A multi-parametric islet perifusion system within a microfluidic perifusion device.
A microfluidic islet perifusion device was developed for the assessment of dynamic insulin secretion of multiple islets and simultaneous fluorescence imaging of calcium influx and mitochondrial potential changes. The device consists of three layers: first layer contains an array of microscale wells (500 mum diameter and 150 mum depth) that help to immobilize the islets while exposed to flow and maximize the exposed surface area of the islets; the second layer contains a circular perifusion chamber (3 mm deep, 7 mm diameter); and the third layer contains an inlet-mixing channel that fans out before injection into the perifusion chamber (2 mm in width, 19 mm in length, and 500 mum in height) for optimizing the mixing efficiency prior to entering the perifusion chamber. The creation of various glucose gradients including a linear, bell shape, and square shapes also can be created in the microfluidic perifusion network and is demonstrated.


MHC/peptide binding studies indicate hierarchy of anchor residues.
MHC class I molecules present octa- or nonapeptides derived from cellular proteins. Such peptides adhere to strict rules, which are individual to each MHC allele. Synthetic peptides conforming to these rules or peptides being at variance at critical residues were assayed for binding to MHC class I molecules. The binding assay employed the peptide-induced stabilization of MHC molecules of RMA-S cells. The data indicate that most proline-free peptides conforming to the allele-specific motifs of Kb or Db bind to the respective molecules, whereas peptides missing only one of the two allele-specific anchor residues lost their capacity to stabilize class I molecules on RMA-S cells. The residues allowed at anchor positions of the Kb motif are not equal in their binding efficiency and can be ordered in a hierarchic row. Residues at nonanchor positions may also influence efficiency of peptide binding or may require deviations from the standard peptide length.


Mitotic activity in expanded human skin.
In 20 patients subjected to breast reconstruction by means of tissue expansion, a skin biopsy was obtained at the vertex of the breast before and the day after expansion. Samples were incubated in [3H]thymidine, and the number of labeled cells were counted. A statistically significant rise in the number of labeled basal and suprabasal keratinocytes was seen after expansion. The findings suggest a net gain of tissue not only by stretching but also by formation of new tissue generated by tissue expansion.


Mediation of Extracellular Polymeric Substances in Microbial Reduction of Hematite by Shewanella oneidensis MR-1.
Extracellular electron transfer (EET) plays a fundamental role in microbial reduction/oxidation of minerals. Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) surrounding the cells constitute a matrix that separates the cell's outer membrane from insoluble minerals and environmental fluid. This study investigated the effects of EPS on EET processes during microbial reduction of hematite by the iron-reducing strain Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 (MR-1). Electrochemical characterization techniques were employed to determine the influence of EPS components on the redox ability of MR-1. Cells with removed EPS exhibited approximately 30% higher hematite reduction than regular MR-1 cells, and produced a current density of 56 μA cm-2, corresponding to 3-4 fold that of regular MR-1. The superior EET of EPS-deprived cells could be attributed to direct contact between outer membrane proteins and hematite surface, as indicated by more redox peaks being detected by cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry. The significantly reduced current density of MR-1 cells treated with proteinase K and deoxyribonuclease suggests that the electron transfer capacity across the EPS layer depends mainly on the spatial distribution of specific proteins and electron shuttles. Exopolysaccharides in EPS tend to inhibit electron transfer, however they also favor the attachment of cells onto hematite surfaces. Consistently, the charge transfer resistance of cells lacking EPS was only 116.3 Ω, approximately 44 times lower than that of regular cells (5,139.1 Ω). These findings point to a negative influence of EPS on EET processes for microbial reduction/oxidation of minerals.


Tracer studies on f-actin fluctuations.
We present a study on the fluctuations of semiflexible actin filaments using fluorescence videomicroscopy, focusing on the end-to-end fluctuations of single filaments. In order to specifically measure the position of the polymer's ends, we developed a novel noninvasive method that consists of annealing short end tags to the filaments. This allows us to probe polymer fluctuations to a very high accuracy. We compared the distribution of the end-to-end distance with recent theoretical results, and found excellent agreement. We also studied the dynamics of the mean-square end-to-end distance deltaR2(t) and orientation of the ends, deltaTheta(2)(t), finding power laws t(3/4) and t(1/4), respectively. Scaling behavior for deltaR2(t) is observed over several decades in relaxation time in agreement with theoretical results.


