found that expression of a GRK inhibitor enhanced parathyroid hormone (PTH)/PTH-related peptide (PTHrP) receptor-stimulated cAMP generation and inhibited agonist-induced phosphorylation of this receptor in cell culture systems, consistent with attenuation of receptor desensitization. To determine the effect of GRK inhibition on bone formation in vivo, we targeted the expression of a GRK inhibitor to mature osteoblasts using the mouse osteocalcin gene 2 (OG2) promoter. Transgenic mice demonstrated enhanced bone remodeling as well as enhanced urinary excretion of the osteoclastic activity marker dexoypyridinoline. Both osteoprotegrin and OPG ligand mRNA levels were altered in calvaria of transgenic mice in a pattern that would promote osteoclast activation. The predominant effect of the transgene, however, was anabolic, as evidenced by an increase in bone density and trabecular bone volume in the transgenic mice compared with nontransgenic littermate controls.


The effect of fatigue on electromechanical response times in basketball players with and without persistent low back pain.
Typically, athletes alter movement mechanics in the presence of back pain, but the effect of these changes on lower extremity injury risk is not well understood. This study aimed to compare the effect of fatigue on electromechanical response times during a choice reaction task in basketball players with and without persistent low back pain. Twenty-four male basketball players participated. Total reaction time (TRT), premotor time (PMT), and electromechanical delay (EMD data were recorded before and after fatigue. The chronic low back pain (CLBP) group had significantly longer EMD in Med gastrocnemius (p = 0.001) and Tibialis anterior (p = 0.001), and shorter EMD in Vastus Lateralis (p = 0.001), Vastus Medialis Oblique (p = 0.003), and Semitendinosus (p = 0.025) muscles after fatigue. PMT in the CLBP group had longer than the Non-CLBP in Vastus Lateralis (p = 0.010), Vastus Medialis Oblique (p = 0.017), Semitendinosus (p = 0.002). Also, TRT was longer in knee flexion (p = 0.001) and ankle plantarflexion (p = 0.001) muscle groups. The different effects of fatigue on electromechanical response times of the knee and ankle in people with CLBP may represent the effect of an axial injury on lower extremity injury risk factors in situations of higher cognitive load, similar to competitive play.


A mutant retroviral receptor restricts virus superinfection interference and productive infection.
Both cell-free and cell-associated infection routes are important for retroviral dissemination. Regardless of the mechanism, the driving force of retroviral entry is the interaction between the viral envelope and its receptor. To date it remains unclear how decreased affinity of viruses for their receptors affects viral cell-free infection, cell-cell transmission, and spreading kinetics. We have previously characterized a mutant form of the amphotropic murine retrovirus receptor human phosphate transporter 2 (PiT2) wherein the single substitution of a glutamic acid for the lysine residue at position 522 of this receptor is sufficient to render it to function as a gibbon ape leukemia virus (GALV) receptor. In this study we analyzed the binding affinity of the mutant receptor PiT2K522E and determined that it has a 1000 fold decreased GALV envelope binding affinity compared to the GALV wild type receptor. The decreased affinity does not restrict the initiation of cell-free GALV infection. The diminished binding affinity does, however, correlate with a decrease in the ability of GALV to spread in cells expressing this mutant receptor. The reduced ability of GALV to subsequently spread among cells expressing PiT2K522E is likely resulted from reduced cell-cell transmission, the decreased ability of PiT2K522E-expressing cells to establish superinfection interference, and attendant cytopathic affects.


Numerical investigation of effects of incisor angle on production of sibilant /s/.
The effects of the inclination angle of the incisor on the speech production of the fricative consonant /s/ was investigated using an implicit compressible flow solver. The hierarchical structure grid was applied to reduce the grid generation time for the vocal tract geometry. The airflow and sound during the pronunciation of /s/ were simulated using the adaptively switched time stepping scheme, and the angle of the incisor in the vocal tract was changed from normal position up to 30°. The results showed that increasing the incisor angle affected the flow configuration and moved the location of the high turbulence intensity region thereby decreased the amplitudes of the sound in the frequency range from 8 to 12 kHz. Performing the Fourier transform on the velocity fluctuation, we found that the position of large magnitudes of the velocity at 10 kHz shifted toward the lip outlet when the incisor angle was increased. In addition, separate acoustic simulations showed that the shift in the potential sound source position decreased the far-field sound amplitudes above 8 kHz. These results provide the underlying insights necessary to design dental prostheses for the production of sibilant fricatives.


The anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects of Korean black ginseng.
Different processing conditions alter the ginseng bioactive compounds, promoting or reducing its anti-inflammatory effects. We compared black ginseng (BG) - that have been steamed 5 times - with red ginseng (RG). To compare the anti-inflammatory activities and the anti-nociceptive properties of RG and BG. Nitric Oxide (NO) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide (MTT) assay, quantitative Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR), western blot, xylene-induced ear edema, carrageenan-induced paw edema RESULTS: The ginsenoside contents were confirmed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and has been altered through increased processing. The highest concentration of these extracts inhibited NO production to near-basal levels in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 without exhibiting cytotoxicity. Pro-inflammatory cytokine expression at the mRNA level was investigated using qRT-PCR. Comparatively, BG exhibited better inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators, iNOS and COX-2 and pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. Protein expression was determined using western blot analysis and BG exhibited stronger inhibition. Xylene-induced ear edema model in mice and carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats were carried out and tested with the effects of ginseng as well as dexamethasone and indomethacin - commonly used drugs. BG is a more potent anti-inflammatory agent, possesses anti-nociceptive properties, and has a strong potency comparable to the NSAIDs. BG has more potent anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive effects due to the change in ginsenoside component with increased processing.


