High Variability of Observed Weight Bearing During Standing Foot and Ankle Radiographs.
Weight-bearing radiographs are a critical component of evaluating foot and ankle pathology. An underlying assumption is that patients are placing 50% of their body weight on the affected foot during image acquisition. The accuracy of weight bearing during radiographs is unknown and, presumably, variable, which may result in uncertain ability of the resultant radiographs to appropriately portray the pathology of interest. Fifty subjects were tested. The percentage body weight through the foot of interest was measured at the moment of radiographic image acquisition. The subject was then instructed to bear "half [their] weight" prior to the next radiograph. The percentage body weight was calculated and compared to ideal 50% weight bearing. The mean percentage body weight in trial 1 and 2 was 45.7% ± 3.2% ( P = .012 compared to the 50% mark) and 49.2% ± 2.4%, respectively ( P = .428 compared to 50%). The mean absolute difference in percentage weight bearing compared to 50% in trials 1 and 2 was 9.3% ± 2.3% and 5.8% ± 1.8%, respectively ( P = .005). For trial 1, 18/50 subjects were within the "ideal" (45%-55%) range for weight bearing compared to 32/50 on trial 2 ( P = .005). In trial 1, 24/50 subjects had "appropriate" (>45%) weight bearing compared to 39/50 on trial 2 ( P = .002). There was substantial variability in the weight applied during radiograph acquisition. This study raises questions regarding the assumptions, reliability, and interpretation when evaluating weight-bearing radiographs. Level III, comparative study.


Remembering the big game: social identity and memory for media events.
Two studies examined how memories are formed around championship sporting events, which we classify as media events. The first study employed a test-retest methodology to assess how fans of a sport recall a championship sporting event. The second study examined how fans of specific sports teams recalled two championship sporting events in which their team either won or lost. Of particular interest was the emergence of a collective memory within fan communities. We assessed memory for the event itself (event memory), with an emphasis on the emergence of a collective memory, and memory for the context in which one experienced the event (personal circumstance memory). In contrast to fans of a sport more generally, fans of a particular team recalled events involving their team with detail, converged on collective memories, and provided personal circumstance memories that met the criteria for flashbulb memories. We discuss these results in the context of social identities and the elements involved in narratives of media events. Different types of fandom, our measure of social identity, uniquely influenced the collective memories formed for essential and ancillary elements of narratives surrounding championship sporting events.


Different pharmacological characteristics of structurally similar benzylisoquinoline analogs, papaverine, higenamine, and GS 389, on isolated rat aorta and heart.
In the present study, we compared the pharmacological properties of structurally similar benzylisoquinoline compounds, papaverine, higenamine, and GS 389, using isolated rat aorta and atrial preparations. The three benzylisoquinoline compounds, concentration dependently, relaxed phenylephrine (3 microM) induced contraction of rat aortic rings, with the rank order of potency being higenamine > papaverine > GS 389. They also relaxed high K+ (60 mM) induced contraction, with the rank order of potency being papaverine > GS 389 >> higenamine. The relaxation was not modified by the presence of endothelium. To assess whether these compounds directly interfere with Ca2+ influx, the effects of these compounds on Ca(2+)-induced contraction in Ca(2+)-free media were examined. Among the three compounds, papaverine most strongly inhibited Ca(2+)-induced contraction of both K+ stimulated and phenylephrine-stimulated aorta. Higenamine was least potent in inhibition of Ca(2+)-induced contraction in high K+ depolarized aorta. In atrial tissues, lower concentrations of papaverine increased spontaneous beats and isometric tension, whereas above 30 microM its action was reversed. GS 389 decreased heart rate without affecting the contractility. On the other hand, higenamine concentration dependently increased both heart rate and isometric tension, as well as cyclic AMP levels in atrial tissues as a result of beta-receptor activation. Cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP dependent phosphodiesterases from rat atrial and ventricular tissue homogenates were inhibited by papaverine and GS 389, but not by higenamine. These results suggest that calcium antagonistic action of these compounds is at least in part responsible for vasodilation action, but not for cardiac action.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Relationship between extra-alveolar time and atopy in the prognosis of the replantation of avulsed teeth.
The aim of this in vivo study was to evaluate the correlation between the occurrence of root resorption in avulsed and replanted teeth, extra-alveolar time, and the possible influence of Th2 immunologic profile, represented by patient's atopy and its influence in the prognosis of the tooth. This study evaluated the presence or absence of root resorption in 57 avulsed and replanted teeth. The replantation technique and endodontic treatments were performed following the International Association of Dental Trauma guidelines. Follow-up of the replanted teeth included monthly clinical and radiographic examinations during 1 year. The patient's medical examination, including the personal and family allergic history, in conjunction with the skin prick test based the evaluation of patient's atopy. Of the 37 teeth of atopic patients, 33 (89.2%) teeth did not present root resorption. Of these, 27 (72.9%) had an extra-alveolar time of <1 hour and 6 (16.2%) had an extra-alveolar time >1 hour. Four (10.8%) teeth presented root resorption and an extra-alveolar period of time >1 hour. These results showed the importance of the extra-alveolar time and the predominantly Th2 immunologic profile, represented by atopic patients, that suffered replantation after dental avulsion in a 1-year follow-up.


A Comparative Study on Changes in Total and Differential Milk Cell Counts, Activity, and Expression of Milk Phagocytes of Healthy and Mastitic Indigenous Sahiwal Cows.
Milk somatic cell counts (SCCs) have been used as a gold standard to monitor mammary health as well as an indicator of raw milk quality. The present work was undertaken to compare the changes in the milk SCC, milk differential leukocyte counts (DLCs), phagocytic activity (PA) of milk neutrophils and macrophages (by nitroblue tetrazolium assay), extracellular trap formation (PicoGreen assay) and mRNA expression of various genes in milk neutrophils and macrophages (reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction), and milk plasma cortisol concentration (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) in healthy, subclinical mastitis (SCM), and clinical mastitis (CM) cows. Milk was collected from healthy, SCM, and CM cows grouped based on their SCCs and California mastitis test with eight cows in each group. Milk SCC was estimated by SCC counter, and DLC was done after staining the milk slide under a microscope at 100×. Total SCCs in healthy, SCM, and CM cows were on an average of 128.30, 300.3, and 694.40 × 103 cells/mL, respectively. Milk DLCs indicated a lower percentage of macrophage and lymphocytes and a higher (p < 0.05) percentage of neutrophils in SCM and CM compared to healthy milk. The percentage of mature segmented neutrophils was lower, whereas immature band neutrophils were higher (p < 0.05) in the SCM and CM groups as compared to healthy cows. The viability, in vitro PA, and extracellular trap formation of neutrophils were lower (p < 0.05) in SCM and CM milk samples as compared to healthy samples. However, the PA of macrophage remained unchanged in all the studied groups. The relative mRNA expression of Toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR4), myeloperoxidase, and interleukin 2α (IL-2α) receptor (CD25) were minimum in healthy samples and increased (p < 0.05) with the progress of mammary inflammation. However, CD44 decreased (p < 0.05), and CD62L remained unchanged in mastitis as compared to healthy cows. Plasma cortisol concentrations were higher (p < 0.05) in mastitis as compared to healthy cows and were negatively correlated with the number of milk macrophages and the functions of milk phagocytes. Estimation of total SCC, milk DLC, and activity of milk phagocytes is essential for effective control and prevention of incidence of mastitis in dairy cows.


A reproducible two-step culture system for isolated primary mouse ovarian follicles as single functional units.
A reproducible two-step culture system for isolated mouse ovarian follicles smaller than 100 microm (type 3a follicles) was designed. First, isolated follicles were grown in single droplets of alpha-minimal essential medium (MEM) without (deoxy)ribonucleosides at a lower concentration of fetal bovine serum (FBS; 1%) for 6 days with mechanical prohibition of thecal cell attachment. Growing follicles reaching at least 100 microm were transferred to alpha-MEM medium enriched with a higher concentration (5%) of FBS to allow attachment and were cultured subsequently for an additional 12 days. Overall, more than 85% of the follicles survived the first culture step, and oocyte growth and granulosa cell proliferation had increased by 25% (P < 0.05). Follicle survival at Day 18 was related to initial follicle diameters at isolation. Average meiotic maturation rates and estrogen secretion were lower compared to those of cultures starting with early preantral follicles of 100-130 microm. Although reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed the presence of LH-receptor mRNA in thecal cells, an exogenous androstenedione replacement resulted in an increase of estrogen production, suggesting substrate insufficiency. The time needed to grow from early preantral stages to in vitro ovulation is strongly dependent on the initial follicle diameter at isolation. Morphological characteristics of cultured follicles were suggestive for combined transforming growth factor beta deficiencies during in vitro culture.


Novel Clinical Therapies and Technologies in Dialysis Vascular Access.
The hemodialysis population continues to grow. Although procedures for dialysis have existed for >60 years, significant challenges with vascular access to support hemodialysis persist. Failure of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) to mature, loss of AVF and graft patency, thrombosis, and infection hinder long-term access, and add extra health care costs and patient morbidity. There have been numerous innovations over the last decade aimed at addressing the issues. In this study, we review the literature and summarize the recent evolution of drug delivery, graft development, minimally invasive AVF creation, and stem-cell therapy for hemodialysis access.


Heat-Related Illness Among Latinx Child Farmworkers in North Carolina: A Mixed-Methods Study.
Children as young as ten are legally hired for farm work. In North Carolina, many of these hired children are Latinx; they often work long hours during hot and humid summer conditions. Heat-related illness occurs along a continuum of severity ranging from heat cramps and rashes to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be fatal. The literature on the negative health effects of occupational heat exposure is growing; however, few studies have examined this exposure and health outcomes among child agricultural workers. To understand Latinx child farmworkers' experiences of working in heat, we conducted in-depth interviews (n = 30). To estimate the prevalence of heat-related illness symptoms and associated factors, we conducted survey interviews (n = 165). Heat-related illness is common among these child farmworkers. While children often understand the dangers of working in heat, work organization often prevents their taking precautions. Formal workplace protections to prevent heat-related illness are limited.


