Norplant expansion in Kenya.
Norplant is a long-acting contraceptive that has been introduced into family planning programs all over the world. Its efficacy, safety and acceptability in the introductory phases have been widely tested, and most studies point to the need for good provider training in insertion and removal; good client counseling on side effects, suitable client selection to limit early removal, and attention to client access to removal services. Some problems with the method in the developed world, and a belief that it is too costly for developing countries, have led to a waning of support by international donors. Few studies have examined how service delivery expansion in the developing world can minimise and address potential problems as well as maintain Norplant's cost-effective edge against other methods. We examine the expansion of Norplant services in Kenya between 1992 and 1996, specifically in relation to client access to services, removal issues, and cost. Well-supervised and careful expansion has resulted in quality services being provided at more than 70 sites in the country. Early removal is limited, removals seem to have posed few problems, and Norplant offers a welcome and cost-effective addition to the family planning method mix.


Pilot evaluation of the psychometric properties of a self-medication Risk Assessment Tool among elderly patients in a community setting.
Although community pharmacists in the United Kingdom are expected to assess elderly patients' needs for additional support in managing their medicines, there is limited data on potentially useful assessment tools. We sought to evaluate a 13-item assessment instrument among community dwelling elderly patients, 65 years and above. The instrument is composed of a cognitive risk sub-scale of 6 items and a physical risk sub-scale of 7 items. The instrument was administered to elderly patients in a survey performed in a community to the west of Glasgow, Scotland. The survey recruited 37 participants, 31 from 4 community pharmacies and 6 patients whose medication management tasks were managed by the West Glasgow Community Health and Care Partnership (managed patients). Community pharmacists independently rated 29 of the 37 participants' comprehension of, and dexterity in handling their medicines. We assessed scale reliability, convergent validity and criterion validity. In sub-analyses, we assessed differences in scores between the managed patients and those recruited from the community pharmacies, and between multi-compartment compliance aid users and non-users. The instrument showed satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha of 0.792 for 13-item scale). There was significant strong negative correlation between the cognitive risk sub-scores and community pharmacists' assessment of comprehension (ρ = -0.546, p = 0.0038); and physical risk sub-scores and community pharmacists' assessment of dexterity (ρ = -0.491, p = 0.0093). The Area Under the Receiver Operator Characteristic Curve (AUC ± SE; 95%CI) showed that the instrument had good discriminatory capacity (0.86 ± 0.07; 0.68, 0.96). The best cut-off (sensitivity, specificity) was ≥4 (65%, 100%). In the sub-analyses, managed patients had significantly higher cognitive risk sub-scores (6.5 versus 4.0, p = 0.0461) compared to non-managed patients. There was a significant difference in total risk score (4 versus 2, p = 0.0135) and cognitive risk sub-score (4 versus 1.5, p = 0.0029) between users and non-users of multi-compartment compliance aids. This instrument shows potential for use in identifying elderly patients who may have problems managing their own medicines in the community setting. However, more robust validity and reliability assessments are needed prior to introduction of the tool into routine practice.


Caries experience of Egyptian adolescents: does the atraumatic restorative treatment approach offer a solution?
To assess the prevalence and severity of dental caries amongst Egyptian adolescents and the prevalence of carious lesions treatable through the atraumatic restorative treatment (ART) approach. Using a convenient sample procedure, two secondary schools with a dental clinic were selected (967 students, average age: 13.7 ± 0.8 years, range: 12-15). Dental caries was diagnosed using the ART caries criteria, and plaque and calculus were assessed using the Green and Vermillion criteria amongst students grades 1-3 in the dental clinic by 3 calibrated examiners. The effect of the independent variables gender, age, tooth surface, jaw side (left or right) and type of jaw (mandible/maxilla) on dependent caries experience variables and D(2) and D(3) variables were tested using ANOVA. The prevalence of dental caries including enamel lesion (D(2)MFT) amongst the 967 students was 51.4% and that of dental caries excluding enamel lesions (D(3)MFT) was 38.1%. The mean D(2)MFT and D(3)MFT scores were 1.5 and 0.8, respectively. The percentage of teeth filled and extracted was low. Female students had statistically significantly higher mean D(3)MFT/S and D(2)MFT/S scores than males (p < 0.0001). The prevalence of cavitated carious lesions (D(3)) treatable through ART was 48% for score 2 and 28% for score 3. Most of the cavitated lesions were found untreated despite the presence of a dental clinic and a dentist on the school premises. The majority of cavitated lesions without pulp involvement could be treated using the preventive and restorative components of the ART approach.


[Caustic rectal stenosis. Trans-anal resection using an EEA stapler].
An original treatment of caustic rectal stenosis due to abuse of analgesic suppositories is presented. The stenosis had been excluded by distal colostomy during 2 years before reconstruction of the circuit was attempted. Anatomically, the stenosis appeared as a complete diaphragm which could be recanalized by an EEA stapler for circular anastomosis, installed in two sites: endoluminal from the colostomy and perineal. After a 2-year follow-up, the anatomical and functional results are satisfactory.


Emergence of Toscana virus in the mediterranean area.
Toscana virus (TOSV) is an arthropod-borne virus, identified in 1971, from Phlebotomus perniciosus and Phlebotomus perfiliewi in central Italy. TOSV belongs to the Phlebovirus genus within the Bunyaviridae family. As other bunyaviruses, the genome of TOSV consists of 3 segments (S for small, M for Medium, and L for Large) respectively encoding non structural and capsid proteins, envelope structural proteins, and the viral RNA-dependant RNA-polymerase. It is transmitted by sand flies. Therefore its distribution is dictated by that of the arthropod vectors, and virus circulation peaks during summertime when sandfly populations are active. Here, we reviewed the epidemiology of TOSV in the old world. First evidence of its pathogenicity for humans, specifically its propensity to cause central nervous system (CNS) infections such as meningitis and encephalitis, was reported in central Italy. After 2000, it was recognized that TOSV had a much larger geographic distribution than initially believed, and was present in most of the Western European countries located on the northern border of the Mediterranean Sea (Portugal, Spain, France, Greece, Croatia) as well as eastern countries such as Cyprus and Turkey. In the countries where TOSV is present, it is among the three most prevalent viruses in meningitis during the warm seasons, together with enteroviruses and herpesviruses. Up to now, epidemiological data concerning Northern Africa and other countries located south of the Mediterranean are scarce. TOSV must be considered an emerging pathogen. Despite the important role played by TOSV in CNS infections, it remains a neglected agent and is rarely considered by physicians in diagnostic algorithms of CNS infections and febrile illness during the warm season, probably because of the lack of information.


Dendritic cells in Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Like other premalignant conditions that develop in the presence of chronic inflammation, the development and progression of Barrett's esophagus is associated with the development of an immune response, but how this immune response is regulated is poorly understood. A comprehensive literature search failed to find any report of the presence of dendritic cells in Barrett's intestinal metaplasia and esophageal adenocarcinoma and this prompted our study. We used immunohistochemical staining and electron microscopy to examine whether dendritic cells are present in Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemical staining with CD83, a specific marker for dendritic cells, was performed on paraffin-embedded sections of Barrett's intestinal metaplasia (IM, n = 12), dysplasia (n = 11) and adenocarcinoma (n = 14). CD83+ cells were identified in the lamina propria surrounding intestinal type glands in Barrett's IM, dysplasia, and cancer tissues. Computerized quantitative analysis showed that the numbers of dendritic cells were significantly higher in cancer tissues. Double immunostaining with CD83, CD20, and CD3, and electron microscopy demonstrated that dendritic cells are present in Barrett's esophagus and form clusters with T cells and B cells directly within the lamina propria. These findings demonstrate that dendritic cells are present in Barrett's tissues, with a significant increase in density in adenocarcinoma compared to benign Barrett's esophagus. Dendritic cells may have a role in the pathogenesis and immunotherapy treatment of Barrett's esophagus and adenocarcinoma.


[Analysis of the effect of linear stapler closure pharyngeal after total laryngectomy].
Objective:To compare the effect of closure of pharyngeal cavity with linear stapler and manual suture in total laryngectomy. Method:A retrospective study was conducted on 32 patients who underwent total laryngectomy with linear stapler to close the pharyngeal from December 2014 to March 2019. Among them, 25 patients used closed technique and 7 patients used open technique. At the same time, 23 patients who underwent total laryngectomy with manual suture the pharyngeal by the same operator from January 2010 to December 2014 were collected. The clinical parameters of the two groups were compared and analyzed. Result:Compared with the control group, the closed technical group had no significant difference in terms of gender, diabetes mellitus, second surgery, T stage, and surgical method(P> 0.05). While the age (63.60 ± 9.46) years and (54.35 ± 11.13) years , operation time (239.67 ± 88.43) min and (474.35 ± 140.16) min , oral feeding time (12.84 ± 3.65) min and (17.3 ± 9.71)min , hospitalization days after operation ( 15.48 ± 3.78) d and (20.22 ± 10.14) d, incidence of Pharygocutaneous fistula 4.0% (1/25) and 26.1% (6/23), had significant statistical differences (P <0.05) Between two groups; Compared with the control group, the opener group had no statistically significant difference in gender, T stage, oral feeding time, hospitalization days after operation,surgical method and incidence of Pharygocutaneous fistula (P> 0.05),while there was a statistically significant difference in diabetes mellitus, second surgery, and operation time (P<0.05). Conclusion:The linear stapler closed closure technique can reduce the incidence of Pharygocutaneous fistula, shorten the operation time and oral feeding time, and reduce the length of hospital stay.


[Oculomotor muscles involvement revealing dermatomyositis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis].
Oculomotor muscles (OMM) involvement in dermatomyositis (DM) and in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is unusual. The DM always leads to OMM inflammation, whereas the RA particularly leads to tenosynovitis of the superior oblique muscle referred to as the Brown syndrome. The patient is a 43-year-old woman who gives a 17-year-history of severe seropositive RA with bilateral coxite. She was hospitalized for acute painful proptosis. The clinical examination revealed an orbital erythema and a muscular rhizomelic weakness. The muscular enzymes were increased. The orbital CT revealed in the right side, an enlargement of the superior rectus muscle that was enhanced after intravenous injection, which is compatible with myositis involvement. The muscular biopsy practiced at the level of the calf showed the specific histological signs of the DM. This orbital involvement was resolved with a high dose of corticosteroids. Our observation has the specificity of associating RA with DM with an involvement of the superior rectus muscle, which is due to the DM rather than the RA.