Imiquimod has strain-dependent effects in mice and does not uniquely model human psoriasis.
Imiquimod (IMQ) produces a cutaneous phenotype in mice frequently studied as an acute model of human psoriasis. Whether this phenotype depends on strain or sex has never been systematically investigated on a large scale. Such effects, however, could lead to conflicts among studies, while further impacting study outcomes and efforts to translate research findings. RNA-seq was used to evaluate the psoriasiform phenotype elicited by 6 days of Aldara (5% IMQ) treatment in both sexes of seven mouse strains (C57BL/6 J (B6), BALB/cJ, CD1, DBA/1 J, FVB/NJ, 129X1/SvJ, and MOLF/EiJ). In most strains, IMQ altered gene expression in a manner consistent with human psoriasis, partly due to innate immune activation and decreased homeostatic gene expression. The response of MOLF males was aberrant, however, with decreased expression of differentiation-associated genes (elevated in other strains). Key aspects of the IMQ response differed between the two most commonly studied strains (BALB/c and B6). Compared with BALB/c, the B6 phenotype showed increased expression of genes associated with DNA replication, IL-17A stimulation, and activated CD8+ T cells, but decreased expression of genes associated with interferon signaling and CD4+ T cells. Although IMQ-induced expression shifts mirrored psoriasis, responses in BALB/c, 129/SvJ, DBA, and MOLF mice were more consistent with other human skin conditions (e.g., wounds or infections). IMQ responses in B6 mice were most consistent with human psoriasis and best replicated expression patterns specific to psoriasis lesions. These findings demonstrate strain-dependent aspects of IMQ dermatitis in mice. We have shown that IMQ does not uniquely model psoriasis but in fact triggers a core set of pathways active in diverse skin diseases. Nonetheless, our findings suggest that B6 mice provide a better background than other strains for modeling psoriasis disease mechanisms.


Development of an 80-word clinical version of the modified rhyme test (MRT80).
The modified rhyme test [MRT; House, Williams, Hecker, and Kryter. (1965). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 37, 158-166] is a widely used test for measuring the intelligibility of communication systems [ANSI (2009). S3.2 (American National Standards Institute, New York)] but has never gained widespread acceptance as a clinical test of speech intelligibility for listeners who are hearing impaired (HI). In this study, a clinical version of the MRT consisting of two 80-word lists was developed and tested on 2394 service members with varying levels of hearing loss. The test used a factorial design incorporating two speech levels [70 and 78 dB sound pressure level (SPL)], two signal-to-noise ratios (+4 and -4 dB), and two binaural conditions (diotic and binaural). High-frequency emphasis reduced the impact of audibility for HI listeners, focusing the test on the distortion component of hearing loss. The results show that listeners with normal hearing (NH) obtained an average score of 80% correct on the MRT80 test. Listeners with a moderate hearing impairment scored an average of 70% correct. The overall level had little impact on performance for either NH or HI listeners. The results demonstrate that the MRT80 test could be a useful test to assess the distortion effects of hearing loss on speech intelligibility, particularly in cases where it is desirable to use a closed-set test for automatic administration.


Genome-wide association study of mammary gland tumors in Maltese dogs.
A genome-wide association study (GWAS) is a valuable tool for investigating genetic and phenotypic variation in many diseases. The objective of this study was to identify variations in the genomes of Maltese dogs that are associated with the mammary gland tumor (MGT) phenotype and to assess the association between each biological condition and MGT phenotype in Maltese dogs. DNA was extracted from 22 tumor samples and 11 whole blood samples from dogs with MGTs. Genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping was performed, and the top 20 SNPs associated with various conditions and genetic variations were mapped to their corresponding gene locations. The genotyping process successfully identified 173,662 loci, with an overall genotype completion rate of 99.92%. Through the quality control analysis, 46,912 of these SNPs were excluded. Allelic tests were conducted to generate Manhattan plots, which showed several significant SNPs associated with MGT phenotype in intergenic region. The most prominent SNP, located within a region associated with transcription and linked to the malignancy grade of MGT, was identified on chromosome 5 (p = 0.00001) though there may be lack of statistical significance. Other SNPs were also found in several genes associated with oncogenesis, including TNFSF18, WDR3, ASIC5, STAR, and IL1RAP. To our knowledge, this is the first GWAS to analyze the genetic predisposition to MGT in Maltese dogs. Despite the limited number of cases, these analyzed data could provide the basis for further research on the genetic predisposition to MGTs in Maltese dogs.


Accuracy of the Papanicolaou smear in the diagnosis of asymptomatic infection with Trichomonas vaginalis.
To assess the accuracy of Papanicolaou smears in reporting cytologic evidence of Trichomonas vaginalis in asymptomatic women attending a resident clinic. In phase I of this study, we prospectively enrolled 100 asymptomatic gynecologic patients to be screened for vaginal trichomoniasis using wet preparation, vaginal culture, and Papanicolaou smear. During phase II, asymptomatic patients (40 gynecologic and 20 obstetric) whose screening Papanicolaou smears showed cytologic evidence of trichomoniasis returned for wet preparation, culture, and repeat Papanicolaou smear. Patients were considered infected with T vaginalis if either the wet preparation or culture was positive, and uninfected if both tests were negative. The cytopathologist was not informed of the patient's enrollment in this study or of the results of culture or wet preparation. The prevalence of asymptomatic trichomonas infection in gynecologic patients enrolled in phase I was 6%. In asymptomatic gynecologic patients enrolled in phase II, repeat Papanicolaou smear had a sensitivity and specificity of 86 and 83%, respectively, when diagnosing infection. Thirty percent of these patients would have been treated unnecessarily for trichomoniasis based upon screening Papanicolaou smear. In obstetric patients, the sensitivity of repeat Papanicolaou smear was 94% and specificity was 100%. Had therapy been initiated based on screening cytology, 20% of obstetric patients would have received unindicated therapy. The differences in sensitivity and specificity between the groups were statistically significant (P < .05). When a screening Papanicolaou smear reports cytologic evidence of T vaginalis infection in the asymptomatic patient, a confirmatory test should be performed before initiating therapy.


