OLED catheters for inner-body phototherapy: A case of type 2 diabetes mellitus improved via duodenal photobiomodulation.
Phototherapeutics has shown promise in treating various diseases without surgical or drug interventions. However, it is challenging to use it in inner-body applications due to the limited light penetration depth through the skin. Therefore, we propose an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) catheter as an effective photobiomodulation (PBM) platform useful for tubular organs such as duodenums. A fully encapsulated highly flexible OLED is mounted over a round columnar structure, producing axially uniform illumination without local hotspots. The biocompatible and airtight OLED catheter can operate in aqueous environments for extended periods, meeting the essential requirements for inner-body medical applications. In a diabetic Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rat model, the red OLED catheter delivering 798 mJ of energy is shown to reduce hyperglycemia and insulin resistance compared to the sham group. Results are further supported by the subdued liver fibrosis, illustrating the immense potential of the OLED-catheter-based internal PBM for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and other diseases yet to be identified.


Parental, child and socio-contextual factors associated with parenting self-efficacy among parents of children aged 0-7 years old: the CIKEO study.
A high parenting self-efficacy (PSE) has been associated with positive parenting and positive child development. However, there is limited and inconsistent information on factors associated with PSE. To investigate factors associated with PSE in parents of children aged 0-7 years old, and to explore whether the associations were different between mothers and fathers. We performed a cross-sectional analysis of the baseline data from a prospective cohort study: the CIKEO study. A total of 1012 parents (mean age = 33.8, SD = 5.0) completed self-reported measure of PSE and 18 potential factors associated with PSE. Multivariable models revealed that lower parenting stress, fewer child behavior problems, better eating behavior, better parental and child general health, a smaller number of children living in the household, higher perceived level of social support and having a migration background were associated with higher levels of PSE (p < 0.05). The association between family functioning and PSE differed between mothers and fathers (p for interaction = 0.003): with beta and 95% confidence interval being: 1.29 (- 2.05, 0.87), and 0.23 (- 0.46, 3.29), respectively. A range of parental, child and social-contextual factors in relation to PSE were identified. The patterns of associations for most of the factors were similar among mothers and fathers. However, the association between family functioning and PSE might differ for mothers and fathers. Our findings are relevant for tailoring and implementing successful interventions and effective policy making in child care. Netherlands National Trial Register number NL7342. Date of registration: 05-November-2018, retrospectively registered.


[Trauma care management].
Optimal outcome in the treatment of multiple trauma patients requires an initial management fulfilling a high standard of quality assurance. A prerequisite is the availability of adequate resources at all times with respect to personnel, technical equipment, and emergency room design. The aim is-based on standardized and prioritized clinical pathways and algorithms-to identify and treat not only life-threatening and debilitating but all other injuries in a timely fashion. Diagnostic and therapeutic measures to manage airway, breathing, and circulatory problems (including transfusion and surgery for bleeding control) have priority, even over the operative treatment of severe head injuries. With respect to severe intra-abdominal and retroperitoneal injuries, the concept of damage control surgery has reached world wide acceptance. However, many parenchymal lesions of intra-abdominal organs can be managed nonoperatively. Similarly, damage control orthopedics for the initial management of major fractures with initial temporary and minimally invasive fracture stabilization followed by definitive osteosynthesis as soon as the patient has stable organ functions is gaining more acceptance. Maintainance of and improvement in the quality of care requires standardized documentation, regular analysis, and feedback in an internal quality management process as well as participation in an external quality program such as the Trauma Registry of the German Society for Accident Surgery.


Medicaid Eligibility and Time to Re-incarceration Among Previously Incarcerated Subjects With Schizophrenia.
Background: Many persons with severe mental illness qualify for Medicaid coverage. However, under federal law, states must either suspend or terminate eligibility once they are incarcerated. We hypothesize that prompt re-acquisition of Medicaid eligibility following release from incarceration lowers the risk of re-incarceration. Objective: To assess the relationship between Medicaid eligibility and risk of re-incarceration among previously incarcerated schizophrenia diagnosed subjects. Methods: Study subjects were selected between January 1, 2006 and September 30, 2011 from a single state Medicaid database that was combined with department of corrections data. Subjects were included if they had a schizophrenia diagnosis (International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision, Clinical Modification [ICD- 9-CM] code 295.xx), were between the ages of 18 and 62, and had been released from incarceration. Covariates included age, race, gender, marital status, and reason for incarceration. Time to Medicaid eligibility after release from incarceration, cumulative days of eligibility, and whether they were eligible on the re-incarceration date were evaluated in independent models. One and three-year Cox Regression models analyses (p<0.05) were used to evaluate the hazard for re-incarceration. Results: The 932 subjects were 26.5% white, 73.7% male and were, on average, 37.6 years old on their index date (i.e., incarceration release date). They were 73.5% single or divorced and 12.7% were incarcerated for a substance abuse violation. In the 1-year follow-up period, 110 subjects (11.8%) were re-incarcerated. In the 3-year follow-up period 209 (22.4%) were re-incarcerated. Age (in years) was the only significant predictor of re-incarceration for the 1-year models (hazard ratio [HR]=0.976; confidence interval [CI]=0.957, 0.994). Eligibility was a significant predictor in the 3-year follow-up models. A longer 'time to first eligibility' (HR=1.046; CI=1.017, 1.075 was associated with a greater hazard for re-incarceration. Being eligible at the time of re-incarceration (HR=0.659; CI=0.498, 0.870) was associated with a lower hazard, and the cumulative number of months of eligibility (HR=0.978; CI=0.958, 0.997) and age were associated with a lower hazard for re-incarceration (HR=0.986; CI=0.973, 0.999). Conclusions: Access to Medicaid health services post-release may reduce the risk of re-incarceration.


Response of plasma adrenocorticotropin to injections of L-glutamate or norepinephrine in the dorsal rostral pons of cats.
Previously, electrical stimulation of several nuclei in the dorsal rostral pons of the cat was shown to modulate the release of ACTH. However, the stimulation may have activated fibers of passage. To determine if there are specific groups of neurons within the pons that modulate plasma ACTH when stimulated with glutamate, 30 cats were prepared acutely under chloralose anesthesia. Microinjections of several agents were made at each of 2 sites in the pons of each cat. ACTH was measured by RIA. Injections of 150 mM L-glutamate (100 nl/min.2 min) elicited increases in arterial pressure that were related to the loci of injection. The responses did not decrease significantly when the rate and volume of the injection were reduced by half. Eight sites in a lateral area that extended rostrally from the parabracheal nucleus elicited a significant pressor response that was greater in duration and magnitude than a second significant pressor response that was obtained from 18 sites in a medial area that included the rostral locus coeruleus. Pressor responses did not occur when 0.1 mM norepinephrine or vehicle was substituted for L-glutamate in any area. The larger, but not the smaller, dose of L-glutamate elicited changes in plasma ACTH that were related to the loci of injection. Eight sites in a caudal area that included the ventral locus coeruleus and was within the medial pressor area elicited a significant increase in ACTH. Seven sites in an area rostral to the ventral locus coeruleus that included the rostromedial locus subcoeruleus elicited a significant decrease in plasma ACTH. ACTH responses were not observed when 0.1 mM norepinephrine or vehicle was substituted for L-glutamate in any area. In conclusion, the ventral locus coeruleus and the rostrally adjacent locus subcoeruleus contain neurons with receptors for L-glutamate that can modulate plasma ACTH and arterial pressure independently of a second pathway that includes the parabracheal region and influences arterial pressure. Because the neurons in the coeruleus are known to respond to hemodynamic input, they may participate in the hemodynamic control of ACTH release.


Enhanced detection of low concentration volatile organic compounds using advanced doped zinc oxide sensors.
Pure zinc oxide nanoparticles, as well as those doped with 3% calcium, aluminum, and gallium, were synthesized using a sol-gel method and then deposited onto an alumina substrate for sensing tests. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized using a variety of techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-VIS-NIR absorption spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) measurements, to examine their structural, morphological, and optical properties. The prepared nanoparticles were found to have the hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO with a P63mC space group. The UV-Vis-IR spectra showed that the samples are highly absorbent in the UV range, while the PL spectra confirmed the presence of many defects in the ZnO structure, such as oxygen vacancies and zinc interstitials. The doped samples exhibited more defects than the pure sample. SEM images of the deposited film surface showed agglomerates with a spherical shape and confirmed the nanometer scale size of our prepared samples, as corroborated by the TEM images. The EDX spectra indicated the high purity of the ZnO deposited films, with a high presence of Zn and O and the presence of the doped elements (Ca, Al, and Ga) in each doped sample. Sensing tests were performed on ZnO, Ca3%-doped ZnO (C3ZO), Al3%-doped ZnO (A3ZO), and Ga3%-doped ZnO (G3ZO) sensors in the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) gases such as ethanol, formaldehyde, methanol, and acetone at low concentrations. The sensors exhibited high responses to low ppm level concentrations of the VOCs gases. At a low operational temperature of 250 °C, the C3ZO sensor had the highest response to 5 ppm of ethanol, methanol, and formaldehyde gases compared to the pure and other doped sensors. Additionally, the A3ZO sensor exhibited the highest response to acetone gas. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the doping of zinc oxide can enhance the low concentration detection of VOCs gases, with the C3ZO and A3ZO sensors showing the highest response to specific gases.


Probing the ligand-induced conformational change in HLA-DR1 by selective chemical modification and mass spectrometric mapping.
Peptide binding induces conformational changes in class II MHC proteins that have been characterized using a variety of hydrodynamic and spectroscopic approaches, but these changes have not been clearly localized within the overall class II MHC structure. In this study, empty and peptide-loaded complexes of HLA-DR1, a common class II MHC variant, were chemically modified using the side chain-specific chemical modifiers p-hydroxyphenylglyoxal (arginine), tetranitromethane (tyrosine), N-bromosuccinimide (tryptpophan), and NHS-biotin (lysine). Modified proteins were subjected to in-gel digestion with trypsin and subsequent analysis by MALDI/MS. Three arginine residues and two lysine residues were differentially reactive, modified in the empty form but not the peptide-loaded form of the protein, indicating that the chemical reactivity of these regions differs in the two conformations. Three of the differential modifications were located on a single lateral face of the protein, indicating that this region is involved in the conformational change. Additionally, a number of lysine and tyrosine modification sites were present in both protein conformations. Overall, the pattern of reactivity is inconsistent with the idea that empty MHC molecules exist as molten globules or other partially unfolded intermediates, and suggests that the peptide-induced conformational change is localized to only a few regions of the protein.


