Upper limb joint mobility ranges during activities of daily living determined by three-dimensional motion analysis--preliminary report.
Analysis of hand therapy programmes used in various hand therapy centres shows that the programmes primarily aim to restore a maximum range of motion, although basic activities of daily living do not often require full joint mobility. This report of our investigations, which commenced in 2003, presents the results of an evaluation of the range of motion in the joints of the upper limb, including both proximal and hand joints, during selected daily activities. Right-handed students of physical therapy were examined using a three-dimensional motion analysis system in the Biokinetics Laboratory of the Division of Biomechanics at the University of Physical Education in Kraków. Spatial registration of movement focused on three daily activities that primarily involve the upper limb, namely, natural movements associated with combing, closing a zip fastener and answering a telephone call. Angular changes in the joints recorded in three movement planes were used as analysis inputs. The range of motion in the analysed joints during daily activities never reached the respective maximal values, usually centering around the middle point of the ranges. Daily activities require only limited mobility in the upper limb joints. Three-dimensional motion analysis is a useful tool to monitor and assess this phenomenon. The results of such assessments should be taken into account by hand therapists designing and implementing rehabilitation programmes.


Central neurocytoma--case report.
The authors present a case of central neurocytoma in a 34-year-old female who had experienced intermittent headaches over a 10-year period. On computed tomographic (CT) scans and magnetic resonance images, the tumor appeared as a large, calcified mass occupying both lateral ventricles. A right parieto-occipital craniotomy was performed and the tumor was totally removed. While the light microscopic findings suggested a diagnosis of oligodendroglioma, electron microscopic examination demonstrated clear vesicles, microtubules, and synaptic structures within the abundant cytoplasmic processes of the tumor cells. Immunohistochemical examination showed the tumor cells to be strongly positive for neuron-specific enolase, sparsely positive for S-100 protein, and negative for glial fibrillary acidic protein. The final histological diagnosis was central neurocytoma. The postoperative course was uneventful and no further treatment was administered. She has no neurological deficits and CT has shown no evidence of recurrence during the 2 years since her surgery. Central neurocytoma is a rare tumor arising in the lateral ventricle, and the diagnosis is mainly based on electron microscopic findings. Since central neurocytoma appears to have a good prognosis following total removal alone, it is very important to distinguish between this and other ventricular tumors.


Perceived helpfulness of alcohol protective behavioral strategies and consequence severity: A person-centered analysis.
Objective: College students report high rates of alcohol use and negative alcohol-related consequences (ARC). Many studies document that protective behavioral strategy (PBS) use is negatively associated with ARC. Few studies examine consequence severity and PBS helpfulness, both of which may provide nuance to this relationship. Participants and method: The current study used latent profile analysis to examine variability in PBS use, PBS helpfulness, ARC count, and ARC severity patterns among college students (n = 1156). We identified latent profiles and differences in alcohol use and drinking motives across profiles. Results: Three profiles best represented the data: (1) high PBS/low consequences, (2) moderate PBS/moderate consequences, (3) low PBS/high consequences. Conclusions: College students endorsing stronger drinking motives might be less likely to use and select helpful PBS and might experience more severe ARC. Results suggest that simple modifications to common measures can add depth of understanding and nuance to the examination of alcohol-related behaviors.


Management of Spontaneous Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Patients with Negative Initial Digital Subtraction Angiogram Findings: Conservative or Aggressive?
Background. The ideal management of SAH patients with negative initial DSA findings remains unresolved. Objective. (i) To present risk factors, clinical courses, and outcomes in different types of SAH patients with negative DSA findings; (ii) to explore the differences of basal vein between aSAH patients and NASAH patients; and (iii) to evaluate the value of repeated DSA for these patients. Methods. All SAH patients with negative initial DSA findings between 2013 and 2015 in our hospital were enrolled and were further categorized as perimesencephalic SAH (PMN-SAH) or nonperimesencephalic SAH (nPMN-SAH). Risk factors, clinical courses, outcomes, and the basal vein drainage patterns were compared. Results. A total of 137 patients were enrolled in the present study. The PMN-SAH group had better GOS and mRS values at 1-year follow-up. Moreover, the nPMN-SAH group had a higher rate of complications. The basal vein drainage pattern showed significant difference when comparing each of the NASAH subtypes with aSAH groups. There was a significant higher rate of a responsible aneurysm in nPMN-SAH group upon repeated DSA. Conclusions. SAH patients with negative initial DSA findings had benign clinical courses and outcomes. Repeated DSA studies are strongly advised for patients with the nPMN-SAH pattern.


Developmental disparity between in vitro-produced and somatic cell nuclear transfer bovine days 14 and 21 embryos: implications for embryonic loss.
In ruminants, the greatest period of embryonic loss coincides with the period of elongation when the embryonic disc is formed and gastrulation occurs prior to implantation. The impact of early embryonic mortality is not only a major obstacle to the cattle breeding industry but also impedes the application of new reproductive technologies such as somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). In the present study, days 14 and 21 bovine embryos, generated by either in vitro-production (IVP) or SCNT, performed by either subzonal injection (SUZI) or handmade cloning (HMC), were compared by stereomicroscopy, immunohistochemistry, and transmission electron microscopy to establish in vivo developmental milestones. Following morphological examination, samples were characterized for the presence of epiblast (POU5F1), mesoderm (VIM), and neuroectoderm (TUBB3). On D14, only 25, 15, and 7% of IVP, SUZI, and HMC embryos were recovered from the embryos transferred respectively, and similar low recovery rates were noted on D21, suggesting that most of the embryonic loss had already occurred by D14. A number of D14 IVP, SUZI, and HMC embryos lacked an epiblast, but presented trophectoderm and hypoblast. When the epiblast was present, POU5F1 staining was limited to this compartment in all types of embryos. At the ultrastructural level, SCNT embryos displayed abundant secondary lysosomes and vacuoles, had fewer mitochondria, polyribosomes, tight junctions, desmosomes, and tonofilaments than their IVP counterparts. The staining of VIM and TUBB3 was less distinct in SCNT embryos when compared with IVP embryos, indicating slower or compromised development. In conclusion, SCNT and to some degree, IVP embryos displayed a high rate of embryonic mortality before D14 and surviving embryos displayed reduced quality with respect to ultrastructural features and differentiation markers.


Biotransformation of urapidil: isolation and identification of metabolites in mouse, rat, dog and man.
The identification of biotransformation products of the new antihypertensive drug urapidil in mouse, rat, dog and man has been performed by means of high-performance liquid chromatographic and mass spectrometric techniques. In urine, three metabolites were found in addition to the unchanged drug. The para-hydroxylated product (1) (6-(3-[4-(o-methoxy-p-hydroxyphenyl)piperazinyl]-propylamino)-1, 3-dimethyl-uracil), the O-demethylated compound (2) (6-(3-[4-(o-hydroxyphenyl)piperazinyl]-propylamino)-1, 3-dimethyluracil) and the uracil-N-dealkylated compound (3) (6-(3-[4-(o-methoxyphenyl)piperazinyl]-propylamino)-1-methyluracil). In urine of dog, the metabolite with the N-oxide structure (5) was also identified, but only in trace amounts (6-(3-[4-(o-methoxyphenyl)piperazinyl-N-oxide]-propylamino)-1, 3-dimethyluracil).


Spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion causes damage of neurocyte by inhibiting RAP2C.
To explore the mechanism of RAP2C participating in spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury (SCII). mRNA expressions of miR-204 and RAP2C were measured by qRT-PCR. Protein level of RAP2C was detected by Western blot. Cell apoptosis in AGE1.HN and PC12 cells was detected by Annexin V/propidium iodide assay. The effect of miR-204 knockdown or overexpression on RAP2C expression was observed by luciferase assay. In this experimental research, RAP2C expression in SCII group was lower than control group, while miR-204 expression was higher. In addition, RAP2C expression in AGE1.HN and PC12 cells under hypoxic condition was lower than control group, while miR-204 expression was higher. Hypoxia increased cell apoptosis, and overexpression of RAP2C reversed this effect. In cells treated with hypoxia and miRNA-204 inhibitor, hypoxia upregulated the expression of miR-204, while miRNA-204 inhibitor reversed this effect. Hypoxia downregulated the expression of RAP2C, while miR-204 inhibitor reversed this effect. Moreover, miR-204 could bind to 3'-UTR of RAP2C. And miR-204 inhibitor upregulated the activity and expression of RAP2C, while miR-204 mimic played the opposite role. Finally, hypoxia downregulated RAP2C expression, miR-204 inhibitor upregulated RAP2C expression, while Ad-sh-RAP2C inhibited RAP2C expression. What's more, hypoxia increased the apoptosis rate, miR-204 inhibitor decreased the apoptosis rate, while si-RAP2C increased the apoptosis rate. SCII causes increase of neurocyte apoptosis by inhibiting RAP2C via miR-204.


seco-Cycloartane triterpenes from Gardenia aubryi.
Three new 3,4-seco-cycloartanes, secaubryenol (1), secaubrytriol (2), and secaubryolide (3), were isolated from an exudate collected on the aerial parts of Gardenia aubryi, in addition to the known (24S)-cycloartane-24,25-diol-3-one, coccinetane A, herbacetin 3,8-dimethyl ether, hibiscetin 3,8,3',4'-tetramethyl ether, and conyzatin. The structures of 1 and 2 were established by mass spectrometry and NMR experiments, while the relative configuration of 2 was defined unequivocally using X-ray crystallography. The in vitro cytotoxic activity of compounds 1-3 was evaluated against four human solid tumor cell lines.


Pseudoneglect in a patient with partial callosal disconnection.
Each hemisphere may not only be responsible for processing stimuli from the contralateral sensory systems and for programming movements of the contralateral hand, but may also be important for mediating attention-intention within the contralateral hemispace. If each hemisphere mediates attention-intention within contralateral hemispace, both hemispheres must work in concert especially when an arm is crossed and used in opposite hemispace. If both hemispheres did not work together, the directional bias of each hemisphere would become manifest and induce the contralateral extremity to err toward its own hemispace, inducing pseudoneglect . To test this hypothesis, we examined a patient who had a partial callosal disconnection. In trying visually and somaesthetically to bisect lines with her left hand in right hemispace, the patient made systematic errors to the left; in bisecting lines in left hemispace with her right hand, she made systematic errors to the right. The patient also made less dramatic systematic errors even when a hand was used in its own hemispace, which suggests that each hemisphere mediates attention-intention within and towards the contralateral hemispace.