Laboratory evaluation of the effect of unfilled resin after the use of self-etch and total-etch dentin adhesives on the Shear Bond Strength of composite to dentin.
Based on the frequent application of composite resins as tooth-colored fillings, this method is considered a viable alternative to dental amalgam. However, this method has the low bond strength of the composite to dentin. To solve this issue, various dental adhesive systems with different characteristics have been developed by dentistry experts. To assess the effect of an additional layer of unfilled resin in self-etch and total-etch dentin adhesives on the shear bond strength (SBS) of composite to dentin. Moreover, we assessed the effects of sample storage in artificial saliva on the SBS of composite to dentin. Methods: This experimental study was conducted on 160 freshly extracted human first or second premolar teeth, which were randomly divided into 16 groups. The teeth were prepared from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran (2008-2009). Scotchbond Multi-purpose (SBMP), single bond (SB), Clearfil SE Bond, and Clearfil S3 Bond were applied to dentin surface with or without the placement of hydrophobic resin (Margin Bond) in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturers. To expose the coronal dentin, the teeth were abraded with 600 grit SiC paper. Immediately after restoration, half of the samples were tested in terms of SBS, while the other samples were evaluated in terms of SBS after three months of storage in artificial saliva. SBS rates of dental composites evaluated by universal testing machine and samples were studied by optical stereomicroscopy to verify the failure type. Data analysis was performed in SPSS V.16 using Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, independent-samples t-test, ANOVA, and Duncan's logistic regression test. In this study, a significant reduction was observed in the SBS rates of SB and S3 bond adhesive systems after storage with and without hydrophobic resin (p>0.000). Without storage in normal saline, a significant increase was observed in the SBS rate of the SE bond (p=0.013). In addition, SBS rate of SBMP significantly increased after storage with hydrophobic resin (p=0.001). Finally, the highest and lowest rates of SBS were observed in the SE and S3 bonds in all the experimental groups, respectively. The effects of using a hydrophobic resin layer on shear bond strength values seem to be effective. The mild self-etch adhesive exhibited the best resin-dentine bond strength after aging.


Characterization of the Physicochemical Properties of β-Cyclodextrin-Divinyl Sulfone Polymer Carrier-Bile Acid Systems.
Herein, we report on the systematic design and characterization of cross-linked polymer carriers containing β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) and divinyl sulfone (DVS). The polymer carriers were prepared at variable feed ratios (β-CD-DVS; 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:6) and characterized using spectroscopy (IR, 1H solution NMR, and 13C CP-MAS solids NMR spectroscopy), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and a dye decolorization method using phenolphthalein. Uptake studies were carried out at pH 9.00 for the polymer carriers using single component bile acids (cholic acid, deoxycholic acid, glycodeoxycholic acid, and taurodeoxycholic acid). Equilibrium uptake results were evaluated by the Langmuir isotherm model where variable equilibrium parameters were related to the relative apolar character of the bile acid. The Langmuir model yields a carrier/bile acid binding affinity of ∼103 M-1 where the lipophilic inclusion sites of the polymer play a prominent role, while the DVS linker framework sites have a lower adsorption affinity, in accordance with the greater hydrophilic character of such sites.


Outcome of hepatoblastoma treated with the JPLT-1 (Japanese Study Group for Pediatric Liver Tumor) Protocol-1: A report from the Japanese Study Group for Pediatric Liver Tumor.
Hepatoblastoma is the most common malignant liver tumor in childhood. Multicenter studies elucidate the optimal pre- or postoperative chemotherapeutic regimens. This report reviews the results of the Japanese Study Group for Pediatric Liver Tumor Protocol-1 (JPLT-1) and compares its outcomes with published reports of other studies. From March 1991 to December 1999, 154 patients with malignant liver tumor including 145 cases of hepatoblastomas were enrolled in the JPLT study. Data from 134 cases were analyzed in this study. JPLT-1 protocol 91A was used for patients with stage I or II hepatoblastoma. The chemotherapy regimen consisted of repeated courses of cisplatin (CDDP), 40 mg/m(2), and tetrahydropyranyl (THP)-Adriamycin, 30 mg/m(2). JPLT-1 protocol 91B was administered to patients with stage IIIA, IIIB, or IV hepatoblastoma. The chemotherapy regimen consisted of repeated courses of CDDP, 80 mg/m(2), and THP-Adriamycin, 30 mg/m(2)/day for 2 days. Courses were repeated every 4 weeks as tolerated. Seven patients died of chemotherapy-related side effects. Six of them died of sepsis caused by leukopenia and 1 case of liver failure. Overall survival rate (3-year/6-year) was 100%/100% for stage I (n = 9), 100%/95.7% for stage II (n = 32), 76.6%/73.8% for stage IIIA (n = 48), 50.3%/50.3% for stage IIIB (n = 25), 64.8%/38.9% for stage IV (n = 20), and 77.8%/73.4% overall. For stage IIIA and B disease, intravenous chemotherapy was better than intraarterial chemotherapy (66.4% v 38.1% for event-free survival and 69.3% v. 57.1% for overall survival). Patients less than 1 year of age had a better prognosis than older patients, but age was not a significant prognostic factor by multivariate analysis. The overall and event-free survival rates of the JPLT-1 study of hepatoblastoma were comparable with the results of other multicenter studies in Europe and the United States. The event-free survival rate at 3 years for stage IIIB and IV disease was under 50%. New treatment strategies are needed for patients with advanced hepatoblastoma.


