Dynamics of an infectious keratoconjunctivitis outbreak by Mycoplasma conjunctivae on Pyrenean Chamois Rupicapra p. pyrenaica.
Between 2006 and 2008, an outbreak of Infectious Keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) affected Pyrenean chamois Rupicapra p. pyrenaica, an endemic subspecies of mountain ungulate that lives in the Pyrenees. The study focused on 14 mountain massifs (180,000 ha) where the species' population is stable. Cases of IKC were detected in ten of the massifs and, in five of them, mortality was substantial. The outbreak spread quickly from the first location detected, with two peaks in mortality that affected one (2007) and three (2008) massifs. In the latter, the peak was seasonal (spring to autumn) and, in the former, the outbreak persisted through winter. To identify the outbreak's aetiology, we examined 105 Pyrenean chamois clinically affected with IKC. TaqMan rt-PCR identified Mycoplasma conjunctivae in 93 (88.5%) of the chamois. Another rt-PCR detected Chlamydophila spp. in 14 of chamois, and 12 of those had mixed infections with mycoplasmas. In the period 2000-2007, the chamois population increased slightly (λ 1.026) but decreased significantly during the IKC outbreak (λ 0.8, 2007-2008; λ 0.85, 2008-2009) before increasing significantly after the outbreak (λ 1.1, 2009-2010). Sex-biased mortality shifted the adult sex ratio toward males (from 0.6 to 0.7 males per female) and reduced productivity slightly. Hunting was practically banned in the massifs where chamois experienced significant mortality and allowed again after the outbreak ended. Long-term monitoring of wild populations provides a basis for understanding the impacts of disease outbreaks and improves management decisions, particularly when species are subject to extractive exploitation.


Urinary sodium excretion in a young to middle-aged adult urban population: a pilot study in Ecuador.
High sodium consumption is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is the leading cause of mortality in Ecuador, which may be caused in part by unhealthy eating habits. Currently, there are no data on the consumption of sodium using 24-hr urine samples. The aims of the study were to provide preliminary data of sodium intake in an urban population sample consisting of adults between 25 and 64 years old, and to explore the feasibility to conduct a population-level sodium intake determination by using 24-hr urine samples. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 129 adults living in an urban setting. 24-hr urinary samples were collected and the WHO STEPS instrument was used to collect the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of participants. A reference value of 2.0 g/day was used to differentiate between normal and high sodium intake groups. Participants' median age was 39 years, 91% of them identified themselves as belonging to the mestizo race, and 60% were female. The average sodium intake was 2 655(±1 185) mg/d (range: 1 725 to 3 404), which is equivalent to a salt intake of 6.8 g/d (range: 4.4 to 8.7). Sodium intake was significantly higher in males than in females: 3 175(±1 202) mg/d vs. 2 304(±1 042) mg/d, respectively, (p<.01). Sodium consumption in two-thirds of the participants was higher than the WHO recommended level. These results should help to support the execution of a national sodium intake survey that, in turn, would provide information to guide and plan public health strategies seeking to decrease cardiovascular diseases occurrence rates in Ecuador.


Countercurrent chromatography for the purification of peptides.
In Table 3 are listed the types of peptides separated by CCC, including the instruments used and the solvent conditions. In the last 20 years, intriguing discoveries about the hydrodynamic behavior of liquids in open-coiled tubing have introduced many possibilities for chromatographic separations. A fruitful area of endeavor certainly lies in further elucidation of the mechanisms. However, it is evident that CCC has the capability to separate all types of substances: organic compounds, proteins, membrane proteins, subcellular particles, as well as peptides, the intermediate-sized molecules. The potential for applications also lies at various levels of the scale such as analytical, laboratory, and, very importantly, industrial processes.


[Evaluation of post-menopausal osteoporosis using ultrasound].
Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) has recently been proposed for evaluating bone mineral density. Several QUS units are now commercially available. They measure both the attenuation and velocity of the US beam, in a transmission mode, mainly at the calcaneum and phalanges. These parameters are mainly related to bone density, but may also, in theory, be affected by non-quantitative properties of bone such as elasticity and anisotropy. Values measured at QUS are lowered in osteoporotic patients compared to normal control subjects. The predictive value for hip fracture in an elderly population is similar for QUS measurements and conventional techniques of bone mineral density measurements. The reproducibility of measurements with QUS is good, but the variation to be measured is only minimal. Thus, QUS cannot yet be recommended for follow up of patients or evaluation of response to treatment. Technical advances are to be expected. Because this technique is non-invasive and simple, it represents a promising tool for the screening of patients at risk for osteoporosis.


Is amoxapine an atypical antipsychotic? Positron-emission tomography investigation of its dopamine2 and serotonin2 occupancy.
All currently available atypical antipsychotics have, at clinically relevant doses: i) high serotonin (5-HT)2 occupancy; ii) greater 5-HT2 than dopamine (D)2 occupancy; and iii) a higher incidence of extrapyramidal side effects when their D2 occupancy exceeds 80%. A review of pharmacologic and behavioral data suggested that amoxapine should also conform to this profile; therefore, we undertook a positron-emission tomography (PET) study of its 5-HT2 and D2 occupancy. Seven healthy volunteers received 50-250 mg/day of amoxapine for 5 days and then had [11C]-raclopride and [18F]-setoperone PET scans. 5-HT2 receptors showed near saturation at doses of 100 mg/day and above. The D2 receptor occupancies showed a dose-dependent increase, never exceeding 80%; at all doses 5-HT2 occupancy exceeded D2 occupancy. PET data show that amoxapine's profile is very similar to that of the established atypical antipsychotics. These data, together with amoxapine's in vitro pharmacologic profile, effectiveness in animal models, and efficacy in psychotic depression raise the possibility of amoxapine as an "atypical" antipsychotic agent in the treatment of schizophrenia.


[Radiologic diagnosis as a component of staging and surgical approach in carcinoma of the renal parenchyma].
Due to its long-term symptom-free course, carcinoma of renal parenchyma would be detected by chance in 50% of cases. Clinically, advanced tumor was diagnosed in 85%. The report deals with criteria of screening for surgical treatment used in 215 cases following preoperative examination.


Orthodontics as a risk factor for temporomandibular disorders (TMD). II.
Debate about orthodontic treatment as a risk factor for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) led to this study. This report, the second in a series, concerns findings from a longitudinal study in which 30 new orthodontic patients have been enrolled annually since 1983. The method of Helkimo was used to collect TMD data before initiation of orthodontic treatment, and at annual intervals after debanding. Treatment was by fixed edgewise appliances. Data from a pretreatment and at least one posttreatment Helkimo examination were available for 109 patients. Follow-up data were available for 92 patients in the first year after debanding, with the corresponding sample sizes declining to 56, 33, 19, 11, and 7 for the second through the sixth posttreatment years, respectively. Primary analyses involved comparison of mean scores from the Helkimo 25-point dysfunction index scale. There were no significant differences between mean pretreatment and posttreatment Helkimo scores for any of the various groupings except for small, clinically unimportant improvements seen in the 12 to 24 month subgroup of 55 patients and in the 48 to 60 month subgroup of 11 patients. With average follow-up time of about 2 years for the 109 patients, 90% had Helkimo scores that stayed the same or improved, and 10% had scores that increased or worsened from 2 to 5 Helkimo points. We conclude that the orthodontic treatment experienced by our sample was not an important etiologic factor for TMD.


U(IV) and U(V) azide complexes supported by amide or aryloxide ligands.
The uranium(IV) azides [Li(THF)(3)](2)[U(OAr)(4)(N(3))(2)], Ar = 2,6-Me(2)C(6)H(3), and {[Na(THF)(4)][U[N(SiMe(3))(2)](3)(N(3))(2)]}(x) have been synthesised and structurally characterised. Oxidation of these complexes affords [Li(THF)(3)][U(OAr)(5)(N(3))] and U[N(SiMe(3))(2)](3)(N(3))(2), which are the first azides of U(V).


Acute epiglottitis in adults: an under-recognized and life-threatening condition.
Epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition resulting from infection of the epiglottis and surrounding structures, causing classical signs and symptoms related to inflammation and progressive airway obstruction. We briefly present two recent adult cases of epiglottitis, followed by a review of the literature concerning the subject. In diagnosing epiglottitis, direct visualization by laryngoscopy is the gold standard. Lateral neck X-rays also have great utility, but with less sensitivity than direct visualization. Though historically more of a burden for the pediatric population, epiglottitis does occur in adults, often with a milder clinical course. And while aggressive treatment in the pediatric population has driven mortality from 7 percent to about 1 percent, mortality in the adult population remains at about 7 percent. Some debate exists over how aggressively to approach the adult with epiglottitis due to the more variable nature of presentation in the adult population. Though prophylactic airway management is not necessarily indicated in the adult with epiglottitis, careful attention to the airway in a controlled intensive care environment is recommended. The severity of the clinical picture should guide the physician in his or her approach. Any clinical suspicion of epiglottitis warrants an aggressive approach until epiglottitis is ruled out or the patient is recovering well.


Spectroscopic characterization of the electronic changes in the active site of Streptomyces antibioticus tyrosinase upon binding of transition state analogue inhibitors.
The dinuclear copper enzyme tyrosinase (Ty) from genetically engineered Streptomyces antibioticus has been investigated in its paramagnetic half-met form [Cu(I)-Cu(II)]. The cw EPR, pulsed EPR, and hyperfine sublevel correlation spectroscopy (HYSCORE) experiments on the half-met-Ty and on its complexes with three different types of competitive inhibitor are reported. The first type includes p-nitrophenol, a very poor substrate for the monooxygenase activity of Ty. The second type comprises hydroxyquinones, such as kojic acid and l-mimosine, and the third type of inhibitor is represented by toluic acid. The electronic and structural differences of the half-met-Ty form induced at the cupric site by the different inhibitors have been determined. Probes of structural effects are the hyperfine coupling constants of the non coordinating Ndelta histidyl nitrogens. By using the available crystal structures of hemocyanin as a template in combination with the spectroscopic results, a structural model for the active site of half-met-Ty is obtained and a model for the binding modes of both mono- and diphenols could be proposed.