Superficial suppurative necrolytic dermatitis in a miniature schnauzer associated with the application of an imidacloprid and flumethrin collar.
Superficial suppurative necrolytic dermatitis (SSND) of miniature schnauzers is a rare cutaneous and visceral reaction pattern associated with shampoo. This report describes SSND in a miniature schnauzer associated with application of an imidacloprid and flumethrin collar. Histopathology was consistent with SSND. Lesions resolved after treatment with methylprednisolone and marbofloxacin.


Use of Lesser Trochanter Profile as a Rotational Alignment Guide in Intramedullary Nailing for Femoral Shaft Fracture.
Malrotation after nailing of femoral shaft fractures occurs in about 25% of cases. It can cause substantial functional problems. The lesser trochanter (LT) profile has been used to assess rotational alignment. However, the extent to which the LT profile is symmetrical between limbs, whether the LT profile varies as a function of age or sex, and the efficacy of the LT profile technique remain unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine if there was a significant side-to-side length difference in the LT profile (LTD) according to age and sex. We attempted to determine the amount of medial prominence of the lesser trochanter relative to the medial cortex of the femoral shaft (the LT profile) using 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) images of normal femora obtained bilaterally (366 subjects) in anatomic positions. We also compared the left and right sides to determine the amount of natural asymmetry by age and sex. In addition, we compared the side-to-side difference in the LT version with the LTD to determine whether the LTD represented the difference in femoral rotation. The LTD was <4 mm (meaning an LT version difference of <10°) in 83% of the subjects, but was ≥4 mm (an LT version difference of ≥10°) in 17%. Subset analysis demonstrated that the differences were greatest in women >70 years of age. The largest LTD (both sexes) was observed in individuals over 70 years of age (2.62 ± 1.37 mm, compared with <55 years: 1.55 ± 1.36 mm and 55 to 70 years: 2.27 ± 1.70 mm). There was no significant difference between sexes in the under-70 age groups. However, the LTD was significantly greater in women over 70 years than in men over 70 years (3.10 ± 1.42 versus 2.41 ± 1.30 mm). Since the LTD demonstrated side-to-side symmetry within 4 mm, or 10° of rotation, in 83% of all subjects, we consider the LT profile to be useful as a guide to assess rotational reduction clinically. However, surgeons should recognize that, in 17% of cases, using this technique could result in malrotation of ≥10°. The rate of malrotation may be even higher in women over 70, for whom supplemental techniques to ensure correct rotation may be appropriate.


Black South African women on excursions: A reflection on the quality of township life for seniors.
Club excursions afford unique learning experiences for senior black women which redefine roles for older township women and reinforce positive intergenerational relationships. Personal accounts of the highlights of excursions out of townships obtained from over 120 female club members in focus group interviews contrast sharply with their daily experience of the depressed quality of life in the townships. Evidence suggests that participation in senior excursions, which are commonly viewed as a luxury in developing contexts, enhances the social prestige of older women in the community. From a human resources development viewpoint, it is argued that excursions which inspire self-confidence and widen horizons may assist the older generation to make a greater contribution to shaping community life in post-apartheid South Africa.


Are γ-secretase inhibitors detrimental for Alzheimer's disease patients?
The recent failure of semagacestat in two large Phase III studies questions the value of γ-secretase inhibitors in treating Alzheimer's disease. Understanding the reasons of this setback may be important for the future research on effective treatments for this devastating disease.


Leading in a time of change: assuming interim academic administrator positions.
This article is about interim leadership in academic settings, specifically at the level of dean of an educational program in nursing. The interim administrator is often an invisible actor in the history of a school or department. However, they are key players in maintaining stability, facilitating change, and providing a transitional pathway for the new, permanent leader. An essential theme is that interim administrators do real work that has consequences, and make real contributions to institutional history and continuity. This article provides guidance to those considering or serving in interim positions. Guidelines are suggested for the stages of evaluating and serving in interim positions: assessing the request to serve, making a decision about accepting an interim position, negotiating an interim position, and acting out the interim position, using the analogy of a theatrical play and guideposts for actors.


Construction of a Mesoporous Ceria Hollow Sphere/Enzyme Nanoreactor for Enhanced Cascade Catalytic Antibacterial Therapy.
Nanozyme has been regarded as one of the antibacterial agents to kill bacteria via a Fenton-like reaction in the presence of H2O2. However, it still suffers drawbacks such as insufficient catalytic activity in near-neutral conditions and the requirement of high H2O2 levels, which would minimize the side effects to healthy tissues. Herein, a mesoporous ceria hollow sphere/enzyme nanoreactor is constructed by loading glucose oxidase in the mesoporous ceria hollow sphere nanozyme. Due to the mesoporous framework, large internal voids, and high specific surface area, the obtained nanoreactor can effectively convert the nontoxic glucose into highly toxic hydroxyl radicals via a cascade catalytic reaction. Moreover, the generated glucose acid can decrease the localized pH value, further boosting the peroxidase-like catalytic performance of mesoporous ceria. The generated hydroxyl radicals could damage severely the cell structure of the bacteria and prevent biofilm formation. Moreover, the in vivo experiments demonstrate that the nanoreactor can efficiently eliminate 99.9% of bacteria in the wound tissues and prevent persistent inflammation without damage to normal tissues in mice. This work provides a rational design of a nanoreactor with enhanced catalytic activity, which can covert glucose to hydroxyl radicals and exhibits potential applications in antibacterial therapy.


Bromophenols from red algae.
3,5-Dibromo-p-hydroxybenzyl alcohol is reported as a natural constituent of Odonthalia dentata and Rhodomela confervoides. The amounts isolated, based on the fresh weight of the tissue, were 0.024 and 0.003 percent, respectively. A major phenolic compound in both algae was 2,3-dibromo-4,5-dihydroxybenzyl alcohol.


Granzyme B and perforin are important for regulatory T cell-mediated suppression of tumor clearance.
Granzyme B is important for the ability of NK cells and CD8(+) T cells to kill their targets. However, we showed here that granzyme B-deficient mice clear both allogeneic and syngeneic tumor cell lines more efficiently than do wild-type (WT) mice. To determine whether regulatory T (Treg) cells utilize granzyme B to suppress immune responses against these tumors, we examined the expression and function of granzyme B in Treg cells. Granzyme B was not expressed in naive Treg cells but was highly expressed in 5%-30% of CD4(+)Foxp3(+) Treg cells in the tumor environment. Adoptive transfer of WT Treg cells, but not granzyme B- or perforin-deficient Treg cells, into granzyme B-deficient mice partially restored susceptibility to tumor growth; Treg cells derived from the tumor environment could induce NK and CD8(+) T cell death in a granzyme B- and perforin-dependent fashion. Granzyme B and perforin are therefore relevant for Treg cell-mediated suppression of tumor clearance in vivo.


Thermococcus camini sp. nov., a hyperthermophilic and piezophilic archaeon isolated from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
A coccoid-shaped, strictly anaerobic, hyperthermophilic and piezophilic organoheterotrophic archaeon, strain Iri35cT, was isolated from a hydrothermal chimney rock sample collected at a depth of 2300 m at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (Rainbow vent field). Cells of strain Iri35cT grew at NaCl concentrations ranging from 1-5 % (w/v) (optimum 2.0 %), from pH 5.0 to 9.0 (optimum 7.0-7.5), at temperatures between 50 and 90 °C (optimum 75-80 °C) and at pressures from 0.1 to at least 50 MPa (optimum: 10-30 MPa). The novel isolate grew on complex organic substrates, such as yeast extract, tryptone, peptone or beef extract, preferentially in the presence of elemental sulphur or l-cystine; however, these molecules were not necessary for growth. Its genomic DNA G+C content was 54.63 mol%. The genome has been annotated and the metabolic predictions are in accordance with the metabolic characteristics of the strain and of Thermococcales in general. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and concatenated ribosomal protein sequences showed that strain Iri35cT belongs to the genus Thermococcus, and is closer to the species T. celericrescens and T. siculi. Average nucleotide identity scores and in silico DNA-DNA hybridization values between the genome of strain Iri35cT and the genomes of the type species of the genus Thermococcus were below the species delineation threshold. Therefore, and considering the phenotypic data presented, strain Iri35cT is suggested to represent a novel species, for which the name Thermococcus camini sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain Iri35cT (=UBOCC M-2026T=DSM 111003T).


Chemical modification of dopamine beta-hydroxylase.
Dopamine beta-hydroxylase (3,4- dihydroxyphenylethylamine ,ascorbate:oxygen oxidoreductase (beta-hydroxylating), EC 18.104.22.168) is the terminal enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway of norepinephrine. Chemical modification studies of this enzyme were executed to investigate contributions of specific amino-acid side-chains to catalytic activity. Sulfhydryl reagents were precluded, since no free cysteine residue was detected upon titration of the denatured or native protein with 2-chloromercuri-4-nitrophenol. Incubation of enzyme with diazonium tetrazole caused inactivation of the protein coupled with extensive reaction of lysine and tyrosine residues. Reaction with iodoacetamide resulted in complete loss of enzymatic activity with reaction of approximately three histidine residues; methionine reaction was also observed. Modification of the enzyme using diethylpyrocarbonate resulted in complete inactivation of the enzyme, and analysis of the reacted protein indicated a loss of approx. 1.7 histidine residues per protein monomer with no tyrosine or lysine modification observed. The correlation of activity loss with histidine modification supports the view that this residue participates in the catalytic function of dopamine beta-hydroxylase.


Effects of polymers on the cavitating flow around a cylinder: A large-scale molecular dynamics analysis.
The cavitation flow of linear-polymer solutions around a cylinder is studied by performing a large-scale molecular dynamics simulation. The addition of polymer chains remarkably suppresses cavitation. The polymers are stretched into a linear shape near the cylinder and entrained in the vortex behind the cylinder. As the polymers stretch, the elongational viscosity increases, which suppresses the vortex formation. Furthermore, the polymers exhibit an entropic elasticity owing to stretching. This elastic energy increases the local temperature, which inhibits the cavitation inception. These effects of polymers result in the dramatic suppression of cavitation.


