Low-pressure pyrolysis of tBu2SO: synthesis and IR spectroscopic detection of HSOH.
Sulfenic acid (HSOH, 1) has been synthesized in the gas-phase by low-pressure high-temperature (1150 degrees C) pyrolysis of di-tert-butyl sulfoxide (tBu(2)SO, 2) and characterized by means of matrix isolation and gas-phase IR spectroscopy. High-level coupled-cluster (CC) calculations (CCSD(T)/cc-pVTZ and CCSD(T)/cc-pVQZ) support the first identification of the gas-phase IR spectrum of 1 and enable its spectral characterization. Five of the six vibrational fundamentals of matrix-isolated 1 have been assigned, and its rotational-resolved gas-phase IR spectrum provides additional information on the O-H and S-H stretching fundamentals. Investigations of the pyrolysis reaction by mass spectrometry, matrix isolation, and gas-phase FT-IR spectroscopy reveal that, up to 500 degrees C, 2 decomposes selectively into tert-butylsulfenic acid, (tBuSOH, 3), and 2-methylpropene. The formation of the isomeric sulfoxide (tBu(H)SO, 3 a) has been excluded. Transient 3 has been characterized by a comprehensive matrix and gas-phase vibrational IR study guided by the predicted vibrational spectrum calculated at the density functional theory (DFT) level (B3LYP/6-311+G(2d,p)). At higher temperatures, the intramolecular decomposition of 3, monitored by matrix IR spectroscopy, yields short-lived 1 along with 2-methylpropene, but also H(2)O, and most probably sulfur atoms. In addition, HSSOH (6), H(2), and S(2)O are found among the final pyrolysis products observed at 1150 degrees C in the gas phase owing to competing intra- and intermolecular decomposition routes of 3. The decomposition routes of the starting compound 2 and of the primary intermediate 3 are discussed on the basis of experimental results and a computational study performed at the B3LYP/6-311G* and second-order Møller-Plesset (MP2/6-311G* and RI-MP2/QZVPP) levels of theory.


Thrombin flux and wall shear rate regulate fibrin fiber deposition state during polymerization under flow.
Thrombin is released as a soluble enzyme from the surface of platelets and tissue-factor-bearing cells to trigger fibrin polymerization during thrombosis under flow conditions. Although isotropic fibrin polymerization under static conditions involves protofibril extension and lateral aggregation leading to a gel, factors regulating fiber growth are poorly quantified under hemodynamic flow due to the difficulty of setting thrombin fluxes. A membrane microfluidic device allowed combined control of both thrombin wall flux (10(-13) to 10(-11) nmol/mum(2) s) and the wall shear rate (10-100 s(-1)) of a flowing fibrinogen solution. At a thrombin flux of 10(-12) nmol/mum(2) s, both fibrin deposition and fiber thickness decreased as the wall shear rate increased from 10 to 100 s(-1). Direct measurement and transport-reaction simulations at 12 different thrombin flux-wall shear rate conditions demonstrated that two dimensionless numbers, the Peclet number (Pe) and the Damkohler number (Da), defined a state diagram to predict fibrin morphology. For Da < 10, we only observed thin films at all Pe. For 10 < Da < 900, we observed either mat fibers or gels, depending on the Pe. For Da > 900 and Pe < 100, we observed three-dimensional gels. These results indicate that increases in wall shear rate quench first lateral aggregation and then protofibril extension.


Transport through correlated systems with density functional theory.
We present recent advances in density functional theory (DFT) for applications in the field of quantum transport, with particular emphasis on transport through strongly correlated systems. We review the foundations of the popular Landauer-Büttiker(LB) + DFT approach. This formalism, when using approximations to the exchange-correlation (xc) potential with steps at integer occupation, correctly captures the Kondo plateau in the zero bias conductance at zero temperature but completely fails to capture the transition to the Coulomb blockade (CB) regime as the temperature increases. To overcome the limitations of LB + DFT, the quantum transport problem is treated from a time-dependent (TD) perspective using TDDFT, an exact framework to deal with nonequilibrium situations. The steady-state limit of TDDFT shows that in addition to an xc potential in the junction, there also exists an xc correction to the applied bias. Open shell molecules in the CB regime provide the most striking examples of the importance of the xc bias correction. Using the Anderson model as guidance we estimate these corrections in the limit of zero bias. For the general case we put forward a steady-state DFT which is based on one-to-one correspondence between the pair of basic variables, steady density on and steady current across the junction and the pair local potential on and bias across the junction. Like TDDFT, this framework also leads to both an xc potential in the junction and an xc correction to the bias. Unlike TDDFT, these potentials are independent of history. We highlight the universal features of both xc potential and xc bias corrections for junctions in the CB regime and provide an accurate parametrization for the Anderson model at arbitrary temperatures and interaction strengths, thus providing a unified DFT description for both Kondo and CB regimes and the transition between them.


Photoresponsive Foams Generated by a Rigid Surfactant Derived from Dehydroabietic Acid.
Innovation in the structure of surfactants is crucial to the construction of a surfactant-based system with intriguing properties. With dehydroabietic acid as a starting material, a nearly totally rigid azobenzene surfactant (R-azo-Na) was synthesized. The trans-R-azo-Na formed stable foams with half-lives of 636, 656, 976, and 872 min for 0.3, 1, 2, and 4 mmol·L-1 aqueous solutions, respectively. Under UV light irradiation, a fast collapse of the foams was observed, showing an in situ response. The excellent foam stability of trans-R-azo-Na leads to the extremely high photoresponsive efficiency. As revealed by dynamic surface tension and pulsed-field gradient NMR methods, an obvious energy barrier existed in the adsorption/desorption process of trans-R-azo-Na on the air/water interface. The foams formed by trans-R-azo-Na are thus stable against coarsening processes. The results reveal the unique photoresponsive behavior of a surfactant with a rigid hydrophobic skeleton and provide new insights into the structure causing aggregation of surfactants.


Signal Integration in Quorum Sensing Enables Cross-Species Induction of Virulence in Pectobacterium wasabiae.
Bacterial communities can sense their neighbors, regulating group behaviors in response to cell density and environmental changes. The diversity of signaling networks in a single species has been postulated to allow custom responses to different stimuli; however, little is known about how multiple signals are integrated and the implications of this integration in different ecological contexts. In the plant pathogen Pectobacterium wasabiae (formerly Erwinia carotovora), two signaling networks-the N-acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) quorum-sensing system and the Gac/Rsm signal transduction pathway-control the expression of secreted plant cell wall-degrading enzymes, its major virulence determinants. We show that the AHL system controls the Gac/Rsm system by affecting the expression of the regulatory RNA RsmB. This regulation is mediated by ExpR2, the quorum-sensing receptor that responds to the P. wasabiae cognate AHL but also to AHLs produced by other bacterial species. As a consequence, this level of regulation allows P. wasabiae to bypass the Gac-dependent regulation of RsmB in the presence of exogenous AHLs or AHL-producing bacteria. We provide in vivo evidence that this pivotal role of RsmB in signal transduction is important for the ability of P. wasabiae to induce virulence in response to other AHL-producing bacteria in multispecies plant lesions. Our results suggest that the signaling architecture in P. wasabiae was coopted to prime the bacteria to eavesdrop on other bacteria and quickly join the efforts of other species, which are already exploiting host resources.IMPORTANCE Quorum-sensing mechanisms enable bacteria to communicate through small signal molecules and coordinate group behaviors. Often, bacteria have various quorum-sensing receptors and integrate information with other signal transduction pathways, presumably allowing them to respond to different ecological contexts. The plant pathogen Pectobacterium wasabiae has two N-acyl homoserine lactone receptors with apparently the same regulatory functions. Our work revealed that the receptor with the broadest signal specificity is also responsible for establishing the link between the main signaling pathways regulating virulence in P. wasabiae This link is essential to provide P. wasabiae with the ability to induce virulence earlier in response to higher densities of other bacterial species. We further present in vivo evidence that this novel regulatory link enables P. wasabiae to join related bacteria in the effort to degrade host tissue in multispecies plant lesions. Our work provides support for the hypothesis that interspecies interactions are among the major factors influencing the network architectures observed in bacterial quorum-sensing pathways.


Origins of the diffuse shared proton vibrational signatures in proton-coupled electron transfer model dyad complexes.
Phenol-benzimidazole and phenol-pyridine dyad complexes have served as popular model systems for the study of proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) kinetics in solution-phase experiments. Interpretation of measured PCET rates in terms of key structural parameters, such as the H-bond donor-acceptor distance, however, remains challenging. Herein, we report vibrational spectra in the electronic ground state for a series of phenol-benzimidazole and phenol-pyridine complexes isolated and cryogenically cooled in an ion trap. The four models studied each display highly red-shifted and broadened OH stretching transitions that arise from strong H-bonding interactions between the phenol OH group and the basic N site on benzimidazole/pyridine rings. The OH stretch transition in each model displays relatively strong absorption onsets near 2500 cm-1 with broad shoulders that extend asymmetrically to higher frequencies over hundreds of wavenumbers. In contrast, the deuterated isotopologues yield much weaker OD stretch transitions that appear symmetrically broadened. The spectral breadth and shape of the OD stretch transitions are ascribed to variations in OD stretch frequencies that arise from zero-point distributions in the proton donor-acceptor low-frequency soft mode vibration. The asymmetric structure of the OH stretch transitions is attributed to a set of combination bands between the OH stretch and a series of low-frequency H-bond soft modes. The spectra and modeling highlight the importance of OH stretch-soft mode couplings, which are thought to play important roles in PCET and proton transfer dynamics.


Comparison of five cell lines for the propagation of bovine viral diarrhea and infectious bovine rhinotracheitis viruses.
A comparative study was carried out to determine the susceptibility of 5 different cell types to bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) and infectious bovine rhinotracheitis (IBR) viruses. The cell systems used were swine testicle (ST), mink lung (ML), bovine turbinate (BT), porcine kidney (PK15) and equine dermal (ED) cells. For BVD virus, the titers obtained on day 8 post-infection were 10(1.13), 10(3.25), 10(4.13), 10(0.00) and 10(0.00), in ST, ML, BT, PK15 and ED cells, respectively. For the IBR virus, the titers obtained were 10(2.63), 10(8.5), 10(8.38), 10(3.00), and 10(4.63) in ST, ML, BT, PK15 and ED cells, respectively. This indicates, therefore, that BT and ML cells are optimal for the propagation of both BVD and IBR viruses and that ST, PK15, and ED cells are not very sensitive to these viruses.