Ethylene production by suspension-cultured pear fruit cells as related to their senescence.
Suspension-cultured pear fruit cells produce low levels of ethylene during growth and division in auxin containing medium. When deprived of auxin, division gradually ceases and ethylene production falls to barely discernible levels. However, notable ethylene production can now be induced by indoleacetic acid, CuCl(2), or 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid. If the auxin-deprived cells are transferred to ;aging' medium that lacks auxin but contains 0.4 molar mannitol, inducible ethylene production increases several-fold reaching levels of 40 to 60 nanoliters/10(6) cells per hour. Maximum inducible ethylene productivity is attained at varying times (1-6 days) after transfer to aging medium and appears to be temporally related to cell survival, i.e. the time of subsequent cell death. It is argued that auxin depletion initiates senescence which, in turn, leads to a transient increase in inducible ethylene production and eventual death. The limitations and potentials of the suspension-cultured pear cells as a system for the study of cellular senescence are discussed.


Creating pre-conditions for change in clinical practice: the influence of interactions between multiple contexts and human agency.
The purpose of this paper is to explore what happens when changes to clinical practice are proposed and introduced in healthcare organisations. The authors use the implementation of Treatment Escalation Plans to explore the dynamics shaping the translational journey of a complex intervention from research into the everyday context of real-world healthcare settings. A qualitative instrumental collective case study design was used. Data were gathered using qualitative interviews (n = 36) and observations (n = 46) in three English acute hospital trusts. Normalisation process theory provided the theoretical lens and informed data collection and analysis. While each organisation faced the same translational problem, there was variation between settings regarding adoption and implementation. Successful change was dependent on participants' ability to manage and shape contexts and the work this involved was reliant on individual capacity to create a new, receptive context for change. Managing contexts to facilitate the move from research into clinical practice was a complex interactive and iterative process. The paper advocates a move away from contextual factors influencing change and adoption, to contextual patterns and processes that accommodate different elements of whole systems and the work required to manage and shape them. The paper addresses important and timely issues of change in healthcare, particularly for new regulatory and service-oriented processes and practices. Insights and explanations of variations in implementation are revealed which could contribute to conceptual generalisation of context and implementation.


Management and outcome of the dislocated hip hemiarthroplasty.
This study describes and compares the operative management and outcomes in a consecutive case series of patients with dislocated hemiarthroplasties of the hip, and compares outcomes with those of patients not sustaining a dislocation. Of 3326 consecutive patients treated with hemiarthroplasty for fractured neck of femur, 46 (1.4%) sustained dislocations. Of the 46 dislocations, there were 37 female patients (80.4%) and nine male patients (19.6%) with a mean age of 83.8 years (66 to 100). Operative intervention for each, and subsequent dislocations, were recorded. The following outcome measures were recorded: dislocation; mortality up to one-year post-injury; additional surgery; residential status; mobility; and pain score at one year. Of 43 dislocations, 30 (70%) occurred within one month and 42 (98%) occurred within three months of hip fracture surgery. Seven (16%) of these patients were treated with a single closed reduction and sustained no further dislocations. Four (9%) were treated with open reduction and experienced no further dislocations. Three (7%) hips were left dislocated and the remaining 32 (74%) patients required additional surgery of further closed reduction, revision, or excision arthroplasty. The one-year mortality rates for patients treated with two or fewer reductions (open or closed), successful revision arthroplasty, and excision arthroplasty were 3/14 (21%), 1/7 (14%), and 8/14 (57%) respectively. The only statistically significant difference in mortality was the difference between patients who did not sustain a dislocation and those who did and were treated by excision arthroplasty (p = 0.03). Patients treated by excision arthroplasty had the greatest reduction in mobility scores and highest pain scores. The excision arthroplasty group also included the greatest proportion of patients not able to mobilize and the smallest proportion of patients remaining in their own home. Most dislocations of hemiarthroplasties of the hip occur within one month of surgery. Closed reduction is generally unsuccessful. For those patients with unsuccessful closed reduction, revision arthroplasty should be considered when possible, as this results in a better functional outcome with a lower mortality than excision arthroplasty.


Action spectra for nitrate and nitrite assimilation in blue-green algae.
Action spectra for the assimilation of nitrate and nitrite have been obtained for several blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) with different accessory pigment composition. The action spectra for both nitrate and nitrite utilization by nitrate-grown Anacystis nidulans L-1402-1 cells exhibited a clear peak at about 620 nanometers, corresponding to photosystem II (PSII) C-phycocyanin absorption, the contribution of chlorophyll a (Chl a) being barely detectable. The action spectrum for nitrate reduction by a nitrite reductase mutant of A. nidulans R2 was very similar. All these action spectra resemble the fluorescence excitation spectrum of cell suspensions of the microalgae monitored at 685 nanometers-the fluorescence band of Chl a in PSII. In contrast, the action spectrum for nitrite utilization by nitrogen-starved A. nidulans cells, which are depleted of C-phycocyanin, showed a maximum near 680 nanometers, attributable to Chl a absorption. The action spectrum for nitrite utilization by Calothrix sp. PCC 7601 cells, which contain both C-phycoerythrin and C-phycocyanin as PSII accessory pigments, presented a plateau in the region from 550 to 630 nanometers. In this case, there was also a clear parallelism between the action spectrum and the fluorescence excitation spectrum, which showed two overlapped peaks with maxima at 562 and 633 nanometers. The correlation observed between the action spectra for both nitrate and nitrite assimilation and the light-harvesting pigment content of the blue-green algae studied strongly suggests that phycobiliproteins perform a direct and active role in these photosynthetic processes.


The Gamma-Glutamyl-Transpeptidase to Platelet Ratio Does not Show Advantages than APRI and Fib-4 in Diagnosing Significant Fibrosis and Cirrhosis in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B: A Retrospective Cohort Study in China.
The gamma-glutamyl-transpeptidase to platelet ratio (GPR) is a new liver fibrosis model, which is reported to be more accurate than aspartate transaminase (AST) to platelet ratio index (APRI) and fibrosis index based on the four factors (Fib-4) for diagnosing significant fibrosis and cirrhosis in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in West Africa. The aim of this study is to assess the diagnostic accuracy of GPR for significant fibrosis and cirrhosis in Chinese CHB patients, and explore whether GPR deserves to be popularized in China. A total of 372 CHB patients who underwent liver biopsies and routine laboratory tests were retrospectively studied. The Scheuer scoring system was adopted as the pathological standard of liver fibrosis. Using liver histology as a gold standard, the diagnostic accuracies of GPR, APRI, and Fib-4 for significant fibrosis and cirrhosis are evaluated and compared by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the area under the ROC curves (AUROCs). Of these 372 patients, 176 (47.3%), 129 (34.7%), and 72 (19.4%) were classified as having significant fibrosis (≥ S2), severe fibrosis (≥ S3), and cirrhosis (S4), respectively. The AUROCs of GPR for significant fibrosis (0.72 vs. 0.78; P = 0.01), severe fibrosis (0.75 vs. 0.80; P = 0.04), and cirrhosis (0.78 vs. 0.83; P = 0.02) were lower than those of APRI. The AUROCs of GPR and Fib-4 for diagnosing significant fibrosis (0.72 vs. 0.70; P = 0.29), severe fibrosis (0.75 vs. 0.73; P = 0.33), and cirrhosis (0.78 vs. 0.75; P = 0.38) were comparable. GPR is a new serum diagnostic model for liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, but does not show advantages than APRI and Fib-4 in identifying significant fibrosis, severe fibrosis, and cirrhosis in CHB patients in China.


Levodopa-responsive Parkinsonism Caused by Recurrence of Large Basilar-tip Aneurysm after Stent-assisted Coil Embolization: A Case Report.
Aneurysms of the large basilar artery (BA) occasionally cause cranial nerve palsy and motor disorder through mass effect. Since 1967, five cases of cerebral aneurysm leading to parkinsonism have been reported. Herein, we describe a rare case of progressive parkinsonism caused by the recurrence of a large aneurysm of the basilar tip after stent-assisted coil embolization. A 66-year-old man visited our hospital with an asymptomatic large aneurysm (maximum diameter, 21 mm) of the BA tip. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed no perianeurysmal edema. Coil embolization with a Y-configuration stent with cross-placement was performed. Although thrombus formation occurred and the perforator infarction was complicated, complete occlusion was achieved. Three months later, the patient developed progressive and severe parkinsonism. MRI revealed mild enlargement of the aneurysm and perianeurysmal mesencephalic edema with minor neck recurrence. A trial administration of levodopa and additional stent-assisted coil embolization were performed. Levodopa dramatically improved parkinsonism; thus, the patient's symptoms were controlled by a continuous levodopa regimen. In a large BA-tip aneurysm patient, moderate regrowth and minor neck recurrence occurred after initial treatment, and chronic compression of the midbrain caused secondary parkinsonism. In such cases, it is important to consider levodopa administration and therapeutic strategies to prevent recurrence or regrowth.


Thermodynamics of micellization of benzyl(2-acylaminoethyl)dimethylammonium chloride surfactants in aqueous solutions: a conductivity and titration calorimetry study.
The enthalpies of micellization of the surfactant series benzyl(2-acylaminoethyl)dimethylammonium chlorides, RABzMe(2)Cl, have been determined by calorimetry and conductivity measurements in the temperature range 15-75 degrees C. Here R stands for an acyl group containing 10-16 carbon atoms and A, Bz, and Me stand for NH(CH(2))(2)N(+), benzyl, and methyl groups, respectively. The enthalpy of micellization, DeltaH(mic) degrees , and the critical micelle concentration, cmc, were calculated directly from calorimetric data. The free energy of micellization, DeltaG(mic) degrees , was obtained from the cmc and the conductance-based degree of counterion dissociation. There is an excellent agreement between DeltaG(mic) degrees calculated from the data of both techniques, but the DeltaH(mic) degrees , the entropy of micellization, values differ. The dependence of the thermodynamic parameters of micellization on the chain length of the hydrophobic group and on the temperature has been analyzed by considering the delicate balance between the factors that contribute to micelle formation, including transfer of the surfactant hydrocarbon chain from the aqueous environment to the micelle, with concomitant release of the solvating water molecules, and the effect of temperature on the structure of water. DeltaG(mic) degrees is more negative, that is, more favorable for RABzMe(2)Cl than for the structurally related alkylbenzyldimethylammonium chlorides. This is attributed to direct and water-mediated H bonding between the amide groups of molecules of the former series.