National trends in incidence and outcomes of acute pancreatitis among type 2 diabetics and non-diabetics in Spain (2001-2011).
Diabetes is often observed in patients with acute pancreatitis (AP). Our aim was to compare trends in the clinical epidemiology and outcomes of AP in diabetic and non-diabetic patients in Spain. We conducted a retrospective observational study. We identified all patients who had a diagnosis of AP using national hospital discharge data (2001-2011). The incidence of discharges of patients with AP was calculated, stratified by diabetes status. We calculated length of stay and in-hospital mortality (IHM). We applied joinpoint log-linear regression to identify the years in which changes in tendency occurred in the diagnosis of AP. The multivariate analysis was adjusted for age, sex, year and Charlson comorbidity index (CCI). The total number of subjects who had a diagnosis of AP was 282,349. Of them, 42,009 (14.9%) had type 2 diabetes. The annual percentage of change in the incidence of AP for the whole period was 4.90% for those suffering from type 2 diabetes and almost null (0.1%) for those without this disease. Among hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes and acute pancreatitis, those with a CCI equal to or greater than three had 5.53 times more probability of dying in the hospital than those with a CCI of zero. The corresponding OR for the non-diabetic group was 6.50 (95%CI 6.15-6.87). Suffering from type 2 diabetes was significantly associated with a lower risk of dying in the hospital with a diagnosis of AP (OR 0.82; 95% CI 0.78-0.86). In Spain, time trend analyses suggest that the incidence of AP is increasing more among those with prevalent type 2 diabetes than among those without this disease. Type 2 diabetes was associated with a lower risk of dying in hospital with AP.


Immunopathogenesis of accelerated allograft rejection in sensitized recipients: humoral and nonhumoral mechanisms.
Accelerated rejection (AccR) in sensitized recipients (second-set rejection) is considered a classic humorally mediated form of allograft rejection, although additional effector mechanisms may be involved. We developed a model of AccR in which C57BL6 mice are sensitized by BALB/c skin grafts, followed 10 days later by transplantation of BALB/c hearts. We undertook analysis of various humoral and cellular components in this model using knockout or monoclonal antibody-treated allograft recipients. Sensitized mice rejected cardiac allografts in 34+/-7 hr. AccR was accompanied by endothelial deposition of immunoglobulins, complement, and fibrin, but also by dense expression of multiple chemokines and a mixed polymorphonuclear and mononuclear cellular infiltrate. Whereas neutrophil or complement depletion had no significant effect on the tempo of AccR, surprisingly B cell-deficient recipients still underwent AccR (41+/-7 hr) in conjunction with T cell and macrophage recruitment. In contrast, T cell-deficient (nude) mice maintained functioning cardiac allografts for >720 hr despite prior skin engraftment. AccR in sensitized experimental recipients involves multiple effector pathways. Although most previous studies have emphasized the key role of humoral pathways in mediating AccR, our data indicate that T cell-dependent mechanisms can also promote AccR, alone or in conjunction with humoral responses.


Acute cellular rejection monitoring after intestinal transplant: utility of serologic markers and zoom videoendoscopy as support of conventional biopsy and clinical findings.
Acute cellular rejection (ACR) episodes in intestinal transplant recipients are diagnosed by histologic and clinical findings. We have applied zoom video endoscopy and the use of serologic markers granzyme B (GrB) and perforin (PrF) to monitor rejection together with conventional tools. Seven hundred eighty-two blood samples (obtained at the time of the biopsy) collected from 34 recipients for GrB/PrF upregulation were positive among 64.9% of ACRs during a 3-year follow-up. Considering only the first year results posttransplantation, it reached 73.1% of rejection events. Zoom videoendoscopy was used by our group in 29 recipients of isolated intestine (n = 24) or multivisceral transplantations (n = 5) to enable observation of villi and crypt areas. From more than 270 procedures, 84% of the zoom findings agreed with the histologic results, namely, a specificity of 95%. In fact, during ongoing ACR, villi were altered in 80% of cases. Both procedures were helpful to support conventional histologic findings and clinical symptoms of ACR in intestinal transplant recipients.


The larynx in the cri du chat syndrome.
The Cri du Chat Syndrome which is caused by a chromosome abnormality is described. A summary of the laryngeal features found by various authors has been made. The characteristic cat-like cry is probably central in origin. The larynx in this condition may be normal or abnormal. If abnormal it is just another clinical manifestation of the syndrome.


[Anticoagulant therapy in cancer patients with atrial fibrillation. Considering age factor.]
The current issue of the choice of anticoagulant therapy of atrial fibrillation (AF) in cancer patients is considered. It is noted that the difficulty of choosing an anticoagulant in malignancies is largely determined by age-related factors, such as comorbid cardiovascular diseases, liver and kidney dysfunction, metabolic disorders common for in elderly patients. Current data on the risk assessment of hemorrhagic and thromboembolic complications of AF in cancer patients in the aspect of age presented. During and after cancer treatment, the risk of developing AF can increase, also in connection with the age-associated pathology. Possible reasons of it are discussed. The choice of different anticoagulants groups in patients treated with anticancer therapy, including direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC) is considered. According to available data from observational studies, it is the DOAC that is a promising, relatively safe and effective choice for cancer patients with AF, and therefore their use should be actively studied in randomized trials, considering the factor of age. It is particularly noted that solving this problem requires the interdisciplinary involvement of cardiologists, oncologists, and sometimes, geriatrics, to individualize treatment for each case and to offer the most effective therapy.


Rhinological manifestations of Sjögren's syndrome: a cohort-matched, prospective, cross-sectional, observational study.
To assess the prevalence of abnormal rhinological findings in a Sjögren's syndrome population. A cohort-matched, prospective, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted. Sixty-seven subjects (30 patients and 37 controls) were enrolled. Rhinological assessment including smell threshold was evaluated using a standardised, validated clinical test as part of a larger study. Smell thresholds were -4.4 and -5.4 in the Sjögren's syndrome and control groups, respectively (p = 0.001). Hyposmia (threshold values of less than -4.5) was demonstrated in the Sjögren's syndrome group (47 per cent). Smell was negatively correlated with age (p = 0.040). Nasal septal perforation was noted in 3 Sjögren's syndrome patients (10 per cent) and nasal mucosal dryness in 10 patients (33 per cent), but none of the control group were affected. Hyposmia in Sjögren's syndrome was demonstrated using the Smell Threshold Test. Nasal septal perforation and nasal mucosa dryness were also noted in patients with Sjögren's syndrome. A diagnosis of Sjögren's syndrome should be considered and investigated in smell deprivation and/or nasal septal perforation patients.


Increasing effect of dietary taurine on the serum HDL-cholesterol concentration in rats.
Taurine, 2-amino ethanesulfonic acid, is the major free intracellular amino acid present in many tissues and plays an important role in lipid metabolism such as that of bile acid conjugation for fat absorption. The effect of taurine on the serum cholesterol level in normal rats was investigated. Taurine enhanced the serum HDL-cholesterol concentration in a dose-dependent manner without any change in total cholesterol.


Alteration of adenosine A1 receptor binding in the post-ischaemic rat brain.
Chronological changes of adenosine A1 receptor binding of the rat brain were determined by in vitro [3H]cyclohexyladenosine (CHA) autoradiography after 90 min of middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion and after such occlusion followed by different periods of recirculation. One day after the ischaemia, [3H]CHA binding sites decreased significantly in the cerebral cortex (p < 0.05) and lateral segment of the caudate putamen (p < 0.01), both supplied by the occluded MCA; thereafter, the binding sites decreased progressively in those ischaemic foci. On the contrary, there was no alteration on day 1, but 3 days after ischaemic insult, a significant decrease of [3H]CHA binding sites was first detected in the ipsilateral thalamus and the substantia nigra, both areas which had not been directly affected by the original ischaemic insult. This post-ischaemic delayed phenomenon observed in the thalamus and the substantia nigra developed concurrently with 45Ca accumulation, which was studied in our previous study. Based on the present study, alteration of adenosine A1 receptor binding activities is involved not only in the ischaemic foci, but also in the remote areas associated neuroanatomically with the ischaemic foci. We suggest that multi-focal post-ischaemic alterations of adenosine A1 binding activities may exacerbate clinical symptoms of patients at a chronic stage of stroke.


Yeast extract stimulates glucose metabolism and inhibits lipolysis in rat adipocytes in vitro.
Foods contain bioactive components that contribute to optimal health. Food-grade yeast may contain components that enhance cellular glucose metabolism. We tested the effect of brewer's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) extract (YE), in vitro on rat fat cell glucose transport, glucose metabolism to lipid, and lipolysis. YE was fractionated by reverse-phase chromatography on a C18 open column using ammonium acetate (0.05 mol/L, pH 5.8), with acetonitrile (40%) elution solvent into fraction 1 (Fx1), fraction 2 (Fx2) and fraction 3 (Fx3). Isolated rat adipocytes were preincubated with insulin (51 pmol/L), YE (10 mg/L) or both; transport of U-(14)C-glucose was measured. Adipocytes were incubated with insulin and YE fractions (10 mg/L); glucose metabolism to lipid was measured by incorporation of U-(14)C-glucose into total lipids. Lipolysis was measured by glycerol release. Insulin stimulated glucose transport to sevenfold the basal value (P < 0.05). YE did not affect glucose transport. Insulin stimulated glucose metabolism to 2.6-fold the basal value (P < 0.001); YE stimulated glucose metabolism 14% (P < 0.005). YE potentiated the action of insulin 30% (P < 0.002). YE Fx2 and Fx3 stimulated glucose metabolism 25-40% (P < 0.05). Insulin inhibited lipolysis 47% (P < 0.001). YE alone inhibited lipolysis 63% (P < 0.001). YE and insulin inhibited lipolysis 81% (P < 0.001). Fractions of YE inhibited lipolysis in the presence of insulin (P < 0.05); the order of potency was Fx2 = Fx3 >> Fx1. A novel yeast extract (YE) and its fractions affect pathways of adipocyte metabolism differentially. YE and its fractions are good candidates for in vivo study.