Phyllodes tumor metastatic to thyroid Hürthle cell adenoma.
We present a case of a malignant phyllodes tumor metastasizing to a Hürthle cell adenoma of the thyroid. A 55-year-old woman underwent mastectomy for a malignant phyllodes tumor. Two years later, she presented with a left thyroid mass, which was a single, circumscribed, soft, deep red-brown nodular lesion with an eccentric area of firmer consistency. Histologically, the thyroid tumor was composed of 2 distinct types of cellular proliferation. Atypical spindle cells were infiltrating between the Hürthle cell cords and follicles in a fibrosarcomatous pattern. A battery of immunohistochemical stains was applied to both the thyroid and breast tumors for comparison. Based on the histologic and immunophenotypic features of the fibrosarcomatous components of both the breast and thyroid tumors, we rendered a diagnosis of cystosarcoma phyllodes metastatic to Hürthle cell adenoma. To the best of our knowledge, this unusual case is a first report of tumor-to-tumor metastasis of a sarcoma to a primary thyroid neoplasm.


Transport and Partitioning of CO(2) Fixed by Root Nodules of Ureide and Amide Producing Legumes.
Nodulated and denodulated roots of adzuki bean (Vigna angularis), soybean (Glycine max), and alfalfa (Medicago sativa) were exposed to (14)CO(2) to investigate the contribution of nodule CO(2) fixation to assimilation and transport of fixed nitrogen. The distribution of radioactivity in xylem sap and partitioning of carbon fixed by nodules to the whole plant were measured. Radioactivity in the xylem sap of nodulated soybean and adzuki bean was located primarily (70 to 87%) in the acid fraction while the basic (amino acid) fraction contained 10 to 22%. In contrast, radioactivity in the xylem sap of nodulated alfalfa was primarily in amino acids with about 20% in organic acids. Total ureide concentration was 8.1, 4.7, and 0.0 micromoles per milliliter xylem sap for soybean, adzuki bean, and alfalfa, respectively. While the major nitrogen transport products in soybeans and adzuki beans are ureides, this class of metabolites contained less than 20% of the total radioactivity. When nodules of plants were removed, radioactivity in xylem sap decreased by 90% or more. Pulse-chase experiments indicated that CO(2) fixed by nodules was rapidly transported to shoots and incorporated into acid stable constituents. The data are consistent with a role for nodule CO(2) fixation providing carbon for the assimilation and transport of fixed nitrogen in amide-based legumes. In contrast, CO(2) fixation by nodules of ureide transporting legumes appears to contribute little to assimilation and transport of fixed nitrogen.


Effects of atrial, ventricular, and atrioventricular sequential pacing on coronary flow reserve.
Experimental animal data have indicated that altered left ventricular depolarization sequence as a result of right ventricular pacing may diminish coronary blood flow in the distribution of the left anterior descending coronary artery. To further investigate this, we compared the effects of atrial, ventricular, and atrioventricular (AV) sequential pacing on coronary flow reserve. Twenty-seven patients (24 male, mean age 55 +/- 7 years) with normal left anterior descending coronary arteries were studied. Coronary flow reserve was calculated as the ratio of mean flow velocity at maximal coronary vasodilatation to mean flow velocity at baseline. The study consisted of two parts. In the first part, AV sequential pacing was compared to atrial pacing at the same rate; coronary flow reserve did not differ significantly between the two pacing modes (14 patients, 4.85 +/- 1.88 vs 5.47 +/- 1.55, respectively, P > 0.05). In the second part, all three pacing modalities were compared; coronary flow reserve was significantly higher during ventricular compared to AV sequential pacing, but not significantly different compared to atrial pacing (3.69 +/- 1.42 vs 2.90 +/- 0.86 vs 3.11 +/- 0.89, respectively, P < 0.05). This difference was secondary to a significant decrease in mean baseline velocity during ventricular pacing, while mean velocity during hyperemia was comparable between the three pacing modes. It is concluded that AV sequential pacing does not appear to exert a significant effect on coronary flow reserve. Ventricular pacing, however, may lower resting coronary blood velocity in some patients, without affecting maximal coronary blood velocity, resulting in a higher coronary flow reserve.


The impact of lymph node metastases on the results of treatment by primary radiotherapy and secondary surgery in oropharyngeal cancer.
The prognostic significance of lymph node metastases was evaluated in an unselected material of 427 oropharyngeal cancer patients treated primarily with radiotherapy. At first referral, palpable lymph node metastases were present in 60% of the patients. After irradiation, 60% of all palpable nodes had disappeared. As many as 50% of the nodes initially palpable in N3 patients vanished after irradiation. Recurrences were significantly increased in patients primarily with lymph node metastases (N1-3) compared with N0 patients; recurrences in the primary tumour site were (56% vs. 43%) in neck lymph nodes (40% vs. 9%) and in distant metastases (14% vs. 5%). Surgery was performed in 98 of 256 patients (38%) with recurrent or metastatic disease. The 5-year disease-free survival rate after radiotherapy for N0 patients was an improvement (44%) on that of N1-3 patients (23%). The N-stage is an important prognostic factor for oropharyngeal cancer patients.


Precompensation of the thermal-induced refractive index changes into a fully aperiodic LPF for heat load resilience.
In this paper, a strategy consisting of precompensating the thermal-induced transverse refractive index changes is undertaken to push further the appearance threshold of a multimode regime. First, a standard air-silica large pitch fiber (LPF) and a fully aperiodic large pitch fiber are confronted in regard to their heat load resilience and capabilities for single-mode emission. Thereafter, slight refractive index depressions are judiciously introduced into the active core area. This approach enhances the delocalization of the high-order modes even under severe heat load levels. This combination of aperiodic cladding microstructuration and index-precompensation theoretically increases the multimode regime threshold while preserving large mode field areas. This investigation is performed at 1.03 and 2 μm operating wavelengths.


A novel gene, Le-Dd10, is involved in fruiting body formation of Lentinula edodes.
The cDNA library prepared from Lentinula edodes, Hokken 600 (H600), primordia was screened using cDNA expressed specifically in Dictyostelium discoideum prestalk as a probe. Twenty-one clones, Le-Dd1 ~ 21, were isolated from the L. edodes primordia cDNA library. Functional analysis of each gene was carried out by transformation into protoplast cells from L. edodes Mori 252 (M252) mycelia with the overexpression vector pLG-RasF1 of each gene because M252 protoplast cells were transformed with an 11-fold higher efficiency than H600 cells. Transformants with the overexpression vector of Le-Dd10 formed a fruiting body at almost the same time as H600, a positive control, although M252, a negative control, did not form a fruiting body under culture conditions. This suggested that Le-Dd10 is involved in the formation of fruiting bodies. Single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis revealed that Le-Dd10 is located on No. 4 linkage group of L. edodes. The properties of Le-Dd10 products were investigated by Western blotting analysis using polyclonal antibodies against GST:Le-Dd10 fusion proteins. As a result, 56-kDa, 27-kDa, and 14-kDa protein bands appeared in primordial and fruiting body stages, although the expected molecular weight of the Le-Dd10 product was 50 kDa.


[Mutations of mitochondrial tRNASer(UCN) and their connection with hearing loss].
Mitochondrial tRNASer(UCN) gene mutation is closely related to acoustic nerve deafness. Some mutations can affect the structure and transcriptional processing of tRNASer(UCN), for instance m.7444G>A mutation in tRNASer(UCN) precursor 3' side, m.7472 insC as well as m.7511T>C mutations in the stem and ring of tRNASer(UCN), may influence tRNASer(UCN) stability, thus affect the synthesis of mitochondrial peptides, reduce the production of ATP and cause deafness. This article focuses on mitochondrial tRNASer(UCN) gene mutations as well as the mechanism underlying hearing loss.


A simile is (like) a metaphor: Comparing metaphor and simile processing across the familiarity spectrum.
One of Katz's significant contributions to the study of figurative language is his work highlighting the importance of familiarity in metaphor processing. In this study, we examined how metaphor and simile comprehension change as a function of familiarity. The Categorization model (Glucksberg, Trends in Cognitive Sciences, 2003, 7, 92) proposes that metaphor comprehension relies on an automatic process (categorization) regardless of familiarity. By contrast, the Career of Metaphor model (Bowdle & Gentner, Psychological Review, 2005, 112, 193) proposes that as conventionality or familiarity declines, comprehension shifts from categorization to comparison, a controlled, effortful process. Both models assume that similes, regardless of familiarity, are understood through controlled, comparison processes. The present study used a resource depletion manipulation to investigate the processes recruited in metaphor and simile comprehension. Because resource depletion negatively impacts controlled, effortful processes but does not affect automatic processes (Schmeichel et al., Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2003, 85, 33), comparing the effects of resource depletion on comprehension of familiar and unfamiliar metaphors and similes may shed light on the comprehension processes (controlled or automatic) being used. Across two experiments, we induced resource depletion using a Stroop task and tested the impact of depletion on metaphor and simile comprehension. Metaphor stimuli were drawn from Katz et al. (Metaphor and Symbolic Activity, 1988, 3, 191) normed database; similes were constructed by adding the word like to each metaphor (e.g., love is (like) a flower). For both tropes, resource depletion slowed comprehension of unfamiliar expressions but had no little-or-no impact on highly familiar expressions. Our results suggest that comprehension of both similes and metaphors shifts from automatic to controlled processing as familiarity decreases. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).