Temperature regulation in the unrestrained rabbit during exposure to 600 MHz radiofrequency radiation.
Six male New Zealand white rabbits were individually exposed to 600 MHz radiofrequency (RF) radiation for 90 min in a waveguide exposure system at an ambient temperature (Ta) of 20 or 30 degrees C. Immediately after exposure, the rabbit was removed from the exposure chamber and its colonic and ear skin temperatures were quickly measured. The whole-body specific absorption rate (SAR) required to increase colonic and ear skin temperature was determined. At a Ta of 20 degrees C the threshold SAR for elevating colonic and ear skin temperature was 0.64 and 0.26 W/kg, respectively. At a Ta of 30 degrees C the threshold SARs were slightly less than at 20 degrees C, with values of 0.26 W/kg for elevating colonic temperature and 0.19 W/kg for elevating ear skin temperature. The relationship between heat load and elevation in deep body temperature shown in this study at 600 MHz is similar to past studies which employed much higher frequencies of RF radiation (2450-2884 MHz). On the other hand, comparison of these data with studies on exercise-induced heat production and thermoregulation in the rabbit suggest that the relationship between heat gain and elevation in body temperature in exercise and from exposure to RF radiation may differ considerably. When combined with other studies, it was shown that the logarithm of the SAR required for a 1.0 degree C elevation in deep body temperature of the rabbit, rat, hamster, and mouse was inversely related to the logarithm of body mass. The results of this study are consistent with the conclusion that body mass strongly influences thermoregulatory sensitivity of the aforementioned laboratory mammals during exposure to RF radiation.


Association of a Specific Algal Group with Methylmercury Accumulation in Periphyton of a Tropical High-Altitude Andean Lake.
Periphyton relevance for methylmercury (MeHg) production and accumulation are now well known in aquatic ecosystems. Sulfate-reducing bacteria and other microbial groups were identified as the main MeHg producers, but the effect of periphyton algae on the accumulation and transfer of MeHg to the food web remains little studied. Here we investigated the role of specific groups of algae on MeHg accumulation in the periphyton of Schoenoplectus californicus ssp. (Totora) and Myriophyllum sp. in Uru Uru, a tropical high-altitude Bolivian lake with substantial fishing and mining activities accruing around it. MeHg concentrations were most strongly related to the cell abundance of the Chlorophyte genus Oedogonium (r 2 = 0.783, p = 0.0126) and to no other specific genus despite the presence of other 34 genera identified. MeHg was also related to total chlorophyll-a (total algae) (r 2 = 0.675, p = 0.0459), but relations were more significant with chlorophyte cell numbers, chlorophyll-b (chlorophytes), and chlorophyll-c (diatoms and dinoflagellates) (r 2 = 0.72, p = 0.028, r 2 = 0.744, p = 0.0214, and r 2 = 0.766, p = 0.0161 respectively). However, Oedogonium explains most variability of chlorophytes and chlorophyll-c (r 2 = 0.856, p = < 0.001 and r 2 = 0.619, p = 0.002, respectively), suggesting it is the most influential group for MeHg accumulation and periphyton algae composition at this particular location and given time.


Dendritic cells transfected with lentiviral vector-encoding hTERT peptide augment antitumor T cell response in vitro.
HIV-1 derived lentiviral vectors (LVs) have emerged as a powerful tool for gene delivery. hTERT is an ideal tumor-associated antigen with which to develop a potential dendritic cell (DC) vaccine. The purpose of this study was to construct a recombinant lentivirus vector of the hTERT peptide and to determine the hTERT-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte response elicited by DCs transfected with hTERT-lentivirus vectors in vitro. LVs encoding the hTERT peptide were constructed, DCs from cord blood were prepared, their morphology was observed and phenotype was analyzed by flow cytometry. Lenti-hTERT was transfected into DCs to construct the DC vaccines. T lymphocytes stimulated with DC vaccines and HepG2 cells (hTERT+) or 293T cells (hTERT-) were co-cultured for 24 h, respectively. The ability to stimulate proliferation of allogeneic T lymphocytes and the killing activity of CTLs activated by these DCs were determined using the MTT method. According to our results, the recombinant vector lenti-hTERT and lenti-hTERT-DC vaccine were successfully constructed. The stimulatory capacity of the lenti-hTERT DCs in the allogeneic T lymphocyte reaction was markedly enhanced compared with the DC control group (P<0.01). Inhibition rates in HepG2 cells of CTLs stimulated with lenti-hTERT-DCs (CTLT) were significantly higher than CTLs stimulated with the control DC group (CTLN) (P<0.01). Inhibition rates in 293T cells of CTLT and CTLN were low and there was no difference between the different DC groups (P>0.05). DCs transfected with the hTERT peptide were capable of eliciting a stronger hTERT-specific CTL response in vitro. Our data indicate that lenti-hTERT-DCs may potentially be used as an effective approach for cancer immunotherapy.


Bacteriospermia - A formidable player in male subfertility.
Bacterial colonization of male reproductive tissues, cells, and fluids, and the subsequent impact of bacteria on the sperm architecture, activity, and fertilizing potential, has recently gained increased attention from the medical and scientific community. Current evidence strongly emphasizes the fact that the presence of bacteria in semen may have dire consequences on the resulting male fertility. Nevertheless, the molecular basis underlying bacteriospermia-associated suboptimal semen quality is sophisticated, multifactorial, and still needs further understanding. Bacterial adhesion and subsequent sperm agglutination and immobilization represent the most direct pathway of sperm-bacterial interactions. Furthermore, the release of bacterial toxins and leukocytic infiltration, associated with a massive outburst of reactive oxygen species, have been repeatedly associated with sperm dysfunction in bacteria-infested semen. This review serves as a summary of the present knowledge on bacteriospermia-associated male subfertility. Furthermore, we strived to outline the currently available methods for assessing bacterial profiles in semen and to outline the most promising strategies for the prevention and/or management of bacteriospermia in practice.


