Magnetically controlled exchange process in an ultracold atom-dimer mixture.
We report on the observation of an elementary exchange process in an optically trapped ultracold sample of atoms and Feshbach molecules. We can magnetically control the energetic nature of the process and tune it from endoergic to exoergic, enabling the observation of a pronounced threshold behavior. In contrast to relaxation to more deeply bound molecular states, the exchange process does not lead to trap loss. We find excellent agreement between our experimental observations and calculations based on the solutions of three-body Schrödinger equation in the adiabatic hyperspherical representation. The high efficiency of the exchange process is explained by the halo character of both the initial and final molecular states.


Alkylated cytosine nucleosides: substrate and inhibitor properties in enzymatic deamination.
Cytosine nucleoside deaminase (EC 22.214.171.124) from Salmonella typhimurium LT2 catalyses the deamination of ribo-, deoxyribo- and arabinosyl nucleosides of cytosine alkylated at the C-5, but not at the N3 or exocyclic N4, of the pyrimidine ring. The enzyme was inert towards analogues etherified at the 3'-OH and 5'-OH of the sugar ring; it was active against the 2'-O-methyl derivative of cytidine, but not arabinosycytosine. The N4-and 5'-O-alkyl non-substrate analogues competitively inhibited deamination of deoxycytidine and arabinosylcytosine, the most inhibitory being 5'-O-methylarabinosylcytosine. The alpha anomer of 5'-ethyldeoxycytidine, the 2,2'-anhydro derivative of cytidine, and the 3'-O-alkyl derivatives were neither substrates nor inhibitors. The presence of cytidine deaminase was demonstrated in both granulocytes and lymphocytes from human peripheral blood. The specificity of this enzyme differed significantly from that of the bacterial enzyme, a finding of some relevance in relation to the frequently encountered intracellular deamination of therapeutically active arabinosylcytosine to the inactive arabinosyluracil.


Mechanism of augmentation of organotin decomposition by ferripyochelin: formation of hydroxyl radical and organotin-pyochelin-iron ternary complex.
Pyochelin (PCH), a kind of siderophore secreted by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, was recently found to have triphenyltin (TPT)-decomposing capacity. In this work, significant augmentation of TPT decomposition by ferripyochelin (FePCH), the chelating compound of PCH with iron, was demonstrated in Tris-HCl buffer (pH 8.0). The generation of hydroxyl radical (HO.) in the presence of FePCH was observed. Inhibition of HO. generation by adding catalase and HO. scavengers (methanol and dimethyl sulfoxide) decreased TPT decomposition, while an increase in HO. formation in the presence of H(2)O(2) enhanced its decomposition. Our findings indicated that HO. generated in the reaction system was responsible for the enhanced TPT decomposition by FePCH versus PCH. The existence of the TPT-pyochelin-iron ternary complex was demonstrated by electron spray ionization-mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectrometry, and (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance. On the basis of the above results, HO. produced in the presence of FePCH was deduced to be in close proximity to TPT and has more opportunity to attack the Sn-C bond, which resulted in the enhanced organotin decomposition. The information obtained may have considerable environmental significance.


Flat mirror tilt and piston measurement based on structured light reflection.
This paper presents a simple method for flat mirror tilt and piston measurement. The method only needs an LCD screen and a CCD camera. LCD screen displays structured light pattern, and camera takes the pattern's virtual image (VI) reflected by the mirror. Pose relationship between camera coordinate system and VI coordinate system can be calculated by camera calibration. Through coordinate transition, the relative tilt and piston of the mirror can be obtained. This method is simple in both structure and principle, and experiments prove that it can measure the flat mirror tilt for about 1″ accuracy and piston for less than 1um accuracy. And under the guidance of our method, a mirror can be adjusted to a specified pose.


Evidence available for patient-identified priorities in depression research: results of 11 rapid responses.
Patient priority setting projects (PPSPs) can reduce research agenda bias. A key element of PPSPs is a review of available literature to determine if the proposed research priorities have been addressed, identify research gaps, recognise opportunities for knowledge translation (KT) and avoid duplication of research efforts. We conducted rapid responses for 11 patient-identified priorities in depression to provide a map of the existing evidence. Eleven rapid responses. Single electronic database (PubMed). Each rapid response had unique eligibility criteria. For study designs, we used a stepwise inclusion process that started with systematic reviews (SRs) if available, then randomised controlled trials and observational studies as necessary. For all but one of the rapid responses we identified existing SRs (median 7 SRs per rapid response, range 0-179). There were questions where extensive evidence exists (ie, hundreds of primary studies), yet uncertainties remain. For example, there is evidence supporting the effectiveness of many non-pharmacological interventions (including psychological interventions and exercise) to reduce depressive symptoms. However, targeted research is needed that addresses comparative effectiveness of promising interventions, specific populations of interest (eg, children, minority groups) and adverse effects. We identified an extensive body of evidence addressing patient priorities in depression and mapped the results and limitations of existing evidence, areas of uncertainty and general directions for future research. This work can serve as a solid foundation to guide future research in depression and KT activities. Integrated knowledge syntheses bring value to the PPSP process; however, the role of knowledge synthesis in PPSPs and methodological approaches are not well defined at present.


The Lymphatic System: An Osteopathic Review.
Osteopathic principles and philosophy suggest the use of osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) to restore, augment, or facilitate lymphatic fluid flow to maintain body fluid balance, and/or to stimulate immune system responses to aid in the recovery from illness and maintain normal body defense mechanisms. This review provides an osteopathic view of the role of the lymphatic system in health and disease, with an emphasis on the use of OMT to alleviate somatic dysfunctions (SD) that inhibit the optimum function of the lymphatic system. The current evidence base is reviewed for the use of OMT to assist in restoring or augmenting lymphatic system function to help patients recover from illness and maintain health and wellness. An overview is provided on how osteopathic principles and philosophy relative to the immune system are applied in practice. A literature search was conducted using databases such as Medline, PubMed, Ostmed-DR, and Scopus, focusing on osteopathic approaches to the lymphatic system. Keywords used included osteopathic manipulative medicine, OMT, and lymphatic manual treatment or therapy. Current osteopathic textbook information was also surveyed. There is support for the application of osteopathic principles and OMT for certain conditions that involve the lymphatic system. More prospective research is needed.


Sterol 14 alpha-demethylase, an abundant and essential mixed-function oxidase.
Sterol 14alpha-demethylase (CYP51) is the most widely distributed of all members of the cytochrome P450 gene superfamily and the only CYP family found in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. It is well known as a drug target for microbial pathogenic infections. Studies of CYP51 gene regulation have been carried out primarily in animals because its regulation is similar to those of other genes involved in the cholesterol biosynthetic pathway. The function of CYP51 has been studied widely throughout biology including in animals, plants, yeast/fungi, protozoa, and bacteria. The structure has been determined by X-ray crystallography for the soluble prokaryotic form of CYP51 from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Together these studies provide the most detailed understanding of any single cytochrome P450 and this minireview summarizes this information.


Feature attention for binocular disparity in primate area MT depends on tuning strength.
Attending to a stimulus modulates the responses of sensory neurons that represent features of that stimulus, a phenomenon named "feature attention." For example, attending to a stimulus containing upward motion enhances the responses of upward-preferring direction-selective neurons in the middle temporal area (MT) and suppresses the responses of downward-preferring neurons, even when the attended stimulus is outside of the spatial receptive fields of the recorded neurons (Treue S, Martinez-Trujillo JC. Nature 399: 575-579, 1999). This modulation renders the representation of sensory information across a neuronal population more selective for the features present in the attended stimulus (Martinez-Trujillo JC, Treue S. Curr Biol 14: 744-751, 2004). We hypothesized that if feature attention modulates neurons according to their tuning preferences, it should also be sensitive to their tuning strength, which is the magnitude of the difference in responses to preferred and null stimuli. We measured how the effects of feature attention on MT neurons in rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) depended on the relationship between features-in our case, direction of motion and binocular disparity-of the attended stimulus and a neuron's tuning for those features. We found that, as for direction, attention to stimuli containing binocular disparity cues modulated the responses of MT neurons and that the magnitude of the modulation depended on both a neuron's tuning preferences and its tuning strength. Our results suggest that modulation by feature attention may depend not just on which features a neuron represents but also on how well the neuron represents those features.


Navigating the plant cell: intracellular transport logistics in the green kingdom.
Intracellular transport in plant cells occurs on microtubular and actin arrays. Cytoplasmic streaming, the rapid motion of plant cell organelles, is mostly driven by an actin-myosin mechanism, whereas specialized functions, such as the transport of large cargo or the assembly of a new cell wall during cell division, are performed by the microtubules. Different modes of transport are used, fast and slow, to either haul cargo over long distances or ascertain high-precision targeting, respectively. Various forms of the actin-specific motor protein myosin XI exist in plant cells and might be involved in different cellular functions.


Tuning the Protein Phosphorylation by Receptor Type Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Epsilon (PTPRE) in Normal and Cancer Cells.
Tyrosine phosphorylation is an important post-translation modification of proteins that is controlled by tyrosine kinases and phosphatases. Disruption of the balance between the activity of tyrosine kinases and phosphatases may result in diseases. Receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase epsilon (PTPRE) is closely related with receptor type protein tyrosine phosphatase alpha (PTPRA). PTPRE has been studied in osteoclast cells, nerve cells, hematopoietic cells, cancer cells and others, and it has different functions among various tissues. In this review, we summarized the current knowledge about the regulation of PTPRE on cellular signal transduction and its function under normal and pathological conditions.


