Prevalence and time trends in overweight and obesity among urban women: an analysis of demographic and health surveys data from 24 African countries, 1991-2014.
To examine the prevalence and trends in overweight and obesity among non-pregnant urban women in Africa over the past two and a half decades. Cross-sectional surveys conducted between 1991 and 2014. Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), repeated cross-sectional data collected in 24 African countries. Adult non-pregnant women aged 15-49 years. The earlier DHS collected anthropometric data on only those women who had children aged 0-5 years. The main analyses were limited to this subgroup. The participants were classified as overweight (25.0-29.9 kg/m2) and obese (≥30.0 kg/m2). The prevalence of overweight and obesity among women increased in all the 24 countries. Trends were statistically significant in 17 of the 24 countries in the case of obesity and 13 of the 24 for overweight. In Ghana, overweight almost doubled (p=0.001) while obesity tripled (p=0.001) between 1993 and 2014. Egypt has the highest levels of overweight and obesity at 44% (95% CI 42%, 46.5%) and 39% (95% CI 36.6%, 41.8%), respectively, in 2014 and the trend showed significant increase (p=0.005) from 1995 levels. Also, obesity doubled in Kenya, Benin, Niger, Rwanda, Ivory Coast and Uganda, while tripled in Zambia, Burkina Faso, Mali, Malawi and Tanzania. Ethiopia and Madagascar had the lowest prevalence of both obesity and overweight, with overweight ranging from 7% to 12% and obesity from 1% to 4%. Overweight and obesity are increasing among women of reproductive age in urban Africa, with obesity among this age group having more than doubled or tripled in 12 of the 24 countries. There is an urgent need for deliberate policies and interventions to encourage active lifestyles and healthy eating behaviour to curb this trend in urban Africa.


Further new staurosporine derivatives from the ascidian Eudistoma toealensis and its predatory flatworm Pseudoceros sp.
Three new indolocarbazole alkaloids, 3-hydroxy-4'-N-methylstaurosporine (3), 3-hydroxy-4'-N-demethylstaurosporine (4), and 3'-demethoxy-3'-hydroxy-4'-N-demethylstaurosporine (5), were isolated from the marine ascidian Eudistoma toealensis and its predatory flatworm Pseudoceros sp. in addition to two known staurosporines. The structures were determined by 1D and 2D homonuclear and 1H-detected heteronuclear NMR spectroscopy and from comparisons with published data. CD measurements for these five staurosporine derivatives, as well as the previously described seven staurosporines, are reported, confirming that all derivatives possess the 2'S,3'R,4'R,6'R configuration.


Dual Properties of Polyvinyl Alcohol-Based Magnetorheological Plastomer with Different Ratio of DMSO/Water.
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based magnetorheological plastomer (MRP) possesses excellent magnetically dependent mechanical properties such as the magnetorheological effect (MR effect) when exposed to an external magnetic field. PVA-based MRP also shows a shear stiffening (ST) effect, which is very beneficial in fabricating pressure sensor. Thus, it can automatically respond to external stimuli such as shear force without the magnetic field. The dual properties of PVA-based MRP mainly on the ST and MR effect are rarely reported. Therefore, this work empirically investigates the dual properties of this smart material under the influence of different solvent compositions (20:80, 40:60, 60:40, and 80:20) by varying the ratios of binary solvent mixture (dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to water). Upon applying a shear stress with excitation frequencies from 0.01 to 10 Hz, the storage modulus (G') for PVA-based MRP with DMSO to water ratio of 20:40 increases from 6.62 × 10-5 to 0.035 MPa. This result demonstrates an excellent ST effect with the relative shear stiffening effect (RSTE) up to 52,827%. In addition, both the ST and MR effect show a downward trend with increasing DMSO content to water. Notably, the physical state of hydrogel MRP could be changed with different solvent ratios either in the liquid-like or solid-like state. On the other hand, a transient stepwise experiment showed that the solvent's composition had a positive effect on the arrangement of CIPs within the matrix as a function of the external magnetic field. Therefore, the solvent ratio (DMSO/water) can influence both ST and MR effects of hydrogel MRP, which need to be emphasized in the fabrication of hydrogel MRP for appropriate applications primarily with soft sensors and actuators for dynamic motion control.


The influence of the cation structure on the basicity-related polarity of ionic liquids.
UV/Vis absorption data of (E)-4-(2-[5-{4,4,5,5-tetramethyl-1,3,2-dioxaborolane-2-yl}thiene-2-yl]vinyl)-2-(dicyano-methylene)-3-cyano-5,5-dimethyl-2,5-dihydrofuran (ThTCF) as a solvatochromic probe is applied to examine the anion coordination strength (e.g. of N(CN)2, BF4, PF6, N(Tf)2, CF3COO) as a function of the cation structure of ionic liquids. Several 1-n-alky-3-methylimidazolium- and tetraalkylammonium CH3-NR3+-based ILs with different n-alkyl chain lengths (R = -C4H9, -C6H11, -C8H17, -C10H21) are considered. UV/Vis absorption data of ThTCF show subtle correlations with hydrogen bond accepting (HBA) ability-related measurands such as Kamlet-Taft β, Freire's EHB, and Laurence β1 parameter as a function of anion and cation structure. The different influence of the n-alkyl chain length of imidazolium- and tetraalkylammonium-based ILs on the dipolarity and HBA strength is confirmed by comparison with the 14N isotropic hyperfine coupling constants (Aiso) of a positively (CATI) and negatively charged spin probe (TSKCr) of TEMPO-type [(2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidin-1-yl)oxyl] and quantum chemically derived dipoles of the cations. The Aiso values correlate with the absorption energy of ThTCF and EHB, but in different ways depending on the anion or charge of the spin probe. In a final discussion of the β, EHB, and β1 scales in relation to ThTCF, the importance of the molar concentration N of ionic liquids for the physical significance of the respective parameters is discussed.


Bio-inspired compact swarms of unmanned aerial vehicles without communication and external localization.
This article presents a unique framework for deploying decentralized and infrastructure-independent swarms of homogeneous aerial vehicles in the real world without explicit communication. This is a requirement in swarm research, which anticipates that global knowledge and communication will not scale well with the number of robots. The system architecture proposed in this article employs the UVDAR technique to directly perceive the local neighborhood for direct mutual localization of swarm members. The technique allows for decentralization and high scalability of swarm systems, such as can be observed in fish schools, bird flocks, or cattle herds. The bio-inspired swarming model that has been developed is suited for real-world deployment of large particle groups in outdoor and indoor environments with obstacles. The collective behavior of the model emerges from a set of local rules based on direct observation of the neighborhood using onboard sensors only. The model is scalable, requires only local perception of agents and the environment, and requires no communication among the agents. Apart from simulated scenarios, the performance and usability of the entire framework is analyzed in several real-world experiments with a fully-decentralized swarm of UAV deployed in outdoor conditions. To the best of our knowledge, these experiments are the first deployment of decentralized bio-inspired compact swarms of UAV without the use of a communication network or shared absolute localization. The entire system is available as open-source at https://github.com/ctu-mrs.


Steroid dermatitis resembling rosacea: aetiopathogenesis and treatment.
Corticosteroids were first introduced for topical use in dermatology in 1951. Since then uncontrolled use (abuse) has caused many different reactions, often with manifestations resembling those of rosacea. The prolonged use of local corticosteroids (usually 2-6 months) may lead to a clinical picture of severe dermatitis with erythema, papules and pustules that are classified according their localization to three types. The treatment of choice is tetracycline in combination with local application of neutral ointments. Trivial skin dermatoses, especially on the face, should not be treated with local corticosteroids.


Bye-bye mummy - Word comprehension in 9-month-old infants.
From the little research that exists on the onset of word learning in infants under the age of 1 year, the evidence suggests an idiosyncratic comprehensive vocabulary is developing. To further this field, we tested 49 nine-month-old infants by pre-assessing their vocabularies using a UK version of the MacArthur-Bates Communicative Developmental Inventory. Intermodal preferential looking (IPL) was then used to examine word comprehension including: (a) words parents reported as understood, (b) words infants are expected to understand according to age-related frequency data, and (c) words parents had reported infants not to understand. Assuming parents are good assessors of their infant's early word knowledge, we expected a naming effect with IPL in condition (a), but not condition (c). As language research uses standard samples of words, we expected a discernible naming effect in condition (b). Results show clear IPL evidence of word comprehension for those words that parents reported their infants to understand (condition a). This agreement between methods demonstrates the usefulness of parental communicative developmental inventory in conjunction with IPL to assess infant's individual word knowledge. No naming effects were found for condition (c) and the lack of naming effects in (b) shows that pre-established word lists may not give a sufficiently clear picture of infant's true vocabulary - an important insight for researchers and practitioners alike. Statement of contribution What is already known on this subject? Most word comprehension research is mainly based on older infants (12, 15, or 18 months of age to 2-3 years and older). Some evidence of word comprehension for common and novel nouns in 6- to 10-month-olds. Existing evidence uses either only specific word groups or nouns combined with specific training and/or repetition procedures. What does this study add? Nine-month-olds display word knowledge independent of context and without repetitions of words. First words encompass not only nouns, but a range of other word classes. Parents are good at indicating which words their infants do and do not understand.


Recombinant Dengue Virus 4 Envelope Glycoprotein Virus-Like Particles Derived from Pichia pastoris are Capable of Eliciting Homotypic Domain III-Directed Neutralizing Antibodies.
Dengue is a viral pandemic caused by four dengue virus serotypes (DENV-1, 2, 3, and 4) transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Reportedly, there has been a 2-fold increase in dengue cases every decade. An efficacious tetravalent vaccine, which can provide long-term immunity against all four serotypes in all target populations, is still unavailable. Despite the progress being made in the live virus-based dengue vaccines, the World Health Organization strongly recommends the development of alternative approaches for safe, affordable, and efficacious dengue vaccine candidates. We have explored virus-like particles (VLPs)-based nonreplicating subunit vaccine approach and have developed recombinant envelope ectodomains of DENV-1, 2, and 3 expressed in Pichia pastoris These self-assembled into VLPs without pre-membrane (prM) protein, which limits the generation of enhancing antibodies, and elicited type-specific neutralizing antibodies against the respective serotype. Encouraged by these results, we have extended this work further by developing P. pastoris-expressed DENV-4 ectodomain (DENV-4 E) in this study, which was found to be glycosylated and assembled into spherical VLPs without prM, and displayed critical neutralizing epitopes on its surface. These VLPs were found to be immunogenic in mice and elicited DENV-4-specific neutralizing antibodies, which were predominantly directed against envelope domain III, implicated in host-receptor recognition and virus entry. These observations underscore the potential of VLP-based nonreplicative vaccine approach as a means to develop a safe, efficacious, and tetravalent dengue subunit vaccine. This work paves the way for the evaluation of a DENV E-based tetravalent dengue vaccine candidate, as an alternative to live virus-based dengue vaccines.