Replacement of the left-side valves of an implanted total artificial heart.
The MagScrew total artificial heart (TAH) is under development. Despite its anticipated durability and reliability, the possibility of a bioprosthetic valve malfunction exists. As a result, the potential for valve replacement surgery, instead of device replacement, would be desirable after a TAH implant. In two of our 90-day animal experiments, we successfully replaced the left-side valves through a left thoracotomy opposite to the right-sided incision site for the initial TAH implant. The results of these cases suggest that the left-side valves could also be replaced through a left thoracotomy approach in humans. To confirm the ability to access the left-side valves in humans, four human cadaver studies were performed with the use of a mock pump designed for human application. This report describes the operative techniques for left-side valve replacement in animals and discusses the advantages of a left thoracotomy in clinical situations, based on results from the human cadaver studies.


Cardiac Structure and Function and Diabetes-Related Risk of Death or Heart Failure in Older Adults.
Background Whether cardiac structure and function abnormalities associated with dysglycemia are sufficient to explain the increased risk of death or heart failure (HF) remains unclear. Methods and Results We analyzed 6059 participants (mean age, 75±5 years; 58% women; and 22% Black individuals) who attended the ARIC (Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities) study visit 5 examination (2011-2013). Participants were categorized as no diabetes, pre-diabetes, and diabetes (on the basis of medical history and glycated hemoglobin values). We assessed whether diabetes modified the association between echocardiographic measures of cardiac structure and function and the composite of all-cause death or HF hospitalization and then estimated the extent to which the increased risk of the composite outcome associated with diabetes was explained by cardiac structure and function. Diabetes was prevalent in 33.5% of the subjects. Death or HF occurred in 1111 (18%) at a rate of 3.6 per 100 person-years. Both measures of cardiac structure and function and diabetes status were significantly associated with worse prognosis after accounting for clinical confounders. While diabetes was consistently associated with a higher risk of events, it did not significantly modify the association between cardiac abnormalities and the risk of death or HF, except for subjects with higher left atrial volume who showed higher relative risk of events (P for interaction <0.001). Measures of cardiac structure and function accounted for ≈16% of the increased risk of death or HF associated with diabetes. Similar results were observed analyzing subjects without prevalent heart disease. Conclusions In a biracial cohort of older adults, the increased risk of events associated with diabetes was partially explained by cardiac structure and function abnormalities.


Can science fiction engagement predict identification with all humanity? Testing a moderated mediation model.
Identification with all humanity (IWAH) is viewed as a critical construct that facilitates global solidarity. However, its origins have rarely been explored in previous literature, and no study has yet investigated the role of pop-culture in cultivating IWAH. To address this gap, this study initially focuses on science fiction (sci-fi), a specific pop-culture genre with worldwide audiences, and examines its effect on IWAH. It hypothesized a direct association between sci-fi engagement and IWAH from the narrative persuasion approach, and an indirect association via abstract construal based on the cognitive-literary approach. Moreover, the moderating role of actively open-minded thinking (AOT) in the direct and indirect association was also assessed. Results were obtained through a cross-sectional survey conducted in China (n = 570) and showed that sci-fi engagement was positively associated with IWAH; this association was also partially mediated by abstract construal. Interestingly, and inconsistent with our hypotheses, AOT positively moderated the indirect effect but negatively moderated the direct effect. Theoretical and practical implications for cultivating IWAH from the media and pop-cultural perspective were discussed.


Mycophenolate mofetil in pyoderma gangrenosum.
Recently, the use of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) has expanded in dermatological practice. Three patients with PG received MMF in conjunction with prednisone and a fourth patient received MMF monotherapy daily. MMF in combination with prednisone in three of our patients and alone in our fourth patient induced healing of their ulcers. The first patient tolerated MMF apart from gastrointestinal upset, while treatment in our second patient was complicated by staphylococcal and pseudomonal sepsis. The third patient complained of palpitations and headaches.


Current Computational Approaches for the Development of Anti-HIV Inhibitors: An Overview.
Today, HIV-1 infection has become an extensive problem to public health and a greater challenge to all working researchers throughout the world. Since the beginning of HIV-1 virus, several antiviral therapeutic agents have been developed at various stages to combat HIV-1 infection. But, many of antiviral drugs are on the platform of drug resistance and toxicology issues, needs an urgent constructive investigation for the development of productive and protective therapeutics to make an improvement of individual life suffering with viral infection. As developing a novel agent is very costly, challenging and time taking route in the recent times. The review summarized about the modern approaches of computational aided drug discovery to developing a novel inhibitor within a short period of time and less cost. The outcome suggests on the premise of reported information that the computational drug discovery is a powerful technology to design a defensive and fruitful therapeutic agents to combat HIV-1 infection and recover the lifespan of suffering one. Based on survey of the reported information, we concluded that the current computational approaches is highly supportive in the progress of drug discovery and controlling the viral infection.


