High density FTA plates serve as efficient long-term sample storage for HLA genotyping.
Storage of dried blood spots (DBS) on high-density FTA(®) plates could constitute an appealing alternative to frozen storage. However, it remains controversial whether DBS are suitable for high-resolution sequencing of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles. Therefore, we extracted DNA from DBS that had been stored for up to 4 years, using six different methods. We identified those extraction methods that recovered sufficient high-quality DNA for reliable high-resolution HLA sequencing. Further, we confirmed that frozen whole blood samples that had been stored for several years can be transferred to filter paper without compromising HLA genotyping upon extraction. Concluding, DNA derived from high-density FTA(®) plates is suitable for high-resolution HLA sequencing, provided that appropriate extraction protocols are employed.


Predictors of Breast Cancer Screening behavior in Women aged 20-69 Referred to Public Health Centers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Isfahan Province.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Delay in the diagnosis of breast cancer is a major challenge that can lead to disease progression. Identifying the predictors of breast cancer screening behavior is necessary to promote early detection of breast cancer. This study aims to investigate the predictors of breast cancer screening behavior in women aged 20-69 referred to public health centers. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 17255 women aged 20-69 years old in Isfahan Province referred to Public Health Centers by the multi-stage random sampling method. data were collected based on the paper forms of women's care aged 20-69 at public health centers, Isfahan, Iran, in 2012. Using STATA 14, logistic regression was employed to explore predictors of breast cancer screening behavior at a 5% significance level. The mean age of women was 36.75 ± 10.46. About 6006 (34.8%) of women had a history of breast self-examination, and among women aged over 40 years, 17.7% reported ever having a mammogram. The most important factors influencing breast self-examination were age 40-49 (OR = 1.18; 95% CI: 1.06-1.33), history of hormone consumption (OR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.15-1.33), family history of breast cancer in first-degree relatives (OR = 14.22; 95% CI: 9.83-20.57. The most important factors influencing mammography were hormone consumption (OR = 1.26; 95% CI: 1.05-1.51), and family history of breast cancer in first-degree relatives (OR = 32.55; 95% CI: 20.08-52.70). Our findings indicated that the performance of breast self-examination and mammography was low. The frequency of BC screening behavior was higher among women with BC risk factors The results revealed the need for health authorities to pay attention to education in BC detection methods.


Restricted T cell receptor BV gene usage in the lungs and muscles of patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies.
To investigate T cell receptor (TCR) expression in 3 different compartments that could be involved in patients with myositis: muscle, lung, and peripheral blood. Nine patients with polymyositis (PM), dermatomyositis, or inclusion body myositis underwent bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) as well as muscle biopsy and blood sampling. A panel of 19 monoclonal antibodies specific for TCR V(beta) (BV) and V(alpha) (AV) were used to characterize the TCR profile in CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell populations in BAL fluid and peripheral blood by flow cytometry. Muscle biopsy tissues were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Patients were also typed for HLA-DRB1 and DRB3 alleles. A total of 17 T cell expansions were detected in BAL fluid, 6 in the CD4(+) T cell population and 11 in the CD8(+) T cell population. Four T cell expansions were detected in peripheral blood. A selective TCR V usage was found in muscle. Two PM patients, both of whom had BAL fluid BV3(+) T cell expansions in the CD4 population and in whom BV3 was also a prominent TCR V segment in muscle tissue, shared the HLA-DRB1*03 allele. These 2 patients were the only ones who were positive for anti-Jo-1 antibody. We found a restricted accumulation of T lymphocytes expressing selected TCR V-gene segments in the target organ compartments (i.e., lung and muscle). The occurrence of shared TCR gene segment usage in muscle and lungs could suggest common target antigens in these organs.


Preoperative coronary calcium score is predictive of early postoperative cardiovascular complications in liver transplant recipients.
Coronary computed tomographic angiography (coronary CT) is a non-invasive test for diagnosis of cardiac function. Coronary calcium scores determined by coronary CT are associated with cardiovascular risk factors. However, no studies have investigated the association between coronary calcium scores and cardiovascular complications after liver transplantation (LT). We therefore evaluated the utility of preoperative coronary calcium scores for predicting early postoperative cardiovascular complications in LT recipients. Between 2010 and 2012, 443 LT recipients were analysed retrospectively. Preoperative cardiovascular assessments, including coronary CT, were performed. A coronary calcium score >400 was defined as a positive finding. Predictive factors of early postoperative cardiovascular complications were evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses. Major cardiovascular complications occurring during a period of 1 month after LT were noted. Of the 443 patients, 38 (8.6%) experienced one or more cardiovascular complications. Positive coronary CT findings were seen in 11 (2.5%) patients. In the multivariate analysis, a coronary calcium score >400 {odds ratio (OR)=4.62 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.14-18.72], P=0.032} and female sex [OR=2.76 (1.37-5.57), P=0.005] were predictive of cardiovascular complications. A preoperative coronary calcium score of >400 predicted cardiovascular complications occurring 1 month after LT, suggesting that preoperative evaluation of coronary calcium scores could help predict early postoperative cardiovascular complications in LT recipients.


[Groping in the dark: pain that goes unheard 1].
Even with pharmalogical support, it is always very difficult to carry out dental check-ups on a deaf-blind man with profound intellectual disabilities. The man cannot communicate pain. Further diagnostic measures and treatment are impossible while using only oral sedation. When caries and calculus are diagnosed, the man is treated under general anaesthesia. In this treatment session severe periodontal disease and peri-apical problems are also diagnosed. The legal representative of the patient is unavailable for consultation on changes to the pre-prepared preliminary treatment plan during the treatment session. This creates a dilemma for the dental treatment §team. This case study will be presented during the conference 'State of the art' on 17 March 2017, by the Society for the Promotion of Dental Health Care for People with Disabilities (VBTGG). This case can be read before the conference exclusively by the readers of the Dutch Journal of Dentistry (NTvT). The chosen treatment will be published in the edition of April 2017.


Electroencephalographic sleep in secondary depression: a revisit.
EEG sleep studies are reported in 23 inpatients with secondary depression compared to a similar number of primary depressives matched for age and severity. No major patterns of EEG sleep abnormalities were found to differentiate between these closely matched samples at baseline or during amitriptyline treatment. Such results indicate that more severely ill secondary depressives manifest the characteristic EEG sleep abnormalities of depression. While these features had been reported previously to be specific for primary depression, earlier studies of psychobiological differences between primary and secondary subtypes may reflect an epiphenomenon of sample differences in age, severity, or percentage of patients with endogenous depression. Implications for further research and clinical practice are discussed.


Analyzing the efficiency of short-term air quality plans in European cities, using the CHIMERE air quality model.
Regional and local authorities have the obligation to design air quality plans and assess their impacts when concentration levels exceed the limit values. Because these limit values cover both short- (day) and long-term (year) effects, air quality plans also follow these two formats. In this work, we propose a methodology to analyze modeled air quality forecast results, looking at emission reduction for different sectors (residential, transport, agriculture, etc.) with the aim of supporting policy makers in assessing the impact of short-term action plans. Regarding PM10, results highlight the diversity of responses across European cities, in terms of magnitude and type that raises the necessity of designing area-specific air quality plans. Action plans extended from 1 to 3 days (i.e., emissions reductions applied for 24 and 72 h, respectively) point to the added value of trans-city coordinated actions. The largest benefits are seen in central Europe (Vienna, Prague) while major cities (e.g., Paris) already solve a large part of the problem on their own. Eastern Europe would particularly benefit from plans based on emission reduction in the residential sectors; while in northern cities, agriculture seems to be the key sector on which to focus attention. Transport is playing a key role in most cities whereas the impact of industry is limited to a few cities in south-eastern Europe. For NO2, short-term action plans focusing on traffic emission reductions are efficient in all cities. This is due to the local character of this type of pollution. It is important, however, to stress that these results remain dependent on the selected months available for this study.


Solvent dynamical control of electron-transfer rates in mixed-valence complexes observed by infrared spectral line shape coalescence.
Rate constants for intramolecular electron transfer within the intervalence charge transfer (-1) states of the complexes [{Ru3O(OAc)6(L)(CO)}2(mu-pz)] (where L= 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine (1), pyridine (2), 3-cyanopyridine (3), or 4-cyanopyridine (4) and pz = pyrazine) were determined by coalescence of infrared (IR) vibrational spectral line shapes in seven solvents. The electron-transfer times (kET-1) show a strong correlation with solvent relaxation times determined in separate ultrafast time-resolved fluorescence experiments. The best comparison is found with the parameter t1e, which is ascribed to inertial solvent relaxation. The IR spectra of these mixed-valence complexes are thus a steady-state spectral probe of ultrafast, dynamic solvent relaxation processes which are otherwise only accessible using laser-pumped, ultrafast time-resolved measurements.


Effect of exogenous nitric oxide on sperm motility in vitro.
Nitric oxide (NO) has been shown to be important in sperm function, and the concentration of NO appears to determine these effects. Studies have demonstrated both positive and negative effects of NO on sperm function, but have not been able to provide a clear link between NO concentration and the extent of exposure to NO. To study the relationship between nitric oxide and sperm capacitation in vitro, and to provide a theoretical basis for the use of NO-related preparations in improving sperm motility for in vitro fertilization, we investigated the effects of NO concentration and time duration at these concentrations on in vitro sperm capacitation in both normal and abnormal sperm groups. We manipulated NO concentrations and the time duration of these concentrations using sodium nitroprusside (an NO donor) and NG-monomethyl-L-argenine (an NO synthase inhibitor). Compared to the normal sperm group, the abnormal sperm group had a longer basal time to reach the appropriate concentration of NO (p < 0.001), and the duration of time at this concentration was longer for the abnormal sperm group (p < 0.001). Both the basal time and the duration of time were significantly correlated with sperm viability and percentage of progressive sperm (p < 0.001). The experimental group had a significantly higher percentage of progressive sperm than the control group (p < 0.001). We hypothesize that there is a certain regularity to both NO concentration and its duration of time in regards to sperm capacitation, and that an adequate duration of time at the appropriate NO concentration is beneficial to sperm motility.