Effects of ethanol, potassium metabisulfite, formaldehyde and hydrogen peroxide on gastric carcinogenesis in rats after initiation with N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine.
Ethanol, potassium metabisulfite, formaldehyde and hydrogen peroxide were tested for tumor-promoting activity in a two-stage stomach carcinogenesis experiment. Male outbred Wistar rats were given N-methyl-N'-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) in the drinking water (100 mg/liter) and a diet supplemented with 10% sodium chloride for 8 weeks. Thereafter, they were maintained on drinking water containing either 10% ethanol, 1% potassium metabisulfite, 0.5% formalin (formaldehyde) or 1% hydrogen peroxide for 32 weeks and then sacrificed for necropsy and histological examination. In the pylorus of the glandular stomach, potassium metabisulfite and formaldehyde significantly increased the incidence of adenocarcinoma after initiation with MNNG and sodium chloride. Hydrogen peroxide did not enhance the tumor yield, and ethanol showed a tendency to decrease neoplastic development. In the forestomach the incidence of squamous cell papilloma was significantly increased in the groups given hydrogen peroxide or formaldehyde, irrespective of prior initiation. Duodenal adenocarcinoma was induced by the initiation alone (10%) and the incidence was not affected by the subsequent treatments. The results indicate that potassium metabisulfite and formaldehyde both exert tumor-promoting activity in the rat glandular stomach.


Synchrotron X-ray Study of Iron at High Pressure and Temperature.
X-ray synchrotron experiments with in situ laser heating of iron in a diamond-anvil cell show that the high-pressure epsilon phase, a hexagonal close-packed (hcp) structure, transforms to another phase (possibly a polytype double-layer hcp) at a pressure of about 38 gigapascals and at temperatures between 1200 and 1500 kelvin. This information has implications for the phase relations of iron in Earth's core.


The Walsh-Hadamard transform: an alternative means of obtaining phase and amplitude maps.
Currently, Fourier analysis is a method for obtaining the phase and amplitude images used to evaluate abnormalities of cardiac contraction. Since this technique is time-consuming, the present work investigates the application of another algorithm used in digital signal processing: the Walsh- Hadamard transform ( WHT ). This method provides a 48% time saving because it requires only elementary algebraic operations. The study presents the results obtained processing 30 blood-pool cardiac acquisitions in various diseases. No significant difference was found in the pairs of maps and in the parameters chosen for comparison of the data.


Wunderlich's syndrome (spontaneous renal haemorrhage).
Wunderlich's syndrome is a rare condition characterised by spontaneous non-traumatic renal haemorrhage into the subcapsular and perirenal space. The commonest cause of Wunderlich's syndrome is renal neoplasms, with angiomyolipoma and renal cell carcinoma being the most common benign and malignant lesions, respectively. We report a case of Wunderlich's syndrome in a 46-year-old woman. She presented in the emergency department with the chief complaints of sudden onset of abdominal pain with no significant medical history. Imaging findings and clinical history led to the diagnosis of Wunderlich's syndrome. The patient underwent left partial nephrectomy and recovered without any complications. She is presently doing well.


Tackling maladaptive memories through reconsolidation: From neural to clinical science.
Behavioral neuroscience has greatly informed how we understand the formation, persistence, and plasticity of memory. Research has demonstrated that memory reactivation can induce a labile period, during which previously consolidated memories are sensitive to change, and in need of restabilization. This process is known as reconsolidation. Such findings have advanced not only our basic understanding of memory processes, but also hint at the prospect of harnessing these insights for the development of a new generation of treatments for disorders of emotional memory. However, even in simple experimental models, the conditions for inducing memory reconsolidation are complex: memory labilization appears to result from the interplay of learning history, reactivation, and also individual differences, posing difficulties for the translation of basic experimental research into effective clinical interventions. In this paper, we review a selection of influential animal and human research on memory reconsolidation to illustrate key insights these studies afford. We then consider how these findings can inform the development of new treatment approaches, with a particular focus on the transition of memory from reactivation, to reconsolidation, to new memory formation, as well as highlighting possible limitations of experimental models. If the challenges of translational research can be overcome, and if reconsolidation-based procedures become a viable treatment option, then they would be one of the first mental health treatments to be directly derived from basic neuroscience research. This would surely be a triumph for the scientific study of mind and brain.


Sex-specific spatial use of the winter foraging areas by Magellanic penguins and assessment of potential conflicts with fisheries during winter dispersal.
Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) disperse widely during winter and are a major consumer of marine resources over the Patagonian Shelf. Magellanic penguins were equipped with geolocators at Martillo Island in late February- early March 2017 and recaptured at the beginning of the next breeding season to recover the devices and to collect blood samples for stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope analysis. We evaluated their whole winter dispersal and their trophic niche by sex during the last month of the winter dispersal. Also, we evaluated their spatial overlap with bottom trawl and shrimp fisheries using data from satellite fisheries monitoring. Penguins dispersed northwards up to 42°S and showed latitudinal spatial segregation between sexes during May to August (females were located further north than males). In contrast, during the last month of the winter dispersal females were located more southerly and showed lower trophic position than males. Also, females did not dive as deep as males during winter. We found high overlap between both fisheries and penguin's spatial use in regions with documented interaction. However, no sex-specific statistical differences with fisheries overlap were found. Our results highlight the importance of understanding the spatial domains of each sex and assessment of their potential conflicts with bottom trawl fishery and shrimp fishery during the winter period.


Yeast-Based Synthetic Biology Platform for Antimicrobial Peptide Production.
Antibiotic resistance is one of the most challenging global health threats in our society. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent promising alternatives to conventional antibiotics for the treatment of drug-resistant infections. However, they are limited by their high manufacturing cost. Engineering living organisms represents a promising approach to produce such molecules in an inexpensive manner. Here, we genetically modified the yeast Pichia pastoris to produce the prototypical AMP apidaecin Ia using a fusion protein approach that leverages the beneficial properties ( e.g., stability) of human serum albumin. The peptide was successfully isolated from the fusion protein construct, purified, and demonstrated to have bioactivity against Escherichia coli. To demonstrate this approach as a manufacturing solution to AMPs, we scaled-up production in bioreactors to generate high AMP yields. We envision that this system could lead to improved AMP biomanufacturing platforms.


An alternative cytoplasmic domain of the integrin beta 3 subunit.
A cDNA encoding a new form of the shared beta subunit (beta 3) of the platelet integrin gpIIb/IIIa and the vitronectin receptor was isolated from a placental cDNA library by screening with a beta 3 (gpIIIa) DNA probe. This beta 3 variant differs from the previously reported beta 3 in that the cytoplasmic domain is 8 amino acids shorter and has an alternative, 13-amino acid COOH-terminal peptide. The 3' untranslated region of the cDNA also differs from the previously reported sequence, while the region coding for the transmembrane domain and extracellular domain is identical to it. Reverse transcription combined with polymerase chain reaction was used to show that human placental tissue and two human cell lines contain the variant mRNA. The sequences of the cDNAs for the previously known beta 3 and the variant beta 3 described here suggest that the difference between the cytoplasmic domains of these subunits arises as a result of an alternative mRNA splicing. These cytoplasmic domains may provide alternative means for the beta 3 integrins to interact with cytoskeletal components.


Spontaneous coronary artery dissection: case report and review of literature.
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an unusual cause of acute coronary syndrome or sudden cardiac death. SCAD has most frequently been described as presenting as an acute coronary syndrome in females during the peripartum period. It may also be associated with autoimmune and collagen vascular diseases, Marfan's syndrome, chest trauma, and intense physical exercise. The most common presentation of SCAD is the acute onset of severe chest pain associated with autonomic symptoms. This condition has a high mortality rate if not identified and treated promptly. Here, we present a case of SCAD presenting with stroke, followed by a brief review.


Lipopolysaccharide and hypoxia/ischemia induced IL-2 expression by microglia in neonatal brain.
Using a model of perinatal brain lesions induced by lipopolysaccharide and hypoxia/ischemia, we hypothesized that interleukin-2 (IL-2), a neurotoxic cytokine, was enhanced within injured brains. We showed that lipopolysaccharide and hypoxia/ischemia enhanced both intracerebral IL-2 mRNA and protein levels, with a maximum increase upon lipopolysaccharide and hypoxia/ischemia. The lack of detectable T lymphocytes suggested the synthesis of IL-2 by neural cells. Lipopolysaccharide and hypoxia triggered IL-2 synthesis by cultured microglia with a peak after exposure to lipopolysaccharide and hypoxia. Double-labeling showed, in vivo and in vitro, that IL-2 immunoreactivity was colocalized with a microglia/macrophage marker. These results disclosed the ability of microglia to produce IL-2 and also suggest the implication of IL-2 in neural cell death triggered by perinatal lipopolysaccharide and hypoxia/ischemia exposures.


Intranasal delivery of N-terminal modified leptin-pluronic conjugate for treatment of obesity.
Leptin is an adipocyte-secreted hormone that is delivered via a specific transport system across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) to the brain where it acts on the hypothalamus receptors to control appetite and thermogenesis. Peripheral resistance to leptin due to its impaired brain delivery prevents therapeutic use of leptin in overweight and moderately obese patients. To address this problem, we modified the N-terminal amine of leptin with Pluronic P85 (LepNP85) and administered this conjugate intranasally using the nose-to-brain (INB) route to bypass the BBB. We compared this conjugate with the native leptin, the N-terminal leptin conjugate with poly(ethylene glycol) (LepNPEG5K), and two conjugates of leptin with Pluronic P85 attached randomly to the lysine amino groups of the hormone. Compared to the random conjugates of leptin with P85, LepNP85 has shown higher affinity upon binding with the leptin receptor, and similarly to native hormone activated hypothalamus receptors after direct injection into brain. After INB delivery, LepNP85 conjugate was transported to the brain and accumulated in the hypothalamus and hippocampus to a greater extent than the native leptin and LepNPEG5K and activated leptin receptors in hypothalamus at lower dose than native leptin. Our work suggests that LepNP85 can access the brain directly after INB delivery and confirms our hypothesis that the improvement in brain accumulation of this conjugate is due to its enhanced brain absorption. In conclusion, the LepNP85 with optimized conjugation chemistry is a promising candidate for treatment of obesity.