Bevacizumab (avastin) and argon laser to treat neovascularization in corneal transplant surgery.
Two eyes with corneal neovascularization were treated with argon laser and bevacizumab (Avastin) to enhance transplant survival after penetrating keratoplasty. Before penetrating keratoplasty, pathologic corneal vessels were treated with argon laser coagulation and a simultaneous, subconjunctival bevacizumab injection. Four to 6 weeks after this treatment, corneal transplantation was performed, followed by an intraocular injection of bevacizumab. A marked reduction of corneal neovascularization was observed in both eyes after the combined argon laser coagulation and subconjunctival bevacizumab injection. No major bleeding from corneal vessels occurred during the recipients' cornea trephination. At the end of the transplantation, bevacizumab was injected into the anterior chamber, the posterior chamber, and subconjunctivally without any immediate side effects. No recurrence of pathologic vessels' spreading into the graft was observed. Both transplants have remained clear without signs of rejection for more than 6 months. The combination of argon laser coagulation and bevacizumab injections may be a promising tool in treatment of neovascularization in association with corneal transplant surgery. Antivascular endothelial growth factor substances may increasingly play a role in anterior segment surgery in the future.


Associations of Anti-MHC Class I-related Chain A (MICA) Antibodies with Renal Allograft Outcomes.
The association of anti-MHC class I-related chain A (MICA) and kidney allograft rejection has been reported. However, the associations of antibodies specific to donor MICA (dsMICA) and dsMICA levels with allograft outcome have not been elucidated. From November 2009 to June 2017, 125 sera samples from renal transplantation recipients with no HLA antibodies were screened for MICA antibodies. Patients with positive MICA antibody screening results and available residual donor DNA for MICA geno-typing underwent dsMICA analysis. Among these 125 sera samples, 19 were positive for MICA antibodies. dsMICA was positive in 5 out of the 12 analyzed sera samples. Neither MICA antibodies nor dsMICA were associated with acute rejection. However, interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) was significantly associated with MICA antibody positivity (OR=3.84, P=0.009). In addition, the MFI value of dsMICA was significantly higher in patients with IFTA II or III than in patients without IFTA II or III (P=0.009). The association of MICA antibodies and dsMICA with high grade IFTA (grade II or III) was suggested. The MICA antibody and dsMICA might be useful indicators of chronic renal damage.


Effect on Glucose Transport and Anion Exchange in Human Erythrocytes by Mechanical Force Factors.
The mechanical forces play an important role in both the normal physiology and the pathology of the cardiovascular system. It was observed that an increase in speed of rotary flow of the intact erythrocyte suspension resulted in increase in the rate of glucose entry across the erythrocyte membranes. The effects of osmotic stress and a membrane curvature-altering drug, chlorpromazine, on the glucose and anion transport were also shown. The decrease in the activation energy for glucose and anion transport according to Arrhenius plot for temperature dependence of membrane transport meant that thermodynamic barrier for transporter reorientation in the membranes was reduced. The data from the measurement of intrinsic fluorescence quench in ghosts indicated that the conformations of both glucose transport protein (GLUT1) and anion transport protein (band 3) in the erythrocyte membranes were affected by the mechanical force factors. After inhibition of anion transport, a modification of the response of glucose transport by the mechanical force was observed, which also indicates that there is an information linkage between GLUT1 and band 3 in the erythrocyte membranes.


In vitro cultivation of Trypanosoma congolense: the production of infective metacyclic trypanosomes in cultures initiated from cloned stocks.
Glossina morsitans were infected with two cloned stocks of T. congolense. The proboscides, foreguts and midguts of infected flies were then used as sources of trypanosomes in vitro at 28 degrees C in the presence of bovine dermal collagen explants. Cultures were established in which trypanosomes differentiated into adhering colonies of epimastigote forms which could then be maintained and subcultured in Eagle's Minimum Essential Medium supplemented with foetal calf serum for over 40 weeks. Within 2-4 weeks of establishment of each culture or subculture the epimastigote trypanosomes differentiated into metacyclic trypanosomes which could be harvested from supernatant medium at concentrations of 1 X 10(5)-3 X 10(6) parasites/ml. These organisms were used to induce the formation of local skin reactions in rabbits. Successful cultivation of infective trypanosomes appeared to depend on the initial adhesion of the parasites to the surface of the flask where they subsequently differentiated first into epimastigote and then to metacyclic forms.


Morphologic and cytoproliferative patterns of duodenal mucosa in two patients after long-term total parenteral nutrition: changes with oral refeeding and relation to intestinal resection.
The morphologic and cytoproliferative patterns of the duodenal mucosa of two adult patients, one of whom had a short bowel, were evaluated after more than 2 months of postoperative total parenteral nutrition and 2 and 12 months after the resumption of oral alimentation. Morphometric analysis was performed on routinely processed duodenal biopsies. Cell proliferation was evaluated by means of in vitro bromodeoxyuridine uptake. The results were compared with those obtained in five healthy controls. After parenteral nutrition, patients showed significantly lower villus height and crypt depth than those of controls and a normal bromodeoxyuridine labeling index. After 2 months of refeeding, villus and crypt returned to normal, and the labeling index was increased. After 12 months of oral refeeding, labeling index, villus height, and crypt depth were similar to those of controls. The patient with the short bowel showed a number of cells per unit length of villus and crypt significantly greater than those of the controls and of the patient who underwent shorter intestinal resection. In human duodenal mucosa, (1) hypoplasia develops after long-term total parenteral nutrition; (2) mucosal recovery occurs through an increased cell proliferation after oral refeeding; and (3) extensive small bowel resection determines the development of relative hyperplasia.


NIR luminescence and catalysis of multifarious salen type ytterbium complexes modulated by anions.
A series of five N,N'-bis(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)-1,3-propanediamine (H2L) ytterbium complexes, namely, [Yb(H2L)2(CH3OH)](ClO4)3 (1), [Yb(H2L)(NO3)3]2·CH2Cl2 (2), [Yb(H2L)2(NO3)]2(PF6)4·4H2O·2CH2Cl2 (3), [Yb(H2L)(OAc)2]2(PF6)2·4CH2Cl2 (4) and [Yb3L'3(OH)2Cl(H2O)5]Cl3·4H2O (5) (HL' = 2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzaldehyde), have been synthesized by reactions of H2L with multifarious Yb(iii) salts. X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that complex 1 shows a unique mononuclear structure constructed from two chelating H2L ligands in crossover mode. Complex 2 exhibits a dinuclear structure bridged by two H2L ligands. Complexes 3 and 4 possess two novel dinuclear structures linked by NO3(-) and OAc(-) anions, respectively. Complex 5 displays a trinuclear structure supported by three L' and two OH(-) anions. Noticeable, complex 3 can be transformed from 2 by introducing (NH4)(PF6). The PF6(-) counterion plays an essential role in steering the structural transformation. The anions dominate the final structures of 1-5. All complexes 1-5 exhibit NIR luminescence, which can be rationalized on the basis of different structural effects. Preliminary catalytic studies reveal that all complexes 1-5 are able to catalyze effectively a typical Henry reaction with good yields.


Social alienation of adolescents with obesity in classrooms: A multilevel approach.
Adolescents with obesity are more likely to be isolated by peers, but whether they also choose to disengage from their peers remains unclear. This study examined a sample of 646 adolescents between the age of 13 and 16 across 34 classrooms in 3 junior high schools in Taiwan, with data collected from May to June 2019. The sociometric network nomination method assessed peer relationships, such as unpopularity, unsociability, and alienation. Multilevel models were applied to explore the extent to which the class-level prevalence of overweight and obesity and peer support moderate the relationship between student-level obesity and peer relationships. Overall, students with obesity were more likely to experience unpopularity, unsociability, and alienation from their peers in classroom settings (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.904, 2.208, 2.777, p < .05). Regardless of their obesity status, students in high classroom peer support were less likely to report unsociability (AOR = 0.124, p < .05). No cross-level interactions were observed, indicating that students with obesity did not experience a reduction of peer rejection in high peer support classrooms. Neither did obese students in classrooms with higher rates of overweight and obesity. Students with obesity were more likely to experience interpersonal problems. Classroom peer support can increase peer acceptance for typical students but has no beneficial influence on adolescents with weight problems. Classroom peer support needs to be directed to become adequate support for students with obesity.


Effect of polyimide addition on mechanical properties of PMMA-based denture material.
The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of modifying polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) denture base material with polyimide (PI) on its flexural property and biocompatibility. Low molecular weight (1,500 g/mol) PI was synthesized and small amount of PI (0.4, 0.6, 0.8 and 1 wt%) was dispersed into the PMMA matrix. Three-point bending tests, scanning electron microscopy and thermal cycling were used to measure the mechanical properties, while MTT assay was used to evaluate the biocompatibility of the denture base material. The results showed that 0.6% addition of PI significantly increased flexural strength of PMMA denture base material by 13.5%, compared with the control group (p<0.05). Even after 5,000 hydrothermal cycling the reinforce effect still existed. However, when the PI content further increased, flexural strength of the denture base material decreased due to particle agglomeration. The MTT assay confirmed that the addition of PI did not change the biocompatibility of the PMMA denture base material. The present study suggested that blending polyimide in the proper proportion can be a potential method to strengthen the PMMA-based denture base material.


[Changes of TRGV genes and prognosis-related chemokine/receptor gene expressions in T cell lymphoma].
Objective To analyze the expressions of T cell receptor γ subfamily variable region I, II, and III genes (TRGV I~III) and prognosis-related chemokines and their receptor genes (CCL20, CCR6, CCL17, CCL22 and CCR4) in the peripheral blood of T-cell lymphoma (non-γδ T cell type) patients, and to investigate the correlations between γδ T cells and chemokines/receptors and their relevance to disease prognosis. Methods Peripheral blood samples were collected from 27 patients with T-cell lymphoma (non-γδ T cell type) and 9 healthy individuals as controls. Expressions of TRGV I~III subfamily genes and prognosis-related chemokines/receptors (CCL20/CCR6 and CCL17/CCL22/CCR4) in the peripheral blood of patients with T-cell lymphoma and normal controls were detected by quantitative real-time PCR. Results Compared with the normal controls, the expression levels of TRGV I-III subfamily genes of patients at the stages of initial onset, relapse/refractoriness and complete remission (CR) were significantly higher, and the expression patterns of TRGV subfamilies were changed. The expression levels of CCL22 and CCR4 in initial onset group and relapse/refractory group were significantly higher than that in normal controls, while CCL17 expression was significantly lower than that in normal controls. There were unique correlation patterns in the expressions of TRGV subfamily genes and chemokine/receptor genes in the patients at the stages of initial onset, CR and relapse/refractoriness. There are low expressions of TRGV II subfamilies in newly diagnosed and relapse/refractory T-cell lymphoma patients, and their expressions are elevated after treatment. Conclusion TRGV II subfamilies might be the T cell functional subset against T-cell lymphoma, and might be associated with the outcome of the disease. And the high expression of CCL22/CCR4 might be related to the pathogenesis of T-cell lymphoma.