Perspective for Future Medicine: Multidisciplinary Computational Anatomy-Based Medicine with Artificial Intelligence.
Multidisciplinary computational anatomy (MCA) is a new frontier of science that provides a mathematical analysis basis for the comprehensive and useful understanding of "dynamic living human anatomy." It defines a new mathematical modeling method for the early detection and highly intelligent diagnosis and treatment of incurable or intractable diseases. The MCA is a method of scientific research on innovative areas based on the medical images that are integrated with the information related to: (1) the spatial axis, extending from a cell size to an organ size; (2) the time series axis, extending from an embryo to post mortem body; (3) the functional axis on physiology or metabolism which is reflected in a variety of medical image modalities; and (4) the pathological axis, extending from a healthy physical condition to a diseased condition. It aims to integrate multiple prediction models such as multiscale prediction model, temporal prediction model, anatomy function prediction model, and anatomy-pathology prediction model. Artificial intelligence has been introduced to accelerate the calculation of statistic mathematical analysis. The future perspective is expected to promote the development of human resources as well as a new MCA-based scientific interdisciplinary field composed of mathematical statistics, information sciences, computing data science, robotics, and biomedical engineering and clinical applications. The MCA-based medicine might be one of the solutions to overcome the difficulties in the current medicine.


Aortic occlusion in patients treated with Cisplatin-based chemotherapy.
Cisplatin-based chemotherapy is one of the most common chemotherapy regimens that is complicated by thromboembolic events. A wide spectrum of vascular events exists, including venous and arterial thromboses of varying severity and location. However, total occlusion of the aorta is very unusual. We describe two patients with atherosclerotic vascular disease who developed occlusion of the abdominal aorta after cisplatin-based chemotherapy.


[Brazilian Protocol for Sexually Transmitted Infections 2020: pelvic inflammatory disease].
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is a topic included in the Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines for Comprehensive Care for People with Sexually Transmitted Infections, published by the Brazilian Ministry of Health in 2020. Pelvic inflammatory disease is an acute infection of the upper female genital tract due to canalicular spread of endogenous cervicovaginal microorganisms, in particular sexually transmitted organisms. Standing out among the etiological agents involved are Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The most important sequels are chronic pelvic pain, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Clinical diagnosis is the most important practical approach. Antibiotic treatment should start immediately upon clinical suspicion. The article contains guidance for health service managers and health professionals on diagnostic tests, treatment, follow-up, counseling, notification, handling of sexual partnerships and special populations. In view of increased availability of the molecular biology technique in Brazil, C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae screening is recommended as a disease prevention strategy.


Venous thrombosis as a side effect of tamoxifen treatment.
We report what we believe to be an infrequent but noteworthy complication of antiestrogen therapy with tamoxifen. Seven patients developed venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism within 6 months of starting treatment. Guidelines similar to those employed in younger women treated with anovulatory drugs would appear indicated.


Prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors in Chinese Jing compared with Mulao populations.
*These authors contributed equally to this work. At present, they work at the Hezhou People's Hospital, Hezhou, China.To retrospectively compare differences in the prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors between the Chinese Jing and Mulao populations. Subjects of Jing and Mulao ethnicities were surveyed using stratified randomized sampling. Demography, diet and lifestyle data were collected using standardized questionnaires. Several anthropometric parameters, blood pressure (BP) levels and serum lipid concentrations were obtained. Data from 915 Jing and 911 Mulao subjects aged ≥ 35 years were included. Diastolic BP levels and prevalence of hypertension were lower, but prevalence of isolated systolic hypertension was higher, in the Jing compared with the Mulao population. Prevalence of hypertension in the age 60-69 years, body mass index (BMI) > 24 kg/m(2), and smoker subgroups was lower in the Jing compared with the Mulao populations. Prevalence of hypertension correlated with age, cigarette smoking, triglyceride level, waist circumference, sodium intake and total dietary fibre in the Jing population; hypertension prevalence also correlated with age, triglyceride level, BMI, total fat, sodium intake and total dietary fibre in the Mulao population (unconditional logistic regression analyses). Prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors were different between the two ethnic minorities, which might result from the combined effects of differences in their geographic, dietary, lifestyle, and genetic backgrounds.


Validation of Prognosis Value of Cumulative Prognostic Scores Based on Serum High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Albumin Levels in Patients with Colorectal Cancer.
Aims: Noninvasive tools for the prognosis of colorectal cancer (CRC) are in urgent need. Lipids and proteins have been studied in CRC several years, thus a prognostic indicator based on preoperative serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and serum albumin (ALB) levels (HA score) in CRC patients and to compare the correlation with survival to that of the Glasgow prognostic score. Patient and methods: In the present study, the patient characteristics, clinicopathological factors, and the level of pre-treatment serum markers (HDL-C, ALB, CEA and CA19-9) were analyzed retrospectively in 248 patients with CRC. Results: In HA score, patients with reduced HDL-C and decreased ALB levels were allocated a score of 2, those with only one of these abnormalities were assign as score 1, and those with neither of these abnormalities were allocated a score of 0. The cut-off value of HDL-C and ALB were defined as median. Among these, the distribution of the HA score were 66 patients of score 2 (26.61%), 112 patients of score 1 (45.16%), and 70 patients of score 0(28.23%). The prognostic significance of the HA score was then determined by Univariate and multivariate cox hazards in CRC. Univariate analysis revealed that tumor invasion depth, lymph node metastasis, metastasis, TNM stage, CEA, CA19-9, HA score and GPS had a significant association with the OS and DFS of CRC, furthermore HA score (P<0.001, P<0.001) TNM stage(P<0.001, P<0.001) were retained as the prognostic factors that were associated with OS and DFS according to multivariate analyses. Conclusions: These results suggest that the overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were shorter in CRC patients with a high level of HA score. Thus, our study has proposed that the evaluation of preoperative serum HA score may be used to predict OS and DFS of CRC.


Secular trends in body composition and frequency of overweight and obesity in boys aged 3-18 from Krakow, Poland, within the last 30 years (from 1983 to 2010).
The aim of this study was to examine the changes in body composition (fatness and muscle and bone mass) and BMI in three cohorts of boys living in Krakow, Poland, over the last 30 years, and to assess how overweight and obesity frequencies have developed over the period. The anthropological survey was conducted in 2010, and comprised 1863 boys from Krakow aged 3-18 years. The analysis compared the latest measurements of selected skinfold thicknesses, BMI, total body muscle mass and bone mass with the results of surveys from 1983 (N=1934) and 2000 (N=2323). The frequency of overweight and obesity was assessed for the last survey series, and their trends determined for the years 1983-2000 and 2000-2010. The analysis of fat tissue distribution showed that the boys from the 2010 cohort, as compared with those examined in 2000, had a higher trunk adiposity, as manifested by greater thickness of subscapular and suprailiac skinfold thicknesses, and boasted a larger muscle mass and lower bone mass. The survey results also showed that, from 1983 to 2000, the percentage of overweight boys increased slightly (from 11.69% to 12.48%), whereas the frequency of obesity did not change. Over the last decade, the percentage of overweight people has increased to 15.94%, and the frequency of obesity has doubled, equalling 4.94% in 2010. The last decade has seen a minor trend in boys towards increased trunk adiposity, muscle mass, BMI and prevalence of overweight and obesity, and a slight decrease in bone mass.


UV Irradiation of Skin Enhances Glycolytic Flux and Reduces Migration Capabilities in Bone Marrow-Differentiated Dendritic Cells.
A systemic immunosuppression follows UV irradiation of the skin of humans and mice. In this study, dendritic cells (DCs) differentiating from the bone marrow (BM) of UV-irradiated mice had a reduced ability to migrate toward the chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 21. Fewer DCs also accumulated in the peritoneal cavity of UV-chimeric mice (ie, mice transplanted with BM from UV-irradiated mice) after injection of an inflammatory stimulus into that site. We hypothesized that different metabolic states underpin altered DC motility. Compared with DCs from the BM of nonirradiated mice, those from UV-irradiated mice produced more lactate, consumed more glucose, and had greater glycolytic flux in a bioenergetics stress test. Greater expression of 3-hydroxyanthranilate 3,4-dioxygenase was identified as a potential contributor to increased glycolysis. Inhibition of 3-hydroxyanthranilate 3,4-dioxygenase by 6-chloro-dl-tryptophan prevented both increased lactate production and reduced migration toward chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 21 by DCs differentiated from BM of UV-irradiated mice. UV-induced prostaglandin E2 has been implicated as an intermediary in the effects of UV radiation on BM cells. DCs differentiating from BM cells pulsed in vitro for 2 hours with dimethyl prostaglandin E2 were functionally similar to those from the BM of UV-irradiated mice. Reduced migration of DCs to lymph nodes associated with increased glycolytic flux may contribute to their reduced ability to initiate new immune responses in UV-irradiated mice.


Influence of sitting posture on anterior buttock sliding during wheelchair propulsion of hemiplegic stroke patients.
Miyasaka H, Nakagawa Y, Okazaki H, Sonoda S. Influence of sitting posture on anterior buttock sliding during wheelchair propulsion of hemiplegic stroke patients. Jpn J Compr Rehabil Sci 2023; 14: 54-59. This study investigated the influence of different sitting postures on wheelchair propulsion ability. The subjects were stroke patients who scored at least 2 points on the Stroke Impairment Assessment Set for abdominal muscle strength and trunk verticality and 3 points for non-paralytic side lower-limb muscle strength. Moreover, the patients were divided by their everyday wheelchair propulsion posture: Lean on Back Support (LBS); n = 8), those who leaned their back against the back support; and non-LBS (n = 11), those who moved their back away from the back support. For the wheelchair propulsion method, straight one-hand, one-leg propulsion was used on the non-paralyzed side for 10 m, followed by turning around a target 3 m ahead on each of the paralyzed and non-paralyzed sides. We then compared the propulsion times, number of propulsions, and difference in length from the front end of the patella on the non-paralyzed side to the front end of the seat surface (buttock sliding distance) between the groups. The buttock sliding distance was significantly shorter in the non-LBS group than in the LBS group in the paralyzed and non-paralyzed side turning tasks (p < 0.05). Propulsion times, number of propulsions, and grip strength did not differ significantly between the groups. Even in patients with good trunk function, propulsion while leaning against the back support can easily result in anterior buttock sliding, leading to a secondary risk of injury. These results suggest that it is necessary to provide guidance on the propulsion posture and seating to hold the trunk vertically to minimize anterior sliding during propulsion.