Histological study of seventeen organs from dugong (Dugong dugon).
Dugongs are marine mammals with a crescent-shaped tail fluke and a concave trailing margin that belong to the family Dugongidae., They are distributed widely in the warm coastal waters of the Indo-Pacific region. Importantly, the population of dugongs has decreased over the past decades as they have been classified as rare marine mammals. Previous studies have investigated the habitat and genetic diversity of dugongs. However, a comprehensive histological investigation of their tissue has not yet been conducted. This study provides unique insight into the organs of dugongs and compares them with other mammal species. Tissue sections were stained with Harris's hematoxylin and eosin Y. The histological structure of 17 organ tissues obtained from eight systems was included in this study. Tissue sections were obtained from the urinary system (kidney), muscular system (striated skeletal muscle and smooth muscle), cardiovascular system (cardiac muscle (ventricle), coronary artery, and coronary vein), respiratory system (trachea and lung), gastrointestinal system (esophagus, stomach, small intestine, liver, and pancreas), reproductive system (testis), lymphatic system (spleen and thymus), and endocrine system (pancreas). While most structures were similar to those of other mammal species, there were some differences in the tissue sections of dugongs when compared with other mammalian species and manatees. These include the kidneys of dugongs, which were non-lobular and had a smooth, elongated exterior resulting in a long medullary crest, whereas the dugong pyloric epithelium did not have overlying stratified squamous cells and was noticably different from the Florida manatee. Histological information obtained from various organs of the dugong can serve as an essential foundation of basal data for future microanatomical studies. This information can also be used as high-value data in the diagnosis and pathogenesis of sick dugongs or those with an unknown cause of death.


Identification of rare mutations of the vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor 2 gene in schizophrenia.
Studies showed that rare copy number variations (CNVs) encompassing the vasoactive intestinal peptide receptor 2 gene (VIPR2) were associated with schizophrenia, indicating VIPR2 is a risk gene for schizophrenia. We hypothesized that besides CNV, rare pathogenic single-nucleotide variant (SNV) or small insertion/deletion (Indel) of VIPR2 might be present in some patients and contribute to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia. We performed genome-wide CNV analysis to screen CNV at the VIPR2 locus and targeted sequencing of all the exons of VIPR2 to search for SNV and indel in a sample of patients with chronic schizophrenia from Taiwan. We detected a 230-kb microduplication encompassing the VIPR2 in 1 out of 200 patients. Furthermore, we identified six ultrarare SNVs, including one splicing SNV and five missense SNVs, in 516 patients. In-silico analyses showed these SNVs had a damaging effect on the function of VIPR2. Our findings support the idea that besides CNV, rare pathogenic SNVs of VIPR2 might contribute to the pathogenesis of schizophrenia in some patients.


The Association of Dietary Behaviors and Physical Activity Levels with General and Central Obesity among ASEAN University Students.
To quantify the prevalence of obesity and obesity-related factors (dietary behaviors and physical activity levels) in a cross-sectional, observational study of ASEAN undergraduate students. A total of 6783 (35.5% male and 64.5% female) undergraduate students (Mean age: 20.5, SD = 2.0) from eight ASEAN countries completed questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) for the association of nutrition behaviors with prevalence of general obesity (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2), elevated waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) (>0.50), and high waist circumference (WC) (≥80 cm in females, ≥90 cm in males). Covariates included sociodemographic factors, dietary behavior, physical activity and sitting time (using the "International Physical Activity Questionnaire"). There was a higher prevalence of general obesity (24.2% versus 9.3%), and high WHtR (16.6% versus 12.1) in males relative to females, while high WC (9.4% versus 10.4%) did not significantly differ between genders. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, compared to females, males had higher odds of obesity (odds-ratio, OR: 2.13, confidence interval, CI: 1.80, 2.77), and high WHtR (OR: 1.90, CI: 1.48, 2.43) (P < 0.001 for both). Snacking frequency and avoiding fatty foods were associated with all three obesity indicators; obesity (OR: 1.16, CI: 1.05, 1.28 and OR: 1.54, CI: 1.24, 1.92, respectively), WHtR (OR: 1.17, CI: 1.04, 1.32 and OR: 1.46, CI: 1.04, 1.54), and high WC (OR: 1.16, CI: 2.01, 1.33 and OR 1.52, CI: 1.14, 2.04, respectively). Physical activity and sedentary behavior were not significantly associated with any obesity measure. There was a low prevalence of healthy behaviors and a high prevalence of obesity in this sample of ASEAN young adults. Specific dietary behaviors but not physical activity nor sedentary behavior were associated with obesity.


Cloning and sequence analysis of the Erythrina corallodendron lectin cDNA.
Examination of the hemagglutinating activity of extracts from seeds of Erythrina corallodendron at various maturation stages revealed that the level of lectin increases markedly past mid-maturation. Seeds at this stage of maturation served as a source of mRNA for the construction of an expression cDNA library in the vector lambda Zap, which generates fusion proteins with an N-terminal portion of beta-galactosidase. The library was screened with rabbit polyclonal anti-ECorL antiserum. Four immunopositive clones were isolated. Western blot analysis of cell extracts from one of the clones (pIEcL-B) showed a 36 kDa protein that reacted with the antiserum, as well as with a mouse monoclonal antibody raised against the lectin. DNA sequence analysis by the chain termination method revealed that clone pIEcl-C has an insert of 1017 bp with the entire coding sequence of ECorL, beginning with an initiation codon ATG at position 26 and ending with stop codon TAA at position 868. This fragment encodes a polypeptide of 281 amino acids consisting of a signal leader sequence of 25 amino acids and a mature protein of 256 amino acids. The deduced amino acid sequence from this fragment is identical to the sequence of the first 244 amino acids of ECorL, as determined at the protein level, except at 7 positions.


Using intravascular ultrasound with drug-eluting stents. What have we learned so far?
Drug-eluting stents (DES) promise to change the landscape of interventional cardiology, overcoming restenosis that is the major limitation of percutaneous coronary interventions. Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) examination has been at the centre of our efforts to understand the mechanisms and define different treatment strategies during coronary interventions. IVUS interrogation and 3-dimensional IVUS measurements have been used to better define the mechanisms of benefit and potential drawbacks of DES. The findings of these studies are summarized in this article and the potential importance of IVUS in the era of DES is discussed. Evidence of neointimal hyperplasia (IH) suppression and assessment of any edge effect or vessel remodeling after implantation of DES has been evaluated by IVUS. The overall clinical importance of IVUS in the new era will depend on the amount and the clinical significance of any unsolved questions we will face and on its ability to provide answers to the evolving questions.


Food intake in laboratory rats provided standard and fenbendazole-supplemented diets.
The benzimidazole anthelmintic fenbendazole (FBZ) is a common and effective treatment for pinworm infestation in laboratory animal colonies. Although many investigators have examined the potential for deleterious biologic effects of FBZ, more subtle aspects of the treatment remain untested. Accordingly, we evaluated differences in food intake when healthy male Sprague-Dawley rats were provided a standard nonmedicated laboratory rodent chow or the same chow supplemented with FBZ. We also tested for a preference for either food type when subjects were provided a choice of the 2 diets. Data from these experiments showed no differences in food intake or body weight when rats were maintained on either standard or FBZ-supplemented chow. When the rats were given access to both the standard and FBZ-supplemented diets, they showed a clear preference for the standard diet. The preference for the standard diet indicates that the rats can discriminate between the 2 foods and may avoid the FBZ-supplemented chow when possible. Investigators conducting experiments during treatment with FBZ in which differences in food preference are relevant should be aware of these data and plan their studies accordingly.


Differential effects of water loss and temperature increase on the physiology of fiddler crabs from distinct habitats.
Temperature is one of the main environmental constraints to organism distribution, affecting physiology and survival. Organisms that inhabit the intertidal zone are exposed to temperature variation and, with climate change, they should face different conditions which include higher temperatures, leading to higher rates of water loss through evaporation and then fitness reduction or mortality. Here we tested the effects of desiccation and increased temperature in two fiddler crabs species that occupy distinct habitats in regard to vegetation cover and position on the intertidal zone and thus may respond differently to these stressors. Leptuca thayeri, which is restricted to the mid-tide zone and vegetated areas, had higher desiccation and mortality rates than Minuca rapax, a generalist species, when exposed to desiccation for 120 min. Also, compared to M. rapax, L. thayeri had a more permeable carapace. Temperature elevation of 10 °C and 20 °C for 72 h caused no mortality in either species. However, there were changes in hemolymph osmolality and muscle hydration in both species. Leptuca thayeri osmolality was low in the intermediate temperature, suggesting that at this temperature this species has a better salt secretion capability. Minuca rapax, however, had an increase in hemolymph osmolality at the highest temperatures with no LDH increase, which indicates that osmotic control in this species is more sensitive to temperature increase. Our results show that L. thayeri suffers more from desiccation, due to a more permeable carapace. However, because of this higher permeability L. thayeri is capable of lowering its temperature more than M. rapax. As temperature elevation produces great physiological changes in M. rapax, a reduced ability to keep a low temperature can be an issue for this species if temperature increases. However, higher water loss to keep body temperature low may decrease L. thayeri survivability in the same scenario.


ScaleUp: middleware for intelligent environments.
The development of the Internet of Things (IoT) expands to an ultra-large-scale, which provides numerous services across different domains and environments. The use of middleware eases application development by providing the necessary functional capability. This paper presents a new form of middleware for controlling smart devices installed in an intelligent environment. This new form of middleware functioned seamlessly with any manufacturer API or bespoke controller program. It acts as an all-encompassing top layer of middleware in an intelligent environment control system capable of handling numerous different types of devices simultaneously. This protected de-synchronization of data stored in clone devices. It showed that in this middleware, the clone devices were regularly synchronized with their original master such as locally stored representations were continuously updated with the known true state values.