[Non-pegylated doxorubicin (Myocet®) as the less cardiotoxic alternative of free doxorubicin].
Anthracyclines have probably been considered to be the most active agents for the treatment of breast cancer and some other solid tumors and hematological malignancies. However, they are associated with dose-related cardiotoxicity, which can lead to progressive myocardial damage and limits the maximal cumulative dose that can be given. This review focuses on the non-pegylated liposome-encapsulated doxorubicin (Myocet®), which has been developed to increase the therapeutic index of free doxorubicin. The encapsulation of doxorubicin within a macromolecular vector, such as a liposome ("nanoparticle based drug delivery system") reduces its distribution volume, diminishing its toxicity for healthy tissues while increasing the concentration within the neoplastic tissue. The most common adverse event is neutropenia, which is consistent with previous experience with free doxorubicin. Available evidence suggests that the incidence of hematological toxicity is lower than with conventional doxorubicin. Myocet® both as a single agent and in combination is effective and safe with an associated reduction in incidence and severity of cardiac events. Nagykálnai T. Non-pegylated doxorubicin (Myocet®) as the less cardiotoxic alternative of free doxorubicin.


[Grading of tumor budding in intestinal-type early gastric adenocarcinoma and its role in assessing the risk of lymph node metastasis].
Objective: To investigate the role of tumor budding (TB) in predicting lymph node metastasis of intestinal-type early gastric adenocarcinoma, and to determine the optimal cutoff value of TB number. Methods: A total of 202 patients with intestinal-type early gastric adenocarcinoma, who underwent surgical operation at the Affiliated Wuxi People's Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Jiangsu, China from 2008 to 2018 were included. According to the International Tumor Budding Consensus Conference (ITBCC) criteria, the number of TB for each case was assessed. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was employed to determine the optimal cutoff value of TB number for predicting lymph node metastasis, and multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze whether a high TB number was an independent risk factor for lymph node metastasis. In addition, in the patients, who met the indications for endoscopic resection and developed lymph node metastasis, the association of a high number of TB with lymph node metastasis was examined. Results: TBs were observed in 63.4% (128/202) of intestinal-type early gastric adenocarcinomas. Using ROC curve, 4 TBs was found as the optimal cutoff value to predict lymph node metastasis (area under the curve 0.767; sensitivity 0.657; specificity 0.780). Therefore, the 202 cases were divided into two groups: the high-budding (≥4 TBs) group (n=60) and the low-budding (<4 TBs) group (n=142). The high-budding group exhibited a higher rate of lymph node metastasis than that of the low-budding group (41.7% vs 9.1%, P<0.01), and ≥4 TBs was associated with deeper invasion and lymph vessel invasion (P<0.01). The multivariate regression model showed that ≥4 TBs was an independent risk factor for lymph node metastasis (Hazard ratio=8.760, 95%CI 2.648-28.987; P<0.01). Meanwhile, 4 TBs as the cutoff value could better predict lymph node metastasis than the cutoff value advised by the ITBCC. In addition, 3 cases were found to have developed lymph node metastasis even that they met the expanded indications for endoscopic resection, and 2 of these 3 cases exhibited a higher TB number (≥4 TBs). Conclusions: More than 4 TBs are a useful indicator for predicting lymph node metastasis in intestinal-type early gastric adenocarcinoma. It may be used to as an endoscopic resection criterion for patients with a high risk of lymph node metastasis.


An automated submicron beam profiler for characterization of high numerical aperture optics.
An automated, interferometrically referenced scanning knife-edge beam profiler with submicron resolution is demonstrated by directly measuring the focusing properties of three aspheric lenses with numerical aperture (NA) between 0.53 and 0.68, with spatial resolution of 0.02 microm. The results obtained for two of the three lenses tested were in agreement with paraxial Gaussian beam theory. It was also found that the highest NA aspheric lens, which was designed for 830 nm, was not diffraction limited at 633 nm. This process was automated using motorized translation stages and provides a direct method for testing the design specifications of high numerical aperture optics.


Serum vanadium levels in chronic hemodialysis patients.
Serum vanadium, aluminum, silicon and beta 2-microglobulin levels as well as the red cell count, hemoglobin and systolic blood pressure were simultaneously measured in 80 chronic hemodialysis patients. The serum vanadium level was positively correlated with the serum levels of aluminum, silicon and beta 2-microglobulin as well as the systolic blood pressure, and was inversely correlated with the red cell count and hemoglobin. The mean serum vanadium level was 18.4 +/- 7.6 ng/ml before hemodialysis and decreased to 13.0 +/- 5.30 ng/ml at the completion of dialysis. The dialysate vanadium level increased from 0.4 +/- 0.2 (inflow) to 1.0 +/- 0.4 ng/ml (outflow). It was concluded that vanadium was transferred from blood to dialysate when purified water was used in the preparation of the dialysate.


Relationship of Mindfulness to Distress and Cortisol Response in Adolescent Girls At-Risk for Type 2 Diabetes.
Altered stress response theoretically contributes to the etiology of cardiometabolic disease. Mindfulness may be a protective buffer against the effects of stress on health outcomes by altering how individuals evaluate and respond to stress. We engaged adolescent girls at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes in a cold-pressor test in order to determine the relationship of dispositional mindfulness to cortisol response and subjective stress, including perceived pain and unpleasantness during the stressor, and negative affect following the stressor. We also evaluated mindfulness as a moderator of psychological distress (depressive/anxiety symptoms) and stress response. Participants were 119 girls age 12-17 years with overweight/obesity, family history of diabetes, and mild-to-moderate depressive symptoms. Greater mindfulness was associated with less perceived pain and negative affect, but was unrelated to cortisol response to the stressor. Regardless of mindfulness, greater depressive/anxiety symptoms related to a more blunted cortisol response. Mindfulness might promote better distress tolerance in adolescents at risk for diabetes by altering how youth perceive and relate to acute stress, rather than through altering the physiological stress response. At all levels of mindfulness, depressive/anxiety symptoms relate to greater blunting of cortisol response. Findings contribute to emerging literature on the role of mindfulness in promoting the mental and physical health and well-being of individuals at risk for Type 2 diabetes.


Enhancing the conversion efficiency of red emission by spin-coating CdSe quantum dots on the green nanorod light-emitting diode.
A hybrid structure of CdSe quantum dots (QDs) (λ = 640 nm) spin-coated on the indium gallium nitride (InGaN) nanorod light-emitting diode (LED, λ = 525 nm) is successfully fabricated. Experimental results indicate that the randomness and the minuteness of nanorods scatter the upcoming green light into the surrounding CdSe QDs efficiently, subsequently alleviating the likelihood of the emitted photons of red emission being recaptured by the CdSe QDs (self-absorption effect), and that increases the coupling probability of emission lights and the overall conversion efficiency. Moreover, the revealed structure with high color stability provides an alternative solution for general lighting applications of next generation.


Synthesis of high quality silver nanowires and their applications in ultrafast photonics.
Silver nanowires are widely used in catalysts, surface enhanced Raman scattering, microelectronic equipment, thin film solar cells, microelectrodes and biosensors for their excellent conductivity, heat transfer, low surface resistance, high transparency and good biocompatibility. However, the optical nonlinearity of silver nanowires has not been further explored yet. In this paper, three silver nanowire samples with different concentrations are produced via a typical hydrothermal method. Their applications to fiber lasers are implemented to prove the optical nonlinearity of silver nanowires for the first time. Based on three kinds of silver nanowires, the mode-locked operation of fiber lasers is successfully realized. Moreover, the fiber laser based on the silver nanowire with a concentration of 2 mg/L demonstrates the shortest pulse duration of 149.3 fs. The experiment not only proves the optical nonlinearity of silver nanowires, but also has some enlightenment on the selection of the optimum concentration of silver nanowires in the consideration of ultrashort pulse output.


Curative Effects of Remote Home Management Combined with Feng's Spinal Manipulation on the Treatment of Elderly Patients with Lumbar Disc Herniation.
To explore the curative effects of remote home management combined with Feng's spinal manipulation on the treatment of elderly patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH). The clinical data of 100 patients with LDH in our hospital (December 2019-December 2020) were retrospectively reviewed. The 100 patients were equally divided into a routine treatment group and interventional group according to the order of admission. The routine treatment group received conventional rehabilitation training, and the interventional group received remote home management combined with Feng's spinal manipulation. The Oswestry disability index (ODI) and straight leg raising test were adopted for the assessment of the degrees of dysfunction and straight leg raising angles of the two groups after intervention. The curative effects of the two rehabilitation programs were evaluated. Compared with the routine treatment group, the interventional group had a remarkably higher excellent and good rate (P < 0.05), a significantly lower average ODI score after intervention (P < 0.001), notably higher straight leg raising angle, surface AEMG (average electromyogram) during stretching and tenderness threshold after intervention (P < 0.001), markedly lower muscular tension, surface AEMG during buckling, and flexion-extension relaxation ratio (FRR; (P < 0.001)), and much higher quality of life scores after intervention (P < 0.001). The remote home management combined with Feng's spinal manipulation, as a reliable method to improve the quality of life and the back muscular strength of the elderly patients with LDH, can substantially increase the straight leg raising angle and reduce the degree of dysfunction. Further study is conducive to establishing a better solution for the patients with LDH.


[Screening for high risk cardiac diseases in athletes].
The prevention of cardiovascular complications occurring during sporting activity requires detection of well-known pathologies which are often clinically latent but which may present with sudden death. The problem of detection and the recommendations and French laws concerning this subject are summarised in this article.


Pyridostigmine Induced Prolonged Asystole in a Patient with Myasthenia Gravis Successfully Treated with Hyoscyamine.
Reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are used as first-line treatment for myasthenia gravis. They improve symptoms by increasing concentration of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction and stimulating nicotinic receptors. Serious bradyarrhythmias can occur from muscarinic stimulation in heart, which in rare cases may progress to asystole. These patients can initially be managed with hyoscyamine, a muscarinic antagonist. Persistence of bradyarrhythmias even after hyoscyamine treatment may warrant pacemaker placement. We present a case of 65-year-old female patient who presented with diplopia, dysphagia, and muscle weakness who was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis. She developed significant sinoatrial node block with prolonged asystole after starting treatment with pyridostigmine which was successfully treated with hyoscyamine, thus avoiding pacemaker placement.