Challenge of material haemocompatibility for microfluidic blood-contacting applications.
Biological applications of microfluidics technology is beginning to expand beyond the original focus of diagnostics, analytics and organ-on-chip devices. There is a growing interest in the development of microfluidic devices for therapeutic treatments, such as extra-corporeal haemodialysis and oxygenation. However, the great potential in this area comes with great challenges. Haemocompatibility of materials has long been a concern for blood-contacting medical devices, and microfluidic devices are no exception. The small channel size, high surface area to volume ratio and dynamic conditions integral to microchannels contribute to the blood-material interactions. This review will begin by describing features of microfluidic technology with a focus on blood-contacting applications. Material haemocompatibility will be discussed in the context of interactions with blood components, from the initial absorption of plasma proteins to the activation of cells and factors, and the contribution of these interactions to the coagulation cascade and thrombogenesis. Reference will be made to the testing requirements for medical devices in contact with blood, set out by International Standards in ISO 10993-4. Finally, we will review the techniques for improving microfluidic channel haemocompatibility through material surface modifications-including bioactive and biopassive coatings-and future directions.


Biological formation of ethane and propane in the deep marine subsurface.
Concentrations and isotopic compositions of ethane and propane in cold, deeply buried sediments from the southeastern Pacific are best explained by microbial production of these gases in situ. Reduction of acetate to ethane provides one feasible mechanism. Propane is enriched in (13)C relative to ethane. The amount is consistent with derivation of the third C from inorganic carbon dissolved in sedimentary pore waters. At typical sedimentary conditions, the reactions yield free energy sufficient for growth. Relationships with competing processes are governed mainly by the abundance of H(2). Production of C(2) and C(3) hydrocarbons in this way provides a sink for acetate and hydrogen but upsets the general belief that hydrocarbons larger than methane derive only from thermal degradation of fossil organic material.


E-Z-CAT. An oral contrast medium for use in computed tomography of the abdomen.
A new barium sulphate suspension, E-Z-CAT, for use as an oral contrast medium at computed tomography of the abdomen has been compared with the commonly used water-soluble iodinated contrast medium Gastrografin as regards patient tolerance and diagnostic information. The investigation was conducted as an unpaired randomized single-blind study in 100 consecutive patients. E-Z-CAT seems to be preferred because of its better taste, its lesser tendency to cause diarrhoea, and for usage in patients who are known to be hypersensitive to iodinated contrast media. The diagnostic information was the same for both contrast media.


Comparative epigenomic annotation of regulatory DNA.
Despite the explosive growth of genomic data, functional annotation of regulatory sequences remains difficult. Here, we introduce "comparative epigenomics"-interspecies comparison of DNA and histone modifications-as an approach for annotation of the regulatory genome. We measured in human, mouse, and pig pluripotent stem cells the genomic distributions of cytosine methylation, H2A.Z, H3K4me1/2/3, H3K9me3, H3K27me3, H3K27ac, H3K36me3, transcribed RNAs, and P300, TAF1, OCT4, and NANOG binding. We observed that epigenomic conservation was strong in both rapidly evolving and slowly evolving DNA sequences, but not in neutrally evolving sequences. In contrast, evolutionary changes of the epigenome and the transcriptome exhibited a linear correlation. We suggest that the conserved colocalization of different epigenomic marks can be used to discover regulatory sequences. Indeed, seven pairs of epigenomic marks identified exhibited regulatory functions during differentiation of embryonic stem cells into mesendoderm cells. Thus, comparative epigenomics reveals regulatory features of the genome that cannot be discerned from sequence comparisons alone.


Are striatal dopamine D4 receptors increased in schizophrenia?
The density of dopamine D2-like receptors was determined using [3H]emonapride binding in putamen tissue taken postmortem from schizophrenic subjects and matched controls. A 72% increase in number of these receptors was identified in the schizophrenics, although three patients not receiving antipsychotic drug treatment before death exhibited receptor densities in the control range. Displacement of 1 nM [3H]emonapride binding by raclopride was used to define the contribution of the D4 subtype of dopamine receptors to total [3H]emonapride binding. No evidence was obtained for the presence of D4 receptors in putamen tissue from either control or schizophrenic subjects, indicating that the increase in D2-like receptor density in schizophrenia is due not to an increase in number of D4 sites in the disease, but to an up-regulation of D2 or D3 receptors probably induced by chronic treatment with antipsychotic drugs.


Revealing the molecular mechanism of colorectal cancer by establishing LGALS3-related protein-protein interaction network and identifying signaling pathways.
LGALS3 plays a role in colorectal cancer, however, the detailed molecular mechanism remains to be determined, while signaling pathways provide valuable information for understanding the underlying mechanism of the cancer. The purpose of this study was to explore the roles of LGALS3 and signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of colorectal cancer. In this study, microarray data GSE8671 were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in colorectal cancer were identified by Significant Analysis of Microarray. Gene ontology (GO) analysis was performed on the top 500 upregulated and 500 downregulated genes using DAVID. The signaling pathways were predicted by the signaling pathway impact analysis (SPIA) with pGFdr<0.05 and transcription factors were identified by TFats. The LGALS3-related protein-protein interaction network (PPI) was established by STRING and Cytoscape. In total, 6,593 upregulated and 5,897 downregulated DEGs were identified and 41 downregulated genes, including CLND8 and CLND23 were enriched in cell adhesion. In addition, 21 pathways, such as the cell cycle, p53 signaling pathway and NF-κB signaling pathway, were selected. MYC and TCF7L2 were found to be activated while FOXO3 was suppressed in colorectal cancer. Eight downregulated and 10 upregulated genes were identified in the LGALS3 PPI network. Results of the present study shed new light on the molecular mechanism of colorectal cancer and these findings have the potential to be used in colorectal cancer treatment.


The role of public relations activities in hospital choice.
Public relations activities for all organizations can have an important effect on consumer decision-making when buying goods or services. This study examines the effect that public relations activities can have regarding consumer decisions and choice. To explore exemplify this relationship a questionnaire was given to 971 patients within public, university and private hospitals in Ankara, Turkey. Study results show that public relations activities were a crucial factor in determining consumer hospital choice. The majority of respondents reported that the behaviors and attitude of personnel as public relations activities that support the hospital's reputation within the public were the primary variables in hospital choice. Health care managers can use these findings to further understand how patients make informed choices related to usage of a health care facility and to develop and/or improve public relations activities.


[Degradation of 2, 4-D by combined catalytic dechlorination and biological oxidation].
In this paper, Pd/Fe nanoparticles were used to degrade 2,4-D. Then the resulted solution of 2,4-D dechlorination was biological oxidized by activated sludge. And the effects of initial pH, activated sludge volume, initial contaminant concentration and temperature on the removal of PA were studied. Polymerase Chain Reaction-Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (PCR-DGGE) was used to study microbial community structure. And High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) was employed to determine and analyze the degradation process of target pollutant. The conclusions can be summarized as follows: (1) Pd/Fe can degrade 2,4-D efficiently, 2-CPA was the intermediate product, and the end product was PA. (2) Compared with 2,4-D, the dechlorination product PA has lower biological toxicity, and can be more easily degraded by activated sludges. (3) pH = 7, 50 mL activated sludge/200 mL solution, PA initial concentration of 14. 6 mg L-1 and 30°C favored the PA removal. Under suitable conditions, the removal rate of PA can reach to 84. 3% after 96 hours.


Navy En Route Care: A 3-Year Review of 428 Navy Air Evacuations.
Navy medical personnel have been recording en route care (ERC) missions through Search and Rescue (SAR) reports since the 1970's. Our objective was to report clinical ERC cases treated by Navy operational assets from January 2012 to January 2015. The Search and Rescue Model Manager office collects SAR reports for all patient transports involving Navy personnel and equipment. From these reports, descriptive statistics to include total number of patients transported, percentages of Advanced Life Support versus Basic Life Support transports, time of transport, and type of ERC provider for the transport were collected. Data reported as median (interquartile range) or percentages. During a 3-year period, 428 patients were transported. Transport time was 54 (30-78) minutes. Missions were staffed by more than one provider 22% of the time. Individual providers included 76% Search and Rescue Medical Technicians, 25% Flight Surgeons, and 21% Other. Patients required ALS transport 54% of the time. Less than half (48%) of the patients were trauma related. In our review of 428 SAR reports from Navy ERC (2012-2015), we found that 76% of the missions were performed by Search and Rescue Medical Technicians and 54% met Advanced Life Support transport criteria.


Guidance-Error-Based Robust Fuzzy Adaptive Control for Bottom Following of a Flight-Style AUV With Saturated Actuator Dynamics.
This paper addresses the problem of robust bottom following control for a flight-style autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) subject to system uncertainties, actuator dynamics, and input saturation. First, the actuator dynamics that is approximated by a first-order differential equation is inserted into the AUV dynamics model, which renders a high-order nonlinear dynamics analysis and design in the model-based backstepping controller by utilizing guidance errors. Second, to overcome the shaking control behavior resulted by the model-based high-order derivative calculation, a fuzzy approximator-based model-free controller is proposed, in order to online approximate the unknown part of the ideal backstepping architecture. In addition, the adaptive error estimation technology is resorted to compensate the system approximation error, ensuring that all the position and orientation errors of robust bottom following control tend to zero. Third, to further tackle the potential unstable control behavior from inherent saturation of control surfaces driven by rudders, an additional adaptive fuzzy compensator is introduced, in order to compensate control truncation between the unsaturated and saturation inputs. Subsequently, Lyapunov theory and Barbalat lemma are adopted to synthesize asymptotic stability of the entire bottom following control system. Finally, comparative numerical simulations with different controllers, environmental disturbances and initial states are provided to illustrate adaptability and robustness of the proposed bottom following controller for a flight-style AUV with saturated actuator dynamics.


mgpB and mgpC sequence diversity in Mycoplasma genitalium is generated by segmental reciprocal recombination with repetitive chromosomal sequences.
Mycoplasma genitalium is associated with sexually transmitted infections in men and women that, if untreated, can persist, suggesting that mechanism(s) exist to facilitate immune evasion. Approximately 4% of the limited M. genitalium genome contains repeat sequences termed MgPar regions that have homology to mgpB and mgpC, which encode antigenic proteins associated with attachment. We have previously shown that mgpB sequences vary within a single strain of M. genitalium in a pattern consistent with recombination between mgpB and MgPar sequences (Iverson-Cabral et al.). In the current study, we show that mgpC heterogeneity similarly occurs within the type strain, G-37(T), cultured in vitro and among cervical specimens collected from a persistently infected woman. In all cases, alternative mgpC sequences are indicative of recombination with MgPar regions. Additionally, the isolation of single-colony M. genitalium clonal variants containing alternative mgpB or mgpC sequences allowed us to demonstrate that mgpB and mgpC heterogeneity is associated with corresponding changes within donor MgPar regions, consistent with reciprocal recombination. Better-defined systems of antigenic variation are typically mediated by unidirectional gene conversion, so the generation of genetic diversity observed in M. genitalium by the mutual exchange of sequences makes this organism unique among bacterial pathogens.