Energy transfer in Rayleigh-Taylor instability.
The spatial structure and energy budget for Rayleigh-Taylor instability are examined using results from a 512 x 512 x 2040 point direct numerical simulation. The outer-scale Reynolds number of the flow follows a rough t(3) power law and reaches a final value of about 5500. Taylor microscales and Reynolds numbers are plotted to characterize anisotropy in the flow and document progress towards the mixing transition. A mixing parameter is defined which characterizes the relative rates of entrainment and mixing in the flow. The spectrum of each term in the kinetic energy equation is plotted, at regular time intervals, as a function of the inhomogeneous direction and the two-dimensional wave number for the homogeneous directions. The energy spectrum manifests the beginning of an inertial range by the latter stages of the simulation. The production and dissipation spectra become increasingly opposite and separate in wave space as the flow evolves. The transfer spectrum depends strongly on the inhomogeneous direction, with the net transfer being from large to small scales. Energy transfer at the bubble/spike fronts is strictly positive. Extensive cancellation occurs between the pressure and advection terms. The dilatation term produces negligible energy transfer, but its overall effect is to move energy from high to low density regions.


Tear analysis in clinically isolated syndrome as new multiple sclerosis criterion.
In clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), the detection of oligoclonal bands (OCBs) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is critical for space dissemination validation when magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) diagnostic criteria are not fulfilled. However, lumbar puncture for CSF collection is considered relatively invasive. Previous studies have demonstrated applicability of OCB detection in tears to the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). The objective of the present study was to assess concordance between OCB detection in tears and in CSF. We have prospectively included patients with CIS and compared results of CSF and tear OCB detection by isoelectric focusing (IEF). Tears were collected using a Schirmer strip. We included 82 patients. For 69 of them, samples were analysable. OCBs were detected in CSF for 63.8% and in tears for 42% of patients. All patients with tear OCBs had CSF OCBs. We suggest that tear OCB detection may replace CSF OCB detection as a diagnostic tool in patients with CIS. This would circumvent the practice of invasive lumbar punctures currently used in MS diagnosis.


Protective activity ethanol extract of the fruits of Illicium verum against atherogenesis in apolipoprotein E knockout mice.
Illicium verum Hook. fil. Illiciaceae (Illicium v.) has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for treating many inflammatory diseases, including skin inflammation and rheumatism. We investigated its use as a preventive agent against inflammatory and vascular diseases in a murine model of atherosclerosis using apolipoprotein E-knockout (ApoE(-/-)) mice fed on a high-fat diet (HFD). We investigated the effect of Illicium v. on cytotoxicity, NF-κB activity, and adhesion molecule expression in TNF-α--stimulated HASMCs (Human Aortic smooth muscle cells). ApoE(-/-)mice, fed a HFD and treated daily for 12 weeks by oral administration of either Illicium v. (100 or 200 mg/kg) or atorvastatin (10 mg/kg), were evaluated for atherosclerotic lesions and inflammatory responses by performing Oil red O and iNOS staining, respectively. Expression of inflammatory cytokines (i.e., NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, COX, IκB-α, Iκκ-α/β) and adhesion molecules in the aorta were measured by western blot analysis. In TNF-α-stimulated HASMCs, Illicium v. treatment decreased NF-κB transcriptional activity, and NF-κB protein levels were reduced in a dose-dependent manner over a range of 10-100 μg/mL Illicium v. Also, Illicium v. attenuated the expression of adhesion molecules that are responsible for inflammation in these cells. In animal experiments, treatment with Illicium v. or atorvastatin counteracted the characteristic changes in body weight, blood pressure, and lipid levels seen in HFD-fed ApoE(-/-) mice. In addition, Illicium v. treatment reduced aortic atherosclerotic plaque lesions and the immunoreactivity of iNOS activation. The aortic expression of inflammatory adhesion molecules and cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, NF-κB, COX, IκB-α, Iκκ-α/β), which is characteristic of HFD-fed ApoE(-/-) mice, was attenuated by 12-week treatment with daily oral administration of Illicium v. or atorvastatin, and the most potent effect was seen with the herbal tincture. The beneficial effects of Illicium v. are consistent with a significant decrease in the iNOS-mediated inflammatory response, resulting in reduction of inflammation-associated gene expression. Treatment with Illicium v. may be the basis of a novel therapeutic strategy for hyperlipidemia-atherosclerosis.


From the Gut to the Liver: Another Organ to Watch in FAP Patients.
We report a rare association of hepatocellular carcinoma with familial adenomatous polyposis in a young patient and its clinical significance. A 28-year-old female with a past medical history of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and subsequent colonic adenocarcinoma underwent total colectomy. She later presented with intermittent right upper quadrant pain and nausea of four months' duration. MRI of the abdomen revealed multiple liver lesions, the largest 8.5 cm in diameter, with radiologic features suggestive of hepatocellular carcinoma. A CT-guided liver biopsy demonstrated well-differentiated HCC which was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. In patients with a history of FAP, a heightened awareness of the possibility of concurrent or subsequent HCC is warranted.