Hydrogenolysis of Glycerol to Propylene Glycol: Energy, Tech-Economic, and Environmental Studies.
Hydrogenolysis of glycerol to propylene glycol represents one of the most promising technologies for biomass conversion to chemicals. However, conventional hydrogenolysis processes are often carried out under harsh H2 pressures and temperatures, leading to intensive energy demands, fast catalyst deactivation, and potential safety risks during H2 handling. Catalytic transfer hydrogenolysis (CTH) displays high energy and atom efficiency. We have studied a series novel solid catalysts for CTH of glycerol. In this work, detailed studies have been conducted on energy optimization, tech-economic analysis, and environmental impact for both processes. The key finding is that relatively less energy demands and capital investment are required for CTH process. CO2 emission per production of propylene glycol is much lower in the case of transfer hydrogenolysis. The outcome of this study could provide useful information for process design and implementation of novel hydrogenolysis technologies for other energy and environmental applications.


Epidermoid cyst in intrapancreatic accessory spleen: radiological findings including superparamagnetic iron oxide-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging.
It is crucial to differentiate between nonneoplastic and neoplastic cysts of the pancreas by images. An epidermoid cyst in intrapancreatic accessory spleen (IPAS) is a rare pancreatic cyst that should be managed nonsurgically as well as other nonneoplastic cyst. However, the imaging features of an epidermoid cyst in IPAS have not been organized. We therefore reviewed articles describing cases of epidermoid cyst in IPAS, with 6 additional cases to explore the imaging findings.


Biomarkers of liver status in heavy drinkers, moderate drinkers and abstainers.
Although a wide variety of biomarkers reflecting liver status are known to be influenced by excessive ethanol consumption, the dose-response relationships between ethanol intake and marker changes have remained less understood. Serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities, and ferritin and albumin protein concentrations were compared in a large population of heavy drinkers (105 men, 28 women), moderate drinkers (781 men, 723 women) and abstainers (252 men, 433 women), who were devoid of apparent liver disease. In heavy drinkers, serum GGT, AST, ALT, ferritin and albumin were all significantly higher than in moderate drinkers or abstainers (P < 0.001 for all comparisons). The highest incidences of elevated values were found for GGT (62%) followed by AST (53%), ALT (39%), ferritin (34%) and albumin (20%). Serum GGT (P < 0.001), ALT (P < 0.01) and ferritin (P < 0.05) in moderate drinkers were also higher than the levels observed in abstainers. When the study population was further divided into subgroups according to gender, significant differences between moderate drinkers and abstainers in GGT and ALT were noted in men whereas not in women. The data demonstrate that biomarkers of alcohol abuse and liver function may respond to even rather low levels of ethanol intake in a gender-dependent manner, which should be implicated in studies on the early-phase interactions of ethanol and the liver and in the definition of normal ranges for such biomarkers.


Pseudotype viruses bearing envelope antigens of Japanese isolates of human T-cell leukemia viruses type I.
We tried to transmit human T-cell leukemia virus type I (HTLV-I) into non-lymphoid cells and found that S+L- CCC cat cells were permissive for HTLV-I. Using these HTLV-positive cat cells, vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) pseudotypes bearing envelope antigens of Japanese isolates of HTLVs were prepared and their reactivities with human or rabbit serum were examined. Japanese HTLV2M, HTLV10Y, and HTLVMT-2 pseudotypes and American HTLVPL pseudotype were neutralized by sera of Japanese and American patients with adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) and rabbit antisera against HTLV. Each serum showed similar antibody titers against different pseudotypes. Thus, envelope antigens of four HTLVs that reacted with the human and rabbit sera were considered to belong to a single serotype.


Harnessing Autophagy to Overcome Antigen-Specific T-Cell Dysfunction: Implication for People Living with HIV-1.
Like other chronic viral infections, HIV-1 persistence inhibits the development of antigen-specific memory T-cells, resulting in the exhaustion of the immune response and chronic inflammation. Autophagy is a major lysosome-dependent mechanism of intracellular large-target degradation such as lipid and protein aggregates, damaged organelles, and intracellular pathogens. Although it is known that autophagy may target HIV-1 for elimination, knowledge of its function as a metabolic contributor in such viral infection is only in its infancy. Recent data show that elite controllers (EC), who are HIV-1-infected subjects with natural and long-term antigen (Ag)-specific T-cell protection against the virus, are characterized by distinct metabolic autophagy-dependent features in their T-cells compared to other people living with HIV-1 (PLWH). Despite durable viral control with antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV-1-specific immune dysfunction does not normalize in non-controller PLWH. Therefore, the hypothesis of inducing autophagy to strengthen their Ag-specific T-cell immunity against HIV-1 starts to be an enticing concept. The aim of this review is to critically analyze promises and potential limitations of pharmacological and dietary interventions to activate autophagy in an attempt to rescue Ag-specific T-cell protection among PLWH.


Effects of mot gene expression on the structure of the flagellar motor.
Direct freezing procedures have enabled us to visualize distinctive intramembrane particle ring structures in the cytoplasmic membranes of peritrichously flagellated bacteria by means of freeze-fracture electron microscopy. These structures were identified as flagellar motor components because their distribution matched that of flagella, and because they were absent in non-flagellated mutants of Escherichia coli. Particle rings were present in both the Gram-positive Streptococcus and the Gram-negative E. coli. In E. coli, a non-functional mocha operon produced flagellated but immotile cells lacking the particle rings. Simultaneous introduction of the motA and motB genes, led to recovery of both motility and the ring structures but neither gene alone was sufficient. The concomitant loss of the rings and motility is consistent with the ring particles having a central role in the flagellar motor.


The Relationship between Facility-Based Delivery and Infant Immunization in sub-Saharan Africa.
This study explored the relationship between facility-based delivery and infant immunizations in sub-Saharan Africa, controlling for economic development indicators. Publically available data were collected and imported into Stata 11.0 for descriptive, correlation, and regression analyses. Facility delivery was significantly associated with full vaccination and BCG immunization in children aged 12-23 months. Facility delivery was associated with full vaccination (p<.019), even after controlling for antenatal care usage, Gross National Income per capita, percent of the country's population residing in an urban setting, and percent of the population with at least a secondary education (β: 0.45 (95% CI: 0.08 - 0.81)). The relationship between facility delivery and immunization is significant, and robust enough to remain after controlling for economic and social indicators linked to both. These results suggest the benefits of facility delivery transcend the immediate survival benefit for mothers and their babies, and may serve as a gateway to further interactions with the healthcare system.


"West Syndrome-Infantile Spasms": A Pediatric Case Report.
West syndrome is a rare, severe form of epilepsy with onset in infancy and early childhood. It combines episodes of epileptic spasms that occur in a cluster, an abnormal pattern of interictal electroencephalogram termed as hypsarrhythmia and neuropsychomotor delay. The syndrome mainly results from brain dysfunction in the prenatal, perinatal, or postnatal period and focal lesions early in life may secondarily affect other sites in the brain presenting with some degree of developmental delay and mental retardation. The oral manifestations vary to a large extent presenting as generalized tooth wear, gingival enlargement, multiple white spot lesions, and a high-arched palate. This case report highlights the importance of early diagnosis, various clinical features, and management in a pediatric patient with West syndrome. How to cite this article: Goswami M, Sharma S. "West Syndrome-Infantile Spasms": A Pediatric Case Report. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2021;14(2):323-326.


Salivary gland pleomorphic adenoma in the Netherlands: A nationwide observational study of primary tumor incidence, malignant transformation, recurrence, and risk factors for recurrence.
Whereas salivary gland pleomorphic adenoma (SGPA) is the most common type of salivary gland tumor, little is known about its epidemiology because national cancer registries do not register this disease. To establish SGPA incidence trends, rates of secondary malignant transformation and recurrence and associated factors in the Netherlands. Data on incidence, epidemiology, secondary malignant transformation and recurrence were retrieved from the Dutch pathology registry (PALGA) for the years 1992, 1997, 2002, 2007, and 2012. Multivariate analysis was performed to discover the risk factors for recurrence. 3506 cases of SGPA were recorded implying an overall European standardized rate of 4.2-4.9 per 100,000 person-years. Our figures showed a female preponderance (1:1.43) with an annual 1% rise in female incidence (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2-1.8) and a bimodal age distribution in women (p<0.0001). The overall 20-year recurrence rate was 6.7%, and median time to first recurrence was 7years. Positive and uncertain resection margins and younger age at diagnosis were risk factors for recurrence, with odds ratios (ORs) of 4.62 (95%CI 2.84-7.51), 4.08 (95%CI 2.24-7.43), and 0.42 (95%CI 0.29-0.63) respectively. Tumor locations in the minor salivary glands had lower odds of recurrence than tumors in the parotid (OR 0.24; 95% CI: 0.07-0.77; p<0.016). Malignant transformation occurred in 0.15% of SGPAs (3.2% of recurrences). This first nationwide study clearly showed sex differences in SGPA epidemiology, possibly suggesting some underlying hormonal mechanism. Long-term recurrence risks were low, and secondary malignant transformation risks were very low.


An occurrence of avian influenza virus infection in laying chickens.
The isolation of avian influenza virus from chickens is reported for the first time in the United States since the fowl plague outbreak of 1929. The type-A virus was isolated from commercial Leghorn laying hens between 54 and 55 weeks old and involved three different farms in north-central Alabama. These flocks experienced up to 69% mortality and a severe decrease in egg production within a 14-day period.


Association of rs1219648 in FGFR2 and rs1042522 in TP53 with premenopausal breast cancer in an Iranian Azeri population.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the world. In Iran, the incidence of breast cancer is on the increase. We here studied the association of rs1219648 in FGFR2 and rs1042522 in TP53 and their interaction in development of early onset sporadic breast cancer in Iranian Azeri population to evaluate epistatic effects on the risk of mammary neoplasia. We genotyped the two polymorphisms in 100 women with early onset breast cancer and 100 healthy women by PCR-RFLP. Allele frequency differences were tested using chi2-test with 95% confident intervals. Our results indicated a statistically significant association (p<0.05) between rs1219648, but not rs1042522, and risk of breast cancer. We also found that the combination of FGFR2 major genotype and TP53 hetero genotype had protective effects against breast cancer , while the hetero allele of FGFR2 in combination with the minor genotype of TP53 was associated with a high risk. This study revealed an important crosstalk between two polymorphisms in FGFR2 and TP53 in development of breast cancer. These candidates risk variants should be further evaluated in studies with a larger sample size.