The roles of exposure and speed in road safety analysis.
Speed is a determining factor in road safety analysis. It is generally believed that an increase in speed harms road safety. However, it can also be argued that driving at high speed reduces the length of time exposure and thus the likelihood of a crash. It is therefore critical to clarify the roles that exposure and speed play in road safety analysis. This study evaluates the relationship between speed and crash risk with respect to distance and time exposure, using disaggregated crash and speed data collected from 112 road segments in Hong Kong. A joint probability model based on a full Bayesian method is applied simultaneously to model crash occurrence and crash severity. In addition, we consider the explanatory variables, including road design, weather conditions, and temporal distribution, in the proposed crash prediction model. The results indicate that average speed plays a significant role in crash risk, despite opposing correlations with respect to distance and time exposure; the correlation between speed and crash risk is positive when distance exposure is considered, but negative when time exposure is used. However, in both cases, speed is positively associated with the injury severity.


IL-23 and IL-12 have overlapping, but distinct, effects on murine dendritic cells.
IL-23 is a recently discovered heterodimeric cytokine that shares biological properties with proinflammatory cytokines. The biologically active heterodimer consists of p19 and the p40 subunit of IL-12. IL-23 has been shown to possess biological activities on T cells that are similar as well distinct from those of IL-12. We have constructed single-chain IL-23 and IL-12 fusion proteins (IL-23-Ig and IL-12-Ig) and have compared the two recombinant proteins for effects on murine dendritic cells (DC). Here we show that the IL-23-Ig can bind a significant proportion of splenic DC of both the CD8alpha(-) and CD8alpha(+) subtypes. Furthermore, IL-23and IL-12-Ig exert biological activities on DC that are only in part overlapping. While both proteins induce IL-12 production from DC, only IL-23-Ig can act directly on CD8alpha(+) DC to promote immunogenic presentation of an otherwise tolerogenic tumor peptide. In addition, the in vitro effects of IL-23-Ig did not appear to require IL-12Rbeta2 or to be mediated by the production of IL-12. These data may establish IL-23 as a novel cytokine with major effects on APC.


Effect of two weeks' treatment with chlordiazepoxide or flupenthixole, alone or in combination with alcohol, on psychomotor skills related to driving.
The effects of two weeks' treatment with chlordiazepoxide 10 mg t.i.d. or flupenthixole 0.5 mg t.i.d. on human psychomotor performance related to driving was examined on 20 healthy male students aged 20 to 23 years. The tests used were a choice reaction, two co-ordination and an attention test having correlation with traffic behaviour. Neither chlordiazepoxide nor flupenthixole impaired psychomotor performance on the 7th or 14th days of the experiment. The combination of either drug with 0.5 g/kg of alcohol impaired co-ordination and attention to an extent which can be considered dangerous for traffic and occupational life. Their interaction with alcohol was not so strong as that between diazepam and alcohol. The combination of chlordiazepoxide with alcohol tended to increase the anxiety of the normal subjects.


Diagnosing residual motion via the x-ray self emission from indirectly driven inertial confinement implosions.
In an indirectly driven implosion, non-radial translational motion of the compressed fusion capsule is a signature of residual kinetic energy not coupled into the compressional heating of the target. A reduction in compression reduces the peak pressure and nuclear performance of the implosion. Measuring and reducing the residual motion of the implosion is therefore necessary to improve performance and isolate other effects that degrade performance. Using the gated x-ray diagnostic, the x-ray Bremsstrahlung emission from the compressed capsule is spatially and temporally resolved at x-ray energies of >8.7 keV, allowing for measurements of the residual velocity. Here details of the x-ray velocity measurement and fitting routine will be discussed and measurements will be compared to the velocities inferred from the neutron time of flight detectors.


Bronchoalveolar lavage cell analysis in patients with human immunodeficiency virus related diseases.
The value of differential cell counts in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in patients who were serologically positive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was studied in 30 patients with classified into four groups according to the severity of illness: (1) seven subjects with the AIDS related complex without clinical or radiological evidence of pulmonary infection; (2) eight patients with the AIDS related complex and pulmonary tuberculosis; (3) eight patients with AIDS and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia; and (4) seven patients with AIDS, Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, and severe respiratory failure. All four groups had a similar percentage of lymphocytes, significantly higher than that of a control group of 15 healthy volunteers. A significant increase in the percentage of neutrophils was observed in groups 2, 3, and 4. The lavage fluid differential cell count does not therefore appear to help in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary infections in HIV positive patients. The abnormal percentage of lymphocytes observed in some patients with the AIDS related complex without clinical evidence of pulmonary infection suggests that lung injury may exist before clinical or radiological abnormalities develop. This might be related to an immunological mechanism or might be caused by an undetected subclinical infection.


Mixtard 30 HM Penfill insulin treatment in selected young insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus patients. Romanian Young Diabetics Study Team (RYDST).
Twelve Romanian centers investigated the validity of a two daily insulin regimen using premixed biosynthetic human insulin Mixtard 30 HM Penfill (ratio: 30% rapid, 70% intermediate NPH-insulin) injected by NovoPen II in IDDM patients. Duration of the study was 16 weeks. A total of 159 patients aged 6 to 18 years were analyzed. Before study started, patients were educated about diabetes management and received strips for home blood glucose monitoring. After a 4-week run-in period on previous treatment (mainly two daily injections of self-mixed highly purified monocomponent porcine or human insulin given by conventional syringes), patients were transferred to two daily injections of Mixtard 30 HM Penfill insulin administered by NovoPen II. From transfer to study end (12 weeks) total daily insulin dose (mean +/- SD: 32.6 +/- 12.1 vs 33.9 +/- 12.2 IU) increased (p < 0.001), four-point blood glucose mean values decreased as well as HbA1 (11.4 +/- 2.2% vs 10.5 +/- 2.2%, p < 0.001), without a significant increase in the number of hypoglycemic events. NovoPen II was well accepted and preferred by patients. Achieved results might be ascribed to the use of Mixtard 30 HM Penfill treatment as well as to blood glucose monitoring and a better education. Follow-up measurement of HbA1 one year after transfer showed no statistically significant differences as compared to the values measured at the end of the study.


Polyoxometalates as chemically and structurally versatile components in self-assembled materials.
Polyoxometalates (POMs) are anionic molecular metal oxides with expansive diversity in terms of their composition, structure, nuclearity and charge. Within this vast collection of compounds are dominant structural motifs (POM platforms), that are amenable to significant chemical tuning with minimal perturbation of the inorganic oxide molecular structure. Consequently, this enables the systematic investigation of these compounds as inorganic additives within materials whereby structure and charge can be tuned independently i.e. [PW12O40]3- vs. [SiW12O40]4- while also investigating the impact of varying the charge balancing cations on self-assembly. The rich surface chemistry of POMs also supports their functionalisation by organic components to yield so-called inorganic-organic hybrids which will be the key focus of this perspective. We will introduce the modifications possible for each POM platform, as well as discussing the range of nanoparticles, microparticles and surfaces that have been developed using both surfactant and polymer building blocks. We will also illustrate important examples of POM-hybrids alongside their potential utility in applications such as imaging, therapeutic delivery and energy storage.


Intracardiac ectopic thyroid carcinosarcoma in a dog.
A 13-year-old spayed female Labrador Retriever with a 1-year history of progressive exercise intolerance was diagnosed with an interventricular mass in the heart via echocardiogram. The animal's general condition progressively declined over the next 8 months, and it was euthanatized. The intracardiac mass, which protruded into the lumen of the right ventricle, was removed at necropsy and fixed in 10% buffered formalin. Histopathologic diagnosis was an ectopic thyroid carcinosarcoma based on the presence of 3 distinct neoplastic tissue types. Intermixed within the tumor were neoplastic thyroid follicles containing colloid and solid nests of thyroid follicular epithelial cells, vascular channels and clefts filled with blood and lined by neoplastic endothelium, and osteoid surrounded by spindle cells and often rimmed by large multinucleated cells. Immunohistochemical reaction for thyroglobulin was positive in the tumor cells forming the colloid-filled follicles and solid nests of epithelial cells. Neoplastic endothelium was positive for factor VIII-related antigen. The thyroid gland was located in its normal anatomic position and was histologically normal, ruling out the possibility that the intracardiac tumor was a metastatic lesion. To the authors' knowledge this is the first reported case of an intracardiac ectopic thyroid carcinosarcoma, and possibly the first ectopic thyroid carcinosarcoma in any location in any species.