Sulforaphane stimulates activation of proapoptotic protein bax leading to apoptosis of endothelial progenitor cells.
Sulforaphane (SUL) is an isothiocyanate naturally present in widely consumed vegetables, particularly in broccoli. SUL has recently been focused as a result of its inhibitory effects on tumor cell growth in vitro and in vivo. We used endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) as an in vitro model to investigate the effect of SUL on the various steps of vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from blood of normal human volunteers were plated on fibronectin-coated 100 mm dishes and incubated for 7 days. The viability of EPCs, treated with SUL at different doses, was assessed by MTS assay. Cell apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry. To determine the relative contributions of caspase-8 and caspase-9 pathways to SUL-induced apoptosis, the effect of caspase inhibitors was determined. The expression of apoptosis-related proteins (Bax, Bcl-2) was investigated by Western blot test. Finally, the effect of SUL on the ability of EPCs to form vascular-like structures on Matrigel was investigated. We clearly demonstrated that SUL induced the dose-dependent inhibition of EPCs' viability by induction of apoptosis. All caspases (caspase-3, -8, and -9) were activated during apoptosis induction by SUL, but the effect of caspase-9 was more prominent than that of caspase-8. Also, the expression of Bax was upregulated by SUL treatment. In addition to apoptosis induction, SUL dose-dependently inhibited the tube-like formation by EPCs on Matrigel. The present results demonstrate the antivasculogenic/antiangiogenic activity of SUL in vitro and open premise for the use of SUL as a multipotent anticancer agent that targets both cancer cells and the angiogenic endothelium.


Characterization of a New Tymovirus Causing Stunting and Chlorotic Mosaic in Naranjilla (Solanum quitoense).
Naranjilla ("little orange"), also known as lulo (Solanum quitoense Lam.), is a perennial shrub species cultivated in the Andes for fresh fruit and juice production. In 2015, a naranjilla plant exhibiting stunting, mosaic, and chlorotic spots was sampled in the Pastaza province of Ecuador and maintained under greenhouse conditions. An infectious agent was mechanically transmitted to indicator plants and was subjected to biological and molecular characterization. Spherical particles approximately 30 nm in diameter, composed of a single 20-kDa capsid protein, were observed under an electron microscope in infected naranjilla plants. High-throughput sequencing conducted on inoculated Nicotiana benthamiana plants produced a single sequence contig sharing the closest relationship with several tymoviruses. The entire 6,245-nucleotide genome of a new tymovirus was amplified using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction and resequenced with the Sanger methodology. The genome had three open reading frames typical of tymoviruses, and displayed a whole-genome nucleotide identity level with the closest tymovirus, Eggplant mosaic virus, at 71% (90% coverage). This tymovirus from naranjilla was able to systemically infect eggplant, tamarillo, N. benthamiana, and naranjilla. In naranjilla, it produced mosaic, chlorotic spots, and stunting, similar to the symptoms observed in the original plant. The virus was unable to infect potato and tobacco and unable to systemically infect pepper plants, replicating only in inoculated leaves. We concluded that this virus represented a new tymovirus infecting naranjilla, and proposed the tentative name Naranjilla chlorotic mosaic virus (NarCMV).


The effect of estrogen therapy on cerebral metabolism in diabetic female rats.
The impact of estrogen on brain function, especially in individuals with diabetes, remains uncertain. This study aims to compare cerebral glucose metabolism levels in intact rats, ovariectomized (OVX) rats, and 17β-estradiol (E2)-treated OVX diabetic female rats. Sixteen rats were administered a single intraperitoneal injection of 70 mg/kg streptozotocin (STZ) to induce diabetes (intact, n = 6; OVX, n = 6; OVX+E2-treated, n = 4). Additionally, 18 rats received an equivalent solvent dose via intraperitoneal injection (intact, n = 6; OVX, n = 6; OVX+E2-treated, n = 6). After 4 weeks of STZ or solvent administration, positron emission tomography scans with 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) injection were employed to assess cerebral glucose metabolism. The diabetic rats exhibited substantial reductions in 18F-FDG uptake across all brain regions (all P < 0.01), in contrast to the control rats. Moreover, intact and OVX + E2-treated diabetic female rats displayed more pronounced decreases in cerebral glucose metabolism in the amygdala and hippocampus compared to OVX diabetic female rats (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that diabetes creates an environment wherein estrogen exacerbates neuropathology and intensifies neuronal activity.


Pudendal SEP and bulbocavernosus reflex in women.
A new simple method for the electrical stimulation of the dorsal nerve of clitoris is presented. Well-formed cortical somatosensory evoked potentials could be recorded in 12 continent adult females without nervous system involvement at a stimulus intensity of 4 times 'sensory threshold.' The procedure was well tolerated by the subjects; the bulbocavernosus reflex responses were, however, not always obtainable at this stimulus intensity.


Behavior of sister copies of mini-F plasmid after synchronized plasmid replication in Escherichia coli cells.
To clarify whether sister copies of mini-F plasmid are immediately separated from each other after replication, we analyzed the behavior of sister mini-F copies after synchronized replication of mini-F. Sister copies of mini-F were separated immediately or shortly after replication, in contrast to sister oriC copies of the Escherichia coli chromosome.


Expression of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase V in gastric cancer correlates with metastasis and prognosis.
N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase V (GnT-V) is an enzyme that catalyzes β1-6 branching of N-acetylglucosamine on asparagine (N)-linked oligosaccharides (N-glycan) of cell proteins and the dysfunction of which is a common feature of various carcinomas. Nevertheless, the role of GnT-V remains controversial. Therefore, the clinical implication of GnT-V expression may differ in each cancer type. The implication of GnT-V status in patients with gastric cancer has not been studied extensively. In the present study, we examined GnT-V expression in gastric cancer specimen both at protein and mRNA levels. We compared GnT-V expression with clinical and pathologic variables. Kaplan-Meier survival curves were generated to show the cause-specific survival. Furthermore, the small interfering RNA was devised to downregulate the GnT-V mRNA expression in SGC7901 and BGC 823 cells. We characterized the function implication of GnT-V by cell proliferation and invasiveness analysis. Analysis in gastric cancer specimen revealed that GnT-V expression correlated with tumor grade and stage. The overall survival time of positive GnT-V expression in gastric cancer was significantly shorter than that of negative GnT-V expression. Moreover, the downregulation of GnT-V expression by small interfering RNA resulted in a decrease of cell proliferation and invasiveness in SGC7901 and BGC 823 cells accompanied by morphological change. This supports that GnT-V correlates with metastasis and prognosis in gastric cancer. These results contribute to new insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms of GnT-V regulation in gastric cancer with potential translational clinical applications.


Kinematical analysis of the snatch in elite male junior weightlifters of different weight categories.
The purpose of this study was to analyze the differences in the technical pattern of the snatch in elite junior weightlifters of different weight categories. The sample was a group of 33 men weightlifters from different weight categories. The comparative study included 2 groups, taking into account weight categories. Group A included 17 weightlifters from the lightest categories, 56 and 62 kg; group B included 16 weightlifters from the heaviest categories, 85 and 105 kg. Three-dimensional photogrammetry technique was utilized. Regarding group differences, we can conclude that lifters belonging to heavier categories are more efficient, as they manage to have longer barbell propulsion trajectories, which allows them to exert actions on the barbell for a longer period, especially in the initial lifting phase. They attain greater barbell vertical velocity (p = 0.029), a longer vertical bar trajectory normalized on first pull (p = 0.011), and a greater, although limited, bar height loss on the catch (p = 0.008). Besides, intergroup differences evidence that heavier category lifters observe a different temporal organization of the movement based on a longer first pull (p = 0.000), a shorter transition (p = 0.030), and a longer turnover (p = 0.049). No significant differences were found in the analyzed angular parameters during the first and second pull. We believe the intergroup differences found not to be determining enough to consider a technical model adapted to the characteristics of each body weight category. This confirms that a successful lift is multifactor based and individual dependent. Given its transcendence, this evidence should be taken into account in the technical training of young lifters.


Investigational antiarrhythmic agents: promising drugs in early clinical development.
Although there have been important technological advances for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias (e.g., catheter ablation technology), antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) remain the cornerstone therapy for the majority of patients with arrhythmias. Most of the currently available AADs were coincidental findings and did not result from a systematic development process based on known arrhythmogenic mechanisms and specific targets. During the last 20 years, our understanding of cardiac electrophysiology and fundamental arrhythmia mechanisms has increased significantly, resulting in the identification of new potential targets for mechanism-based antiarrhythmic therapy. Areas covered: Here, we review the state-of-the-art in arrhythmogenic mechanisms and AAD therapy. Thereafter, we focus on a number of antiarrhythmic targets that have received significant attention recently: atrial-specific K+-channels, the late Na+-current, the cardiac ryanodine-receptor channel type-2, and the small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+-channel. We highlight for each of these targets available antiarrhythmic agents and the evidence for their antiarrhythmic effect in animal models and early clinical development. Expert opinion: Targeting AADs to specific subgroups of well-phenotyped patients is likely necessary to detect improved outcomes that may be obscured in the population at large. In addition, specific combinations of selective AADs may have synergistic effects and may enable a mechanism-based tailored antiarrhythmic therapy.


Stereoselective toxicity and metabolism of lactofen in primary hepatocytes from rat.
The stereoselective metabolism of lactofen in primary rat hepatocytes was studied using a chiral high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method. Rac-lactofen and its two enantiomers, S-(+)- and R-(-)-lactofen, as well as two of its major metabolites, acifluorfen, S-(+)- and R-(-)-desethyl lactofen, were used as substrates,. The single and joint cytotoxicity of parent compounds and the metabolites were assessed by coincubation with rat hepatocytes as target cells. Cytotoxicity was determined by the methyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay. In hepatocyte incubations, S-(+)-lactofen was degraded more rapidly than R-(-)-lactofen, and a stereospecific formation of S-(+)-desethyl lactofen was detected. Metabolism of lactofen to desethyl lactofen was processed with the retention of configuration, and the achiral compound, acifluorfen, was the shared metabolite generated from both S-(+)- and R-(-)-lactofen. There was no chiral conversion of lactofen or desethyl lactofen enantiomers during the incubation. For the cytotoxicity research, the calculated EC50 values indicated that when being applied individually, the parent compound was less toxic than its metabolites, while the combination with metabolites enhanced its cytotoxic effects. The data presented here would be helpful for a more comprehensive assessment of the ecotoxicological and environmental risks of lactofen.