Inhibition of melanogenesis and oxidation by protocatechuic acid from Origanum vulgare (oregano).
Antioxidant and antimelanogenesis activities of protocatechuic acid (1) from Origanum vulgare (oregano) were investigated. The antioxidative capacity of 1 was confirmed from its free-radical-scavenging activities, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, and suppression of reactive oxygen species in H(2)O(2)-induced BNLCL2 cells. The inhibition by 1 of tyrosinase and DOPA oxidase activity and melanin production was possibly related to the down-regulation of melanocortin-1 receptor, microphthalmia-associated transcription factor, tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related proteins-2, and tyrosinase-related proteins-1 expression in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-induced B16 cells. After a gel containing 1 was applied to mice, the values of L* slightly increased, and a* and erythema-melanin levels of skin were reduced by comparing the values of untreated control groups, indicating 1 can reduce melanin production. These results suggest that 1 may act as an effective quencher of oxidative attackers with antimelanogenesis properties.


Barriers facing physicians practicing evidence-based medicine in Saudi Arabia.
Tremendous advances in health care have been made through the development of evidence-based medicine (EBM). Studies show that physicians face barriers in practice, preventing the effective use of the best evidence available. Insight into these barriers should pave the way for an action plan to remove them. The aim of this study was to explore the major barriers to the practice of EBM by physicians in primary health care centers (PHCCs) and hospitals. This cross-sectional study was conducted on physicians in PHCCs and Ministry of Health hospitals in the Dammam area (Dammam, Alkhobar, and Alqatief) of Saudi Arabia. A sample size of 409 physicians was chosen. Barriers to the practice of EBM and the reasons for not giving patients effective health care were investigated through questionnaires. The response rate was 66. 7%. The main barriers to practicing EBM stated by physicians were the lack of training in EBM (72.9%), facilities (34.4%), and time (29.2%). The least mentioned barriers were the lack of relevant evidence and the negative impact on medical skills (10.4% each). Rather than skepticism about the concept, the main barriers to the use of EBM by physicians appeared to be a lack of knowledge and basic skills. Therefore, targeted education in EBM and a system that quickly delivers high-quality evidence are needed. This includes the allocation of an adequate infrastructure and time and the availability of relevant evidence.


Antiproliferative, antimigratory, and prooxidative potential of novel platinum(IV) complexes and resveratrol on breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) and choriocarcinoma (JEG-3) cell lines.
Platinum(IV) complexes offer the potential to overcome cisplatin resistance of cancer cells, with possible improved selectivity. Resveratrol, a natural polyphenol with anticancer and antioxidant capacity, could limit the possible side effects of chemotherapeutics on healthy cells. This study investigates the effects of platinum(IV) complexes containing some esters of the ethylenediamine-N,N'-di-S,S-(2,2'-dibenzyl)acetate acid (H2 -S,S-eddba), and resveratrol on proliferation, migration, and redox balance of breast cancer (MDA-MB-231), choriocarcinoma (JEG-3), and human lung fibroblast (MRC-5) cell line. According to IC50 values, all complexes exhibited a significantly stronger antiproliferative effect on tested cell lines compared to cisplatin. Due to reduced adverse effects on MRC-5 cells, the complex containing ethyl-substituent (10 μM) was selected for further examination with resveratrol (25 μM) cotreatment. Resveratrol enhanced the survival of MRC-5 cells while diminished the viability of both used cancer cell lines when applied combined with selected complex. Furthermore, cotreatment of these two compounds decreased the migratory potential of tested cancer cell lines. The examined platinum(IV) complex was able to induce oxidative stress in all tested cell lines. Resveratrol proved to be efficient in protecting MRC-5 cells from complex-induced oxidative damage, while it significantly amplified antiproliferative, antimigratory, and prooxidative effects of platinum(IV) complex on both examined cancer cell lines. These findings may be valuable in elucidating the mechanism of action of platinum(IV) drugs, which should be further investigated.


Plasma kinetics of a cholesterol-rich microemulsion in patients submitted to heart transplantation.
Development of coronary graft disease is currently the main cause of late heart-transplantation (HT) failure. HT patients frequently show hypercholesterolemia as well as alterations in chylomicron metabolism. These postHT changes may be important in coronary graft disease development. To clarify whether hypercholesterolemia is caused by decreased low-density lipoprotein (LDL) removal from the plasma, we studied the plasma kinetics of a cholesterol-rich emulsion that binds to LDL receptor. We studied 13 HT patients and 13 healthy normolipidemic subjects paired for sex, age, and body mass index. An emulsion labeled with C-cholesteryl oleate was injected intravenously, and blood samples were collected in predetermined intervals (5 minutes, 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 hours) to determine the radioactivity decay curves and to calculate the fractional clearance rates (FCR). The plasma level of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and apo B were greater in HT group than in the control group (P<0.005). FCR C-cholesteryl oleate was smaller in HT patients when compared with the control group (P=0.02). The results showed that HT patients have a deficiency in the mechanisms of LDL removal from the plasma, as tested by the cholesterol-rich emulsion, and this may be important in the development of coronary graft disease.


The role of single element errors in planar parabolic compound refractive lenses.
The propagation of X-rays through a compound refractive lens (CRL) with imperfect CRL elements is investigated. The trajectories of random rays within the geometrical optics regime are calculated in one plane using Monte Carlo methods. Three different lenses were simulated: Be, Al and Ni lenses designed for photon energies of 20 keV, 60 keV and 175 keV, respectively. The results show that while transverse displacements of single elements in a CRL do not influence imaging resolution, rotational errors can be important. Systematic calculations of aberrations owing to the deviation of the element's surface from a perfect parabolic shape are also presented.


Strong genetic differentiation but not local adaptation toward the range limit of a coastal dune plant.
All species have limited geographic distributions; but the ecological and evolutionary mechanisms causing range limits are largely unknown. That many species' geographic range limits are coincident with niche limits suggests limited evolutionary potential of marginal populations to adapt to conditions experienced beyond the range. We provide a test of range limit theory by combining population genetic analysis of microsatellite polymorphisms with a transplant experiment within, at the edge of, and 60 km beyond the northern range of a coastal dune plant. Contrary to expectations, lifetime fitness increased toward the range limit with highest fitness achieved by most populations at and beyond the range edge. Genetic differentiation among populations was strong, with very low, nondirectional gene flow suggesting range limitation via constraints to dispersal. In contrast, however, local adaptation was negligible, and a distance-dependent decline in fitness only occurred for those populations furthest from home when planted beyond the range limit. These results challenge a commonly held assumption that stable range limits match niche limits, but also raise questions about the unique value of peripheral populations in expanding species' geographical ranges.


Abscisic Acid Movement into the Apoplastic solution of Water-Stressed Cotton Leaves: Role of Apoplastic pH.
Leaves of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) were subjected to overpressures in a pressure chamber, and the exuded sap was collected and analyzed. The exudate contained low concentrations of solutes that were abundant in total leaf extracts, and photosynthetic rates and stomatal conductance were completely unaffected by a cycle of pressurization and rehydration. These criteria and others indicate that the experimental techniques inflicted no damage upon the leaf cells. The pH and abscisic acid (ABA) content of the apoplastic fluid both increased greatly with pressure-induced dehydration. Although ABA concentrations did not reach a steady state, the peak levels were above 1 micromolar, an order of magnitude greater than bulk ABA concentrations of the leaf blades. Treatment of leaves with fusicoccin decreased the K(+) concentration, greatly reduced the pH rise, and completely eliminated the increase in ABA in the apoplast upon dehydration. When water-stressed leaves were pressurized, the pH of the exuded sap was increased by 0.2 units per 1 megapascal decrease in initial leaf water potential. Buffer capacity of the sap was least in the pH range of interest (6.5-7.5), allowing extremely small changes in H(+) fluxes to create large changes in apoplastic pH. The data indicate that dehydration causes large changes in apoplastic pH, perhaps by effects on ATPases; the altered pH then enhances the release of ABA from mesophyll cells into the apoplastic fluid.


The cellular kinase binding motifs (PxxP and RR) in human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Nef protein are dispensable for producer-cell-dependent enhancement of viral entry.
We have recently demonstrated that human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Nef is required for enhancing viral infectivity by increasing the efficiency of viral entry in a producer-cell-dependent manner, suggesting the possible involvement of a cellular factor(s) in the enhancement of viral entry. Moreover, it has been reported that a proline-rich (PxxP) motif and an Arg-Arg (RR) motif in HIV-1 Nef bind to the SH3 domain of the Src-family tyrosine kinase Hck and to a serine/threonine kinase, respectively. To address whether these cellular kinase binding motifs, PxxP and RR, could be involved in virus producer-cell-dependent enhancement of viral entry, we constructed two nef mutant proviral clones in which these motifs were mutated. The results show that the HIV-1 Nef PxxP motif, which significantly influenced viral infectivity, and the RR motif, which modestly affected viral infectivity, were both dispensable for enhanced viral entry, thus suggesting that another interaction of Nef with a cellular factor(s) is involved in the efficiency of viral entry.