Interferon induces interleukin 8 and bone marrow stromal cell antigen 2 expression, inhibiting the production of hepatitis B virus surface antigen from human hepatocytes.
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen (HBsAg) loss is one of the treatment goals of chronic HBV infection. Bone marrow stromal cell antigen 2 (BST2) is one of the interferon (IFN)-stimulated genes (ISGs) and inhibits the release of various enveloped viruses. Here we examined the effects of antiviral treatment on HBsAg levels and its intracellular mechanism in HBsAg-producing hepatocytes. In PLC/PRF/5 and Huh1, IFNα-2a treatment decreased HBsAg levels in their conditioned media. Upregulation of interleukin 8 (IL8), toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) and interferon gamma-induced protein 10 (IP10) mRNAs was associated with the reduction of HBsAg in both PLC/PRF/5 and Huh1. The HBsAg level was upregulated by knockdown of IL8, TLR2 or IP10. Exogenous addition of IL8 enhanced BST2 promoter activity and BST2 mRNA expression. Additionally, knockdown of IL8 could lead to the downregulation of BST2 mRNA. Transfection of poly(I-C) enhanced IL8 and BST2 mRNA expression and inhibited HBsAg secretion from PLC/PRF/5 cells. In conclusion, IL8 might play an important role in the enhancement of BST2 and be involved in HBsAg eradication.


Micellar control over tautomerization and photo-induced electron transfer of Lumichrome in the presence of aliphatic and aromatic amines: a transient absorption study.
Lumichrome (Lc), a molecule consisting of a trinuclear alloxazine moiety is our present subject of interest. This molecule is subjected to tautomerization in the presence of pyridine, acetic acid, etc, through the formation of an eight-membered ring. In our present contribution, we have attempted to analyze the influence of the presence of an aliphatic amine, triethylamine (TEA) and an aromatic amine, N,N-dimethylaniline (DMA) in the double proton transfer step of the tautomerization as well as the photo-induced electron transfer (PET) from those amines to Lc. We have studied these phenomena within micelles, anionic and neutral, to observe the effect of confinement. Through our experiments, it could be stated that along with tautomerization and proton transfer, there is also evidence of PET in triplet excited state.


Epidemiology of asthma in western Europe.
Asthma deaths are uncommon, but have recently increased in some countries due to problems in the management of the disease. Morbidity rates show large variations, which can be attributed to differences in defining the disease, but also to genuine variations, with a trend towards less asthma in northern Europe. It has been suggested that allergic diseases as a whole, and asthma in particular, may exhibit an upward secular trend. Risk factors include a genetic background and environmental triggering factors. The importance of genetic factors is illustrated by family studies and by extreme prevalence rates observed in some communities. Environmental factors include rapid air pollution variations which act as a trigger for asthma attacks. However, at levels currently prevailing in western Europe, air pollutants do not induce a higher incidence of asthma. Altitude generates a gradual decrease in Dermatophagoides, thus explaining both the clinical improvement in asthmatics living in altitude and a lower prevalence of asthma in populations born and living there. Among the other aero-allergens, grass pollens plays a major role in spring, elicitating asthma attacks. Some natural allergens transformed by man (castor bean, soja) can be responsible for asthma epidemics.


Racial and ethnic residential segregation, the neighborhood socioeconomic environment, and obesity among Blacks and Mexican Americans.
We used cross-sectional data on 2,660 black and 2,611 Mexican-American adult participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999-2006) to investigate the association between metropolitan-level racial/ethnic residential segregation and obesity and to determine whether it was mediated by the neighborhood socioeconomic environment. Residential segregation was measured using the black and Hispanic isolation indices. Neighborhood poverty and negative income incongruity were assessed as mediators. Multilevel Poisson regression with robust variance estimates was used to estimate prevalence ratios. There was no relationship between segregation and obesity among men. Among black women, in age-, nativity-, and metropolitan demographic-adjusted models, high segregation was associated with a 1.29 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00, 1.65) times higher obesity prevalence than was low segregation; medium segregation was associated with a 1.35 (95% CI: 1.07, 1.70) times higher obesity prevalence. Mexican-American women living in high versus low segregation areas had a significantly lower obesity prevalence (prevalence ratio, 0.54; 95% CI: 0.33, 0.90), but there was no difference between those living in medium versus low segregation areas. These associations were not mediated by neighborhood poverty or negative income incongruity. These findings suggest variability in the interrelationships between residential segregation and obesity for black and Mexican-American women.


Genetic population structure of local populations of the endangered saltmarsh sesarmid crab Clistocoeloma sinense in Japan.
During recent decades, over 40% of Japanese estuarine tidal flats have been lost due to coastal developments. Local populations of the saltmarsh sesarmid crab Clistocoeloma sinense, designated as an endangered species due to the limited suitable saltmarsh habitat available, have decreased accordingly, being now represented as small remnant populations. Several such populations in Tokyo Bay, have been recognised as representing distributional limits of the species. To clarify the genetic diversity and connectivity among local coastal populations of Japanese Clistocoeloma sinense, including those in Tokyo Bay, mitochondrial DNA analyses were conducted in the hope of providing fundamental information for future conservation studies and an understanding of metapopulation dynamics through larval dispersal among local populations. All of the populations sampled indicated low levels of genetic diversity, which may have resulted from recent population bottlenecks or founder events. However, the results also revealed clear genetic differentiation between two enclosed-water populations in Tokyo Bay and Ise-Mikawa Bay, suggesting the existence of a barrier to larval transport between these two water bodies. Since the maintenance of genetic connectivity is a requirement of local population stability, the preservation of extant habitats and restoration of saltmarshes along the coast of Japan may be the most effective measures for conservation of this endangered species.


Personality disorders in adolescence.
Adult personality disorders are well recognized and described in the literature. The discussion about the possibility of the presence of personality disorders in adolescents started about 20 years ago. Some authors claim the before the age of 18 it is only possible to identify precursors of future personality disorders and such a standpoint is reflected in diagnostic criteria. This is based on the assumption that personality in adolescence is still not well established. Consequently, the criterion on the persistence of symptoms for the period of time cannot be met (the persistence of symptoms of personality disorders for the period of at least two years). Other approach postulates that problems presented in adolescence should not be exclusively limited to Axis I according to DSM. The proponents of this approach claim that current diagnostic tools are not adjusted to adolescents, thus it is very difficult to measure stability and persistence of symptoms in this age group. This paper presents literature review on personality disorders in adolescence.


Correction of apparent finite size effects in the area per lipid of lipid membranes simulations.
Molecular dynamics simulations of lipids bilayers have reported that the average area per lipid increases with the size of the simulated unit cell under constant temperature, pressure, and number of molecules. Here we show that the cause of this finite size effect are artifacts associated with the heat bath coupling. This can be corrected by coupling individually each degree of freedom to the heat bath, instead of coupling globally the system. We present the results of the investigation on three aspects of molecular dynamics simulations and their effect on the computed average area per lipid: (I) the accuracy in the computation of electrostatic interactions, the energy, and the virial, (II) long range Lennard-Jones interactions for systems with symmetry in one plane, and (III) thermodynamic baths. We show that the average area per lipid remains constant for simulations of systems containing 32, 64, and 256 lipids.


Host-specific enzyme-substrate interactions in SPM-1 metallo-β-lactamase are modulated by second sphere residues.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most virulent and resistant non-fermenting Gram-negative pathogens in the clinic. Unfortunately, P. aeruginosa has acquired genes encoding metallo-β-lactamases (MβLs), enzymes able to hydrolyze most β-lactam antibiotics. SPM-1 is an MβL produced only by P. aeruginosa, while other MβLs are found in different bacteria. Despite similar active sites, the resistance profile of MβLs towards β-lactams changes from one enzyme to the other. SPM-1 is unique among pathogen-associated MβLs in that it contains "atypical" second sphere residues (S84, G121). Codon randomization on these positions and further selection of resistance-conferring mutants was performed. MICs, periplasmic enzymatic activity, Zn(II) requirements, and protein stability was assessed. Our results indicated that identity of second sphere residues modulates the substrate preferences and the resistance profile of SPM-1 expressed in P. aeruginosa. The second sphere residues found in wild type SPM-1 give rise to a substrate selectivity that is observed only in the periplasmic environment. These residues also allow SPM-1 to confer resistance in P. aeruginosa under Zn(II)-limiting conditions, such as those expected under infection. By optimizing the catalytic efficiency towards β-lactam antibiotics, the enzyme stability and the Zn(II) binding features, molecular evolution meets the specific needs of a pathogenic bacterial host by means of substitutions outside the active site.


Transtympanic iontophoresis with a biocompatible paramagnetic solution at MR imaging: experimental feasibility study in rabbits.
To determine the feasibility of transtympanic iontophoresis in experimental animals with a paramagnetic contrast agent at magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Optimal MR sequence parameters and appropriate paramagnetic ion concentrations of a water and gadopentetate dimeglumine solution were initially assessed with phantoms. Iontophoresis was performed in left ears of five rabbits after the external auditory canals were filled with a solution of water and gadopentetate dimeglumine of optimal concentration, and right ears were used as controls. Signal-to-structural noise ratio (SSNR) and contrast-to-structural noise ratio (CSNR) were measured by using regions of interest, and the overall image quality was assessed subjectively. Spin-echo (SE) MR sequences were superior to gradient-echo (GRE) MR sequences in terms of SSNR, CSNR, and overall image quality. Highest SSNR and CSNR values were achieved with 2 mmol/L (2 mM) of gadopentetate dimeglumine solution with both SE (repetition time msec/echo time msec, 500/12; flip angle, 90 degrees ) and GRE (300/10; flip angle, 90 degrees ) sequences in both phantoms and animals. The high signal intensity of gadopentetate dimeglumine solution was recognized in middle ears, vestibules, and semicircular canals of all rabbit ears that had undergone iontophoresis and in none of the control ears. With the solution of water and gadopentetate dimeglumine, the maximum SSNR and CSNR with both SE and GRE MR imaging sequences were achieved. The solution can be transferred to the middle and inner ear cavities across an intact tympanic membrane by using transtympanic iontophoresis.