LEA-1/ICAM-1 interaction is essentially involved in the pathogenesis of delayed-type hypersensitivity-induced liver injury to picryl chloride.
The kinetics of lymphocyte function associated antigen 1 (LFA-1) expression on spleen cells (SPC) and liver non-parenchymal cells (NPC), and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) expression on hepatocytes (HC) was examined in acute liver injury mice induced by a DTH reaction to picryl chloride (PCl). The peak expression of LFA-1 on SPC was seen at 6 hr after eliciting liver injury, and then that of LFA-1 on NPC and ICAM-1 on HC appeared at 12 hr. Thereafter, the serum ALT elevation reached to a peak at 18 hr. A splenectomy before the PCl elicitation significantly reduced the ALT elevation. Both SPC and NPC from liver injury mice induced a remarkable release of ALT from HC in vitro, in parallel with their LFA-1 expression. The pre-treatment of NPC or SPC with anti-LFA-1 mAb, irrespective of the presence of complement, completely blocked the ALT release. Also, when HC was prebound with anti-ICAM-1 mAb, neither NPC nor SPC showed a cytotoxicity against the HC. Furthermore, the treatment of NPC with either anti-Thy1.2 or anti-CD4 mAb in the presence but not absence of complement, showed a complete abolishment of ALT release. Anti-CD8 mAb plus complement also tended to inhibit ALT release. The twofold increase in CD4+ LFA-1+ and mild increase in CD8+ LFA-1+ populations were also confirmed in NPC at 12 hr. These results suggest that PCl elicitation in liver may trigger an increased expression of LFA-1 on SPC and NPC and ICAM-1 on HC. LFA-1/ICAM-1 interaction between liver-infiltrating NPC, mainly including CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and HC may be an essential step for the hepatocyte damage in PCl-DTH liver injury.


The CpG Dinucleotide Adjacent to a κB Site Affects NF-κB Function through Its Methylation.
NF-κB is an important transcription factor that plays critical roles in cell survival, proliferation, inflammation, and cancers. Although the majority of experimentally identified functional NF-κB binding sites (κB sites) match the consensus sequence, there are plenty of non-functional NF-κB consensus sequences in the genome. We analyzed the surrounding sequences of the known κB sites that perfectly match the GGGRNNYYCC consensus sequence and identified the nucleotide at the -1 position of κB sites as a key contributor to the binding of the κB sites by NF-κB. We demonstrated that a cytosine at the -1 position of a κB site (-1C) could be methylated, which thereafter impaired NF-κB binding and/or function. In addition, all -1C κB sites are located in CpG islands and are conserved during evolution only when they are within CpG islands. Interestingly, when there are multiple NF-κB binding possibilities, methylation of -1C might increase NF-κB binding. Our finding suggests that a single nucleotide at the -1 position of a κB site could be a critical factor in NF-κB functioning and could be exploited as an additional manner to regulate the expression of NF-κB target genes.


Feasibility of in-home telehealth for conducting nursing research.
The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of using home audio/ video telehealth equipment for administering nursing interventions to families, observing the client response, and collecting research data over specific intervals of time. The study design was a descriptive comparison with observational data collection. The subjects were adult patients (n = 5) using nighttime mechanical ventilators for obstructive sleep apnea and their home caregivers (n = 7). Skin color vital signs, spirometry, and pulse oximetry data collected simultaneously through telehealth equipment and through nurse observation in the home were the same. Care and the caregiver's use of the patient equipment were also observed. When nursing interventions, equipment demonstrations, visual illustrations, and audiotaped educational directions were used to facilitate patient care, they were transmitted across telehealth with a few exceptions. Costs of telehealth visits were less than traditional home visits, and client evaluations of telehealth were positive.


Zeolite encapsulation decreases TiO2-photosensitized ROS generation in cultured human skin fibroblasts.
Sunscreens protect skin against sunburn. However, studies have demonstrated that UV-irradiated sunscreen components such as titanium dioxide (TiO2) promote the photogeneration of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Because encapsulation of TiO2 within zeolites alters its photocatalytic activity, supramolecular composites based on NaY zeolite hosts containing TiO2 guests were prepared, and the effects on ROS formation in cells under UVA-irradiation evaluated. DCFH-DA (2',7'-dichlorofluorescein diacetate) was used as a profluorescent probe to monitor intracellular ROS. The detection of intracellular 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein (DCF) fluorescence by confocal microscopy revealed that DCFH-DA was taken up, hydrolyzed and oxidized by yeast cells and cultured human skin fibroblasts within 20 and 6 min, respectively. Higher DCF fluorescence was observed in fibroblasts following UVA irradiation in the absence but not in the presence of the radical nitroxide, TEMPOL (4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperydine-1-oxyl), which exhibits superoxide dismutase-mimetic and catalase-mimetic activity. UVA-induced fluorescence increased by approximately 50% in the presence of 32-nm anatase TiO2 particles and decreased by essentially an equal amount in the presence of TiO2 encapsulated within NaY zeolites (TiO2@NaY). Addition of the uncomplexed NaY host also decreased (by approximately 30%) the amount of UVA-induced fluorescence but, unexpectedly, the combination of the free guest and host (TiO2+NaY) caused a doubling of the fluorescence. Protection of cells against TiO2-induced intracellular ROS by encapsulation suggests that supramolecular species may be beneficial in photoprotection of the skin. In contrast, the potentiation of TiO2-induced ROS by uncomplexed NaY points to a critical role for formulation when free TiO2 is used as a sun screen ingredient.


[Preparation of monoclonal antibody against 4-amylphenol and homology modeling of its Fv fragment].
Objective To prepare and characterize a monoclonal antibody (mAb) against 4-amylphenol (4-AP), clone its cDNA sequence and make homology modeling for its Fv fragment. Methods A high-affinity anti-4-AP mAb was generated from a hybridoma cell line F10 using electrofusion between splenocytes from APA-BSA-immunized mouse and Sp2/0 myeloma cells. Then we extracted the mRNA of F10 cells and cloned the cDNA of mAb. The homology modeling and molecular docking of its Fv fragment was conducted with biological software. Results Under the optimum conditions, the ic-ELISA equation was y=A2+(A1-A2)/(1+(x/x0)p) (A1=1.28; A2=-0.066; x0=12560.75; p=0.74) with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.997. The lowest detectable limit was 0.65 μg/mL. The heavy and light chains of mAb respectively belonged to IgG1 and Kappa. The homology modeling and molecular docking studies revealed that the binding of 4-Ap and mAb was attributed to the hydrogen bond and hydrophobic interactions. Conclusion The study successfully established a stable 4-AP mAb-secreting hybridoma cell line. The study on spatial structure of Fv fragment using homology modeling provided a reference for the development and design of single chain variable fragments.


Staring death in the face: chimpanzees' attention towards conspecific skulls and the implications of a face module guiding their behaviour.
Chimpanzees exhibit a variety of behaviours surrounding their dead, although much less is known about how they respond towards conspecific skeletons. We tested chimpanzees' visual attention to images of conspecific and non-conspecific stimuli (cat/chimp/dog/rat), shown simultaneously in four corners of a screen in distinct orientations (frontal/diagonal/lateral) of either one of three types (faces/skulls/skull-shaped stones). Additionally, we compared their visual attention towards chimpanzee-only stimuli (faces/skulls/skull-shaped stones). Lastly, we tested their attention towards specific regions of chimpanzee skulls. We theorized that chimpanzee skulls retaining face-like features would be perceived similarly to chimpanzee faces and thus be subjected to similar biases. Overall, supporting our hypotheses, the chimpanzees preferred conspecific-related stimuli. The results showed that chimpanzees attended: (i) significantly longer towards conspecific skulls than other species skulls (particularly in forward-facing and to a lesser extent diagonal orientations); (ii) significantly longer towards conspecific faces than other species faces at forward-facing and diagonal orientations; (iii) longer towards chimpanzee faces compared with chimpanzee skulls and skull-shaped stones, and (iv) attended significantly longer to the teeth, similar to findings for elephants. We suggest that chimpanzee skulls retain relevant, face-like features that arguably activate a domain-specific face module in chimpanzees' brains, guiding their attention.


THE HEART LEFT VENTRICLE DIASTOLIC FUNCTION DURING EXERCISES OF DIFFERENT POWER IN ATHLETES.
The aim of the research was to investigate diastolic left ventricle function in athletes performing exercises requiring varying power using echocardiography. We surveyed 68 athletes aged from 12 to 27 years who were involved in swimming and volleyball. Echocardiography was used to assess cardiohaemodynamic changes in athletes using a bicycle ergometer to exercise at varying intensities. Exercising at submaximal and average power produces a proportional increase in indices of diastolic function of the heart: maximum speed of early diastolic mitral inflow streams (E) to 81,9±20,0 сm/s and maximum speed of early diastolic and mitral annulus velocity (е') to 16,6±5,7 сm/s. It led to constant ratio E/e' 6,73±2,83 units. The early symptoms of physical strain on the cardiovascular system were signs of myocardial relaxation violation during diastole. Symptoms appeared during the maximum power load and led to a large increase in E compared to e', which was manifested in the Е/е' increase to 7,33±3,69 units (р<0,05). Continued physical activity lowered the global systolic function of the left ventricle. Additional early indicator of physical strain is length of early diastolic inflow deceleration time, which at above-threshold load was reduced more than 50 ms.


A novel biomimetic composite substitute of PLLA/gelatin nanofiber membrane for dura repairing.
Biomimetic design will significantly improve growth and regeneration of dural cells and tissue for better repairing effects and fewer complications in repairing the native dura. This study designed a novel composite, biomimetic substitute based on the characteristics of native dura extracellular matrix. This substitute is expected to rapidly induce cell adhesion, migration, and fast regeneration of neotissue. The material characteristics (contact angle, surface charge, and zeta potential were evaluated), in vitro biological characteristics (cell stretch, connections between cells, cell proliferation) and in vivo tissue regeneration capability of this substitute were evaluated, compared to those of collagen dura substitute, the mostly used dura substitute. The results showed that the surface properties of this composite substitute were more biomimetic to native extracellular matrix than collagen substitute did, together with better cytocompatibility, tissue ingrowth, and neoangiogenesis. This composite substitute further demonstrated in clinical case study its ideal repair effect with no CSF leakage or other adverse reactions. In conclusion, the new biomimetic composite substitute provides alternative substitute for dura repairing.