Potential of Nanoparticles Integrated with Antibacterial Properties in Preventing Biofilm and Antibiotic Resistance.
Nanotechnology has become an emerging technology in the medical field and is widely applicable for various clinical applications. The potential use of nanoparticles as antimicrobial agents is greatly explored and taken into consideration as alternative methods to overcome the challenges faced by healthcare workers and patients in preventing infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms. Among microorganisms, bacterial infections remain a major hurdle and are responsible for high morbidity and mortality globally, especially involving those with medical conditions and elderly populations. Over time, these groups are more vulnerable to developing resistance to antibiotics, as bacterial biofilms are difficult to destroy or eliminate via antibiotics; thus, treatment becomes unsuccessful or ineffective. Mostly, bacterial biofilms and other microbes can be found on medical devices and wounds where they disperse their contents which cause infections. To inhibit biofilm formations and overcome antibiotic resistance, antimicrobial-loaded nanoparticles alone or combined with other substances could enhance the bactericidal activity of nanomaterials. This includes killing the pathogens effectively without harming other cells or causing any adverse effects to living cells. This review summarises the mechanisms of actions employed by the different types of nanoparticles which counteract infectious agents in reducing biofilm formation and improve antibiotic therapy for clinical usage.


Choanal atresia associated with maternal hyperthyroidism treated with methimazole: a case-control study.
Thyrotoxicosis affects 0.2% of pregnant women and antithyroid drugs are the treatment of choice during pregnancy. Several case reports have suggested a relationship between the prenatal use of methimazole (MMI) and choanal atresia in the offspring. However, two epidemiological studies did not find an increased teratogenic risk for MMI. This multicenter case-control study compared the frequency of maternal hyperthyroidism treated with MMI during pregnancy, in children with choanal atresia (cases) and a control group randomly selected (three matched controls according to maternal age for each case). Mothers of cases (N = 61) and controls (N = 183) were interviewed for socio-demographic questions, obstetrical and genetic history, and exposure during pregnancy to different agents; specifically detailed information regarding hyperthyroidism and MMI intake was obtained. Prenatal exposure to maternal hyperthyroidism treated with MMI was identified in 10/61 cases (16.4%) compared to 2/183 (1.1%) in the control group (OR = 17.75; CI95% = 3.49-121.40). Cases and controls did not differ in their parental degree of education, paternal occupation, twinning, maternal parity, and other exposures during pregnancy. Facial features in exposed cases showed some similarities. Our data suggest that prenatal exposure to maternal hyperthyroidism treated with MMI is associated with choanal atresia. In addition, based on our cases and a critical literature review, we propose that the mother's disease might be the causal factor and not the MMI treatment.


Emission characteristics of diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) from building materials determined using a passive flux sampler and micro-chamber.
Emission rates of diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) from building materials, such as vinyl floorings and wall paper, determined using a passive flux sampler (PFS) were constant over the week-long measurement period. Emission rates for vinyl floorings and wallpaper were linearly correlated to the inverse of diffusion distance, which corresponds to the internal depth of the PFS. Surface-air DEHP concentrations (y0) were estimated as 1.3-2.3 μg/m3 for materials having a boundary layer molecular diffusion rate-limiting step. The partition coefficient (Kmaterial-air) was estimated as 3.3-7.5 × 1010 for these materials. Additionally, emission rates of DEHP from same building materials determined using a micro-chamber were 4.5-6.1 μg/m2/h. Mass transfer coefficients in the micro-chamber (hm) were estimated by comparing the results using the PFS and micro-chamber, and these were 1.1-1.2 × 10-3 and 8.1 × 10-4 m/s for vinyl floorings (smooth surface) and wallpaper (rough surface), respectively. The thickness of boundary layer on the surface of building materials in the micro-chamber were estimated to be 2.5-2.6 and 3.7 mm for vinyl floorings and wallpaper, respectively.


A malariometric survey in a rural community in the Muheza district, Tanzania: age profiles in the development of humoral immune responses.
A malariometric survey was carried out in a rural community situated in a malaria holoendemic endemic area of Tanzania. A random sample (n = 228) of different age groups was taken to elucidate the association between anti-Pf155/RESA and anti-Pf332 antibody responses and classical malaria indices. Parasitaemia, fever, splenomegaly, haematocrit and antimalarial consumption were assessed. Antibody responses against Pf155/RESA and Pf332 peptides were determined by ELISA. The age profiles of parasite density, splenomegaly, fever, haematocrit values and prevalence of antibody responses indicated intensive malaria exposure and the highest impact of malaria in small children. Forty-five percent of the study population had detectable chloroquine and desethyl-chloroquine blood levels, and the highest frequency and concentrations were recorded in the 12-23 months old. There was no significant association between the presence of drug and parasite density in the different age groups, although in the < 15 years old there was lower parasite prevalence among the children positive for drug in their blood (P < 0.05). High prevalence of antibody responses to all antigens was observed already at an early age, but the mean anti-Pf155/RESA and anti-Pf332 antibody levels increased significantly only in the adult group (P < 0.01). Significantly lower mean parasite densities were observed in high responders to Pf155/RESA and Pf332 peptides for the > or = 10 years old. For the 1-9 years, a similar difference was only observed in the high responders to Pf332. For the whole material, anti-Pf155/RESA and anti-Pf332 antibody levels correlated positively with age. When the effect of age was allowed for in analysing the relationship between parasite density and antibody level against the different antigens, a significant negative correlation was found only with regard to Pf332 in the > = 10 years age group. These results suggest that anti-Pf332 antibodies appear to be a better indicator for antiparasitic immunity, but both antigens are important for immune protection.