Noncompetitive enzyme-linked immunoassay for apolipoprotein B in serum.
We used a noncompetitive enzyme-linked immunoassay to measure apolipoprotein B (apo-B) concentration in human plasma. Goat anti-lipoprotein B immunoglobulins were adsorbed to the surface of polystyrene balls. After washing, this solid-phase antibody was incubated with antigen (plasma from normal or hyperlipoproteinemic fasting subjects), washed, and then incubated with peroxidase-labeled goat anti-lipoprotein B IgG. After a last washing, we measured the bound label, which provided a direct measurement of the antigen. Under optimized assay conditions, the minimum detectable concentration was 50 ng per assay. The assay may be used to measure apo-B in different lipoprotein fractions (low- or very-low-density) and yields values that compared favorably with those obtained by electroimmunoassay (r = 0.86). The assay offers several advantages over existing techniques: sensitivity, specificity, simplicity, avoidance of radioisotopes, and potential for use with monoclonal antibodies.


Complete chloroplast genome sequences of Myristicaceae species with the comparative chloroplast genomics and phylogenetic relationships among them.
Myristicaceae was widly distributed from tropical Asia to Oceania, Africa, and tropical America. There are 3 genera and 10 species of Myristicaceae present in China, mainly distributed in the south of Yunnan Province. Most research on this family focuses on fatty acids, medicine, and morphology. Based on the morphology, fatty acid chemotaxonomy, and a few of molecular data, the phylogenetic position of Horsfieldia pandurifolia Hu was controversial. In this study, the chloroplast genomes of two Knema species, Knema globularia (Lam.) Warb. and Knema cinerea (Poir.) Warb., were characterized. Comparing the genome structure of these two species with those of other eight published species, including three Horsfieldia species, four Knema species, and one Myristica species, it was found that the chloroplast genomes of these species were relatively conserved, retaining the same gene order. Through sequence divergence analysis, there were 11 genes and 18 intergenic spacers were subject to positive selection, which can be used to analyze the population genetic structure of this family. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all Knema species were clustered in the same group and formed a sister clade with Myristica species support by both high maximum likelihood bootstrap values and Bayesian posterior probabilities; among Horsfieldia species, Horsfieldia amygdalina (Wall.) Warb., Horsfieldia kingii (Hook.f.) Warb., Horsfieldia hainanensis Merr. and Horsfieldia tetratepala C.Y.Wu. were grouped together, but H. pandurifolia formed a single group and formed a sister clade with genus Myristica and Knema. Through the phylogenetic analysis, we support de Wilde' view that the H. pandurifolia should be separated from Horsfieldia and placed in the genus Endocomia, namely Endocomia macrocoma subsp. prainii (King) W.J.de Wilde. The findings of this study provide a novel genetic resources for future research in Myristicaceae and provide a molecular evidence for the taxonomic classification of Myristicaceae.


Swazi men's contraceptive knowledge, attitudes, and practices.
This study investigated Swazi men's contraceptive knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Thirty adolescent men, aged from 16 to 18, and 86 adult men from urban and rural areas participated in focus group interviews. Adult Swazi men indicated that men were the sole decision makers about sexual and reproductive issues. The number and gender of children remains socially significant in Swaziland. Adolescent men expressed contradictory notions in expecting girls to refuse unprotected sex but maintaining that men were the sole decision makers about sexual matters. They agreed that women should commence childbearing activities at the age of 21 or later. This finding holds some promise for enabling more Swazi women to use contraceptives at least until they have completed their schooling. Contraceptive services were not readily accessible to men in Swaziland.


Protein synthesis during lactation: no circadian variation in mammary gland and liver of rats fed diets varying in protein quality and level of intake.
Circadian changes in protein synthesis were studied in lactating rats fed diets varying in protein quality and feeding level. At parturition, rats previously fed a stock diet were assigned to semipurified diets supplying 23% protein. Two groups were fed wheat gluten (WG) or casein (C) ad libitum; a third group was pair-fed casein to consumption of the WG group (C-PF). At four different times on day 15 of lactation, protein synthesis was measured in vivo in mammary gland, liver and calf muscle with a large dose of L-[4-3H]phenylalanine. Pup weights at day 15 for dams fed WG, C and C-PF were 19.3 +/- 0.3, 33.9 +/- 0.5 and 27.2 +/- 0.5 g, respectively. No significant circadian variation in fractional synthesis rate (FSR) was observed in either mammary gland or liver. Higher variability in muscle FSRs precludes conclusions in regard to this tissue. However, protein quality and level of feeding both affected FSR. For rats fed WG, C and C-PF, FSRs were, respectively: 77 +/- 4, 116 +/- 6 and 64 +/- 3%/day in mammary gland; 67 +/- 4, 78 +/- 5 and 74 +/- 4%/day in liver; and 3.4 +/- 0.5, 6.7 +/- 1.0 and 4.0 +/- 0.8%/day in muscle. Absolute synthesis rates were, respectively: 584 +/- 60, 1743 +/- 148 and 663 +/- 58 mg/day in mammary gland; and 469 +/- 46, 970 +/- 72 and 702 +/- 62 mg/day in liver. The results confirm that dietary protein quality and feeding level affect protein synthesis rates in lactating rats and demonstrate that there is no circadian variation in protein synthesis in mammary gland and liver of lactating rats.


Desire to father a child and condom use: a study of young black men at risk of sexually transmitted infections.
To determine whether men's reported desire to father a child or their perception that someone wanted to have their child was associated with elevated rates of unprotected vaginal sex, we studied a sample of young Black men at high risk of sexually transmitted infection acquisition. Data were collected in clinics treating sexually transmitted infections in three southern U.S. cities. Men 15-23 years of age who identified as Black/African American and reported recent (past two months) penile-vaginal sex were eligible (N = 578). Logistic regression was used to examine whether desire to conceive a child (self and perception of partners' desire) predicted condom use, adjusting for age and whether they had previously impregnated someone. Their own level of desire to conceive a child was not significantly associated with unprotected vaginal sex or the proportion of times a condom was used. However, those who perceived higher level of someone wanting to conceive their child were 1.73 times more likely to report unprotected vaginal sex (P = .006) and 1.62 times more likely to report a lower proportion of times condoms were used (P = .019). Young Black men attending sexually transmitted infection clinics in the USA may forego condom use based on a perceived desire of their partners to become pregnant, putting themselves at risk for sexually transmitted infection acquisition and unplanned pregnancy. Findings provide initial support for the relevance of the idea that perceptions of women partners' desire to conceive may be a critical determinant of condomless sex.


Mechanism and stoichiometry of interaction of DnaG primase with DnaB helicase of Escherichia coli in RNA primer synthesis.
Initiation and synthesis of RNA primers in the lagging strand of the replication fork in Escherichia coli requires the replicative DnaB helicase and the DNA primase, the DnaG gene product. In addition, the physical interaction between these two replication enzymes appears to play a role in the initiation of chromosomal DNA replication. In vitro, DnaB helicase stimulates primase to synthesize primers on single-stranded (ss) oligonucleotide templates. Earlier studies hypothesized that multiple primase molecules interact with each DnaB hexamer and single-stranded DNA. We have examined this hypothesis and determined the exact stoichiometry of primase to DnaB hexamer. We have also demonstrated that ssDNA binding activity of the DnaB helicase is necessary for directing the primase to the initiator trinucleotide and synthesis of 11-20-nucleotide long primers. Although, association of these two enzymes determines the extent and rate of synthesis of the RNA primers in vitro, direct evidence of the formation of primase-DnaB complex has remained elusive in E. coli due to the transient nature of their interaction. Therefore, we stabilized this complex using a chemical cross-linker and carried out a stoichiometric analysis of this complex by gel filtration. This allowed us to demonstrate that the primase-helicase complex of E. coli is comprised of three molecules of primase bound to one DnaB hexamer. Fluorescence anisotropy studies of the interaction of DnaB with primase, labeled with the fluorescent probe Ru(bipy)3, and Scatchard analysis further supported this conclusion. The addition of DnaC protein, leading to the formation of the DnaB-DnaC complex, to the simple priming system resulted in the synthesis of shorter primers. Therefore, interactions of the DnaB-primase complex with other replication factors might be critical for determining the physiological length of the RNA primers in vivo and the overall kinetics of primer synthesis.


[Solid and papillary epithelial neoplasm of the pancreas. Report of 2 cases].
Solid and papillary epithelial tumor of the pancreas occurs mainly in young women and its main characteristic is the appearance of an abdominal mass which progressively increases in size. The radiologic, surgical and pathological correlation shows that it is a tumor of low grade malignancy with a favorable prognosis, after therapy and according to the location of the tumor. The authors report the clinical history of the first two confirmed cases of this entity in Panama, which occurred in 1985 and 1992, respectively, in women less than 25 years of age.


Interaction between eugenol-related compounds and radicals.
The radical modulating activity of 2-methoxy-4-(2-propenyl)phenol (eugenol), 2-t-butyl-4-methoxy-phenol (BHA), and their dimers (bis-eugenol, bis-BHA) was investigated, using ESR spectroscopy. Eugenol produced radicals in alkaline solutions, and enhanced the radical intensity of both sodium-L-ascorbate and sodium 5,6-benzylidene-L-ascorbate. BHA has similar, but slightly lower activity, and their dimers were inactive. Their ability to scavenge the superoxide anion (O2-), generated by hypoxanthine and xanthine oxidase reaction, was in the order of eugenol > bis-eugenol > BHA > bis-BHA. The relative radical intensity among these compounds was paralleled by their cytotoxic activity. The present study demonstrates that eugenol and BHA were very reactive with radicals and their reactivity was considerably reduced by dimerization. The applicability of the dimerized eugenol in dentistry was discussed.