Professional development through policy advocacy: communicating and advocating for health and health equity.
Communicating and advocating for evidence-based public health policy is a key component of health promotion practice, but public health professionals often lack experience in policy advocacy. This article provides perspectives from public health professionals who participated in successful public health policy advocacy efforts in their community. Their experiences using evidence-based research to advocate for policies that promote health equity contributed significantly to their career development, and also contributed to community capacity to reduce tobacco-related disparities. This article builds on previous work emphasizing the value of career development opportunities that enhance and diversify the public health workforce, and provides practical tips and "lessons learned" that are relevant to a wide range of public health professionals.


A Combined Digital PCR and Next Generation DNA-Sequencing Based Approach for Tracking Nearshore Pollutant Dynamics Along the Southwest United States/Mexico Border.
Ocean currents, multiple fecal bacteria input sources, and jurisdictional boundaries can complicate pollution source tracking and associated mitigation and management efforts within the nearshore coastal environment. In this study, multiple microbial source tracking tools were employed to characterize the impact and reach of an ocean wastewater treatment facility discharge in Mexico northward along the coast and across the Southwest United States- Mexico Border. Water samples were evaluated for fecal indicator bacteria (FIB), Enterococcus by culture-based methods, and human-associated genetic marker (HF183) and Enterococcus by droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR). In addition, 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis was performed and the SourceTracker algorithm was used to characterize the bacterial community of the wastewater treatment plume and its contribution to beach waters. Sampling dates were chosen based on ocean conditions associated with northern currents. Evidence of a gradient in human fecal pollution that extended north from the wastewater discharge across the United States/Mexico border from the point source was observed using human-associated genetic markers and microbial community analysis. The spatial extent of fecal contamination observed was largely dependent on swell and ocean conditions. These findings demonstrate the utility of a combination of molecular tools for understanding and tracking specific pollutant sources in dynamic coastal water environments.


Interspecies predation between Anopheles gambiae s.s. and Culex quinquefasciatus larvae.
Interaction of aquatic stages of coexisting mosquito species may have significant influence on resulting adult mosquito populations. We used two coexisting species, Anopheles gambiae s.s. and Culex quinquefasciatus to investigate whether third instars of one species consumed first instars of the other. First instars of one species were readily consumed by a third instar of the other species irrespective food quantity. DNA of Cx. quinquefasciatus was detected in the eight An. gambiae s.s. third instars presumed to have consumed at least one Cx. quinquefasciatus first instar. Likewise, DNA of An. gambiae s.s. was detected in five of eight Cx. quinquefasciatus third instars presumed to have consumed at least one An. gambiae s.s. first instar. A small number of dead first instars was found in the controls indicating that some larvae in the treatment group may have been consumed after they had died. These findings suggest that intraguild predation between the two species may be common in nature and that it is a facultative process that is not induced by food shortage. The findings further suggest that polymerase chain reaction could be a useful technique in the study of this phenomenon in natural habitats.


Classical description of the parameter space geometry in the Dicke and Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick models.
We study the classical analog of the quantum metric tensor and its scalar curvature for two well-known quantum physics models. First, we analyze the geometry of the parameter space for the Dicke model with the aid of the classical and quantum metrics and find that, in the thermodynamic limit, they have the same divergent behavior near the quantum phase transition, as opposed to their corresponding scalar curvatures which are not divergent there. On the contrary, under resonance conditions, both scalar curvatures exhibit a divergence at the critical point. Second, we present the classical and quantum metrics for the Lipkin-Meshkov-Glick model in the thermodynamic limit and find a perfect agreement between them. We also show that the scalar curvature is only defined on one of the system's phases and that it approaches a negative constant value. Finally, we carry out a numerical analysis for the system's finite sizes, which clearly shows the precursors of the quantum phase transition in the metric and its scalar curvature and allows their characterization as functions of the parameters and of the system's size.


Vascular precursor cells in tissue injury repair.
Vascular precursor cells include stem cells and progenitor cells giving rise to all mature cell types in the wall of blood vessels. When tissue injury occurs, local hypoxia and inflammation result in the generation of vasculogenic mediators which orchestrate migration of vascular precursor cells from their niche environment to the site of tissue injury. The intricate crosstalk among signaling pathways coordinates vascular precursor cell proliferation and differentiation during neovascularization. Establishment of normal blood perfusion plays an essential role in the effective repair of the injured tissue. In recent years, studies on molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of vascular precursor cell function have achieved substantial progress, which promotes exploration of vascular precursor cell-based approaches to treat chronic wounds and ischemic diseases in vital organ systems. Verification of safety and establishment of specific guidelines for the clinical application of vascular precursor cell-based therapy remain major challenges in the field.


[Fascin expression in human epithelial tumors and its clinical significance].
To investigate the expression of FSCN1 in human epithelial tumors and their clinical significance. FSCN1 expression was examined immunohistochemically in specimens of human epithelial tumors, including 26 cases of lung cancer, 33 cervical cancer, 22 ovarian cancer, 38 esophageal cancer, 24 pancreatic cancer, 23 gastric cancer, 29 laryngocarcinoma, 17 primary hepatocellular carcinoma, 34 colorectal cancer, 33 breast cancer, 24 nasopharyngeal carcinoma and their corresponding normal tissues. The positivity rates of FSCN1 expression in epithelial tissues and epithelial tumors were 6.3% (5/80) and 58.7% (178/303), respectively. FSCN1 showed higher expressions in cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, gastric cancer, laryngocarcinoma, colorectal cancer, breast cancer and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, but lower or no expression in the corresponding normal tissues (P<0.05). In gastric cancer and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, the edges of the tumors were more strongly stained for FSCN1 than the interior of the tumor. FSCN1 expression is significantly upregulated in human epithelial tumors in close correlation with tumor occurrence and progression.


Group therapy compared with individual desensitization for dental anxiety.
Effects of group therapy (GT) on extreme dental anxiety were compared with individual treatment (IT). Results by scales of dental anxiety, beliefs or trust in dentists, and fear of the next dentist after specialist treatment showed reduced dental anxiety and improved dental beliefs compared with a static control group of 45 patients. The 30 GT patients showed no significant difference in dropouts during training compared with the 68 IT patients, but for patients who completed treatment, GT (n = 24) had greater dental anxiety reduction than IT subjects (n = 60). GT patients required fewer therapist hours per patients than did either of the two IT methods, but time saved in GT did not reach significance over clinical rehearsal IT. Results at 1-yr follow-up after specialist treatment indicated that dropouts were significantly greater in group therapy. Rehearsal IT performed best for sustained dental care behavior. Group dynamics are discussed and suggestions made for effective and efficient group therapy as well as decision making about choice of treatment.


Dynamic insecticide susceptibility changes in Florida populations of Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae).
Five field populations of Diaphorina citri Kuwayama from various regions of Florida were evaluated in 2011 for resistance to commonly used insecticides. Three diagnostic doses (LD50, LD75, and LD95), developed in 2009 using a laboratory susceptible population, were used to measure changes in susceptibility levels of field-collected populations as compared with a susceptible laboratory population. Further reductions in the susceptibility levels of D. citri to chlorpyriphos and fenpropathrin were determined, compared with results obtained in 2010. Mean percent mortality obtained from all five locations was significantly lower than observed with the laboratory susceptible population for all insecticides tested. Previously, expression of five CYP4 genes was implicated in contributing to insecticide metabolism in D. citri. In the current study, we compared the relative expression of these five CYP4 genes and their associated levels of protein expression among field-collected and laboratory susceptible populations. Expression of all CYP4 genes investigated was higher in field-collected populations when normalized against the laboratory susceptible population. There was an increased signal of a band corresponding to a 45 kDa protein in four of the five field populations as measured by the Western blot assay, which suggests increased production of cytochrome P450 enzymes. The current results indicate that insecticide resistance continues to increase in Florida populations ofD. citri, particularly to chlorpyriphos and fenpropathrin. However, there was no further decrease in susceptibility of Florida populations of D. citri to neonicotinoid insecticides in 2011 as compared with previous years.


Association of global and disease-specific health status with outcomes following continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation.
The prognostic value of heart failure specific and global health status before and after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation in the usual care setting is not well studied. We included 3,836 continuous-flow LVAD patients in the INTERMACS registry. Health status was measured pre-operatively and 3 months post-LVAD using the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) and EuroQol visual analog scale (VAS). Primary outcomes were mortality/rehospitalization. Inverse propensity weighting was used to minimize bias from missing data. Pre-operative global and heart failure-specific health status were very poor: KCCQ median 34.6 (IQR 21.4-50.5); VAS median 43 (interquartile range (IQR) 25-65). Health status measures improved 3 months after LVAD placement: KCCQ median 69.3 (IQR 54.2-82.3); VAS median 75 (IQR 60-85). Pre-operative health status was not associated with death (unadjusted HR for lowest vs. highest score quartiles: 1.09 (0.85-1.41) KCCQ; 1.12 (0.85-1.49) VAS) or rehospitalization (unadjusted HR 0.83 (0.72-0.96) KCCQ; 0.99 (0.85-1.16) VAS). Three-month KCCQ was associated with mortality (unadjusted HR 2.17 (1.47-3.21); VAS was not (1.43 (0.94-2.17). Three-month KCCQ added incremental discriminatory value to the HeartMate II Risk Score for death (c-stat 0.60 to 0.66); VAS did not (c-stat 0.59 to 0.60). Three-month health status was associated with rehospitalization (unadjusted HR 1.31 (1.15-1.57) KCCQ; 1.24 (1.05-1.46) VAS), but did not add incremental discriminatory value (c-stat 0.52 to 0.55 and 0.54, respectively). These real-world data suggest that pre-operative health status has limited association with outcomes after LVAD. However, persistently low health status after surgery may independently signal higher risk for subsequent death. Further study is needed to determine the clinical utility of routinely collected health status data after LVAD implantation.