Inhibition of in vitro lymphokine synthesis by glucocorticosteroids.
At pharmacological levels, glucocorticosteroids inhibited two antigen-induced lymphocyte functions, in vitro proliferation and lymphokine synthesis. Lymphocyte production of both macrophage chemotactic factor (CTX) and macrophage inhibition factor (MIF) were decreased in the presence of hydrocortisone. The corticosteroid also blocked the action of MIF on macrophages but did not interfere with the action of CTX on macrophages. Thus, steroids can suppress the immune response at two different stages: by blocking lymphocyte activation and mediator synthesis and also by interfering with the interaction of certain effector molecules with their target cells. Furthermore, these findings suggested that MIF and CTX have distinct mechanisms of action on the effector macrophages, one being sensitive and one resistant to steroids.


Vaccinia virus F11 promotes viral spread by acting as a PDZ-containing scaffolding protein to bind myosin-9A and inhibit RhoA signaling.
The vaccinia F11 protein promotes viral spread by modulating the cortical actin cytoskeleton by inhibiting RhoA signaling via an unknown mechanism. PDZ domains are widely conserved protein interaction modules whose occurrence in viral proteins is unprecedented. We found that F11 contains a central PDZ-like domain that is required to downregulate RhoA signaling and enhance viral spread. The PDZ-like domain interacts with the PDZ binding motif of the Rho GTPase-activating protein (GAP) Myosin-9A. In the absence of Myosin-9A, RhoA signaling is not inhibited, resulting in fewer actin tails and reduced virus release concomitant with less viral spread. The loss of Myosin-9A GAP activity or its ability to bind F11 also reduces actin tail formation. Furthermore, the ability of Myosin-9A to promote viral spread depends on F11 binding RhoA. Thus, F11 acts as a functional PDZ-containing scaffolding protein to inhibit RhoA signaling by binding Myosin-9A.


Asymmetric synthesis of congested spiro-cyclopentaneoxindoles via an organocatalytic cascade reaction.
Starting from simple alkylidene oxindoles and nitroketones, a highly stereoselective methodology was developed for the synthesis of spiro-cyclopentaneoxindoles with four consecutive stereogenic centers. Using an organocatalytic cascade of Michael and aldol reactions in the presence of a chiral thiourea catalyst products were obtained in moderate to high yields and excellent enantioselectivities. Nitro, ester, and hydroxyl groups were introduced to the spiro ring, which could be used to facilitate further functionalization of the products.


A common promoter hypomethylation signature in invasive breast, liver and prostate cancer cell lines reveals novel targets involved in cancer invasiveness.
Cancer invasion and metastasis is the most morbid aspect of cancer and is governed by different cellular mechanisms than those driving the deregulated growth of tumors. We addressed here the question of whether a common DNA methylation signature of invasion exists in cancer cells from different origins that differentiates invasive from non-invasive cells. We identified a common DNA methylation signature consisting of hyper- and hypomethylation and determined the overlap of differences in DNA methylation with differences in mRNA expression using expression array analyses. A pathway analysis reveals that the hypomethylation signature includes some of the major pathways that were previously implicated in cancer migration and invasion such as TGF beta and ERBB2 triggered pathways. The relevance of these hypomethylation events in human tumors was validated by identification of the signature in several publicly available databases of human tumor transcriptomes. We shortlisted novel invasion promoting candidates and tested the role of four genes in cellular invasiveness from the list C11orf68, G0S2, SHISA2 and TMEM156 in invasiveness using siRNA depletion. Importantly these genes are upregulated in human cancer specimens as determined by immunostaining of human normal and cancer breast, liver and prostate tissue arrays. Since these genes are activated in cancer they constitute a group of targets for specific pharmacological inhibitors of cancer invasiveness. Our study provides evidence that common DNA hypomethylation signature exists between cancer cells derived from different tissues, pointing to a common mechanism of cancer invasiveness in cancer cells from different origins that could serve as drug targets.


Simple cryoprotection and cell dissociation techniques for application of the comet assay to fresh and frozen rat tissues.
The single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet) assay has been widely used for genotoxicity studies in cell cultures, but its use in solid tissues is hindered by problems in isolation of cells and in cryopreservation techniques. Here, we used minced liver tissues from rats to compare a homogenization technique for isolation of nuclei with a collagenase digestion method (300 units/g liver at 37 degrees C for 20 min) for isolation of intact cells for subsequent comet assay We found that collagenase digestion was preferred to the homogenization technique in fresh tissues, but neither method prevented the extensive DNA damage caused by cryopreservation (-85 degrees C for 72 h). To minimize this damage, minced liver (1.0 g) and kidney (0.5 g) tissues were added to 20 ml of pre-cooled 10% glycerol or 10% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). We showed that cryoprotection with DMSO (-85 degrees C for 72 h and 3 weeks), and to a slightly lesser extent with glycerol (72 h), followed by collagenase digestion led to satisfactory recovery of liver cells with little or no DNA strand breakage. We then used DMSO as a cryoprotective agent to optimize the amount of collagenase and its incubation time in frozen liver and kidney tissues. We showed that the collagenase digestion at 150units/g liver and 300units/g kidney for 10 min produced highest cell numbers and minimal DNA strand breaks. We also validated these procedures by injection (i.p.) of rats with a known renal carcinogen, ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe/NTA). We showed that Fe/NTA strongly induced DNA strand breaks in both rat liver and kidney, while no DNA strand breakage occurred in these tissues from the control rats. In addition, no significant differences in strand breaks were found between fresh tissues and tissues treated with DMSO during freezing at - 85 degrees C for 72 h. Thus, the cryoprotection and the cell dissociation techniques developed here are satisfactory for preparing both fresh and frozen tissues for comet assay. These simple techniques are expected to expand greatly the usefulness and efficacy of the assay.


Personal use of work computers: distraction versus destruction.
To explore definitions, frequencies, and motivation for personal use of work computers, we analyzed 329 employees' responses to an online survey, which asked participants to self-report frequencies for 41 computer behaviors at work. This sample (65% female, 74% European ethnicity, mean age of 36 years) was formed by soliciting participants through Internet Usenet groups, emails, and listservs. Results support a distinction between computer use that is counterproductive and that which is merely not productive. Nonproductive Computer Use occurred more when employees were younger (r = -0.31, p < 0.01), had Internet access at work longer (r = +0.16, p < 0.01), and had faster Internet connections at work than at home (r = +0.14, p < 0.01). Counterproductive Computer Use occurred more when Internet access was newer (r = -0.16, p < 0.01) and employees knew others who had been warned about misuse (r = +0.11, p < 0.05). While most employees who engaged in computer counterproductivity also engaged in computer nonproductivity, the inverse was uncommon, suggesting the need to distinguish between the two when establishing computer policies and Internet accessibility.


Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Deficiency Improves Insulin Resistance With Reduced Adipose Tissue Inflammation in Obesity.
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), a rate-limiting enzyme of the pentose phosphate pathway, plays important roles in redox regulation and de novo lipogenesis. It was recently demonstrated that aberrant upregulation of G6PD in obese adipose tissue mediates insulin resistance as a result of imbalanced energy metabolism and oxidative stress. It remains elusive, however, whether inhibition of G6PD in vivo may relieve obesity-induced insulin resistance. In this study we showed that a hematopoietic G6PD defect alleviates insulin resistance in obesity, accompanied by reduced adipose tissue inflammation. Compared with wild-type littermates, G6PD-deficient mutant (G6PD(mut)) mice were glucose tolerant upon high-fat-diet (HFD) feeding. Intriguingly, the expression of NADPH oxidase genes to produce reactive oxygen species was alleviated, whereas that of antioxidant genes was enhanced in the adipose tissue of HFD-fed G6PD(mut) mice. In diet-induced obesity (DIO), the adipose tissue of G6PD(mut) mice decreased the expression of inflammatory cytokines, accompanied by downregulated proinflammatory macrophages. Accordingly, macrophages from G6PD(mut) mice greatly suppressed lipopolysaccharide-induced proinflammatory signaling cascades, leading to enhanced insulin sensitivity in adipocytes and hepatocytes. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of G6PD(mut) bone marrow to wild-type mice attenuated adipose tissue inflammation and improved glucose tolerance in DIO. Collectively, these data suggest that inhibition of macrophage G6PD would ameliorate insulin resistance in obesity through suppression of proinflammatory responses.


[Multi-modarity treatment for colon liver metastases using biliary stent-report of a case].
We report the case of a 69-year-old male patient with diagnoses of sigmoid colon cancer, ascending colon cancer, and metastatic liver cancer. We performed sigmoidectomy, right hemicolectomy, and central venous port placement. Because the liver metastasis was multifocal, chemotherapy was first initiated and then hepatic resection was performed. However, during chemotherapy, ileus, with a peritoneal dissemination to the small intestine, developed. Small intestine resection and radiation therapy to the pelvic region of the transition were further performed. Thereafter, obstructive jaundice due to obstruction of the bile duct in the hilar area developed, and therefore, we inserted a biliary stent. However, 2 years 9 months after the first medical examination, this patient died of colon cancer. The guidelines above, still chemotherapy developed, treatment policy of recurrent colorectal cancer, have recommended surgical resection with respect to what resectable as local therapy. This case shows that combination therapy with chemotherapy, surgical therapy, radiation therapy, and local therapy such as biliary stenting, is useful.


How safe are silicone breast implants?
The Food and Drug Administration's recent decision to limit the use of silicone gel breast implants was surrounded by a great deal of misleading information in the popular press. This article outlines the most relevant information available in the literature on the most often raised safety issues, including the carcinogenicity of silicone, speculation on a possible connection between silicone and autoimmune disease, the significance of gel bleed, and the effect of implants on mammography. In this attempt to better educate primary care physicians, we explain what is known about silicone gel breast implants so physicians can more wisely counsel their patients, who may be needlessly frightened by inaccuracies they have heard.