[Nordic pole walking injuries--nordic walking thumb as novel injury entity].
Nordic pole Walking (NW) as trend sport is associated with beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Data regarding the injury and overload injury rates are pending. 137 athletes (74 % females, 53 +/- 12 years, weight 73 +/- 13 kg, height 169 +/- 11 cm) were prospectively ask using a two-sided questionnaire. Mean NW experience was 212.8 weeks with 2.9 +/- 1.8 hours/week. The overall exposure was 29 160 h. NW injury rate was 0.926/1000 h. Falls were evident in 0.24/1000 h. The upper extremity was involved more frequently (0.549/1000 h) than the lower extremity (0.344/1000 h). The most severe injury was a concomitant shoulder dislocation and luxation of the proximal interphalangeal joint of the index finger after a fall. The most frequent injury in NW was a distorsion of the ulnar collateral ligament of the thumb (0.206/1000 h) after fall. Shoulder injuries account for 0.171/1000 h with 0.069/1000 h shoulder dislocations. Distal radius fractures were rare as ankle sprains and shinspints (0.034/1000 h). Muscle injuries were encountered only at the gastrocnemius muscle (0.137/1000 h). No knee ligament injuries were noted. In 5%, NW injuries caused interruption of the performance, with all patients returning to sport within 4 weeks on the same level as before. Nordic Walking is safe. Most frequently, a Nordic walking thumb is encountered during a fall with the athlete holding on to the NW pole until the very last moment before the hand hits the ground with the pole handle as hypomochlium that forces the thumb into abduction and extension. Modifications of the grip construction as well as information of the athlete and behaviour changes may be preventive measures.


A large specific deterrent effect of arrest for patronizing a prostitute.
Prior research suggests that arrest, compared with no police detection, of some types of offenders does not decrease the chances they will reoffend. We assessed the specific deterrent effect of arrest for patronizing a street prostitute in Colorado Springs by comparing the incidence of arrest for clients of prostitutes first detected through public health surveillance with the incidence of rearrest for clients first detected by police arrest. Although these sets of clients were demographically and behaviorally similar, arrest reduced the likelihood of a subsequent arrest by approximately 70%. In other areas of the United States, arrest did not appear to displace a client's patronizing. Our results suggest that apprehending clients decreases their patronizing behavior substantially.


[Reversal of multidrug-resistance in human leukemia cell line K562/A02 by a cyclosporin D analogue PSC 833].
To explore the efficacy of PSC 833 on multidrug resistance (MDR) reversal and its mechanism. Human erythroleukemic cell line K562 and its doxorubicin-resistant counterpart K562/A02 were used in the study. Cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT assay, P-gp expression by direct immunofluorescence and mdr1 mRNA expression by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with beta-actin as internal control. Intracellular DNR retention was measured with flow cytometry. K562/A02 cells displayed high levels of mdr1 mRNA and P-glycoprotein and reduced DNR retention compared to their parental K562 cells. 1 micromol/L of PSC 833 had no effect on the levels of mdr1 mRNA and P-gp expression in K562/A02 cells (P > 0.05). PSC 833 conferred a dose-dependent increase on chemosensitivity of K562/A02 to DNR, and its effect was at least 3-fold more potent than that of CsA or Ver. PSC 833 could increase DNR retention in K562/A02 cells. A 100.9% restoration of intracellular DNR retention of the level of K562 cells was gained by PSC 833 at 1.0 micromol/L in K562/A02 cells, whereas only a 86.9% restoration of DNR retention was obtained by CsA at 10 micromol/L in the K562/A02 cells. No effect on DNR sensitivity and retention was found in K562 cells (P > 0.05). PSC 833 is at least 3 approximately 10 fold more potent than CsA or Ver with respect to MDR reversing activity, and it may function by inhibiting the function of P-gp and not reducing the levels of mdr1 mRNA and P-gp directly.


[Minimally invasive treatment of obesity with the intragastric balloon: a review].
Obesity is currently one of the most important problems in public health because of its prevalence and potential complications. The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends to decrease body weight by about 10% because this initial weight loss can significantly decrease the severity of obesity-associated risk factors. The intragastric balloon (IB) was developed as a temporary aid to obtain such a weight loss and to induce a modification of eating habits. Results are encouraging in terms of weight loss, and improvement of co-morbidity. The best results have been obtained in patients with a body mass index (weight/size2) comprised between 30 and 40 kg/m 2, but superobese patients may also be good candidates for IB therapy before bariatric surgery. Overall complications are estimated to develop in about 3% of cases.


A solid-phase microextraction method for the in vivo sampling of MTBE in common reed (Phragmites australis).
Phytoscreening of phytoremediation-based plantings is discussed as a promising monitoring tool in literature. We developed and applied an analytical procedure for the in vivo sampling of methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) in the common reed (Phragmites australis) from a phytoremediation site highly polluted with MTBE. The approach uses solid-phase microextraction (SPME) with the SPME fibre directly introduced into the aerenchyma of the plant stem. For optimising the analytical procedure and estimating the capability of the proposed method, laboratory tests on the microcosm scale and field studies over one vegetation period were carried out. Furthermore, the results of in vivo SPME sampling were compared with those obtained with the traditional approach for analysing plants using dynamic headspace analysis. The MTBE signals detected within the plants were also correlated with the concentration in the water phase. The discussion of results showed the feasibility of the proposed method for a qualitative phytoscreening of volatile organic compounds present in wetland plants.


Novel oximato-bridged platinum(II) di- and trimer(s): synthetic, structural, and in vitro anticancer activity studies.
Novel platinum complexes of trans geometry [PtCl(2){(Z)-R(H)C═NOH}(2)] [R = Me (1), Et (3)] and [PtCl(2){(E)-R(H)C═NOH}{(Z)-R(H)C═NOH}] [R = Me (2), Et (4)] as well as the classic trans-[PtCl(2)(R(2)C═NOH)(2)] [R = Me, Et] were reacted with an equivalent amount of silver acetate in acetone solution at ambient temperature, resulting in formation of unprecedented head-to-tail-oriented oximato-bridged dimers [PtCl{μ-(Z)-R(H)C═NO}{(Z)-R(H)C═NOH}](2) [R = Me (5), Et (7)], [PtCl{μ-(Z)-R(H)C═NO}{(E)-R(H)C═NOH}](2) [R = Me (6), Et (8)], and [PtCl(μ-R(2)C═NO)(R(2)C═NOH)](2) [R = Me (9), Et (10)], correspondingly. The dimeric species feature a unique six-membered diplatinacycle and represent the first example of oxime ligands coordinated to platinum via the oxygen atom. All complexes were characterized by elemental analyses, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, IR and multinuclear ((1)H, (13)C, and (195)Pt) NMR spectroscopy, as well as X-ray diffraction in the cases of dimers 6 and 9. Furthermore, the crystal and molecular structures of a trimeric oximato-bridged complex 11 comprising three platinum units connected in a chain way were established. The cytotoxicity of both dimers and the respective monomers was comparatively evaluated in three human cancer cell lines: cisplatin-sensitive CH1 cells as well as cisplatin-resistant SW480 and A549 cells, whereupon structure-activity relationships were drawn. Thus, it was found that dimerization results in a substantial (up to 7-fold) improvement of IC(50) values of (aldoxime)Pt(II) compounds, whereas for the analogous complexes featuring ketoxime ligands the reverse trend was observed. Remarkably, the novel dimers yielded no cross-resistance with cisplatin in SW480 cells, exhibiting up to 2-fold enhanced cytotoxicity in comparison with the CH1 cell line and thereby possessing a promising potential to overcome resistance toward platinum anticancer drugs. The latter point was also confirmed by investigating the potency of apoptosis induction in the case of one monomer as well as one dimer; the investigated complexes proved to be strong apoptotic agents which could induce cell death even in the cisplatin-resistant SW480 cell line.


[Behavioral pharmacological action of Ca-4-(3,5-dihydroxy-3-methylpenthylamido) butyrate (mevalonic GABA, MV-GABA)].
The behavioral pharmacological effects of Ca-4-(3,5-dihydroxy-3-methylpenthylamido) butyrate (mevalonic-GABA, MV-GABA), a new GABA derivative were studied in comparison with those of Ca-hopantenate (HOPA) in mice. MV-GABA had no effect on the general behavior and electric shock-induced fighting behavior. The dosage of MV-GABA which caused locomotor hypoactivity produced an impairment of the rotarod performance. MV-GABA inhibited the hyperactivity induced by a dopamine (DA) agonist (methamphetamine) and acetylcholine (ACh) antagonists (scopolamine and atropine) at a dose which did not affect locomotor activity in normal mice. MV-GABA prolonged the pentobarbital-Na-induced sleeping time, and it prolonged the latencies until convulsion and death after administration of strychnine. MV-GABA and HOPA antagonized the electroconvulsive shock-induced amnesia in the passive avoidance response of mice. These results suggest that MV-GABA has effects on the central nervous systems, in particular, ACh and DA neural systems. The actions of MV-GABA were qualitatively similar to those of HOPA except for the effect on the DA neural system.


Role of adjuvant therapy after resection of colorectal cancer liver metastases.
Liver resection is the goal of treatment strategies for liver-confined metastatic colorectal cancer. However, after resection the majority of patients will experience recurrence. Chemotherapy seems to improve outcomes compared with surgery alone. We reviewed the data of the role of adjuvant chemotherapy after resection of liver- confined metastatic colorectal cancer. Optimal regimens and sequencing of chemotherapies when liver resection is an option are unclear. Some suggest that resectable liver metastases, in the absence of high-risk features, should begin with surgery and consideration given to adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery. If high-risk features are present, most physicians prefer a short course of systemic preoperative chemotherapy. Perioperative therapy and regional therapy with hepatic arterial infusion (HAI) both increase disease-free survival (DFS) when compared with surgery alone. In unresectable disease, consideration should be given to systemic chemotherapy with or without a biologic agent or HAI with systemic therapy. If the disease becomes resectable, adjuvant treatment should follow surgery. Adjuvant chemotherapy is usually FOLFOX, but HAI combined with systemic chemotherapy is also an option. The role of adjuvant treatment post-liver resection should not be viewed in isolation but rather in the context of prior treatment, surgical preference, and individual patient characteristics. Perioperative therapy and regional therapy have both shown an increase in DFS. Conducting randomized trials examining the role of adjuvant chemotherapy has been difficult because of rapidly changing chemotherapies.


Microguided Endodontics: Accuracy of a Miniaturized Technique for Apically Extended Access Cavity Preparation in Anterior Teeth.
The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of guided endodontics in mandibular anterior teeth by using miniaturized instruments. This technique is designed to treat teeth with pulp canal calcifications and narrow roots by using a printed template that guides a bur to the calcified root canal. Sixty sound mandibular anterior teeth were used in 10 mandibular models. Preoperative surface and cone-beam computed tomography scans were matched by using the coDiagnostix software. Virtual planning was performed for the access cavities, and templates were used for guidance. The templates were produced by a three-dimensional printer. Two operators performed the access cavities. A postoperative cone-beam computed tomography scan was superimposed on the virtual plan, and the deviation was measured in 3 dimensions and angles. Descriptive statistical analyses were performed, and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for both operators and each measured aspect. The deviations between the planned- and prepared-access cavities were low, with means ranging from 0.12 to 0.13 mm for different aspects at the base of the bur and 0.12 to 0.34 mm at the tip of the bur. The mean of angle deviation was 1.59°. A considerable overlap of the 95% confidence intervals indicated no significant difference between the operators. The mean treatment time, including planning and preparation, was approximately 10 minutes per tooth. Microguided endodontics provides an accurate, fast, and operator-independent technique for the preparation of apically extended access cavities in teeth with narrow roots such as mandibular incisors.