Influence of pretreatment on the surface characteristics of PLLA fibers and subsequent hydroxyapatite coating.
A fibrous precursor for bone repair composites was made by coating poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) fibers with hydroxyapatite (HA) using a biomimetic method. To enhance the bonding between the HA coating and the PLLA fiber, PLLA fibers were etched with either sodium hydroxide or sodium hypochlorite to generate carboxyl groups on fiber surfaces. The experiments were designed to determine the influence of etching on the fiber surface morphology and chemistry as well as the subsequent HA coating on the etched fiber surfaces. It was found that the etching pretreatment increased the roughness as well as the hydrophilicity of fibers, indicating that hydrolysis of PLLA chains had taken place on fiber surfaces. The etching pretreatment also promoted HA coating formation by introducing thicker coating on the surface of fibers with a longer etching time, a higher etching concentration, or with NaOCl as the etching agent. A mechanism of surface hydrolysis and oxidation of PLLA was proposed.


[The effect of insufficient iodine intake on the size and function of the thyroid gland].
The supply of iodine indisputably affects the function of the thyroid gland. It is not clear, however, as to what extent a moderate iodopenia affects common thyroid parameters. OBJECTIVES, STARTING POINT AND MAIN PURPOSE: The aim of the study is to evaluate the influence of iodopenia (ioduria below 50 micrograms of iodine per litre of urine) on the values of T4, T3, TSH, the ankle-jerk time and sonographically ascertained thyroid gland volume in randomly selected sample of Czech population from 4 regions. Ioduria was assessed by means of Sandel-Kolthoff method, total thyroxine, triiodothyronine and thyreotropic hormone by immunoluminiscence method; the volume of the thyroid gland sonographically according to Gutekunst and the ankle-jerk reflex by electromagnetic record method. Iodopenia affects a majority of investigated parameters in dependence on age. T4 is significantly higher in iodopenic adults, T3 is significantly higher in iodopenic children, TSH is significantly higher in iodopenic adults and the ankle-jerk time is prolonged in iodopenic adults. The statistical significance of the effect of iodopenia on the volume of thyroid gland was not proved. Iodopenia of a mediate degree affects commonly used parameters of the thyroid gland function in dependence on age and other factors which are to be more precisely analyzed using a larger sample. The statistical significance of the effect of iodopenia on the volume of thyroid gland was not proved. (Tab. 1, Fig. 5, Ref. 13.).


Lean six sigma and stroke in rural hospital - The case of Baruch Padeh Medical Center.
This case study aims to demonstrate the strengths of the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) methodology to improve the acute ischemic stroke (AIS) treatment rates and reduce process lead time at Baruch Padeh Medical Center (BPMC), a rural hospital in the Galilee region of Northern Israel. The LSS project redefined the BPMC stroke care pathway and increased its efficacy. The LSS methodology was implemented in September 2017 by integrating lean principles and the Six Sigma DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control). Existing procedures, field observation, ad hoc measurement and in-depth interviews were utilized, and the GEMBA method was implemented to identify root cause and improve actions optimizing the stroke pathway. The presented case shows the usefulness of the LSS methodology in improving quality performance in a rural hospital. The intervention allowed the BPMC to improve the intravenous tissue plasminogen activator (IV-tPA) administration rate (+15.2%), reducing the process lead time. The lead time of door-to-computer tomography decreased from 52 to 26 min, and the door-to-needle time decreased from 94 to 75 min. The present case study shows the implementation of the LSS methodology aimed to improve the IV-tPA administration rate and reduce the stroke pathway lead time in a rural hospital. The case demonstrates the potential for the LSS methodology to support the AIS pathway optimization and represents a guide for healthcare organizations located in rural areas.


Using Entropy to Evaluate the Impact of Monetary Policy Shocks on Financial Networks.
We analyze the changes in the financial network built using the Dow Jones Industrial Average components following monetary policy shocks. Monetary policy shocks are measured through unexpected changes in the federal funds rate in the United States. We determine the changes in the financial networks using singular value decomposition entropy and von Neumann entropy. The results indicate that unexpected positive shocks in monetary policy shocks lead to lower entropy. The results are robust to varying the window size used to construct financial networks, though they also depend on the type of entropy used.


[Formation of concrements in the lacrimal excretory system].
Studying the pathogenesis of concrements formation in lacrimal ducts is of fundamental and practical importance. This article attempts to analyze available information related to the pathogenesis of this phenomenon, provides information on the etiopathogenesis, physical and chemical properties of concrements obtained from horizontal and vertical parts of the lacrimal duct, and considers in detail bacteriological and mycotic composition of concrements, as well as various theories of their formation. The analysis helped justify the need to separate the concrements formed in the horizontal and vertical parts of the lacrimal ducts on the basis of differences in their pathogenesis. Actinomycotic infection is the cause of concrements formation in the horizontal part of the lacrimal duct in the overwhelming majority of cases. The process of concrements formation in the vertical part of the lacrimal duct in some cases occurs as a result of previous clinical events, but in many other cases the trigger mechanisms remain unknown. To date, the role of the initial narrowing of the lacrimal ducts in the pathogenesis of concrements is not clearly defined. The accumulated knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of concrements is currently not enough to formulate a complete theory of the development of this phenomenon. Further studies of the pathogenesis of concrements will help develop new diagnostic and therapeutic measures aimed at restoring the patency of the lacrimal ducts.


General Belief in a Just World Is Positively Associated with Dishonest Behavior.
According to the just-world theory, people need to - or rather want to - believe that they live in a just world where they will receive what they earn and consequently earn what they receive. In the present work, we examined the influence of people's general and personal beliefs in a just world (BJW) on their (dis)honest behavior. Given that general BJW was found to be linked to antisocial tendencies, we expected stronger general BJW to be linked to more dishonesty. Given that personal BJW was found to be correlated with trust and justice striving, a negative link with dishonesty could be assumed. In one study (N = 501), we applied a common coin-toss paradigm to assess dishonesty. General BJW significantly predicted the probability of tossing the target outcome, that is, higher general BJW was linked to more dishonest behavior. This effect was found to be independent from personal BJW and self-reported importance of religion. Unexpectedly, there was no significant relationship between personal BJW and levels of dishonesty. These findings imply that although BJW normally serves an adaptive function, at least the facet general BJW has maladaptive side-effects.


[Resection of hemivertebrae. A review of seven cases (author's transl)].
The technique used by the authors for removal of hemivertebrae is fully described. Two approaches are made, one posterior and one lateral at the same surgical session. This allows satisfactory control of roots, medulla and radicular vessels. The indications are described with reference to the age of the patient, the level of the lesion and the type of anomaly. It is concluded that it is a valuable procedure in progressive severe congenital scoliosis. 7 cases are reported without any neurological complication.


The Estonian version of the National Institutes of Health chronic prostatitis symptom index.
Our aim was to establish the Estonian version of the National Institutes of Health chronic prostatitis symptom index (NIH-CPSI), and to examine its validity and applicability in chronic prostatitis patients as well as in community-based study. The questionnaire was tested in 54 category III prostatitis patients. In addition, 452 men were enrolled into a community-based study that resulted in 83 completed questionnaires. The discriminatory power, psychometric properties and internal correlations of the questionnaire were tested. The questionnaire demonstrated good internal consistency, with Cronbach's alpha coefficient 0.82. The pain and quality of life domains demonstrated high correlations with each other and with the entire questionnaire. The total score and the scores of pain and quality of life domains of the Estonian NIH-CPSI differed significantly between the chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) patients and the men without CP/CPPS, and so the index proved a good discriminant validity. We can conclude that the Estonian NIH-CPSI is easily understood and reflects accurately the clinical symptoms and the quality of life in patients with chronic prostatitis. The similarity of the psychometric properties of the English and Estonian versions of the NIH-CPSI supports their measurement equivalence.


Cryptic diversity within the narrowly endemic Lerista wilkinsi group of north Queensland-two new species (Reptilia: Scincidae).
Herein we describe two new species of the skink genus Lerista from north-eastern Queensland, based on morphological and genetic data. Additionally, we redescribe L. cinerea as this species is morphologically more variable than previously suggested. We allocate these three species to the L. wilkinsi group (Greer et al. 1983) which is here identified as an endemic Queensland radiation, comprising L. ameles, L. cinerea, L. hobsoni sp. nov., L. storri, L. vanderduysi sp. nov., L. vittata and L. wilkinsi. A number of these species have strong associations with semi-evergreen vine thickets, listed as an endangered habitat under the Australian Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act (1999).


New Urbanization and Rural Tourism Development under the Rural Revitalization Strategy Environment.
China can effectively promote urban-rural integration and economic and social modernization through new urbanization, which also serves as a strong driver and supporter of the growth of rural tourism. This paper examines the new urbanization and the growth of the rural tourism industry based on the rural revitalization strategy. It does so by using the techniques of literature research, field investigation, information technology retrieval, and excavation. We list the accomplishments of the rural tourism sector at its current stage of development and identify the issues and factors that will affect the sector's future growth. In addition, a coordinated development evaluation index system is built based on a theoretical analysis of rural revitalization strategies and new urbanization, and the corresponding comprehensive score is obtained using the entropy method for research. The index weight of the subsystem for rural revitalization in province A is computed using the entropy weight method. According to the findings, the wealth of life has the smallest weight (0.1117), followed by the prosperity of industry (0.2618), which is the largest on a criterion level. The effective weight of governance is the largest, at 0.2801. This study can serve as a useful resource for fostering rural tourism and advancing rural business.


(1S*,2S*,4R*,5R*)-Cyclo-hexane-1,2,4,5-tetra-carb-oxy-lic acid.
The title compound, C10H12O8, a prospective raw material for colourless polyimides which are applied to electronic and microelectronic devices, lies about an inversion centre and the cyclo-hexane ring adopts a chair conformation. Two crystallographycally independent carb-oxy-lic acid groups on adjacent C atoms are in equatorial positions, resulting in a mutually trans conformation. In the crystal, O-H⋯O hydrogen bonds around an inversion centre and a threefold rotoinversion axis, respectively, form an inversion dimer with an R 2 (2)(8) motif and a trimer with an R 3 (3)(12) motif.