[Co-occurrence of anxiety and autism. The social error and allostatic load hypotheses].
INTRODUCTION. The concept of comorbidity in neurodevelopmental disorders like autism is sometimes ambiguous. The co-occurrence of anxiety and autism is clinically significant, yet it is not always easy to determine whether it is a 'real' comorbidity, where the two comorbid conditions are phenotypically and aetiologically identical to what that anxiety would mean in persons with a neurotypical development, whether it is an anxiety that has been phenotypically modified by the pathological processes of the autism spectrum disorders, thus resulting in a specific variant of these latter, or whether we are dealing with a false comorbidity resulting from rather inaccurate differential diagnoses. DEVELOPMENT. The article puts forward two hypotheses to explain this co-occurrence, which provide each other with feedback and are little more than our reflections on the scientific evidence we have available today, but expressed aloud. The first is the 'social error' hypothesis, which considers that the maladjustments in the social behaviour of persons with autism (which arises from alterations affecting the processes involved in social cognition) help to aggravate anxiety in autism. The second hypothesis, referring to allostatic load, holds that anxiety is a response to chronic stress, wear or exhaustion that is produced by the hyperactivation of certain structures in the limbic system. CONCLUSIONS. The prototypical manifestations of anxiety present in the person with autism are not always related with the same biopsychosocial variables as those observed in persons without autism. Evidence points to hyper-reactive flee-or-fight responses (hypervigilance) when the person finds him or herself outside their comfort zone, and supports the hypotheses of 'social error' and of decompensation of the allostatic mechanism that makes it possible to cope with stress.


[Downregulation of large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in paraventricular nucleus contributes to sympathoexcitation in rats with chronic heart failure].
Objective: To elucidate the association between large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels (BKCa) in the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVN) and sympathetic outflow in rats with chronic heart failure (CHF) . Methods: Male Wistar rats (6-7 weeks old) were randomized to sham operated group and CHF group (coronary artery ligation) . Two weeks after operation, BKCa inhibitor Iberiotoxin (IBTX) was infused into PVN by osmotic minipumps, rats were divided into following groups: sham+aCSF, CHF+aCSF, sham+low dose IBTX (0.125 nmol/nl) , CHF+low dose IBTX, sham+moderate dose IBTX (1.25 nmol/nl) , CHF+moderate dose IBTX, sham+ high dose IBTX (12.5 nmol/nl) , and CHF+high dose IBTX (n=6 each) . Additional rats were grouped as follows: sham+vehicle, sham+KCNMB4 knockdown (by rAAV2-KCNMB4 shRNA virus injection in PVN) , CHF+vehicle, CHF+ KCNMB4 knockdown group (n=6 each) . The cardiac function was determined by echocardiography, left ventricular hemodynamics were measured invasively, renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) was recorded at 6 weeks after coronary artery ligation or sham operation. The contents of norepinephrine (NE) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in plasma were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The protein and mRNA expression of KCNMB4 in PVN were measured by immunofluorescence staining, Western blot, and real-time PCR, mRNA expression of BKCa in PVN was detected by real-time PCR. Results: Compared with the sham operation group, the cardiac function of the heart failure group was significantly reduced (P<0.05) , and the plasma NE and the serum NT-proBNP were significantly elevated (P<0.05) . The protein and mRNA expression of KCNMB4 in PVN were obviously down-regulated in CHF rats (P<0.05) . After perfusion of IBTX or KCNMB4 knockdown by microinjection of rAAV2-KCNMB4 shRNA virus,right ventricular weight/body weight and lung weight/body weight ratio as well as left ventricular end-diastolic diameter were increased and left ventricular ejection fraction was decreased (all P<0.05) , the sympathetic driving indexes was increased in sham rats, changes of these parameters further aggravated in CHF rats (P<0.05) . KCNMB4 knockdown further downregulated protein expression in PVN of CHF rats. Conclusion: Downregulation and blunted function of BKCa in PVN may contribute to sympathoexcitation and deterioration of cardiac function in rats with chronic heart failure.


Induction of B1 receptors in streptozotocin diabetic rats: possible involvement in the control of hyperglycemia-induced glomerular Erk 1 and 2 phosphorylation.
We investigated the effects of a 3-week treatment with various combinations of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) and B1 and B2 bradykinin receptor (B1R and B2R) antagonists (B1A and B2A) and AT1 receptor antagonist on ERK 1 and 2 phosphorylation in isolated glomeruli from streptozotocin-treated diabetic rats (STZ rats). Body weight, glycemia, and blood pressure were monitored. The rats were divided into nine groups: (1) control; and groups 2-9 were STZ treated with (3) insulin, (4) ACEI, (5) ACEI + B1A, (6) ACEI + B2A, (7) B2A, (8) B1A, (9) AT1 antagonist. ERK 1 and 2 phosphorylation and expression of B1R and B2R were assessed by Western blot analysis. ERK 1 and 2 phosphorylation was higher in STZ rats; this activation was normalized by insulin and reduced by ACEI but not by AT1 antagonist. The reduction of ERK 1 and 2 phosphorylation by the ACEI was reversed by B1A and B2A. The induction of B1R was confirmed by increased expression of mRNA and B1 receptor protein. Since ERK 1 and 2 phosphorylation is an early event in the induction of matrix secretion and hyperproliferation associated with diabetic nephropathy, activation of B1R and B2R appears to be a useful pharmacological target in the management of this pathology.


[Early bacterial infections in 103 patients treated with bone marrow transplantation].
To analyse bacterial infections in the period immediately following bone-marrow transplantation. A retrospective study of 174 febrile episodes appearing on 103 patients treated with bone-marrow transplantation in 1990 and 1991 was carried out, special attention being paid to the bacterial infections. Virtually all patients (100/103) had at least one febrile episode, and its infectious character was documented in 54% of the instances. Gram-positive germs were most commonly present, 85% of the bacteria isolated, and coagulase-negative staphylococci, especially St epidermidis, predominated (60%). Different species of streptococci, mostly of the viridans group, were isolated in 22% of the blood cultures attained in the first febrile episodes. The mortality due to infection in the series as a whole was 4.8%. Infections by gram-positive germs, especially coagulase-negative staphylococci, are commonly found among the patients subjected to bone-marrow transplantation. Increased streptococci infections, mostly of the viridans group, are also appreciated. These facts, along with decreased number of gram-negative infections, must be born in mind when designing initial antimicrobial coverage for these patients.


State of the ablation nation: a review of ablative therapies for cure in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
Primary liver cancer, mainly hepatocellular carcinoma, is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Surgical management, either resection or transplantation, is considered definitive treatment, however, less than 20% of patients are ultimately candidates. Thermal ablation modalities such as radiofrequency ablation and microwave ablation have evolved such that these modalities have been applied with curative intent. Moreover, thermal ablation has demonstrated efficacy in treating early-stage tumors and can be offered as first-line treatment in patients with uncomplicated disease. Attributing to refinements in technology and techniques, recent studies evaluating stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy have shown promising results, while irreversible electroporation, an emerging modality, may further expand the role of ablative therapy in treating potentially resectable hepatocellular carcinoma.


Reduced expression of aconitase results in an enhanced rate of photosynthesis and marked shifts in carbon partitioning in illuminated leaves of wild species tomato.
Wild species tomato (Lycopersicon pennellii) plants bearing a genetic lesion in the gene encoding aconitase (Aco-1; aconitate hydratase EC 188.8.131.52) were characterized at molecular and biochemical levels. The genetic basis of this lesion was revealed by cloning the wild-type and mutant alleles. The mutation resulted in lowered expression of the Aco-1 transcript and lowered levels of both cytosolic and mitochondrial aconitase protein and activity. After in silico analysis, we concluded that in the absence of a recognizable target sequence, the best explanation for the dual location of this protein is inefficient targeting. Biochemical analysis of leaves of the Aco-1 accession suggested that they exhibited a restricted flux through the Krebs cycle and reduced levels of Krebs cycle intermediates but were characterized by elevated adenylate levels and an enhanced rate of CO2 assimilation. Furthermore, the analysis of both steady-state metabolite levels and metabolic fluxes revealed that this accession also exhibited elevated rates of photosynthetic Suc synthesis and a corresponding increase in fruit yield. Therefore, we conclude that the Krebs cycle normally competes with the Suc synthetic pathway for carbon but is not essential for the supply of energy to fuel the operation of this pathway.


Plasma accumulation of metabolism of orally administered single dose L-5-hydroxytryptophan in man.
Single oral doses of L-5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) were administered in combination with L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase inhibitors. The time courses of plasma concentrations of 5-HTP, 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA) and the concentrations of 5-HT in blood platelets were measured. Carbidopa enhanced the rise in plasma concentrations of 5-HTP 5-15 fold and counteracted the increase in plasma 5-HIAA levels induced by 5-HTP alone. A single dose of the decarboxylase inhibitor was equipotent to 14 days' pretreatment. Plasma or platelet concentrations of 5-HT failed to reflect the metabolism of 5-HTP. The ratio of 5-HTP to carbidopa influenced the systemic bioavailability of single dose administered 5-HTP indicating dose dependent absorption kinetics. Co-administration of L-dopa with 5-HTP and decarboxylase inhibitors had no effect on gastrointestinal absorption of 5-HTP in six parkinsonian patients.


Congenital alacrima in Pierre Robin sequence.
To report the presence of congenital alacrima in a patient with Pierre Robin (PR) sequence. A 6-month-old child with diagnosed PR sequence presented to us with dysfunctional lacrimation present since birth. The child subsequently developed bilateral corneal ulcers. This unusual presentation and its management are described in detail, and other ocular associations of the PR sequence are discussed. Continuous tear supplementation and appropriate treatment with antibiotics controlled the microbial infection. However, the long-term prognosis for visual rehabilitation remained poor in this patient because of the presence of central corneal opacities, persistent dry eye, which would preclude future optical keratoplasty, and possible sensory deprivation amblyopia. Alacrima can cause significant ocular morbidity, because persistent ocular surface dryness can be very difficult to manage. Lifelong tear supplementation may be necessary. The association or coexistence of congenital alacrima and the Pierre Robin sequence has not been described before this report.