Effects of cage density and diet energy concentration on the performance of growing Leghorn pullets subjected to early induced maturity.
Leghorn pullets of a commercial strain were cage-reared at densities of 293 or 586 cm2/bird. Diet treatments consisted of a control step-down protein program, a reverse-protein program, and two treatments involving 18% crude protein throughout rearing with modification of texture and energy concentration according to bird age. Thus, one treatment involved a crumbled low-energy diet to 10 weeks, followed by a crumbled high-energy diet to 16 weeks, while the alternate series involved a mash low-energy diet to 10 weeks followed by the crumbled high-energy diet to 16 weeks. Birds were weighed periodically throughout rearing and, when they were subsequently moved to laying cages, light was immediately increased from 8 to 14 hr. Irrespective of diet treatment, the more liberal density of 586 cm2/bird resulted in a 5 to 8% increase in feed intake (P less than .01). However, this increased intake was not associated with increased body weight (P greater than .05), and as confirmed by carcass analysis, it is assumed that this increased nutrient intake relates to increased maintenance requirement associated with bird activity. Birds offered the crumbled vs. mash high-energy diet to 10 weeks of age, consumed more feed (P less than .01), although change of diet texture from mash to crumble at 10 weeks failed to stimulate appetite. Also, birds reared on either the step-up energy programs were similar in weight to control-reared birds at 16 weeks of age.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Determination of cyproterone acetate in plasma samples by high-performance liquid chromatography.
A rapid and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination of cyproterone acetate in human plasma has been developed. The chromatographic separation was performed on an analytical mbondapak C8 column (125 yen 4.6 mm, i.d) with an isocratic mobile phase consisting of methanol-water (62.38 v/v). Using ultra violet detection at 282 nm, the detection limit for cyproterone acetate in plasma was 10 ng/ml. The calibration curve was linear over the concentration range 50-160. 0 ng/ml. Cyproterone was isolated from plasma by liquid-liquid extraction and the recovery was about 90% for plasma. The inter-day and intra-day assay coefficients of variation were found to be less than 10%.


Systematic review regarding metabolic profiling for improved pathophysiological understanding of disease and outcome prediction in respiratory infections.
Metabolic profiling through targeted quantification of a predefined subset of metabolites, performed by mass spectrometric analytical techniques, allows detailed investigation of biological pathways and thus may provide information about the interaction of different organic systems, ultimately improving understanding of disease risk and prognosis in a variety of diseases. Early risk assessment, in turn, may improve patient management in regard to cite-of-care decisions and treatment modalities. Within this review, we focus on the potential of metabolic profiling to improve our pathophysiological understanding of disease and management of patients. We focus thereby on lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) including community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), an important disease responsible for high mortality, morbidity and costs worldwide. Observational data from numerous clinical and experimental studies have provided convincing data linking metabolic blood biomarkers such as lactate, glucose or cortisol to patient outcomes. Also, identified through metabolomic studies, novel innovative metabolic markers such as steroid hormones, biogenic amines, members of the oxidative status, sphingo- and glycerophospholipids, and trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) have shown promising results. Since many uncertainties remain in predicting mortality in these patients, further prospective and retrospective observational studies are needed to uncover metabolic pathways responsible for mortality associated with LRTI. Improved understanding of outcome-specific metabolite signatures in LRTIs may optimize patient management strategies, provide potential new targets for future individual therapy, and thereby improve patients' chances for survival.


Characterization of 50wt%SiO2-20wt%P2O5-30wt%CaO glass-ceramic powders prepared by the sol-gel process.
Glass-ceramic powders with the oxide batch formulation 50wt%SiO2, 20wt%P2O5 and 30wt%CaO were prepared by the sol-gel process using tetraethoxysilane, calcium nitrate and phosphoric acid as raw materials. The obtained gels and powders were characterized by TG-DTA thermal analysis, FTIR analyses and XRD measurements. The results indicated that (1) heating to more than 600 degrees C brought about elimination of -OC2H5 side chains from gels, and formation of a SiO2-based glass network, (2) crystallization such as Ca3(PO4)2 notably occurred in the SiO2-based glass matrix when heated to more than 900 degrees C, (3) -OH groups existed on SiO2-based glass-ceramic surfaces in the temperature region less than 900 degrees C, and (4) the melting point of this composition was more than 1400 degrees C. This study suggests that sol-gel-derived SiO2-based glass-ceramic powder containing P and Ca might be useful as bioactive implant materials.


The Effect of 3D Printing Metal Materials on Osteoporosis Treatment.
3D printing has been in use for a long time and has continued to contribute to breakthroughs in the fields of clinical, physical, and rehabilitation medicine. In order to evaluate the role of 3D printing technology in treating spinal disorders, this paper presents a systematic review of the relevant literature. 3D printing is described in terms of its adjunctive function in various stages of spinal surgery and assistance in osteoporosis treatment. A review of metal 3D printed materials and applications of the technology is also provided.


Wave and particle in molecular interference lithography.
The wave-particle duality of massive objects is a cornerstone of quantum physics and a key property of many modern tools such as electron microscopy, neutron diffraction or atom interferometry. Here we report on the first experimental demonstration of quantum interference lithography with complex molecules. Molecular matter-wave interference patterns are deposited onto a reconstructed Si(111) 7x7 surface and imaged using scanning tunneling microscopy. Thereby both the particle and the quantum wave character of the molecules can be visualized in one and the same image. This new approach to nanolithography therefore also represents a sensitive new detection scheme for quantum interference experiments.


Cutaneous B-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma in children: a rare diagnosis.
Lymphoblastic lymphoma (LBL) is a rare malignant neoplasm usually occurring in the mediastinum of children and adolescents. The B-cell immunophenotype of LBL (B-LBL) accounts for less than 20% of all cases and may involve extramediastinal areas, such as the skin. Although highly aggressive, LBL is potentially curable if diagnosed early. We sought to describe the clinical and histopathologic features of B-LBL in children presenting with cutaneous lesions, and to highlight the specific features of this rare and serious disease. Seven children with a confirmed diagnosis of cutaneous B-LBL were identified by retrospective chart review. The clinical and histopathologic features were documented, analyzed, and compared with cases previously published in the literature. Six children developed nodules on the head, and one child presented with lesions on the back and abdomen. Histopathology showed a diffuse dermal and subcutaneous monomorphous infiltrate made up of atypical cells with an immature B-cell phenotype. The average duration of the lesions before diagnosis was 3.2 months. A staging workup revealed extracutaneous disease in 5 patients, including bone-marrow involvement in 4 children. This was a retrospective study with a small number of patients. The cutaneous lesions of B-LBL typically manifest as rapidly growing erythematous firm nodules located on the head. Awareness of these clinical features is important for the diagnosis to be reached rapidly and treatment started without delay.


SO2-catalyzed steam explosion of corn fiber for ethanol production.
Corn fiber, a by-product of the corn wet-milling industry, represents a renewable resource that is readily available in significant quantities and could potentially serve as a low-cost feedstock for the production of fuel-grade alcohol. In this study, we used a batch reactor to steam explode corn fiber at various degrees of severity to evaluate the potential of using this feedstock in the bioconversion process. The results indicated that maximum sugar yields (soluble and following enzymatic hydrolysis) were recovered from corn fiber that was pretreated at 190 degrees C for 5 min with 6% SO2. Sequential SO2-catalyzed steam explosion and enzymatic hydrolysis resulted in very high conversion (81%) of all polysaccharides in the corn fiber to monomeric sugars. Subsequently, Saccharomyces cerevisiae was able to convert the resultant corn fiber hydrolysates to ethanol very efficiently, yielding 90-96% of theoretical conversion during the fermentation process.


A dynamic calibration technique for temperature programmed desorption spectroscopy.
A novel, rapid and accurate calibration procedure as a means for quantitative gas desorption measurement by temperature programmed desorption (TPD) spectroscopy is presented. Quantitative measurement beyond the linear regime of the instrument is achieved by associating an instantaneous calibrated molar flow rate of gas to the detector response. This technique is based on fundamental methods, and is independently verified by comparison to the hydrogen desorption capacity of a known standard metal hydride with known stoichiometry. The TPD calibration procedure described here may be used for any pure gas, and the accuracy is demonstrated for the specific case of hydrogen.


Optimization of Approaches to Analysis of Lignin by Thermal Decomposition.
The ratio of monomeric units is one of the main characteristics of lignin, which affects the possibilities and strategies for further processing. Pyrolytic and thermal desorption decomposition of lignins followed by mass detection of macromolecule fragments are the most common methods for determining the amount of lignin structural units. Two methods of thermal decomposition of lignin were studied: thermal desorption-GC/MS (TD-GC/MS) and pyrolysis-GC/MS (Py-GC/MS). It was noted that, when using different thermal decomposition modes, the composition of the products changes, which affects the accuracy of determining the amount of lignin structural fragments. This article investigated the influence of the sample weight, the thermal decomposition temperature, and the duration of the process in various modes on the quantitation of the lignin structural units. The optimal process conditions were established. It was shown that the DS-Py-GC/MS with cryofocusing, a sample weight of 0.2-0.4 mg, and heating from 50 to 400 °C at a rate of 120 °C/min are preferable. The HSQC NMR was used as a comparison method to obtain the content of the S/G/H units. The results showed the applicability of the proposed approaches to hardwood lignins close to native.


[Application of exponent curve model to study the hepatitis B DNA recombinant yeast derived vaccine antibody levels].
To introduce exponent curve model methods in the study of the hepatitis B vaccine antibody level. After the China made vaccine of hepatitis B DNA recombinant yeast derived vaccine (YDV) had been carried out for 5 years, data on the anti-HBsAg's titer were used to construct an exponent curve model. When the vaccination program had been carried out for 8 years, the predicating results of the model were further tested by observed number. The exponent curve model was Y = 165.67 exp (-0.019X) and the R(2) was 0.98. After 8 years, the practical observed number became 35 mIU/ml, and the predicating result of the model was 27 mIU/ml, 8 mIU/ml lower than the observed number. When the vaccine had been carried out for 12 years, the predicating results of the model became 10.74 mIU/ml, still higher than 10 mIU/ml but was still in the effective range. An exponent curve model could be constructed, as long as the data of the antibody's titer was in accordance with the tendency of exponent curve. The model could be used to predict the persistence lever of vaccine antibody under certain conditions. The results showed that after 8 years, the predicting results of the model were reliably lower than the observed number.