Evaluation of the association between postural control and sagittal curvature of the spine.
Balance is key to controlling body posture. Balance is typically assessed by measures of the body's vertical orientation, obtained by balancing out the forces acting on different body segments. The ability to maintain balance is assessed by evaluating centre of pressure (CoP) displacement; such assessments are typically used to evaluate responses to a treatment process. This study evaluated the efficiency of compensatory reactions in children according to the extent of thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis. The study enrolled 312 children aged 8‒12 years, including 211 patients with postural disorders: thoracic kyphosis outside the 47‒50-degree range and lordosis outside the 38‒42-degree range (study group). A control group was also recruited and comprised 101 children without postural disorders. The DIERS formetric 4D system was used to assess posture and CoP displacement. Children in the study group showed a significantly greater range of CoP displacement than children in the control group. The kyphosis angle correlated with the maximum CoP displacement in the coronal plane and the maximum CoP displacement in the sagittal plane during gait. The kyphosis angle also correlated with the maximum CoP displacement back in the static test. The size of the lordosis angle correlated with the maximum displacement of CoP in the coronary plane during gait, and with the maximum displacement of CoP toward the left, forward, and backward in the static test. The correlation coefficient of the lordosis angle with displacement of the CoP in the sagittal plane was 0.999. We found an association between kyphosis and lordosis and the amplitude of CoP displacement, which may reflect the postural control system's response to biomechanical destabilisation caused by changes in kyphosis and lordosis.The lordosis angle correlation strength for displacement of CoP in sagittal plane is 0.999 and adopts a linear value.


Acceptability and Adequacy of a Non-endoscopic Cell Collection Device for Diagnosis of Barrett's Esophagus: Lessons Learned.
Endoscopic screening for Barrett's esophagus (BE) is common, costly, and underperformed in at-risk people. A non-endoscopic cell collection device can be used to collect esophageal cells, enabling BE screening. This study assessed the acceptability and adequacy of a commercial non-endoscopic cell collection device in a US population. Six sites enrolled patients with confirmed BE or heartburn/regurgitation for ≥ 6 months. Patients underwent administration of the device, consisting of a sponge encapsulated in a capsule. The capsule dwelled in the stomach for 7.5 min and was retracted via an attached suture. An adequate sample was ≥ 1 columnar cell by H&E staining. Sample quality was rated using a 0-5 scale, with 0 = no columnar cells and 5 = plentiful groups. Trefoil Factor 3 (TFF3) staining was performed. Accuracy was assessed using esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD)/biopsy as the gold standard. Of 191 patients, 99.5% successfully swallowed the device. Overall sample adequacy was 91% (171/188), with 84% (158/188) high quality. The detachment rate was 2/190 (1%). Overall sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the assay with TFF3 staining were 76%, 77%, and 76%. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for ≥ 3 cm BE were 86%, 77%, and 82%. Asked if willing to repeat the procedure, 93% would, and 65% indicated a preference for the device over EGD. This study demonstrated a high rate of sample adequacy and promising acceptability of this non-endoscopic sampling device in a US population. Diagnostic characteristics suggest that non-endoscopic assessment of BE deserves further development as an alternative to endoscopy.


Community-Based Organization Adaptations to the Changing HIV Prevention and Care Landscape in the Southern United States.
Community-based organizations (CBOs) provide HIV prevention services throughout the United States, including the South where HIV/AIDS burden is high. We assessed Southern CBO response to changes in the HIV prevention landscape, including the National HIV/AIDS Strategy, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) High Impact Prevention. Both strategies aim to improve outcomes for people living with or at high risk for HIV. Inductive qualitative analysis of interviews and consultations with CBOs, capacity building assistance providers, and CDC staff revealed CBOs are building clinical service capacity and cross-agency partnerships to adapt, but face inadequate or reduced funding. A holistic approach to HIV prevention and care in the South is critical, where stigma and other socio-structural factors limit health care options for persons affected by HIV. Health care organizations may benefit by partnering with CBOs because CBOs have the skillsets and community rapport to effectively improve health outcomes of persons living with HIV.


Lymphatics, lymph and lymphoid cells: an integrated immune system.
Lymphatics, lymph and lymphoid cells are still considered to be different entities and not parts of one integrated system. Surgeons working on the problems of lymphedema study lymph flow kinetics but neglect lymph humoral and cellular constituents. Immunologists study the problems of lymph cells but neglect lymph transport and chemical composition. This article describes the author's own views on the function of the lymphatics, lymph proteins and cells as one integrated immunoregulatory system. Data from own studies on the peripheral lymphatic system performed mostly in man are quoted.