[The transitional bridge in early implant loading: history, design, installation, perspectives].
The progress made in implantology since the work of Pr. Branemark has led to the development of early functional implant loading. This satisfies one of our patients' primary goals: restoration of fixed dentition as quickly as possible. This article describes the history, design, installation technique, and perspectives for the transitional prosthesis, the most important component of this early loading concept.


Choice of nonpharmacological pain therapies by ethnically diverse older adults.
This study compared nonpharmacological pain therapies used by ethnically diverse older adults with recommendations of family physicians and identified factors associated with nonpharmacological pain therapies use. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, 281 participants in four ethnic groups (European Americans, Hispanics, African-Americans, Afro-Caribbeans) with chronic pain were surveyed. Binary logistic regression analyses were employed to determine associated factors. Nonaquatic exercise and physical therapy were most frequently recommended by physicians, and nonaquatic exercise was most commonly used by participants. Lower pain levels predicted use of nonaquatic exercise, and ethnicity predicted use of prayer to manage chronic pain. Future research should examine barriers to use of psychological treatments and assess the value of combined physical and psychological treatments.


Proteomic and functional analyses reveal pleiotropic action of the anti-tumoral compound NBDHEX in Giardia duodenalis.
Giardiasis, a parasitic diarrheal disease caused by Giardia duodenalis, affects one billion people worldwide. Treatment relies only on a restricted armamentarium of drugs. The disease burden and the increase in treatment failure highlight the need for novel, safe and well characterized drug options. The antitumoral compound NBDHEX is effective in vitro against Giardia trophozoites and inhibits glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. Aim of this work was to search for additional NBDHEX protein targets. The intrinsic NBDHEX fluorescence was exploited in a proteomic analysis to select and detect modified proteins in drug treated Giardia. In silico structural analysis, intracellular localization and functional assays were further performed to evaluate drug effects on the identified targets. A small subset of Giardia proteins was covalently bound to the drug at specific cysteine residues. These proteins include metabolic enzymes, e.g. thioredoxin reductase (gTrxR), as well as elongation factor 1B-γ (gEF1Bγ), and structural proteins, e.g. α-tubulin. We showed that NBDHEX in vitro binds to recombinant gEF1Bγ and gTrxR, but only the last one could nitroreduce NBDHEX leading to drug modification of gTrxR catalytic cysteines, with concomitant disulphide reductase activity inhibition and NADPH oxidase activity upsurge. Our results indicate that NBDHEX reacts with multiple targets whose roles and/or functions are specifically hampered. In addition, NBDHEX is in turn converted to reactive intermediates extending its toxicity. The described NBDHEX pleiotropic action accounts for its antigiardial activity and encourages the use of this drug as a promising alternative for the future treatment of giardiasis.


Dabigatran causing severe acute kidney injury in a patient with liver cirrhosis.
Anticoagulant-related nephropathy (ARN), a significant but frequently undiagnosed problem in patients receiving anticoagulation, is found to be associated with increased renal morbidity and all-cause mortality. While ARN is mainly associated with warfarin use, recent case reports suggest that it may also occur in patients taking direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC). We report a patient who had a history of alcoholic liver cirrhosis and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, and received dabigatran 110 mg twice daily for 1 year. He presented with gross hematuria and severe acute kidney injury with an international normalized ratio of 4.09. Dabigatran was stopped and he was put on temporary hemodialysis support. His renal function gradually improved when the hematuria subsided. Renal biopsy later confirmed the presence of red blood cell casts inside the renal tubules with features of IgA nephropathy. Finally, his renal function returned back to baseline level. As DOAC has been increasingly used nowadays for the treatment of various thromboembolic diatheses, regular monitoring of renal function is warranted, especially in patients with underlying glomerular diseases and coagulopathy such as chronic liver diseases.


Dementia registries around the globe and their applications: A systematic review.
Patient registries are valuable tools helping to address significant challenges in research, care, and policy. Registries, well embedded in many fields of medicine and public health, are relatively new in dementia. This systematic review presents the current situation in regards to dementia registries worldwide. We identified 31 dementia registries operating on an international, national, or local level between 1986 and 2016. More than half of the registries aimed to conduct or facilitate research, including preclinical research registries and registries recruiting research volunteers. Other dementia registries collected epidemiological or quality of care data. We present evidence of practical and economic outcomes of registries for research, clinical practice and policy, and recommendations for future development. Global harmonization of recruitment methods and minimum data would facilitate international comparisons. Registries provide a positive return on investment; their establishment and maintenance require ongoing support by government, policy makers, research funding bodies, clinicians, and individuals with dementia and their caregivers.


Fabrication of g-C3N4@N-doped Bi2MoO6 heterostructure for enhanced visible-light-driven photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline pollutant.
An effective catalyst for the removal of antibiotic pollutants which severely impact water bodies and the environment is most favorable. In this study, g-C3N4 (gCN) and nitrogen-doped Bi2MoO6 (gCN-NBM) heterostructures are developed using a solvothermal process with enhanced photocatalytic degradation of tetracycline (TC) pollutants under visible-light irradiation. The experimental results confirm that nitrogen-doped Bi2MoO6 (NBM) nanomaterials were dispersed on the gCN surface, and a close combination of NBM and gCN leads to the efficient photocatalytic performance of TC. The photocatalytic efficiency of the heterostructure catalysts is four-fold higher than those of the pristine Bi2MoO6 catalysts owing to the excellent photogenerated charge separation and reduced recombination rate. Photocurrent measurements and electrochemical impedance spectra results disclose that the prepared heterostructure catalysts exhibit efficient photo-induced charge transfer. The electron spin resonance spectra and quenching experiments results reveal that superoxide radicals (.O2-) play a major role in TC degradation. This study presents a promising approach for designing efficient visible-light photocatalysts for environmental remediation applications.


Comparison of Indiana High School Football Injury Rates by Inclusion of the USA Football "Heads Up Football" Player Safety Coach.
In Indiana, high school football coaches are required to complete a coaching education course with material related to concussion awareness, equipment fitting, heat emergency preparedness, and proper technique. Some high schools have also opted to implement a player safety coach (PSC). The PSC, an integral component of USA Football's Heads Up Football (HUF) program, is a coach whose primary responsibility is to ensure that other coaches are implementing proper tackling and blocking techniques alongside other components of the HUF program. To compare injury rates in Indiana high school football teams by their usage of a PSC or online coaching education only. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2. Athletic trainers (ATs) evaluated and tracked injuries at each practice and game during the 2015 high school football season. Players were drawn from 6 teams in Indiana. The PSC group, which used the PSC component, was comprised of 204 players from 3 teams. The "education only" group (EDU), which utilized coaching education only, was composed of 186 players from 3 teams. Injury rates and injury rate ratios (IRRs) were reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). During 25,938 athlete-exposures (AEs), a total of 149 injuries were reported, of which 54 (36.2%) and 95 (63.8%) originated from the PSC and EDU groups, respectively. The practice injury rate was lower in the PSC group than the EDU group (2.99 vs 4.83/1000 AEs; IRR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.40-0.95). The game injury rate was also lower in the PSC group than the EDU group (11.37 vs 26.37/1000 AEs; IRR, 0.43; 95% CI, 0.25-0.74). When restricted to concussions only, the rate was lower in the PSC group (0.09 vs 0.73/1000 AEs; IRR, 0.12; 95% CI, 0.01-0.94), although only 1 concussion was reported in the PSC group. No differences were found in game concussion rates (0.60 vs 4.39/1000 AEs; IRR, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.02-1.11). Findings support the PSC as an effective method of injury mitigation in high school football. Future research should seek to replicate this study using larger samples from additional states.


Articulatory complexity at item boundaries in serial recall: the case of Welsh and English digit span.
The proposition that the difference in memory span between Welsh digits and English digits is accounted for by the longer articulatory duration of Welsh digits is critically reexamined. Two methods of measuring digit duration are contrasted. One is derived from digits spoken in isolation; the other is based on digits spoken in list format. Duration of Welsh digits was greater only when spoken in lists; with isolated production Welsh digits were significantly shorter than English digits. Also, span was shorter for Welsh digits. The results are interpreted in the light of the different articulatory demands made at the junctures between words in the English and Welsh lists. A supplementary experiment, using English words, illustrated that articulatory complexity at item boundaries increased serial recall error.


Evaluation and Management of Adolescents with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding.
The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists support the use of new terminology for abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) to consistently categorize AUB by etiology. The term AUB can be further classified as AUB/heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) (replacing the term "menorrhagia") or AUB/intermenstrual bleeding (replacing the term "metrorrhagia"). Although many cases of AUB in adolescent women are attributable to immaturity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, underlying bleeding disorders should be considered in women with AUB/HMB. This article reviews the new terminology for AUB, discusses important relevant features of history and examination, presents the laboratory evaluation of HMB, and describes hormonal (oral contraceptive pills, progestin-only methods, long-acting reversible contraceptives including intrauterine systems), hematologic (tranexamic acid and desmopressin), and surgical management options for AUB/HMB.