[Are biometric parameters of anterior segment of the eyeball influenced by type 2 diabetes?].
To answer the question whether biometric parameters of anterior segment of the eyeball are influenced by type 2 diabetes, at the stage when the lens is still transparent, so before cataract development. Fifty subjects (28 women and 22 men), at the age of 63.3 +/- 11.3 years were enrolled in this prospective study. They were divided in 2 groups: patients with type 2 diabetes (24 subjects) and analogous age group in good general health - control group (26 subjects). None of the tested individuals presented lens opacities. The planned biometric measurements included: central corneal thickness, anterior chamber depth and axial lens thickness. The data were statistically analyzed. There was no difference between the groups of both proven and potential parameters that are associated with biometric measurements of the anterior segment of the eyeball, such as: gender, age, smoking and axial length of the eye. In diabetic patients, as opposed to the subjects in the control group, statistically significantly increased lens thickness (4.78 +/- 0.50 mm vs 4.43 +/- 0.50; p = 0.016), central corneal thickness (561.5 +/- 31.6 microm vs 542.2 +/- 35.2; p = 0.047), and the tendency for shallow anterior chamber (3.06 +/- 0.40 mm vs 3.22 +/- 0.38; p = 0.159), were observed. In patients with diabetes there was no association of the biometric parameters values with the duration of diabetes and presence of diabetic retinopathy. Type 2 diabetes contributes to increased axial corneal and lens thickness at the stage when the lens is transparent, albeit it does not significantly affect anterior chamber depth.


Bisannulation of Benzamides and Cyclohexadienone-Tethered Allenes Triggered by Cp*Rh(III)-Catalyzed C-H Activation and Relay Ene Reaction.
The diastereoselective bisannulation of N-(pivaloyloxy)benzamides and cyclohexadienone-tethered allenes was accomplished through Cp*Rh(III)-catalyzed C-H activation and relay ene reaction, providing a 3-isoquinolonyl cis-hydrobenzofuran framework with high yields and diastereoselectivities. This reaction tolerates a wide range of functional groups, enabling further conversions to tricyclic and bridged-ring structures. Moreover, the dearomatization modification of phenol-contained bioactive molecule is also elaborated.


Neonatal onset intestinal failure: an Italian Multicenter Study.
To describe the natural course of intestinal failure with onset in the neonatal period to provide data regarding the occurrence and to provide a population-based survey regarding the spectrum of underlying diseases. We performed a retrospective chart review including infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of 7 Italian tertiary care centers. Intestinal failure was defined as a primary intestinal disease that induces the need of total parenteral nutrition (PN) for more than 4 weeks or the need of partial PN for more than 3 months. The total number of live births during the study time within the enrolled institutions was 30 353, and the number of newborns admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit was 5088. Twenty-six patients satisfied the definition of intestinal failure; thus the occurrence rate of intestinal failure was 0.1% among live-birth newborns and 0.5% among infants at high risk. The main underlying diseases leading to intestinal failure in neonatal age were congenital intestinal defects (42.3%), necrotizing enterocolitis (30.8%), severe intestinal motility disorder (11.5%), intestinal obstruction (7.7%), structural enterocyte defects (3.8%), and meconium peritonitis (3.8%). After a follow-up of 36 months, 84.6% of patients achieved intestinal competence, 1 patient was still receiving home PN, 1 patient underwent transplantation, and 2 patients died. Cholestatic liver disease was diagnosed in 54% of observed children. An understanding of the incidence, causes, and natural history of intestinal failure would be helpful to appropriately allocate resources and to plan clinical trials.


Doxofylline and methylprednisolone sodium succinate are stable and compatible under normal injection conditions.
To assess the physical compatibility and chemical stability of doxofylline with methylprednisolone sodium succinate in 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose injection for intravenous infusion. Twenty mL doxofylline solution (0.74 mg/mL) and 1 mL methylprednisolone sodium succinate solution (0.15 mg/mL) were added into 250 mL polyolefin bags containing 5% dextrose injection or 0.9% sodium chloride injection, and stored for 24 h at 20-25(°)C. Chemical compatibility was measured with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and physical compatibility was determined visually. The results showed that samples were clear and colorless when viewed in normal fluorescent room light. The pH value exhibited little change. The particulate content of > 25 μm was low and within the specification limit. The particulate content of > 10 μm decreased over time and was similar to the control solution. Analysis of chemical stability revealed that doxofylline is stable with methylprednisolone sodium succinate for up to 24 h, and the degradation of methylprednisolone sodium succinate is unrelated to doxofylline, but is closely related to the pH value of the solution. Doxofylline and methylprednisolone sodium succinate did not affect the stability of each other.


Glycoursodeoxycholic acid ameliorates diet-induced metabolic disorders with inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress.
Recent studies reveal that bile acid metabolite composition and its metabolism are changed in metabolic disorders, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), yet its role and the mechanism remain largely unknown. In the present study, metabolomic analysis of 163 serum and stool samples of our metabolic disease cohort was performed, and we identified glycoursodeoxycholic acid (GUDCA), glycine-conjugated bile acid produced from intestinal bacteria, was decreased in both serum and stool samples from patients with hyperglycemia. RNA-sequencing and quantitative PCR results indicated that GUDCA alleviated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in livers of high fat diet (HFD)-fed mice without alteration of liver metabolism. In vitro, GUDCA reduced palmitic acid induced-ER stress and -apoptosis, as well as stabilized calcium homeostasis. In vivo, GUDCA exerted effects on amelioration of HFD-induced insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis. In parallel, ER stress and apoptosis were decreased in GUDCA-treated mice as compared with vehicle-treated mice in liver. These findings demonstrate that reduced GUDCA is an indicator of hyperglycemia. Supplementation of GUDCA could be an option for the treatment of diet-induced metabolic disorders, including insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis, with inhibiting ER stress.


Zein films with unoxidized or oxidized tannic acid.
Corn zein is a predominatly hydrophobic protein, forming films with relatively good water resistance. Tannic acid, especially in its oxidized form, is supposed to cross-link proteins including zein, which may be explored to further enhance the water resistance of zein films. The effects of different contents (0-8 wt%) of unoxidized and oxidized tannic acid (uTA and oTA, respectively) on the properties of zein films at different pH values (4-9) were studied, according to central composite designs. Increasing tannic acid contents and pH values resulted in decreased water solubility and increased tensile strength and modulus of films. The presence of tannic acid provided the films with a yellowish color and increased opacity. Paired t-tests indicated that oTA films presented higher tensile strength, lower water vapor permeability and lower water solubility than uTA films. Higher tannic acid contents and pH values resulted in films with better overall physical properties, which might be ascribed to cross-linking, although the films were still not water resistant. The resulting films have potential to be used for food packaging and coating applications. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.


Concepts in eyelid biomechanics with clinical implications.
The inner canthal orbicularis drives spontaneous blinking of the eyelids and is richly innervated by a branching network of twigs based largely on the buccal branch of the facial nerve. This segment of the orbicularis is relatively resistant to denervation from subciliary incisional approaches. Combined with proper eyelid tension, contraction of this segment of orbicularis results in the normal physiologic blink mechanism. The authors discuss how to achieve proper eyelid tension and position intraoperatively during the treatment of patients with a range of orbital morphologies.


Determination of helix orientations in proteins.
Accurate description of helices, including curvature and bending, and determination of interhelical angles are essential for analysis of the three-dimensional fold and functionally important conformational changes in helical proteins. Here, a new computational method is presented that allows determination of angles between any helical stretches, the radius of curvature of curved helices, bending angle of bent helices, as well as symmetry relations within the protein molecule, using main chain atom coordinates. The method has been applied to describe changes in interhelical angles in calmodulin upon interaction with a target peptide, which reveals the conformational changes at a higher precision. Because subtle changes in helix-to-helix packing and interhelical angles often underlie significant functional transitions in proteins, this approach can serve as a useful tool for characterization of such conformational changes at an exceedingly high accuracy and thus provide detailed insight into the structure-function relationship of proteins.


Transthoracic Discectomy for Symptomatic Thoracic Disc Herniation: 2-Dimensional Operative Video.
Thoracic disc herniations are an infrequent occurrence, but can be a cause of significant myelopathy. Diagnosis typically requires a high clinical suspicion that is confirmed with appropriate imaging. Classically, the transthoracic approach for discectomy is the treatment of choice for symptomatic cases. This video concerns a 48-yr-old woman who presented with worsening mid-back pain and progressive gait difficulty. Her examination was significant for proximal lower extremity muscle weakness, difficulty with tandem gait, and urinary incontinence. Imaging demonstrated a large T7-8 disc herniation causing severe spinal cord compression. The patient underwent T7-8 transthoracic discectomy and interbody fusion. She tolerated the procedure well without complication, and postoperative imaging demonstrated decompression of her spinal cord. On follow-up, she had improved mid-back pain, strength, and ambulatory function. The patient consented to the recording of this surgical video for potential publication.


Scoring of Programmed Death-Ligand 1 Immunohistochemistry on Cytology Cell Block Specimens in Non-Small Cell Lung Carcinoma.
Recent investigations have shown strong correlations between cytology and surgical non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) specimens in programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) immunohistochemical (IHC) evaluations. Our study aims to evaluate the reproducibility of PD-L1 IHC scoring in NSCLC cytology cell blocks (CBs) and to assess the impact of CB cellularity, method of sample collection, and observer subspecialty on scoring agreement. PD-L1 IHC was performed on 54 NSCLC cytology CBs and was scored independently by seven cytopathologists (three of seven with expertise in pulmonary pathology). Three-tier scoring of negative (<1%), low positive (1%-49%), and high positive (≥50%) and interrater agreement were assessed. Total and majority agreement among cytopathologists was achieved in 48% and 98% of cases, respectively, with κ = 0.608 (substantial agreement; 95% confidence interval, 0.50-0.72). Cytopathologists with pulmonary pathology expertise agreed in 67% of cases (κ = 0.633, substantial agreement), whereas the remaining cytopathologists agreed in 56% of cases (κ = 0.62, substantial agreement). CB cellularity (P = .36) and sample collection type (P = .59) had no statistically significant difference between raters. There is substantial agreement in PD-L1 IHC scoring in cytology CB specimens among cytopathologists. Additional expertise in pulmonary pathology, sample collection type, and CB cellularity have no statistically significant impact on interobserver agreement.