Secretory IgA as a vaccine carrier for delivery of HIV antigen to M cells.
HIV transmission and spread in the host are based on the survival of the virus or infected cells present in mucosal secretions, and the virus' ability to cross the epithelial barrier and access immune target cells, which leads to systemic infection. Therefore, HIV-specific immunity at mucosal sites is critical for control of infection. Although mucosal delivery would ensure the best onset of protective immunity, most candidate vaccines are administered through the parenteral route. Remarkably, secretory IgA (SIgA) interacts specifically with mucosal microfold (M) cells present in gut-associated lymphoid tissues. Here we evaluate the feasibility of delivering chemically bound p24HIV antigen via SIgA into the intestinal mucosae in mice. After oral administration, p24-SIgA complexes are quickly delivered into the tissue and selectively captured by CX3CR1(+) dendritic cells. Oral immunization with p24gag linked to SIgA (p24-SIgA) adjuvanted with E. coli heat labile enterotoxin (HLT) elicits both humoral and cellular immune responses against p24 at the systemic and mucosal levels and induces efficient protection against rectal challenge with a recombinant vaccinia virus encoding gag. This is the first study which underscores the remarkable potential of SIgA to serve as a vaccine carrier for an HIV antigen in mucosal administration targeting the gastrointestinal environment.


Chitosan-based hyaluronan hybrid polymer fibre scaffold for ligament and tendon tissue engineering.
To establish medical use of tissue engineering technology for ligament and tendon injuries, a scaffold was developed which has sufficient ability for cell growth, cell differentiation, and mechanical properties. The scaffold made from chitosan and 0.1 per cent hyaluronic acid has adequate biodegradability and biocompatibility. An animal experiment showed that the scaffold has less toxicity and less inflammation induction. Furthermore, in-vivo animal experiments showed that the mechanical properties of the engineered ligament or tendon had the possibility to stabilize the joint. It was shown that newly developed hybrid-polymer fibre scaffold has feasibility for joint tissue engineering.


Efficacy and Safety of the Japanese Herbal Medicine Daikenchuto (DKT) in Elderly Fecal Incontinence Patients: A Prospective Study.
This study has investigated the efficacy and safety of daikenchuto (DKT) in elderly patients with fecal incontinence (FI). This was an open-label, single-arm study (UMIN Clinical Trials Registry as UMIN000030252). DKT at 15 g/day was orally administered to patients for 28 days. Patients over 70 years old with FI, who scored over 11 in the Mini-Mental State Examination, are capable of oral intake, and provided written informed consent, were enrolled in this study. Changes in abdominal pain and bloating, Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCIS), FI Quality of Life Scale (FIQLS), maximum resting pressure (MRP), FI frequency, and stool form were evaluated. In total, 21 patients (1 requested to withdraw) were enrolled in this study. The compliance rate was 95.2%, and no serious adverse drug reactions were observed. Improvements in terms of abdominal pain and bloating were observed at 2 weeks (p < 0.01). In the CCIS, the total score, leakage of solid stool, and leakage of liquid stool improved after 2 weeks (p < 0.01), while pad use and lifestyle alteration improved after 4 weeks (p < 0.05). Improvement in FIQLS was also observed at 2 weeks (p < 0.01). MRP demonstrated significant improvement at 2 weeks (p < 0.01). Eleven (52.4%) patients had no FI during the study period. DKT improves MRP and quality of life in patients with abdominal symptoms; moreover, it is considered to be a safe and effective drug for elderly patients with FI.


Solution conformation of an RNA hairpin loop.
The hairpin conformation adopted by the RNA sequence 5'GCGAUUUCUGACCGCC3' has been studied by one- and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy. Exchangeable imino spectra in 60 mM Na+ indicate that the hairpin has a stem of six base pairs (indicated by boldface type) and a loop of three nucleotides. NOESY spectra of nonexchangeable protons confirm the formation of the stem region. The duplex has an A-conformation and contains an A.C apposition; a G.U base pair closes the loop region. The stem nucleotides have C3'-endo sugar conformations, as expected of an A-form duplex, whereas the three loop nucleotides adopt C2'-endo sugar puckers. Stacking within the loop, C8 upon the sugar of U7, stabilizes the structure. The pH dependence of both the exchangeable and nonexchangeable NMR spectra is consistent with the formation of an A+.C base pair, protonated at the N1 position of adenine. The stability of the hairpin was probed by using absorbance melting curves. The hairpin structure with the A+.C base pair is about +2 kcal/mol less stable in free energy at 37 degrees C than the hairpin formed with an A.U pair replacing the A+.C pair.


Does method of birth make a difference to when women resume sex after childbirth?
To investigate the timing of resumption of vaginal sex and assess associations with method of birth, perineal trauma and other obstetric and social factors. Prospective pregnancy cohort study of nulliparous women. Melbourne, Australia. A total of 1507 nulliparous women recruited in early pregnancy (≤24 weeks). Women were recruited from six public hospitals. Data from hospital records and self-administered questionnaires at recruitment and 3, 6 and 12 months postpartum were analysed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression. Resumption of vaginal sex. Sexual activity was resumed earlier than vaginal sex, with 53% resuming sexual activity by 6 weeks postpartum, and 41% attempting vaginal sex. By 8 weeks a majority of women had attempted vaginal sex (65%), increasing to 78% by 12 weeks, and 94% by 6 months. Compared with women who had a spontaneous vaginal birth with an intact perineum, women who had a spontaneous vaginal birth with an episiotomy (adjusted odds ratio 3.43, 95% confidence interval 1.9-6.2) or sutured perineal tear (adjusted odds ratio 3.18, 95% confidence interval 2.1-4.9) were more likely not to have resumed vaginal sex by 6 weeks postpartum. Similarly, women who had an assisted vaginal birth or caesarean section had raised odds of delaying resumption of sex. Most women having a first birth do not resume vaginal sex until later than 6 weeks postpartum. Women who have an operative vaginal birth, caesarean section or perineal tear or episiotomy appear to delay longer.


Constructing appropriate bioprinting regulations: the ethical importance of recognising a liminal technology.
This article provides an analysis of bioprinting personalised medical device technology and its ethical challenges to regulation and research ethics. I argue the inclusion of bioprinting applications within existing regulatory frameworks does not adequately address the technologies disruption to the traditionally siloed activities of research and treatment. Using the conceptual framework of liminality, I offer a meaningful way to engage with this technology and address some identified concerns with how it will be categorised and the appropriate recognition of its evidentiary thresholds. I demonstrate these concerns through the exploration of limited conventional research methodologies tasked with the production of generalisable knowledge, specifically population-based evidence that is derived from Randomised Clinical Trials. I use Australian regulatory amendments introduced in 2021 as an example of current regulatory trajectories and highlight why I believe this approach to be insufficient. The significance of this argument will be to demonstrate the disruption of bioprinting applications to current approaches in medical policy, and how various jurisdictions are enacting regulation that is not fit for purpose.


Lost in Translation: Regulation of ABCG2 Expression in Human Embryonic Stem Cells.
The expression and function of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter ABCG2 have been studied for two decades in both adult and cancer stem cells. However, this important ABC transporter has not been well characterized in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs). Studies designed to understand the role of ABCG2 in hESCs are still in their initial stages. Several recent reports on expression patterns of the ABCG2 gene in hESCs contain contradictory results at both the mRNA and protein levels. In this review, we provide possible explanations for these discrepancies in ABCG2 expression patterns. We discuss micro-RNA-mediated regulatory roles in controlling ABCG2 mRNA stability and translation, which are associated with hESC pluripotency and differentiation.


Simple, short peptide derivatives of a sulfonylindolecarboxamide (L-737,126) active in vitro against HIV-1 wild type and variants carrying non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor resistance mutations.
Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) active against NNRTI-resistant mutants were obtained by introducing two methyl groups at positions 3 and 5 of the benzenesulfonyl moiety of L-737,126 (1) and coupling one to three glycinamide/alaninamide units to its carboxyamide function. In cell-based assays, the new derivatives showed activities against HIV-1 wild type and NNRTI-resistant mutants [Y181C, K103N-Y181C, and triple mutant (K103R, V179D, P225H) highly resistant to efavirenz] superior to that of the parent indole derivative 1.


Decreased Expression of PACSIN1 in Brain Glioma Samples Predicts Poor Prognosis.
Gliomas are the most severe brain tumours with a poor prognosis. Although surgery, postoperative radiotherapy and chemotherapy can improve the survival rate of glioma patients, the prognosis of most glioma patients is still poor. In recent years, the influence of gene-targeted therapy on gliomas has been gradually discovered, and intervening the occurrence and development of brain gliomas from the perspective of the gene will significantly improve treatment prognosis. Protein Kinase C and Casein Kinase Substrate in Neurons 1 (PACSIN1) is a member of the conserved peripheral membrane protein family in eukaryotes. Improper expression of PACSIN1 can lead to neurological diseases such as Huntington's disease and schizophrenia. However, its relationship with tumours or even gliomas has not been explored. The study aims to explore PACSIN1 as a prognostic factor that can predict overall survival (OS) for gliomas. We collected the data from CGGA, TCGA, GEO databases and the pathological glioma tissue specimens from 15 clinical glioma patients surgically resected. The differential expression of PACSIN1 in various clinical indicators, the genes related to PACSIN1 expression, the prognostic value of PACSIN1 and the functional annotations and pathway analysis of differently expressed genes (DEGs) were analysed. The results revealed that PACSIN1 had low expression levels in grade IV, IDH1 wild-type and 1p/19q non-codel group gliomas, and PACSIN1 was considered a mesenchymal molecular subtype marker. PACSIN1 expression is positively correlated with OS in all gliomas and it was found that PACSIN1 influenced the occurrence and development of gliomas through synaptic transmission. The PACSIN1 expression is negatively correlated with the malignant degree of gliomas and positively associated with the OS, indicating that PACSIN1 would play an essential role in the occurrence and development of gliomas and might be a potential new biomarker and targeted therapy site for gliomas.


5-Benzoylamino-3-bromo-4-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4,5-dihydroisoxazole-5-carboxylic acid.
The title compound, C18H15BrN2O5, a promising N-protected alpha-amino acid, was synthesized directly from an unusual bromo dipole and a 4-(arylmethylene)oxazolone. The crystal packing of the title compound is a racemic mixture. Peculiar graph-set motifs driven by the most important hydrogen bonds are described.