Processing of Citrus Nanostructured Cellulose: A Rigorous Design-of-Experiment Study of the Hydrothermal Microwave-Assisted Selective Scissoring Process.
A detailed design-of-experiment (DoE) study to investigate the cause-effect interactions of three process variables, that is, temperature (120-200 °C), holding time (0-30 min), and concentration (1.4-5.0 wt %), on the processing of citrus cellulosic matter using acid-free microwave-assisted selective scissoring (Hy-MASS) is reported. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that post-microwave processing, the yield of cellulosic matter (25-72 %), decomposition temperature (345-373 °C), and crystallinity index (34-67 %) were strongly affected by temperature. SEM and TEM analyses showed that the isolated cellulosic matter was heterogeneous and consisted of a mixture of micro- and nanofibers more akin to microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) at low processing temperatures and tending towards aggregated cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) at higher processing temperatures. The water holding capacity of the processed cellulosic matter (15-27 gH2O g-1 ) was higher than the original feedstock or previously reported values. The average molecular weight of the cellulosic matter (113.6-1095.9 kg mol-1 ) decreased significantly by a factor of 10 at operating temperatures above 180 °C, invoking significant scissoring of the cellulosic chains. The process energy input and costs varied between 0.142-0.624 kWh and 13-373 € kg-1 , respectively, and strongly depended on the reaction time.


Wrong-way-round ionization of sulfonamides and tetracyclines enables simultaneous analysis with free and conjugated estrogens by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry.
The increasing demand to monitor multiple classes of analytes has been mirrored by increased analytical cost and decreased throughput. For instance, the analyses of estrogens and antibiotics by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) are typically performed in two separate methods because estrogen analysis requires electrospray with negative ionization, while sulfonamide and tetracycline antibiotics are analyzed under positive ionization. Therefore, we investigated the use of wrong-way-round (WWR) ionization to demonstrate that sulfonamides and tetracyclines can be analyzed at a high pH (10.4), allowing simultaneous analysis with free and conjugated estrogens. An LC-MS/MS method was developed for 28 compounds by polarity switching, based on WWR ionization brought about by the ability of ammonium ions to protonate basic compounds in the gas phase even at high pH. Mass spectral data suggest that gas-phase chemical ionization induced by ammonium ions to form adducts [M + NH(4)](+) occurred, with the subsequent dissociation to the molecular ion [M + H](+). Almost all compounds have an increased signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of [M + H](+) for sulfonamides and tetracyclines when ionized in basic versus acidic mobile phases by direct injection (no column), indicating that detection limits were not compromised. This study demonstrates a successful application of WWR ionization for the simultaneous analysis of multiple classes of compounds in a single LC-MS/MS analysis.


Correlation between lumenal geometry changes and hemodynamics in fusiform intracranial aneurysms.
Hemodynamics may predispose aneurysms to rupture; however, hemodynamic descriptors that can describe aneurysm growth are not well understood. We examined the relationship between hemodynamics and growth of 2 fusiform basilar artery aneurysms in an effort to define hemodynamic variables that may be helpful in predicting aneurysmal growth. Two patients with basilar fusiform aneurysms of a similar size were followed for a 2-year period. The lumenal geometry and inflow and outflow rates were acquired by using MR angiography and velocimetry, respectively. The location of aneurysmal growth was identified by coregistering aneurysm models that were acquired at different times. Hemodynamic descriptors were calculated by using computational fluid dynamic simulations and compared with aneurysm growth pattern. One patient had an aneurysm that grew significantly, but a similar-sized aneurysm in the other patient remained unchanged. The largest aneurysmal growth (approximately 3 mm/year) was found at the inferior side (lower part) of the aneurysm, where the wall shear stress was very low (<0.1N/m(2)). The general flow patterns did not change with time, even in the aneurysm that grew, but histograms of wall shear stress were very different in these 2 patients. This study investigates whether hemodynamic descriptors can be correlated with regional changes in aneurysm lumen morphology on a patient-specific basis. That capability will permit the testing, in longitudinal studies, of hypotheses as to which mechanisms are the most important in aneurysm growth.


Effect of hemoperfusion of clearance of gentamicin, cephalothin, and clindamycon from plasma of normal dogs.
Nine normal dogs were divided into three groups of three. Group 1 was given an overdose of gentamicin; group 2, cephalothin; and group 3, clindamycin. Group 1 had hemoperfusion with Amberlite XE-336, and groups 2 and 3 with Amberlite XAD-4 resin adsorbents, for 6 hr with a blood flow rate of 300 ml/min. The plasma clearance and removal rates of antibiotics by the hemoperfusion columns were high. The clearance rate of gentamicin from plasma (mean +/- standard deviation) ranged from 59 +/- 30 to 199 +/- 6 ml/min, of cephalothin from 66 +/- 14 to 157 +/- 8 ml/min, and of clindamycin from 55 +/- 9 to 125 +/- 16 ml/min. Of the total dose of antibiotic administered, the hemoperfusion columns removed 67% from theplasma in group 1, 41% in group 2, and 18% in group 3. The fact that antibiotics may be rapidly removed from the blood during hemoperfusion should be considered in calculation of the therapeutic dose of antibiotic required for patients who receive this preocedure. Also, hemoperfusion can effectively and rapidly remove certain antibiotics from the blood of patients who have had a potentially toxic overdose.


Protective role of naringenin against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in a rat model: histopathology and mRNA expression profile studies.
Doxorubicin (DOX) is one of the most effective and widely used chemotherapeutic agents. Its efficacy has been proven in various malignancies alone and combined with other cytocidal agents. However, the clinical usefulness of DOX is restricted by the risk of developing congestive heart failure. Formation of free radicals and oxidative stress during DOX treatment may result in adverse side effects. Naringenin (NAR) is one of the potential bioflavonoids with excellent antioxidant properties and free-radical scavenging capability. This study was designed to evaluate whether NAR exerts a protective role against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. Male Wistar rats were administered DOX (3 mg/kg) intravenously for 10 consecutive weeks along with oral treatment with NAR (50 mg/kg/day). DOX-induced cardiac toxicity was characterized by the marked biochemical alterations of lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH), troponin T, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced cardiac enzymatic activities (SOD, GPx, CAT) and histopathological observations. Administration of NAR to DOX-challenged rats ameliorated alterations in biochemical markers. Indeed, DOX increased the mRNA expression levels of TGF-β1, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 compared with the control group. However, cotreatment with NAR attenuated the mRNA expression levels of these inflammatory markers and improved histological cardiac damage and cardiac functions. Thus, supplementation of NAR may be beneficial in reducing DOX toxicity.


The SPI2-encoded SseA chaperone has discrete domains required for SseB stabilization and export, and binds within the C-terminus of SseB and SseD.
SseA, a key Salmonella virulence determinant, is a small, basic pI protein encoded within the Salmonella pathogenicity island 2 and serves as a type III secretion system chaperone for SseB and SseD. Both SseA partners are subunits of the surface-localized translocon module that delivers effectors into the host cell; SseB is predicted to compose the translocon sheath and SseD is a putative translocon pore subunit. In this study, SseA molecular interactions with its partners were characterized further. Yeast two-hybrid screens indicate that SseA binding requires a C-terminal domain within both partners. An additional central domain within SseD was found to influence binding. The SseA-binding region within SseB was found to encompass a predicted amphipathic helix of a type participating in coiled-coil interactions that are implicated in the assembly of translocon sheaths. Deletions that impinge upon this putative coiled-coiled domain prevent SseA binding, suggesting that SseA occupies a portion of the coiled-coil. SseA occupancy of this motif is envisioned to be sufficient to prevent premature SseB self-association inside bacteria. Domain mapping on the chaperone was also performed. A deletion of the SseA N-terminus, or site-directed mutations within this region, allowed stabilization of SseB, but its export was disrupted. Therefore, the N-terminus of SseA provides a function that is essential for SseB export, but dispensable for partner binding and stabilization.


PRMT7 regulates RNA-binding capacity and protein stability in Leishmania parasites.
RNA binding proteins (RBPs) are the primary gene regulators in kinetoplastids as transcriptional control is nearly absent, making Leishmania an exceptional model for investigating methylation of non-histone substrates. Arginine methylation is an evolutionarily conserved protein modification catalyzed by Protein aRginine Methyl Transferases (PRMTs). The chromatin modifier PRMT7 is the only Type III PRMT found in higher eukaryotes and a restricted number of unicellular eukaryotes. In Leishmania major, PRMT7 is a cytoplasmic protein implicit in pathogenesis with unknown substrates. Using comparative methyl-SILAC proteomics for the first time in protozoa, we identified 40 putative targets, including 17 RBPs hypomethylated upon PRMT7 knockout. PRMT7 can modify Alba3 and RBP16 trans-regulators (mammalian RPP25 and YBX2 homologs, respectively) as direct substrates in vitro. The absence of PRMT7 levels in vivo selectively reduces Alba3 mRNA-binding capacity to specific target transcripts and can impact the relative stability of RBP16 in the cytoplasm. RNA immunoprecipitation analyses demonstrate PRMT7-dependent methylation promotes Alba3 association with select target transcripts and thus indirectly stabilizes mRNA of a known virulence factor, δ-amastin surface antigen. These results highlight a novel role for PRMT7-mediated arginine methylation of RBP substrates, suggesting a regulatory pathway controlling gene expression and virulence in Leishmania. This work introduces Leishmania PRMTs as epigenetic regulators of mRNA metabolism with mechanistic insight into the functional manipulation of RBPs by methylation.


Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy: Current Perspectives.
Despite improvements in assisted reproduction techniques (ARTs), live birth rates remain suboptimal, particularly in women with advanced maternal age (AMA). The leading cause of poor reproductive outcomes demonstrated in women with AMA, as well as women with recurrent miscarriage and repetitive implantation failure, is thought to be due to high rates of embryonic aneuploidy. Preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) aims to select an euploid embryo for transfer and therefore improve ART outcomes. Early PGT-A studies using fluorescent in situ hybridization on mainly cleavage-stage biopsies failed to show improved delivery rates and, in certain cases, were even found to be harmful. However, the development of comprehensive chromosome screening, as well as improvements in culture media and vitrification techniques, has resulted in an emerging body of evidence in favor of PGT-A, demonstrating higher implantation, pregnancy, and live birth rates. While there are concerns regarding the potential harm of invasive biopsy and the cost implications of PGT-A, the introduction of noninvasive techniques and the development of new high-throughput methods which lower costs are tackling these issues. This review aims to assess the evidence for PGT-A, address possible concerns regarding PGT-A, and also explore the future direction of this technology.