Streptococcus pneumoniae-associated human macrophage apoptosis after bacterial internalization via complement and Fcgamma receptors correlates with intracellular bacterial load.
Opsonization enhances Streptococcus pneumoniae-induced human monocyte-derived macrophage (MDM) apoptosis. Both depletion of complement and immunoglobulin from opsonizing serum and blockade of the macrophages CR1, CR3, FcgammaRII, and FcgammaRIII partially decreased MDM apoptosis after S. pneumoniae phagocytosis, and these effects correlated with reduced numbers of internalized bacteria. Chloramphenicol inhibition of protein synthesis by opsonized S. pneumoniae down-regulated subsequent MDM apoptosis. Phagocytosis of an unencapsulated mutant of S. pneumoniae resulted in increased MDM apoptosis, in association with enhanced internalization. Caspase inhibition was associated with decreased killing of bacteria. Enhanced induction of apoptosis by opsonized S. pneumoniae is the result of increased intracellular burden of bacteria, rather than of a specific pattern of engagement of complement receptor or FcgammaR. A dynamic interaction between live intracellular bacteria and the host cell is necessary for induction of apoptosis in MDMs, and induction of apoptosis contributes to the host defense against S. pneumoniae.


Infections with atypical mycobacteria in renal transplant recipients.
Infections due to atypical mycobacteria are infrequent in renal transplant recipients but they cause serious morbidity. These pathogens are common in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). We report four proven cases of infections caused with atypical mycobacteriae from 1997 to 2003, by different organisms namely, M. chelonei, M.fortuitum, M. abcessus and M. terrae in renal transplant recipients. Infection with M. terrae documented here is the first occurrence in a renal transplant patient. Histopathological examination of aspirates or biopsy specimens from involved areas and staining and culture for mycobacteriae are essential for diagnosis. Treatment involves antimycobacterial therapy, reduction in immunosuppression and surgery, if indicated. Atypical mycobacterial infections, though currently uncommon, are significant and could prove to be an emerging pathogen in renal transplant recipients in the context of the AIDS epidemic in India.


Use of Health Services in the Months Prior to Suicide in a Country With Low Suicide Rates and Public Universal Access to Healthcare.
The use of health services prior to suicide has been little studied in countries with low suicide rates and, on the other hand, little is known on the use of concrete medical specialties other than primary care or mental health services. To analyze the use of different types of health services, the psychiatric diagnosis, and treatments received in the year prior to suicide in the region of Gipuzkoa (Spain), a country with low rates of suicide and public universal access to healthcare. This is a retrospective descriptive study. We included all suicides registered by the official legal body between 2010 and 2017. 388 suicides were analyzed. 78.9% had some contact with the health service in the last year. Primary care was the most used (60% contacted in the last 12 months and 23.5% in last week) followed by non-psychiatric outpatient specialties, mainly neurology, ophthalmology, and rehabilitation. Hospital discharges in the last month were 3 times higher from non-psychiatric units than from psychiatry (5.9% vs 1.8%). Only 32.5% contacted an outpatient psychiatric service the last year and less than 50% had a prescription of psychotropic drugs. The most frequent psychiatric diagnosis was F40-F49 (29.2%). Results expand the available knowledge and highlight the role of concrete non-psychiatric specialties (including both outpatient and inpatient services) in suicide prevention. Percentages of healthcare use are in line with other countries including some with different healthcare models and higher suicide rates. HIGHLIGHTSHealthcare use is high but similar to countries with higher suicide ratesThe use of several non-psychiatric specialties (outpatient & inpatient) stands outOnly 1 in 3 saw a psychiatrist and 1 in 2 might have received a psych. diagnosis.


Trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias: a review and implications for dentistry.
The authors review the epidemiology, clinical features, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, orofacial presentations and dental implications of trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias (TACs): cluster headache (CH), paroxysmal hemicrania (PH) and short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing (SUNCT). The authors conducted PUBMED searches for the period from 1968 through 2007 using the terms "trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias," "cluster headache," "paroxysmal hemicrania," "short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing," "epidemiology," "pathophysiology," "treatment," "oral," "facial" and "dentistry." They gave preference to articles reporting randomized, controlled trials and those published in English-language peer-reviewed journals. TACs refers to a group of headaches characterized by unilateral head pain, facial pain or both with accompanying autonomic features. Although their pathophysiologies are unclear, CH, PH and SUNCT may be differentiated according to their clinical characteristics. Current treatments for each of the TACs are useful in alleviating the pain, with few refractory cases requiring surgical intervention. Patients with TACs often visit dental offices seeking relief for their pain. Although the prevalence of TACs is small, it is important for dentists to recognize the disorder and refer patients to a neurologist. This will avoid the pitfall of administering unnecessary and inappropriate traditional dental treatments in an attempt to alleviate the neurovascular pain.


Watermelon stomach: not only an antral disease.
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a source of GI bleeding. Several associated conditions have been recognized. However, there is little information on the occurrence of ectatic lesions in regions of the stomach other than the antrum, that is, the cardia. Patients in whom a diagnosis of GAVE was made from 1990 to 2000 are presented with an emphasis on the frequency of contemporaneous ectatic lesions in the gastric cardia. A diagnosis of GAVE was made in 17 patients. Concurrent disorders were identified. After 1996, all patients with GAVE were systematically examined for ectatic changes in the cardia. Several of the 17 patients had lesions in the cardia, 2 of 9 being identified before 1996 and 5 of 8 after 1996. The most common comorbid conditions were liver (n = 5) and heart disease (n = 4). Ectatic lesions in the cardia are common in patients with GAVE. The significance of this finding remains to be investigated.


The Hebrew CHILDES corpus: transcription and morphological analysis.
We present a corpus of transcribed spoken Hebrew that reflects spoken interactions between children and adults. The corpus is an integral part of the CHILDES database, which distributes similar corpora for over 25 languages. We introduce a dedicated transcription scheme for the spoken Hebrew data that is sensitive to both the phonology and the standard orthography of the language. We also introduce a morphological analyzer that was specifically developed for this corpus. The analyzer adequately covers the entire corpus, producing detailed correct analyses for all tokens. Evaluation on a new corpus reveals high coverage as well. Finally, we describe a morphological disambiguation module that selects the correct analysis of each token in context. The result is a high-quality morphologically-annotated CHILDES corpus of Hebrew, along with a set of tools that can be applied to new corpora.


Amphiphilic polyanhydride-based recombinant MUC4β-nanovaccine activates dendritic cells.
Mucin 4 (MUC4) is a high molecular weight glycoprotein that is differentially overexpressed in pancreatic cancer (PC), functionally contributes to disease progression, and correlates with poor survival. Further, due to its aberrant glycosylation and extensive splicing, MUC4 is a potential target for cancer immunotherapy. Our previous studies have demonstrated the utility of amphiphilic polyanhydride nanoparticles as a useful platform for the development of protein-based prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines. In the present study, we encapsulated purified recombinant human MUC4-beta (MUC4β) protein in polyanhydride (20:80 CPTEG:CPH) nanoparticles (MUC4β-nanovaccine) and evaluated its ability to activate dendritic cells and induce adaptive immunity. Immature dendritic cells when pulsed with MUC4β-nanovaccine exhibited significant increase in the surface expressions of MHC I and MHC II and costimulatory molecules (CD80 and CD86), as well as, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL-12) as compared to cells exposed to MUC4β alone or MUC4β mixed with blank nanoparticles (MUC4β+NP). Following immunization, as compared to the other formulations, MUC4β-nanovaccine elicited higher IgG2b to IgG1 ratio of anti-MUC4β-antibodies suggesting a predominantly Th1-like class switching. Thus, our findings demonstrate MUC4β-nanovaccine as a novel platform for PC immunotherapy.


Factors Affecting the Visual Outcome of Pituitary Adenoma Patients Treated with Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery.
To evaluate visual acuity (VA) and visual fields (VF) quantitatively before and after endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETS), with special attention to prognostic factors such as the pituitary adenoma (PA) suprasellar extension (SSE), volume and the patients' age. Medical records of 47 patients with PA undergoing ETS were evaluated. VA, VF, preoperative visual impairment score (VISpre) and postoperative visual impairment score (VISpost) were determined. The PA SSE, volume, chiasmal contact, and their correlation with visual function were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively. The final cohort included 47 patients. VA improved in 54 of 76 eyes (71.0%) after ETS, and 69 of 76 eyes (90.7%) gained normal VA. Postoperative VF recovery occurred in 32 of 37 eyes (86.5%). The mean change in VIS was 12.0 (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.7-16.3) and improved in all patients with tumor-related visual impairment (n = 25). However, visual outcome was poorer when VISpre was greater than 40. When VISpre was 21-40, age linearly correlated with VIS improvement (P = 0.03); younger patients had satisfactory and older poorer visual outcome. The mean SSE in patients with VF defects (n = 20) was 16.6 mm (95% CI, 13.3-19.9). Mean SSE in patients with no VF defects (n = 23) was 6.6 mm (95% CI, 4.9-8.3; P < 0.001), and the cutoff value for visual perturbations was 9.5 mm for SSE and 8.6 mL for PA volume (P < 0.001 for both). The visual outcome after ETS for PAs was excellent, and serious complications were rare. Severe preoperative visual impairment resulted in poorer postoperative visual outcomes. The SSE of the PA was the most important predictor of visual outcome after ETS.


[Study of specific activity of tincture "Venoton"].
The specific activity of the complex was investigated by infusion. Established that the plant complex has a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect on the model of the rat formalin edema, affecting exudative phase of inflammation. It is shown that the drug has a pronounced effect on the permeability of blood vessels and for this indicator exceeds the drug comparison aescusan. "Venoton" with eskuzan has an inhibitory effect on the development of edema in rats. The obtained results allow predicting the use of integrated infusion, as an independent product, and as a constituent of medicines.