[Decisional criteria in the management of vesico-ureteral reflux in children with congenital neurogenic bladder].
To determine, in the particular case of neurogenic bladder, the best criteria for selection and grading of the modalities available for the treatment of vesicoureteric reflux, which is often associated. 194 patients with congenital neurogenic bladder, including 76 cases with vesicoureteric reflux were retrospectively reviewed. The various treatments applied, their results and their complications were reviewed. Conclusions are drawn and proposals are made for the optimal management of vesicoureteric reflux in the particular context of congenital neurogenic bladder. This series included 8 grade I, 28 grade II, 49 grade III and 23 grade IV and V. In more than 50% of cases, reflux was detected on during routine assessment of congenital neurogenic bladder, demonstrating the value of this assessment (25% of cases of reflux were detected before the age of one year). Management initially consisted of vesical drainage, often by intermittent catheterization, from the age of 2 to 3 years and antibiotic prophylaxis. This treatment was sufficient to correct reflux in 9 cases and to control it in 16 cases (no urinary tract infection, no deterioration of the upper tract). An elective anti-reflux operation was decided in 69 cases of VUR (1 grade I, 15 grade II, 38 grade III, 16 grade IV or V). Cohen's technique was performed in 3 cases and endoscopic injection of PTFE was performed in 3 cases. Most of these refluxing bladders were hypertonic and/or presented an abnormally high closing pressure. The operative criteria were: symptomatic reflux; persistent reflux; renal deterioration; non-compliance with treatment. Several complications were observed and are described. Vesicoureteric reflux in the context of congenital neurogenic bladder plays a major role in the deterioration of renal function. These forms of reflux usually occur in hypertonic bladders. Urodynamic studies appear essential before deciding treatment. Intermittent catheterization is able to control or even correct a certain number of these cases of reflux and should be introduced by the age of 2 or 3 years. When surgery is required, Cohen's operation is the easiest to perform, but is associated with an increased complication rate. Injection of PTFE or macroplastic could constitute a good indication.


Worksheets with embedded checklists support IV chemotherapy safer practice.
Following a review of a chemotherapy medication adverse event where the incorrect medication was prepared by a pharmacy, a number of steps were taken to review the literature and best practice information related to checking processes for the preparation of parenteral chemotherapy. Concepts such as identification of critical stop check points, independent double checks, and human factors principles were reviewed and incorporated into newly designed chemotherapy preparation worksheets with embedded checklists. Usability testing and staff feedback during implementation revealed a number of key learning points that resulted in additional work to further improve the chemotherapy worksheets with embedded checklists and highlighted the need for a culture of continuous quality improvement.


Human monoclonal antibodies to glycolipid A that exhibit complement species-specific effector functions.
Two human IgM monoclonal anti-glycolipid A antibodies (MAbs) were evaluated for their abilities to bind to various endotoxins and pathogenic gram-negative bacteria and to activate complement pathways, thereby accomplishing bactericidal and opsonic effector functions. Both MAbs cross-reacted with glycolipid A mutant lipopolysaccharides from rough colony-forming gram-negative bacteria and with selected endotoxins from smooth colony-forming bacteria. However, MAb 10235 bound to all clinical isolates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae tested but only very weakly to Pseudomonas aeruginosa, whereas MAb 10058 bound to all three genera. Several strains of serum-insensitive organisms were selected for evaluation of antigen-specific, complement-mediated effector functions for the two MAbs. Assessment of bactericidal and opsonic activities showed that neither MAb was able to activate complement from nonprimate species (mouse, rat, rabbit, guinea pig, or sheep). However, both MAbs were highly effective in using primate sources of serum complement to mediate these effector functions.


A comparative evaluation of remineralizing ability of bioactive glass and amorphous calcium phosphate casein phosphopeptide on early enamel lesion.
This study was done to evaluate remineralizing potential of bioactive glasses (BAGs) and amorphous calcium phosphate-casein phosphopeptide (ACP-CPP) on early enamel lesion. Twenty freshly extracted mandibular premolars were sectioned sagittally. The buccal half was impregnated in acrylic resin blocks and treated with 37% phosphoric acid in liquid form, to demineralize enamel surface to simulate early enamel lesion. The samples were divided into two groups. The samples in Group I were treated with ACP-CPP (GC Tooth Mousse) and in Group II with BAG (Sensodyne Repair and Protect) and stored in saliva to prevent dehydration. The samples were tested for microhardness. The data obtained was analyzed using ANOVA post hoc multiple comparison and independent sample t- test and presented as a mean and standard deviation. All the samples showed a decrease in the microhardness after demineralization. After application of remineralizing agents, Group II showed a highly significant increase in the microhardness (P < 0.05) after 10 days, while Group I showed a significant increase in microhardness after 15 days (P < 0.05). Both the remineralizing agents tested in this study can be considered effective in repair and prevention of demineralization. BAG showed better results initially, but eventually both have similar remineralizing potential.


Effect of acute hepatitis E infection in patients with liver cirrhosis.
Hepatitis E virus is a major cause of enterically transmitted hepatitis. Mortality is very high if it is associated with pregnancy, especially during third trimester. This study was carried out to find out the effects of acute HEV hepatitis on Chronic Liver Disease patients of different etiologies. The consecutive patients of liver cirrhosis with definite evidence of recent HEV infection were enrolled in this study. Acute hepatitis was diagnosed by presence of prodromal symptoms and anti-HEV IgM antibody in their serum. The outcomes after superinfection with HEV hepatitis were determined by changes in Child Pugh score, recovery of liver function test, hospital stay and mortality. After exclusion 25 were studied. The etiology of cirrhosis in patients was: alcohol 13, autoimmune hepatitis 3, hepatitis B 2, Budd Chiari syndrome 2, alcohol plus hepatitis B 1, hepatitis C 1, cardiac cirrhosis 1, Wilson's disease 1 and cryptogenic 1. All patients with no recent decompensation showed signs of decompensation during admission. Seven (28%) patients died. The cause of death was either upper gastrointestinal bleeding or hepatorenal syndrome. Remaining patients had prolonged hospital stay with deterioration of Child-Pugh's score. Superinfection of HEV in cirrhotic patient causes rapid decompensation. The morbidity and mortality is higher compared to those non-infected patients. Development of hepatorenal syndrome and upper GI bleeding was commonest cause of death.


Evaluation of the direct agglutination test and the rK39 dipstick test for the sero-diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis.
The direct agglutination test (DAT) based on a freeze-dried antigen and the rK39 dipstick test were evaluated for the sero-diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis (VL). The sensitivity and specificity of both tests were determined using sera from confirmed VL patients (n = 21), healthy controls (n = 19) and from patients with other confirmed infectious diseases (n = 42). The DAT had a sensitivity and a specificity of 100%. The rK39 had a sensitivity of 85.7% and a specificity of 82%. Both tests were also used to screen blood samples of confirmed VL patients (n = 15) and serum samples of VL suspects (n = 61). The DAT found all blood samples of confirmed VL patients positive and tested 98.4% of the serum samples of the VL suspects positive. In contrast, rK39 detected in 9/15 blood samples (60%) antibodies against Leishmania chagasi and found 85.3% of the serum samples of the suspected patients positive. Although the rK39 dipstick is more rapid and user friendlier than the DAT, the latter has a superior sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, the reagents used for DAT do not require cold storage, whereas the buffer of the rK39 must be stored at 4oC. Therefore, the DAT is the most suitable test for the sero-diagnosis of VL under field conditions.


In-hospital care pathways for stroke.
Stroke care pathways have the potential to promote organised and efficient patient care that is based on best evidence and guidelines, but evidence to support their use is unclear. We aimed to assess the effects of care pathways, compared with standard medical care, among patients with acute stroke who had been admitted to hospital. We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group Trials Register (last searched in June 2003), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library, Issue 2, 2003), MEDLINE (1975 to June 2003), EMBASE (1980 to June 2003), CINAHL (1982 to June 2003), ISI Proceedings: Science & Technology (1990 to November 2003), and HealthSTAR (1994 to May 2001). We also handsearched the Journal of Integrated Care Pathways (2001 to 2003), formerly Journal of Managed Care (1997 to 1998) and Journal of Integrated Care (1998 to 2001). Reference lists of articles were searched. We considered randomised controlled trials and non-randomised studies that compared care pathway care with standard medical care. One reviewer selected studies for inclusion and the other independently checked the decisions. Two reviewers independently assessed the methodological quality of the studies. One reviewer extracted the data and the other checked the extracted data. Three randomised controlled trials (340 patients) and 12 non-randomised studies (4081 patients) were included. There was significant statistical heterogeneity in the analysis of many of the outcomes. We found no significant difference between care pathway and control groups in terms of death or discharge destination. Patients managed with a care pathway were: (a) more dependent at discharge (P = 0.04); (b) less likely to suffer a urinary tract infection (Odds Ratio (OR) 0.51, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 0.34 to 0.79); (c) less likely to be readmitted (OR 0.11, 95% CI 0.03 to 0.39); and (d) more likely to have neuroimaging (OR 2.42, 95% CI 1.12 to 5.25). Evidence from randomised trials suggested that patient satisfaction and quality of life were significantly lower in the care pathway group (P = 0.02 and P < 0.005 respectively). Use of stroke care pathways may be associated with positive and negative effects. Since most of the results have been derived from non-randomised studies, they are likely to be influenced by potential biases and confounding factors. There is currently insufficient supporting evidence to justify the routine implementation of care pathways for acute stroke management or stroke rehabilitation.


Agreement between calcaneal quantitative ultrasound and osteoporosis self-assessment tool for Asians in identifying individuals at risk of osteoporosis.
Calcaneal quantitative ultrasound (QUS) is a useful tool in osteoporosis screening. However, QUS device may not be available at all primary health care settings. Osteoporosis self-assessment tool for Asians (OSTA) is a simple algorithm for osteoporosis screening that does not require any sophisticated instruments. This study explored the possibility of replacing QUS with OSTA by determining their agreement in identifying individuals at risk of osteoporosis. A cross-sectional study was conducted to recruit Malaysian men and women aged ≥50 years. Their bone health status was measured using a calcaneal QUS device and OSTA. The association between OSTA and QUS was determined using Spearman's correlation and their agreement was assessed using Cohen Kappa and receiver-operating curve. All QUS indices correlated significantly with OSTA (p<0.05). The agreement between QUS and OSTA was minimal but statistically significant (p<0.05). The performance of OSTA in identifying subjects at risk of osteoporosis according to QUS was poor-to-fair in women (p<0.05), but not statistically significant for men (p>0.05). Changing the cut-off values improved the performance of OSTA in women but not in men. The agreement between QUS and OSTA is minimal in categorizing individuals at risk of osteoporosis. Therefore, they cannot be used interchangeably in osteoporosis screening.