[A case of a second cancer of metachronous multiple primary non-small cell lung cancer successfully treated with TS-1 and CDDP chemotherapy].
The patient was a 66-year-old man who had undergone right upper lobectomy and ND 2a systematic lymph node dissection for lung cancer (M/D adenocarcinoma, p-stage IB) in March of 1999 . On November 2003, postoperative routine chest computed tomography(CT) demonstrated a mass in left S6, and pathological diagnosis revealed P/D squamous cell carcinoma (cT1N2M0, stage IIIA) by CT-guided needle biopsy and mediastinoscopy. At first, we tried two courses of a combination chemotherapy consisting of carboplatin (CBDCA) and paclitaxel every 3 weeks. After 2 courses, the regimen was stopped because of grade 3 arthritis. Then, two courses of CBDCA and gemcitabine were performed. The evaluation of the response was SD by the guidelines of Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumor Groups. Next, gefitinib was orally administered for 6 months but the tumor and mediastinal lymph nodes were growing. In January 2005, oral administration of TS-1 (60 mg/1, 2 courses, 75 mg/3-6 courses) was begun twice a day for 21 consecutive days while cisplatin (60 mg/m(2)) was administered intravenously on day 8. The response was PR (the tumor decreased by 46%), no serious adverse effect was observed, and the patient maintained good quality of life throughout the chemotherapy. This case suggests that TS-1+CDDP chemotherapy may be an effective treatment in patients with advanced lung cancer even after many protocols of chemotherapy.


Improving diabetes population management efficiency with an informatics solution.
Despite intensive resource use for diabetes management in the U.S., our care continues to fall short of evidence-based goals, partly due to system inefficiencies. Diabetes registries are increasingly being utilized as a critical tool for population level disease management by providing real-time data. Since the successful adoption of a diabetes registry depends on how well it integrates with disease management workflows, we optimized our current diabetes management workflow and designed our registry application around it.


Rhesus isoimmunization.
Rh isoimmunization is a potentially preventable condition that occasionally is associated with significant perinatal morbidity or mortality. Disease severity may be assessed using the modalities described above and frequently, invasive techniques are required to determine the risk of severe disease. Doppler flow studies appear to offer accurate, noninvasive means of evaluating fetal risk, which may allow for a decrease in invasive diagnostic procedures. The Rh isoimmunized patient, managed by an experienced team, can anticipate a favorable pregnancy outcome.


Sucrose Synthase Expression during Cold Acclimation in Wheat.
When wheat (Triticum aestivum) seedlings are exposed to a cold temperature (2-4 degrees C) above 0 degrees C, sucrose accumulates and sucrose synthase activity increases. The effect of a cold period on the level of sucrose synthase (SS) was investigated. Using antibodies against wheat germ SS, Western blots studies showed that the amount of the SS peptide increased during 14 days in the cold, when plants were moved from 23 degrees C to 4 degrees C. The level of SS diminished when plants were moved back to 23 degrees C. Northern blots of poly(A)(+) RNA, confirmed a five- to sixfold induction of SS in wheat leaves during cold acclimation. These results indicate that SS is involved in the plant response to a chilling stress.


Development and validation of a selective and robust LC-MS/MS method for high-throughput quantifying rizatriptan in small plasma samples: application to a clinical pharmacokinetic study.
An analytical method based on liquid chromatography with positive ion electrospray ionization (ESI) coupled to tandem mass spectrometry detection (LC-MS/MS) was developed for the determination of a potent 5-HT(1B/1D) receptor agonist, rizatriptan in human plasma using granisetron as the internal standard. The analyte and internal standard were isolated from 100 microL plasma samples by liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) and chromatographed on a Lichrospher C18 column (4.6mm x 50mm, 5 microm) with a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile-10mM aqueous ammonium acetate-acetic acid (50:50:0.5, v/v/v) pumped at 1.0 mL/min. The method had a chromatographic total run time of 2 min. A Varian 1200 L electrospray tandem mass spectrometer equipped with an electrospray ionization source was operated in selected reaction monitoring (SRM) mode with the precursor-to-product ion transitions m/z 270-->201 (rizatriptan) and 313.4-->138 (granisetron) used for quantitation. The assay was validated over the concentration range of 0.05-50 ng/mL and was found to have acceptable accuracy, precision, linearity, and selectivity. The mean extraction recovery from spiked plasma samples was above 98%. The intra-day accuracy of the assay was within 12% of nominal and intra-day precision was better than 13% C.V. Following a 10mg dose of the compound administered to human subjects, mean concentrations of rizatriptan ranged from 0.2 to 70.6 ng/mL in plasma samples collected up to 24h after dosing. Inter-day accuracy and precision results for quality control samples run over a 5-day period alongside clinical samples showed mean accuracies of within 12% of nominal and precision better than 9.5% C.V.


The C.A.Ve. software tool for genome assembly.
Misassembly due to the presence of repetitive DNA sequences often complicates the contig assembly stage of genome sequencing. Accurate physical representations of chromosomes, such as restriction maps or contig maps, provide a means for validating the sequence assembly and clarifying alignment ambiguity. The Contig Assembly Verifier (CAVe) software tool allows the researcher to automatically reconcile a sequence assembly with a physical representation, and, if needed, to modify the assembly using an intuitive graphical user interface.


Spring-loaded model revisited: paramyxovirus fusion requires engagement of a receptor binding protein beyond initial triggering of the fusion protein.
During paramyxovirus entry into a host cell, receptor engagement by a specialized binding protein triggers conformational changes in the adjacent fusion protein (F), leading to fusion between the viral and cell membranes. According to the existing paradigm of paramyxovirus membrane fusion, the initial activation of F by the receptor binding protein sets off a spring-loaded mechanism whereby the F protein progresses independently through the subsequent steps in the fusion process, ending in membrane merger. For human parainfluenza virus type 3 (HPIV3), the receptor binding protein (hemagglutinin-neuraminidase [HN]) has three functions: receptor binding, receptor cleaving, and activating F. We report that continuous receptor engagement by HN activates F to advance through the series of structural rearrangements required for fusion. In contrast to the prevailing model, the role of HN-receptor engagement in the fusion process is required beyond an initiating step, i.e., it is still required even after the insertion of the fusion peptide into the target cell membrane, enabling F to mediate membrane merger. We also report that for Nipah virus, whose receptor binding protein has no receptor-cleaving activity, the continuous stimulation of the F protein by a receptor-engaged binding protein is key for fusion. We suggest a general model for paramyxovirus fusion activation in which receptor engagement plays an active role in F activation, and the continued engagement of the receptor binding protein is essential to F protein function until the onset of membrane merger. This model has broad implications for the mechanism of paramyxovirus fusion and for strategies to prevent viral entry.


Genetic control of the antibody response. II. Further analysis of the specificity of determinant-specific control, and genetic analysis of the response to (H,G)-A--L in CBA and C57 mice.
CBA and C57 mice were tested for their ability to make an immune response to a related series of branched, multichain synthetic polypeptide antigens in which the antigenic determinants on the amino termini of the branched side chains were systematically varied. Neither strain responded to the polyglutamic acid determinant. Both strains responded well and equally to the poly(phenylalanine, glutamic acid) determinants. CBA mice responded poorly, and C57 mice responded well to two different antigens bearing poly(tyrosine, glutamic acid) determinants. CBA mice responded well, and CS7 mice responded poorly to two different antigens bearing poly(histidine, glutamic acid) determinants. The genetic control of the immune response to (H,G)-A--L appears to be dominant and polygenic, as it has been shown to be for (T,G)-A--L. The related antigens used in this study show extensive cross-reactions with antisera against other members of the related series.


The Effect of Body Composition on Cycling Power During an Incremental Test in Young Athletes.
Schomöller, A, Schugardt, M, Kotsch, P, and Mayer, F. The effect of body composition on cycling power during an incremental test in young athletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(11): 3225-3231, 2021-As body composition (BC) is a modifiable factor influencing sports performance, it is of interest for athletes and coaches to optimize BC to fulfill the specific physical demands of one sport discipline. The purpose of this study is to test the impact of body fat (BF) and fat-free mass (FFM) on aerobic performance in young athletes. Body composition parameters were evaluated among gender and age groups of young athletes undergoing their mandatory health examination. The maximal power (in Watts per kilogram body mass) of a stepwise incremental ergometer test was compared between 6 BC types: high BF, high FFM, high BF and high FFM, normal BC values, low BF, and low FFM. With increasing age (11-13 vs. 14-16 years) BF decreased and FFM increased in both genders. Both BC parameters, as well as body mass, correlated moderately with performance output (r = 0.36-0.6). Subjects with high BF or high FFM or both had significantly lower ergometer test results compared with those with low BF and FFM in all age and gender groups (p < 0.05). The finding that high levels of BF and FFM are detrimental for cycle power output is important to consider in disciplines that demand high levels of aerobic and anaerobic performance.


Handling Protest Responses in Contingent Valuation Surveys.
Protest responses, whereby respondents refuse to state the value they place on the health gain, are commonly encountered in contingent valuation (CV) studies, and they tend to be excluded from analyses. Such an approach will be biased if protesters differ from non-protesters on characteristics that predict their responses. The Heckman selection model has been commonly used to adjust for protesters, but its underlying assumptions may be implausible in this context. We present a multiple imputation (MI) approach to appropriately address protest responses in CV studies, and compare it with the Heckman selection model. This study exploits data from the multinational EuroVaQ study, which surveyed respondents' willingness-to-pay (WTP) for a Quality Adjusted Life Year (QALY). Here, our simulation study assesses the relative performance of MI and Heckman selection models across different realistic settings grounded in the EuroVaQ study, including scenarios with different proportions of missing data and non-response mechanisms. We then illustrate the methods in the EuroVaQ study for estimating mean WTP for a QALY gain. We find that MI provides lower bias and mean squared error compared with the Heckman approach across all considered scenarios. The simulations suggest that the Heckman approach can lead to considerable underestimation or overestimation of mean WTP due to violations in the normality assumption, even after log-transforming the WTP responses. The case study illustrates that protesters are associated with a lower mean WTP for a QALY gain compared with non-protesters, but that the results differ according to method for handling protesters. MI is an appropriate method for addressing protest responses in CV studies.