Managing noncommunicable diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil: findings from the PAMPA cohort.
The objective was to identify the impact of social distance in the management of noncommunicable diseases (NCD) in the adult population from the state of Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. This is an ambispective, population-based cohort study. Descriptive analysis and Poisson regression models were used and the results were reported as prevalence ratio and 95% confidence intervals. From a total of 1,288 participants, 43.1% needed medical care and 28.5% reported impaired management of NCDs during social distance. Female sex, age between 18 and 30 years old, living in the Serra region (central region of the state), people with depression and multimorbidity were more likely to have impaired management of NCDs. Being physically active reduced the probability of having impaired management of NCD by 15%. Reduced monthly income was associated with the difficulty in accessing prescription medicine and avoidance of seeking in-person medical assistance. Depression was associated with difficulties in accessing medications, while avoidance of seeking in-person medical assistance was more likely for people with multimorbidity, arthritis/arthrosis/fibromyalgia, heart disease, and high cholesterol.


The prone position for transurethral resection of anterior bladder-wall tumours.
Transurethral resection of tumours of the anterior bladder wall may be technically difficult. The resectoscope must be held with an awkward upside-down grip and the surgeon assume an uncomfortable position, particularly as the bladder fills and causes the tumour to drift away from the surgeon. There is a risk of intraperitoneal perforation as the surgeon cuts more deeply to resect the tumour. When the patient is in the prone position the tumour is more accessible. This allows it to be resected more easily, more thoroughly and more comfortably. The technique may be used in men as well as in women.


Piezoelectric-based bioactive zinc oxide-cellulose acetate electrospun mats for efficient wound healing: an in vitro insight.
Being a complex physiological process involving the removal of damaged tissue debris and creating a new microenvironment for host tissue regeneration, wound healing is still a major challenge for healthcare professionals. Disruption of this process can lead to tissue inflammation, pathogenic infections, and scar formation. Current wound healing treatments primarily focus on passive tissue healing, lacking active engagement in the healing process. In recent years, a new class of functional biomaterials based on piezoelectric properties has emerged, which can actively participate in the wound healing process by harnessing mechanical forces generated from body movement. Herein, we have fabricated a bioactive Cellulose Acetate (CA) electrospun nanofibrous mat incorporating zinc oxide (ZnO) and investigated its efficiency for accelerated wound healing. We have characterized the physicochemical properties of the fabricated nanofibrous mats using various assays, including SEM, FTIR, TGA, mechanical testing, degradation analysis, porosity measurement, hemolysis assay, and piezoelectric d33 coefficient measurement. Through our investigation, we discovered the tunned piezoelectric coefficient of fabricated specimens due to incorporating ZnO into the CA fibers. In vitro studies also confirmed enhanced cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration, indicating faster wound healing potential. Overall, our findings support the efficacy of piezoelectric-based ZnO-incorporated bioactive CA nanofibrous mats for efficient wound healing.


Integrating digital systems: commitment and collaboration.
One year ago, the radiology department at Ball Memorial Hospital, a 350-bed facility in Muncie, IN, was completely film-based. The need to support a new all-digital, 35-room emergency department (ED) hastened the facility's transition to a digital environment. Today, with the exception of mammography, the hospital's imaging services are now digital. To develop and implement the project, the hospital formed an internal implementation team. An independent consultant was also hired to evaluate the impact of these new technologies and to provide an estimated cost payback. After research, site visits, and vendor demonstrations, the hospital selected a single vendor for its picture archiving and communication system (PACS), digital radiography (DR), computed radiography (CR), and overall project management. The DR system was installed in the ED to provide digital image capture for a full range of trauma exams. The ED also initially began utilizing a Web-based PACS distribution originally implemented for after-hours teleradiology. The majority of the hospital's imaging studies are captured with 2 multi-cassette CR systems that serve 7 exam rooms in the radiology department. The hospital also installed remote operations panels to expedite entry of patient and exam information. Technologists readily embraced both CR and DR systems. The Web distribution system now transmits images to hospital-based computers and to 150 remote referring physicians. The PACS platform automatically e-mails key images and radiology reports to referring physicians. Authorized physicians can also request reports and images on an as-needed basis. The PACS vendor had previously performed multiple integrations with the radiology information system (RIS) vendor; the integration of PACS and RIS was extremely smooth. One of the critical components of a successful conversion is experienced, dedicated management. The hospital retained professional project management services to facilitate implementation and to ensure adequate training for all users.


Alterations in ankle dorsiflexion torque as a result of continuous ultrasound to the anterior tibial compartment.
Although considerable documentation of the physiologic effects of ultrasound (US) exists, little information is available concerning direct effects of US on muscle, particularly when the US is applied immediately before muscle performance. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of continuous US to the anterior tibial muscle compartment on ankle dorsiflexion torque assessed immediately posttreatment, at 30 minutes, and at 60 minutes posttreatment. Seventeen healthy subjects were tested performing isometric contractions at dynamometer velocities of 60 and 180 degrees/sec. Subjects first received either a placebo or a 1.5 W/cm2 15-minute US treatment. One week later, the protocol was repeated with the administration of a second treatment. Analysis of variance showed no significant interactions for time and treatment for any contraction; time, for isometric contraction, was the only significant main effect. Follow-up analyses were all nonsignificant for comparisons of pretreatment to posttreatment and posttreatment to 30- and 60-minute intervals within treatment groups. The study concludes that in spite of known physiologic effects, one treatment of US does not have an immediate or latent effect on peak torque.


[Principles of reorientation in triple arthrodesis].
Triple arthrodesis can be used for a three-dimensional correction of all types of hindfoot deformities. Prerequisites are a functional integrity of the ankle joint and an adequate bone stock. The procedure blocks the cardanic mechanism of the hindfoot and therefore reduces the shock-absorbing and mobile-adaptive functions of the foot. This results in increased stresses with the risk of long-term degenerative changes. In addition to triple arthrodesis, procedures to the forefoot are often necessary. Especially in neurogenic deformities, muscle lengthening and balancing procedures may be needed. In the evaluation of the results, different etiologies (e.g. posttraumatic, degenerative, neurogenic, congenital) and different deformities (varus, valgus, cavovarus, equinus) should not be mixed up. The results in congenital and neurogenic deformities in the literature are inferior to those of degenerative and posttraumatic origin. A standardization of indications, techniques, and evaluation criteria is still needed in order to exactly estimate the value of this procedure for different pathologies.


The Two-Brains Hypothesis: Towards a guide for brain-brain and brain-machine interfaces.
Great advances have been made in signaling information on brain activity in individuals, or passing between an individual and a computer or robot. These include recording of natural activity using implants under the scalp or by external means or the reverse feeding of such data into the brain. In one recent example, noninvasive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) allowed feeding of digitalized information into the central nervous system (CNS). Thus, noninvasive electroencephalography (EEG) recordings of motor signals at the scalp, representing specific motor intention of hand moving in individual humans, were fed as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) at a maximum intensity of 2.0[Formula: see text]T through a circular magnetic coil placed flush on each of the heads of subjects present at a different location. The TMS was said to induce an electric current influencing axons of the motor cortex causing the intended hand movement: the first example of the transfer of motor intention and its expression, between the brains of two remote humans. However, to date the mechanisms involved, not least that relating to the participation of magnetic induction, remain unclear. In general, in animal biology, magnetic fields are usually the poor relation of neuronal current: generally "unseen" and if apparent, disregarded or just given a nod. Niels Bohr searched for a biological parallel to complementary phenomena of physics. Pertinently, the two-brains hypothesis (TBH) proposed recently that advanced animals, especially man, have two brains i.e., the animal CNS evolved as two fundamentally different though interdependent, complementary organs: one electro-ionic (tangible, known and accessible), and the other, electromagnetic (intangible and difficult to access) - a stable, structured and functional 3D compendium of variously induced interacting electro-magnetic (EM) fields. Research on the CNS in health and disease progresses including that on brain-brain, brain-computer and brain-robot engineering. As they grow even closer, these disciplines involve their own unique complexities, including direction by the laws of inductive physics. So the novel TBH hypothesis has wide fundamental implications, including those related to TMS. These require rethinking and renewed research engaging the fully complementary equivalence of mutual magnetic and electric field induction in the CNS and, within this context, a new mathematics of the brain to decipher higher cognitive operations not possible with current brain-brain and brain-machine interfaces. Bohr may now rest.


Embryonic stem cells and retinal repair.
In this review we examine the potential of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) for use in the treatment of retinal diseases involving photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). We outline the ontogenesis of target retinal cell types (RPE, rods and cones) and discuss how an understanding of developmental processes can inform our manipulation of ESCs in vitro. Due to their potential for cellular therapy, special emphasis is placed upon the derivation and culture of human embryonic stem cells (HESCs) and their differentiation towards a retinal phenotype. In terms of achieving this goal, we suggest that much of the success to date reflects permissive in vitro environments provided by established protocols for HESC derivation, propagation and neural differentiation. In addition, we summarise key factors that may be important for enhancing efficiency of retinal cell-type derivation from HESCs. The retina is an amenable component of the central nervous system (CNS) and as such, diseases of this structure provide a realistic target for the application of HESC-derived cellular therapy to the CNS. In order to further this goal, the second component of our review focuses on the cellular and molecular cues within retinal environments that may influence the survival and behaviour of transplanted cells. Our analysis considers both the potential barriers to transplant integration in the retina itself together with the remodelling in host visual centres that is known to accompany retinal dystrophy.


Is it time to change state and regional dental licensure board exams in response to evidence from caries research?
State and regional board exams represent the final gateway to dental licensure. One would expect that the requirements for licensure would reflect procedures that are beneficial to each patient's oral health and that are consistent with the teachings of most dental schools. We conducted an Internet survey to determine whether Class 2 tooth preparations based on caries lesions whose radiolucencies were confined to enamel were allowed for state and regional exams. Information obtained for 46 of the 50 states revealed that 33 of the states (72%) allowed teeth with either an E1 or E2 lesion to be restored. Seventeen of these states allowed teeth with an E1 lesion to be restored. Only 12 of the 46 states (26%) covered by these boards did not allow teeth with E1 or E2 lesions to be surgically treated. In contrast, a recent report indicates that only 30% of dental schools permit teeth with enamel lesions to be restored to satisfy clinical requirements and competencies.