Relationship between disability and health-related quality of life and caregiver burden in patients with upper limb poststroke spasticity.
To evaluate the relationship between disability and both health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and caregiver burden in patients with upper limb poststroke spasticity. Multicenter open-label study. Thirty-five sites in North America. Patients (N = 279) with upper limb poststroke spasticity. Post hoc analyses of data from an open-label study were performed to estimate HRQoL and caregiver burden at study baseline across levels of disability in 4 problem domains: hygiene, dressing, limb posture, and pain. Disability severity in these areas was determined by using the 4-point Disability Assessment Scale rated by the physicians. HRQoL measured by the patient-reported EuroQol 5 Dimensions questionnaire and the Stroke-Adapted Sickness Impact Profile and caregiver burden. At study baseline, increasing disability in the hygiene, dressing, and pain domains of the Disability Assessment Scale was associated with diminishing HRQoL scores (P < .002) measured by the EuroQol 5 Dimensions. By using the Stroke-Adapted Sickness Impact Profile, greater disability scores in all problem domains were significantly associated with higher overall dysfunction scores (P ≤ .05). Within the physical dimension of the Stroke-Adapted Sickness Impact Profile, significant associations also were observed in all domains. At baseline, caregiver burden was significantly related to increasing levels of hygiene and dressing domain severity (P ≤ .05). Caregiver assistance requirement increased from approximately 9.0-28.2 hours per week in the hygiene domain and 3.3-32.1 hours per week in the dressing domain as disability increased from "none" to "severe." In patients with upper limb poststroke spasticity, increasing disability in the hygiene, dressing, and pain domains of the Disability Assessment Scale were associated with diminishing HRQoL. Furthermore, these patients required caregiver assistance proportionally related to the severity of their disability in the hygiene and dressing domains.


The use of digital artery sympathectomy as a salvage procedure for severe ischemia of Raynaud's disease and phenomenon.
We retrospectively reviewed the effectiveness of digital artery sympathectomy as a last resort to prevent amputation in severe cases of Raynaud's disease and phenomenon. Seven patients underwent digital artery sympathectomy as a salvage procedure to prevent amputation. The patients developed cold intolerance secondary to atherosclerosis or collagen vascular disease. The results were analyzed using the criteria of ulcer healing and the prevention of amputation. In 6 of the 7 patients, the digital ulcers healed and amputation was avoided.


Gradient nanofiber scaffolds for tissue engineering.
Scaffolds are one of the key factors for the success of tissue engineering, in particular when dealing with anchorage-dependent cells. The concept of using scaffolds in tissue engineering lies in mimicking the physical, chemical and biological features of native extracellular matrix (ECM) in order to support cell function, which in turn regulates cellular microenvironment that directs cell growth and subsequent tissue formation. Nanofibers fabricated from both synthetic and natural polymers are being used as scaffolds in many tissue engineering applications. At the molecular level, native ECM is made up of a gradient of fibrous proteins and polysaccharides that are nanoscale structures. The gradient cues of ECM, directs critical cell behaviors such as alignment, motility and differentiation, particularly in the region between soft and hard tissues called interfacial tissue. Therefore, it is essential to develop gradient nanofiber scaffolds particularly for interfacial tissue engineering applications. Keeping these points in view, in this article, we review the recent developments of gradient nanofiber scaffolds, their design strategies, and their applications in tissue engineering.


Influence of tibial bearing curvatures of a customised total knee implant on squatting motion and loads.
A range of preliminary designs of customised total knee implants (CTKIs) was created by resurfacing the distal femur and applying different tibial bearing surface curvatures. These were then compared with a scaled off-the-shelf symmetric total knee implant (STKI). To evaluate the biomechanical performance, a dynamic knee simulation model was created with patient-specific muscle and ankle joint loads calculated from an OpenSim musculoskeletal model. Simulation results showed the transverse curvatures of the tibial bearing surface influenced femoral mediolateral translation, while its longitudinal curvatures affected femoral adduction. Compared to the STKI, the CTKIs could restore patient knee function.


Role of Osmotic Potential Gradients during Water Stress and Leaf Senescence in Fragaria virginiana.
The physiological basis underlying differences in sensitivity of different aged leaves to water stress was investigated in Fragaria virginiana Duchesne. Differential susceptibility of only older leaves to water stress in the field during summer months appeared related to gradients in leaf osmotic potential within the plant and by an age dependency in the ability of leaves to adjust osmotically when challenged by periodic water deficits. Under greenhouse conditions, older leaves senesced invariably during an imposed water stress while control leaves of comparable age and stressed younger leaves remained green. Osmotic potentials of intermediate aged and younger leaves became approximately 1 to 2 bars lower after a single cycle of imposed stress and up to 10 bars lower after two cycles of stress. Pronounced gradients in leaf osmotic potential within individual whole plants were observed following two cycles of water stress that were significantly different from control values. Osmotic adjustment was dependent on leaf age with the greatest capacity for adjustment in the intermediate aged leaves. Loss of osmotic adjustment was rapid upon rewatering with a half-life of 4 days. An irreversible component of adjustment was observed, amounting to about 10% (or 2 bars) of the maximally adjusted state. This irreversible component could be accounted for in part by significant changes in cell size and other anatomical alterations in the leaf that affect cellular osmotic volume, and, hence, cellular water relations.


Functional microRNA generated from a cytoplasmic RNA virus.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small, non-coding RNAs that play a pivotal role in the regulation of posttranscriptional gene expression in a wide range of eukaryotic organisms. Although DNA viruses have been shown to encode miRNAs and exploit the cellular RNA silencing machinery as a convenient way to regulate viral and host gene expression, it is generally believed that this pathway is not available to RNA viruses that replicate in the cytoplasm of the cell because miRNA biogenesis is initiated in the nucleus. In fact, among the >200 viral miRNAs that have been experimentally verified so far, none is derived from an RNA virus. Here, we show that a cytoplasmic RNA virus can indeed encode and produce a functional miRNA. We introduced a heterologous miRNA-precursor stem-loop sequence element into the RNA genome of the flavivirus tick-borne encephalitis virus, and this led to the production of a functional miRNA during viral infection without impairing viral RNA replication. These findings demonstrate that miRNA biogenesis can be used by cytoplasmic RNA viruses to produce regulatory molecules for the modulation of the transcriptome.


Evidence for Mediated HCO(3) Transport in Isolated Pea Mesophyll Protoplasts.
The kinetics of (14)C fixation, and inorganic C (C(inorg)) accumulation, have been followed in isolated pea mesophyll protoplasts. NaH(14)CO(3) was supplied to the protoplasts in media the pH of which was varied between 7 and 8.When (14)CO(2) fixation was plotted against the calculated concentration of free CO(2) in the media, the apparent K(m) for CO(2) was observed to rise as external pH increased. The V(max) did not alter significantly. Similarly, when C(inorg) uptake, either in the light or in the dark, was plotted against external CO(2) concentration the slope of the curves was steeper at higher external pH.Investigation of the time course of uptake showed that internal C(inorg) concentration rose throughout the experimental period, and that in the light it surpassed the external C(inorg) concentration after about 3 minutes. Irradiation of protoplasts previously taking up (14)C(inorg) in the dark brought about a sharp increase in the rate of (14)C(inorg) accumulation which was sustained for at least 20 minutes.Estimates of internal pH based on the distribution of labeled 5,5-dimethyloxazoladine-2,4-dione (DMO) between protoplast and medium suggested that internal pH altered relatively little with change in external pH. The values for internal pH as calculated from C(inorg) distribution were always higher than those calculated from DMO distribution, i.e. the internal C(inorg) concentration was higher than would be predicted on the assumption of passive distribution in accordance with pH.Addition of carbonic anhydrase to the external solution was without effect either on rate of (14)CO(2) fixation or C(inorg) accumulation.Various possible interpretations of the results are considered. It is concluded that the most reasonable explanation, consistent with all the data, is that HCO(3) (-) ions can cross the protoplast membranes, and that their passage is mediated by a transfer mechanism.


Effect of competence health cultivation on the prevention and control of inadvertent perioperative hypothermia.
OBJECTIVE To explore the feasibility of health competence cultivation on the prevention and control of Inadvertent Perioperative Hypothermia (IPH). METHODS Patients with expected spinal surgery were divided into group A and group B by the random number method. Group B followed routine IPH management, and health training measures for performance and ability were implemented in Group A. The scores of the health competence questionnaire, the temperature at different times, IPH complications, and hospitalization for the two groups were observed and compared. RESULTS The main evaluation indexes, such as the health competence questionnaire score, temperature fluctuations, and IPH complications, during the perioperative period in group A were significantly better than those in group B (p < 0.05). The indexes of anesthesia, total hospital expenses, and health service satisfaction in group A were also significantly better than those in group B, which shows the advantages of cultivating health capabilities in both doctors and patients. CONCLUSION Through health competence cultivation and feasible health management measures, the medical staff can improve the quality of IPH prevention and management.