Splenosis. A diagnosis to be considered.
The term splenosis applies to the autotransplanted splenic tissue resulting from seeding in the context of past splenic trauma or surgery. We report a 42-year-old man with a history of splenectomy observed for an incidentally found retrovesical mass thought to be an ectopic testicle. The abdominal laparotomy revealed multiple focuses of pelvic splenosis. As splenosis can be diagnosed through specific imaging studies one should always consider it in differential diagnosis of a mass discovered years after splenic surgery or trauma.


The ribosomal E site at low Mg2+: coordinate inactivation of ribosomal functions at Mg2+ concentrations below 10 mM and its prevention by polyamines.
Under standard conditions (Mg2+/150 mM NH4+) ribosomes can quantitatively participate in tRNA binding at Mg2+ concentrations of 12 to 15 mM. The overall poly(U)-directed Phe incorporation and the extent of tRNA binding to either P, E or A sites decrease in a parallel manner when the Mg2+ concentration is lowered below 10 mM. At 4 mM the inactivation amounts to about 80%. The coordinate inactivation of all three binding sites is accompanied by an increasing impairment of the ability to translocate A-site bound AcPhe-tRNA to the P site. The translocation efficiency is already reduced at 10 mM Mg2+, and is completely blocked at 6-8 mM. The severe inactivation seen at 6 mM Mg2+ vanishes when the polyamines spermine (0.6 mM) and spermidine (0.4 mM) are present in the assay; tRNA binding again becomes quantitative, the total Phe synthesis even exceeds that observed in the absence of polyamines by a factor of 4. In the presence of polyamines and low Mg2+ (3 and 6 mM) two essential features of the allosteric three-site model (Rheinberger and Nierhaus, J. Biol. Chem. 261, 9133 (1986] are demonstrated. 1) Deacylated tRNA is not released from the P site, but moves to the E site during the course of translocation. 2) Occupation of the E site reduces the A site affinity and vice versa (allosteric interactions between E and A sites). The quality of an in vitro system for protein synthesis can be assessed by two criteria. First, the incubation conditions must allow a near quantitative tRNA binding. Secondly, protein synthesis should proceed with near in vivo rate and accuracy. The 3 mM Mg2+/NH4+/polyamine-system seems to be the best compromise at present between these two requirements.


Purification and properties of zinc-metallophospholipase C from Pseudomonas fluorescens.
Phospholipase C produced by Pseudomonas fluorescens, isolated as a laboratory contaminant, has been purified to apparent homogeneity by ammonium sulphate fractionation, anion-exchange and size-exclusion chromatographies. The apparent molecular mass of the purified polypeptide was 39.5 kDa. Purified preparations of phospholipase C were used to characterize its enzymic properties and to obtain amino acid sequence of the N-terminus of the molecule. The P. fluorescens phospholipase C hydrolysed PtdEtn, PtdCho and PtdSer (PtdEtn > PtdCho >> PtdSer) and was relatively thermostable. The enzyme was inactivated in the presence of chelating agent o-phenanthroline and the activity restored after addition of zinc. Properties of this enzyme and in particular the requirement for zinc ions for the activity, revealed similarity with the well characterised Bacillus cereus phospholipase C. Similarities with other bacterial and mammalian enzymes reported to be related to the B. cereus type are discussed.


The association between perchlorate in drinking water and height and weight of children and adolescents in Southwest China: a retrospective cross-sectional study.
To investigate the association between the concentration of perchlorate in drinking water and the height and weight of children and adolescents in Sichuan Province. Perchlorate in the drinking water of 24 counties in Sichuan Province from 2021 to 2022 was detected and analyzed, 66 drinking water samples were collected, and the content of perchlorate in drinking water during the wet season and dry season was detected by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography in series. The linear mixed effect model was used to estimate the relationship between perchlorate in drinking water and the height and weight of 144,644 children and adolescents, and 33 pieces of local average wage data were used as confounding factors for quality control. After controlling the age, gender, and local economic situation, we found that the concentration of perchlorate in drinking water increased by 10 μg/L is associated with a 1.0 cm decrease in height and a 1.6 kg decrease in weight in children and adolescents (p < 0.05). The concentration of perchlorate in drinking water may be negatively correlated with the height and weight of children.


Detection of trisomies 13, 18 and 21 using non-invasive prenatal testing.
The clinical performance of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in the Down's syndrome screening based on 1,901 pregnant women in a Chinese hospital was investigated. This was a retrospective analysis of NIPT study in singleton pregnancy (n=1,901). The NIPT test is offered routinely as a prenatal screening test for common fetal aneuploidies, including trisomy 13 (T13), T18 and T21 to pregnant women with risk factors of one or more anomalies. Maternal peripheral blood (5 ml) was collected in an ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) tube at a gestational age of 12+0 to 32+6 weeks. The samples were delivered at -80°C to the certified Shenzhen BGI Clinical Laboratory Center. Sequencing data were analyzed using a proprietary algorithm. Women with positive NIPT results were recommended to receive karyotype analysis and amniotic fluid puncture for further validation. The cases were followed up for 56 days after delivery. All the patients underwent ultrasound examination, and the majority of patients (91.16%) showed normal findings. In contrast, 136 (7.15%) showed ultrasound anomalies. The most common anomaly was echogenic heart focus (n=80), accounting for 4.21% of the patients. Twenty-two cases were classified by the NIPT to be positive for the T21 (n=15), T18 (n=5) and T13 (n=2), respectively, while the others (n=1,879) were classified to be NIPT negative cases. Among these cases, the fetal outcome data were obtained in 1,483 cases, while 396 were lost to follow-up. The majority of cases (75.47%) were normal at birth. Neonatal death was observed in 1 case. Five pregnant women decided termination of pregnancy despite the presence of NIPT negativity. In conclusion, NIPT technique is feasible for the prenatal screening of T18 and T21 with higher sensitivity and specificity compared with conventional methods.


Molecular cloning and characterization of the ribosomal RNA genes of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus.
1. The analysis of total protoscolex DNA and some rDNA recombinants of Echinococcus granulosus by restriction endonuclease mapping and hybridization to rDNA probes indicated the complex organization of the ribosomal RNA genes and that some repeat units are larger than 15 kb. The non-transcribed spacer can be up to 13 kb in length in some repeat units. 2. Restriction site polymorphism was detected mainly in the nontranscribed spacer regions although some polymorphism was also observed in the 28S rRNA coding region. 3. On the basis of Southern blot hybridization using EcoRI-digested genomic DNA, we conclude that the repeat units containing an extra EcoRI site are present almost in the same proportion as the repeat units without the extra EcoRI site in the 28S rRNA coding region.


Effect of dexamethasone on glutamine synthetase and glial fibrillary acidic protein in normal and transformed astrocytes.
The effect of dexamethasone on astrocyte differentiation was investigated in vitro, using cultures of normal and transformed astrocytes. The astrocyte-enriched proteins glutamine synthetase (GS) and glial fibrillary acidic (GFA) protein were used as markers of astrocyte differentiation. Ethanol, the vehicle for dexamethasone, decreases GS activity and increases GFA protein concentration in cultures of the established cell line U251MG and in the majority of cultures of transformed astrocytes derived from varying grades of astrocytoma. Ethanol has no effect on primary cultures of astrocytes derived from immature rat brain. Dexamethasone increases GS activity and decreases GFA protein concentration in cultures of U251MG and a grade IV astrocytoma-derived culture, in comparison with ethanol control. Our results show differential effects of two factors on cell-specific proteins in normal and transformed astrocytes.


The use of [7alpha-3H]- and [7alpha, 7beta-3H]cholesterol in the enzymic assay of cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase.
A tritium release method is described for following the enzymic conversion of cholesterol to 7alpha-hydroxycholesterol. Incubations of rat liver subcellular preparations (containing microsomes) with [7alpha-3H]cholesterol or [7alpha,7beta-3H]cholesterol release the labeled hydrogen in the 7alpha position as 3H2O which, after counting, allows for the determination of the fraction of exogenous cholesterol converted to 7alpha-hydroxycholesterol. These findings document those recently reported by Van Cantfort, Renson, and Gielen (1975. Eur J. Biochem. 55:23). Analysis of incubation mixtures containing both [4-14C]cholesterol and either [7alpha-3H] or [7alpha,7beta-3H]cholesterol demonstrate that one atom of hydrogen (from the 7alpha position) is incorporated into H2O for every molecule of exogenous cholesterol that is converted to 7alpha-hydroxycholesterol. In the case of [7alpha-3H]cholesterol no label is retained by the product. With [7alpha,7beta-3H]cholesterol, one atom is released as 3H2O and one is retained by the product in the 7beta position. Microsomal incubations with [7alpha,7beta-3H]cholesterol were performed, followed by the acetylation of the steroid fractions with [14C]acetic anhydride. If intermixing of exogenous with endogenous cholesterol were complete during the enzymic reaction, one would expect the 3H: 14C ratio of the isolated cholesterol acetate to be four times that observed in the 7alpha-acetoxycholesterol acetate. Average values of 4.23 in one series and 4.03 in a second series indicate that intermixing was sufficiently complete to use the tritium release method as an indicator of mass conversion.


Dynamics extracted from fixed cells reveal feedback linking cell growth to cell cycle.
Biologists have long been concerned about what constrains variation in cell size, but progress in this field has been slow and stymied by experimental limitations. Here we describe a new method, ergodic rate analysis (ERA), that uses single-cell measurements of fixed steady-state populations to accurately infer the rates of molecular events, including rates of cell growth. ERA exploits the fact that the number of cells in a particular state is related to the average transit time through that state. With this method, it is possible to calculate full time trajectories of any feature that can be labelled in fixed cells, for example levels of phosphoproteins or total cellular mass. Using ERA we find evidence for a size-discriminatory process at the G1/S transition that acts to decrease cell-to-cell size variation.