The use of carbon fibre material in radiographic cassettes: estimation of the dose and contrast advantages.
A Monte Carlo simulation has been used to estimate the dose and contrast advantages of replacing radiographic cassette fronts fabricated from aluminium with cassette fronts fabricated from low atomic number material (carbon fibre). The simulation used a realistic imaging geometry and calculations were made both with and without an anti-scatter grid. Account was taken of the scatter generated in the cassette front and the effect of beam hardening on primary contrast. Dose and contrast were evaluated for a range of cassette front thicknesses and tube potentials (60-150 kV) as well as for four examinations representative of situations with varying amounts of scatter. The results with an anti-scatter grid show a clear dose and contrast advantage in all cases when an aluminium cassette front is replaced with a low attenuation cassette front. The contrast advantage is dependent upon the examination and is generally greater for imaging bony structures than for imaging soft tissue. If a 1.74 mm aluminium cassette front is compared with a 1.1 mm carbon fibre cassette front, then the dose advantages are 16%, 9%, 8% and 6% and the contrast advantages are 10%, 7%, 4% and 5% for the AP paediatric pelvis examination at 60 kV, the anteroposterior (AP) lumbar spine examination at 80 kV, the lateral lumbar spine examination at 100 kV and the posteroanterior (PA) chest examination at 150 kV, respectively. The results without an anti-scatter grid show an increased dose advantage when a low attenuation cassette front is used, but the contrast advantage is small and in some situations negative.


Exceptional response to cetuximab monotherapy after failure of immunotherapy with a checkpoint inhibitor in a patient with metastatic head and neck squamous cell cancer: case report and review of the literature.
Immunotherapy with PD-1 inhibitors monotherapy or combined with chemotherapy comprises the first-line palliative treatment for patients with recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell cancers (R/M HNSCC). The established survival advantage among responders is overshadowed by the high percentage of patients failing the standard PD-1 inhibitor-based treatments. Salvage therapies are direly needed. However, no current standards are available. We present the case of a 65-year-old patient with heavily pretreated laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma who had an exceptional response to cetuximab monotherapy following the failure of immunotherapy with the PD-1 inhibitor nivolumab. We reviewed the literature for other cases of exceptional response to cetuximab, clinical studies investigating the combined or sequential administration of cetuximab and PD-1 inhibitors, and the mechanistic rationale for consideration of cetuximab as a potential salvage treatment after immunotherapy with PD-1 inhibitors. In addition to the specific epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitory effect, cetuximab, as an immunoglobulin G1 isotype, binds NK cells and elicits antibody-dependent cellular toxicity, triggering a domino of immunostimulatory, and immunoinhibitory effects that actually might decrease the cetuximab anticancer efficacy. However, in a tumor microenvironment exposed to previous treatment with a PD-1 inhibitor, the effects of the PD-1 inhibitor followed by cetuximab on innate and adaptative immune response appear to synergize. Specifically, persistent immune checkpoint inhibitors' consequences may negate downstream immunosuppressive effects of cetuximab caused through PD-1/PD-L1 upregulation, making it a more potent treatment option. Besides the potential synergistic effect on antitumor immune response with previous immune checkpoint inhibitors therapy, cetuximab is the only targeted agent approved for treating R/M HNSCC, making it a most advantageous candidate for further treatment validation studies as salvage treatment post-immunotherapy.


Graphene-supported platinum nanoparticles prepared by a self-regulated reduction method.
Graphene-supported Pt nanoparticles were prepared by a self-regulated reduction method without using any extra reductive agent. Unassisted reduction of Pt ions by the oxygen-containing functional groups on graphene was demonstrated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) showed a (200) peak of face-centered cubic Pt crystals and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) further confirmed the presence of Pt. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) depicted good dispersion of the Pt nanoparticles on graphene. The particle sizes estimated by TEM and XRD ranged from 2 to 6 nm. In comparison, the Pt nanoparticles reduced using ethylene glycol as an extra reducing agent exhibited larger sizes, a wider spread of size distribution, and less uniform dispersion on graphene. The electrocatalytic activity of Pt on graphene was verified by cyclic voltammetry. In addition, Raman scattering spectroscopy showed an increase in D- to G-peak ratio and an effect of surface-enhanced Raman scattering for the graphene decorated with Pt nanoparticles.


Submarine barite-opal rocks of hydrothermal origin.
Unusual submarine rocks consisting of barite, opal, and volcanic detritus were recovered from the Lau Basin northeast of Australia. It is proposed that these rocks were formed when hydrothermal solutions emanating from a fracture zone offsetting the active spreading center in the Lau Basin came into contact with cooler ocean waters.


Temporal and spatial distributions of ammonia-oxidizing archaea and bacteria and their ratio as an indicator of oligotrophic conditions in natural wetlands.
Ammonia-oxidizing organisms play an important role in wetland water purification and nitrogen cycling. We determined soil nitrification rates and investigated the seasonal and spatial distributions of ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) in three freshwater wetlands by using specific primers targeting the amoA genes of AOA and AOB and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The nitrifying potentials of wetland soils ranged from 1.4 to 4.0 μg g(-1) day(-1). The specific rates of ammonia oxidation activity by AOA and AOB at the Bee Hollow wetlands were 1.9 fmol NH(3) cell(-1) day(-1) and 36.8 fmol NH(3) cell(-1) day(-1), respectively. Soil nitrification potential was positively correlated with both archaeal and bacterial amoA abundance. However, the gene copies of AOA amoA were higher than those of AOB amoA by at least an order of magnitude in wetland soils and water in both summer and winter over a three year study period. AOB were more sensitive to low temperature than AOA. The amoA gene copy ratios of AOA to AOB in top soils (0-10 cm) ranged from 19 ± 4 to 100 ± 11 among the wetland sites. In contrast, the ratio of the wetland boundary soil was 10 ± 2, which was significantly lower than that of the wetland soils (P < 0.001). The NH(4)(+)-N concentrations in wetland water were lower than 2 mg/L throughout the study. The results suggest that ammonium concentration is a major factor influencing AOA and AOB population in wetlands, although other factors such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, and soil organic matter are involved. AOA are more persistent and more abundant than AOB in the nutrient-depleted oligotrophic wetlands. Therefore, ratio of AOA amoA gene copies to AOB amoA gene copies may serve as a new biological indicator for wetland condition assessment and wetland restoration applications.