Engineered nanomaterials for water decontamination and purification: From lab to products.
Clean water is vital for life; it is required not only for drinking but also for the preparation of food and proper hygiene. Unfortunately, more than fifty percent of the world population mainly in China and India face a severe scarcity of water. Around 1.8 billion people inevitably drink water from sources having fecal contamination resulting in the death of about a million children every year. Scientists are developing various economic technologies to decontaminate and purify water. Nanomaterials-based technology offers an economic and effective alternative for water purification and decontamination. As nanomaterials are available globally, have remarkable antimicrobial activity and the ability to effectively remove organic and inorganic pollutants from water. This review discusses the potential role of nanomaterials in the purification of drinking water. As nanomaterials exhibit remarkable antimicrobial and antiparasitic activities against waterborne pathogens and parasites of primary concern like Shigella dysenteriae, Vibrio cholera, and Entamoeba histolytica. Nanomaterials also demonstrate the ability to absorb toxic chemicals like mercury and dyes from polluted water. However, for successful commercialization of the technology, some inherent bottlenecks need to be addressed adequately. These include nanoparticles aggregation, their seepage into drinking water and adverse effects on human health and the environment. Nanocomposites are being developed to overcome these problems and to combine two or more desirable properties for water purification. Widespread and large-scale use of nanomaterials for water purification soon may become a reality. Products containing nanomaterials such as Karofi, Lifestraw, and Tupperware for water purification are already available in the market.


Identification of receptor genes in renal cell carcinoma associated with angiogenesis by differential hybridization technique.
To screen the receptor genes in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) associated with angiogenesis, we performed differential hybridization of the cDNA library of membrane-type protein tyrosine kinases (mPTKs). Three thousand plaques of a mPTKs-enriched cDNA library were screened with mPTKs mixture probes produced from hypervascular RCC tissues and RCC cell lines. Six different cDNA fragments of the PTK genes were isolated, and the sequence analysis showed that these represented cDNAs for TIE1, KDR, FMS, FGFR-4, JAK1 and HCK. Of these genes, the expression of TIE1, KDR, and FGFR-4 was studied in RCC tissue and cell lines by Northern blot analysis. We also investigated the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placenta growth factor (PlGF) and their receptor FLT-1. In all the hypervascular RCC tissues, the amounts of mRNAs for KDR and FLT-1 were increased compared to adjacent normal tissues. The TIE1 and FGFR-4 genes were also overexpressed in most of the hypervascular RCC tissues, while no mRNA of KDR, FLT-1, or TIE1 could be detected in any of the four human RCC cell lines. The amounts of the VEGF and PlGF mRNAs were increased in hypervascular RCC tissues, while VEGF mRNA was detected in the four cell lines but PlGF mRNA was not. FGFR-4 mRNA was expressed in three of the four cell lines. These results suggest that KDR, FLT-1, PlGF and TIE1 mRNAs are present in the mesenchymal cells of RCC, while VEGF and FGFR-4 genes are expressed in RCC cells themselves in vivo.


Effect of infrared laser irradiation on amino acid neurotransmitters in an epileptic animal model induced by pilocarpine.
The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of daily laser irradiation on the levels of amino acid neurotransmitters in the cortex and hippocampus in an epileptic animal model induced by pilocarpine. It has been claimed that at specific wavelengths and energy densities, laser irradiation is a novel and useful tool for the treatment of peripheral and central nervous system injuries and disorders. Adult male albino rats were divided into three groups: control rats, pilocarpinized rats (epileptic animal model), and pilocarpinized rats treated daily with laser irradiation (90 mW at 830 nm) for 7 d. The following parameters were assayed in cortex and hippocampus: amino acid neurotransmitters (excitatory: glutamic acid and aspartate; and inhibitory: gamma-aminobutyric acid [GABA], glycine, and taurine) by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), glucose content, and the activity of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), using a spectrophotometer. Significant increases in the concentrations of glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, and taurine were recorded in the cortices of pilocarpinized rats, and they returned to initial levels after laser treatment. In the hippocampus, a moderate increase in aspartate accompanied by a significant increase in glycine were observed in the epileptic animal model, and these dropped to near-control values after laser treatment. In addition, a significant increase in cortical AST activity and a significant decrease in ALT activity and glucose content were obtained in the pilocarpinized animals and pilocarpinized rats treated with laser irradiation. In the hippocampus, significant decreases in the activity of AST and ALT and glucose content were recorded in the epileptic animals and in the epileptic animals treated with laser irradiation. Based on the results obtained in this study, it may be suggested that nearinfrared laser irradiation may reverse the neurochemical changes in amino acid neurotransmitters induced by pilocarpine.


External quality assurance program for biological monitoring in occupational and environmental medicine.
Biological monitoring of chemical exposure in the workplace and in the environment has become increasingly important in assessing health risk. The analysis must be carried out under a quality assurance scheme to guarantee that the results obtained in biological monitoring are comparable with the threshold limit values and results from other laboratories. Since 1982, the German Society for Occupational and Environmental Medicine has offered 28 intercomparison programs. These programs cover 96 analytes in urine, blood, and plasma for 47 substances and cover most parameters that are relevant in occupational and environmental medicine. The data obtained in these programs provide a good overview of the current quality of the determination of analytes that are assessed in occupational and environmental toxicological laboratories. For the analyses of inorganic substances in blood and urine, the tolerable variation ranges from 7.5% to 43.5%. For organic substances in urine, the tolerable variation ranges from 12% to 48%. For organic substances in urine, the tolerable variation ranges from 12% to 48%. The highest variations (36% to 60%) were found for the analysis of organochlorine compounds in plasma. The tolerable variations for determining solvents in blood by head space gas chromatography range from 26% to 57%. The overall average success rates for the participants of the external quality programs range from 65% to 75%.


Passive citizen science: The role of social media in wildlife observations.
Citizen science plays an important role in observing the natural environment. While conventional citizen science consists of organized campaigns to observe a particular phenomenon or species there are also many ad hoc observations of the environment in social media. These data constitute a valuable resource for 'passive citizen science'-the use of social media that are unconnected to any particular citizen science program, but represent an untapped dataset of ecological value. We explore the value of passive citizen science, by evaluating species distributions using the photo sharing site Flickr. The data are evaluated relative to those submitted to the National Biodiversity Network (NBN) Atlas, the largest collection of species distribution data in the UK. Our study focuses on the 1500 best represented species on NBN, and common invasive species within UK, and compares the spatial and temporal distribution with NBN data. We also introduce an innovative image verification technique that uses the Google Cloud Vision API in combination with species taxonomic data to determine the likelihood that a mention of a species on Flickr represents a given species. The spatial and temporal analyses for our case studies suggest that the Flickr dataset best reflects the NBN dataset when considering a purely spatial distribution with no time constraints. The best represented species on Flickr in comparison to NBN are diurnal garden birds as around 70% of the Flickr posts for them are valid observations relative to the NBN. Passive citizen science could offer a rich source of observation data for certain taxonomic groups, and/or as a repository for dedicated projects. Our novel method of validating Flickr records is suited to verifying more extensive collections, including less well-known species, and when used in combination with citizen science projects could offer a platform for accurate identification of species and their location.


Is tamoxifen associated with high-risk endometrial carcinomas? A retrospective case series of 196 women with endometrial cancer.
Tamoxifen therapy is associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer. There is controversy regarding the incidence of high-grade endometrial malignancies associated with tamoxifen therapy. This retrospective study assesses pathological features of endometrial malignancy in patients with and without a history of tamoxifen therapy. This is a retrospective case analysis from a district general hospital. The cases were identified from the pathology database and the medical notes reviewed. The period of the study was January 1994 to December 2001. One hundred and ninety six women with endometrial cancer were identified. 20 patients had a history of breast cancer being treated with adjuvant tamoxifen therapy and developed subsequently endometrial cancer. The histology in women who had not taken tamoxifen showed: adenocarcinoma (97.1%), 1.7% had mixed mullerian tumour. Women in the tamoxifen-treated group had: adenocarcinoma (85%), sarcoma (5%), mixed mullerian tumour (5%). In this study the tamoxifen-treated group of patients developed endometrial malignancies with a higher incidence of poor prognostic malignancies (p = 0.01). Further research is needed to analyse the precise tumour types and pathophysiology.


Molecular epidemiology of adenovirus type 35 infections in immunocompromised hosts.
Adenovirus type 35 (Ad35) is an uncommon group B adenovirus that has been isolated nearly exclusively from immunosuppressed hosts. In our series of 46 patients with Ad35 isolates, 36 had AIDS or AIDS-related complex (ARC), seven patients were immunocompromised because of other diseases, and three patients were "normal." Neither patients with AIDS or ARC made specific antibody to Ad35, whereas antibody was present in one immunocompetent host and one renal transplant recipient. All isolates were identified as Ad35 by using genomic analysis with the restriction endonuclease SmaI, but many viruses exhibited other group B hemagglutinins, a property of the fiber protein. Further analysis of DNAs from 40 of these isolates, mapped by using the enzymes BamHI, HpaI, and PstI, revealed a total of 14 genomic variants from the Ad35 prototype. Seven of these genomic types, with either Ad7 or Ad11 hemagglutinin, had corresponding restriction site differences within the fiber gene, a result consistent with recombination events with other group B adenoviruses.