Near-Infrared Dye-Labeled Anti-Prostate Stem Cell Antigen Minibody Enables Real-Time Fluorescence Imaging and Targeted Surgery in Translational Mouse Models.
The inability to intraoperatively distinguish primary tumor, as well as lymphatic spread, increases the probability of positive surgical margins, tumor recurrence, and surgical toxicity. The goal of this study was to develop a tumor-specific optical probe for real-time fluorescence-guided surgery. A humanized antibody fragment against PSCA (A11 minibody, A11 Mb) was conjugated with a near-infrared fluorophore, IRDye800CW. The integrity and binding of the probe to PSCA were confirmed by gel electrophoresis, size-exclusion chromatography, and flow cytometry, respectively. The ability of the probe to detect tumor-infiltrated lymph nodes and metastatic lesions was evaluated in 2 xenograft models, as well as in transgenic mice expressing human PSCA (hPSCA). An invasive intramuscular model was utilized to evaluate the efficacy of the A11 Mb-IRDye800CW-guided surgery. A11 Mb was successfully conjugated with IRDye800CW and retained specific binding to PSCA. In vivo imaging showed maximal signal-to-background ratios at 48 hours. The A11 Mb-IRDye800CW specifically detected PSCA-positive primary tumors, tumor-infiltrated lymph nodes, and distant metastases with high contrast. Fluorescence guidance facilitated more complete tumor resection, reduced tumor recurrence, and improved overall survival, compared with conventional white light surgery. The probe successfully identified primary orthotopic tumors and metastatic lesions in hPSCA transgenic mice. Real-time fluorescence image-guided surgery with A11 Mb-IRDye800CW enabled detection of lymph node metastases and positive surgical margins, facilitated more complete tumor removal, and improved survival, compared with white light surgery. These results may be translatable into clinical practice to improve surgical and patient outcomes.


Tumor lysis syndrome and acute renal failure--an increasing spectrum of presentations.
Tumor lysis syndrome has historically been associated with hyperuricemia and uric acid crystal deposition. We present three cases of tumor lysis syndrome resulting in renal failure in the context of normouricema, highlighting the spectrum of clinical presentations and mechanisms of renal damage. Two cases occurred following the treatment of hematological malignancies and were associated with hyperphosphatemia; the third resulted from ischemic necrosis following transarterial chemoembolization of a hepatic tumor. We also discuss the role of renal biopsy in the investigation of tumor lysis syndrome.


Immunohistochemistry of bone-marrow biopsy.
In a percentage of cases, conventional morphologic evaluation of bone-marrow needle biopsy (BMNB) in insufficient to achieve a firm diagnosis. Under these circumstances, immunohistochemistry plays a basic role, providing an easy and objective key for the interpretation of the pattern observed in most instances. Herein, the authors focus on the technical procedures, which allow extensive application of immunohistochemistry to the study of BMNB, as well as on the panels of antibodies needed for the identification of the most relevant conditions.


Small-scale heterogeneity in soil quality influences photosynthetic efficiency and habitat selection in a clonal plant.
In clonal plants, internode connections allow translocation of photosynthates, water, nutrients and other substances among ramets. Clonal plants form large systems that are likely to experience small-scale spatial heterogeneity. Physiological and morphological responses of Fragaria vesca to small-scale heterogeneity in soil quality were investigated, together with how such heterogeneity influences the placement of ramets. As a result of their own activities plants may modify the suitability of their habitats over time. However, most experiments on habitat selection by clonal plants have not generally considered time as an important variable. In the present study, how the foraging behaviour of clonal plants may change over time was also investigated. In a complex of environments with different heterogeneity, plant performance was determined in terms of biomass, ramet production and photosynthetic activity. To identify habitat selection, the number of ramets produced and patch where they rooted were monitored. Parent ramets in heterogeneous environments showed significantly higher maximum and effective quantum yields of photosystem II than parents in homogeneous environments. Parents in heterogeneous environments also showed significantly higher investment in photosynthetic biomass and stolon/total biomass, produced longer stolons, and had higher mean leaf size than parents in homogeneous environments. Total biomass and number of offspring ramets were similar in both environments. However, plants in homogeneous environments showed random allocation of offspring ramets to surrounding patches, whereas plants in heterogeneous environments showed preferential allocation of offspring to higher-quality patches. The results suggest that F. vesca employs physiological and morphological strategies to enable efficient resource foraging in heterogeneous environments and demonstrate the benefits of physiological integration in terms of photosynthetic efficiency. The findings indicate that short-term responses cannot be directly extrapolated to the longer term principally because preferential colonization of high-quality patches means that these patches eventually show reduced quality. This highlights the importance of considering the time factor in experiments examining responses of clonal plants to heterogeneity.


Changes in Cigarette, E-Cigarette, and Cannabis Use among U.S. College Students Studying Abroad.
Background: Study abroad experiences among U.S. college students are risky environments for alcohol use; however little work has examined how studying abroad may affect other substance use. Purpose: This study assesses changes in frequency of cigarette, e-cigarette, and cannabis use among students studying abroad. Methods: We recruited study abroad students from 63 institutions who studied in the 12 most popular destinations; 2,086 students completed surveys before leaving the U.S. and during their last month abroad. Descriptive and multivariate mixed-effects regression analysis compared substance use by location between students and country natives using publicly available data, identified behavioral and demographic predictors of frequency of substance use abroad, and estimated average adjusted prevalence of substance use by location. Results: Students' cigarette smoking increased three-fold while abroad; patterns of use varied significantly by location and mirrored smoking behaviors of native young adults. Rates of e-cigarette use declined while abroad and rates of cannabis use were similar abroad to pre-departure rates. However, cannabis use varied substantially by location and were higher than native peer rates. For all substances, most frequent substance use abroad was reported among males and those with prior histories of single drug and polydrug use. Conclusion: Findings highlight the importance of continued research on drug use abroad among U.S. college students and pave the way for initial prevention and intervention efforts to target drug use abroad, particularly for cigarettes due to the negative health consequences of use and for cannabis given the potential legal ramification of use in non-legalized countries.


Baboon perspectives on the ecology and behavior of early human ancestors.
For more than 70 y researchers have looked to baboons (monkeys of the genus Papio) as a source of hypotheses about the ecology and behavior of early hominins (early human ancestors and their close relatives). This approach has undergone a resurgence in the last decade as a result of rapidly increasing knowledge from experimental and field studies of baboons and from archeological and paleontological studies of hominins. The result is a rich array of analogies, scenarios, and other stimuli to thought about the ecology and behavior of early hominins. The main intent here is to illustrate baboon perspectives on early hominins, with emphasis on recent developments. This begins with a discussion of baboons and hominins as we know them currently and explains the reasons for drawing comparisons between them. These include occupation of diverse environments, combination of arboreal and terrestrial capabilities, relatively large body size, and sexual dimorphism. The remainder of the paper illustrates the main points with a small number of examples drawn from diverse areas of interest: diet (grasses and fish), danger (leopards and crocodiles), social organization (troops and multilevel societies), social relationships (male-male, male-female, female-female), communication (possible foundations of language), cognition (use of social information, comparison of self to others), and bipedalism (a speculative developmental hypothesis about the neurological basis). The conclusion is optimistic about the future of baboon perspectives on early hominins.


Optimizing mitral valve exposure with conventional left atriotomy.
The standard surgical approach to the mitral valve is accomplished through a longitudinal incision in the left atrium, posterior and parallel to the interatrial groove. Many other surgical approaches have evolved. This report describes a technique of optimizing mitral valve exposure via the standard approach. These modifications are simple, do not lengthen the procedure, and usually obviate the need for more complex maneuvers.


Acoustic monitoring indicates a correlation between calling and spawning in captive spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus).
Fish sound production is widespread throughout many families. Territorial displays and courtship are the most common reasons for fish sound production. Yet, there is still some questions on how acoustic signaling and reproduction are correlated in many sound-producing species. In the present study, our aim was to determine if a quantitative relationship exists between calling and egg deposition in captive spotted seatrout (Cynoscion nebulosus). This type of data is essential if passive acoustics is to be used to identify spawning aggregations over large spatial scales and monitor reproductive activity over annual and decadal timeframes. Acoustic recorders (i.e., DSG-Oceans) were placed in three laboratory tanks to record underwater sound over an entire, simulated reproductive season. We enumerated the number of calls, calculated the received sound pressure level, and counted the number of eggs every morning in each tank. Spotted seatrout produced three distinct call types characterized as "drums," "grunts," and "staccatos." Spotted seatrout calling increased as the light cycle shifted from 13.5 to 14.5 h of light, and the temperature increased to 27.7 °C. Calling decreased once the temperature fell below 27.7 °C, and the light cycle shifted to 12 h of light. These temperature and light patterns followed the natural reproductive season observed in wild spotted seatrout in the Southeast United States. Spotted seatrout exhibited daily rhythms in calling. Acoustic signaling began once the lights turned off, and calling reached maximum activity approximately 3 h later. Eggs were released only on evenings in which spotted seatrout were calling. In all tanks, spotted seatrout were more likely to spawn when male fish called more frequently. A positive relationship between SPL and the number of eggs collected was found in Tanks 1 and 3. Our findings indicate that acoustic metrics can predict spawning potential. These findings are important because plankton tows may not accurately reflect spawning locations since egg capture is likely affected by predator activity and water currents. Instead, passive acoustics could be used to monitor spotted seatrout reproduction. Future studies can use this captive study as a model to record the estuarine soundscape precisely over long time periods to better understand how human-made stressors (e.g., climate change, noise pollution, and chemical pollutants) may affect spawning patterns.


Correlations between dual-phase 18F-FDG uptake and clinicopathologic and biological markers of breast cancer.
To assess the correlations between dual-phase fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) uptake and clinicopathological and immunohistochemical prognostic factors in patients with surgically resected breast cancer. We retrospectively analyzed the cases of 105 patients. We calculated the maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) at 85min (SUV1), SUVmax at 125min (SUV2) and the retention index [RI]. Spearman's rank correlation test, the Kruskal-Wallis test and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were performed to assess the association between 18F-FDG uptake and the clinicopathological and immunohistochemical factors: glucose transporter-1 (Glut-1), estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), ERβ, progesterone receptor (PR), human epidermal growth factor 2 (Her2), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and P70S6kinase (P70S6). The SUV1 and SUV2 values were correlated with Glut-1, pathological tumor size, ERα negativity, and pathological stage (all P values were <0.05), but not with mTOR, P70S6, ERβ, PR, Her2 or other factors. The SUV1 and SUV2 in the triple negative subtype were significantly higher than those of the hormone receptor-positive subtype (P<0.05). The RI was associated with pathological tumor size alone. In the ROC analysis of Glut-1, the areas under the curve for SUV1 and SUV2 were significantly larger than that for RI (SUV1, P=0.032, SUV2, P=0.022). Glucose transporter-1, estrogen receptor alpha negativity and nuclear grade might affect the high 18F-FDG uptake in breast cancer. The SUVmax might be more useful than the RI for predicting the Glut-1 expression and the aggressiveness of breast cancer.