Corrosion Inhibition Using Harmal Leaf Extract as an Eco-Friendly Corrosion Inhibitor.
Extract of natural plants is one of the most important metallic corrosion inhibitors. They are readily available, nontoxic, environmentally friendly, biodegradable, highly efficient, and renewable. The present project focuses on the corrosion inhibition effects of Peganum Harmala leaf extract. The equivalent circuit with two time constants with film and charge transfer components gave the best fitting of impedance data. Extraction of active species by sonication proved to be an effective new method to extract the inhibitors. High percent inhibition efficacy IE% of 98% for 283.4 ppm solutions was attained using impedance spectroscopy EIS measurements. The values of charge transfer Rct increases while the double layer capacitance Cdl values decrease with increasing Harmal extract concentration. This indicates the formation of protective film. The polarization curves show that the Harmal extract acts as a cathodic-type inhibitor. It is found that the adsorption of Harmal molecules onto the steel surface followed Langmuir isotherm. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy FTIR was used to determine the electron-rich functional groups in Harmal extract, which contribute to corrosion inhibition effect. Scanning electron microscopy SEM measurement of a steel surface clearly proves the anticorrosion effect of Harmal leaves.


Non-intubated deep paralysis: a new anaesthesia strategy for vocal cord polypectomy.
Vocal cord polyp is common otorhinolaryngological disease, traditionally treated by vocal cord polypectomy under a supporting laryngoscope with general anaesthesia. Although it is safe and controllable, it would cause some anaesthesia complications. Moreover, the complex process of general anaesthesia may significantly reduce surgical efficiency. Avoiding these problems remains an important issue. All patients were subjected to the standard non-intubated deep paralysis (NIDP) protocol consisting of four phases. An emergency plan was launched when NIDP cannot be implemented successfully. Patient characteristics, blood gas and monitoring data were collected during NIDP. Data concerning satisfaction, complications and duration of anaesthesia and recovery were collected to assess its effectiveness. Among 20 enrolled patients, the success rate of NIDP was 95%. Only one patient failed in completing NIDP. Blood gas analysis revealed that the partial pressure of oxygen and carbon dioxide was maintained at safe levels. Monitoring during NIDP revealed fluctuations in mean arterial pressure between 110 and 70 mmHg, and the heart rate was stable at 60-100 beats per minute. The duration of anaesthesia and postoperative recovery were 13.0 ± 2.84 and 5.47 ± 1.97 min, respectively. All patients and surgeons were satisfied with NIDP, and no complications were detected before discharge. NIDP can be safely applied to patients and can replace general anaesthesia in vocal cord polypectomy. It can significantly reduce the duration of anaesthesia and postoperative recovery. No anaesthesia complications occurred without intubation, and patients and surgeons were satisfied with NIDP. This single-centre, prospective study was registered on clinicaltrial.gov (NCT04247412) on 30th July 2020.


Hemocompatibility of amyloid and/or brain targeted liposomes.
Targeted liposomes with different combinations of five ligands (for brain/amyloid targeting) were evaluated for hemocompatibility. Results reveal that all liposomes studied, caused minimum hemolysis; targeted liposomes slightly reduced blood coagulation time, but not significantly more than control liposomes; and compliment factors SC5b9 and iC3b increased when compared with the buffer, by most targeted liposomes. However, the specific amounts of both factors were similar with those induced by control liposomes. Thus, the targeted liposomes are unanticipated to cause hypersensitivity problems. Good correlations between vesicle size and produced factor amounts were observed. In conclusion, the current targeted liposomes are not expected to cause serious blood toxicity, if used in vivo.


Human recombinant superoxide dismutase protects primary cultured neurons against hypoxic injury.
Induction of free radicals and succeeding cascade reactions of lipid peroxidation are known to cause neuronal damage in cases of cerebral ischemia. We studied whether hypoxic stress in vitro induces the formation of these cytotoxic materials, and whether superoxide dismutase (SOD) protects cultured neurons from hypoxic stress. We used human recombinant SOD (rSOD), which is structurally homologous to native human SOD, the only exception being that the N terminus is not acetylated. First, we detected free radicals by means of nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) and assured that hypoxic stress to the cultured neurons induced the formation of peroxidation materials. Immediately after the hypoxic stress, the neurons showed no reduction from NBT to formazan. Striking NBT coloration of the somata, however, started to appear 30 min after reoxygenation, and the percentage of formazan-positive neurons increased during up to 32 h of the experimental period. About 50% of the neurons stained positively 24 h after hypoxia. This shows that rSOD is needed immediately after reoxygenation. Secondly, we examined whether rSOD exerts a cytoprotective activity against hypoxia. rSOD, with the application of proper treatment which incorporates rSOD into the target neuron, prevents the neuronal damage induced by oxide anions, which plays an important role in acute neuronal death accompanied by hypoxia. It can be concluded that, when intracellularly present in sufficient amounts, rSOD is useful for the treatment of hypoxic damage.


Multirobot Collaborative Pursuit Target Robot by Improved MADDPG.
Policy formulation is one of the main problems in multirobot systems, especially in multirobot pursuit-evasion scenarios, where both sparse rewards and random environment changes bring great difficulties to find better strategy. Existing multirobot decision-making methods mostly use environmental rewards to promote robots to complete the target task that cannot achieve good results. This paper proposes a multirobot pursuit method based on improved multiagent deep deterministic policy gradient (MADDPG), which solves the problem of sparse rewards in multirobot pursuit-evasion scenarios by combining the intrinsic reward and the external environment. The state similarity module based on the threshold constraint is as a part of the intrinsic reward signal output by the intrinsic curiosity module, which is used to balance overexploration and insufficient exploration, so that the agent can use the intrinsic reward more effectively to learn better strategies. The simulation experiment results show that the proposed method can improve the reward value of robots and the success rate of the pursuit task significantly. The intuitive change is obviously reflected in the real-time distance between the pursuer and the escapee, the pursuer using the improved algorithm for training can get closer to the escapee more quickly, and the average following distance also decreases.


Regenerative Role of Stem Cell-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Acute Kidney Injury.
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a frequent complication of hospital admission and worsens short- and long-term patients' prognosis. Currently, AKI treatment remains supportive and no therapy has proven significant benefit in clinical trials. Stem cells (SCs) are a promising therapeutic option, but their translation to the clinical setting is limited by the risk of rejection or aberrant differentiation. Numerous studies have shown how SC effects are mediated by paracrine factors such as extracellular vesicles (EVs). In this review, we describe the preclinical evidence about EV efficacy in acute tubular and glomerular injury and the recently generated clinical data.


[Superselective embolization of tumor nodes in solitary kidney in inoperable patients].
Evaluation of superselective embolisation of renal tumours in inoperable patients with solitary kidneys. Eight inoperable patients with solitary kidneys bearing tumour nodules underwent 1-3 superselective embolisation procedures with ethibloc (5x) or polyvinyl alcohol (1x). Renal function was monitored with creatinine levels. Tumour size was controlled every three months by means of sonography. Technical success rate was 100%. In 3/3 patients haematuria could be stopped. Post-embolisation renal function was unchanged in 6 patients and deteriorated in two patients; creatinine level rose to a maximum of 2.2 mg%. We observed no other side effects. Seven of eight patients died during a median follow-up period of 9.3 months (4-18 months); in two cases they died due to their underlying malignant disease. One patient had local tumour progress. Superselective embolisation of renal tumours in patients with solitary kidneys may be a helpful, well-tolerated therapeutic option in inoperable, symptomatic patients.


Characterization of transcription initiation sites on the soybean mitochondrial genome allows identification of a transcription-associated sequence motif.
Transcription initiation sites on the soybean mitochondrial genome have been characterized by sequence analysis of in vitro-capped soybean mtRNAs and corresponding mtDNA regions. The most abundant, discrete soybean mtRNA species labeled by guanylyltransferase and [alpha-32P]GTP are shown to correspond to the major transcript of the atp9 gene and to a group of small RNAs consisting of a discrete 80 nucleotide (nt) species plus heterogeneous species ranging in size from 133 to 148 nt. The 133-148 nt RNAs represent a set of transcripts with a common 5' terminus and ragged 3' ends, while the 80 nt RNA corresponds to positions 53-133 of the 133 nt species. The major, discrete in vitro-capped RNA species thus correspond to primary transcripts originating at three sites located in two regions of the soybean mitochondrial genome. The sequences extending from 13 nucleotides upstream to 8 nucleotides downstream of the initiation sites for the atp9 and 133-148 nt transcripts are identical at 18 of 21 positions. Sequences closely resembling this motif are located at some other 5' transcript termini of dicot plant mitochondria. Less closely related sequences are found at transcription initiation sites of wheat and maize mitochondria.


Treatment of affective disorders.
The diagnosis of affective disorders is difficult, especially at mild to moderate levels of severity. Often symptomatic treatment is given in the absence of a clear diagnosis. Antidepressants are often efficacious in helping anxiety symptoms but antianxiety compounds are generally inefficacious in treating depression. Alprazolam is a possible exception and may have both antianxiety and antidepressant properties.


Novel Drift Reduction Methods in Foot-Mounted PDR System.
The zero-velocity update (ZUPT)-aided extended Kalman filter (EKF) is commonly used in the traditional inertial navigation system (INS)-based foot-mounted pedestrian dead reckoning (PDR) system, which can effectively suppress the error growth of the inertial-based pedestrian navigation systems. However, in the realistic test, the system still often suffers from drift, which is commonly caused by two reasons: failed detection of the stationary phase in the dynamic pedestrian gait and heading drift, which is a poorly observable variable of the ZUPT method. In this paper, firstly, in order to improve the initial heading alignment accuracy, a novel method to calibrate the PDR system's initial absolute heading is proposed which is based on the geometric method. By using a calibration line rather than only using the heading of the starting point, the method can calibrate the initial heading of the PDR system more accurately. Secondly, for the problem of failed detection of the stationary phase in the dynamic pedestrian gait, a novel stationary phase detection method is proposed, which is based on foot motion periodicity rather than the threshold comparison principle in the traditional method. In an experiment, we found that the zero-speed state points always occur around the minimum value of the stationary detector in each gait cycle. By taking the minimum value in each gait cycle as the zero-speed state point, it can effectively reduce the failed detection of the zero-speed interval. At last, in order to reduce the heading drifts during walking over time, a new motion constraint method is exploited based on the range constraint principle. During pedestrian walking, the distance between the foot position estimates of the current moment and the previous stationary period is within the maximum stride length. Once the distance is greater than the maximum stride length, the constraint method is used to confine the current estimated foot position to the sphere of the maximum stride length relative to the previous stationary foot position. Finally, the effectiveness of all proposed methods is verified by the experiments.