Thrombin Cleaves Prolactin Into a Potent 5.6-kDa Vasoinhibin: Implication for Tissue Repair.
Vasoinhibin is an endogenous prolactin (PRL) fragment with profibrinolytic, antivasopermeability, and antiangiogenic effects. The fact that blood clotting, vascular permeability, and angiogenesis are functionally linked during the wound-healing process led us to investigate whether thrombin, a major protease in tissue repair, generates vasoinhibin. Here, we have incubated human PRL with thrombin and analyzed the resulting proteolytic products by Western blot, mass spectrometry, high-performance liquid chromatography purification, recombinant production, and bioactivity. We unveil a main thrombin cleavage site at R48-G49 that rapidly (< 10 minutes) generates a 5.6-kDa fragment (residues 1-48) with full vasoinhibin activity, that is, it inhibited the proliferation, invasion, and permeability of cultured endothelial cells and promoted the lysis of a fibrin clot in plasma with a similar potency to that of a conventional 14-kDa vasoinhibin (residues 1-123). The R48-G49 cleavage site is highly conserved throughout evolution and precedes the intramolecular disulfide bond (C58-C174), thereby allowing the 5.6-kDa vasoinhibin to be released without a reduction step. Furthermore, the 5.6-kDa vasoinhibin is produced by endogenous thrombin during the clotting process. These findings uncover the smallest vasoinhibin known, add thrombin to the list of PRL-cleaving proteases generating vasoinhibin, and introduce vasoinhibin as a thrombin-activated mechanism for the regulation of hemostasis, vasopermeability, and angiogenesis in response to tissue injury.


Synthesis and enantioselective rearrangement of (Z)-4-triphenylmethoxy-2,3-epoxybutan-1-ol enantiomers.
Efficient enzyme catalyzed kinetic resolutions of a synthetically useful chiral building block, (Z)-4-triphenylmethoxy-2,3-epoxybutan-1-ol, are reported. The highest selectivities were achieved by Lipozyme TL IM and Amano Lipase PS enzymes in the presence of vinyl acetate. Enantiomeric enrichment of the optically active acetate isomer was accomplished by selective crystallization of the racemic part of the enantiomeric mixture. Enzyme catalyzed hydrolysis of the acetate also provided an optically pure epoxybutanol derivative. O-Benzylation of (+)-(Z)-1-hydroxy-4-triphenylmethoxy-2,3-epoxybutane followed by super base promoted diastereo- and enantio-selective rearrangement resulted in (+)-(2R,3R,1'R)-3-[1-hydroxy-2-(triphenylmethoxy)ethyl]-2-phenyloxetane in >98% ee and de. Configurations of the new optically active products were determined by chemical correlation.


Recurrent Stimulation of Natural Killer Cell Clones with K562 Expressing Membrane-Bound Interleukin-21 Affects Their Phenotype, Interferon-γ Production, and Lifespan.
A pattern of natural killer cell (NK cell) heterogeneity determines proliferative and functional responses to activating stimuli in individuals. Obtaining the progeny of a single cell by cloning the original population is one of the ways to study NK cell heterogeneity. In this work, we sorted single cells into a plate and stimulated them via interleukin (IL)-2 and gene-modified K562 feeder cells that expressed membrane-bound IL-21 (K562-mbIL21), which led to a generation of phenotypically confirmed and functionally active NK cell clones. Next, we applied two models of clone cultivation, which differently affected their phenotype, lifespan, and functional activity. The first model, which included weekly restimulation of clones with K562-mbIL21 and IL-2, resulted in the generation of relatively short-lived (5⁻7 weeks) clones of highly activated NK cells. Levels of human leukocyte antigen class II molecule-DR isotype (HLA-DR) expression in the expanded NK cells correlated strongly with interferon-γ (IFN-γ) production. The second model, in which NK cells were restimulated weekly with IL-2 alone and once on the sixth week with K562-mbIL21 and IL-2, produced long-lived clones (8⁻14 weeks) that expanded up to 10⁷ cells with a lower ability to produce IFN-γ. Our method is applicable for studying variability in phenotype, proliferative, and functional activity of certain NK cell progeny in response to the stimulation, which may help in selecting NK cells best suited for clinical use.


Distal Femoral Cortical Irregularity in children.
Cortical abnormalities at the distal postero-medial femoral metaphysis may be relatively common. We reviewed the plain radiographs of 197 knees in 130 children aged between 5 and 12 years to investigate the incidence of distal femoral cortical irregularities (DFCI) and their association with symptoms. An adductor magnus lesion was found in 15% of cases, with an even number of irregular and cystic lesions. A medial gastrocnemius lesion was found in 5% of cases, but no association was found between symptoms and the lesion. Overall, lesions were found in 25% of cases aged 5 to 9 years, but in only 13% of cases aged 12 and 13 years. Boys showed a higher incidence of both adductor magnus and medial gastrocnemius lesions. DFCI is a benign, self-limited entity and a relatively common radiologic finding. Regardless of whether or not symptoms are present, imaging findings should be carefully interpreted to avoid unnecessary diagnostic and invasive therapeutic procedures.


A Monitoring System for the Segmentation and Grading of Broccoli Head Based on Deep Learning and Neural Networks.
Achieving the non-contact and non-destructive observation of broccoli head is the key step to realize the acquisition of high-throughput phenotyping information of broccoli. However, the rapid segmentation and grading of broccoli head remains difficult in many parts of the world due to low equipment development level. In this paper, we combined an advanced computer vision technique with a deep learning architecture to allow the acquisition of real-time and accurate information about broccoli head. By constructing a private image dataset with 100s of broccoli-head images (acquired using a self-developed imaging system) under controlled conditions, a deep convolutional neural network named "Improved ResNet" was trained to extract the broccoli pixels from the background. Then, a yield estimation model was built based on the number of extracted pixels and the corresponding pixel weight value. Additionally, the Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm (PSOA) and the Otsu method were applied to grade the quality of each broccoli head according to our new standard. The trained model achieved an Accuracy of 0.896 on the test set for broccoli head segmentation, demonstrating the feasibility of this approach. When testing the model on a set of images with different light intensities or with some noise, the model still achieved satisfactory results. Overall, our approach of training a deep learning model using low-cost imaging devices represents a means to improve broccoli breeding and vegetable trade.


Nitric oxide produced by macrophages mediates suppression of ConA-induced proliferative responses of splenic leukocytes in the diabetes-prone BB rat.
Splenic cells from the diabetes-prone BB rat show reduced proliferative responses to concanavalin A (ConA) and other mitogens. This study was undertaken to test whether this reduced lymphoproliferation in the BB rat is mediated by an increased production of nitric oxide (NO) by macrophages. Splenic leukocytes from diabetes-prone BB rats and five strains of control rats (BB-R, Wistar-Furth, Sprague-Dawley, Wistar, and Lewis) were cultured in RPMI-1640 media containing ConA. The leukocytes from BB rats showed reduced [3H]thymidine uptake and increased release of NO compared with the control rats. Partial depletion of macrophages from the culture or incubation with -NG-monomethylarginine (NGMMA), a specific NO synthase inhibitor, markedly augmented ConA-induced proliferation of the splenic leukocytes from BB but not the control rats. Enrichment of BB rat macrophages suppressed the proliferation of BB-R rat spleen cells. Excess L-arginine added to the culture reversed the NGMMA effect. These results suggest that increased production of NO by macrophages is partly responsible for the reduced proliferative responses of splenic leukocytes in the BB rat.


Modulatory effects of levamisole and garlic oil on the immune response of Wistar rats: Biochemical, immunohistochemical, molecular and immunological study.
Levamisole (LEVA) and garlic are prevalent immunomodulators in humans and animals. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the immunomodulatory effects of LEVA and garlic oil (GO) alone or in combination on the immune response of Wistar rats. A total of 24 male Wistar rats were allocated into four equal groups: Control group, which was given ad libitum access to food and water; and groups 2‑4, which were orally administered LEVA [2.5 mg/kg body weight (BW) every 2 days], GO, (5 ml/kg BW daily), or LEVA plus GO, respectively for 4 consecutive weeks. Serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgM levels were measured using a radial immunodiffusion assay. Serum cytokine levels, including interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-5 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, were measured using enzyme‑linked immunosorbent assay kits. Total blood counts were measured automatically using a cell counter. Serum lysozyme enzymatic activity was determined by measuring the diameters of the zones of clearance relative to lysozyme. Immunohistochemical detection of CD4 and CD8 was carried out using the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method. Furthermore, the mRNA expression levels of IL‑4, IL‑5 and IL‑12 were measured in the leukocytes and thymus gland by semi-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The results revealed that LEVA increased serum levels of IFN‑γ, IL‑5 and TNF‑α cytokines, whereas co‑administration of LEVA and GO decreased the stimulatory action of LEVA alone. LEVA and GO alone increased the serum levels of IgG, IgM and total blood cell counts, and co‑administration of GO and LEVA inhibited the effects of LEVA. At the cellular level, in the spleen, LEVA increased immunoreactivity of CD4 and CD8, whereas co‑administration of GO with LEVA decreased this strong expression. At the molecular level, in leukocytes, LEVA upregulated the mRNA expression levels of IL‑2, IL‑4 and IL‑5, whereas GO alone downregulated mRNA expression. Co‑administration of GO with LEVA inhibited the LEVA‑induced upregulation of IL‑2, IL‑4 and IL‑5 mRNA expression. In the thymus, both LEVA and GO upregulated the mRNA expression levels of IL‑4 and IL‑5, whereas LEVA alone did not affect IL‑12 mRNA expression. Co‑administration of GO with LEVA inhibited LEVA‑induced upregulation of IL‑4 and GO‑induced upregulation of IL‑12 expression, and had an additive upregulatory effect on IL‑5 expression. In conclusion, LEVA stimulated T‑helper (Th)1 cytokines, whereas GO stimulated a Th2 response, and co‑administration of GO with LEVA inhibited the stimulatory effects of LEVA and balanced the Th1/Th2 response.


Strength Training Effects on Muscular Regeneration after ACL Reconstruction.
Protracted quadriceps muscle atrophy is observed after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACL-R). The aim of this study was to assess if quadriceps strength training with eccentric overload (CON/ECC) is more efficient to induce muscle regeneration after ACL-R than conventional concentric/eccentric (CON/ECC) strength training. Biopsies from the vastus lateralis muscle were obtained from 37 recreational athletes after 12 wk of regular rehabilitation after ACL-R and again after 12 wk with twice a week of either conventional CON/ECC (n = 16) or CON/ECC (n = 21) one-legged supervised leg-press training. Immunohistochemical analyses were used to determine satellite cell (SC) number (Pax7); activated SC number (Pax7/MyoD); fibers expressing myosin heavy-chain (MHC) I and II, MHC neonatal, and fiber cross-sectional area. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to measure quadriceps cross-sectional area and isokinetic testing for the measurement of quadriceps strength. CON/ECC induced a significantly (P = 0.002) greater increase in quadriceps cross-sectional area than did CON/ECC. There also was a significant increase in the fiber cross-sectional areas of all fiber types and in quadriceps strength, but without significant difference between training groups. Only CON/ECC training led to a significant (P < 0.05) increase in percent type I fibers. After training, the number of MHC I/MHCneo fibers was significantly (P < 0.05) greater in the CON/ECC than after in the CON/ECC group. The proportion of hybrid fibers tended to decrease in both groups; percent type II fibers, SC number, and activated SC number remained unchanged. CON/ECC leads to significantly greater muscle hypertrophy compared with CON/ECC, but without the hypothesized enhancing effect on SC activation. At the same time, CON/ECC+ induces a less favorable slower muscle phenotype for strong and fast movements.