Reduplicative paramnesia.
A striking behavioral abnormality is described in three individuals who had severe head trauma. At a point when general mnestic capabilities had returned to a near normal level, the patients persistently relocated the hospital at another geographical site, even in the face of compelling counter-evidence. The strong parallels in the etiology and course of the three cases justify the positing of a syndrome, here termed reduplicative paramnesia. A neuropsychologic analysis of the disorder stresses the cognitive operations entailed in geographical localization and confabulation. Clinical-pathologic considerations underline the role of right hemisphere and frontal lobe structures in the syndrome.


Ecology and Evolution of Blood Oxygen-Carrying Capacity in Birds.
Blood oxygen-carrying capacity is one of the important determinants of the amount of oxygen supplied to the tissue per unit time and plays a key role in oxidative metabolism. In wild vertebrates, blood oxygen-carrying capacity is most commonly measured with the total blood hemoglobin concentration (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct), which is the volume percentage of red blood cells in blood. Here, I used published estimates of avian Hb and Hct (nearly 1,000 estimates from 300 species) to examine macroevolutionary patterns in the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood in birds. Phylogenetically informed comparative analysis indicated that blood oxygen-carrying capacity was primarily determined by species distribution (latitude and elevation) and morphological constraints (body mass). I found little support for the effect of life-history components on blood oxygen-carrying capacity except for a positive association of Hct with clutch size. Hb was also positively associated with diving behavior, but I found no effect of migratoriness on either Hb or Hct. Fluctuating selection was identified as the major force shaping the evolution of blood oxygen-carrying capacity. The results offer novel insights into the evolution of Hb and Hct in birds, and they provide a general, phylogenetically robust support for some long-standing hypotheses in avian ecophysiology.


A prospective phase II trial to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of hepatic arterial infusion of ifosfamide in patients with inoperable localized hepatocellular carcinoma.
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common tumor in the developing countries. Most patients present with relatively advanced disease and have a poor survival. Due to lack of any effective therapy, there is an urgent need to investigate new drugs. We conducted a prospective trial to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of ifosfamide (IFEX) in patients with histologically proved, inoperable, localized HCC. Eligibility criteria included World Health Organization (WHO) performance status (PS) of 0-2, bilirubin < or = 3.0 mg/dl, albumin > or = 2.5 g/dl, creatinine < or = 2.0 mg/dl, correctable coagulation profile, adequate bone marrow function, and no prior therapy. Hepatic arterial infusion of IFEX (6 g/m2) was given continuously over 96 hours. Mesna was given intravenously, in same doses, throughout IFEX infusion and for 12 hours afterwards. Nineteen patients were enrolled in the trial. Mean age was 51.1 years and all were men. Most of the patients had PS 1. The majority had viral hepatitis and cirrhosis. Eleven had raised serum alpha fetoprotein (AFP) levels. Thirteen patients had multiple lesions involving both lobes of the liver. Mean size of ultrasonographically evident largest lesion was 11.0 cm. Three patients are inevaluable; one died early, one refused further therapy, and another was lost to follow-up. Among the 16 evaluable patients, 6 (37.5%) had partial remission and 4 (25%) had a minor response. An additional four (25%) patients had stable disease. Only two (12.5%) patients had progression of disease while on therapy. Overall response rate (partial plus minor) was 62.5%. Mean duration of partial response was 5.0 months and mean survival was 7.1 months. Subjective improvement in pain was observed in all but two patients and correlated well with the objective response. Chemotherapy-related side effects were predominantly grade III-IV anemia and alopecia. Three patients had catheter-related complications (one local infection, one bleeding, and one thrombosis). Two patients developed mild encephalopathy and two had hepatic decompensation as evidenced by worsening liver function tests. The results of this pilot study suggest that IFEX, given as a continuous hepatic arterial infusion, is an active drug in inoperable localized HCC. Toxicity is manageable. This drug deserves further trials to properly evaluate its therapeutic potential.


Precise Control of Trypsin Immobilization by a Programmable DNA Tetrahedron Designed for Ultrafast Proteome Digestion and Accurate Protein Quantification.
In proteomics research, with advantages including short digestion times and reusable applications, immobilized enzyme reactors (IMERs) have been paid increasing attention. However, traditional IMERs ignore the reasonable spatial arrangement of trypsin on the supporting matrixes, resulting in the partial overlapping of the active domain on trypsin and reducing digesting efficiency. In this work, a DNA tetrahedron (DNA TET)-based IMER Fe3O4-GO-AuNPs-DNA TET-Trypsin was designed and prepared. The distance between vertices of DNA TETs effectively controls the distribution of trypsin on the nanomaterials; thus, highly efficient protein digestion and accurate quantitative results can be achieved. Compared to the in-solution digestion (12-16 h), the sequence coverage of bovine serum albumin was up to 91% after a 2-min digestion by the new IMER. In addition, 3328 proteins and 18,488 peptides can be identified from HeLa cell protein extract after a 20-min digestion. For the first time, human growth hormone reference material was rapidly and accurately quantified after a 4-h digestion by IMER. Therefore, this new IMER has great application potential in proteomics research and SI traceable quantification.


Effects of hyperbaric oxygen on gene expressions of procollagen, matrix metalloproteinase and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase in injured medial collateral ligament and anterior cruciate ligament.
Animal experiments were performed to investigate whether and how the administration of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) affects gene expressions of procollagens, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in injured medial collateral ligament (MCL) and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). In 64 Sprague-Dawley rats, the MCL of the left knee was lacerated at the midsubstance, and the ACL of the left knee was lacerated adjacent to the tibial insertion in another 64 rats. Of these, 32 rats with lacerated MCL and 32 rats with lacerated ACL were housed in individual cages at normal atmospheric pressure (Groups MC and AC, respectively), while the remaining 64 rats were exposed to 100% oxygen at 2.5 atmospheres absolute for 2 h for 5 days a week (Groups MH and AH, respectively). Rats were sacrificed at 3, 7, 14 and 28 days postoperatively. After macroscopic examination, bilateral MCLs were harvested from Groups MC and MH, and bilateral ACLs from Groups AC and AH. Total RNA was extracted from each specimen and gene expressions of type I and type III procollagens, MMP-2, -9 and -3, and TIMP-1 and -2 were estimated using semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Macroscopically, lacerated MCL healed by scar tissue formation, the amount of which appeared to be greater in Group MH than in Group MC. In contrast, no lacerated ACLs united, and little, if any, differences were apparent in macroscopic findings between Groups AH and AC. Gene expression of type I procollagen was significantly greater in Group MH than in Group MC at 7 days postoperatively and was also significantly greater in Group AH than in Group AC at 28 days (P<0.05). No significant differences in type III procollagen gene expression were noted between Groups MH and MC or between Groups AH and AC. In addition, no significant differences in gene expressions of MMPs were seen in either ligament, except that gene expression of MMP-13 was significantly lower at 7 days in Group MH than in Group MC (P<0.05). Gene expressions of TIMPs did not differ significantly between Groups MH and MC in each time interval, whereas gene expressions of TIMPs were significantly greater in Group AH than in Group AC at 7, 14 and 28 days for TIMP-1 and at 3, 7 and 14 days for TIMP-2 (P<0.05). RT-PCR results suggested that HBO enhances structural protein synthesis and inhibits degradative processes by enhancing TIMP activities in the lacerated ACL. However, none of the lacerated ACLs united macroscopically despite administration of HBO, indicating that the effect of HBO is insufficient for healing of the injured ACL. If HBO therapy is used as an adjunctive therapy after primary repair of the injured ACL, the success rate of surgery seems likely to be increased.


Room-temperature immobilization of gold nanoparticles on Si(111) surface and their electron behaviour.
Successful covalent soft immobilization of gold nanoparticles on Si(111) surface by simple immersion of hydrogen-terminated silicon wafer into a toluene dispersion of gold nanoparticles was achieved by use of a phenylalkyne-type stabilizing ligand, and the electron behaviour was investigated using a conducting AFM.


Immunohistochemical detection of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine in paraffin-embedded sections of rat liver after carbon tetrachloride treatment.
To test the applicability of an anti-8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG) antibody for immunohistochemistry using paraffin-embedded sections, carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced rat liver injury was evaluated. Male rats were given a single dose of CCl4 and killed at 6 hr, 12 hr, 1, 2, 3, and 7 days thereafter. Severe centrilobular necrosis was evident at 1 day. At 2 days, moderate mononuclear cell infiltration was present in centrilobular necrotic regions. Infiltrating mononuclear cells, surrounding sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatocytes were stained with anti-8-OH-dG antibody at 2 and 3 days. Formation of 8-OH-dG in DNA and 8-oxo-dGTPase mRNA expression were also increased at these time points, the amounts of malondialdehyde and 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal showed 2 peaks at 6 hr and 3 days. The findings suggest that the main contributory factor in the massive hepatic necrosis was increased lipid peroxidation, rather than excessive formation of 8-OH-dG, and that the observed increase in the latter was largely due to infiltrating mononuclear cells. The agreement between biochemical data and the results for immunohistochemical analysis confirms that the anti-8-OH-dG antibody is applicable for detection of cells targeted by free radicals in paraffin-embedded sections and also for investigation of the mechanisms of oxidative damage-related disease, including carcinogenesis.