PPARγ inhibits airway epithelial cell inflammatory response through a MUC1-dependent mechanism.
This study was conducted to examine the relationship between the peroxisome proliferator-associated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and MUC1 mucin, two anti-inflammatory molecules expressed in the airways. Treatment of A549 lung epithelial cells or primary mouse tracheal surface epithelial (MTSE) cells with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) increased the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in cell culture media compared with cells treated with vehicle alone. Overexpression of MUC1 in A549 cells decreased PMA-stimulated TNF-α levels, whereas deficiency of Muc1 expression in MTSE cells from Muc1 null mice increased PMA-induced TNF-α levels. Treatment of A549 or MTSE cells with the PPARγ agonist troglitazone (TGN) blocked the ability of PMA to stimulate TNF-α levels. However, the effect of TGN required the presence of MUC1/Muc1, since no differences in TNF-α levels were seen between PMA and PMA plus TGN in MUC1/Muc1-deficient cells. Similarly, whereas TGN decreased interleukin-8 (IL-8) levels in culture media of MUC1-expressing A549 cells treated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain K (PAK), no differences in IL-8 levels were seen between PAK and PAK plus TGN in MUC1-nonexpressing cells. EMSA confirmed the presence of a PPARγ-binding element in the MUC1 gene promoter. Finally, TGN treatment of A549 cells increased MUC1 promoter activity measured using a MUC1-luciferase reporter gene, augmented MUC1 mRNA levels by quantitative RT-PCR, and enhanced MUC1 protein expression by Western blot analysis. These combined data are consistent with the hypothesis that PPARγ stimulates MUC1/Muc1 expression, thereby blocking PMA/PAK-induced TNF-α/IL-8 production by airway epithelial cells.


Serological, bacteriological, and molecular diagnosis of brucellosis in domestic animals in Croatia.
To present the surveillance data on Brucella melitensis, B. suis, and B. ovis infection in cattle, sheep, goats, and swine in Croatia obtained in 2008 by serological, bacteriological, and molecular methods for diagnostics of brucellosis in domestic animals. We serologically tested 42,785 cattle serums, 22,686 sheep and goat serums, and 28520 swine serums using the Rose Bengal test, complement fixation test, and various immunosorbent assays. We also tested 10,173 ram blood samples for B. ovis infection using the complement fixation test. Bacteriological examination was conducted on 214 samples collected from 34 serologically positive animals. Different molecular methods were employed in the identification and typing of 20 isolates from the samples. B. melitensis biovar (bv.) 3 was confirmed with different identification methods in 2 flocks in 2 Croatian counties and B. suis bv. 2 in 3 flocks in 3 counties. B. melitensis in cows was confirmed for the first time in Croatia. Infection with B. ovis was serologically confirmed in 202 rams in 12 counties. In 2008, the size of the brucellosis-affected area in Croatia and the efficiency of detection and prevention of brucellosis in sheep, goats, and swine were satisfactory. Infection with B. melitensis in cattle was confirmed for the first time and possible links for infection in humans were detected. More efficient measures for suppression and control of ovine epididymitis are required and a new strategy may be necessary for complete eradication of this disease.


Graft copolymers of ethyl methacrylate on waxy maize starch derivatives as novel excipients for matrix tablets: drug release and fronts movement kinetics.
A previous paper deals with the physicochemical and technological characterization of novel graft copolymers of ethyl methacrylate (EMA) on waxy maize starch (MS) and hydroxypropylstarch (MHS). The results obtained suggested the potential application of these copolymers as excipients for compressed non-disintegrating matrix tablets. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to investigate the mechanism governing drug release from matrix systems prepared with the new copolymers and anhydrous theophylline or diltiazem HCl as model drugs with different solubility. The influence of the carbohydrate nature, drying procedure and initial pore network on drug release kinetics was also evaluated. Drug release experiments were performed from free tablets. Radial drug release and fronts movement kinetics were also analysed, and several mathematical models were employed to ascertain the drug release mechanisms. The drug release markedly depends on the drug solubility and the carbohydrate nature but is practically not affected by the drying process and the initial matrix porosity. A faster drug release is observed for matrices containing diltiazem HCl compared with those containing anhydrous theophylline, in accordance with the higher drug solubility and the higher friability of diltiazem matrices. In fact, although diffusion is the prevailing drug release mechanism for all matrices, the erosion mechanism seems to have some contribution in several formulations containing diltiazem. A reduction in the surface exposed to the dissolution medium (radial release studies) leads to a decrease in the drug release rate, but the release mechanism is not essentially modified. The nearly constant erosion front movement confirms the behaviour of these systems as inert matrices where the drugs are released mainly by diffusion through the porous structure.


Removable partial dentures.
On one side, prosthodontic reconstructions compensate for the sequelae of negative changes in the oral cavity; on the other side, they often enhance or accelerate them. As a consequence of negative changes in the oral cavity over time, treatment planning for RPDs becomes highly complex. A set of reliable criteria is necessary for decision-making and problem management It appears that the majority of published data on RPDs does not depict high effectiveness of this treatment modality. From a strict point of view of evidence-based dentistry, the level of evidence is low if not missing for RPDs. Randomized controlled trials on RPDs are difficult to design, they are not feasible for some questions due to the complexity of the material, or may remain without clinical relevance. The literature rarely gives information on the denture design, tooth selection, and management of the compromised structural integrity of teeth. So far treatment outcomes with RPDs must be considered under the aspect of bias due to the bias in indication and patient selection for RPDs. Better clinical models should be elaborated with more stringent concepts for providing RPDs. This encompasses: risk analysis and patient assessment, proper indications for maintenance or extraction of teeth, strategic placement of implants, biomechanical aspects, materials, and technology. Although there is a tendency to offer fixed prostheses to our patients, this might change again with demographic changes and with an increase in the ageing population, an increase in their reduced dentition, and low socioeconomic wealth in large parts of the world.


Autoimmune regulator and self-tolerance - molecular and clinical aspects.
The establishment of central tolerance in the thymus is critical for avoiding deleterious autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune regulator (AIRE), the causative gene in autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome type-1 (APS-1), is crucial for the establishment of self-tolerance in the thymus by promoting promiscuous expression of a wide array of tissue-restricted self-antigens. This step is critical for elimination of high-affinity self-reactive T cells from the immunological repertoire, and for the induction of a specific subset of Foxp3(+) T-regulatory (Treg ) cells. In this review, we discuss the most recent advances in our understanding of how AIRE operates on molecular and cellular levels, as well as of how its loss of function results in breakdown of self-tolerance mechanisms characterized by a broad and heterogeneous repertoire of autoimmune phenotypes.


[Fluorescence characteristics of dissolved organic matter during algal bloom in Jiaozhou Bay].
Fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectroscopy (EEMS) was employed to characterize the dissolved organic matter (DOM) in algal bloom seawater of Jiaozhou Bay in February, 2004. The relationships of DOM fluorescence characteristics with phytoplankton multiplication, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), salinity, dissolved oxygen and pH were discussed. In addition, the protein-like and humic-like fluorescence changes fore and aft cross-flow ultrafiltration (CFF) were primarily evaluated. The results show that the intensities of high and low-excitation protein-like fluorescence, which have the same sources, are stronger than that of humic-like during algal bloom. Both correlations between protein-like fluorescence intensities and chlorophyll-a and between humic-like fluorescence intensities and chlorophyll-a are relevant to the phytoplankton multiplication. As a whole, the fluorescence intensities of protein-like and humic-like increases with chlorophyll-a increasing. Furthermore the ratios of new to old DOM increase with phytoplankton biomass increasing. Good positive correlations between protein-like fluorescence intensities and DOC and between the ratios of protein-like to humic-like fluorescence intensities and DOC suggest that the DOC is mainly composed of newly produced matter during algal bloom. Some inorganic factors, such as salinity, dissolved oxygen and pH, have little effects on protein-like and humic-like fluorescence. Fore and aft the CFF experiments, the positions of protein-like and humic-like fluorescence peaks have little alteration, the balance of fluorescence intensity is not so good as organic carbon mass balance as a whole. Fluorescence balance should be used only as a supplementary technique for evaluating contaminations or loss by organic carbon mass balance.


Autoimmune hepatitis complicated with antiphospholipid syndrome in pregnancy.
There are few reports on the association between autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and antiphospholipid syndrome; only five reports were found on a MEDLINE search between 1966 and 2001. Therefore, the etiology and the optimal treatment of them are not clear. We encountered a case of AIH complicated by antiphospholipid syndrome in pregnancy. We present the clinical course and treatment of this case, and discuss some problems in managing such a patient. The patient received low-dose prednisolone and low-dose aspirin and delivered a live-born infant at term without any adverse effects. In this case, there was no relation between the variation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and the one of beta2-glycoprotein I (GPI)-dependent anticardiolipin antibody. It is supposed that there was no relation between the activity of AIH and the one of antiphospholipid syndrome, and it is also supposed that one is not secondary to the other.


Magnetic resonance spectroscopy in animal models of epilepsy.
The noninvasive localization of the epileptogenic zone continues to be a challenge in many patients that present as candidates for possible epilepsy surgery. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques provide accurate anatomical definition, but despite their high resolution, these techniques fail to visualize the pathological neocortical and hippocampal changes in a sizable number of patients with focal pathologies. Further, visualized lesions on MRI may not all produce seizures. One of the keys to the understanding of the epileptogenic zone lies in the recognition of the metabolic alterations that occur in the setting of epileptic seizures. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a valuable tool that can be used to study the metabolic changes seen in both acute and chronic animal models of epilepsy. Such study allows for the identification of epileptic tissue with high sensitivity and specificity. We present here a review of the use of MRS in animal models of epilepsy.