Modification of a zinc proteinase from Bacillus mesentericus strain 76 by diethylpyrocarbonate.
Diethylpyrocarbonate (DEPC) inactivated the neutral zinc proteinase from Bacillus mesentericus strain 76/Bacillus subtilis (MCP 76) by ethoxycarbonylation completely. Exposure of the enzyme to DEPC together with the competitive inhibitor Z-L-phenylalanine prevented the loss of activity toward both peptide and protein substrates. Treatment with hydroxylamine restored the catalytic properties of the modified MCP 76 to that of the native enzyme. After chymotryptic digestion of ethoxycarbonylated MCP 76 in the presence and absence of Z-L-phenylalanine a single histidyl residue essential for the enzyme activity was isolated and identified as histidine 231.


Oxymatrine Protects TGFβ1-Induced Retinal Fibrosis in an Animal Model of Glaucoma.
Glaucoma has engulfed a huge population of the world into its claws of blindness as it remains asymptomatic until nearly 40% of the neurons are lost and the only option left is for patients to be subjected to symptomatic treatments or surgical methods, neither of which is completely effective in curing the disease as they do not restore the physiological dimensions at the neuronal level. Among the several factors that drive the pathophysiology of glaucoma, one is the involvement of fibrogenic factors, such as transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) which remodels the extracellular matrix (ECM) and, thus, the deposition of fibrotic material in the retina, resulting in the progression of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The primary objectives of this study were to evaluate the protective effects of oxymatrine (OMT) in the steroid-induced glaucoma model in experimental rats and to determine the role of transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) in the pathogenesis of glaucoma and its consequent inhibition due to the antioxidant and the antiinflammatory, and also the TGFβ1 antagonistic, behavior of OMT. To that end, we experimentally elucidated the role of OMT, a TGFβ1 antagonist, that is known to play antiinflammatory and antioxidant roles in the steroid-induced glaucoma model in experimental rats, and using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), we observed a direct inhibitory effect of OMT on the pathogenesis of glaucoma. The antioxidant and the antiinflammatory potentials of OMT were determined using several biochemical methods to determine the major antioxidants in the retinal layers, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH), along with the nitrite and the malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration levels. As a result, OMT was found to reduce the total protein content in the retinal layers, a correlation that has not been previously reported. Moreover, the impacts of OMT on the major governing ATPases, namely Na+/K+ ATPase and Ca2+ATPase, along with its impacts on the intracellular ionic concentrations of Na+, K+, and Ca2+, were determined and were found to point toward OMT, restoring homeostasis in glaucomatous animals. A clearer picture of the changes during the treatment was obtained using retinal images of the live animals and of the lenticular changes in the sacrificed animal; these images provided data on the pathological pathways leading to glaucoma inception and its consequent inhibition by OMT. The data reported in this study clearly indicate that OMT has a possible role in inhibiting the pathogenesis of glaucoma, and the data also permit the quantification of several biochemical parameters of concern.


Healthful aging mediated by inhibition of oxidative stress.
The progressive increase in lifespan over the past century carries with it some adversity related to the accompanying burden of debilitating diseases prevalent in the older population. This review focuses on oxidative stress as a major mechanism limiting longevity in general, and healthful aging, in particular. Accordingly, the first goal of this review is to discuss the role of oxidative stress in limiting longevity, and compare healthful aging and its mechanisms in different longevity models. Secondly, we discuss common signaling pathways involved in protection against oxidative stress in aging and in the associated diseases of aging, e.g., neurological, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, and cancer. Much of the literature has focused on murine models of longevity, which will be discussed first, followed by a comparison with human models of longevity and their relationship to oxidative stress protection. Finally, we discuss the extent to which the different longevity models exhibit the healthful aging features through physiological protective mechanisms related to exercise tolerance and increased β-adrenergic signaling and also protection against diabetes and other metabolic diseases, obesity, cancer, neurological diseases, aging-induced cardiomyopathy, cardiac stress and osteoporosis.


Day 2 versus day 3 embryo transfer in poor responders: a prospective randomized trial.
Day 2 embryo transfer has been suggested as a method to improve pregnancy rates in poor responders compared with day 3 transfer. Our prospective randomized controlled trial does not show a difference in outcomes based on day of embryo transfer.


The impact of osteoporosis continuing education on nurses' knowledge and attitudes.
Osteoporosis has rapidly evolved into a severe health threat to Americans and a major public health problem. The increasing incidence of this disease and related fractures mandates that continuing education include osteoporosis content to ensure nurses provide competent education and care. An osteoporosis educational program was presented to nurses as part of a continuing education symposium on women's health issues. The program was tested to determine its effectiveness in augmenting the osteoporosis-related knowledge and attitudes of nurses. Eighty-one RNs with educational levels varying from associate degrees to doctorates attended the continuing education program. Sixty-three of the program participants completed pretest and posttest measures. The educational program significantly increased osteoporosis knowledge in this cohort of nurses. Additionally, nurses indicated they were more likely to pay attention to their own bone health as a result of attending the program. Results of this study reinforce the need for osteoporosis-related continuing education.


Intravenous single and repeated dose toxicity studies of cimadronate (YM175), a novel bisphosphonate, in rats.
Cimadronate (YM175) is a novel bisphosphonate with potent inhibitory activity on bone resorption under development for the treatment of tumor-induced hypercalcemia, metastatic bone disease and osteoporosis. We conducted toxicity studies of cimadronate intravenously, single dose, 30-day repeated dose and 26-week weekly dose in F344 rats. In the single dose study, cimadronate was administered to rats and the animals were observed for 14 days. Major toxic symptoms were decreased motility and piloerection and LD50 values were 23 mg/kg for males and 21 mg/kg for females. In the 30-day study, the animals received cimadronate at doses of 0, 0.16, 0.31, 0.62 or 1.25 mg/kg/day. At 0.16 mg/kg/day or more, an increased amount of primary spongiosa was observed in the femur. At 0.62 mg/kg/day or more, renal and testicular/epididymal toxicity were observed. After a 30-day recovery period, the finding in the kidney disappeared, but the findings remained in the bone, testis and epididymis. In the 26-week weekly dose study, animals received cimadronate at doses of 0, 0.31, 0.62 and 1.25 mg/kg/week. At 0.31 mg/kg/week or more, an increased amount of primary spongiosa was seen in the femur. Renal and testicular/epididymal toxicity, however, were not observed.


A nonpharmacologic approach to managing insomnia in primary care.
Insomnia, or inadequate or poor sleep leading to significant distress or impairment in functioning, is a prevalent disorder treated by primary care providers (PCPs). With millions of people across the United States suffering from insomnia, PCPs must understand the disorder's pathophysiology, perpetuating factors, and treatment, as well as its effect on patient health and the economy. Although PCPs traditionally treat insomnia with pharmaceuticals, behavioral measures are effective and should be used whenever possible. This article reviews clinically relevant principles of diagnosing and treating insomnia, highlighting nonpharmacologic treatments.


Retrospective comparison of neutropenia in children with Ewing sarcoma treated with chemotherapy and granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) or pegylated G-CSF.
Filgrastim is an effective granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) used to reduce periods of neutropenia and the risk of infection after chemotherapy courses. Pegfilgrastim is a pegylated filgrastim with a longer plasma half-life that is administered once per cycle. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of pegfilgrastim and filgrastim administered after chemotherapy in children with Ewing sarcoma. We performed a retrospective chart review of pediatric patients with Ewing sarcoma. Every patient received both types of G-CSF in different treatment courses of chemotherapy, which consisted of vincristine, ifosfamide, doxorubicin, and etoposide (VIDE); vincristine, actinomycin D, and ifosfamide (VAI); or vincristine, actinomycin D, and cyclophosphamide (VAC). A single injection of pegfilgrastim 100 microg/kg SC or a daily injection of filgrastim 5 to 10 microg/kg SC was administered 48 to 72 hours after the completion of chemotherapy. The following data were collected from the medical charts: proportion of chemotherapy courses with grade 4 neutropenia, duration of grade 4 neutropenia, proportion with severe neutropenia, duration of severe neutropenia, proportion with febrile neutropenia, duration of antibiotic treatment, duration of hospitalization, and percentage of patients receiving transfusion. Grade 4 neutropenia was defined as an absolute neutrophil count of <500 x 10(9)/L; severe neutropenia was defined as a count of <200 x 10(9)/L. Adverse events were collected from the medical charts. Twenty children were included (13 girls and 7 boys). The patients' median age was 12.8 years (range, 9-17 years) and median weight was 45.2 kg (range, 28-90 kg). A total of 178 chemotherapy courses (108 VIDE; 70 VAI or VAC) were administered and evaluated, including 134 courses with pegfilgrastim and 44 courses with filgrastim. Considering all types of chemotherapy combined, those courses in which pegfilgrastim was used were associated with a significantly lower incidence of severe neutropenia (0.21 vs 0.85; P = 0.03), a shorter duration of severe neutropenia (0.49 vs 2.36 days; P = 0.01), and a shorter duration of antibiotic treatment (1.07 vs 4.22 days; P = 0.03) compared with courses treated with filgrastim. No statistically significant differences were observed for the proportion and duration of grade 4 neutropenia, proportion of febrile neutropenia, duration of hospitalization, or red blood cell and platelet transfusions. Adverse effects were few and comparable between pegfilgrastim and filgrastim. In this retrospective chart review of children with Ewing sarcoma, using pegfilgrastim after chemotherapy courses was associated with significantly reduced frequency and shorter duration of severe neutropenia compared with those courses followed by filgrastim. Randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these preliminary observations.


Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation for Capitellar Osteochondritis Dissecans.
The goal of the osteochondral autograft transplantation (OAT) procedure is to replace both the bone and cartilage that have been compromised by osteonecrosis of the capitellum, a condition known as osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). In children, the vascularity of the capitellum is limited compared with that in adults because the physis acts as a physical barrier to vascular ingrowth from the metaphysis to the epiphysis. The necrotic subchondral bone cannot keep up with the weight-bearing demands of certain high-level athletes such as gymnasts, accumulating microfractures and eventually crumbling. Without the support of the subchondral bone, the overlying cartilage fractures and eventually comes loose, often floating around the joint as a loose body. Fibrocartilage may form to fill the void left behind but cannot restore either the structural integrity of the bone or the gliding and compressive properties of hyaline cartilage. Replacement of both the bone and the cartilage requires an osteochondral transplant. Fortunately, there are regions of the articular surface of the knee in which there is minimal load or contact and that are therefore expendable as donor osteochondral plugs. We prefer a single-plug technique whenever possible because it is easier to perform and only requires union of the plug to native bone across 1 interface. If a single plug will not cover the defect or cannot be made to match the contour of the capitellum, multiple plugs may be used (i.e., mosaicplasty). Place the patient with the operative side up in the lateral decubitus position with the arm in a holder. First, perform a diagnostic elbow arthroscopy. Use the proximal anteromedial portal to insert the scope across the front of the joint. Using a switching stick, make an anterolateral portal. Place a cannula to prevent having to go in and out of the joint multiple times, as this increases the risk of neurologic injury. Perform a synovectomy if necessary and remove any loose bodies. The absence of synovitis is a sign that the lesion has likely healed. Inspect the capitellum and radial head. The anterior margin of the OCD lesion of the capitellum will be barely visible as the joint is brought to extension.If the lesion is readily visible in the anterior compartment, the lesion will be too anterior to approach from an anconeus split approach. In this case, some have advocated a takedown of the lateral collateral ligament to aid in visualization from a lateral approach1. We have had good success with a direct anterior approach between the brachialis and brachioradialis, mobilizing the radial nerve laterally.If the chondral injury is extensive or includes the articular surface of the radial head, then the injury is too advanced to successfully treat with an OAT procedure. In these cases, we perform an interposition arthroplasty of the radiocapitellar joint. Radial head resection is not an option in a child because of the high risk of proximal radial migration. Radial head replacement likewise is not an option because of the high risk of failure.Switch the viewing and working portals again with use of switching sticks and repeat the process for the medial side of the joint. Make a direct posterior and a proximal posterolateral portal. Never debride on or near the medial gutter because the ulnar nerve is immediately adjacent. Establish a soft spot portal and place the scope through it. Loose bodies and extensive synovitis are typically seen in this area when the soft spot portal is used as a viewing portal. The OCD lesion should be visible through the soft spot portal. If the lesion is not readily visible with some elbow flexion, then the lesion is probably too anterior for an anconeus split approach and an anterior approach should be considered.Challenge the lesion with a probe. If the cartilage is damaged but the subchondral bone holds firm, perform a microfracture technique. If the cartilage is soft or unstable and the underlying bone is compromised, perform an OAT procedure. In the majority of cases in which the lesion is accessible posteriorly, connect the proximal posterolateral portal and the soft spot portal and split the anconeus. The lesion will be visible in deep flexion. There are several options for instrumentation from multiple manufacturers that each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Using a recipient harvester, remove the diseased bone and cartilage to a stable rim, keeping the harvester as perpendicular to the surface as possible.At the knee, make a 3-cm transverse incision directly over the superolateral corner of the lateral femoral condyle. Harvest an appropriately sized plug from the superolateral corner of the articular surface. Inspect the plug because it will often be slightly thicker on one side. Rotate the plug to match the contour of the defect in the capitellum. Mallet the donor plug into the recipient deficit with gentle taps, using as few taps as possible to limit chondrocyte injury. Fill the defect in the knee with your choice of bone substitute. Close both wounds in layers. Other options include allograft plugs, periosteal resurfacing, bone grafting, retrograde and antegrade drilling, and observation. The OCD lesion involves both bone and cartilage. There is now ample evidence that replacing both as a unit yields the best outcomes. Approximately 90% of patients will return to sports participation, and 80% of patients can expect to return to sport at their previous level of participation1-3. A diagnostic arthroscopy confirms the need for the OAT procedure and identifies other pathologies.Remove all of the diseased bone with the recipient harvester.Match the size and contour of the lesion as closely as possible with the plug.Immobilize the elbow in a cast for 4 weeks.


Post COVID-19 Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody-Associated Optic Neuritis.
Neurological manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are relatively common. Although some may be consequences of direct cellular viral invasion (neurotropism), many represent post-infectious inflammation mediated by autoimmune mechanisms. We herein report the case of a 69-year-old diabetic male who presented with bilateral sub-acute, progressive loss of vision 45 days after suffering a presumed SARS-CoV-2 related pneumonia. He had bilateral optic disc oedema. Magnetic resonance imaging showed uniform contrast enhancement of both optic nerves without spinal cord involvement. He tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 IgG and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) IgG antibodies. He was treated with intravenous methylprednisolone for 5 days. The optic disc oedema resolved within 6 weeks with improvement in visual acuity, although optic atrophy developed by week 16. The MOG-IgG antibody test turned negative after 24 weeks.


Traditional Balinese youth groups as a venue for prevention of AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Our aims were to assess the feasibility of conducting peer-led educational interventions against AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) through traditional Balinese youth groups and to gather information on sexual risk-taking and its correlates among Balinese youth. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, with follow-up questionnaires for pilot intervention participants. A self-administered questionnaire was given to 375 subjects (aged 16-25 years) from 12 youth groups representing four main resort areas in Bali. Post-intervention data were collected from 97 of these subjects who had taken part in pilot educational programs. Focus groups supplemented survey data in evaluating the intervention and understanding risk behaviors. In a cross-sectional survey, one-quarter of males and few females reported sexual activity; subsequent focus groups suggested under-reporting by females. While knowledge and worries about HIV/AIDS were high, only 10% of sexually active males and no females reported consistent condom use. The mean age of first sexual intercourse was highly correlated with first alcohol consumption (P = 0.0003). Peer educators from selected youth groups planned and implemented interventions for their own groups. Post-intervention data indicated significant increases in communication about sexual issues with friends and parents. Condom attitudes became less negative and efficacy increased. Participants reported this as a first experience with peer-led health education, preferred interactive activities to adult-led lectures and recommended follow-up educational sessions. Peer educators from traditional youth groups can plan and conduct prevention programs for HIV/STDs that are well-received by their group memberships. Using such venues may be an efficient way to reach a wide range of pre-sexual Balinese youth, as well as those already at risk for HIV/STD due to unprotected sex, alcohol consumption and multiple sexual partners.


Directed avalanche processes with underlying interface dynamics.
We describe a directed avalanche model; a slowly unloading sandbox driven by lowering a retaining wall. The directness of the dynamics allows us to interpret the stable sand surfaces as world sheets of fluctuating interfaces in one lower dimension. In our specific case, the interface growth dynamics belongs to the Kardar-Parisi-Zhang (KPZ) universality class. We formulate relations between the critical exponents of the various avalanche distributions and those of the roughness of the growing interface. The nonlinear nature of the underlying KPZ dynamics provides a nontrivial test of such generic exponent relations. The numerical values of the avalanche exponents are close to the conventional KPZ values, but differ sufficiently to warrant a detailed study of whether avalanche-correlated Monte Carlo sampling changes the scaling exponents of KPZ interfaces. We demonstrate that the exponents remain unchanged, but that the traces left on the surface by previous avalanches give rise to unusually strong finite-size corrections to scaling. This type of slow convergence seems intrinsic to avalanche dynamics.


Subtypes of Bullying and Types of Substance Use among Urban African American Adolescents: Who Is Likely to Use What?
The present study examined the types of drugs likely to be used by bullies, victims, and bully/victims. Participants comprise African American adolescents from three high schools, one youth church group, two community youth programs, and four public venues in low-income communities in Chicago's Southside. A series of logistic regression analyses and latent class analyses were employed. Victims are likely to use alcohol, marijuana, and lean/krokodil. Bullies were likely to use alcohol and marijuana. Bully/victims were not at risk of any of the substances. Our LCA findings revealed a lower occurrence of substance use among victims although 30% used alcohol and marijuana; more than half of bullies showed high levels of alcohol, marijuana, and lean/krokodil use; a diverse pattern of drug use was shown among bully/victims although their lean/krokodil and crack/cocaine use was higher than other subgroups of bullying. The drugs of choice for African American bullies, victims, or bully/victims are variable.


How good is the match between the plane of the text and the plane of focus during reading?
Because results from animal models demonstrate that retinal image defocus is a crucial factor in the visual control of eye growth, we have measured the precision of accommodation during reading at 1 m and at 30 cm distance. A newly developed photorefractor was used to sample both the refraction in the vertical meridian and direction of gaze at 25 Hz. Using these two parameters, a three-dimensional "refraction map" of the visual field was plotted. It showed the optic disc as an area with more myopic refractions and the course of refractions across a visual field of about +/- 25 deg. A special calibration scheme was employed to ensure that the precision of the refractions was 0.2 dpt or better (as estimated from the standard deviations of repeated measurements and the noise in the calibration curve). Twelve young adults (students from the lab) served as subjects. We found considerable inter-individual variability in the off-axis refractions but little variability among repeated measurements in the same subjects. Inter-individual variability reached a minimum in the foveal region. Both myopes wearing their spectacle corrections (n = 6) and emmetropes (n = 6) under-accommodated by about 0.3 D during reading at 30 cm distance but, at 1 m distance, only the emmetropes under-accommodated. Since both refraction groups under-accommodated similarly during reading at close distance, it remains unclear whether the small amount of defocus is critical for their future myopia development. Either accommodation errors differ at earlier times when myopia first appears (as suggested by the literature), or the subjects' eye growth was differently sensitive to defocus, or our simple protocol did not pick up existent differences in accommodation among the two groups.