Outcome of single ventricle and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection.
Management of patients with single-ventricle physiology is significantly affected by anomalies of pulmonary venous return at all stages, whether primary palliation, bidirectional Glenn shunt, or completion of Fontan circulation. We treated 25 patients with pulmonary venous anomalies and single ventricle by staged palliation, from June 1996 to May 2005. Visceral heterotaxy with atrial isomerism was present in 19 of them. Primary palliation with a systemic-to-pulmonary artery shunt was undertaken in 15 patients. There were 5 early deaths, of which 4 were due to obstruction of pulmonary venous return. A bidirectional Glenn shunt was constructed in 17 patients including 10 who had it as a primary palliative procedure. There were 7 early deaths after the bidirectional Glenn procedure; only one was due to pulmonary venous obstruction. Five patients attained completion of the Fontan procedure. There was one early death after the Fontan operation. Anomalous pulmonary venous return can significantly complicate the management of patients with single ventricle, with an impact on survival in early infancy. Palliation with the aim of instituting extracardiac conduit Fontan circulation allows greater latitude and more streamlined management.


Breakfast consumption among Malaysian primary and secondary school children and relationship with body weight status - Findings from the MyBreakfast Study.
This study aimed to determine the relationship between breakfast consumption and body weight status among primary and secondary school children in Malaysia. This nationwide cross-sectional study involved 5,332 primary school children aged 6 to 12 years and 3,000 secondary school children aged 13 to 17 years. Height and weight were measured and BMI-for-age was determined. Socio-demographic backgrounds, breakfast habits and physical activity levels were assessed using questionnaires. Breakfast frequency was defined as follows: breakfast skippers (ate breakfast 0-2 days/week), irregular breakfast eaters (ate breakfast 3-4 days/week) and regular breakfast eaters (ate breakfast ≥5 days/week). The overall prevalence of breakfast skippers and irregular breakfast eaters was 11.7% and 12.7% respectively. Breakfast skipping was related to age, sex, ethnicity, income and physical activity level. Among primary school boys and secondary school girls, the proportion of overweight/obesity was higher among breakfast skippers (boys: 43.9%, girls: 30.5%) than regular breakfast eaters (boys: 31.2%, girls: 22.7%). Among primary school children, only boys who skipped breakfast had a higher mean BMI-for-age z-score than regular breakfast eaters. Among secondary school boys and girls, BMI-for-age z-score was higher among breakfast skippers than regular breakfast eaters. Compared to regular breakfast eaters, primary school boys who skipped breakfast were 1.71 times (95% CI=1.26-2.32, p=0.001) more likely to be overweight/obese, while the risk was lower in primary school girls (OR=1.36, 95% CI=1.02-1.81, p=0.039) and secondary school girls (OR=1.38, 95% CI=1.01-1.90, p=0.044). Regular breakfast consumption was associated with a healthier body weight status and is a dietary behaviour which should be encouraged.


[Thyroid gland and pregnancy - summary of important findings].
Thyroid hormones play fundamental role in conception and pregnancy and are essential for normal adult health, fetus and childhood development. Many studies have shown an association between maternal thyroid diseases esp. hypothyroidism with obstetric problems and/or psychomotoric impairment in the offspring. The prevalence of undiagnosed lower thyroid function in pregnancy is present in about 4-8 % of pregnant women, and euthyroid women with thyroid autoimmunity (6-8 %) are further candidates for thyroid disorders in pregnancy. The thyroid gland needs to produce 50 % more thyroxine in pregnancy to maintain an euthyroid state to keep TSH ideally 2.5 mIU/l in the first trimester of pregnancy and TSH 3.0 mIU/l in the second and third trimester. Consequently, there is a need to start the substitution therapy as soon as diagnosis of subclinical and /or overt hypotyroidism is established, and in majority of euthyroid women with autoimmune thyroid disease there is a need to start therapy as well. Most women on levothyroxine therapy before pregnancy require an increase in dose when pregnant. As maternal thyroid disease is a quite prevalent condition and often asymptomatic, but easily diagnosed and for which an effective, safe and cheap treatment is available, endocrinological societies including ČES ČLS JEP worldwide are suggesting the need of thyroid dysfunction screening as a simple prevention attitude. Hormone determination of TSH and TPOab antibodies should be performed early during the first trimester, using trimester-specific reference values. Furthermore, adequate iodine supplementation during pregnancy is critical and if feasible it should be initiated before the woman attempts to conceive.


Markers of hyperinflammation.
The inflammatory events responsible for clinical derangements such as severe infection, sepsis, or septic shock are thought to be similar. Defining different mediators of inflammatory response, and describing failures of multiple immunomodulator studies to reduce morbidity and mortality of clinical sepsis, the author reconsiders the pathogenesis of sepsis. Septic patients may undergo various stages of disease. In each stage a pro- or a anti-inflammatory process may be predominant. Moreover different subgroups of infection, e.g. fungal sepsis, have different characteristics compared to bacterial infection. Future experiments and clinical trial may help defining circumstances under which inhibiting or augmenting endogenous mediators may be a helpful adjunctive therapy for sepsis.