Hepatitis C virus genotype 1: how genetic variability of the core protein affects the response to pegylated-interferon and ribavirin therapy.
Hepatitis C virus subgenotypes 1a and 1b are found worldwide and cause 60% of all hepatitis C cases. It has been reported recently that viral genetic variations have a critical impact on the patient treatment outcome. In particular, polymorphisms of the HCV core protein have been linked to poor treatment response. However, most of these studies were conducted on Asian populations, Japanese in particular who are infected with HCV subgenotype 1b. Hence, we aimed in this study to examine the core protein polymorphisms in Saudi patients who are infected with chronic HCV genotype 1 (1a and 1b subtypes) and its association with treatment outcome. Direct sequencing of full-length core protein and data mining analyses were utilized. Results have shown that the response to treatment is dependent on subgenotypes. Indeed, HCV-1b showed different point mutations that are associated with treatment outcome where the point mutations at positions 70 (Arg(70) Gln) and 75 (Thr(75) Ala) in HCV-1b are significantly associated with PEG-IFN/RBV treatment response. In contrast, HCV-1a showed no significant association between core protein mutations and response to treatment. In addition, analyses of HCV-1a core protein sequences revealed a highly conserved region especially in the responder group. This study provides a new insight in the genetic variability of full-length core protein in HCV genotype 1 in Saudi infected patients.


Metalloproteinases in Endometrial Cancer-Are They Worth Measuring?
Endometrial cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignancies, yet the molecular mechanisms that lead to tumor development and progression are still not fully established. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a group of enzymes that play an important role in carcinogenesis. They are proteases involved in the degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) that surrounds the tumor and the affected tissue allows cell detachment from the primary tumor causing local invasion and metastasis formation. Recent investigations demonstrate significantly increased metalloproteinase and metalloproteinase inhibitor levels in patients with endometrial cancer compared to those with normal endometrium. In this review, we aim to show their clinical significance and possible use in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with endometrial cancer. We have critically summarized and reviewed the research on the role of MMPs in endometrial cancer.


Mutational analysis of upstream sequences required for transcriptional activation of the Klebsiella pneumoniae nifH promoter.
Upstream sequences of the Klebsiella pneumoniae nifH promoter were mutagenised and activation of the mutated promoters by the nif-specific transcriptional activator protein NifA examined in vivo. Of the sixteen mutations analysed, only those within the nifH upstream activator sequence (UAS), characterised by a TGT-N10-ACA motif, influenced nifH promoter activity. Mutations altering the two-fold rotational symmetry of the UAS or the spacing between the TGT and ACA motifs reduced promoter activity, consistent with the UAS functioning as a NifA binding site. The bases flanking the TGT-ACA motif of the UAS also appear to influence activation by NifA. Substituting the nifH UAS with a binding site for the transcriptional activator NtrC resulted in improved NtrC-dependent activation of the nifH promoter demonstrating that the activator specificity of the nifH promoter is dependent upon the presence of the appropriate upstream sequences to which the activator binds.


Proteomic Analysis Explores Interactions between Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces cerevisiae during Sourdough Fermentation.
Sourdough is a fermentation culture which is formed following metabolic activities of a multiple bacterial and fungal species on raw dough. However, little is known about the mechanism of interaction among different species involved in fermentation. In this study, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Sx3 and Saccharomyces cerevisiae Sq7 were selected. Protein changes in sourdough, fermented with single culture (either Sx3 or Sq7) and mixed culture (both Sx3 and Sq7), were evaluated by proteomics. The results show that carbohydrate metabolism in mixed-culture-based sourdough is the most important metabolic pathway. A greater abundance of L-lactate dehydrogenase and UDP-glucose 4-epimerase that contribute to the quality of sourdough were observed in mixed-culture-based sourdough than those produced by a single culture. Calreticulin, enolase, seryl-tRNA synthetase, ribosomal protein L23, ribosomal protein L16, and ribosomal protein L5 that are needed for the stability of proteins were increased in mixed-culture-based sourdough. The abundance of some compounds which play an important role in enhancing the nutritional characteristics and flavour of sourdough (citrate synthase, aldehyde dehydrogenase, pyruvate decarboxylase, pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 and acetyl-CoA) was decreased. In summary, this approach provided new insights into the interaction between L. plantarum and S. cerevisiae in sourdough, which may serve as a base for further research into the detailed mechanism.


Curcumin supplementation and delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS): effects, mechanisms, and practical considerations.
In this literature review we aimed to investigate the effects of curcumin supplementation on delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), which occurs after exercise, and evaluate related parameters to propose practical recommendations for the field of exercise physiology. Experimental studies conducted on curcumin supplementation and DOMS were systematically reviewed to determine (1) the effect of curcumin supplementation on DOMS, (2) potential mechanisms by which curcumin supplementation may attenuate DOMS, and (3) practical considerations for curcumin supplementation. While several studies have reported that curcumin supplementation attenuates DOMS after exercise, others have reported that curcumin supplementation has no effect on DOMS. Several mechanisms have been proposed by which curcumin supplementation may attenuate DOMS; the most probable of which is a reduction in inflammatory response. Other potential mechanisms include modulation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) or changes in post-exercise capillary lactate levels; these require further examination. The usual recommended dose of curcumin is 150-1500 mg daily (sometimes up to 5 g), divided into 2-3 portions and taken before and after exercise. It is not necessary to take curcumin together with piperine. Although conflicting results regarding the effects of curcumin supplementation on DOMS exist in literature, it may be considered as a method of nutritional intervention for reducing post-exercise DOMS.


Treatment with Delipid Extracorporeal Lipoprotein Filter from Plasma after Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Single-Center Experience.
The delipid extracorporeal lipoprotein filter from plasma (DELP) has been approved for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) by the China Food and Drug Administration, but its effectiveness and mechanism are not yet fully determined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of DELP treatment on AIS patients after intravenous thrombolysis. A retrospective study was performed on AIS patients with no improvement within 24 h after intravenous thrombolysis who were subsequently treated with or without DELP. Primary outcome was the proportion with a modified Rankin scale (mRS) of 0-1 at 90 days. Secondary outcomes were changes in National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score from 24 h to 14 days after thrombolysis, and the rate of improvement in stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP). The main safety outcomes were the rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and mortality. To investigate its mechanisms, serum biomarkers were measured before and after DELP. A total of 252 patients were recruited, 63 in the DELP group and 189 matched patients in the NO DELP group. Compared with the NO DELP group, the DELP group showed an increase in the proportion of mRS 0-1 at 90 days (p = 0.042). More decrease in NIHSS from 24 h to 14 days (p = 0.024), a higher rate of improvement in SAP (p = 0.022), and lower mortality (p = 0.040) were shown in DELP group. Furthermore, DELP decreased levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, E-selectin, malondialdehyde, matrix metalloprotein 9, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and fibrinogen, and increased superoxide dismutase (p< 0.05). DELP following intravenous thrombolysis should be safe, and is associated with neurological function improvement, possibly through multiple neuroprotective mechanisms. Prospective trials are needed.


De novo complex chromosome rearrangement: a study of two patients.
Complex chromosome rearrangements (CCR) involving multiple breaks in two or more chromosomes are rare. We describe a girl with development delay and overgrowth who presents a nine-break apparently balanced de novo rearrangement involving chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 12, and a boy with developmental delay and seizures with a complex three-chromosome apparently balanced de novo rearrangement involving chromosomes 2, 7 and 13. The relationship between clinical abnormalities and apparently balanced rearrangements is discussed.


The gastrointestinal stimulus to insulin release. I. Secretin.
The gastrointestinal stimulus to the release of insulin has been investigated in man by the use of a radioimmunoassay for secretin. Serum secretin levels rose rapidly after the oral ingestion of glucose or protein and preceded the elevation of serum insulin. An intravenous infusion of highly purified secretin caused a release of insulin when the serum secretin levels were within the physiological range. Infusion of hydrochloric acid into the duodenum caused an elevation of serum secretin and serum insulin levels in normal subjects. A similar response of secretin and insulin was seen after intravenous infusion of pentagastrin even when the acid stimulus to the duodenum was prevented. The latter observation suggests that pentagastrin (and probably gastrin) releases secretin by a direct humoral effect which is later fortified by the arrival of gastric acid in the duodenum. These studies suggest that secretin participates in the augmentation of insulin release after oral stimuli, and that a rapid sequence of humoral events takes place, gastrin releasing secretin and secretin releasing insulin. Subsequently secretin release would be augmented by a local stimulus in the duodenum and insulin release by the rising level of blood glucose or amino acids. This humoral system, which could also involve other gastrointestinal hormones, would provide a mechanism for facilitating the release of insulin to coincide with the onset of metabolite absorption.


Most surgeons' daily elective lists in Florida comprise only 1 or 2 elective cases, making percent utilization unreliable for planning individual surgeons' block time.
Operating room (OR) utilization has been shown in multiple studies to be an inappropriate metric for planning OR time for individual surgeons. Among surgeons with low daily caseloads, percentage utilization cannot be measured accurately because confidence limits are extremely wide. In Iowa, a largely rural state, most surgeons performed only 1 or 2 elective cases on their OR days. To assess generalizability, we analyzed Florida, a state with many high-population density areas. Observational cohort study. The 602 facilities in Florida that performed inpatient or outpatient elective surgery from January 2010 through December 2019. The providers licensed to perform surgery in Florida (physician, oral surgeons, dentists, and podiatrists) were identified by their national provider number. Hospitals were deidentified before analysis. The primary endpoint was the mean among facilities in percentages of surgeon-day combinations ("lists") containing 1 or 2 cases. Proportions were calculated using Freeman-Tukey transformation and the harmonic mean of the number of lists at each facility. Comparison to "most" (>50%) used Student's two-sided one-group t-test. Averaging among hospitals, most surgeons' lists included 1 or 2 cases (64.4%; 99% confidence interval [CI] 61.3%-67.4%) P < 0.00001). Many lists had 1 case (44.2%, 99% CI 41.2%-47.2%). Nearly all (96.7%) surgeons operated at just one hospital on their OR days. Most surgeons' lists of elective surgical cases comprised 1 or 2 cases in the largely urban state of Florida, as previously found in the largely rural state of Iowa. Results were insensitive to organizational size or county population. Thus, our finding is generalizable in the United States. Consequently, neither adjusted nor raw utilization should be used solely when allocating OR time to individual surgeons. Anesthesia and nursing coverage of cases can be based on maximizing the efficiency of use of OR time.