The regulatory role of vernalization in the expression of low-temperature-induced genes in wheat and rye.
Low temperature is one of the primary stresses limiting the growth and productivity of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and rye (Secale cereale L.). Winter cereals low-temperature-acclimate when exposed to temperatures colder than 10°C. However, they gradually lose their ability to tolerate below-freezing temperatures when they are maintained for long periods of time in the optimum range for low-temperature acclimation. The overwinter decline in low-temperature response has been attributed to an inability of cereals to maintain low-temperature-tolerance genes in an up-regulated state once vernalization saturation has been achieved. In the present study, the low-temperature-induced Wcs120 gene family was used to investigate the relationship between low-temperature gene expression and vernalization response at the molecular level in wheat and rye. The level and duration of gene expression determined the degree of low-temperature tolerance, and the vernalization genes were identified as the key factor responsible for the duration of expression of low-temperature-induced genes. Spring-habit cultivars that did not have a vernalization response were unable to maintain low-temperature-induced genes in an up-regulated condition when exposed to 4°C. Consequently, they were unable to achieve the same levels of low-temperature tolerance as winter-habit cultivars. A close association between the point of vernalization saturation and the start of a decline in the Wcs120 gene-family mRNA level and protein accumulation in plants maintained at 4°C indicated that vernalization genes have a regulatory influence over low-temperature gene expression in winter cereals.


[Bryophyte diversity and microhabitat characteristics of bryophyte-dominated biological soil crusts development in water-wind erosion crisscross region of the northern Loess Plateau, China].
Microhabitat factors play an important role in regulating bryophyte species distribution and the development of bryophyte-dominated biological soil crusts (hereafter bryophyte crusts). We investigated the distribution and development of bryophytes in eight microhabitats in the water-wind erosion crisscross region of the Loess Pla-teau. We used the line intercept transects to explore and quantify the influencing pathways of microhabitat factors on bryophyte diversity and analyzed the influencing pathways of plant cover, slope aspect, and slope gradient by using structural equation model to quantify influencing coefficients. Our results showed that: 1) The Patrick, Shannon, Pielou, and Simpson indcies of bryophytes under plant canopy were 63.4%, 66.6%, 91.0%, and 68.3% lower than that without plant canopy, respectively, while the thickness, biomass, and chlorophyll content of bryophyte crusts were 0.5, 0.2, and 1.3 times higher than that without plant canopy, respectively. 2) The Patrick, Shannon, Pielou, and Simpson indexes of bryophytes on the north slope were 0.6, 0.9, 5.6, and 0.9 times higher than those on the south slope, while the thickness, biomass, and chlorophyll content of bryophyte crusts were 0.3, 0.3, and 0.6 times higher than those on the south slope, respectively. 3) As the slope increasing from 14° to 34°, the Patrick, Shannon, Pielou, and Simpson indexes of bryophyte were decreased by 59.8%, 84.1%, 57.3% and 68.0%, and the thickness, biomass, and chlorophyll content of bryophyte crusts were decreased by 15.2%, 25.0%, and 16.5%, respectively. 4) The importance of the three microhabitat factors on bryophyte diversity and the development of bryophyte crusts followed an order of plant canopy cover > slope aspect > slope gradient. The primary influencing pathway varied among the microhabitat factors. In conclusion, plant cover, slope aspect, and slope gradient significantly affected the distribution of bryophytes species and developmental level of bryophyte crusts through direct and indirect pathways. Therefore, full consideration should be given to microhabitat conditions when using bryophyte crusts to control desertification.


Severity scoring in the critically ill: part 1--interpretation and accuracy of outcome prediction scoring systems.
This review examines the use of scoring systems to assess ICU performance. APACHE (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation), MPM (mortality probability model), and SAPS (simplified acute physiology score) are the three major ICU scoring systems in use today. Central to all three is the use of physiologic data for severity adjustment. Differences in the size, nature, and time horizon of the data set translate into minor differences in accuracy and difficulty of data abstraction. APACHE IV provides ICU and hospital predictions for mortality and length of stay, whereas MPM and SAPS only provide hospital mortality predictions (although new algorithms generated from MPM data elements may predict ICU length of stay adequately). The primary use of scoring systems is for assessing ICU performance, with the ratio of actual-to-predicted outcomes in the study cohort providing performance comparisons to the reference ICUs. The reliability of scoring system predictions depends on the completeness and accuracy of the abstracted data; accordingly, ICUs must implement robust data quality control processes. CIs of the ratios are inversely related to sample size, and care must be taken to avoid overinterpreting changes in outcomes. ICU structural and process issues also can affect scoring system performance measures. Despite good discrimination and calibration, scoring systems are used in only 10% to 15% of US ICUs. Without ICU performance data, there is little hope of improving quality and reducing costs. Current demands for transparency and computerization of documentation are likely to drive future use of ICU scoring systems.


PTEN, PIK3CA, p-AKT, and p-p70S6K status: association with trastuzumab response and survival in patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer.
Phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) is a key modulator of trastuzumab sensitivity in HER2-overexpressing breast cancer. Because PTEN opposes the downstream signaling of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), we investigated the role of PTEN and other components of the PI3K pathway in trastuzumab resistance. We analyzed the status of PTEN, p-AKT-Ser473, and p-p70S6K-Thr389 using immunohistochemistry. PIK3CA mutation status was analyzed by direct sequencing. Primary tumor tissue was available from 137 patients with HER2-overexpressing metastatic breast cancer who had received trastuzumab-based chemotherapy. We observed that each of the four biomarkers alone did not significantly correlate with trastuzumab response, whereas PTEN loss alone significantly correlated with shorter survival times (P = 0.023). PI3K pathway activation, defined as PTEN loss and/or PIK3CA mutation, was associated with a poor response to trastuzumab (P = 0.047) and a shorter survival time (P = 0.015). PTEN loss was significantly associated with a poor response to trastuzumab (P = 0.028) and shorter survival time (P = 0.008) in patients who had received first-line trastuzumab and in patients with estrogen receptor- (P = 0.029) and progesterone receptor-negative tumors (P = 0.033). p-AKT-Ser473 and p-p70S6K-Thr389 each had a limited correlation with trastuzumab response. When these markers were combined with PTEN loss, an increased correlation with patient outcome was observed. In conclusion, PI3K pathway activation plays a pivotal role in trastuzumab resistance. Our findings may facilitate the evaluation of tumor response to trastuzumab-based and targeted therapies.


[Biodiversity of mycocoenoses of oral cavity, throat and nose of children aged 6-15 years].
The purpose of this study was analysis of biodiversity of mycoflora in selected ontocenoses of healthy children. The material for the study was consisted of swabs taken from oral cavity, pharynx, and nose of healthy children: 128 girls and 142 boys. The material for the study was collected in May and November, dividing the children into two age groups: 6-9 years and 10-15 years. A total of 13 species representing 5 genera: Candida, Rhodotorula, Saccharomyces, Saccharomycopsis and Trichosporon were found in the material studied. The dominant group were yeasts-like fungi. Candida albicans, the basic etiological factor of the majority of mycotic diseases in humans, was found most frequently. Appearance of Candida glabrata and C. krusei is a reason for concern, as increasing numbers of their strains are resistant to basic antimycotic drugs, as well as relatively frequent appearance of Trichosporon beigelii, Saccharomycopsis capsularis, and Saccharomyces sp.--the fungi showing increasing expansiveness and enzymatic activity. The fungi were most frequently isolated from oral cavity and pharynx. No phenological changes in fungal prevalence were found in the pharynx. In the other ontocenoses fungi were found much more frequently in the spring than in the autumn. Regardless of the season, the largest fluctuations in biodiversity and numbers of the studied mycocoenoses were observed in the oral cavity and nose--the organs that come into direct contact with environmental contaminants and many agents of transmission for potentially pathological fungi.


A clinical trial of a topical preparation of miconazole, polymyxin and prednisolone in the treatment of otitis externa in dogs.
A topical preparation containing miconazole, polymyxin and prednisolone was shown to be more effective in the treatment of otitis externa in 167 dogs than 2 other ear preparations containing antibiotics, an antimycotic and a corticosteroid. With miconazole, polymyxin and prednisolone, the recurrence rate was 26.7% compared with 72.6% and 54.3% when the other products were used. The mean duration of treatment required to achieve resolution of clinical signs was 9.6 days, compared with 12.2 days and 13.0 days and no cases failed to respond to treatment, compared with 17.7% and 14.3%. Malassezia canis alone (71%) or in association with bacteria (18%) was recovered from 44 of 49 ears cultured.


Drift Time Corrections Based on a Practical Measurement of the Depletion Zone to Allow Accurate and Reproducible Determination of the Reduced Mobility of Ions in DT-IMS.
The reduced mobility of an ion is a key parameter for identifying ions and comparing spectra in drift time ion mobility spectrometry. As the resolution of spectrometers improves, accurate determination of the reduced mobility is increasingly important. The drift time, used to calculate the reduced mobility, is affected by the ion gate, and this effect has previously been compensated with a linear correction. These corrections, however, do not allow for changes in the distances that the ions must drift to reach the detector caused by the electric field around the ion gate. As these corrections are a linear correction, nonlinearity in the influence of the ion gate may also lead to greater errors. By measuring the length of the depletion zone in front of the ion gate the extra distance traveled by the ions may be corrected for. This measurement also provides the boundary conditions for when a correction to the drift time may be accurately applied. This work shows that the length of the depletion zone can be experimentally measured and that it is consistent for a particular geometry of ion gate.


Chemistry of single-walled carbon nanotubes.
In this Account we highlight the experimental evidence in favor of our view that carbon nanotubes should be considered as a new macromolecular form of carbon with unique properties and with great potential for practical applications. We show that carbon nanotubes may take on properties that are normally associated with molecular species, such as solubility in organic solvents, solution-based chemical transformations, chromatography, and spectroscopy. It is already clear that the nascent field of nanotube chemistry will rival that of the fullerenes.


Polydopamine Linking Substrate for AMPs: Characterisation and Stability on Ti6Al4V.
Infections are common complications in joint replacement surgeries. Eradicated infections can lead to implant failure. In this paper, analogues of the peptide KR-12 derived from the human cathelicidin LL-37 were designed, synthesised, and characterised. The designed antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) were attached to the surface of a titanium alloy, Ti6Al4V, by conjugation to a polydopamine linking substrate. The topography of the polydopamine coating was evaluated by electron microscopy and coating thickness measurements were performed with ellipsometry and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). The subsequently attached peptide stability was investigated with release profile studies in simulated body fluid, using both fluorescence imaging and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Finally, the hydrophobicity of the coating was characterised by water contact angle measurements. The designed AMPs were shown to provide long-term bonding to the polydopamine-coated Ti6Al4V surfaces.