Age at death used to assess the effect of interhospital transfer of newborns.
In New York City, newborn units classified as level 1 (no intensive care) frequently transfer low-birth-weight infants to units classified as level 3 (complete intensive care), but level 2 units (those with intermediate levels of care) transfer rarely. As deaths occurring in the first hours of life are unlikely to be affected by infant transport services, early (first four hours), late (four hours to 28 days), and overall neonatal death rates were separately examined at each of the three levels of care for singleton live-births weighing 501 to 2,250 g. As previously reported, overall neonatal mortality (adjusted for birth weight, gestational age, sex, and race) for births at level 1 units (163.0/1,000) and level 2 units (168.1/1,000) was similar, and rates for births at level 3 (128.0/1,000) were significantly lower. Mortality up to four hours, and from four hours to 28 days, however, differed between level 1 and level 2 units. Among early deaths, the mortality for level 1 births was 68.0/1,000, significantly higher than both the rate for level 2 births (46.0/1,000) and for level 3 births (40.6/1,000). Between four hours and 28 days, mortality relative to level 3 improved for level 1 births, but worsened for level 2 births. For infants with birth weight less than 1,251 g, for whom transport rates from level 1 units are highest, mortality in level 1 births was higher than in level 2 births only until 18 hours of life; thereafter, level 2 mortality was higher.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Citric acid demineralization of cementum and dentin: the effect of the storage medium.
The purpose of this study was to see if the root surface topography of teeth, stored in saline and subsequently treated with citric acid, differred from the root surface topography of teeth that were treated immediately upon extraction, 12 freshly extracted adult human permanent teeth, with proximal surfaces free of caries and periodontal disease, were treated in succession. The crowns were removed at the level of periodontal attachment, the teeth sectioned buccal-lingually and a treatment area deligniated on each proximal section. The treatment area of 6 teeth was root planed to expose dentin (D) and scaled to remove adherent tissue and leave a cementum surfaces (C) on the other 6 teeth. A coronal-apical groove down the middle of the treatment area divided it into approximately equal parts or experimental regions. One proximal section of each tooth was placed in physiologic saline (S) and treated after 6 weeks of storage while the other proximal section was freshly treated (F). Treatment consisted of applying a 30% citric acid (CA) solution (pH = 1.60) for 5 min. Cotton pellets soaked in the citric acid solution were placed (P) on one half of the experimental area and heavily burnished (B) on the other half. Treatment areas were subsequently prepared for scanning electron microscopy analysis. Assessment was made of (i) the % of surface area tufted, (ii) fibril tufting depth (0.3) and (iii) fibril tufting density (1.3). Similarities were found in the data for both storage methods (F and S) across each application technique (P or B) and each tooth surface (D or C) with respect to the (i) % area tufted and (ii) frequency distribution of tufting depth scores. As for the application techniques, the data for burnishing was greater than placed across each storage method (F or S) and each tooth surface (D or C) for the same two parameters. The results of the study indicated that 6-week physiologic saline storage does not affect root surface demineralization by citric acid, as assessed by SEM.


Adenosine deaminase covalently linked to soluble dextran. The effect of immobilization on thermodynamic and kinetic parameters.
Dextran-linked adenosine deaminase (EC 22.214.171.124) has been prepared. The polymer-linked enzyme possesses an optimal enzymatic activity of 27 units/mg immobilized protein (non-bound enzyme: 200 units/mg protein). Support-bound adenosine deaminase (4.5 microgram protein/mg dextran) shows an enhanced heat stability, a moderately increased Km, and a decreased V value compared to those of the free enzyme. The pH dependences of V and pKm values of dextran-linked adenosine deaminase show only two inflection points compared to three for the free enzyme, which are equivalent to the pK values of the enzyme. Since the missing third inflection point (pH 9.8) can be assigned to the pK value of the epsilon-amino group of lysyl residues, it can be concluded, that immobilization of adenosine deaminase on cyanogen-bromide-activated dextran took place via these lysyl residues. The remaining pK values found from the other inflection points are moderately shifted owing to the altered secondary structure. From the temperature dependence of the enzymatic activity, a 40% decrease of the activation energy of the support-bound enzyme was found, indicating diffusion controlled deamination. The immobilization of adenosine deaminase results in a fluorescence quenching of 80%, without shifting the ultraviolet maximum of the emission spectrum. As already shown for unmodified dextran, the matrix of polymer-linked adenosine deaminase is degradable by a bacterial endodextranase (EC 22.214.171.124).


[Changes of pH and kinematic viscosity of the contents of gall-bladder at the pre-gallstone stage of cholelithiasis].
The aim of the work was to study the indicators of pH and kinematic viscosity of the contents of the gall-bladder at receiving B-portion and their changes after a 7-hour period according to the biliary sediment of patients and to establish their link to the infection. Total 31 patients aged 25-55 with biliary sediment in lumens of their gall-bladders (a general group) and 5 healthy patients (a control group) were studied by us. In all cases the markers of the virus of Hepatitis B in blood serum were determined and ultrasonic examination of gall-bladder was carried out by us prior to the duodenal intubation. B-portion was subjected to bacteriological research for aerobes and anaerobs, and pH and kinematic viscosity (eta=mm(2)/sec) were determined. The patients from the control as well as from the general group after a 7-hour period were redetermined pH and Kinematic viscosity of B-portion. Kinematic viscosity was determined with a capillary viscosimeter, and pH was fixed by a method of potentiometer. Statistical treatment was undertaken by the method of ANOLA p<0,05. During the duodenal intubation the mean value of pH within the control group was fixed at 6.74, and the mean value of the kinematic viscosity was 1.34, and after a 7-hour period the same indicators constituted 6.87 and 1.35 mm(2)/sec, respectively. The same indicators within the general group during duodenal intubation were the following: 7.26 and 1.99 mm(2)/sec, and after a 7-hour period the same indicators were 7.78 and 2.19 mm(2)/sec, respectively. There was a significant statistical difference between the mean values of pH and kinematic viscosity of the contents of gall-bladder of the patients from the control and general groups. During a 7-hour period, there was also a significant statistical difference between the changes of the same indicators. The difference was even greater in case of infection. Following the above-mentioned we can conclude that in case of sediment in the lumen of gall-bladder, inclination of pH to alkalinity and increase in kinematic viscosity of the contents is one of the most important criteria of lithogenicity of gall-bladder contents, and one of the reasons for such changes is chronic infection of a gall-bladder.