Bacterial infections in children with HIV/AIDS.
HIV/AIDS affects over 850,000 children in Africa. Bacterial infections are frequent in this group of children. Pneumonia, meningitis and septicaemia are especially common, recurrent and most often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Salmonella spp are the most frequently isolated causative agent of septicaemia in malarial areas. Soft tissue, eye and oral infections have a higher incidence in HIV-infected than uninfected children. In all instances the causative agents are not dissimilar from those that cause disease in HIV-uninfected children, but the mortality is greater. Increased bacterial resistance to first line antibiotics has been reported and the use of cotrimoxazole prophylaxis may further influence the resistance pattern of common bacteria.


Measurements of manganese with respect to calcium in histological enamel cross sections: toward a new manganese biomarker.
Airborne Mn may become an important route of exposure if the use of Mn-containing gasoline additives becomes more widespread. We report on the measurement of manganese and calcium in histological cross sections of shed deciduous tooth enamel of three human subjects. The goal of this research was to measure Mn in tooth enamel for use as a biomarker in assessing manganese exposure in cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. The histological locations can be time-specific (analogous to examining growth rings in trees). This technique, which may identify critical windows of exposure, can be important for evaluating potential vulnerability of the fetus and neonate to inhaled or ingested Mn.


What really matters: living longer or living healthier Comment on "Shanghai rising: health improvements as measured by avoidable mortality since 2000".
The decline in Avoidable Mortality (AM) and increase in life expectancy in Shanghai is impressive. Gusmano and colleagues suggested that Shanghai's improved health system has contributed significantly to this decline in AM. However, when compared to other global cities, Shanghai's life expectancy at birth is improving as London and New York City, but has yet to surpass that of Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Paris. Over the past decade, the reduction in AM of Shanghai is just in line with the international experience in reducing avoidable premature deaths. We suggest that a more elaborate research design is needed to examine the impact of the improvement in Shanghai's health system on its population health status.


Contaminant pattern and bioaccumulation of legacy and emerging organhalogen pollutants in the aquatic biota from an e-waste recycling region in South China.
Legacy pollutants, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichlorodiphenyl trichloroethane and its metabolites (DDTs), and some emerging organhalogen pollutants, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hexabromobenzene (HBB), pentabromotoluene (PBT), 2,3,4,5,6-pentabromoethyl benzene (PBEB), 1,2-bis (2,4,6-tribromophenoxy) ethane (BTBPE), and dechlorane plus (DP), were detected in an aquatic food chain (invertebrates and fish) from an e-waste recycling region in South China. Polychlorinated biphenyls, DDTs, PBDEs, and HBB were detected in more than 90% of the samples, with respective concentrations ranging from not detected (ND)-32,000 ng/g lipid weight, ND-850 ng/g lipid weight, 8 to 1,300 ng/g lipid weight, and 0.28 to 240 ng/g lipid weight. Pentabromotoluene, PBEB, BTBPE, and DP were also quantifiable in collected samples with a concentration range of ND-40 ng/g lipid weight. The elevated levels of PCBs and PBDEs in the organisms, compared with those in non-e-waste regions in South China, suggest that these two kinds of pollutants derived mainly from e-waste recycling practices. Hexabromobenzene was significantly correlated with PBDEs, implying that HBB come from the release of e-waste along with PBDEs and/or the pyrolysis of BDE209. Most of the compounds whose trophic magnification factor (TMF) could be calculated were found to biomagnify (TMF > 1). Hexabromobenzene was also found, for the first time, to biomagnify in the present food web, with a TMF of 2.1.


Bone grafting the scaphoid nonunion: a systematic review of 147 publications including 5,246 cases of scaphoid nonunion.
In order to elucidate the history of scaphoid nonunion and to evaluate whether or not the problem has been solved, we have reviewed the literature from 1928 to 2003 for union rates, postoperative immobilization periods and complications of the different scaphoid bone grafting procedures. The outcomes of 5 246 scaphoid nonunions were evaluated in three treatment groups. In the first group involving nonvascularized bone grafting without internal fixation, we found a union rate of 80% (95% CI: 78-82) after an average immobilization period of 15 weeks. In the second group involving nonvascularized bone grafting with internal fixation, the figures were 84% (CI: 82-85) and 7 weeks, respectively. In the last group involving vascularized bone grafting with or without internal fixation, the figures were 91% (CI: 87-94) and 10 weeks, respectively. We found no prospective randomized studies comparing different operative treatments of scaphoid nonunion. We conclude that there still is a need for improvement in the treatment of scaphoid nonunion.


N,N'-dimethylpyrazinediium bis(tetrafluoroborate) and N,N'-diethylpyrazinediium bis(tetrafluoroborate): new examples of anion-pi triads.
Crystallization of N,N'-dimethylpyrazinediium bis(tetrafluoroborate), C(6)H(10)N(2)(2+).2BF(4)(-), (I), and N,N'-diethylpyrazinediium bis(tetrafluoroborate), C(8)H(14)N(2)(2+).2BF(4)(-), (II), from dried acetonitrile under argon protection has permitted their single-crystal studies. In both crystal structures, the pyrazinediium dications are located about an inversion center (located at the ring center) and each pyrazinediium aromatic ring is pi-bonded to two centrosymmetrically related BF(4)(-) anions. Strong anion-pi interactions, as well as weak C-H...F hydrogen bonds, between BF(4)(-) and pyrazinediium ions are present in both salts.


Enhanced T lymphocyte expression of LFA-1, ICAM-1, and the TNF receptor family member OX40 in HgCl2-induced systemic autoimmunity.
Injection of mercuric chloride into Brown Norway (BN) rats induces a T lymphocyte-dependent autoimmune syndrome. In order to investigate whether modification of adhesion and costimulatory molecules on T lymphocytes may be involved in early T lymphocyte activation by HgCl2, the authors analysed expression of these molecules in peripheral lymph node cells from BN rats at day 4 after injection of HgCl2. Tri-colour flow cytometry was performed for expression analysis within CD45RC-defined subsets of CD4+ and CD8+ cells. Compared to control rats, HgCl2-exposed rats showed increased numbers of lymphocytes, especially of T lymphocyte blast cells. The levels of LFA-1 expression as well as the fractions of ICAM-1 + cells were significantly increased in all CD45RC-defined subsets of CD4+ and CD8+ cells. Within the CD4 + CD45RC10 T lymphocyte population, HgCl2-injected rats showed a highly significant increase in the number of cells expressing OX40, which is a member of the TNF receptor family. Moreover, only CD4 + CD45RC10 blast cells of HgCl2-exposed rats showed decreased expression of CD43, increased expression of CD49d and decreased numbers of CD26 + cells. The results indicate that induction of autoimmunity by HgCl2 in BN rats is associated with altered expression of T lymphocyte costimulatory molecules, predominantly on CD4+ CD45RC10 cells, which may be caused by a direct effect of HgCl2 on these cells, and may precipitate further activation of T and B lymphocytes by HgCl2.


Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) signaling pathways and protective roles of melatonin.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is characterized by the progressive loss of lung function due to tissue scarring. A variety of pro-inflammatory and pro-fibrogenic factors including interleukin‑17A, transforming growth factor β, Wnt/β‑catenin, vascular endothelial growth factor, platelet-derived growth factor, fibroblast growth factors, endotelin‑1, renin angiotensin system and impaired caveolin‑1 function are involved in the IPF pathogenesis. Current therapies for IPF have some limitations and this highlights the need for effective therapeutic agents to treat this fatal disease. Melatonin and its metabolites are broad-spectrum antioxidants that not only remove reactive oxygen and nitrogen species by radical scavenging but also up-regulate the expression and activity of endogenous antioxidants. Via these actions, melatonin and its metabolites modulate a variety of molecular pathways in different pathophysiological conditions. Herein, we review the signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of IPF and the potentially protective effects of melatonin on these pathways.


[Duplex sonography of the normal portal vein].
In 50 normal subjects flow velocity and direction on the portal vein was measured by ultrasonic duplex system. The measurements revealed at a mean diameter of 9.7 mm, a mean flow velocity of 15.2 +/- 2.6 cm/s, corresponding to a volume flow of 693 +/- 235 ml/min. Postprandially this increased to 880 +/- 269 ml/min. Inter-observer and day to day measurements demonstrated good reproducibility. Thus, this simple non-invasive method is well suited for quantitative assessment of the portal vein system in portal hypertension, thrombosis or after shunt operations.


Peer victimization in youth with Tourette syndrome and other chronic tic disorders.
Chronic tic disorders including Tourette syndrome have negative impact across multiple functional domains. We explored associations between peer victimization status and tic subtypes, premonitory urges, internalizing symptoms, explosive outbursts, and quality of life among youth with chronic tic disorders, as part of the internet-based omnibus Tourette Syndrome Impact Survey. A mixed methods design combined child self-report and parental proxy-report (i.e., parent reporting on the child) demographic and quantitative data for affected youth ages 10-17 years addressing gender, mean age, ethnicity and other socioeconomic features, and presence of tic disorders and co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Peer "Victim" versus "Non-victim" status was determined using a subset of four questions about being bullied. "Victim" status was identified for those youth who endorsed the frequency of the occurrence of being bullied in one or more of the four questions as "most of the time" or "all of the time". Data from 211 eligible youth respondents and their parents/guardians showed 26% reporting peer victimization. Victim status was associated with greater tic frequency, complexity and severity; explosive outbursts; internalizing symptoms; and lower quality of life. Peer victimization among youth with chronic tic disorders is common and appears associated with tic morbidity, anxiety, depression, explosive outbursts, and poorer psychosocial functioning. Anticipatory guidance, specific bullying screening and prevention, and further studies are indicated in this population.