Two-stage equalization for ultra-fast RSOP and inter symbol interference compensation based on a simplified Kalman filter.
We propose a two-stage equalization based on a simplified Kalman filter, which is used to solve the rapid rotation of the state of polarization (RSOP) that is caused by lightning strikes on optical cables and the extra inter symbol interference (ISI) introduced in the system. By analyzing the special expression of matrix coefficient in the Kalman filter under polarization demultiplexing, the simplified idea of a Kalman filter is provided, and its updating process is transformed into a kind of multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) structure algorithm. At the same time, the second stage finite impulse response filter is used to solve the ISI that is difficult to be solved by a Kalman filter. The performance of the proposed algorithm was tested in a coherent system of 28Gbaud PDM-QPSK/16QAM. The results confirm that on the basis of lower complexity than a Kalman filter, the proposed algorithm reduces its complexity by more than 30% compared to traditional MIMO equalization algorithm under the premise of linear operation, and which also can handle RSOP of 20 Mrad/s. When the system suffers from the extra ISI due to the limited device bandwidth, the optical signal to noise ratio of the proposed algorithm is about 4 dB lower than the Kalman filter at the same bit error rate.


Prevalence of gestrointestinal symptoms in pregnancy.
This study is aimed at determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal symptoms among healthy pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital. Questionnaires were randomly administered to consecutive antenatal clinic attendees until the sample size was reached. Three hundred and seventy pregnant women were interviewed. Heart burns, easy fullness and nausea were the commonest gastrointestinal symptoms in 45%, 40.2% and 39.9% of cases respectively. Primigravidae had significantly more symptoms than multiparae. There were also significantly more gastrointestinal symptoms in the first trimester of pregnancy. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common among healthy pregnant women. And even though these represent well-known physiological changes, they must be carefully assessed to exclude any pathological disorder that may require intervention.


Immediate Repair With a Self-Gripping Retromuscular Mesh for Abdominal Wall Defect Following Tumor Resection.
Background: Prosthetic repair is always employed after large abdominal wall tumor resection, while chronic pain is one of the mesh-related complications after traumatic fixation. The objective of this research was to evaluate the outcomes of retromuscular repair with self-gripping mesh after abdominal wall tumor resection.Methods: The study was a monocentric retrospective analysis following STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) statements of all patients with abdominal wall tumor >5 cm in diameter undergoing tumor excision and retromuscular repair with self-gripping mesh. Demographic, operative, early postoperative, and follow-up data were noted. Visual Analog Scale, ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (very severe pain), was used to estimate the wound pain.Results: 24 patients were included in this study, and the defect following tumor resection was 26.9±10.0 cm2. There was no tumor recurrence or incisional hernia in median follow-up of 20 months, and the mean VAS score was 0.4. Three had foreign body feeling and no one suffered chronic pain.Conclusions: Immediate repair with a self-gripping retromuscular mesh can be considered as an effective way to treat an abdominal wall defect after resecting an abdominal wall tumor.


Determinants of Activity Phenotype in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) have attracted attention in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and there have been efforts to evaluate PA and SB separately. The factors associated with the characteristics of the four activity phenotypes defined by the durations of PA and SB are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to clarify the factors that could differentiate each activity phenotype. Study subjects were outpatients with stable COPD who were ≥40 years of age. We investigated the influence of 26 different factors on the activity phenotypes of COPD and extracted the factors that showed significant differences among the four activity phenotypes. Two hundred sixteen patients were included in the analysis. Exercise capacity and dyspnea were determinants that distinguished the low PA groups from the high PA groups. The pulmonary function and desaturation during exercise were factors that distinguished the high PA with low SB group from the low PA with high SB group. BMI, grip strength, upper arm circumference and HbA1c were higher in the low PA and low SB group than in the low PA and high SB group. These factors could be the determinants discriminating activity phenotypes of patients with COPD.


Adaptive response to acetic acid in the highly resistant yeast species Zygosaccharomyces bailii revealed by quantitative proteomics.
Zygosaccharomyces bailii is the most tolerant yeast species to acetic acid-induced toxicity, being able to grow in the presence of concentrations of this food preservative close to the legal limits. For this reason, Z. bailii is the most important microbial contaminant of acidic food products but the mechanisms behind this intrinsic resistance to acetic acid are very poorly characterized. To gain insights into the adaptive response and tolerance to acetic acid in Z. bailii, we explored an expression proteomics approach, based on quantitative 2DE, to identify alterations occurring in the protein content in response to sudden exposure or balanced growth in the presence of an inhibitory but nonlethal concentration of this weak acid. A coordinate increase in the content of proteins involved in cellular metabolism, in particular, in carbohydrate metabolism (Mdh1p, Aco1p, Cit1p, Idh2p, and Lpd1p) and energy generation (Atp1p and Atp2p), as well as in general and oxidative stress response (Sod2p, Dak2p, Omp2p) was registered. Results reinforce the concept that glucose and acetic acid are coconsumed in Z. bailii, with acetate being channeled into the tricarboxylic acid cycle. When acetic acid is the sole carbon source, results suggest the activation of gluconeogenic and pentose phosphate pathways, based on the increased content of several proteins of these pathways after glucose exhaustion.


Solvable aggregation model with monomer annihilation.
We propose a simple model in which irreversible aggregations occur between any two clusters of the same species and monomer annihilations occur between any two clusters of different species. We investigate the mean-field rate equation to analyze kinetics of the system under symmetrical initial conditions. In the constant-reaction-rate case, the cluster-mass distribution of either species approaches a conventional scaling form and both species survive finally; while for the system with a fast rate kernel, both species scale according to a modified form and no species can survive at the end.


Fronto-Orbital Advancement: Description of Surgical Technique to Complement the Procedural Cognition Simulation in the Craniofacial Interactive Virtual Assistant-Professional Edition.
The surgical treatment of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis is one of the most common procedures performed by craniofacial surgeons. However, for residents and fellows, the high degree of difficulty and complex anatomy may result in slow progress along a steep learning curve. This is particularly important in the context of contemporary academic practice, where work-hour limits and other factors restrict operative exposure and opportunities for trainees to learn. These issues have prompted the development of surgical simulation modalities that, while prevalent in other surgical specialties, have not been fully adopted in reconstructive surgery.Among these resources is the Craniofacial Interactive Virtual Assistant - Professional Edition (CIVA-Pro), a procedural cognition simulator that is free of charge. By integrating 3-dimensional virtual animation, voice over, and high-definition intraoperative video, CIVA-Pro describes cardinal craniofacial surgery procedures in an engaging platform. In this study, a detailed, step-by-step description of the fronto-orbital advancement surgical technique to complement the corresponding CIVA-Pro module was presented. This synergistic combination of multimedia educational resources provides a unique didactic option for current trainees to prepare for surgery.


Pharmacokinetics of bleomycin after im administration in man.
The pharmacokinetics of bleomycin were studied after im injection in patients with malignant lymphoma. Mean peak serum concentrations of 0.133, 0.326, and 0.587 milliunits/ml were obtained approximately 1 hour after injection of 2, 5, and 10 units/m2, respectively. The mean half-life was 155 minutes, with a range of 65--235 minutes. Thirty-three percent of the administered dose was recovered in the urine after 4 hours. The urinary excretion of bleomycin was 61% during the 24 hours after injection, with some variability that was not explained by differences in dose or creatinine clearance.


Selective induction of melanomas in gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) following postnatal administration of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea.
Following a single ip injection (50 mg/kg) of N-ethyl-N-nitrosourea (ENU) on postnatal day 7 or 20, 9 of 21 gerbils (43%) developed a total of 15 cutaneous melanomas. The mean survival time of tumor-bearing animals was 909 +/- 212 (SD) days. Neoplasms were preferentially located at sites with little hair and with high content of pigment cells (feet, ears, tail, or snout). Histologic studies on newborn gerbils indicated that ENU-induced malignant transformation occurred in differentiated melanocytes rather than in precursor cells of the neural crest.


Hydrophobic vitamin B12. Part 19: electroorganic reaction of DDT mediated by hydrophobic vitamin B12.
The controlled-potential electrolysis of 1,1-bis(4-chlorophenyl)-2,2,2-trichloroethane (DDT) was carried out at -1.4 V vs. Ag-AgCl in the presence of a hydrophobic vitamin B12, heptamethyl cobyrinate perchlorate. DDT was dechlorinated to form 1,1-bis(4-chlorophenyl)-2,2-dichloroethane (DDD), 1,1-bis(4-chlorophenyl)-2,2-dichloroethylene (DDE), 1-chloro-2,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethylene (DDMU) and 1,1,4,4-tetrakis(4-chlorophenyl)-2,3-dichloro-2-butene (TTDB)(E/Z), and quantitative recovery of the catalyst after the electrolysis was confirmed by electronic spectroscopy. A photo-sensitive intermediate having a cobalt-carbon bond formed during the electrolysis was characterized by electronic spectroscopy. A mechanism for the formation of various dechlorinated products was investigated by using deuterium solvents and various spectroscopic measurements such as UV-VIS and the EPR spin-trapping technique.