Integrated effect of microbial antagonist, organic amendment and fungicide in controlling seedling mortality (Rhizoctonia solani) and improving yield in pea (Pisum sativum L.).
The study evaluated the comparative performance of a few microbial antagonists, organic amendments and fungicides and their integration for the management of seedling mortality (Rhizoctonia solani Kühn) and yield improvement in pea (Pisum sativum L.). Before setting the experiment in field microplots, a series of in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to select a virulent isolate of R. solani, an effective antagonistic isolate of Trichoderma harzianum, a fungitoxic organic amendment and an appropriate fungicide. A greenhouse pathogenicity test compared differences in seedling mortality in pea inoculated by four isolates of R. solani and identified the isolate RS10 as the most virulent one. Among the 20 isolates screened in dual culture assay on PDA, T. harzianum isolate T-3 was found to show the highest (77.22%) inhibition of the radial growth of R. solani. A complete inhibition (100.00%) of colony growth of R. solani was observed when fungicide Bavistin 50 WP and Provax-200 at the rate of 100 and 250 ppm, respectively, were used, while Provax-200 was found to be highly compatible with T. harzianum. Mustard oilcake gave maximum inhibition (60.28%) of the radial growth of R. solani at all ratios, followed by sesame oilcake and tea waste. Integration of soil treatment with T. harzianum isolate T-3 and mustard oilcake and seed treatment with Provax-200 appeared to be significantly superior in reducing seedling mortality and improving seed yield in pea in comparison to any single or dual application of them in the experimental field. The research results will help growers develop integrated disease management strategies for the control of Rhizoctonia disease in pea. The research results show the need for an integrating selective microbial antagonist, organic amendment and fungicide to achieve appropriate management of seedling mortality (R. solani) and increase of seed yield in pea.


Ensiling hybrid Pennisetum with lactic acid bacteria or organic acids improved the fermentation quality and bacterial community.
The aim of this study was to compare the effect of different additives on nutritional quality, fermentation variables and microbial diversity of hybrid Pennisetum silages. A control (CK - no additives) and seven treatments were tested, namely, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum (LP), Lentilactobacillus buchneri (LB), propionic acid (PA), calcium propionate (CAP), LP + LB; LP + PA and LP + CAP. In comparison with CK, all treatments increased the contents of crude protein and lactic acid, decreased the content of butyric acid, and altered the bacterial communities of the silage. Except for the CAP and LP + CAP treatments, the additives decreased pH and the ammonia nitrogen:total nitrogen (NH3-N:TN) ratio. The results of principal component analysis revealed that the PA, LP + PA and LP + LB treatments ranked as the top three silages. The PA and LP + PA treatments exhibited higher water-soluble carbohydrate content, but lower pH, and NH3-N:TN ratio than the other treatments. With the PA and LP + PA treatments, the relative abundances of Lactobacillus and Enterobacter decreased, and of Proteobacteria and Delftia increased, while the carbohydrate metabolism of the microorganisms improved. The LP and LB treatments reduced the Shannon and Simpson diversities. In the beta diversity, PA and LP + PA separated from the other treatments, indicating that there were differences in the composition of bacterial species. The relative abundance of Lactobacillus increased in the LP and LB treatments and of Leucanostoc and Weissella increased in the CAP and LP + CAP treatments. In summary, the addition of L. plantarum, L. buchneri, propionic acid, calcium propionate, and their combinations improved fermentation quality, inhibited harmful bacteria and conserved the nutrients of hybrid Pennisetum.


Fabrication of titania nanotube arrays in viscous electrolytes.
This study probes the dependence of titania nanotube arrays nanoarchitecture on different synthesis parameters in viscous electrolytes. Titania nanotube arrays were synthesized in glycerol, ethylene glycol and carboxymethylcellulose as base materials. The effects of anodization voltage and time, as well as chemical composition and pH of the electrolyte bath were studied. Nanotube arrays with an inner diameter ranging from 16 to 91 nm, and wall thickness ranging from 7 to 29 nm were fabricated in a glycerol-water electrolyte. Water content of 5 wt% or higher was found to be essential for nanotubes fabrication in glycerol electrolyte. Diameter and length were influenced by varying water content above 5 wt%. Nanotube length was found to be time dependent at high pH values. A pH value of 6 was favorable for fabrication of highly ordered and continuous nanotube arrays with length up to 900 nm. Using modified ethylene glycol (containing 2 wt% and 0.5 wt% NH4F) instead of glycerol, resulted in nanotube length up to 430 nm after 1.5 hr anodization time. With a minor modification of electrochemical anodization cell, we successfully fabricated double-sided titania nanotube arrays layers with a total thickness of 9.5 microm for the first time. Nantube arrays were successfully fabricated in 2 wt% sodium carboxy mythylcellulose aqueous electrolyte (CMC electrolyte). These nanotube arrays had an inner diameter of 42 nm similar to those fabricated in 2 wt% urea-ethylene glycol electrolyte but their length was 450 nm.


Double-blind comparison between two new topical corticosteroids, halcinonide 0.1% and clobetasol propionate cream 0.05%.
A new steroid, halcinonide, was compared with clobetasol propionate cream in 100 patients with a variety of skin disorders. The study was conducted as a double-blind, paired comparison with the preparations being given twice daily. Results obtained over a 14-day period of therapy showed remarkably similar efficacy for both preparations.