Equity-efficiency trade-offs in health technology assessment.
Health technology assessment (HTA) currently focuses on efficiency, rather than equity, on the basis that its primary objective is to maximize population health. Yet a strict cost-effectiveness approach sometimes conflicts with important equity concerns, such as the reduction of socioeconomic health inequalities. Managing such equity-efficiency trade-offs on the basis of intuition is unsatisfactory in a democracy, as it arouses suspicions of special pleading and favoritism toward vested interests. Over the next few decades, therefore, decision making may progress through up to three further stages of development observed historically in other areas of resource allocation. Stage two involves case law, limited to principles distilled from precedent. Stage three involves codification, seeking to generalize these principles without specifying their relative weights. Finally, at stage four, quantitative trade-offs are incorporated into a formula. At stage four, deliberation centers on adjustments to the formula, which would then be applied impartially, transparently, and fair-mindedly to all future decisions. Methods already exist for valuing equity-efficiency trade-offs, based on established methodological principles for valuing trade-offs between different dimensions of health. Early findings indicate that the general public thinks that social class inequalities are more inequitable than those by smoking status, with inequalities between the sexes somewhere in between. Relative weights can be calculated from these data, although the data are not yet comprehensive enough to do this credibly for current policy purposes. In the mean time, the equity-efficiency trade-offs suggested by current decisions can be estimated using standard cost-effectiveness analysis. This is because every departure from a strict cost-effectiveness approach has an opportunity cost. The size of that opportunity cost is a test of how much weight a particular equity concern is deemed to merit.


Role of innate and drug-induced dysregulation of brain stress and arousal systems in addiction: Focus on corticotropin-releasing factor, nociceptin/orphanin FQ, and orexin/hypocretin.
Stress-like symptoms are an integral part of acute and protracted drug withdrawal, and several lines of evidence have shown that dysregulation of brain stress systems, including the extrahypothalamic corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) system, following long-term drug use is of major importance in maintaining drug and alcohol addiction. Recently, two other neuropeptide systems have attracted interest, the nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) and orexin/hypocretin (Orx/Hcrt) systems. N/OFQ participates in a wide range of physiological responses, and the hypothalamic Orx/Hcrt system helps regulate several physiological processes, including feeding, energy metabolism, and arousal. Moreover, these two systems have been suggested to participate in psychiatric disorders, including anxiety and drug addiction. Dysregulation of these systems by chronic drug exposure has been hypothesized to play a role in the maintenance of addiction and dependence. Recent evidence demonstrated that interactions between CRF-N/OFQ and CRF-Orx/Hcrt systems may be functionally relevant for the control of stress-related addictive behavior. The present review discusses recent findings that support the hypotheses of the participation and dysregulation of these systems in drug addiction and evaluates the current understanding of interactions among these stress-regulatory peptides.


Arrhenius analysis of anisotropic surface self-diffusion on the prismatic facet of ice.
We present an Arrhenius analysis of self-diffusion on the prismatic surface of ice calculated from molecular dynamics simulations. The six-site water model of Nada and van der Eerden was used in combination with a structure-based criterion for determining the number of liquid-like molecules in the quasi-liquid layer. Simulated temperatures range from 230 K-287 K, the latter being just below the melting temperature of the model, 289 K. Calculated surface diffusion coefficients agree with available experimental data to within quoted precision. Our results indicate a positive Arrhenius curvature, implying a change in the mechanism of self-diffusion from low to high temperature, with a concomitant increase in energy of activation from 29.1 kJ mol(-1) at low temperature to 53.8 kJ mol(-1) close to the melting point. In addition, we find that the surface self-diffusion is anisotropic at lower temperatures, transitioning to isotropic in the temperature range of 240-250 K. We also present a framework for self-diffusion in the quasi-liquid layer on ice that aims to explain these observations.


Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity against cells infected with the human immunodeficiency virus.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) elicits the production of virus-specific antibodies in infected individuals. We investigated the ability of serum from HIV-infected individuals to mediate antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity in an in vitro 51Cr release assay system. Fresh peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy donors seronegative for HIV were used as cellular effectors against HIV-infected and uninfected H9 target cells in the presence of serum from HIV-infected or uninfected donors. Serum from HIV-infected, but not uninfected, donors significantly augmented cytolysis of virus-infected targets (P less than .005). There was no augmented killing of uninfected H9 cells with sera from either group. Studies using serum from mice that had been immunized with synthetic peptides from the HIV envelope region suggested that this response is directed, at least in part, at several determinants of the transmembrane portion of the HIV envelope glycoprotein.


Changes in freezing tolerance in hybrid poplar caused by up- and down-regulation of PtFAD2 gene expression.
In plant species, the level of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) is essential for cold acclimation. To test whether changes in PUFA levels can lead to the alteration of freezing tolerance in poplar trees, we up- and down-regulated a Populus tomentosa Delta-12 fatty acid desaturase gene (PtFAD2) in the hybrid poplar (P. alba x P. glandulosa) clone 84 K. Real-time PCR results demonstrated that compared to untransformed control lines, the transcriptional level of PtFAD2 increased by up to 90% in over-expressing poplar lines (line OE-1) and decreased in down-regulated RNAi lines by up to 64% (line DR-1). As a result, the content of linoleic (C18:2) and linolenic (C18:3) unsaturated fatty acids (FAs) in total FAs increased by 7.5 and 3.9%, respectively, in the OE-1 line and decreased by 14.4 and 5.4% in the DR-2 line when compared to non-transgenic lines. After freezing treatment at -4 degrees C for 3 h without pre-cold acclimation, the survival rates of the PtFAD2-over-expressing cuttings were significantly higher (60% for OE-1) than those of non-transgenic plants (36.7%) and down-regulated lines (10% for DR-2). These results clearly demonstrate that the expression level of PUFAs substantially affected the freezing tolerance of hybrid poplar cuttings and could thus be utilized as an effective strategy to improve poplar anti-freezing traits through genetic engineering biotechnology.


The long-term effects of phase advance shifts of photoperiod on cardiovascular parameters as measured by radiotelemetry in rats.
Cardiovascular parameters, such as blood pressure and heart rate, exhibit both circadian and ultradian rhythms which are important for the adequate functioning of the system. For a better understanding of possible negative effects of chronodisruption on the cardiovascular system we studied circadian and ultradian rhythms of blood pressure and heart rate in rats exposed to repeated 8 h phase advance shifts of photoperiod. The experiment lasted 12 weeks, with three shifts per week. Spectral power as a function of frequency for both circadian and harmonic ultradian rhythms was expressed as the circadian-ultradian power ratio. The circadian rhythms of blood pressure, heart rate and locomotor activity were recorded during the control light:dark (LD) regimen with higher values during the D in comparison with the L. Phase advance shifts resulted in a diminished circadian-ultradian power ratio for blood pressure, heart rate and locomotor activity indicating suppressed circadian control of these traits greater in heart rate than blood pressure. In conclusion, rats kept under irregular LD conditions have suppressed circadian control of heart rate, blood pressure and locomotor activity and rely more on an acute response to the LD regime. Their ability to anticipate regular loads can be weakened and in this way chronodisruption can contribute to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases.


Risk factors predicting mortality in patients with lung abscess in a public tertiary care center in Karachi, Pakistan.
Lung abscess is a commonly encountered entity in South-East Asia but not much data regarding its outcome is available. The objective of this study was to identify the factors associated with increased mortality in patients diagnosed with lung abscess in a tertiary care center of Karachi, Pakistan. A retrospective case analysis was performed via hospital records, on patients admitted with lung abscess between January 2009 and January 2011 at the largest state-owned tertiary care centre in Karachi, Pakistan. Out of the 41 patients hospitalized, 17 could not survive and were evaluated for clinical, radiological and microbiological factors to determine association with heightened mortality. Mortality due to lung abscess stood at 41.4% (17 of 41 cases). Adult male patients were found to have higher mortality with 13 out of 17 (43%) dead patients being male. A majority (21/41, 51.2%) of the cases belonged to the 41-60 year old age group. Highest mortality was seen in patients<20 years of age (3/4, 75%). Patients with blood sugar levels of >200 mg/dL (56%) succumb to disease. Patients with a positive history of smoking, diabetes mellitus, and alcohol intake expressed mortality rates of 44%, 56%, and 50% respectively; while 29.4% of the mortalities were positive for Pseudomonas aeruginosa on sputum culture. A significant association was found with elevated mortality and low haemoglobin levels at time of admission; mortality was 58% (p=0.005) in patients with Hb less than or equal to 10 mg/dL. The risk factors involved with heightened mortality included male gender and history of smoking, diabetes and alcohol intake. High blood sugar levels and detection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on sputum cultures were also implicated. Anemia (Hb level less than or equal to 10 mg/dl) was statistically significant predictive factor for increased mortality.


Inorganic Reactive Sulfur-Nitrogen Species: Intricate Release Mechanisms or Cacophony in Yellow, Blue and Red?
Since the heydays of Reactive Sulfur Species (RSS) research during the first decade of the Millennium, numerous sulfur species involved in cellular regulation and signalling have been discovered. Yet despite the general predominance of organic species in organisms, recent years have also seen the emergence of inorganic reactive sulfur species, ranging from inorganic polysulfides (HSx-/Sx2-) to thionitrous acid (HSNO) and nitrosopersulfide (SSNO-). These inorganic species engage in a complex interplay of reactions in vitro and possibly also in vivo. Employing a combination of spectrophotometry and sulfide assays, we have investigated the role of polysulfanes from garlic during the release of nitric oxide (•NO) from S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) in the absence and presence of thiol reducing agents. Our studies reveal a distinct enhancement of GSNO decomposition by compounds such as diallyltrisulfane, which is most pronounced in the presence of cysteine and glutathione and presumably proceeds via the initial release of an inorganic mono- or polysulfides, i.e., hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) or HSx-, from the organic polysulfane. Albeit being of a preliminary nature, our spectrophotometric data also reveals a complicated underlying mechanism which appears to involve transient species such as SSNO-. Eventually, more in depth studies are required to further explore the underlying chemistry and wider biological and nutritional implications of this interplay between edible garlic compounds, reductive activation, inorganic polysulfides and their interplay with •NO storage and release.