Mechanisms of the enhanced antibacterial effect of Ag-TiO2 coatings.
It has been demonstrated that Ag-TiO2 nanocomposite coatings with excellent antimicrobial activity and biocompatibility have the potential to reduce infection problems. However, the mechanism of the synergistic effect of Ag-TiO2 coatings on antibacterial efficiency is still not well understood. In this study, five types of Ag-TiO2 nanocomposited coatings with different TiO2 contents were prepared on a titanium substratum. Leaching tests indicated that the incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles into an Ag matrix significantly promoted Ag ion release. Surface energy measurements showed that the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles also significantly increased the electron donor surface energy of the coatings. Bacterial adhesion assays with Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated that the number of adhered bacteria decreased with increasing electron donor surface energy. The increased Ag ion release rate and the increased electron donor surface energy contributed to an enhanced antibacterial efficiency of the coatings.


Removing barriers? An overview of the Canadian Access to Medicines Regime.
As a result of significant public health issues in the developing world, there has been a strong desire to increase access to available treatments. In 2005, Canada amended its Patent Act to create the Canadian Access to Medicines Regime ("CAMR") to provide a mechanism whereby a Canadian manufacturer could produce patented pharmaceutical products for export to countries experiencing public health crises. As one of the first countries to enact such a detailed legislative regime, Canada attempted to create a model for addressing the problems created by the intersection of public health and patents. In 2007, Rwanda indicated its intention to import an HIV-drug from the Canadian generic manufacture Apotex. Rwanda's application marked the first time a country had utilized the CAMR in order to obtain essential medicines. This article examines the Canadian CAMR model, its origins, and its effectiveness to date.


Nondermatomal somatosensory deficits in chronic pain are associated with cerebral grey matter changes.
Widespread sensory deficits occur in 20-40% of chronic pain patients on the side of pain, independent of pain aetiology, and are known as nondermatomal sensory deficits (NDSDs). NDSDs can occur in absence of central or peripheral nervous system lesions. We hypothesised that NDSDs were associated with cerebral grey matter changes in the sensory system and in pain processing regions, detectable with voxel-based morphometry. Twenty-five patients with NDSDs, 23 patients without NDSDs ("pain-only"), and 29 healthy controls were studied with high resolution structural MRI of the brain. A comprehensive clinical and psychiatric evaluation based on Diagnostic and Statistical Manual was performed in all patients. Patients with NDSDs and "pain-only" did not differ concerning demographic data and psychiatric diagnoses, although anxiety scores (HADS-A) were higher in patients with NDSDs. In patients with NDSDs, grey matter increases were found in the right primary sensory cortex, thalamus, and bilaterally in lateral temporal regions and the hippocampus/fusiform gyrus. "Pain-only" patients showed a bilateral grey matter increase in the posterior insula and less pronounced changes in sensorimotor cortex. Dysfunctional sensory processing in patients with NDSDs is associated with complex changes in grey matter volume, involving the somatosensory system and temporal regions.


All-Solid-State Self-Healing Ionic Conductors Enabled by Ion-Dipole Interactions within Fluorinated Poly(Ionic Liquid) Copolymers.
Self-healing ionic conductors in all solid state without evaporation or leakage offers great potential for the next-generation soft ionotronics. However, it remains challenging to endow ionic conductors with all solid state while keeping their essential features. In this study, an intrinsically conducting polymer is developed as all-solid-state self-healing ionic conductors based on ion-dipole interactions within a fluorinated poly(ionic liquid) copolymer. This unique material possesses good self-healing ability at room temperature (96% of healing efficiency in 24 h), large strain (1800%), optical transparency (96%), and ionic conductivity (1.62 × 10-6 S/cm). The self-healing polymer itself is intrinsically conductive without any additives or fillers, thus it is almost free of evaporation or leaking issues of traditional conducting gels. An alternating-current electroluminescent device with self-healing performance is demonstrated. It is anticipated that this strategy would provide new opportunities for the development of novel self-healing ionotronics.


Rhythmogenesis, amplitude modulation, and multiplexing in a cortical architecture.
In a network of excitatory and inhibitory neurons, hyperpolarization-activated inward currents can help to produce population rhythms in which individual cells participate sparsely and randomly. A shift in the activation curve of such a current changes the fraction of the cells participating in any given cycle of the population rhythm, thus changing the amplitude of the field potential. Furthermore, the frequency of the population rhythm remains relatively fixed over a substantial range of amplitudes, allowing the population rhythm to play a separate processing role from that of the individual components.


[Role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of shoulder joint injury].
To define the role of ultrasonography in the diagnostic algorithm for patients with shoulder joint injury and to show its potential for the detection of rotator cuff tears and Hill-Sachs lesions. A group of 52 patients with clinical signs of shoulder disorders following trauma who were treated in the 2005-2006 period. After ultrasonographic examination, all patients were surgically treated by arthroscopy. In 12 of them an additional magnetic resonance imaging was carried out before surgery. The results of ultrasonography were compared with arthroscopic findings in terms of detection of full-thickness rotator cuff tears and Hill-Sachs lesions. These were the two most frequent traumatic lesions detected by ultrasonography. A full-thickness tear of the rotator cuff was correctly diagnosed in 13 patients. In further four the ultrasound finding was incorrectly interpreted as a moderate rotator cuff injury. For the detection of full-thickness tears, the sensitivity of the method was 76 %, its specificity was 94 % and accuracy 88 %. The detection of Hill-Sachs lesions by ultrasonography correlated with arthroscopic findings, with a sensitivity of 86 %, specificity of 93 % and accuracy of 92 %. A number of studies report on options for the ultrasonographic detection of various types of traumatic injury to shoulder structures. Examination by ultrasound shows skeletal surfaces, thus permitting detection of a minor bone injury or a Hill- Sachs defect, and reveals soft tissue shoulder structures including tendons, ligaments and bursae. In some studies the possibility of detecting rotator cuff tears by ultrasonography has been described. Although sufficient accuracy of ultrasonographic examination in this region is reported, the results are not consistent. Our results show high reliability of ultrasonography for the diagnosis of shoulder trauma. The detection of full-thickness rotator cuff tears and Hill-Sachs lesions was possible with sufficient accuracy, which makes this quick, simple and available examination a valuable diagnostic tool. The finding of a rotator cuff tear is important information for the orthopaedist and, in the majority of patients, is also an indication for surgery. An ultrasonographic examination can therefore be regarded as a standard part of the diagnostic algorithm for shoulder trauma.


Clinical profile, predictors of mortality, and treatment of patients after myocardial infarction, in an academic medical center hospital.
To evaluate clinical profiles, predictors of 30-day mortality, and the adherence to international recommendations for the treatment of myocardial infarction in an academic medical center hospital. We retrospectively studied 172 patients with acute myocardial infarction, admitted in the intensive care unit from January 1992 to December 1997. Most patients were male (68%), white (97%), and over 60 years old (59%). The main risk factor for coronary atherosclerotic disease was systemic blood hypertension (63%). Among all the variables studied, reperfusion therapy, smoking, hypertension, cardiogenic shock, and age were the predictors of 30-day mortality. Most commonly used medications were: acetylsalicylic acid (71%), nitrates (61%), diuretics (51%), angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (46%), thrombolytic therapy (39%), and beta-blockers (35%). The absence of reperfusion therapy, smoking status, hypertension, cardiogenic shock, and advanced age are predictors of 30-day mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction. In addition, some medications that are undoubtedly beneficial have been under-used after acute myocardial infarction.


Influence of interferon-alpha on the expression of cellular oncogenes in primary chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells.
The influence of interferon-alpha 2 (IFN-alpha 2) on the mRNA levels of cellular proto-oncogenes was studied in malignant cells from patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). These cells can be induced to blast transform, differentiate and, in some cases, proliferate upon exposure to IFN. Treatment with IFN-alpha enhanced the levels of c-myc mRNA in malignant cells from the patients, whereas the levels of c-myb mRNA decreased, as measured by slot blot hybridizations. In cells from some patients, an enhanced expression of c-fos and k-ras was observed following exposure to IFN-alpha. No major effect on the expression of c-raf or of enolase was observed in any of the patients following exposure to IFN-alpha, whereas the levels of beta 2-microglobulin mRNA increased. In contrast to the observed effects on oncogene expression in CLL cells, IFN had no major effect on the expression of any of the tested oncogenes in lymphocytes from healthy donors or in B-cells from three neoplastic cell lines (380, FL18, RS). We conclude that IFN-alpha can enhance or repress the expression of several oncogenes in nondividing primary malignant cells from patients with leukemia. We also show that the response of malignant cells from patients to IFN-alpha is different than that seen with neoplastic cell lines which represent a similar stage of B-cell differentiation.


Lipopolysaccharide-induced lung inflammation is inhibited by neutralization of GM-CSF.
Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of acute and chronic lung disease as a major regulator governing the functions of granulocyte and macrophage lineage populations. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease characterized by lung inflammation with accumulation of neutrophils and increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines including GM-CSF in the patient's lungs. We used intranasal administration of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to mice to induce a disease that resembles COPD with pulmonary inflammation, neutrophil recruitment and release of pro-inflammatory mediators in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of the diseased mice. 2 h prior to LPS administration, mice were systemically treated with the murine GM-CSF neutralizing antibody mAb 22E9 per intraperitoneal injection. Intranasal challenge with LPS-induced an increase of total cell number and of neutrophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Elevated levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), keratinocyte cytokine and macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) were also observed at this time point. GM-CSF was no longer detectable in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid at 24 h due to its early expression with a peak reached 6 h after LPS challenge. Pretreatment of mice with GM-CSF neutralizing antibody dose-dependently inhibited the accumulation of neutrophils and reduced TNF-alpha and MIP-2 protein levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. These data suggest that neutralization of GM-CSF may represent a novel treatment modality for lung inflammation and in particular for COPD.