The endovascular treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations.
Advances in superselective microcatheterization techniques, which took place in the past decade, established superselective endovascular exploration as an integral and indispensable tool in the pretherapeutic evaluation of brain AVMs. The strict and routine application of superselective angiography furthered our knowledge on the angioarchitecture of brain AVMs, including vascular composition of the nidus, types of feeding arteries and types and patterns of venous drainage. In addition, various types of weak angioarchitectural elements, such as flow-related aneurysms, intranidal vascular cavities and varix formation proximal to high-grade stenosis of draining veins, could be identified as factors predisposing for AVM rupture. A wide spectrum of secondary angiomorphological changes induced by the arteriovenous shunt of the nidus and occurring up- and downstream of the nidus have been identified as manifestations of high-flow angiopathy. These data help to better predict the natural history, understand the widely variable clinical presentation and to define therapeutic targets of brain AVMs. Correlation of the topography of the AVM as demonstrated by MR with the angioarchitecture as demonstrated by superselective angiography provided a system for topographic-vascular classification of brain AVMs, which proved very useful for patient selection and definition of therapeutic goals. This study showed, that 40% of patients with brain AVMs can be cured by embolization alone with a severe morbidity of 1.3% and a mortality of 1.3%. Part of theses patients can, however, be cured equally effective by microsurgery or radiosurgery. Which modality will be chosen for a particular patient will mainly depend on the locally available expertise and experience, but also on the preference of the patient following its comprehensive information about the chances for cure and the risks associated with each of these therapeutic modalities. Embolization has a significant role in the multimodality treatment of brain AVMs, by either enabling or facilitating subsequent microsurgical or radiosurgical treatment. Appropriately targeted embolization in otherwise untreatable AVMs represents a reasonable form of palliative treatment of either ameliorating the clinical condition of the patient or reducing the potential risk of hemorrhage. Regarding the practical aspects of the endovascular treatment the following conclusions could be drawn from the experience obtained with this series of 387 patients with a brain AVM: (1) The goal of endovascular treatment should be defined prior to the procedure. This does not preclude a change in the goal, if additional information obtained during the procedure make this necessary. (2) The result of endovascular treatment of a brain AVM in terms of the degree of obliteration achieved and complication rate depends mainly on the endovascular strategy developed and the technique applied. These depend on the specific angioarchitecture and topography of the individual AVM, on the past history and clinical presentation of the patient and on the predefined goal of embolization. The strategy should include the definition of embolization targets, the selection of the most appropriate approach for endovascular navigation, the determination of the sequence of catheterization of individual feeding arteries, the selection of the type of catheters and microcatheters, the selection of the appropriate embolic materials as well as the site and mode of their delivery. Thereafter, every endovascular move should be, as in a chess game, the result of a logical plan. (3) Atraumatic superselective microcatheterization is a key point in the endovascular treatment of brain AVMs. It requires manual skills, knowledge of anatomy and respect for the vascular wall. (4) All locations of brain AVMs should be regarded as eloquent, and no distinction should be made between eloquent and non-eloquent areas of the brain when deciding on the execution of embolizatio


Flocculation of metals during mixing of Siyahrud River water with Caspian Sea water.
Flocculation of dissolved Cu, Mn, Ni, Zn, and Pb during mixing of Siyahrud River water with water sample of Caspian Sea at nine different salinity regimes was investigated. The maximum flocculation of elements occurs in the salinities 1.67‰ to 3.67‰ (except for Zn). The flocculation trend of Zn (80.9) >Mn (58.3) > Cu (30.5) > Ni (25.9) > Pb (19.5) indicates that flocculation of metals have nonlinear behavior towards salinity changes during estuarine mixing. Electrical conductivity shows a linear behavior in different proportions of salinity which is in contrast with the behavior of other studied parameters. Cluster analysis indicates that pH and NO(3) are governing factors in the flocculation of Cu, Mn, and Pb. The results of this research show that 80.9%, 19.5%, 25.9%, 30.5%, and 58.3% of dissolved Zn, Pb, Ni, Cu, and Mn flocculate during estuarine mixing. Total amount of studied dissolved element flowing in to the Caspian Sea would decrease from 5.62 to 2.76 t/year.


Prevention by methionine of enhancement of hepatocarcinogenesis by coadministration of a choline-deficient L-amino acid-defined diet and ethionine in rats.
The effects of methionine on hepatocarcinogenesis induced by coadministration of a choline-deficient L-amino acid-defined (CDAA) diet and ethionine were examined. F344 male rats were divided into 4 experimental groups. Groups 1 and 2 received the CDAA diet and a choline-supplemented L-amino acid-defined (CSAA)++ diet, respectively. Group 3 received the CDAA diet containing 0.05% ethionine, and group 4 the CDAA diet containing 0.05% ethionine and 0.47% methionine. Animals were killed after 12 weeks of treatment. Histologically, the CDAA diet induced intracellular fat accumulation and foci. In contrast, ethionine caused not only foci, but also hyperplastic nodules, cholangiofibrosis and the proliferation of oval cells without such fat accumulation. Methionine abolished the development of all of the liver lesions induced by coadministration of the CDAA diet and ethionine. To investigate the effects of methionine on induction of c-myc and c-Ha-ras expression, as well as generation of 8-hydroxyguanine (8-OHGua) and 2-thiobarbituric acid-reacting substances (TBARS), by coadministration of the CDAA diet and ethionine, subgroups of 3 to 5 animals were killed at 2, 4, 8, or 11 days after the beginning of the experiment. Coadministration of the CDAA diet and ethionine markedly enhanced the level of expression of c-myc and c-Ha-ras, 8-OHGua formation and TBARS generation as compared with the CDAA or CSAA diet within 11 days, and methionine blocks these actions. These results indicate that addition of methionine prevents the induction of c-myc and c-Ha-ras expression, 8-OHGua formation and TBARS generation, as well as hepatocellular lesions, by coadministration of the CDAA diet and ethionine in rats, and suggest a possible involvement of oxidative stress and gene expression in hepatocarcinogenesis by these agents.


Establishment of a rhabdomyosarcoma xenograft model in human-adapted mice.
The outcome of patients with advanced stage rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is still sobering. This outcome has not improved through conservative treatments. Therefore, novel treatment approaches such as immunotherapy need to be evaluated in human-adapted animal models. The aim of this study was to develop a humanized mouse model of childhood RMS as a basis for the study of immunotherapeutic approaches. Therefore, NOD/LtSz-scid IL2rgammanull-mice were used for all the experiments (n=19). The animals underwent sublethal irradiation on days 1 and 2 (1 x 300 cGy). After irradiation, the transplantation of human CD34+-cells (1,000,000 cells per animal i.v.) was carried out. Five animals served as the control and did not undergo stem cell transplantation. The engraftment of human cells was assessed in peripheral blood on days 21 and 55 by FACS analysis. Eight weeks after transplantation, the subcutaneous xenotransplantation of human alveolar and embryonal RMS cell lines was carried out. Tumor growth was monitored and tumors were resected 93 days after CD34+-transplantation. The tumor specimens were evaluated histologically. The successful engraftment of human cells with the establishment of a human immune system was observed in 12 out of 14 animals. B and T cells were mostly detected in the peripheral blood. There were only a few monocytes and almost no natural killer cells. The xenotransplantation of alveolar RMS resulting in subcutaneous tumor growth was feasible in 7 animals. The xenotransplantation of embryonal RMS was performed in 5 animals and led to tumor growth in 1 animal. A histological work up showed either alveolar or embryonal RMS cells with central necrosis. This is the first time a xenotransplantation model of human RMS has been developed in a humanized mouse model. The establishment of subcutaneous tumor xenografts was more effective in the alveolar subtype. This model offers a basic tool for further analyzing novel immunotherapeutic approaches in RMS, and could possibly be used in other solid pediatric tumors.


Hydrogen clearance: assessment of technique for measurement of skin-flap blood flow in pigs.
The hydrogen clearance technique has been used for many years by investigators to determine brain blood flow and has been partially validated in this setting using other methods of blood flow measurement. The method has been modified to allow blood flow measurements in skin, but the accuracy of H2 clearance for measuring skin blood flow has not been determined. Multiple blood flow measurements were performed using H2 clearance and radioactive microspheres on skin flaps and control skin in pigs. On 12 pigs, a total of 117 flap and 42 control skin measurements were available for analysis. There was no significant difference between the two techniques in measuring mean control skin blood flow. In skin flaps, H2 clearance was significantly correlated to microsphere-measured blood flow, but it consistently gave an overestimate. Sources of error may include injury to the tissues by insertion of electrodes, consumption of H2 by the electrodes, or diffusion of H2 from the relatively ischemic flap to its well-vascularized bed. Further studies are necessary to determine the cause of this error and to measure the technique's accuracy in skeletal muscle and other flaps.


Biomaterials and Granulomas
The rapidly expanding use of implants for reconstruction and repair of diseased or traumatized tissues and organs has fueled the search for biomaterials that are stable, nontoxic, and biologically inert. Unfortunately, implants frequently cause acute or chronic inflammation resulting in tissue damage and rejection. Inflammation usually occurs at the biomaterial-tissue interface and reflects surface adsorption of plasma proteins, complement activation, neutrophil and macrophage infiltration, hyperplasia, and release of inflammatory mediators and proteolytic enzymes. If the biomaterial degrades, either spontaneously or due to biologic activity, components can leach into surrounding tissues and may enter the circulation, causing toxic effects systemically and in distant sites. Inflammation of connective tissues in genetically susceptible individuals can potentially activate the immune system and break tolerance to tissue-specific antigens. Experimentally induced animal models of arthritis chronicle the evolution of a chronic, destructive inflammation localized to peripheral joints. Models of autoimmune arthritis involve hyperimmunization with heterologous cartilage components, such as type II collagen or proteoglycan, leading to cross-reactivity with self-cartilage. Other apparently nonimmune models, oil-induced arthritis and pristane arthritis, may reflect granuloma formation and uncontrolled cytokine production. The antigen-induced arthritis model, developed by hyperimmunization with a foreign antigen that is subsequently injected into the joint cavity, is ideal for biocompatibility testing of cationic substances that may be immunogenic. This variety of models offers the means to understand adverse implant-tissue interactions and granuloma formation such that safer biomaterials can be developed in the future.


Genetic influences of autism candidate genes on circuit wiring and olfactory decoding.
Olfaction supports a multitude of behaviors vital for social communication and interactions between conspecifics. Intact sensory processing is contingent upon proper circuit wiring. Disturbances in genetic factors controlling circuit assembly and synaptic wiring can lead to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), where impaired social interactions and communication are core symptoms. The variability in behavioral phenotype expression is also contingent upon the role environmental factors play in defining genetic expression. Considering the prevailing clinical diagnosis of ASD, research on therapeutic targets for autism is essential. Behavioral impairments may be identified along a range of increasingly complex social tasks. Hence, the assessment of social behavior and communication is progressing towards more ethologically relevant tasks. Garnering a more accurate understanding of social processing deficits in the sensory domain may greatly contribute to the development of therapeutic targets. With that framework, studies have found a viable link between social behaviors, circuit wiring, and altered neuronal coding related to the processing of salient social stimuli. Here, the relationship between social odor processing in rodents and humans is examined in the context of health and ASD, with special consideration for how genetic expression and neuronal connectivity may regulate behavioral phenotypes.