Expression, purification, and characterization of the G domain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae elongation factor 2.
Protein synthesis elongation factor 2 (EF-2), a member of the G protein superfamily, catalyzes the movement of the ribosome along mRNA in a reaction driven by the hydrolysis of GTP. In the present study, we have expressed, purified, and characterized the G domain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae EF-2 to define its functional properties. A peptide of 185 amino acids was found to be sufficient to bind guanine nucleotides when expressed in Escherichia coli either as a fusion with the maltose binding protein or as a truncation. The fusion was expressed as a soluble, active protein, while the truncation was expressed as an insoluble protein that required renaturation in order to function. Similar to native EF-2, both expression products bound GDP, but they did so with significantly lower affinity (Kd ca. 200 microM for both the fusion and the truncation vs ca. 0.5 microM for native EF-2). However, in contrast to native EF-2 which requires the ribosome for GTP hydrolysis, the isolated G domain hydrolyzed GTP (Km ca. 40 microM; turnover rate ca. 0.5 min-1) in the absence of the ribosome. We conclude that the G domain residues necessary for GTP binding and hydrolysis are located in the first 185 amino acids of S. cerevisiae EF-2.


Preparation of Arjunāriṣṭa Using Microbes Isolated from Woodfordia fruticosa Flowers (Dhayati).
To verify the utility of isolated fermentative microbes from Woodfordia fruticosa flowers for preparation of Arjunāriṣṭa formulation and its comparative evaluation with the same formulation prepared by traditional method. In the present technique, isolated colonies of microorganisms from Woodfordia fruticosa (Dhātakī) flowers on Saubroad dextrose media were separated and suspended in sterile water. This suspension was aseptically added in previously sterilized mixtures containing all intended ingredients for Arjunāriṣṭa which was thereafter incubated for 20 days at 37°C to achieve optimal fermentation. The formulation thus obtained was further subjected to various evaluation tests. Arjunāriṣṭa was prepared using a new approach, and in that, isolated microorganisms from the flowers of Woodfordia fruticosa (Dhātakī) were used. It was found that the new approach was successful in generating approximately same quantities of alcohol content in comparison with traditional methods which have shown varying concentration of alcoholic content. Moreover, the new process prevents the growth of unwanted microbes thus, optimizing standards for purity and safety of the formulation. The formulation prepared by a new procedure showed marked uniformity for different parameters such as alcohol production, total phenol content, total solid content as compared to that prepared by the traditional method. Similarly, the results of thin layer chromatography, high performance thin layer chromatography showed marked uniformity related to quality, safety, efficacy, and reproducibility of the new method as compared to the traditional one. Thus, the modern technique was found to show reproducibility and facilitate easier quality assessment.


Interactions of inorganic phosphate with spinach coupling factor 1. Effects on ATPase and ADP binding activities.
Illumination of chloroplast thylakoid membranes results in both the release of adenine nucleotides from the tight nucleotide binding site(s) on chloroplast coupling factor 1 (CF1) and the activation of a light-triggered ATPase activity of CF1. Because inorganic phosphate stabilizes the light-triggered ATPase activity of CF1 in the dark, the effects of Pi on the rebinding of ADP to CF1 and on the light-triggered ATPase activity have been studied. Pi appears to be a partial noncompetitive inhibitor, with respect to ADP, of adenine nucleotide binding to the tight nucleotide binding site(s) on CF1 and induces negative cooperativity. The latter result suggests the existence of heterogeneous ADP binding sites in the presence of Pi. However, even under conditions where Pi causes a 50% reduction of tightly bound ADP, the ADP-induced dark decay of the ATPase activity is still complete. It was found that Pi inhibition of the light-induced dark binding of ADP can be reversed by the removal of the Pi. Removal of Pi also induces a small but significant ATPase activity. A model for the roles of the adenine nucleotide tight binding site(s) and Pi in the modulation of the spinach CF1 ATPase activity is proposed.


[Localized amyloidosis of the larynx].
Localized laryngeal amyloidosis is a rare laryngeal disease which accounts for less than 1% of all benign laryngeal tumors. The symptoms depend on where the amyloid deposit is located in the larynx. When the vocal cords are involved there may be some hoarseness; pain or increasing difficulty in inspiration may arise when, respectively, the aryepiglottic fold or subglottic space are involved. The present paper reports a case of laryngeal amyloidosis without any sign of systemic disease. It also deals with the principle diagnostic procedures to follow. After a review of the literature, emphasis is placed on how important it is to recognize laryngeal amyloidosis in order to achieve an appropriate diagnosis and plan therapy properly. Surgery is the main treatment using either endoscopy or an external neck approach. Recently CO2 laser surgery has been used successfully. Prognosis depends on both the size of the amyloid deposit and whether there is some simultaneous overall involvement.


Modeling zidovudine therapy: a cost-effectiveness analysis.
Zidovudine (ZDV), the first FDA-approved therapy for HIV/AIDS, poses a dilemma to the policymaker. On the one hand, ZDV extends the life of HIV-infected persons, producing a clear benefit. On the other hand, some fear that prolonging the lives of infected individuals may contribute to the increased spread of the virus and to a steep rise in the overall costs of AIDS to society. To address this issue, we present a simple model of ZDV therapy against a backdrop of HIV transmission in a population of sexually active, gay men. We find no basis for the fear of dramatic increases in the incidence of AIDS or its associated costs among gay men due to widespread ZDV distribution. On the contrary, our analysis suggests that ZDV therapy is cost-effective, particularly when it is accompanied by modest efforts to promote behavior change and prevention.


The 24-hour respiratory quotient predicts energy intake and changes in body mass.
To define the relationship between the respiratory quotient (RQ) and energy intake (EI) and to determine the impact of spontaneous locomotor activity (LMA) in the development of diet-induced obesity (DIO), we fed C57BL/6 mice a high-fat diet (HFD) for either 4 days or 17 wk and analyzed them using indirect calorimetry. Importantly, changes in body mass during calorimetry (DeltaM(b)) significantly covaried with RQ and EI; adjusting the data for DeltaM(b) permitted an analysis of the energy-balanced state. The 24-h RQ strongly predicted 24-h EI, and the slope of this relationship was diet dependent (HFD or chow) but independent of the HFD feeding period. Early-stage DIO was characterized by dark-period hyperphagia and fat storage, offset by greater light-period lipid oxidation; later stage DIO mice had a milder hyperphagia and lower substrate flexibility. Consequently, whereas 24-h RQ equaled the food quotient of the HFD in both early- and late-stage DIO, the range of RQ values was negatively correlated with, and mostly explained by, 24-h EI only in late-stage DIO. Lean and early-stage DIO mice had similar LMA values that were reduced in late-stage DIO. However, LMA significantly explained variance in total energy expenditure (EE) in only early-stage DIO mice. This indicated that the link between LMA and EE was a transient adaptive response to early DIO, whereas the later loss of LMA did not explain body weight gain in C57BL/6 DIO mice.


Roxatidine, an H(2) receptor blocker, is an estrogenic compound--experimental evidence.
Roxatidine is an H(2) receptor blocker frequently used in the treatment of peptic ulcers. H(2) receptor blockers are reported to show antifertility activity. To examine the mechanism of antifertility, estrogenic and antiestrogenic activity was studied using an in vitro rat and rabbit uterine receptor binding assay and in vivo using the uterotrophic assay in immature Wistar rats. The results revealed that roxatidine showed mild receptor binding affinity to both rat and rabbit uterine receptors when compared to estradiol. Interstingly, in vivo roxatidine increases the wet uterine weight of immature Wistar rats significantly (P<0.001) when compared to a control group. The increase in uterine weight within the roxatidine treated group was somewhat similar to that of the estradiol treated group. Histopathological results and the structure of the roxatidine support that H(2) receptor blocker roxatidine is an estrogenic compound.


Research on the Force-Sensitive Characteristic of InAs QD Embedded in HEMT.
A force-sensitive structure of an InAs Quantum Dot (QD) embedded in a high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) is presented in this paper. The size of an InAs QD is about 30 nm prepared by the S-K growth mode, and the force-sensitive structure is fabricated by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). The force-sensitivity characteristic of the QD HEMT is studied by the electrical and mechanical properties. The electrical characteristics show that the InAs QD-HEMT has linear, cut-off, and saturation operating states, and produces different output currents under different gate voltages, which shows that the structure is reasonable. Furthermore, the results of the output characteristics under different pressure show that the output voltage of the QD-HEMT decreases with the increase in pressure, which indicates that the InAs QD-HEMT has a vital mechanical-electrical coupling characteristic. The output voltage of the InAs QD-HEMT in the range of 0-100 kPa shows that the sensitivity was 1.09 mV/kPa.


Plasma concentrations of endothelin-1 and endothelin-3 are altered differently in various pathophysiological conditions in humans.
Several studies have indicated that endothelin-1 (ET-1) and endothelin-3 (ET-3) are produced by different cells. Although ET-1 is produced by vascular endothelial cells, these cells do not produce ET-3. In the present study, we measured plasma concentrations of both ET-1 and ET-3 by sandwich-enzyme immunoassays which we developed recently in patients on chronic hemodialysis, age-matched normal subjects, patients with acute myocardial infarction, patients undergoing surgery, and healthy subjects before and after strenuous endurance exercise. Plasma levels of ET-1 and ET-3 were demonstrated to be altered differently in the above conditions in humans. Although the exact origin of circulating endothelins has yet to be elucidated, the different alterations of plasma levels suggest that both ET-1 and ET-3 may play different roles in physiological and/or pathophysiological responses to various conditions in humans.