A novel phosphotyrosine motif with a critical amino acid at position -2 for the SH2 domain-mediated activation of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1.
SHP-1 is a protein-tyrosine phosphatase associated with inhibition of activation pathways in hematopoietic cells. The catalytic activity of SHP-1 is regulated by its two SH2 (Src homology 2) domains; phosphotyrosine peptides that bind to the SH2 domains activate SHP-1. The consensus sequence (I/V)XYXX(L/V) is present in the cytoplasmic tails of several lymphocyte receptors that interact with the second SH2 domain of SHP-1. In several of these receptors, there are two or three occurrences of the motif. Here we show that the conserved hydrophobic amino acid preceding the phosphotyrosine is critical for binding to and activation of SHP-1 by peptides corresponding to sequences from killer cell inhibitory receptors. The interaction of most SH2 domains with phosphopeptides requires only the phosphotyrosine and the three residues downstream of the tyrosine. In contrast, the shortest peptide able to bind or activate SHP-1 also included the two residues upstream of the phosphotyrosine. A biphosphopeptide corresponding to the cytoplasmic tail of a killer cell inhibitory receptor with the potential to interact simultaneously with both SH2 domains of SHP-1 was the most potent activator of SHP-1. The hydrophobic residue upstream of the tyrosine was also critical in the context of the biphosphopeptide. The contribution of a hydrophobic amino acid two residues upstream of the tyrosine in the SHP-1-binding motif may be an important feature that distinguishes inhibitory receptors from those that provide activation signals.


Bone marrow transplantation for poor prognosis neuroblastoma.
These studies suggest that intensive chemoradiotherapy (eg., VAMP-TBI), if given relatively soon after diagnosis and before development of progressive disease, improves long-term survival for patients with advanced neuroblastoma. Although this particular therapy is not useful for those who already have developed progressive disease, other intensive regimens may warrant testing in this latter group of patients. Our current study is testing aggressive induction chemotherapy, ex vivo purging of autologous marrow, and VAMP-TBI followed by BMT. Because of the increasing risk of progressive disease with time after diagnosis, we recommend beginning the BMT phase by 20 weeks after diagnosis. This should result in 85% of newly diagnosed patients entering the BMT phase without progressive disease; and, with fewer toxic deaths, 90% should survive the BMT phase. Thus, approximately 70% of patients could be disease-free survivors 8-9 months after diagnosis. Because a significant number of patients still develop progressive disease during induction or after BMT, efforts are being made to improve induction and pretransplant therapies and to identify prognostic factors. If modifications of the current regimens do not decrease the rate of progressive disease, it may be necessary to develop additional or different therapy for patients identified to be at high risk. Hopefully, new strategies will further increase the percentage of patients with tumor-free survival.


Molecular epidemiology of human cutaneous leishmaniasis in Jericho and its vicinity in Palestine from 1994 to 2015.
Cutaneous leishmaniases (CL) are vector-borne parasitic diseases endemic in many countries of the Middle East including Palestine. Between 1994 and 2015, 2160 clinically suspected human cases of CL from the Jericho District were examined. Stained skin tissue smears and aspirates were checked by microscopy and cultured for promastigotes, respectively. For leishmanial species identification, amplification products from a PCR-ITS1 followed by RFLP analysis using Hae III. Data were analyzed using Epi Info free-software. The overall infection rate was 41.4% (895/2160), 56.3% (504/895) of the cases were male, 43.7% (391/895) female, 60.5% (514/849) children under age 14, 41.3% (259/627) of the cases were caused by Leishmaniamajor and 57.3% (359/627) by Leishmaniatropica. The case numbers peaked in 1995, 2001, 2004, and 2012. Statistically-significant clusters of cases caused by L. major were restricted to the Jericho District; those caused by L. tropica were from the districts of Jericho, Bethlehem, Nablus and Tubas. CL is seasonal and trails the sand fly season. Distribution of cases was parabolic with fewest in July. The monthly total number of cases of CL and just those caused by L. major correlated significantly with temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, evaporation, wind speed and sunshine (P<0.05, r2=0.7-0.9 and P<0.05, r2=0.5-0.8, respectively). Cases caused by L. tropica, significantly, had a single lesion compared to cases caused by L. major (P=0.0001), which, significantly, had multiple lesions (P=0.0001). This and previous studies showed that CL is present in all Palestinian districts. The surveillance of CL has increased public awareness and molecular biological methodology for leishmanial species identification is an essential addition to classical diagnosis. The overall results are discussed, correlated to climatic and environmental changes and large-scale human activities.


Fertility concerns among breast cancer patients in Mexico.
Young women represent a high proportion of the total number of breast cancer (BC) patients in Mexico; however, no previous studies addressing their attitudes regarding the risk of chemotherapy-induced infertility and its contributing factors are available. The aim of this study was to evaluate the concerns of young women with BC towards the risk of infertility in two referral centers in Mexico with access to public health services. A cross-sectional study including women with newly or previously detected BC aged 40 years or younger at diagnosis was conducted. Variables regarding concerns about fertility were collected from an adapted version of the Fertility Issues Survey. 134 consecutive eligible women responded to the in-person paper survey. 55% were partnered, 35.1% had no children, and 48% reported willingness to have children prior to BC diagnosis. Only 3% of patients considered to be able to afford extra expenses. At diagnosis, 44% of women expressed some level of concern about infertility risk. The only factor significantly associated with fertility concern was the desire of having children prior to diagnosis (OR 11.83, p = 0.006). Only 30.6% patients recalled having received information regarding infertility risk from their physicians. A minority of young women with breast cancer in Mexico is informed about the risk of BC treatment-induced infertility, despite substantial interest. Informing all patients about infertility risk and available options for fertility preservation should be an essential aspect of the supportive care of young women with BC, even in low-middle income countries such as Mexico.


Rhamnolipid biosurfactant complexation of rare earth elements.
Rare earth elements (REE) are vital for modern technologies and considered critical materials. This study investigated monorhamnolipid biosurfactant interactions with REE as the basis for REE recovery technology. Conditional stability constants (log β), measured using a resin-based ion exchange method, are reported for 16 REE and metals. These results were combined with existing data for 10 other metals to assess comparative strength and determinants of binding. The stability constants could be divided into three groups: weakly, moderately, and strongly bound. The REE were all in the strongly bound group (UO22+, Eu3+, Nd3+, Tb3+, Dy3+, La3+, Cu2+, Al3+, Pb2+, Y3+, Pr3+, and Lu3+) with log β ranging from 9.82 to 8.20. The elements Cd2+, In3+, Zn2+, Fe3+, Hg2+, and Ca2+ were moderately bound with log β=7.17-4.10. Finally, Sr2+, Co2+, Ni2+, UO22+, Ba2+, Mn2+, Mg2+, Rb+, and K+ were weakly bound with log β=3.95-0.96. Two log β values are reported for the uranyl ion due to two distinct binding regions. A mixed metals study and associated selectivity coefficients confirmed monorhamnolipids preferentially remove metals with large log β values over those with smaller values. Preferential complexation by monorhamnolipids may constitute a green pathway for recovery of REE from alternative, non-traditional sources.


[Splinting in the treatment of small intestinal obstruction caused by adhesions].
The article discusses the results of small intestine splinting in various modifications with the use of a standard and specially designed silicon catheter. In the period between 1985 and 1990 operations were performed on 28 patients whose ages ranged from 16 to 81 years; all of them were operated on in a state of acute obstruction of the small intestine by adhesions, no fatal outcomes occurred. Various combinations of interventions were accomplished in 5 cases. The splinting catheter had to be removed prematurely in 2 cases because of stoma suppuration; one patient was operated on again 12 months after splinting, a doubtful result was noted in another 3 cases. In the early period the splinting catheter ensures adequate decompression of the intestine and effective prevention of postoperative paresis. The method for fixation of the standard splinting catheter is chosen individually depending on the concrete intraoperative situation. A special catheter with an inflatable cuff can be used which allows splinting of the small intestine without opening its lumen.


Immunological cross-reaction between a naturally occurring galactan, agarose, and an LPS locus for immune lysis of Neisseria meningitidis by human sera.
An immunological cross-reaction between agarose, a naturally occurring galactan, and an antigenic determinant which is a locus for human bactericidal antibody within the LPS of group Y strains of N. meningitidis was investigated. Bactericidal antibody in the convalescent serum of a child from whom a group Y, type IX strain was isolated could be absorbed by highly purified agarose in bead form (Sepharose), but not by a dextran gel (Sephadex). It was inhibited by agarose as a linear polymer and by the strain's LPS, but not by a heterologous LPS from a group B, type II strain of N. meningitidis, nor by the homologous capsular polysaccharide. Both LPS contained galactose; neither was anti-complementary. Agarose antiserum, raised in a rabbit, was bactericidal for the group Y strain, but not for the group B strain. Bactericidal activity in the agarose antiserum could be inhibited by agarose. Immunization with agarose induced haemagglutinating antibody against the group Y strain's LPS which could be absorbed by the group Y, but not the group B strain, and could be reduced by absorption with Sepharose. Absorption with Sepharose also removed the lytic activity against group Y strains of serotypes II and IV from a normal human serum without group Y capsular polysaccharide antibody. We conclude that the cross-reaction resides in the fine structure of the galactose constituent of the group Y strains' LPS.


Tissue heat transfer in water: lessons from the Korean divers.
The factors which influence tissue heat transfer and temperature gradients from body core to skin surface are reviewed in the context of studies on Korean diving women. The resistance to heat transfer imposed by resting muscle is shown to be 2-3 times as great as that imposed by overlying fat and skin. However, exercising muscle imposes very little resistance to heat flux because of the increase in convective heat transfer. Accordingly, the limiting resistance to heat flow is shifted to subcutaneous fat and skin during exercise in cold water. Hypothetical examples are given of how important the subcutaneous fat can be in maintaining a high core-to-water temperature gradient in cold water and the same validated by examples from the literature. Last, hypothetical examples are given of the role cutaneous blood flow must play in controlling heat flux and temperature gradients across the subcutaneous fat layer.