The prophylactic use of granulocyte-colony stimulating factor during remission induction is associated with increased leukaemia-free survival of adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia: a joint analysis of five randomised trials on behalf of the EWALL.
Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) is used to prevent febrile neutropenia and support intense chemotherapy. However, its impact on long-term outcome in oncological patients including adults with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) has not been determined so far. In the current study follow-up data from individual patients recruited in five multicentre, prospective, randomised trials were pooled to perform a joint analysis. Among 347 adults and adolescents with ALL, 185 were assigned to receive prophylactically G-CSF along with induction chemotherapy while 162 patients were treated without G-CSF support. With the median follow-up of 5.3years, there was a tendency towards increased 5year probability of the overall survival for the G-CSF arm compared to the controls (32%±4% versus 23%±4%, p=.07), which reached statistical significance in a subgroup of T-ALL (51%±8% versus 29%±9%, p=.01) and among patients aged 21-40years (44%±6% versus 27%±6%, p=.03). The probability of leukaemia-free survival was 38%±4% and 24%±4% (p=.01) while the median remission duration equalled 33 and 17months (p=.007), respectively. In a multivariate analysis the prophylactic use of G-CSF was independently associated with reduced risk of relapse (hazard ratio (HR)=.64, p=.007) and treatment failure (HR=.67, p=.02). The prophylactic use of G-CSF during induction of ALL is associated with improved long-term outcome and should be recommended especially in a setting of T-ALL and in 'young adults'. Our analysis provides the first direct evidence coming from prospective trials for the impact of primary G-CSF prophylaxis on disease-free survival of oncological patients.


Class-wide REMS for extended-release and long-acting opioids: potential impact on pharmacies.
To provide an update on the recently approved class-wide risk evaluation and mitigation strategy (REMS) for extended-release (ER) and long-acting (LA) opioids and to discuss the potential impact on pharmacy practice. In mid-2011, the Food and Drug Administration notified drug manufacturers that a single, class-wide REMS would be required for ER and LA opioids. This regulation was the result of a multiyear process that incorporated input from government, drug manufacturers, medical associations, and other stakeholders. The goal of the class-wide REMS for ER/LA opioids is to reduce addiction, unintentional overdose, and death resulting from inappropriate prescribing, misuse, and abuse. To accomplish these goals, this REMS focuses on physician education on safe and appropriate prescribing and patient counseling on the risks of opioids. Although voluntary, a movement to require physician education to obtain or renew Drug Enforcement Administration licensing is occurring. Pharmacists are not included in the class-wide REMS per se. Pharmacists play an important role in overall risk reduction and are critical to the success of the class-wide REMS. Although the changing requirements for prescribing ER/LA opioids will not have a direct effect on pharmacist workflow, the pharmacist-patient interaction remains critical for overall risk reduction with this class of medication.


Mind-Mindedness and Parenting Stress: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Cohort of Mothers of 3-Month-Old Full-Term and Preterm Infants.
The preterm birth of a child is a sudden event that can disturb the overall family system and its functioning. Many studies have been conducted with the aim of exploring how and the degree to which this event affects the early mother-infant dyadic relationship and maternal well-being, with often mixed findings. The present study investigates the combined effect of preterm birth and parenting stress on mind-mindedness, a parenting dimension that captures how parents represent and treat their children as separate individuals with their own mental states and activities. A hundred and ten mothers and their three-month-old infants (preterm = 54; full-term = 56) participated in the study. Mind-mindedness was assessed by coding mothers' comments about infant's mental states during dyadic face-to-face interaction. Parenting stress was evaluated with the Parenting Stress Index Short Form questionnaire. Mothers of preterm infants reported similar levels of appropriate and non-attuned mind-related comments to mothers of full-term infants. The reported parenting stress levels were also comparable. Interestingly, only mothers of preterm infants who reported higher stress in parenting showed more non-attuned comments during the interaction. The results underline the need to address preterm birth as a complex event, going beyond group differences and considering its interplay with other risk or protective factors in shaping children's and parents' adjustments and well-being.


Identifying a Deferiprone-Resveratrol Hybrid as an Effective Lipophilic Anti-Plasmodial Agent.
Malaria i a serious health problem caused by Plasmodium spp. that can be treated by an anti-folate pyrimethamine (PYR) drug. Deferiprone (DFP) is an oral iron chelator used for the treatment of iron overload and has been recognized for its potential anti-malarial activity. Deferiprone-resveratrol hybrids (DFP-RVT) have been synthesized to present therapeutic efficacy at a level which is superior to DFP. We have focused on determining the lipophilicity, toxicity and inhibitory effects on P. falciparum growth and the iron-chelating activity of labile iron pools (LIPs) by DFP-RVT. According to our findings, DFP-RVT was more lipophilic than DFP (p < 0.05) and nontoxic to blood mononuclear cells. Potency for the inhibition of P. falciparum was PYR > DFP-RVT > DFP in the 3D7 strain (IC50 = 0.05, 16.82 and 47.67 µM, respectively) and DFP-RVT > DFP > PYR in the K1 strain (IC50 = 13.38, 42.02 and 105.61 µM, respectively). The combined treatment of DFP-RVT with PYR additionally enhanced the PYR activity in both strains. DFP-RVT dose-dependently lowered LIP levels in PRBCs and was observed to be more effective than DFP at equal concentrations. Thus, the DFP-RVT hybrid should be considered a candidate as an adjuvant anti-malarial drug through the deprivation of cellular iron.


Development of tobacco smoke-induced lung tumors in mice fed Bowman-Birk protease inhibitor concentrate (BBIC).
Male strain A/J mice were exposed, 6h a day, 5 days a week for 5 months to a mixture of 89% cigarette sidestream and 11% cigarette mainstream smoke and then allowed to recover for another 4 months in air. The animals were fed Bowman-Birk protease inhibitor concentrate (BBIC) at a concentration of 1% in AIN-93G diet either during smoke exposure, following smoke exposure or during the entire 9 months. At the end of the experiment, the incidence and multiplicity of lung tumors were determined. In a positive control experiment, strain A/J mice were injected with 3-methylcholanthrene (MCA) and fed a diet containing 1% BBIC; these animals were killed 5 months later. It was found that in the animals treated with MCA, BBIC decreased lung tumor multiplicities, whereas in the smoke exposed mice, BBIC did not modulate lung tumor development.


Initiation of impaired outer segment degradation in vivo using an antisense oligonucleotide.
This paper describes the first successful in vivo application of antisense DNA technology to induce the accumulation of photoreceptor outer segment derived debris in the retina. An antisense oligonucleotide (CatSC), which was previously demonstrated to be an effective tool to induce debris accumulation in vitro, was injected into the vitreous of pigmented and non-pigmented rats. The animals were euthanased 7 days after the injections. The number of inclusions significantly increased in the RPE layer of Long Evans and RCS-rdy + rats injected with 66 ug of CatSC to 96.2 +/- 13.6 (SD) (p < 0.0003) and 204.2 +/- 39.3 (SD) (p < 0.0001), respectively. The difference between the number of phagosome-like inclusions present in control saline, 6.6 ug of CatSC or 66 ug of sense oligonucleotide (S1) injected animals was not statistically significant. There were no abnormalities observed in the inner layers of the retina but the accumulation of phagosome-like inclusions was accompanied by disorganisation in the apices of outer segments. The large number of inclusions found in CatSC treated animals showed the characteristics of phagosomes containing stacks of undigested photoreceptor outer segment membranes which suggest that the lysosomal digestion process was halted or at least slowed down by the antisense oligonucleotide.


Consequences of migration and remittances for Mexican transnational communities.
"Our aims in this paper are to broaden explanation of remittance expenditures and to evaluate the positive contributions of remittances, return migrants, or circulating sojourners. Specifically focusing on the situation in ¿home' communities, we illustrate the multifaceted consequences of remittances and migration, emphasizing positive nonmonetary and social impacts." Data are from ethnographic research carried out in 1992-1993 in Santa Ana del Valle, Oaxaca, Mexico.


Focal articular cartilage defect treated by percutaneous radiofrequency ablation.
A 30-year-old man presented with a painful intraarticular lesion in the knee, clinically simulating osteoid osteoma. Pretherapeutic imaging disclosed a focal articular cartilage defect located in the medial femoral condyle and surrounded by extensive bone marrow edema. The defect was inaccessible for arthroscopic treatment because of its unusual posterosuperior location. Percutaneous radiofrequency ablation was then performed under computed tomography guidance, resulting in complete resolution of symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging follow-up found resolution of the bone marrow edema pattern around the lesion and growth of fat in the site of the previous lesion.


Shifting paradigms continued-the emergence and the role of nurse navigator.
Lung Cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in men and women worldwide with a 52% 5 year survival rate when localized disease is discovered. A disheartening factor is that only 15% of lung cancer is detected at this early stage. Prompt treatment for the patient depends on diagnosis and staging. The thoracic/pulmonary oncology nurse navigator (ONN) plays a pivotal role in a rapid diagnostic and treatment pathway facilitating timely access to care and reducing barriers to treatment for the lung cancer patient. In this review, the author provides a perspective on the history, current role, and potential future role of the ONN.


How are new drugs disseminated in Japan? Analysis using the National Database of Health Insurance Claims of Japan.
Drug lag refers to the difference in the time of a new drug's approval in different countries; the dissemination of the new drug after approval within the countries is another problem. We examined the nationwide dissemination of 11 cancer drugs approved in Japan between 2011 and 2015 using the National Database of Health Insurance Claims data. We extracted data on the number of cancer drug prescriptions from 47 prefectures and associated demographic information, such as age and sex. Eight diabetes drugs were also examined for comparison. We observed a lag between the marketing approval date of the drugs and their first use. To further explore the rise and pattern of each drug's dissemination, we analyzed the trend of the cumulative number and total of new prescriptions for each prefecture. The results showed that the first month of new cancer drug prescriptions varied across prefectures. On average, they lagged by up to 2 months in the slowest prefectures, whereas the variation was almost nonexistent for diabetes drugs. The patterns of dissemination varied more among cancer drugs across the seven Japanese geographical regions. After the initial prescription, the number of prescriptions showed a steep rise for most cancer drugs, whereas the increase was gradual for diabetes drugs. In conclusion, the dissemination of cancer drugs had a greater lag time than that of diabetes drugs. Further research is needed to explore the causative factors to ensure that all effective drugs are equally accessible for those who need them.