Propionibacterium acnes Induces IL-1β secretion via the NLRP3 inflammasome in human monocytes.
Propionibacterium acnes induction of inflammatory responses is a major etiological factor contributing to the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. In particular, the IL-1 family of cytokines has a critical role in both initiation of acne lesions and in the inflammatory response in acne. In this study, we demonstrated that human monocytes respond to P. acnes and secrete mature IL-1β partially via the NLRP3-mediated pathway. When monocytes were stimulated with live P. acnes, caspase-1 and caspase-5 gene expression was upregulated; however, IL-1β secretion required only caspase-1 activity. P. acnes induced key inflammasome genes including NLRP1 and NLPR3. Moreover, silencing of NLRP3, but not NLRP1, expression by small interfering RNA attenuated P. acnes-induced IL-1β secretion. The mechanism of P. acnes-induced NLRP3 activation and subsequent IL-1β secretion was found to involve potassium efflux. Finally, in acne lesions, mature caspase-1 and NLRP3 were detected around the pilosebaceous follicles and colocalized with tissue macrophages. Taken together, our results indicate that P. acnes triggers a key inflammatory mediator, IL-1β, via NLRP3 and caspase-1 activation, suggesting a role for inflammasome-mediated inflammation in acne pathogenesis.


Spectrum of clinical and laboratory characteristics of HIV infection in northern India.
To define the impact of HIV infection in India, the clinical and laboratory profile and the correlation of CD4 count to the likely opportunistic infection in a cohort of 134 HIV positive patients in Northern India was analysed. Majority of the patients, 72% and 67.8% (children and adults respectively) were asymptomatic, having been detected during routine screening and maintained that status for a median follow-up period of 3 years. Among the symptomatic patients, oropharyngeal candidiasis was the most common opportunistic infection followed closely by tuberculosis (both pulmonary and extra pulmonary) around 3.6-4.0 years from probable HIV infection with a median CD4 of 420-578 per cmm. Infection with Cryptococcosis, Cryptosporidiosis and cytomegalovirus occurred only after a significant fall in CD4 to < 100/cmm usually around 8-10 years from probable HIV infection. Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia was the terminal event among the 12 deaths at a mean CD4 count of 6/cmm. Non specific constitutional symptoms like fever, prolonged diarrhoea and significant weight loss were frequent. In general, the clinical profile of Indian patients with HIV bears much resemblance to African countries owing perhaps to the similar background of poverty, malnutrition and endemic infection.


Polyelectrolyte multilayered nanofilms as a novel approach for the protection of hydrogen storage materials.
This work describes the encapsulation of hydrogen storage materials from organic solvents. Due to complex formation the shell provides stability and selective permeability. Specifically, sodium borohydride particles were encapsulated within polymer films by the layer-by-layer self-assembly of oppositely charged polyelectrolytes (polyethyleneimine and poly(acrylonitrile-co-butadiene-co-acrylic acid)). The polymer nanofilm fabrication was performed using dichloromethane as a working media. IR spectroscopy was applied to investigate the chemical interaction between the polyelectrolytes. The multilayer film preparation was verified by Z-potential measurements, scanning electron microscopy, and confocal laser microscopy. The stability of sodium borohydride protected with a polyelectrolyte shell was increased compared to that of the pure material under ambient conditions.


Primary Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Ileostomy Stoma on 68Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT.
A 75-year-old man presented with bleeding ileostomy stoma 20 years after total colectomy and end ileostomy for chronic ulcerative colitis. On physical examination, the stoma was mass-like and firm with friable mucosa. Wedge biopsy of the ileostomy stoma revealed well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumor (intermediate grade). Ga-DOTATATE PET/CT showed mass-like focal radiotracer uptake at the ileostomy site without radiotracer-avid lymphadenopathy or distant metastatic disease. No additional sites of neoplasm in the gastrointestinal tract were further identified by endoscopy. The diagnosis of isolated primary neuroendocrine tumor of the ileostomy stoma was confirmed, an extremely rare entity.


Emergency Medicine Residency Applicant Characteristics Associated with Measured Adverse Outcomes During Residency.
Negative outcomes in emergency medicine (EM) programs use a disproportionate amount of educational resources to the detriment of other residents. We sought to determine if any applicant characteristics identifiable during the selection process are associated with negative outcomes during residency. Primary analysis consisted of looking at the association of each of the descriptors including resident characteristics and events during residency with a composite measure of negative outcomes. Components of the negative outcome composite were any formal remediation, failure to complete residency, or extension of residency. From a dataset of 260 residents who completed their residency over a 19-year period, 26 (10%) were osteopaths and 33 (13%) were international medical school graduates A leave of absence during medical school (p <.001), failure to send a thank-you note (p=.008), a failing score on United States Medical Licensing Examination Step I (p=.002), and a prior career in health (p=.034) were factors associated with greater likelihood of a negative outcome. All four residents with a "red flag" during their medicine clerkships experienced a negative outcome (p <.001). "Red flags" during EM clerkships, a leave of absence during medical school for any reason and failure to send post-interview thank-you notes may be associated with negative outcomes during an EM residency.


Spread according to histology in non-Hodgkin's lymphomata.
The spread of non-Hodgkin's lymphomata was investigated in a group of 323 cases. Differences were sought between 4 histological groups: lymphocytic vs histiocytic lymphomata and diffuse vs follicular types. Histiocytic and follicular types were rare in childhood. Histiocytic lymphomata, compared with lymphocytic ones, were more often confined to sites above the diaphragm. They exhibited a higher rate of loco-regional recurrences within the first 3 months and also of late recurrence after 4 years. Lymphocytic lymphomata of the follicular type more commonly presented with nodal involvement below the diaphragm as primary or secondary site than the diffuse form. Follicular types of lymphoma compared with diffuse types, occurred more frequently in women. They were more seldom seen as primary or secondary sites in extranodal localizations. They had a smaller chance of late disease recurrence and were associated with a longer survival time after first recurrence. The mediastinum often remained clinically uninvolved. With regard to this mediastinal "skip" no differences were found between the histological groups.


Quantitative control of neuron adhesion at a neural interface using a conducting polymer composite with low electrical impedance.
Tailoring cell response on an electrode surface is essential in the application of neural interfaces. In this paper, a method of controlling neuron adhesion on the surface of an electrode was demonstrated using a conducting polymer composite as an electrode coating. The electrodeposited coating was functionalized further with biomolecules-of-interest (BOI), with their surface concentration controlled via repetition of carbodiimide chemistry. The result was an electrode surface that promoted localized adhesion of primary neurons, the density of which could be controlled quantitatively via changes in the number of layers of BOI added. Important to neural interfaces, it was found that additional layers of BOI caused an insignificant increase in the electrical impedance, especially when compared to the large drop in impedance upon coating of the electrode with the conducting polymer composite.


Keratins in the human trophoblast.
Besides microfilaments and microtubules, intermediate filaments are major components of the cytoskeleton. In epithelial cells intermediate filaments are formed by heterodimers of specific keratins, whose expression pattern highly depends on the type of epithelium and differentiation degree of the cell. During the process of blastocyst implantation and subsequent development of the human placenta a very specialized epithelium appears at the feto-maternal interface. Arising from the trophectoderm of the blastocyst, the epithelium-like layer surrounding the early embryoblast, different trophoblast subtypes differentiate. They either develop into polar cells fulfilling real epithelial functions, or apolar tumor-like cells invading the maternal uterine wall to adapt the maternal tissue to progressing pregnancy. Thus, the whole trophoblast population, with all its subtypes, can be considered as an epithelial compartment and hence expresses keratin filaments. However, differentiation of trophoblast into different phenotypes may be linked to remodeling of the cytoskeletal composition, depending on spatiotemporal requirements of the respective cells. Here, we focus on the keratin composition of different trophoblast subtypes, how these keratins are used in trophoblast research and what is known about placental keratins in pregnancy pathologies.


Identification of a novel inhibitor of liver cancer cell invasion and proliferation through regulation of Akt and Twist1.
When primary cancer faces limited oxygen and nutrient supply, it undergoes an epithelial-mesenchymal transition, which increases cancer cell motility and invasiveness. The migratory and invasive cancer cells often exert aggressive cancer development or even cancer metastasis. In this study, we investigated a novel compound, 3-acetyl-5,8-dichloro-2-((2,4-dichlorophenyl)amino)quinolin-4(1H)-one (ADQ), that showed significant suppression of wound healing and cellular invasion. This compound also inhibited anchorage-independent cell growth, multicellular tumor spheroid survival/invasion, and metalloprotease activities. The anti-proliferative effects of ADQ were mediated by inhibition of the Akt pathway. In addition, ADQ reduced the expression of mesenchymal markers of cancer cells, which was associated with the suppressed expression of Twist1. In conclusion, ADQ successfully suppressed carcinogenic activity by inhibiting the Akt signaling pathway and Twist1, which suggests that ADQ may be an efficient candidate for cancer drug development.


Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus Genotypes Among Patients in Countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office of WHO (EMRO): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major global public health issue. The Eastern Mediterranean regional office (EMRO) of the world health organization (WHO) seems to have one of the highest prevalence rates worldwide, with at least 21.3 million HCV-infected patients. The aim of the present study was to review systematically all epidemiological data related to the prevalence of HCV genotypes in infected patients in EMRO countries. A systematic search was conducted of peer-reviewed journals indexed in electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, ISI, PakMediNet, and IMEMR, and Persian-specific databases including SID, Iran Medex, and MagIran). A systematic search was performed with temporal limits (papers published between January 2000 up to June 2015), regarding the prevalence and distribution of HCV genotypes in EMRO countries. The prevalence rates of HCV genotypes were pooled by metan command in Stata 14. Statistical heterogeneity was explored using the I-square at the 5% significance level. Publication bias was assessed, graphically and statistically, by funnel plot and Begg and Egger tests. A total of 563 records were identified through the electronic search. Of these records, 134 studies comprising 67681 HCV-infected individuals were included in the meta-analysis. In Iran, subtype 1a was the predominant subtype with a rate of 42% (95% CI, 39 - 46), followed by subtype 3a, 35% (95% CI, 31 - 38). In Pakistan, Subtype 3a was the most common subtype with a rate of 56% (95% CI, 49 - 62), followed by subtype 3b, 10% (95% CI, 7 - 12). In Saudi Arabia and Egypt, genotype 4 was the most prevalent genotype with a rate of 65% (95% CI, 59 - 72) and 69% (95% CI, 36 - 100) respectively. In Tunisia and Morocco, subtype 1b was the most common subtype with a rate of 69% (95% CI, 50 - 88) and 32% (95% CI, 7 - 56) respectively. The genotype distribution of HCV takes diverse patterns in EMRO countries. Genotypes 1 and 3 were predominant in Iran and Pakistan, while genotype 4 and 1 were the most common genotypes in the Middle East Arab countries and North African Arab countries. Understanding the genotypes of HCV can help policy makers in designing good strategies for treatment.