The immunosuppressive activity of proinflammatory cytokines in experimental models: potential for therapeutic intervention in autoimmunity.
The role of cytokines in the pathogenesis of T cell-mediated diseases, and in particular autoimmune responses, has been the subject of intense investigation in the past few years. Transgenic strains of mice have been generated, each expressing individual cytokines in organs targeted by autoimmunity. These animal models provide the most advanced tool available for analyzing the relationship between cytokines and T-dependent autoimmune responses. On the one hand, these experiments confirm that the local expression of proinflammatory cytokines is pivotal in initiating and maintaining pathogenic responses to self. On the other hand, and somewhat unexpectedly, these models have also revealed that cytokine factors controlling autoimmunity can act both as potentiating and inhibitory agents, depending upon the site and timing of exposure. As a result, one major concept emerging from different experimental models, including those originally established in our laboratory, is that proinflammatory cytokines may ameliorate autoimmunity. In this review, we analyze the mechanisms whereby cytokines that are considered as proinflammatory may in contrast suppress immune responses to self antigens. Besides emphasizing that the proinflammatory/immunogenic properties of a given cytokine may not be an intrinsic property, we review evidence that the regulation imposed by the cytokine network on autoimmunity is a finely tuned balance between activation and downmodulation of an individual autoreactive T cell repertoire. By emphasizing that factors such as the duration of cytokine exposure and the type of cell population involved strongly influence that balance, we underline the potential therapeutic implications of cytokine-mediated modulation of autoimmunity.


Eczema and dry skin in older people: identification and management.
Skin conditions affect up to 70% of older people. Among the commonest are those which are caused by or present as dry, itchy skin. This article discusses the three most common of these--asteatotic, gravitational and discoid eczemas--and offers straightforward advice that nurses can pass on to their patients for how to mitigate and manage these conditions. Central to this is avoidance of soaps and the use of emollients.


Sesquiterpene fractions of Artemisia plants as potent inhibitors of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 expression.
Artemisia species are important medicinal plants throughout the world. Some species are traditionally used for their anti-inflammatory effect. The present study was designed to isolate sesquiterpene fractions from several Artemisia species and evaluate their anti-inflammatory activities on key mediators and signaling molecules involved in regulation of inflammation. Sesquiterpene fractions were prepared from several Artemisia species using the Herz-Högenauer technique. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated J774A.1 macrophages were exposed to isolated fractions. Their possible cytotoxic effect was examined using MTT assay. In addition, nitric oxide (NO) release was measured using Griess method and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) level was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Moreover, protein expression of pro-inflammatory enzymes, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) were investigated using Western blot analysis. Nitric oxide level produced by LPS-primed macrophages was significantly decreased with all prepared fractions in a dose-dependent manner. Saturated sesquiterpene lactones-rich species (Artemisia kopetdaghensis, Artemisia santolina, Artemisia sieberi) showed the highest suppressive activity on NO and PGE2 production via suppression of iNOS and COX-2 expression. Fractions bearing unusual (Artemisia fragrans and Artemisia absinthium) and unsaturated sesquiterpene lactones (Artemisia ciniformis) possess less modulatory effect on PGE2 production and COX-2 expression. It can be concluded that some of the medicinally beneficial effects attributed to Artemisia plants may be associated with the inhibition of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways. However, these effects could be dependent on the type of their sesquiterpene content. These findings also introduce new Artemis species cultivated in Iran as a useful anti-inflammatory agents.


Capillary hemangioma of the central nervous system.
Capillary hemangiomas are benign tumors or tumorlike lesions that originate from blood vessels and have rarely been reported to develop in the brain or spinal cord. The authors summarize the clinical and histological features of capillary hemangiomas of the central nervous system (CNS). The clinical features, imaging characteristics, and outcomes in 10 patients with CNS capillary hemangiomas were reviewed. Histological studies included immunostaining with CD31, alpha-smooth muscle actin, vascular endothelial growth factor, and Ki-67 antigen. Three patients with lesions in the brain presented with symptoms of increased intracranial pressure or seizures. Seven patients with lesions in the spinal cord presented with progressive sensorimotor disturbances of the lower limbs. Computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated well-defined, enhancing lesions associated with marked perifocal edema. Angiography demonstrated hypervascular lesions, which have not recurred after resection. In two cases, multiple satellite lesions resolved after the systemic administration of steroid drugs or interferon-alpha. Histologically, all lesions were consistent with findings of capillary hemangioma of the skin or soft tissues. The CNS lesions differed significantly from other vascular neoplasms, such as hemangioendotheliomas, hemangiopericytomas, and hemangioblastomas. Capillary hemangiomas of the CNS are benign lesions that can be surgically removed and cured without adjuvant therapy.


A path model of chronic stress, the metabolic syndrome, and coronary heart disease.
We tested a theoretical stress model cross-sectionally and prospectively that examined whether relationships of chronic stress, psychophysiology, and coronary heart disease (CHD) varied in older adult men (N = 47), older adult women not using hormone replacement therapy (HRT) (N = 64), and older adult women using HRT (N = 41). Structural equations examined relationships of CHD with 1) chronic stress (caring for a spouse with Alzheimer's disease and patient functioning), 2) vulnerability (anger and hostility), 3) social resources (supports), 4) psychological distress (burden, sleep problems, and low uplifts), 5) poor health habits (high-caloric, high-fat diet and limited exercise), and 6) the metabolic syndrome (MS) (blood pressure, obesity, insulin, glucose, and lipids). Caregiver men had a greater prevalence of CHD (13/24) than did noncaregiver men (6/23) (p <.05) 27 to 30 months after study entry. This was influenced by pathways from caregiving to distress, distress to the MS, and the MS to CHD. In men, poor health habits predicted the MS 15 to 18 months later, and the MS predicted new CHD cases over 27 to 30 months. In women, no "caregiving-CHD" relationship occurred; however, 15 to 18 months after study entry women not using HRT showed "distress-MS" and "MS-CHD" relationships. In women using HRT, associations did not occur among distress, the MS, and CHD, but poor health habits and the MS were related. In older men, pathways occurred from chronic stress to distress to the metabolic syndrome, which in turn predicted CHD. Older women not using HRT showed fewer pathways than men; however, over time, distress, the MS, and CHD were related. No psychophysiological pathways occurred in older women using HRT.


Two interacting bZIP proteins are direct targets of COP1-mediated control of light-dependent gene expression in Arabidopsis.
Arabidopsis COP1 acts to repress photomorphogenesis in the absence of light. It was shown that in the dark, COP1 directly interacts with the bZIP transcription factor HY5, a positive regulator of photomorphogenesis, and promotes its proteasome-mediated degradation. Here we identify a novel bZIP protein HYH, as a new target of COP1. We identify a physical and genetic interaction between HYH and COP1 and show that this interaction results in dark-specific degradation of HYH. Genetic analysis indicates that HYH is predominantly involved in blue-light regulation of development and gene expression, and that the function of HYH in part overlaps with that of HY5. The accumulation of HYH protein, not the mRNA, is dependent on the presence of HY5. Our data suggest that HYH and HY5 can, respectively, act as heterodimers and homodimers, thus mediating light-regulated expression of overlapping as well as distinct target genes. We propose that COP1 mediates light control of gene expression through targeted degradation of multiple photomorphogenesis-promoting transcription factors in the nucleus.


Evaluation for clinical utility of GPC3, measured by a commercially available ELISA kit with Glypican-3 (GPC3) antibody, as a serological and histological marker for hepatocellular carcinoma.
We evaluated the clinical utility of glypican-3 (GPC3), which has been proposed as a potential novel tumor marker for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), as a serological and histological marker for HCC. The serum GPC3 level was compared between 200 patients with HCC and 200 patients with chronic liver disease (CLD). In addition, the expression of GPC3 was examined with immunohistochemistry on 38 resected specimens from patients with HCC. A commercially available GPC3 antibody was used for these analyses. The median values of serum GPC3 in patients with HCC and with CLD were 924.8 pg/mL and 1161.6 pg/mL, respectively. We found no elevation of serum GPC3 level in patients with HCC in comparison with those with CLD; rather the level was higher in patients with CLD (P < 0.0001). In immunohistochemical analysis, 14 of 38 (36.9%) HCC tissues were positive for GPC3, whereas no corresponding non-cancerous tissue was positive. The positivity for GPC3 tended to increase with pathologic decreased differentiation of HCC. We did not find serum GPC3 level, measured by a commercially available ELISA kit with GPC3 antibody, to be useful in the diagnosis of HCC. However, we did observe increased GPC3 staining in HCC tissue with moderate or poor differentiation, suggesting that GPC3 is produced by HCC tumors. This lack of utility could have been due to the measuring procedure used in the present study. Further evaluation of GPC3 in HCC with other measuring procedures is needed.


Neck injuries among electric utility workers, 1995-2007.
To describe the incidence and impact of neck injuries among electric utility workers. Rates of neck injuries per 10,000 employee-years were calculated for various demographic and occupational factors using data from an injury surveillance database established among 17 electric utility companies over the period 1995-2007. The overall rate of neck injuries was 13.3. Male workers had a slightly higher rate than females, and younger workers (<30) had the highest neck injury rates. Trade/craft workers experienced the highest rates of neck injuries, whereas office-based experienced the lowest. The majority of neck injuries (69%) were sprain/strains and resulted in less than 1 lost day of work (76.7%). The occurrence of neck injuries in the electric utility workforce varies widely with respect to age, sex, and occupational groups with different characteristics, activities, and work environments. Industry-wide surveillance allows easier identification of injury patterns and risk factors of various injury types and facilitates the development of targeted prevention and intervention strategies to reduce the occurrence of these injuries.


Determining and surveying the role of carnitine and folic acid to decrease fatigue in β-thalassemia minor subjects.
Beta-thalassemia minor (BTM) patients usually experience fatigue, bone pain complaint, and muscle weakness. Carnitine is an essential protein for transportation of long-chain fatty acids to the matrix for beta-oxidation. BTM patients have abnormally low plasma carnitine concentrations, which results in deficient ATP production. Carnitine and folic acid together may have a role in preventing bone pain complaint and fatigue in these patients. The aim of this study is to determine the effect of carnitine and folic acid supplementation in subjects with BTM. Seventy three BTM (mean age 11.06 ± 5.46 years) and 23 healthy controls (mean age 8.48 ± 3.78 years) were enrolled in the study. Fasting blood was drawn to determine baseline free and total carnitine levels, red blood cell folate concentration, and hemoglobin level. BTM were divided into three groups and received different types of supplementation for 3 months: Group 1, 50 mg/kg/day carnitine; Group 2, 50 mg/kg/day carnitine plus 1 mg/day folic acid; and Group 3, 1 mg/day folic acid. Controls did not receive supplementation. Laboratory parameters were again evaluated after 3 months' supplementation. A detailed quality of life questionnaire was designed to investigate muscle symptoms before and after supplementation. Free and total plasma carnitine concentration and hemoglobin levels in BTM subjects increased significantly after carnitine supplementation (P < .0001). Bone pain complaint and muscle weakness decreased with carnitine. Red blood cell folate level increased after folic acid supplementation. Carnitine and folic acid supplementation resulted in a decrease in bone pain complaint and muscle weakness in cases with β-thalassemia minor.