[Determination for optimal ozone dose in O3-BAC].
The ozonation can increase biodegradability of water and the biofilter after ozonation can increase biostability of water. The result shows that with different doses of ozone between 2 and 8 mg/L, ozonation can increase AOC-P17, AOC-NOX and BDOC by 20.9%-85.5%, 42.1%-158.2% and 21.4%-84.4%, respectively. The optimum ozone dose for maximum AOC and BDOC formation is 3 mg/L. In the test, the AOC of effluent from BAC is lower than 50 microg/L (acetate-C). The AOC concentration is between 35.9 and 46.6 microg/L (acetate-C), and the effluent belongs to biostability.


Measuring the similarity of target volume delineations independent of the number of observers.
The variability of target delineations is a topic of interest in radiotherapy. The similarity of delineations is often quantified by use of a conformity index (CI) defined as the ratio of common to encompassing volume. Several forms of CI are in use, but no consensus exists on how to calculate the CI for more than two delineations. This study proposes a generalization of the CI applicable to any number of delineations. The generalization of the CI was developed, unbiased with respect to the number of delineations. Numerical values were calculated for clinical and theoretical cases, and differences with other forms of CI were considered. A simple expression could be derived, applicable to any number of delineations, and is equivalent to the known CI for two delineations. The use of this index is advised, although another frequently used index obtained from averaging the CI between all possible pairs of delineations results in minor differences. The use of the third generalization for the CI which is based upon the volume common to all delineations shows a clear dependence upon the number of delineations and is discouraged.


A Simple Instrument Suite for Characterizing Habitability and Weathering: The Modern Aqueous Habitat Reconnaissance Suite (MAHRS).
The shallow subsurface of Mars is extremely interesting as a possible microbial habitat because it becomes temporarily wet, it is shielded from radiation, and mixing by aeolian processes could provide the sources of energy and nutrients necessary for sustaining microbial life in it. The Modern Aqueous Habitat Reconnaissance Suite (MAHRS) was developed primarily to search for potentially habitable environments in the shallow subsurface of Mars and to study weathering, but it can also be used to search for potentially habitable environments in the shallow subsurface of other planetary bodies such as the Icy Worlds. MAHRS includes an instrument developed to measure regolith wetness and search for brine in the shallow subsurface of Mars, where it is most likely to be found. The detection of brine can aid in our understanding not only of habitability but also of geochemistry and aqueous weathering processes. Besides the regolith wetness sensor, MAHRS includes an electric field sensor, an optical microscope, and a radiometer developed to characterize the near-surface environment and study mixing by aeolian processes. MAHRS was designed to aid in the selection of optimum areas for sample collection for return to Earth.


Group visits in diabetes care: a systematic review.
This review appraised research evidence on the effectiveness of group visits for persons with diabetes. The group visit approach included both education and medical management of the patient, and this review focuses on the implications for the certified diabetes educator (CDE) as part of the group visit provider team. A search of a comprehensive list of databases produced 395 articles related to group visits, group education, and primary care of patients with diabetes. Using specific inclusion criteria, 12 articles were included in the review. Four review articles examined a total of 75 studies, and 8 additional original research articles analyzed outcomes related to group visits in the care of patients with diabetes. Current models for diabetes focused group visits that incorporate both group education and a health provider office visit in lieu of the traditional brief office visit failed to demonstrate consistent statistical improvement in A1C, BP, or lipids. There is evidence that group visits may reduce costs, some physiological outcomes may be improved, and patient and clinician satisfaction may be enhanced. The diabetes focused group visit model needs further testing by health care teams in a variety of settings including private primary care and rural practices.


[Epidemiology of prostate cancer].
Since a number of years, prostate cancer has been the most frequent cancer site among men in Germany and has replaced lung cancer as the leading position. Among the most frequent cancer sites, it is the one with the lowest available knowledge about etiology. Smoking and alcohol apparently do not play a role. Regarding food intake, indications exist for a protective association to tomatoes or lycopene consumption and a protective association was also seen with high physical activity, while risk seems to be elevated in obese men. Associations to hormonal factors have been observed and are under consideration. Trials with potential chemopreventive agents have been unsuccessful so far. For early detection, digital rectal examination has been part of the German statutory early detection program" from the very beginning in 1971 and the test for prostate specific antigen (PSA) is being used in the framework of the so-called individual health services, both without scientific evidence of effectiveness. The available data show that the progression of prostate cancer to the leading male cancer site was chiefly driven by the unstructured introduction of the PSA test as a screening tool. Cynically addressed, the figures indicate that the most efficient known preventive intervention was not to attend screening. This delicate situation should, however, not discourage from further examinations of prostate cancer screening. Recent results including the European randomized prostate cancer screening study (ERSPC) indicated that intelligently structured screening, possibly even using the PSA test, might be effective. Before routine application the novel approaches also have to be scrutinized in a research setting.


Centrocestus formosanus (Trematoda: Heterophyidae) in Melanoides tuberculata (Gastropoda: Thiaridae) from Vila do Abraão, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Pleurolophocercous cercariae found in the invasive gastropod Melanoides tuberculata (Müller, 1774) collected in a stream of the Vila do Abraão, Ilha Grande, Angra dos Reis, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil were used for experimental infection that enabled the identification of the heterophyid trematode Centrocestus formosanus (Nishigori, 1924). The parasite has been found in the locality since 2007, after two years of the introduction of M. tuberculata. Recently, from a sample of 483 specimens collected in June 2013, 101 (21%) were found infected with parasite. The potential environmental impacts caused by the parasite occurrence could be underestimated in the country, and actions to monitor and control both the parasite and the mollusk are necessary.


The influence of walking speed on gait parameters in healthy people and in patients with osteoarthritis.
It is difficult to identify objective parameters for assessing the joint function when evaluating the outcome of orthopaedic procedures, especially endoprosthetic replacement. Spatial and temporal parameters of gait have clinical relevance in the assessment of motor pathologies, particularly in orthopaedics. However, the influence of gait speed on these biomechanical parameters has been difficult to be taken into consideration so far. The objective of the present study was to analyse the impact of gait speed on gait parameters and to set a standard walking speed for patients with osteoarthritis by means of a special treadmill control mechanism. The second objective is to compare the gait patterns in patients with unilateral osteoarthritis of the hip joint or of the knee joint to the gait pattern of healthy control subjects. A total of 20 patients with severe unilateral osteoarthritis of the hip, 20 patients with severe unilateral osteoarthritis of the knee and 20 healthy elderly subjects without any history of lower extremity joint pathology were investigated at four different gait speeds. The gait analysis equipment used consisted of an infinitely adjustable force-instrumented treadmill and an ultrasound-based motion analyser system with electromyography. Our data suggest that most of the biomechanical parameters depend on gait speed. The highest gait speed that all our patients with severe osteoarthritis were suitable with, without pain and loss of coordination, was 2.00 km/h. Our findings indicate that the changes in gait parameters may occur in patients with unilateral osteoarthritis of the hip joint or the knee joint compared to the gait pattern of healthy control subjects. Hip joint or knee joint degeneration was compensated for in part by the pelvis and other joints in the lower limb. Reduced motion of the hip joint or knee joint leads to an increased pelvic motion, which should affect the natural mobility of the lumbar spine and cause pain in the lumbar region of the spine because of their kinematic interaction.


Probing the side chain tolerance for inhibitors of the CD95/PLCγ1 interaction.
Proceeding our effort to study protein-protein interaction between the death receptor CD95 and phospholipase PLCγ1, we present in the current work chameleon-like traits of peptidomimetic inhibitors. Minute analysis of the interaction suggests that most of the binding energy relies on van der Waals contacts rather than more specific features, such as hydrogen bonds or salt bridges. The two most important positions of the peptoid for its interaction with PLCγ1 (Arg184 and Arg187) were modified to test this hypothesis. While Arg184 proves to be exchangeable for Trp, with no alteration in affinity, the nature of the amino acid replacing Arg187 is more dependent on its positive charge. However, affinity can be partially recovered by increasing van der Waals interactions. Overall, this study shows that for both positions, a subtle balance exists between hydrophobicity, surface contacts and affinity for CD95/PLCγ1, and provides information for the generation of new therapeutic compounds toward this druggable target.


Sequence data to settle the taxonomic position of bean common mosaic virus and blackeye cowpea mosaic virus isolates.
The nucleotide sequences of the coat protein genes and 3' non-translated regions (3'-NTRs) of three isolates of bean common mosaic virus (NL1, NL3 and NY15) and one isolate of blackeye cowpea mosaic virus (W) were determined. Comparison of these sequences revealed that the coat proteins of NL1, NY15 and W were identical in size (287 amino acids) and exhibited an overall sequence similarity (94 to 97%), and 84 to 98% in their N-terminal regions. Furthermore, their 3'-NTRs were very similar in length [253 to 256 nucleotides (nt)] and sequence (93 to 96% similarity). In contrast, the coat protein of NL3 had only 261 amino acids and showed 87 to 89% similarity with NL1, NY15 and W whereas its N-terminal region revealed only 46 to 61% similarity. The 3'-NTR of NL3 also displayed appreciable differences, both in length (240 nt) and sequence (56 to 63% similarity). These results, in combination with earlier serological findings, justify the conclusion that NL1, NY15 and W should be considered strains of the same virus, i.e. bean common mosaic virus, and that NL3 is a strain of a different potyvirus for which the name 'bean black root virus' is proposed.


Analysis and Modeling of Anatomical Changes of the Anterior Segment of the Eye After Cataract Surgery with Consideration of Different Phenotypes of Eye Structure.
To study the relationship between phacoemulsification-related changes and the baseline parameters of the anterior chamber. Military Institute of Medicine, Warsaw, Medical University of Lublin, Medical University of Bialystok. The study included 228 patients. Anterior chamber depth (ACD), trabecular-iris angle (TIA), central lens thickness (CLT) and axial length of the eye (AXL) were determined prior to and 6 months after surgery. These measurements were used to calculate the ACD(index) describing the degree of postoperative changes in the anterior chamber. K-means clustering, multiple regression and neural networks were used for the analysis. Cataract surgery was reflected by changes in ACD and TIA. The character of changes was described by ACD(index) (p < 0.05). Mean ACD0 was 2.51 ± 0.45 mm and increased to 3.84 ± 0.35 mm (p < 0.05), whereas mean TIA0 was 22.84 ± 7.43° and increased to 30.97 ± 7.99° (p < 0.05). ΔACD and ΔTIA were determined on the basis of baseline parameters defined by ACD(index), characterizing the structural type of the eye. The variability of ACD(index) explained 42.65% of variance in ΔACD and ΔTIA. The quality of network for validation and test samples was from 0.72 to 0.83. Cataract surgery-related changes in ACD and TIA are determined by the type of the eye. Although the linear model of the relationship between baseline parameters of the eye and their postoperative changes is correct, it does not explain the degree of the latter phenomenon. Preoperative consideration of other parameters characterizing anatomical relationships of the eye would enable the prediction of phacoemulsification-related changes in the anterior segment.