Mediterranean diet and time-restricted eating as a cardiac rehabilitation approach for patients with coronary heart disease and pre-diabetes: the DIABEPIC-1 protocol of a feasibility trial.
Despite proven programmes, implementing lifestyle interventions for pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes is challenging. Cardiac rehabilitation, provide a valuable opportunity to promote the adoption of healthy lifestyle behaviours for patients with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, only a limited number of studies have explored the potential for reversing the underlying causes of ASCVD in this setting. The DIABEPIC1 study is an ongoing single-arm lifestyle clinical trial to assess the feasibility of an upgraded 6-month intensive cardiac rehabilitation programme combining an innovative diet assignment with exercise training to reverse newly onset pre-diabetes (glycated haemoglobin 5.7%-6.4%) to normal glucose concentrations in patients with coronary heart disease. 36 patients referred from the Montreal Heart Institute for cardiac rehabilitation, aged ≥40 years with a recent diagnosis of pre-diabetes in the last 6 months, will be offered to participate in the upgraded programme. Interventions will include four sessions of nutritional counselling on ultra-processed foods intake reduction and a moderate-carbohydrate (<40%) ad libitum Mediterranean diet coupled with 36 1-hour sessions of supervised exercise training (continuous and interval aerobic training, and resistance training) and educational intervention. Phase 2 will continue the same interventions adding 8:16 hour time-restricting eating (TRE) at least 5 days per week. During this second phase, exercise training will be performed with autonomy. The primary objectives will be to evaluate the recruitment rate, the completion rates at 3 and 6 months, and the compliance of participants. The secondary objectives will be to assess the proportion of prediabetic participants in remission of pre-diabetes at the programme's end and to characterise the factors associated with remission. The DIABEPIC1 feasibility study is approved by the Research Ethics Board of the Montreal Heart Institute (Project Number ICM 2022-3005). Written informed consent will be obtained from each participant prior to inclusion. Results will be available through research articles and conferences. The DIABEPIC1 trial will examine the feasibility and effectiveness of an enhanced cardiac rehabilitation programme combining exercise training with an ultra-processed food reduction intervention, a Mediterranean diet, and TRE counselling to remit pre-diabetes to normal glucose concentrations. NCT05459987.


Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging and meningioma surgery.
To determine if intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging improves surgical resection and postoperative outcome of intracranial meningioma. Prospective, non-randomized, cohort study. Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (iMRI) was used to evaluate patients with meningioma undergoing surgery. Images were obtained after induction of anaesthesia and at various stages of tumour resection. Extent of surgical resection was graded using Simpson grading system for meningioma. The images were reviewed together with histopathology and early outcome. Primary outcome measure was determined by finding unexpected tumur in interdissection images. Secondary outcome measures were determined by postoperative complications including infections and mortalities. There were 39 procedures in 38 patients from January 1998 to December 2002. Surgical-planning images helped to optimize craniotomy placement. Interdissection images revealed unexpected residual tumour in only 1 patient. Complete resection (Simpson grades 1-3) was achieved in 33 procedures. The average follow up period was 16.4 months. Tumour recurrence has been observed in three patients. Two of these patients had anaplastic meningioma. There was no mortality in the 30-day postoperative period. Intraoperative MRI was beneficial in siting the craniotomy in addition to providing anatomical relationships between the tumour and adjacent structures in lesions located at the skull base though the full benefit of these is yet to be determined. The low morbidity and zero mortality recorded in the study may be related to all these factors.


Update: Catheter-related bloodstream infection rates in relation to clinical practice and needleless device type.
Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CR-BSI), the third most common healthcare-associated infection (HAI) in the intensive care unit, is a significant issue for infection prevention and control professionals. CR-BSIs result in significant increases in morbidity, mortality, length of hospital stay and financial costs and therefore must be regarded as a failure in patient care. Among the factors affecting CR-BSI rates are the type of needleless access device, access device disinfection methods, compliance with infection prevention and control procedures, clinician training and ongoing education, the number of individuals accessing the device, and patient characteristics. Consistent implementation of institutional infection prevention and control protocols has demonstrated a reduction in CR-BSI incidence. Recent studies in the literature on needleless access devices indicate mechanical valve access devices appear to be associated with an increased BSI rate compared to split septum access devices; however, the reasons have not been completely elucidated. Reduction in CR-BSI rates depends on adherence to best practice in infection prevention; selection of appropriate needleless intravenous (IV) infusion systems; and routine BSI surveillance, with timely dissemination of data within the institution. This article discusses the links amongst CR-BSIs and adherence to aseptic techniques for catheter insertion, access device disinfection and maintenance, and differences in needleless access device technologies. A review of patient-related factors is beyond the scope of this article.


Cancer of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses: a series of 115 patients.
A total of 115 patients with sinonasal cancer was assessed during the period 1978-1995. Ninety-one patients received treatment with curative intent. A combination of irradiation and operation was used. The 5-year crude survival for patients, who were treated with curative intent, was 41%; the disease-specific survival throughout the period was 48%. Primary irradiation followed by maxillectomy was widely used in the first half of the period. Treatment in the last part was changed to primary lateral rhinotomy with post-operative irradiation whenever possible. Twelve maxillectomies were performed during the first half of the period, and during the last part, only two. Disease-specific survival was equal in the first and the second halves of the period.


A review of influenza haemagglutinin receptor binding as it relates to pandemic properties.
Haemagglutinin is a determinant of many viral properties, and successful adaptation to a human-like form is thought to be an important step toward pandemic influenza emergence. The availability of structurally distinct sialic acid linked receptors in the sites of human and avian influenza infection are generally held to account for the differences observed, but the relevance of other selection pressures has not been elucidated. There is evidence for genetic and structural constraints of haemagglutinin playing a role in restricting haemagglutinin adaptation, and also for differences in the selection pressure to alter binding, specifically when considering virus replication within host compared to transmission between hosts. Understanding which characteristics underlie such adaptations in humans is now possible in greater detail by using glycan arrays. However, results from these assays must also interpreted in context of an as yet still to be determined detailed knowledge of the structural diversity of sialic acids in the human respiratory tract. A clearer understanding of the evolutionary benefits conveyed by different haemagglutinin properties would have substantial impact and would affect the risk we allocate to viral propagation in different species, such as swine and poultry. Relevant to the H5N1 threat, current evidence also suggests that mortality associated with any emergent pandemic from current strains may be reduced if haemagglutinin specificity changes, further emphasising the importance of understanding how and if selection pressures in the human will cause such an alteration.


Myeloproliferative disorders.
The myeloproliferative disorders (MPDs) are a group of pre-leukaemic disorders characterized by proliferation of one or more lineages of the myelo-erythroid series. Unlike the Philadelphia chromosome in chronic myeloid leukaemia, there is no pathognomonic chromosomal abnormality associated with the MPDs. Chromosomal abnormalities are seen in 30-40% of patients with polycythaemia vera (PV) and idiopathic myelofibrosis (IMF) and seem to indicate a poor prognosis. On the other hand, chromosomal abnormalities are rare in essential thrombocythaemia. Consistent acquired changes seen at diagnosis include deletion of the long arm of chromosome 20, del(13q), trisomy 8 and 9 and duplication of parts of 1q. Furthermore del(20q), trisomy 8 and dupl(lq) all arise in multipotent progenitor cells. Molecular mapping of 20q deletions and, to some extent, 13q deletions has identified a number of candidate target genes, although no mutations have yet been found. Finally, translocations associated with the rare 8p11 myeloproliferative syndrome and other atypical myeloproliferative disorders have permitted the identification of a number of novel fusion proteins involving fibroblast growth factor receptor-1.


Enablers of and Barriers to Effective Diabetes Self-Care in Iran: A Qualitative Study.
Self-care behaviors are the most important factor in diabetes management, and improving such behaviors is the cornerstone in helping patients to manage their illness. The current study aimed to determine interfering factors in the self-care process in patients with diabetes. The present qualitative study with content-analysis design was performed from March 2017 to April 2019 in Mashhad, Iran. Data collection was started with sampling and continued until saturation. Data were collected through semistructured interviews. Participants comprised 21 patients with diabetes (adults with type 1 or 2 diabetes) aged 31-60 years. Data analysis was performed using the Landman method and MaxQDA 10 software. Qualitative content analysis showed that patients' self-care behavior was influenced by different factors and conditions. In the current study, four key themes facilitating or preventing self-care behaviors in patients with diabetes were extracted: accessibility, environmental factors, behavioral habits, and personal factors. A range of personal and environmental factors may play an important role in the formation of self-care behaviors in patients with diabetes, and providing medical, welfare, and social support to such patients can facilitate self-care behavior formation in them. On the other hand, by removing perceived barriers, patients may be better able to adhere to self-care behaviors.


Effect of hearing loss, age, and gender on the outcome of the cochlear hydrops analysis masking procedure.
The aims of the study are to investigate the effect of hearing loss, age, and gender on the outcome of the cochlear hydrops analysis masking procedure (CHAMP) and to assess the clinical utility of CHAMP for the diagnosis of Ménière's disease (MD). Prospective observational study. Otolaryngology department of a tertiary referral hospital. We recruited MD patients (MD, 12 subjects) and hearing loss patients (HL, 10 subjects). Control subjects (NC, 43 subjects) were matched for gender and age. CHAMP was performed in the patients and control subjects. The mean difference in latency between the wave V for the click alone response and wave V for the 0.5-kHz high-pass masking noise condition was compared among groups, and the effects of gender and age on the results were analyzed in the NC group. Both the MD group and the HL group had a smaller difference in latency compared to the NC group. The MD group and HL group showed no significant difference in latency. In the NC group, there were no significant differences in latency depending on gender and age. Hearing level seems to significantly affect the CHAMP results, making it unreliable to differentiate between MD patients and non-MD hearing loss patients. Therefore, the diagnostic value of CHAMP might be limited in MD.


Thermoresponsive Glycopolypeptide Containing Block Copolymers, Particle Formation, and Lectin Interaction.
Amphiphilic block copolymers with a thermoresponsive poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) block and a glycopeptide block are synthesized and particle formation as well as interaction of the glyco-corona with lectins is investigated. The synthetic route comprises the preparation of block copolymers by N-carboxyanhydride polymerization and subsequent deprotection to obtain pH- and thermoresponsive poly(l-glutamic acid)-b-poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (pGA-b-pNIPAM), which is then further modified with different amino sugars by a versatile coupling method with 4-(4,6-dimethoxy-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)-4-methylmorpholin-4-ium chloride (DMT-MM). The glycosylated pGA-b-pNIPAM block copolymers are investigated with regard to cloud point temperatures (Tcp ), particle size, and stability. The morphology of the particles is visualized using cryo-SEM. Zeta potential measurements are indicating that the saccharide moieties are located on the surface of the particles. This assumption is further substantiated by quantitative lectin interaction assays with nonaggregated and aggregated glycosylated pGA-b-pNIPAM. The interaction of the model lectin ConA with the block copolymers is independent of the degree of substitution in the nonaggregated state at room temperature. However, at 37 °C, when particles of pGA-b-pNIPAM are present, the interaction becomes stronger with increasing degree of substitution. This interaction with lectins can be used for targeting saccharide-modified particles in drug delivery.