[Rapidly improving acute myocarditis after a scorpion sting].
Scorpion stings are usually benign, but especially cardiovascular death has been reported due to complications. Local reactions at the site of the sting as well as organ dysfunction may be due to the effects of a systemic toxin. As a result of the toxic effects of the scorpion toxin on the cardiovascular system, hypertension, arrhythmia, myocarditis, acute heart failure, and pulmonary edema may occur. In this report, we present a 49-year-old male patient who was admitted to our hospital with acute pulmonary edema and respiratory distress following scorpion sting at the wrist. In this case, detection of diffuse left ventricular systolic dysfunction on presentation, immediate improvement with medical treatment, and increased troponin levels in the absence of critical stenosis on coronary angiography suggest the diagnosis of acute myocarditis associated with scorpion bite.


Hygiene: The Looming Achilles Heel in Endoscopy.
Since the late 1970s there have been sporadic reports of nosocomial infections linked to endoscopic procedures. Infections by multidrug-resistant organisms (MDRO) have an increasing impact on healthcare systems worldwide. Since 2010 outbreaks involving MDRO have been reported as a result of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) from the USA, France, Germany and the Netherlands. This article evaluates the recent outbreaks and developments and demonstrates a structural approach to how to prevent future infections. Current national and international guidelines were used as a basis for discussions. In some cases insufficient cleaning or drying supported the outbreak. In the majority of cases, outbreaks occurred despite the apparently appropriate reprocessing protocols being in use. Microlesions were identified on a number of endoscopes, which supported the growth of bacteria and represented a vehicle for the transmission of infectious material. National official bodies responded with warnings. Manufacturers informed their customers accordingly. Separate, purpose-designed reprocessing rooms and a sufficient number of competent staff provide the structural quality for a safe reprocessing. The process quality includes a thorough cleaning of all endoscope channels and crucial instrument components, followed by an automated and validated reprocessing procedure. Strict adherence to manufacturers' recommendations is essential. The outcome quality should be evaluated by regular audits, validation of reprocessing procedures and microbiological surveillance. If outbreaks occur, a close co-operation with official bodies and manufacturers is essential. Health care professionals and manufacturers should be aware of their responsibility to ensure patient safety. A structural approach is key in prevention of endoscopy-associated infections.


Spatially resolved temperature measurements of electrically heated carbon nanotubes.
Spatially resolved Raman spectra of individual pristine suspended carbon nanotubes are observed under electrical heating. The Raman G+ and G- bands show unequal temperature profiles. The preferential heating is more pronounced in short nanotubes (2 microm) than in long nanotubes (5 microm). These results are understood in terms of the decay and thermalization of nonequilibrium phonons, revealing the mechanism of thermal transport in these devices. The measurements also enable a direct estimate of thermal contact resistances and the spatial variation of thermal conductivity.


The history and challenge of HIV prevention.
The HIV/AIDS pandemic has become part of the contemporary global landscape. Few predicted its effect on mortality and morbidity or its devastating social and economic consequences, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Successful responses have addressed sensitive social factors surrounding HIV prevention, such as sexual behaviour, drug use, and gender equalities, countered stigma and discrimination, and mobilised affected communities; but such responses have been few and far between. Only in recent years has the international response to HIV prevention gathered momentum, mainly due to the availability of treatment with antiretroviral drugs, the recognition that the pandemic has both development and security implications, and a substantial increase in financial resources brought about by new funders and funding mechanisms. We now require an urgent and revitalised global movement for HIV prevention that supports a combination of behavioural, structural, and biomedical approaches and is based on scientifically derived evidence and the wisdom and ownership of communities.


Treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration with anti-VEGF agents: retrospective analysis of 5-year outcomes.
To evaluate the 5-year results obtained in clinical practice in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD) with anti-VEGF agents. We retrospectively analyzed all patients with nAMD who initiated anti-VEGF treatment before October 2009. We collected data regarding visual and anatomical outcomes. A total of 278 patients met the selection criteria. The mean number of intravitreal injections was 5.7 in the first year and 3.7 in the fifth year. A positive mean visual acuity variation of +3.7 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters occurred in the first year, but no significant differences relative to baseline were observed thereafter. The majority of patients (71%) maintained stable visual acuity throughout follow-up. At 5 years, mean central macular thickness remained substantially inferior to baseline (-96.6 μm), and 56% of patients maintained dry retinas. Anti-VEGF therapy leads to long-term visual stabilization in the great majority of patients.


Overexpression of basal c-fos and c-jun but not of ras oncogenes after Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus infection of glial cells.
Constitutive expression of the cellular proto-oncogenes c-fos and c-jun, and in a lesser extent ras, was demonstrated in the glioma cell line C-6 by flow cytometry analysis using specific mono and polyclonal antibodies. Basal expression of the products of the early response genes c-fos and c-jun were increased 66 and 50% when Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis virus (TMEV) infected these cells. No increase in ras transcription could be demonstrated after infection. This activation follows a kinetic reaching maximum values after 60 min and was proportional to the multiplicity of infection used. The described effect was completely abrogated by rabbit antibodies to TMEV but was not altered by normal rabbit serum. Furthermore, an intact infectious virion is needed to detect this effect. Fetal calf serum and lipopolysaccharide stimulation slightly increases c-fos and c-jun expression following a slower kinetics. Cytokine treatment (IL-1 alpha, IL-6, IFN-gamma and TNF alpha), did not induce oncogene over-expression. Therefore, this stimulation seems to be linked to the TMEV infectious process.