[Benign prostatic hyperplasia treatment: Surgical alternatives to transurethral resection of the prostate].
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is one of the most common diseases in ageing men and the most common cause of lower urinary tract symptoms. The gold standard of surgical treatments for benign prostatic hyperplasia for decades has been transurethral resection of the prostate. New minimally invasive techniques have been developed with the aim of reducing morbidity or resecting large prostate volumes endoscopically. In this article, we summarize the different surgical alternatives to transurethral resection of the prostate.


Approach and withdrawal motivation in schizophrenia: an examination of frontal brain asymmetric activity.
Although motivational disturbances are common in schizophrenia, their neurophysiological and psychological basis is poorly understood. This electroencephalography (EEG) study examined the well-established motivational direction model of asymmetric frontal brain activity in schizophrenia. According to this model, relative left frontal activity in the resting EEG reflects enhanced approach motivation tendencies, whereas relative right frontal activity reflects enhanced withdrawal motivation tendencies. Twenty-five schizophrenia outpatients and 25 healthy controls completed resting EEG assessments of frontal asymmetry in the alpha frequency band (8-12 Hz), as well as a self-report measure of behavioral activation and inhibition system (BIS/BAS) sensitivity. Patients showed an atypical pattern of differences from controls. On the EEG measure patients failed to show the left lateralized activity that was present in controls, suggesting diminished approach motivation. On the self-report measure, patients reported higher BIS sensitivity than controls, which is typically interpreted as heightened withdrawal motivation. EEG asymmetry scores did not significantly correlate with BIS/BAS scores or with clinical symptom ratings among patients. The overall pattern suggests a motivational disturbance in schizophrenia characterized by elements of both diminished approach and elevated withdrawal tendencies.


[HIV study of German Red Cross blood banks in Germany and Berlin].
In the HIV study of the German Red Cross blood banks the overall rate has remained constantly low, with less than two Western blot positive donors in 100,000 donors since 1987. However, the rate of HIV positivity tends to increase in male first time and in male repeat blood donors. Despite this fact, the overall rate stays constant since the number of young first time donors has decreased with increasing donations by women. Therefore the blood banks once again have to take newly intensified but also sophisticated measures to guarantee further as well a sufficient number of blood products as their HIV safety.


Analysis of glycoconjugate saccharides in organelles isolated from castor bean endosperm.
The presence of lipid- and protein-bound sugars in the major organelle fractions isolated from germinating castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) endosperm has been established. Microsomes, glyoxysomes and mitochondria were subfractionated into a membrane fraction and a fraction containing peripheral membrane and soluble matrix proteins. The membranes were further subfractionated into monosaccharide lipid, oligosaccharide lipid and lipid-free protein components. The constituent sugars present in the prepared fractions were released and identified by gas-liquid chromatography. While all derived protein fractions contained the N-acetylglucosamine and mannose typically found in the inner core region attached to asparagine residues in many glycoproteins, some differences were noted in the organellar distribution of peripheral sugars such as fucose, arabinose, and xylose.


A Catalytic SE Ar Approach to Dibenzosiloles Functionalized at Both Benzene Cores.
A general procedure for the catalytic preparation of dibenzosiloles functionalized at one or both benzene rings starting from readily available ortho-silylated biphenyls is reported. This method provides rapid access to silole building blocks substituted with chlorine atoms at both phenylene groups, thereby allowing catalytic access to directly polymerizable dibenzosiloles. Moreover, it is shown that, despite the involvement of highly electrophilic intermediates, a considerable range of Lewis-basic, for example, oxygen- and nitrogen-containing, functional groups is tolerated. The mechanism of this intramolecular electrophilic aromatic substitution (SE Ar) proceeds through a sulfur-stabilized silicon cation, generated catalytically from the hydrosilane precursor.


The constitutive activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 and 2 in periodontal ligament nerve fibers.
The extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) have been implicated in the inflammation-dependent sensitization of nociceptors. Because the periodontal ligament (PDL) contains numerous nociceptors and mechanoceptors, phosphorylation of ERK1/2 was investigated in nerve fibers of the PDL to elucidate the role of constitutive local activation of ERK1/2 in peripheral sensitization. Decalcified free-floating sections of rat molars with PDL were incubated using total (t)-ERK1/2 and phosphorylated (p)-ERK1/2 antibodies. For identification of nerve fibers in the PDL, double staining was performed using protein gene product 9.5 (PGP 9.5) with p-ERK1/2. To test whether p-ERK1/2 activated in sensory and mechanoreceptive terminals, double incubations were performed using p-ERK1/2 with calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and with calretinin. Labeled nerve fibers were quantified by the point-counting method. In cervical, midroot, and apical zones of the PDL, t-ERK1/2- and p-ERK1/2-labeled nerve fibers were found in close association with blood vessels. The p-ERK1/2-labeled free nerve fibers were often detected in cervical and apical areas of the PDL. In nerve fibers of the PDL, p-ERK1/2 was colocalized with PGP 9.5, CGRP, and calretinin. The perivascular distribution of t-ERK1/2 and p-ERK1/2 in nerve fibers in the PDL is compatible with a role for the constitutive activation of ERK1/2 in the neural regulation of blood vessels in the PDL. The colocalizations of p-ERK1/2 with CGRP and calretinin indicate that ERK1/2 is constitutively activated in a subpopulation of sensory and mechanoreceptive nerve terminals in the PDL.


[Bio-Psycho-Social Characteristics and Therapeutic Aspects of Methamphetamine-Dependent Women - Gender Specific Results of a Systematic Literature Search].
Compared to other illicit drugs Methamphetamine (MethA) is used more frequently by women than by men. Assuming the biopsychosocial etiology model, the dependency is based on several factors in which women and men differ significantly. Systematic gender-differentiated knowledge is missing until today. Based on a database research (PUBMED) the review examines biological, social and psychological as well as therapeutic aspects in MethA-dependent women. MethA-induced cognitive disturbance appear to have severer manifestations in women than in men. MethA-addicted women's lifestyle is often characterized by active and passive (sexualized) violence. They show an increased risk behavior; i. e. unprotected sexual intercourse with several partners. Their psychological comorbidities seem to be more pronounced and especially affect anxiety disorders and depressive syndromes. In women, abuse and dependence of MethA are determined by psychological as well as social factors. However, further research is needed to improve prevention, counseling and therapy.


[Indicators of lipoprotein metabolism in normolipemic men after myocardial infarct].
In some patients with ischaemic heart disease disorders of the lipoprotein metabolism were found although the plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels were not elevated. The objective of the present work was to assess parameters of the lipoprotein metabolism which could differentiate normolipidaemic probands with an increased risk of myocardial infarction. The authors examined a group of 21 men with normal values of plasma cholesterol and triglycerides who had suffered 6 months to 3 years ago from a myocardial infarction. As compared with a control group of normolipidaemic men without evidence of ischaemic heart disease, these patients had significantly lower HDL-C concentrations (-22%, p < 0.01), in particular due to a lower sub-fraction HDL,-C (-29%, p < 0.001), a higher apolipoprotein B concentration in LDL (+36%, p < 0.00) and a lower value of the cholesterol/apolipoprotein B ratio in LDL (-25%, p < 0.05). The total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL cholesterol, HDL2-cholesterol, apolipoprotein A-1 concentration and cholesterol/apolipoprotein A-1 ratio in HDL did not different significantly. The method of discrimination analysis revealed that for the differentiation of the two groups assessment of apolipoprotein B in LDL and HDL3-C are most useful. By this approach 80% of the patients in the group were correctly classified. The results of the presented work confirmed the importance of assessment of apolipoprotein B and HDL-C, incl. its sub-fractions for estimating the risk of ischaemic heart disease in normolipidaemic subjects.


Quantification of structural compliance of aged human and porcine aortic root tissues.
The structural compliance of the aortic root has a significant implication for valve procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve implantation and valve-sparing aortic root replacement. However, a detailed quantification of human aortic root structural compliance, particularly in different regions, has been incomplete. In this study, the structural properties of human aortic roots (81 ± 8.74 years, n = 10) were characterized and compared with those of porcine ones (6-9 months, n = 10) using a vessel pressure-inflation test. The test involved tracking three-dimensional deformation of the markers affixed on the different surface regions of the aortic roots, including the three sinuses: the noncoronary sinus (NCS), the left-coronary sinus (LCS), and the right-coronary sinus (RCS), and at three regions along the longitudinal direction of each sinus: the upper sinus (US), the middle sinus (MS), and the lower sinus (LS), and the ascending aorta (AA) region above the NCS. We found that tissue stiffness in physiological pressure range was similar among the three human sinuses. A variation in regional structural stiffness of human aorta was observed. In the circumferential direction, the LS regions were the stiffest in the LCS and RCS, whereas NCS had relatively uniform stiffness. In the longitudinal direction, the human AA regions were more compliant than all sinuses. There was a significant difference in tissue stiffness between human and porcine aortic tissues, suggesting that the mechanical properties of porcine tissues may not be analogous to aged human ones.


Synthesis of cancer peptide antigen-lipid A analog conjugates for synthetic vaccines.
Conjugates 6 and 7 of cancer peptide antigen with N-tetradecanoyl L-serine-beta-alanine-containing D-glucosamine derivative structurally related to lipid A as an immunoadjuvant were synthesized for the development of totally synthetic vaccines against cancers. The mitogenic activities of compounds 6 and 7 were stronger than that of lipid A analog 3.