Thyroid involvement in patients with overt HCV-related mixed cryoglobulinaemia.
Mixed cryoglobulinaemia (MC), a systemic vasculitis associated with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in >90% of cases, is frequently complicated by multiple organ involvement. The prevalence of thyroid disorders in MC has not yet been studied. To investigate the prevalence and clinical features of thyroid involvement in patients with HCV-associated MC (HCV + MC). Case-control study. HCV + MC patients (n = 93, 17 men and 76 women, mean +/- SD age 63 +/- 10 years, mean disease duration 14 +/- 7 years) consecutively referred to the Rheumatology Unit were matched by sex and age (+/- 2 years) to (i) 93 patients with chronic C hepatitis (CH) without MC and (ii) 93 healthy (HCV-negative) controls from the local population. Measurements included prevalence of hypo- or hyperthyroidism, thyroid autoantibodies, thyroid nodules and thyroid cancer. By McNemar's chi(2) test, the following thyroid abnormalities were significantly more frequent in HCV + MC patients than in HCV-negative controls: serum anti-thyroperoxidase autoantibody (AbTPO) (28% vs. 9%, p = 0.001); serum AbTPO and/or anti-thyroglobulin autoantibody (31% vs. 12%, p = 0.004); subclinical hypothyroidism (11% vs. 2%, p = 0.038); thyroid autoimmunity (35% vs. 16%, p = 0.006). Serum AbTPO were also significantly more frequent in HCV + MC patients than in CH controls (28% vs. 14%, p = 0.035). The prevalence of thyroid disorders is increased in patients with HCV-related mixed cryoglobulinaemia. We suggest careful monitoring of thyroid function in these patients.


Evaluation of the hybrid-dynamic conformal arc therapy technique for radiotherapy of lung cancer.
A hybrid-dynamic conformal arc therapy (HDCAT) technique consisting of a single half-rotated dynamic conformal arc beam and static field-in-field beams in two directions was designed and evaluated in terms of dosimetric benefits for radiotherapy of lung cancer. This planning study was performed in 20 lung cancer cases treated with the VERO system (BrainLAB AG, Feldkirchen, Germany). Dosimetric parameters of HDCAT plans were compared with those of three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT) plans in terms of target volume coverage, dose conformity, and sparing of organs at risk. HDCAT showed better dose conformity compared with 3D-CRT (conformity index: 0.74 ± 0.06 vs. 0.62 ± 0.06, p < 0.001). HDCAT significantly reduced the lung volume receiving more than 20 Gy (V20: 21.4% ± 8.2% vs. 24.5% ± 8.8%, p < 0.001; V30: 14.2% ± 6.1% vs. 15.1% ± 6.4%, p = 0.02; V40: 8.8% ± 3.9% vs. 10.3% ± 4.5%, p < 0.001; and V50: 5.7% ± 2.7% vs. 7.1% ± 3.2%, p < 0.001), V40 and V50 of the heart (V40: 5.2 ± 3.9 Gy vs. 7.6 ± 5.5 Gy, p < 0.001; V50: 1.8 ± 1.6 Gy vs. 3.1 ± 2.8 Gy, p = 0.001), and the maximum spinal cord dose (34.8 ± 9.4 Gy vs. 42.5 ± 7.8 Gy, p < 0.001) compared with 3D-CRT. HDCAT could achieve highly conformal target coverage and reduce the doses to critical organs such as the lung, heart, and spinal cord compared to 3D-CRT for the treatment of lung cancer patients.


Multiple effects of bracken fern under in vivo and in vitro conditions.
Several toxic substances have been detected in plants which are responsible for animal and human diseases. Bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) is one example, widely distributed in many parts of the world. It is known to cause cancer in humans and other animals. In fact, man can be directly or indirectly exposed to the danger by consuming fern, contaminated water, milk, meat, and spore inhalation. Experimental studies have shown an association between bracken exposure and gastric cancer, and research has shown genotoxic and cytotoxic effects in vitro. This paper describes and reviews toxic, carcinogenic, genotoxic/cytotoxic, and immunomodulatory effects of bracken and included possible toxic agents. The chemistry of Ptaquiloside (PT) reactions is emphasized, along with bracken problems in livestock, possible pathways of exposure in man, and control for human health.


Highly Conductive Ionic-Liquid Gels Prepared with Orthogonal Double Networks of a Low-Molecular-Weight Gelator and Cross-Linked Polymer.
We prepared a heterogeneous double-network (DN) ionogel containing a low-molecular-weight gelator network and a polymer network that can exhibit high ionic conductivity and high mechanical strength. An imidazolium-based ionic liquid was first gelated by the molecular self-assembly of a low-molecular-weight gelator (benzenetricarboxamide derivative), and methyl methacrylate was polymerized with a cross-linker to form a cross-linked poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) network within the ionogel. Microscopic observation and calorimetric measurement revealed that the fibrous network of the low-molecular-weight gelator was maintained in the DN ionogel. The PMMA network strengthened the ionogel of the low-molecular-weight gelator and allowed us to handle the ionogel using tweezers. The orthogonal DNs produced ionogels with a broad range of storage elastic moduli. DN ionogels with low PMMA concentrations exhibited high ionic conductivity that was comparable to that of a neat ionic liquid. The present study demonstrates that the ionic conductivities of the DN and single-network, low-molecular-weight gelator or polymer ionogels strongly depended on their storage elastic moduli.


Dual Function of NAC072 in ABF3-Mediated ABA-Responsive Gene Regulation in Arabidopsis.
The NAM, ATAF1/2, and CUC2 (NAC) domain proteins play various roles in plant growth and stress responses. Arabidopsis NAC transcription factor NAC072 has been reported as a transcriptional activator in Abscisic acid (ABA)-responsive gene expression. However, the exact function of NAC072 in ABA signaling is still elusive. In this study, we present evidence for the interrelation between NAC072 and ABA-responsive element binding factor 3 (ABF3) that act as a positive regulator of ABA-responsive gene expression in Arabidopsis. The transcript of NAC072 is up-regulated by ABF3 in ABA response, and NAC072 protein interacts with ABF3. Enhanced ABA sensitivity occurs in nac072 mutant plants that overexpressed ABF3. However, overexpression of NAC072 weakened the ABA sensitivity in the abf3 mutant plants, but instead of recovering the ABA sensitivity of abf3. NAC072 and ABF3 cooperate to regulate RD29A expression, but are antagonistic when regulating RD29B expression. Therefore, NAC072 displays a dual function in ABF3-mediated ABA-responsive gene regulation.


Fine needle biopsy of pediatric-type follicular lymphoma-Cytology, flow cytometry and FISH pattern: A case report.
Pediatric-type follicular lymphomas are rare lymphomas, affecting mostly children and young adults. These are characterized by an excellent prognosis, despite their conservative therapeutic approach. Recognized as an entity in the most recent 2016 WHO classification of tumors of hematopoietic and lymphoid tissues, its diagnosis is based on the recognition of an exclusively nodular architecture, thus conditioning the possibility of a cytological diagnosis. It is thus not odd, the scant literature found on the cytological approach to these lesions. Herein we describe a case of a pediatric-type follicular lymphoma, first approached through fine needle biopsy. The case is thoroughly discussed from a cytologic, immunophenotypic, and molecular point of view. Differential diagnoses are discussed. The final diagnosis was performed on histology.


Quantitative estimation of elastase-alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor (E-alpha 1 PI) complex in leukemia: marked elevation in cases of acute promyelocytic leukemia.
The concentrations of elastase-alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor (E-alpha 1 PI) complex were assayed in 43 patients with various types of leukemia. Marked to moderate elevation of E-alpha 1 PI complex levels was observed in patients with acute myelocytic leukemia (AML), acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), acute myelomonocytic leukemia (AMMoL), or chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML) at diagnosis. The ratio of E-alpha 1 PI complex concentrations in plasma to leukocyte counts markedly elevated in the patients with APL, especially. During the course of remission induction therapy, levels of E-alpha 1 PI complex decreased in parallel with decline of leukocyte counts in the patients with leukemia other than APL, however the E-alpha 1 PI complex was persistently elevated regardless of leukopenia in some patients with APL. In APL, concentrations of fibrin/fibrinogen degradation products (FDP) markedly increased even when levels of plasmin-alpha 2-antiplasmin complex were within normal limits. However, levels of E-alpha 1 PI complex usually increased in these cases. From these results, it is strongly suggested that promyelocytes contain markedly elevated amounts of elastase which participates in degradation of fibrin or fibrinogen in some cases of APL.


Survey for Toxoplasma gondii by PCR detection in meat for human consumption in Colombia.
The overall risk for toxoplasmosis in meat produced in Colombia is unknown. We analyzed by PCR assay meat samples for human consumption in two types of plants in Colombia: 120 samples from class I plants (60 samples from chicken, 30 from swine and 30 from beef) and 60 from class II plants (30 samples from beef and 30 from swine). Presence of Toxoplasma DNA was established by targeted B1 nested PCR assay. We detected 79 (43%) samples that were positive by B1 nested PCR (33 from chicken, 22 from beef, and 24 from pork). No differences were found by region or species. Eleven positive samples were confirmed by sequencing of the B1 repeated region. Some polymorphisms were detected without relation with clonal groups nor meat species. Food animals are highly exposed to Toxoplasma in Colombia. Detailed studies are needed to establish the reasons for differences in Toxoplasma prevalence between farms, regarding practices of animal food production.