Unicystic ameloblastoma: a prognostically distinct entity.
The occurrence of unicystic ameloblastoma has been studied in 20 patients presenting with unilocular cystic lesions whose clinical, radiographic and gross features were those on non-neoplastic cysts. In the majority of these, the lesion mimicked dentigerous cyst. The rate of recurrence for this group of lesions as determined by long term follow-up observation available for the majority of patients was distinctly lower than that associated with multicystic character of the lesion throughout its course, is indicative of a much less aggressive variety of neoplasm. The adequacy of simple enucleation as a modality of treatment in the majority of patients with this type of lesion is suggested. It was not possible to answer the question whether or not the ameloblastoma began in antecedent non-neoplastic cyst.


Measurement systems for cell adhesive forces.
Cell adhesion to the extracellular matrix (ECM) involves integrin receptor-ligand binding and clustering to form focal adhesion (FA) complexes, which mechanically link the cell's cytoskeleton to the ECM and regulate fundamental cell signaling pathways. Although elucidation of the biochemical events in cell-matrix adhesive interactions is rapidly advancing, recent studies show that the forces underlying cell-matrix adhesive interactions are also critical to cell responses. Therefore, multiple measurement systems have been developed to quantify the spatial and temporal dynamics of cell adhesive forces, and these systems have identified how mechanical events influence cell phenotype and FA structure-function relationships under physiological and pathological settings. This review focuses on the development, methodology, and applications of measurement systems for probing (a) cell adhesion strength and (b) 2D and 3D cell traction forces.


Surgical management of mechanical valve thrombosis: twenty-six years' experience.
In the present study, the authors investigated the management of mechanical valve thrombosis (MVT). From January 1981 through March 2006, 2,908 mechanical valve replacements were performed in 2,298 patients at our institution. Twenty (0.87%) patients presented with MVT, 14 (70.0%) were women, and the mean age of the patients was 42.0+/-14.0 (27-66) yr. Thrombosis involved mitral in 14 (70.0%), aortic in 2 (10.0%), tricuspid/aortic in 1 (5%), and tricuspid in 3 (15%). The interval from first operation to valve thrombosis was 121.8+/-75.4 (0.9-284.7) months. The most frequent clinical presentation was heart failure (13/20, 65%), and predisposing causes of MVT were: poor compliance with warfarin (7), pregnancy (5), drug interaction (2), and unknown (6). All 20 patients underwent valve replacement: mitral (14, 70.0%), tricuspid (3, 15.0%), aortic (2, 10%) and tricuspid/aortic (1, 5%). One early death occurred due to left ventricular failure, but no late mortality occurred during 63.3+/-49.9 (0.5-165.1) months of follow-up. MVT was treated successfully, and pregnancy and inadequate anticoagulation were found to influence the occurrence of this rare complication.


Amplification of IMR-32 clones 8, G21, and N-myc in human neuroblastoma xenografts.
Amplification of clones 8, G21, and N-myc, which were derived from human neuroblastoma cell lines IMR-32 and NB-19, were studied in nine neuroblastoma xenografts. N-myc was amplified from 50- to 120-fold in eight of nine xenografts, clone 8 was amplified in five of the xenografts, and clone G21 was amplified in four of these five. Each of these clones was localized by in situ hybridization to homogeneously staining regions in metaphase spreads of xenograft chromosomes. In one xenograft a DNA rearrangement of clone 8 was observed, and only two of the sequences detected by G21 were amplified. Restriction enzyme mapping indicated that the rearrangement within clone 8 occurred at a position close to the rearrangement previously noted in neuroblastoma cell line NB-9.


Directed seed dispersal of Piper by Carollia perspicillata and its effect on understory plant diversity and folivory.
Directed dispersal occurs when seeds are differentially deposited to sites where offspring survivorship is higher than at randomly chosen sites. Traditionally, characteristics of the dispersal target sites that could increase survivorship of the dispersed plants are thought to be intrinsic to the sites. If directed dispersal is constant over extended periods of time, however, it is likely that nonrandom patterns of dispersal could modify the ecological characteristics of the target site in ways that could increase survivorship and fitness of the dispersed plants. Here we report patterns of Piper diversity (richness, equitability, and similarity) and Piper folivory within plots near natural or artificial roosts of Carollia perspicillata vs. similar plots without bat roosts. Plots with bat roosts, both natural and artificial, had significantly higher Piper species diversity. Additionally, we found that plots with a higher Piper species diversity showed less specialist folivory, higher generalist folivory, and lower total herbivore leaf damage than plots with low Piper diversity. Finally, plots with bat roosts also showed less specialist folivory, lower generalist folivory, and lower total folivory when compared to plots without roosts. We propose that long-lasting nonrandom patterns of seed dispersal can change the local ecological characteristics of target sites via changes in plant diversity, and that these changes are likely to reduce the local rates of folivory and, therefore, increase seed and adult plant survivorship.


Anatomical reconstruction of donor site after large iliac crest graft harvest with equivalent iliac crest allograft. A prospective controlled study.
Iliac bone graft harvesting is a common procedure in spinal surgery and trauma center for spinal fusion and nonunion of the extremities. To compare the pain and cosmetic outcomes of patients undergoing iliac crest anatomical reconstruction using equivalent iliac crest allograft (R group) with those of patients without reconstruction of the iliac crest defect (NR group), a prospective nonrandomized controlled study was conducted. In R group, the intensity and prevalence of pain were significantly lower than those in NR group. Cosmetic outcome and satisfaction score were also significantly improved in R group. One patient of R group suffered from lipolysis and superficial infection which healed by regular dressing change for two weeks. There were no cases of allograft displacement, implant loosening, internal fixation breakage or immunological rejection. Seven patients in NR group had significant pain related to the tenting of skin over the defect. Radiologic incorporation of pelvis was documented in all patients except four having partial re-sorption of the allograft. Early fibrous healing and the late creeping substitution were noted in all patients of R group. Equivalent iliac crest allograft provides an effective alternative for iliac crest anatomical reconstruction, leading to reduced donor site pain and better cosmesis.