A line-scanning chromatic confocal sensor for three-dimensional profile measurement on highly reflective materials.
We developed a practical Line-Scanning Chromatic Confocal Sensor (LSCCS) that can generate three-dimensional (3D) points with up to 32 000/s with a high-precision motion device. An optical route of line-scanning confocal spectroscopy is designed and verified by simulation. The LSCCS is composed of a white laser source, a chromatic confocal optics, and a self-developed spectrometer. The chromatic confocal optics consists of a slit, a chromatic lens (dispersive objective lens), and a beam splitter, and the spectrometer consists of an adjustable slit, a collimating lens, a blazed grating, a focusing lens, a CMOS, and an image processing circuit. The slit and the chromatic lens are designed for a line focus, and the polarizing beam splitter is selected to maximize the white light power collected by the CMOS. The motion device is made to realize the full-field 3D scanning. The key algorithms involved are developed to accurately restore the peak wavelength that includes the position information of the measured surface from the collected spectral image. Theoretical analysis and simulation showed that the corresponding resolutions in Z (depth), X (direction of optical fibers layout), and Y (direction of line-scanning) directions are 0.6, 10, and 5 µm, with a line length of 8 mm and a depth field of 2.4 mm. Experimental results showed that the sensor produces a measurement accuracy of 0.886 µm and a scanning speed of 90 fps. It is of great significance for the accurate measurement of the 3D profile and thickness on the highly reflective materials in the fields of optics, semiconductors, or micromechanics.


α-Synuclein and ALPS motifs are membrane curvature sensors whose contrasting chemistry mediates selective vesicle binding.
Membrane curvature sensors have diverse structures and chemistries, suggesting that they might have the intrinsic capacity to discriminate between different types of vesicles in cells. In this paper, we compare the in vitro and in vivo membrane-binding properties of two curvature sensors that form very different amphipathic helices: the amphipathic lipid-packing sensor (ALPS) motif of a Golgi vesicle tether and the synaptic vesicle protein α-synuclein, a causative agent of Parkinson's disease. We demonstrate the mechanism by which α-synuclein senses membrane curvature. Unlike ALPS motifs, α-synuclein has a poorly developed hydrophobic face, and this feature explains its dual sensitivity to negatively charged lipids and to membrane curvature. When expressed in yeast cells, these two curvature sensors were targeted to different classes of vesicles, those of the early secretory pathway for ALPS motifs and to negatively charged endocytic/post-Golgi vesicles in the case of α-synuclein. Through structures with complementary chemistries, α-synuclein and ALPS motifs target distinct vesicles in cells by direct interaction with different lipid environments.


NMReDATA: Tools and applications.
The nuclear magnetic resonance extracted data (NMReDATA) format has been proposed as a way to store, exchange, and disseminate nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) data and physical and chemical metadata of chemical compounds. In this paper, we report on analytical workflows that take advantage of the uniform and standardized NMReDATA format. We also give access to a repository of sample data, which can serve for validating software packages that encode or decode files in NMReDATA format.


Immunohistochemical studies of ovarian and testicular teratomas with antiserum to glial fibrillary acidic protein.
Twenty cases of ovarian or testicular teratomas were studied with a sensitive peroxidase-antiperoxidase (PAP) method utilizing an antibody to glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Positive staining was restricted to the perikaryon, to extensively distributed neuroglial fibrils, or to ependymal lining cells in 13 of 20 teratomas studied. Positively stained cells were also occasionally observed in the choroid plexus, thus indicating the possibility that such cells also retain the capability of producing GFAP. GFAP-positive material was also found in the tumour cells of an undifferentiated ovarian teratocarcinoma; this tumour was believed to represent an ovarian glioma. It is concluded that the PAP method represents a sensitive and valuable histochemical tool which should be further explored to characterize a functional basis of normal and neoplastic cells. Findings are of particular interest in the "germ cell tumours" in which multiple differentiation patterns may be expressed.


Investigating the microbiome of house dust mites in South Korea.
Understanding the house dust mites (HDMs) microbiome is crucial due to its potential effects on the development of allergic diseases. In 1998, our laboratory collected Dermatophagoides farinae and D. pteronyssinus from beds in a Korean household and began cultivating these HDMs. Our laboratory has been actively investigating several topics about HDMs in recent years, including the bacterial and fungal microbiome and their interactions, as well as the impact of the HDM microbiome on airway inflammation. To study the D. farinae microbiome, we employed high-throughput sequencing of the 16S rDNA amplicons. The results revealed that the two most abundant bacteria were Enterococcus faecalis and Bartonella spp. In contrast, we found almost no bacteria in D. pteronyssinus. By inoculating bacteria to HDMs, we found that D. farinae is more susceptible to bacteria than D. pteronyssinus. This susceptibility was associated with the presence of certain fungal species in D. pteronyssinus. Additionally, we have recently made efforts to produce HDMs with reduced levels of symbiotic bacteria. We believe that standardizing and controlling the microbiome in HDMs are crucial steps for the future development and improvement of allergic immunotherapies.


Efficiency of Stem Cell (SC) Differentiation into Insulin-Producing Cells for Treating Diabetes: a Systematic Review.
Over the recent years, the use of stem cells has provided a new opportunity to treat various disorders including diabetes. Stem cells are unspecialized cells with a capacity for self-renewal and differentiation into more specialized cell types. Many factors contribute to the differentiation of SCs and thus play an important role in regulating the fate of stem cells. Accordingly, a wide range of protocols has been used to differentiate SCs to insulin-producing cells but the effectiveness of SC differentiation varies. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the results obtained from different studies on SC differentiation for higher efficacy to treat diabetes. This search was done in PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), and Scopus using keywords "insulin-producing cell (IPC)," "pancreatic B cell," "insulin-secreting cell," "stem cell," "progenitor cells," "mother cell," and "colony-forming unit." Among more than 3646 papers, 32 studies were considered eligible for more evaluations. The obtained results indicated that most of the studies were performed on the mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from different tissues as compared with other types of SCs. Different evaluations of in vitro studies as well as animal models supported their role in the recovery of diabetes. In the present review, we summarize and discuss recent advances in increasing the efficiency of SC differentiation using different materials, but despite the promising results of this systematic review, further studies are needed to assess the efficiency and safety of transplantation of these cells in diabetes recovery.


The endocrine disruptor atrazine accounts for a dimorphic somatostatinergic neuronal expression pattern in mice.
It has now been established that a large number of man-made and natural chemicals are capable of interfering with the action of natural hormones. In this category "endocrine disruptors" such as the herbicide atrazine, when administered at ecological low doses (1 or 100 microg/kg per day) from gestational day 14 to postnatal day 21, provided a clear dimorphic neurodegenerative pattern in some brain areas of the domestic mouse (Mus musculus). Indeed, the high concentration (100 microg/kg per day) with respect to the low concentration (1 microg/kg per day) induced relevant neuronal damage in extrahypothalamic sites, such as the cortical and striatal areas in both sexes. Marked alterations in other areas, including the hippocampal and hypothalamic nuclei, were mostly typical of the female. At the neuronal level, the neuropeptide somatostatin, specific for the secretion of growth hormone, seemed to be a major target of atrazine effects, as demonstrated by evident subtype2,3,5 receptor mRNA differences of this neuropeptide, at least for the first two subtypes. In particular, a very strong (p < 0.001) upregulation of subtype2 expressing neurons was detected in female hypothalamic areas, specifically the suprachiasmatic nucleus, whereas a similar downregulatory trend was reported for some extrahypothalamic areas such as the striatum. Interestingly, very strong upregulatory and downregulatory actions were detected for neurons expressing subtype3 in male hypothalamic and amygdalar regions and in the cortical and hippocampal areas, respectively. Overall, it appears that these first neurotoxicological effects of atrazine are very likely linked to dimorphic expression patterns of specific somatostatin subtypes in discrete but key hypothalamic and extrahypothalamic areas of Mus musculus.


An Insulin-Sensitive Circular RNA that Regulates Lifespan in Drosophila.
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are abundant and accumulate with age in neurons of diverse species. However, only few circRNAs have been functionally characterized, and their role during aging has not been addressed. Here, we use transcriptome profiling during aging and find that accumulation of circRNAs is slowed down in long-lived insulin mutant flies. Next, we characterize the in vivo function of a circRNA generated by the sulfateless gene (circSfl), which is consistently upregulated, particularly in the brain and muscle, of diverse long-lived insulin mutants. Strikingly, lifespan extension of insulin mutants is dependent on circSfl, and overexpression of circSfl alone is sufficient to extend the lifespan. Moreover, circSfl is translated into a protein that shares the N terminus and potentially some functions with the full-length Sfl protein encoded by the host gene. Our study demonstrates that insulin signaling affects global circRNA accumulation and reveals an important role of circSfl during aging in vivo.


Impact of homicide by a psychiatric patient on forensic psychiatrists: national survey.
To explore the experiences and support needs of consultant forensic psychiatrists, whose patients had committed homicide while under their care. We circulated a survey to all forensic psychiatrists in the UK, through the Royal College of Psychiatrists, asking about their experiences of a homicide by a patient under their care. Respondents were invited to discuss their experiences further in a structured telephone interview and themes were identified from these discussions. Data were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively. One-third of the 86 respondents had had at least one patient who had committed a homicide while under their care. Of these, over three-quarters (78%) reported that the homicide had a significant impact on their personal life, professional life and/or mental/physical health. For some respondents, the impact was severe and long term. Respondents generally felt that they would have been helped by receiving more support in the aftermath of the homicide. Greater recognition is needed of the impact on treating psychiatrists of homicide by a patient and more support is needed for affected clinicians. Further research is necessary, including the effects of such events on colleagues in other specialties and examination of the costs versus the benefits of mandatory inquiries after homicides.


Electrospray-Differential Mobility Hyphenated with Single Particle Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry for Characterization of Nanoparticles and Their Aggregates.
The novel hyphenation of electrospray-differential mobility analysis with single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ES-DMA-spICPMS) was demonstrated with the capacity for real-time size, mass, and concentration measurement of nanoparticles (NPs) on a particle-to-particle basis. In this proof-of-concept study, the feasibility of this technique was validated through both concentration and mass calibration using NIST gold NP reference materials. A detection limit of 10(5) NPs mL(-1) was determined under current experimental conditions, which is about 4 orders of magnitude lower in comparison to that of a traditional ES-DMA setup using a condensation particle counter as detector. Furthermore, independent and simultaneous quantification of both size and mass of NPs provides information regarding NP aggregation states. Two demonstrative applications include gold NP mixtures with a broad size range (30-100 nm), and aggregated gold NPs with a primary size of 40 nm. Finally, this technique was shown to be potentially useful for real-world samples with high ionic background due to its ability to remove dissolved ions yielding a cleaner background. Overall, we demonstrate the capacity of this new hyphenated technique for (1) clearly resolving NP populations from a mixture containing a broad size range; (2) accurately measuring a linear relationship, which should inherently exist between mobility size and one-third power of ICPMS mass for spherical NPs; (3) quantifying the early stage propagation of NP aggregation with well-characterized oligomers; and (4) differentiating aggregated NPs and nonaggregated states based on the "apparent density" derived from both DMA size and spICPMS mass.