Fertility and life span: late children enhance female longevity.
The relation between fertility and postmenopausal longevity is investigated for a sample of 1635 women from a historical (17th to 18th century) French-Canadian cohort who lived past the age of 50 years. We find that increased fertility is linked to increased rather than decreased postreproductive survival. Postreproductive life expectancy extension is found to be tied to late births. This finding sheds new light on the cost of reproduction and may be viewed as supporting a new paradigm that states that reproductive potential drives remaining longevity. The emerging reproductive potential concept complements the well-established cost of reproduction hypothesis. Alternative explanations for the observed association are also explored. A specific finding is that the degree to which mortality increases for 50-year-old mothers as a result of senescence is closely tied to the logarithm of the age of their youngest child. For example, 50-year-old mothers experience a mortality decrease of 38% and an increase of remaining lifetime of 3.93 years for every 10-fold decrease in the age of their youngest child. This amount of gain in remaining life expectancy would apply to a mother with a two-year-old child as compared with a mother with a 20-year-old offspring. We also find evidence for the existence of vulnerable periods in human life history that are characterized by phases of heightened mortality and are found to be tied to reproduction and senescence.


Riluzole suppresses experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis: implications for the treatment of multiple sclerosis.
Recent studies suggest that glutamate neurotoxicity is involved in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), and that treatment with glutamate receptor (AMPA/kainate) antagonists inhibits experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), the conventional model of MS. Therefore, we examined whether riluzole, an inhibitor of glutamate transmission, affects the pathogenesis and clinical features of MS-like disease in myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)-induced EAE in mice. Here we report that riluzole (10 mg/kgx2/day, i.p.), administered before and even after the appearance of clinical symptoms, dramatically reduced the clinical severity of MOG-induced EAE, while all the MOG-immunized control mice developed significant clinical manifestations. Moreover, the riluzole-treated mice demonstrated only mild focal inflammation, and less demyelination, compared to MOG-treated mice, using histological methods. Furthermore, riluzole markedly reduced axonal disruption, as assessed by Bielshowesky's silver staining and by antibodies against non-phosphorylated neurofilaments (SMI-32). No difference was detected in the immune system potency, as T-cell proliferative responses to MOG were similar in both groups. In conclusion, our study demonstrates, for the first time, that riluzole can reduce inflammation, demyelination and axonal damage in the CNS and attenuate the clinical severity of MOG-induced EAE. These results suggest that riluzole, a drug used in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), might be beneficial for the treatment of MS.


Lack of implementation of eating disorder education and prevention programs in high schools: Data from incoming college freshmen.
The purpose of this study was to examine the implementation of eating disorder education and prevention programs in high schools retrospectively, as reported by incoming college freshmen, exploring whether characteristics of the school influenced implementation. The sample, 169 first-year students from a public university, participated in an online survey inquiring about exposure to programs and high school characteristics. Results demonstrated few students exposed to any eating disorder programming (29.0%), with no students reporting exposure to prevention programming. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the implementation based on school characteristics, suggesting that this is a universal issue across high schools.


Photoresponse-Bias Modulation of a High-Performance MoS2 Photodetector with a Unique Vertically Stacked 2H-MoS2/1T@2H-MoS2 Structure.
Monolayer 2H-phase MoS2-based photodetectors exhibit high photon absorption but suffer from low photoresponse, which severely limits their applications in optoelectronic fields. The metallic 1T phase of MoS2, while transporting carriers faster, shows negligible response to visible light, which limits its usage in photodetectors. Herein, we propose an ultrafast-response MoS2-based photodetector having a channel that consists of a 2H-MoS2 sensitizing monolayer on top of 1T@2H-MoS2. The 1T@2H-MoS2 layer has a thickness of several nanometers and is a mixture of metallic 1T-MoS2 and semiconducting 2H-MoS2, imparting metal-like properties to the photodetector. Compared with the monolayer 2H-MoS2 photodetector, we observed a drastic increase in the photoresponse of the 2H-MoS2/1T@2H-MoS2 vertically stacked photodetector to a value of 1917 A W-1. Owing to the presence of metallic 1T-MoS2 within the metal-like 1T@2H-MoS2, the performance of the 2H-MoS2/1T@2H-MoS2 vertically stacked photodetector is voltage bias-modulated with an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of up to 448,384% and a specific detectivity of up to ∼1011 Jones. The higher carrier density and higher mobility of the 1T@2H-MoS2 layer explain the better bias-modulated performance. In addition, the interface between 2H-MoS2 and 1T@2H-MoS2 ensures fewer dangling bonds and reduced lattice mismatching. Thus, this study presents an exclusive vertically stacked MoS2-based photodetector that lays the foundation for the development of photodetectors exhibiting higher photoresponse.


Monobodies and other synthetic binding proteins for expanding protein science.
Synthetic binding proteins are constructed using nonantibody molecular scaffolds. Over the last two decades, in-depth structural and functional analyses of synthetic binding proteins have improved combinatorial library designs and selection strategies, which have resulted in potent platforms that consistently generate binding proteins to diverse targets with affinity and specificity that rival those of antibodies. Favorable attributes of synthetic binding proteins, such as small size, freedom from disulfide bond formation and ease of making fusion proteins, have enabled their unique applications in protein science, cell biology and beyond. Here, we review recent studies that illustrate how synthetic binding proteins are powerful probes that can directly link structure and function, often leading to new mechanistic insights. We propose that synthetic proteins will become powerful standard tools in diverse areas of protein science, biotechnology and medicine.


Blink reflex induced by controlled, ballistic mechanical impacts.
The blink reflex was induced by a defined mechanical impact covering the range from light touch to a hard, painful stroke, and by an electrical current. In both modes of stimulation, the R3--but not the R2--thresholds were correlated with subjective pain thresholds, suggesting a connection between R3 and nociceptor activation. However, R3 magnitude did not increase systematically with increasing levels of subjectively felt pain. The R3, induced by painful impacts, habituated quickly and was strongly affected by attention. The functional significance of the R3 component is discussed.


Reimagining disability: the screening of donor gametes and embryos in IVF.
In this article, we examine how disability is figured in the imaginaries that are given shape by the reproductive projects and parental desires facilitated by the bio-medical techniques and practices of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) that involve selection and screening for disability. We investigate how some users of ARTs understand and deploy these imaginaries in ways that are both concordant with and resistant to the understanding of disability embedded within the broader sociotechnical and social imaginaries. It is through users' deliberations, choices, responses, and expectations that we come to understand how these imaginaries are perpetuated and resisted, and how maintaining them is also dependent upon the individual actions and actors who have internalized them. Our examination is grounded in a close analysis of a small selection of interviews drawn from data gathered during a 4-year project funded by the Australian Research Council exploring the Australian experience of cross border reproductive treatment, looking particularly at surrogacy, and gamete and embryo donation. Our interviewees were individuals or couples who used gamete or embryo donation, coupled at times with surrogacy in attempting to have a child. Participants discussed their views on testing, screening, and future disability.


Changes of satisfaction with appearance and working status for head and neck tumour patients.
The aim of this survey was to examine changes of satisfaction with appearance and working status of head and neck tumour patients after tumour excision and micro-reconstructive surgery. Most research related to head and neck tumour reconstruction deals with surgical techniques and complications. No reports discussed impact on personal appearance and working status. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study design with systematical sampling. One questionnaire which included three instruments was mailed to patients selected systematically from a patient list; 525 questionnaires were mailed to the potential participants and 125 returned. However, only 97 effective questionnaires were analysed. Non-parametric statistics such as Spearman correlation, Wilcoxon signed rank test, Kolmogorov-Smirnov Z test and Kruskal-Wallis test were performed as the data were not normally distributed. Participants reported that they were least satisfied with their face (mean = 2.88 SD 1.34). Compared with presurgery condition, the satisfaction with current appearance was significantly lower (Wilcoxon signed rank test, Z = -6.39, p < 0.001). A total of 35.8% employed participants changed their jobs after cancer treatments. Their major reason for job change was discomfort caused by cancer treatment. Gender, employment status, type of job, type of treatment, age, duration from last radiotherapy and number of treatment modalities had an impact on satisfaction with appearance. Compared with presurgery, satisfaction with personal appearance did change negatively even after micro-reconstructive surgery had been conducted. In addition, certain participants changed their jobs because of cancer treatments. We should include job rehabilitation and body image into the daily care of head and neck cancer patients. For example, participants could learn how to use cosmetic strategies to improve their facial appearance during OPD follow-up. Thus, the negative impact might be reduced.


Behavioral Interventions and Cardiovascular Risk in Obese Youth: Current Findings and Future Directions.
The identification and early intervention of pediatric obesity is critical to reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD). Family-based behavioral interventions have consistently demonstrated efficacy in reducing adiposity and CVD risk factors (i.e., blood pressure, cholesterol, fasting glucose levels, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome). Even modest weight loss in severely obese youth can lead to sustained improvement in CVD risk factors. However, weight regain following treatment cessation remains a challenge in the contemporary obesogenic environment. Intensive family-based interventions spanning socioenvironmental contexts (i.e., home, peer, community) show promise in sustaining weight loss in the long-term. Despite having effective treatments for pediatric obesity and CVD risk factors, families rarely have access to these programs and so increasing the role of healthcare providers in screening and referral efforts is imperative. Moving forward, it is also essential to establish communication and cooperative networks across sectors build sustainable prevention and intervention programs and to provide cohesive health messages.