Phylogeny and ultrastructure of Miliammina fusca: evidence for secondary loss of calcification in a Miliolid Foraminifer.
The classification of the Foraminifera, a widely distributed group of largely marine protists, has traditionally been based on morphological characters. The most important of these are the composition and structure of the shell or "test." Here, we use both phylogenetic analysis of the genes for small subunit rRNA and beta-tubulin and ultrastructural analysis to document a reversion in wall type from more derived calcareous tests to an agglutinated test. These data indicate that the genus Miliammina, and possibly other members of the Rzehakinidae, should be placed in the Order Miliolida as opposed to their current assignment in Order Textulariida. We also address the effects this reversion may have had on the ability of rzehakinacids to effectively colonize marginal marine environments. Finally, the hypothesis that some multilocular agglutinated foraminiferans descended from calcareous lineages has implications for interpretation of the foraminiferal fossil record.


Nitric oxide induces apoptotic death of cardiomyocytes via a cyclic-GMP-dependent pathway.
Recently, we have reported that excess amounts of nitric oxide (NO) produced by inducible NO synthase are involved in the development of myocardial damage in rats with induced myocarditis. However, there remain many problems to be solved concerning its mechanism of action. In this study, we examined whether NO induces apoptotic cell death in cardiomyocytes. Cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes were exposed to S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP) and (+/-)-E-ethyl-2-[(E)-hydroxyimino]-5-nitro-3-hexeneamine (NOR 3), as NO donors, or 8-bromo-cyclic GMP (cGMP), an analog of cGMP which functions as a second messenger in cells stimulated by NO. DNA fragmentation was confirmed by electron microscopy, by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method, and by agarose gel electrophoresis. Exogenously supplied SNAP or NOR 3 induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Cardiomyocytes exposed to SNAP displayed typical features of apoptosis as demonstrated by electron microscopy. Treatment of the cells with 8-bromo-cGMP also induced apoptosis. In cardiomyocytes, SNAP-induced apoptosis was completely blocked by a PKG inhibitor (KT5823) and by a soluble guanylate cyclase inhibitor (ODQ) and was suppressed by hemoglobin and was completely blocked by ZVAD-FMK, a caspase inhibitor. These results show that NO-mediated apoptosis of cardiomyocytes is cGMP dependent and that caspases are involved in this process.


Binuclear organometallic ruthenium complexes of a Schiff base expanded porphyrin.
The synthesis of binuclear organometallic ruthenium complexes of an expanded porphyrin-type macrocycle is reported; pyrrolic hydrogen bonding donors were found to interact with ancillary ligands in the primary coordination sphere and to stabilize coordinated dioxygen in an eta(2)-fashion.


Bilateral cloudy cornea: is the usual suspect congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy or stromal dystrophy?
We provide the diagnosis, treatment and follow-up period of a patient with cloudy cornea in both eyes from birth. A 4-year-old girl presented with blurring in both eyes. Penetrating keratoplasty (PK) was performed with the preliminary diagnosis of congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy in June 2012. According to the pathology report for extracted host tissue, the Descemet's membrane (DM) and endothelium were healthy and diagnosis was reported to be congenital hereditary stromal dystrophy. Deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty was performed on the left eye. The DM was transparent at follow-up. Cornea transplantation is the only choice to provide visual rehabilitation in children with congenital cloudy cornea. However, it is known that the prognosis of traditional PK in the paediatric age group is not good. Therefore, when using alternative keratoplasty (deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty, Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty) options, pathological examination of the host tissue should be made.


Tactile rod bisection in the absence of visuo-spatial processing in children, mid-age and older adults.
The effect of age on tactile rod bisection is explored in an attempt to fully understand lateralized biases that are not driven by prior experience or visual processing. In Experiment 1, a total of 549 healthy participants aged between 3 and 84 years of age, divided into eight age groups, used touch alone without vision to bisect one wooden rod. Participants across all age groups, except those approaching or in adolescence, showed pseudoneglect on tactile rod bisection. In Experiment 2 a total of 72 healthy participants aged between 6 and 96 years old, divided into three age groups, used touch alone without vision to bisect three wooden rods of different length. Experiment 2 showed pseudoneglect across the full adult life span and most notably in the oldest participants. For the youngest participants there was not a significant pseudoneglect bias but there was a significant effect of gender with females showing greater leftward bias than males. When participants scanned and bisected the rods starting from the right-hand side, pseudoneglect was significantly enhanced; again this bias interacted with age. The results suggest that the right hemisphere exerts an early capacity to orient attention contralaterally and that this capacity continues in middle and older adulthood which is inconsistent with current models of cognitive ageing. The findings are discussed in terms of how the right hemisphere preferentially orients attention leftward in the absence of direct visuo-spatial processing across lifespan and how this may be modulated by variables like gender and starting position.


Extranodal lymphoma: a comparative study.
The incidence of extranodal non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is increasing worldwide. The epidemiology of NHL in the Middle East is largely unknown. We evaluated all cases of NHL diagnosed at our institutions between 1998 and 2003 according to the site of presentation and their classification into primary nodal and primary extranodal NHL using strict criteria. Extranodal cases and early stage primary nodal cases were compared in terms of clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes. There were 422 NHL cases diagnosed between January 1998 and December 2003, among which 97 cases (23%) were primary nodal, 132 (31%) were early nodal, and 193 (46%) were disseminated primary nodal. In general, there was a male preponderance of primary nodal cases (63% versus 44%; p=0.007). There was a higher prevalence of primary nodal cases in Arabs than in Asians: Kuwaiti Arabs, 50%; other Arabs, 46%; and Asians, 11%. There was a different distribution of histologic subtypes between primary nodal and extranodal NHL (p=0.001). The most common histologic subtype among extranodal cases was diffuse large B cell lymphoma, which accounted for 71% (69) of cases. The most common anatomic site involved was the gastrointestinal tract, which accounted for 45% of all cases. The difference in event-free survival between nodal and extranodal low-grade NHL was not statistically significant (p=0.17). Primary nodal high-grade lymphomas show an overall survival than the primary extranodal disease (p=0.003). We conclude that extranodal NHL is common among patients of Arabic descent. Diffuse large B cell lymphoma is the most common histologic subtype and often involves the gastrointestinal tract. Patients with aggressive primary extranodal NHL have lower overall survival than patients with early primary nodal disease.


[Long term results in treatment of residual hip dysplasia by Salter osteotomy (study of 31 cases)].
Thirty-five hips (31 children, operated between 1971 and 1982) were reviewed after skeletal maturity with a mean follow-up of 12 years. The 31 children had been treated initially by closed reduction of the hip using the Somerville-Petit method (mean age: 18 months), and subsequently by innominate osteotomy (mean age: 4 years) to correct a residual dysplasia which was graded upon the VCE angle, and Severin and McFarland's classifications. There were 88% good results; however only 51% of hips were classified Severin Ia and McFarland 1. In this study, the authors tried to assess the long term efficacy of the innominate osteotomy and to determine the optimal time to perform it. They discuss the limits of indications for innominate osteotomy, which could be excessive if spontaneous improvement may be expected to occur. Age and radiological findings are good indicators.


[Estimation of the blood donation necessary for self-sufficiency of blood products].
To estimate the rates of donations needed to achieve self-sufficiency in haemoderivatives, thought to be at least 50 donations per one-thousand inhabitants. A method is presented to calculate the donation rate according to the variables that could affect self-sufficiency, namely, the number of blood components prepared and deferred; the mean volume of plasma units; the amount of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and plasma derivatives used (albumin, factor VIII and intravenous immunoglobulins); the rates of appropriate usage of FFP, red-blood cells (RBC), platelets and plasma derivatives; the use of recombinant factor VIII; the rates of albumin, factor VIII and intravenous immunoglobulin yielded by each litre of plasma; the rate of autologous transfusion; the rate of outdated haemoderivatives, and the litres of plasma obtained from plasmapheresis per donor and year. The achievement of self-sufficiency without a plasmapheresis programme would imply a donation rate of 59 to 143 per one-thousand inhabitants, with simultaneous outdating or RBC from 79% to 49%, respectively. With such a programme the blood donations needs would be 32 to 26 per one-thousand inhabitants, those of plasmapheresis would be 29.9 to 9.1 per one-thousand inhabitants, and the outdated RBC would range from 7.6 to 0%. Because of the great variations in the rates of donation needs in order to achieve self-sufficiency, every Community Blood Centre would have to establish a programme to calculate and monitor all the factors related with blood supplies in its territory.


Assembly of the surfactant protein SP-A. Deletions in the globular domain interfere with the correct folding of the molecule.
The C-terminal non-collagenous domain of the surfactant glycoprotein SP-A was shown to be essential for its correct folding and assembly, as judged by the secretion of various deletion mutants transiently expressed in COS cells. A deletion mutant coding for this domain was successfully secreted while the expression of the collagenous domain only did not lead to any detectable secretion. Deletion mutants lacking small parts of the non-collagenous domain interfered more or less with the correct folding and assembly of the molecule, thus either reducing or inhibiting the secretion. These data suggest that three prefolded non-collagenous domains register and act as a nucleation center for the folding of the collagenous triple helix which proceeds in a zipper-like fashion towards the N-terminus.


The in vitro sensitivities to radiation and misonidazole of mouse bone marrow cells derived from different microenvironments.
Previous studies had indicated that haematopoietic cells (CFU-GM) which reside within compact bone are resistant to ionizing radiation and sensitive to the cytotoxic action of misonidazole (MISO) relative to cells which reside within the core of mouse femurs. It was postulated that the microenvironment within compact bone might be relatively hypoxic. CFU-GM from femur cores (Fraction 1) and from compact bone (Fraction 3) have been exposed to ionizing radiation and to the hypoxic cell radiosensitizer, MISO, under controlled conditions of oxygenation in vitro. The inherent radiosensitivity of aerated Fraction 1 CFU-GM is similar to their in vivo radiosensitivity. An oxygen enhancement ratio of 2.2 is observed for these cells in vitro. On the other hand, the in vitro radiosensitivity of hypoxic Fraction 3 CFU-GM was similar to their in vivo radiosensitivity. The oxygen enhancement ratio for Fraction 3 cells was 1.5, significantly lower than that observed for Fraction 1 cells. When CFU-GM cells were exposed to MISO under hypoxic conditions in vitro it was found that Fraction 3 CFU-GM were more sensitive to its cytotoxic action than were cells from Fraction 1. These data are consistent with the interpretation that some CFU-GM reside in an environment of relative hypoxia within the compact bone of the mouse femur.