Human trafficking for organ removal in India: a victim-centered, evidence-based report.
Enhancements in the national transplant law to prohibit commercial transplants in India have curbed the trade. Yet, the human rights abuse of human trafficking for organ removal (HTOR) continues in various transplant centers throughout India. Beginning in September 2010 until May 2012, in-depth interviews were conducted with 103 victims of HTOR in India in which victims described their experiences of a commercial kidney removal in compelling detail. Victims were located in Tamil Nadu, and reference is made to the broader study that included 50 additional victims in small towns and villages in West Bengal and Karnataka. Fourteen cases (14%) in Tamil Nadu and an additional 20 cases (40%) from West Bengal and Karnataka occurred between 2009 to May 2012. The cases in Tamil Nadu ranged in age from 19 to 55 years, with an average age of 33 years in Erode and 36 years in Chennai. Fifty-seven percent of the victims in Erode are female, and 87% of the victims in Chennai are female. Twelve percent of the individuals were widowed or abandoned, 79% were married, and 91% were parents with an average of two kids. Of those interviewed, 28% had no formal education, 19% had some primary schooling, 22% had some secondary schooling, and no individuals reported schooling above high school. All victims interviewed lived in abject poverty with monthly income levels well below the national average. The majority of victims reported long lasting health, economic, social, and psychological consequences. No matter the reason expressed for an organ sale, all victims reported that they would not have agreed to the organ removal if their economic circumstances were not so dire. One hundred percent of the victims interviewed expressed that they need assistance to cope with these consequences. Human trafficking for an organ removal continues in private transplant centers throughout India, service to foreign patients is ongoing, and victims' consequences are long lasting. A rights-based response to HTOR that invokes a universal commitment to prevent, protect, and suppress its continued practice is recommended. The United Nations Trafficking Protocol is the key international instrument to address trafficking of persons, including for organ removal. India has signed the UN Trafficking Protocol and should ratify it to better address this form of human trafficking.


Tailor-made unitary operations using dielectric metasurfaces.
Qubit operation belonging to unitary transformation is the fundamental operation to realize quantum computing and information processing. Here, we show that the complex and flexible light-matter interaction between dielectric metasurfaces and incident light can be used to perform arbitrary U(2) operations. By incorporating both coherent spatial-mode operation together with two polarizations on a single metasurface, we further extend the discussion to single-photon two-qubit U(4) operations. We believe the efficient usage of metasurfaces as a potential compact platform can simplify optical qubit operation from bulky systems into conceptually subwavelength elements.


Response to: What counts as success in genetic counselling?
Clinical genetics encompasses a wider range of activities than discussion of reproductive risks and options. Hence, it is possible for a clinical geneticist to reduce suffering associated with genetic disease without aiming to reduce the birth incidence of such diseases. Simple cost-benefit analyses of genetic-screening programmes are unacceptable; more sophisticated analyses of this type have been devised but entail internal inconsistencies and do not seem to result in changed clinical practice. The secondary effects of screening programmes must be assessed before they can be properly evaluated, including the inadvertent diagnosis of unsought conditions, and the wider social effects of the programmes on those with mental handicap. This has implications for the range of prenatal tests that should be made available. While autonomy must be fully respected, it cannot itself constitute a goal of clinical genetics. The evaluation of these services requires interdepartmental comparisons of workload, and quality judgements of clients and peers.


[Quality control at the Istituto di Anatomia e Istologia patologica at the Università di Bologna].
The growing importance in medical practice of a standardized diagnosis in cyto- and histopathology and the recent recommendations for the adoption of standardized schemes for quality control in anatomic pathology by International Committees stimulated the medical staff of the Institute of Anatomic Pathology of the University of Bologna to adopt a pertinent method. The method used by the Department of Pathology of the Yale University (New Haven, Connecticut, USA) was chosen. A Committee for the quality control was appointed and two kinds of controls were set up: an External Quality Assessment (review of the difficult cases by external experts, slide seminars) and an Internal Quality Assessment performed by the members of the Committee on the diagnostic and laboratory routine of the Institute. Such a survey is periodically monitored during the monthly meetings of the Committee and described in the monthly reports. The present paper illustrates the method adopted and the preliminary results obtained in order to stimulate the discussion of such a critical theme in contemporary Anatomic Pathology at a national level.


Gastric MALT lymphoma presenting as Waldenström's macroglobulinemia without bone marrow involvement.
We report a case of gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma with macroglobulinemia in a 59-year-old man who presented with melena. A computed tomography scan of the abdomen showed irregular thickening of the wall of the stomach, and endoscopic examination disclosed enlarged and inflammatory folds of the fundus. Histopathologic examination of gastric samples showed mucosal infiltration by small lymphocytes, which were positive for CD20 and negative for CD10 and CD23, confirming the diagnosis of gastric MALT lymphoma. Serum electrophoresis detected a monoclonal peak and immunoelectrophoresis revealed an immunoglobulin M kappa component. Bone marrow aspirate and biopsy results were normal. The patient received chemotherapy. After treatment, he was in complete remission, and the serum monoclonal component had disappeared. Our observation is uncommon because of important macroglobulinemia occurring in gastric MALT lymphoma without bone marrow involvement.


Anti-Ambipolar Field-Effect Transistors Based On Few-Layer 2D Transition Metal Dichalcogenides.
Two-dimensional (2D) materials and their related van der Waals heterostructures have attracted considerable interest for their fascinating new properties. There are still many challenges in realizing the potential of 2D semiconductors in practical (opto)electronics such as signal transmission and logic circuit, etc. Herein, we report the gate-tunable anti-ambipolar devices on the basis of few-layer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) heterostructures to gain higher information storage density. Our study shows that carrier concentration regulated by the gate voltage plays a major role in the "anti-ambipolar" behavior, where the drain-source current can only pass through in specific range of gate voltage (Vg) and it will be restrained if the Vg goes beyond the range. Several improved strategies were theoretically discussed and experimentally adopted to obtain higher current on/off ratio for the anti-ambipolar devices, such as choosing suitable p-/n-pair, increasing carrier concentration by using thicker-layer TMDs, and so on. The modified SnS2/WSe2 device with the current on/off ratio exceeding 200 and on-state Vg ranging from -20 to 0 V was successfully achieved. On the basis of the anti-ambipolar field-effect transistors (FETs), we also reveal the potential of three-channel device unit for signal processing and information storage. With the equal quantity N of device units, 3(N) digital signals can be obtained from such three-channel devices, which are much larger than 2(N) ones obtained from traditional two-channel complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS).


Presbycusis and Hearing Preservation in Observed Vestibular Schwannomas.
We reviewed a cohort of patients with untreated sporadic vestibular schwannoma (VS) and examined the relationship between high-frequency hearing loss (HFHL) in the non-VS ear and long-term hearing outcomes in the VS-affected ear. We hypothesized that the progression of HFHL is associated with accelerated hearing decline in sporadic VS. Retrospective cohort study. Tertiary center. We studied 102 patients with sporadic VS diagnosed from 1999 to 2015 with ≥5 years of observation (median, 6.92; interquartile range, 5.85-9.29). Sixty-six patients had AAO-HNS class A/B hearing at presentation and were included in analysis. Audiometry, serial magnetic resonance imaging for observation of VS. Four-frequency pure tone average (PTA) and word recognition scores (WRS) in the VS-affected ear. Decline in high-frequency PTA (average of thresholds at 4000, 6000, and 8,000 Hz) was defined as ≥10 dB during the study period. Decline in WRS was defined as ≥10%. Compared with those without, patients with progressive HFHL in the non-VS ear were more likely to experience a decline in WRS in the VS ear (80% vs. 54%, p = 0.031). However, the same group showed no difference (52% vs. 41%, p = 0.40) in decline in PTA of the VS ear. Patients with observed VS who experience progressive HFHL in the non-VS ear are more likely to experience significant declines in speech understanding in the VS-affected ear over time. Patients with a history of presbycusis may have an increased risk of losing serviceable hearing because of sporadic VS.


Factors Influencing Burnout Syndrome in Obstetrics and Gynecology Physicians.
To identify the influence of environmental, personality, and alexithymia factors on burnout syndrome among obstetrics and gynecology physicians. A total of 116 physicians (35 men and 81 women) completed questionnaires and sociodemographic data sheets. The Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Big Five Inventory, and the Toronto Alexithymia Scale were used to measure burnout, innate personality traits, and alexithymia, respectively. The t-test and Pearson correlations were used for other measurements. Of the 116 study physicians, 12.9% have suffered or still suffer from depression and 35.3% have had or still have problems related to insomnia. Regarding emotional exhaustion and depersonalization factors, men obtained lower scores than women (18.73 ± 13.48 versus 24.14 ± 11.71 for emotional exhaustion; 5.97 ± 5.45 versus 7.70 ± 5.29 for depersonalization). Self-reported depression was related to higher scores for all 3 domains, to higher total scores for alexithymia and neuroticism, and to lower scores for extraversion, conscientiousness, and openness. Residents and consultants had markedly different scores. The results of this study will help obstetrics and gynecology physicians cope with professional burnout and to consider personality traits, alexithymia domains, and environmental factors when finding strategies to cope with their professional stress.


Childhood Maltreatment as Predictor of Pathological Personality Traits Using PSY-5 in an Adult Psychiatric Sample.
Extant literature indicates that childhood maltreatment is significantly associated with personality disorders. With the recent call for a more dimensional approach to understanding personality and pathological personality traits, the aim of the present study was to examine whether the experience of childhood maltreatment is associated with pathological personality traits as measured by the Personality Psychopathology Five (PSY-5). We analyzed data from 557 adult psychiatric patients with diverse psychiatric diagnoses, including mood disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and anxiety disorders. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to determine the degree to which childhood maltreatment explained the five trait dimensions after controlling for demographic variables, presence of psychotic symptoms, and degree of depressive symptoms. Childhood maltreatment significantly predicted all of the five trait dimensions of the PSY-5. This suggests that childhood maltreatment may negatively affect the development of an adaptive adjustment system, thereby potentially contributing to the emergence of pathological personality traits.