Adsorption and ion exchange: basic principles and their application in food processing.
A comprehensive overview of adsorption and ion exchange technology applied for food and nutraceutical production purposes is given in the present paper. Emanating from these fields of application, the main adsorbent and ion-exchange resin materials, their historical development, industrial production, and the main parameters characterizing these sorbents are covered. Furthermore, adsorption and ion exchange processes are detailed, also providing profound insights into kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium model assumptions. In addition, the most important industrial adsorber and ion exchange processes making use of vessels and columns are summarized. Finally, an extensive overview of selected industrial applications of these technologies is provided, which is divided into general applications, food production applications, and the recovery of valuable bio- and technofunctional compounds from the byproducts of plant food processing, which may be used as natural food additives or for their potential health-beneficial effects in functional or enriched foods and nutraceuticals.


Evaluation of API 20E strips for identification of coagulase-negative staphylococci from the urinary tract.
A previous study indicated that the API 230E system can identify coagulase-negative Staphylococcus species. A study was devised to evaluate the use of the API 20E system for this purpose. Because of the current interest in Staphylococcus saprophyticus the relationship of the API 20E results to novobiocin susceptibility was also examined. One hundred forty-nine isolates of coagulase-negative staphylococci from urine cultures were tested with the API 20E system. The identification of 49 isolates was confirmed by Kloos and Schleifer method. We found that the routine API 20E system did not provide more information than novobiocin susceptibility studies alone, and that there was good but not absolute correlation between novobiocin resistance and identification of S. saprophyticus.


Computationally Driven Structure Optimization, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation of Imidazole-Based Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin 9 (PCSK9) Inhibitors.
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin 9 (PCSK9) is responsible for the degradation of the hepatic low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), which in turn regulates the circulating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level. For this reason, the PCSK9 inhibition, by small molecules or peptides, is a validated therapeutic approach for fighting hypercholesterolemia and cardiovascular diseases. In this field, we have recently reported an imidazole-based peptidomimetic that has shown PCSK9 inhibitory activity in the micromolar range. Here, by applying advanced computational techniques, the binding mechanism of that imidazole peptidomimetic was predicted. Then, among a small set of poly-imidazole analogs, compounds showing the highest theoretical affinity were suitably synthesized, relying on a van Leusen reaction based multicomponent strategy. One compound (named RIm13) displayed a PCSK9 inhibitory activity 10-fold lower than the template compound, and, remarkably, at a concentration of 1 μM, it successfully prevented the LDLR degradation mediated by PCSK9 on HepG2 cells. As well as increasing the LDL uptake at the same concentration, RIm13 represents currently one of the most potent small molecules targeting the PCSK9/LDLR protein-protein interaction.


Migration of a contraceptive subdermal device into the lung.
A single-rod subdermal contraceptive implant is usually located around the insertion site, has been usually known to migrate within less than 2 cm of the insertion site and the true migration over 2 cm has been rarely reported. We report a case of migrated radiopaque subdermal contraceptive implant into lung in a 37-year-old woman. On conducted chest computed tomography, subdermal contraceptive implant was in subsegmental branch in left posterior basal segment of lung. Removal of subdermal contraceptive implant in left posterior basal segment of lung by mini-thoracotomy was performed by a chest surgeon. Complications with insertion and removal of subdermal contraceptive implant are rare in the hands of medical professionals familiar with the techniques and these procedures should only be undertaken by those with relevant training. The migration over 2 cm should not occur if the correct subdermal insertion procedure is followed and carried out by a properly trained individual.


EXPLANATION FOR LIMITATION OF POPULATIONS OF ESCHERICHIA COLI IN BROTH CULTURES.
Freter, Rolf (Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, Pa.), and Atsushi Ozawa. Explanation for limitation of populations of Escherichia coli in broth cultures. J. Bacteriol. 86:904-910. 1963.-Veal Infusion Broth surrounding a cellophane bag containing a 24-hr culture of Escherichia coli was inhibitory to an inoculum of the same strain when kept under an atmosphere of nitrogen plus CO(2). The inhibition could be abolished by addition of glucose or by aeration. When a small inoculum of a dulcitol-positive E. coli strain was introduced into a fully grown (24 hr) static Veal Infusion Broth culture of a dulcitol-negative E. coli, no multiplication occurred. However, the inoculum did grow in the presence of a carbon source (dulcitol) which could not be utilized by the static population. The logarithmic growth rate attained by the dulcitol-positive inoculum under these conditions was independent of the dulcitol concentration. In contrast, the maximal population size was a function of the amount of dulcitol present. Similar results were obtained when sucrose or salicin was substituted for the dulcitol. All strains grew well in filtrates of 24-hr broth cultures with growth rates and maximal populations approximating those attained in fresh broth. It was thus concluded that populations of E. coli in broth cultures were limited by exhaustion of all those carbon and energy sources which could be utilized under the prevailing highly reduced conditions. No evidence of inhibitory metabolic end products was found except in broth supplemented with 1% glucose. Partial inhibition of multiplication was noted in the latter medium even when the pH was maintained between 6.9 and 7.2.


Large-Scale Nonequilibrium Molecular Studies of Thermal Hydrate Dissociation.
The energy content of methane hydrate reservoirs (MHRs) is at least twice that of conventional fossil fuels. So, there is considerable interest in their commercial development by heating, among other dissociation mechanisms. However, a few researchers have highlighted the potentially uncontrollable release of methane from MHRs, which could occur because of global warming. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the kinetics of thermal hydrate dissociation to safely develop these resources and prevent the release of this greenhouse gas into the environment. Although there have been several molecular studies of thermal dissociation, most of these use small simulation domains that cannot capture the transient nature of the process. To address this limitation, we performed coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CGMD) simulations on a significantly larger domain with a hundred times more hydrate unit cells than those used in previous studies. We monitored the kinetics of dissociation using an image-processing algorithm and observed the dynamics of the process while maintaining a thermal gradient at the dissociation front. For the first time, we report the formation of an unstable secondary dissociation path that triggers gas bubbles within the solid hydrate. The kinetics of thermal dissociation appears to occur in three stages. In the first stage, the energy of the system increases until it exceeds the activation energy, and dissociation is initiated. Consistent dissociation occurs in the second stage, whereas the third stage involves the dissociation of the remaining hydrates across a nonplanar and heterogeneous interface.


Housing histories of assertive community treatment clients: program impacts and factors associated with residential stability.
Although housing is widely recognized as a crucial issue for people with severe and persistent mental illness, there is much to learn about the ongoing housing experiences of this group of people. Using secondary data, this study examined the housing histories of 65 assertive community treatment (ACT) clients from 2 years prior until up to 7 years after intake, totalling 407 addresses. We used statistical process control to assess the significance and longevity of pre- and post-ACT changes in residential tenure and independent living. We used multivariate survival analysis to explore participant and residence characteristics associated with residential stability. After 6 months in ACT, the client population showed a significant, sustained improvement in housing stability. Similarly, shortly after ACT entry, there was a marked increase in the proportion of participants living independently. At the participant level, substance abuse was the strongest predictor of residential instability; other predictors included age (30 years or younger) and sex (female). Residence characteristics also proved important; independent housing, neighbourhood income (a proxy for housing quality), and receipt of a rental subsidy were associated with significantly longer tenure, controlling for client characteristics. The timing and magnitude of the observed changes imply that ACT was effective in helping clients to achieve stable housing and to live independently. The results also underscore the importance of high-quality housing in promoting residential stability.


An intramolecular Diels-Alder strategy for the asbestinins: enantioselective total syntheses of 11-acetoxy-4-deoxyasbestinin D and asbestinin-12.
The enantioselective total syntheses of 11-acetoxy-4-deoxyasbestinin D and asbestinin-12 have been completed. A glycolate aldol reaction provided a diene useful for ring-closing metathesis to form an oxonene, which was ultimately employed as a template to execute a highly stereoselective intramolecular Diels-Alder cycloaddition, forming the hydroisobenzofuran moiety. The absolute configuration of the asbestinin subclass was confirmed via these synthetic efforts.


Use of negative pressure wound therapy with silver base dressing for necrotizing fasciitis.
Necrotizing fasciitis is a life-threatening infection requiring urgent surgical and medical therapy. Hemodynamic stabilization and antimicrobial therapy precede aggressive surgical excision of necrotic tissue, which should be performed as soon as possible. The rapidly spreading infection and aggressive surgical intervention create challenges for wound management. Multiple dressings are available to address the various challenges associated with management of these wounds; this article discusses negative pressure therapy and antimicrobial dressings in the management of Fournier's gangrene, a form of necrotizing fasciitis that involves tissue of the genital or perianal areas. This article reviews the case of a 56-year-old man with fever, tachycardia, and perianal pain associated with necrotizing fasciitis. Extensive surgical debridement was done on the day of admission. After several irrigations, the wound was dressed by negative pressure wound therapy with a silver dressing that minimized hospital stay and enabled early reconstruction. We found that negative pressure wound therapy with a silver-based dressing promoted wound healing and provided a solid matrix for surgical reconstruction.


Effects of levulinic acid on 5-aminolevulinic acid production in heterotrophic cultures of Chlorella regularis YA-603.
To investigate the effects of levulinic acid (LA) on extracellular 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) accumulation, a heterotrophic culture of Chlorella regularis YA-603 in basal medium containing 0 to 60 mM of LA was carried out. It was found that the extracellular and total ALA concentrations increased, while the chlorophyll (CHL) concentration was the same above initial LA concentrations of 30 mM, with an increasing initial LA concentration up to 50 mM. In the presence of an initial LA concentration of 60 mM, however, the specific growth rate decreased markedly. This suggested that excessive LA exerted a negative effect on ALA production because it also directly affected cellular growth. The relationship between the initial LA and total ALA concentrations mentioned above indicates that LA could promote the ALA-producing activity. Kinetic analysis revealed that an LA concentration of between 30 to 50 mM in the culture broth gave the maximum specific production rate of ALA ((q(ALA))max). When LA was added repeatedly to maintain this optimum range of LA concentration, (q(ALA))max could be maintained at a relatively high level for a longer period, and the maximum concentration of ALA reached 3.86 mM.