The role of titanium-oxo clusters in the sulfate process for TiO2 production.
TiO2 is manufactured for white pigments, solar cells, self-cleaning surfaces and devices, and other photocatalytic applications. The industrial synthesis of TiO2 entails: (1) the dissolution of ilmenite ore (FeTiO3) in aqueous sulfuric acid which precipitates the Fe while retaining the Ti in solution, followed by (2) dilution or heating the Ti sulfate solution to precipitate the pure form of TiO2. The underlying chemistry of these processing steps remains poorly understood. Here we show that the dissolution of a simple TiIV-sulfate salt, representative of the industrial sulfate process for the production of TiO2, immediately self-assembles into a soluble Ti-octadecameric cluster, denoted as {Ti18}. We observed {Ti18} in solution by small-angle X-ray scattering and Ti extended X-ray absorption fine structure (Ti-EXAFS) analysis, and ultimately crystallized it for absolute identification. The {Ti18} metal-oxo cluster was previously reported as a polycation; but shown here, it can also be a polyanion, dependent on the number of sulfate ligands it carries. After immediate self-assembly, the {Ti18}-cluster persists until TiO2 precipitates, with no easily identified structural intermediates in the solution or solid state, despite the fact that the atomic arrangement of {Ti18} differs vastly from that of titania. The evolution from solution phase {Ti18} to precipitated TiO2 nanoparticles was detailed by X-ray scattering and Ti-EXAFS. We offer a hypothesis for the key mechanism of complete separation of Fe from Ti in the industrial sulfate process. These findings also highlight the emerging importance of the unusual Ti(Ti)5 pentagonal building unit, featured in {Ti18} as well as other early d0 transition metal-oxo clusters including Nb, Mo and W. Finally, this study presents an example of crystal growth mechanisms in which the observed "pre-nucleation cluster" does not necessarily predicate the structure of the precipitated solid.


Cultural Adaptation of the MABC-2 Checklist as a Screening Tool for Developmental Coordination Disorder in Schools.
The purpose of this study was to adapt the MABC-2 Checklist to Czech primary schools by examining of its content validity and feasibility. The content validity achieved the satisfactory level in the second round of panels of experts on child motor development. The evidence on feasibility was obtained from classroom teachers who described this tool as clear, objective and having logical structure and its administration as comprehensible and fast. The MABC-2 Checklist is applicable instrument for the Czech school environment, but its adaptation to various countries should consider the items representing the common motor skills in local children.


Taxonomic remarks, phylogeny and evolutionary notes on the leaf beetle species belonging to the Cryptocephalus sericeus complex (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cryptocephalinae).
A cladistic analysis was carried out for a complex of 33 species of the genus Cryptocephalus that has been recognized for some time as monophyletic. 55 morphological adult characters have been used, with 119 character states. Analyses were performed using parsimony procedures as well as Bayesian inference. Further information about phylogenetic scenarios were obtained by combining the morphological dataset with a sequence of 507 bp of the central portion of the 18S ribosomal RNA. Illustrations are provided for most morphological characters used in the analyses. Besides, the following taxonomic changes are proposed here: subg. Cerodens has to be considered a new synonym of subg. Cryptocephalus; C. zambanellus is raised again to species level; C. sericeus intrusus has to be considered a new synonym of C. zambanellus; C. telueticus has to be considered a new synonym of C. azurescens; all the populations of C. violaceus ranging from Iberian Peninsula to central Alps are attributed to the subspecies scaffaiolus Burlini, formerly described from the Northern Apennines. Biogeographic remarks are given and some evolutionary hypotheses about the radiation of the monophylum are proposed on the basis of the acquired knowledge. An identification key for the species is also provided.


Rituximab induced psoriasis in an infant.
Rituximab is a chimeric monoclonal antibody directed against the CD20 antigen present on the surface of mature B cells. It has been widely used in the treatment of many dermatologic and rheumatologic conditions. The onset of psoriasis after rituximab therapy has not been reported in children. We report the first case of psoriasis after rituximab therapy in a 16-month-old boy with no other risk factors for developing psoriasis.


Dendritic Cells - Winning the Fight against HIV.
HIV is a virus that targets and hijacks the immune cells of the host. It multiplies by attacking the helper T-lymphocytes. HIV has remained one of the most difficult and dangerous infections in the world due to the inability to find a successful treatment and a lack of access to medical care. When the virus reaches the body, dendritic cells are the first cells it encounters. DCs have been identified as one of the most effective mediators of immune responses, implying a promising strategy against viral infection. The current state of knowledge about the function of dendritic cells and their subsets is critical for using their full potential as a candidate for the development of an HIV vaccine. Despite extensive efforts, a reliable vaccine with the fewest side effects has yet to be found, and further research is needed to find a dependable and efficient vaccine. The extent to which dendritic cell-based therapy is used to treat HIV was investigated in this study. As the virus attacks the host immune system, the dendritic cells can trigger an immune response against HIV-1 infection.


Incidence and prevalence of multiple sclerosis in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
To determine the incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) in a longitudinal surveillance over 35 years and to estimate the prevalence rate in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, on January 1, 2005. A population-based registry was established in 1969, and identification of cases continued to 2005, from medical records, physicians, neurologists, community and provincial resources. A modified classification of Allison and Millar and the Schumacher diagnostic criteria were originally applied, and patients with definite and probable MS were included. The rates were age- and sex-adjusted to the US, European, and world 2000 populations. From 1970 to 2004, there were 558 incidence cases identified, 402 women and 156 men, for a sex ratio of 2.6:1 The average annual incidence rate was 9.5 in 100,000 (95% CI 8.8 to 10.4) and was stable over the three decades. The innate risk or residence at onset rate was 197 in 100,000 (95% CI 170 to 226). The crude prevalence rate for the living 587 cases on January 1, 2005, was 298.3 in 100,000 (95% CI 274.7 to 323.6). The incidence and prevalence rates adjusted to the standardized populations were statistically higher than the longitudinal European studies and similar to North American studies. Our incidence study confirms the high risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) in Saskatoon, and these rates seem to be stable over the past 35 years. The high crude prevalence rate results from an accumulation of incidence and nonresident cases over time. Long-term follow-up studies and comparison with standardized populations are recommended to estimate reliable incidence and the true risk of MS in the world.


Synthesis, crystal structure, DFT studies and photophysical properties of a copper(I)-triphenylphosphane complex based on trans-(±)-2,4,5-tris(pyridin-2-yl)-2-imidazoline.
The possibility of using less expensive and nontoxic metals, such as copper, as substitutes for more expensive heavy metals in the synthesis of new transition-metal complexes to be used as sensitizers in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) has stimulated research in this field. The novel photoluminescent copper(I) complex bis(triphenylphosphane-κP)[trans-(±)-2,4,5-tris(pyridin-2-yl)-2-imidazoline-κ2N2,N3]copper(I) hexafluorophosphate, [CuI(C18H15N5)(C18H15P)2]PF6, has been successfully synthesized and characterized by IR and 1H NMR spectroscopy, as well as by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and thermogravimetric analysis. The complex showed interesting photophysical properties, which were studied experimentally in solution and in the solid state by UV-Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations with dichloromethane as solvent reproduced reasonably well the HOMO and LUMO orbitals of the title compound.


Immunoreactive prorenin and its profragment peptide are present in human juxtaglomerular cells.
Although prorenin appears to be activated through the cleavage of its prosegment in the juxtaglomerular cells, the presence of prosegment peptide has never been demonstrated. We therefore studied prorenin in juxtaglomerular tumour cells, both by immunohistochemistry and by radio-immunoassay. Synthetic peptide covering the 14-carboxyterminal sequence of human renin prosegment was used to prepare both antibody and radiolabelled tracer. Intense immunostaining of prorenin was demonstrated in the tumour cells. By gel filtration, however, immunoreactive prorenin was shown to consist of two major components. The first peak, located at the elution position of activatable inactive renin, was regarded as prorenin. The other peak was located at an elution position with a smaller molecular weight, which was assumed to represent the profragment. These results suggest that both prosegment peptide and prorenin are present in the juxtaglomerular cells.


Presence and emotions in playing a group game in a virtual environment: the influence of body participation.
This study assesses the influence of body participation on the sense of presence and emotions, and the relationship between the two dependent variables in playing a group game in a virtual environment. A total of 56 volunteers were asked to play a virtual game in a 360-degree stereoscopic immersive interactive visualization environment using either body movement or a joystick. Presence was measured with the post hoc SUS Presence Questionnaire. The pictorial tool of Self-Assessment Manikin was employed for measuring emotions of arousal and valence. Both arousal and valence positively correlated with presence. However, body participation did not significantly affect reported presence or the above-mentioned emotions.


Ab initio interatomic potentials and the thermodynamic properties of fluids.
Monte Carlo simulations with accurate ab initio interatomic potentials are used to investigate the key thermodynamic properties of argon and krypton in both vapor and liquid phases. Data are reported for the isochoric and isobaric heat capacities, the Joule-Thomson coefficient, and the speed of sound calculated using various two-body interatomic potentials and different combinations of two-body plus three-body terms. The results are compared to either experimental or reference data at state points between the triple and critical points. Using accurate two-body ab initio potentials, combined with three-body interaction terms such as the Axilrod-Teller-Muto and Marcelli-Wang-Sadus potentials, yields systematic improvements to the accuracy of thermodynamic predictions. The effect of three-body interactions is to lower the isochoric and isobaric heat capacities and increase both the Joule-Thomson coefficient and speed of sound. The Marcelli-Wang-Sadus potential is a computationally inexpensive way to utilize accurate two-body ab initio potentials for the prediction of thermodynamic properties. In particular, it provides a very effective way of extending two-body ab initio potentials to liquid phase properties.


Molecular basis for the substrate specificity and catalytic mechanism of thymine-7-hydroxylase in fungi.
TET proteins play a vital role in active DNA demethylation in mammals and thus have important functions in many essential cellular processes. The chemistry for the conversion of 5mC to 5hmC, 5fC and 5caC catalysed by TET proteins is similar to that of T to 5hmU, 5fU and 5caU catalysed by thymine-7-hydroxylase (T7H) in the nucleotide anabolism in fungi. Here, we report the crystal structures and biochemical properties of Neurospora crassa T7H. T7H can bind the substrates only in the presence of cosubstrate, and binding of different substrates does not induce notable conformational changes. T7H exhibits comparable binding affinity for T and 5hmU, but 3-fold lower affinity for 5fU. Residues Phe292, Tyr217 and Arg190 play critical roles in substrate binding and catalysis, and the interactions of the C5 modification group of substrates with the cosubstrate and enzyme contribute to the slightly varied binding affinity and activity towards different substrates. After the catalysis, the products are released and new cosubstrate and substrate are reloaded to conduct the next oxidation reaction. Our data reveal the molecular basis for substrate specificity and catalytic mechanism of T7H and provide new insights into the molecular mechanism of substrate recognition and catalysis of TET proteins.