Tethering Flexible Polymers to Crystalline Porous Materials: A Win-Win Hybridization Approach.
Crystalline porous materials (CPMs) have been widely studied over the past few decades due to their well-defined, customizable, and porous structures. However, the limited stability and machinability restrict their particle applications. Recently, a new trend to use hybrid strategies to bridge the gap between CPMs and flexible polymers has emerged as an effective solution to tackle the above issues. Polymers can be either cross-linked within the framework or anchored to the outer surface of the materials, that endow CPMs with polymer features, such as flexibility, ductility, and machinability. Such resulting polymer-tethered CPMs (named as polyCPMs) have demonstrated improved performances in many application scopes such as membrane separation, heterogeneous catalysis and smart response. This minireview highlights state of the art for the hybridization strategies of CPMs with flexible polymers, and provide a perspective on their potential applications and future directions.


Interleukin-6 secreting human pituitary adenomas in vitro.
Interleukin-6 was found to be secreted from seven out of ten human pituitary tumours cultured in vitro. These tumours included prolactin-secreting, growth hormone-secreting and clinically non-functioning adenomas. The amount of Interleukin-6 secreted was variable from 58 to 10,000 units per ml. in medium removed after a four-day incubation under basal conditions. Four tumours secreted IL-6 in excess of 500U/ml, three of which were clinically non-functioning, but each secreted follicle stimulating hormone in vitro. This is the first report of a cytokine growth factor being released basally by human pituitary tumours.


CNS listeriosis confused with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis in a patient with a malignant insulinoma.
We describe a case of presumed listeria monocytogenes rhomboencephalitis, which was initially confused with leptomeningeal carcinomatosis in a patient with a malignant carcinoid tumor. Long-term corticosteroid treatment and immunosuppression caused by malignancy predisposed the patient to developing listeriosis. The clinical and radiologic features of this illustrative case are described. Listeriosis is an important treatable differential diagnosis in patients with malignancy presenting with neurologic signs.


Relationship between plasma and red blood cell concentrations of quinine in Brazilian children with uncomplicated Plasmodium falciparum malaria on oral therapy.
We determined the relationship between plasma and red blood cell concentrations of quinine in children with uncomplicated falciparum malaria from an endemic area of Amazonian region. Quinine was determined by high performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection. In the steady state the ratio between plasma and red blood cell quinine concentration was 1.89 +/- 1.25 ranging from 1.05 to 2.34. This result demonstrated that quinine do not concentrate in red blood cell of Brazilian children and characterize the absence of interracial difference in this relationship.


Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia with Mitral Valve Prolapse.
Clinical and investigational features of a case of congenital hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia in a young boy are described. In addition, he was found to have mitral valve prolapse, which was confirmed by echocardiography. The available literature is discussed. Such an association, though probably fortuitous has not been previously reported.


Discovery of a Pederin Family Compound in a Nonsymbiotic Bloom-Forming Cyanobacterium.
The pederin family includes a number of bioactive compounds isolated from symbiotic organisms of diverse evolutionary origin. Pederin is linked to beetle-induced dermatitis in humans, and pederin family members possess potent antitumor activity caused by selective inhibition of the eukaryotic ribosome. Their biosynthesis is accomplished by a polyketide/nonribosomal peptide synthetase machinery employing an unusual trans-acyltransferase mechanism. Here, we report a novel pederin type compound, cusperin, from the free-living cyanobacterium Cuspidothrix issatschenkoi (earlier Aphanizomenon). The chemical structure of cusperin is similar to that of nosperin recently isolated from the lichen cyanobiont Nostoc sharing the tehrahydropyran moiety and major part of the linear backbone. However, the cusperin molecule is extended by a glycine residue and lacks one hydroxyl substituent. Pederins were previously thought to be exclusive to symbiotic relationships. However, C. issatschenkoi is a nonsymbiotic planktonic organism and a frequent component of toxic water blooms. Cusperin is devoid of the cytotoxic activity reported for other pederin family members. Hence, our findings raise questions about the role of pederin analogues in cyanobacteria and broaden the knowledge of ecological distribution of this group of polyketides.


HLA-A*020115 and HLA-Cw*030203 show new synonymous mutations in exon 4.
Two novel human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I alleles, A*020115 and Cw*030203, were completely characterized by sequencing-based typing. Both present synonymous new HLA polymorphisms at exon 4. A*020115 shows a single nucleotide change regarding A*02010101 at codon 245 GCG > GCC). In contrast, Cw*030203 differs from Cw*030202 in a point mutation at codon 271 (ACC > ACT).


Targeting Microglia to Treat Degenerative Eye Diseases.
Microglia have been implicated in many degenerative eye disorders, including retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, and retinal detachment. While the exact roles of microglia in these conditions are still being discovered, evidence from animal models suggests that they can modulate the course of disease. In this review, we highlight current strategies to target microglia in the eye and their potential as treatments for both rare and common ocular disorders. These approaches include depleting microglia with chemicals or radiation, reprogramming microglia using homeostatic signals or other small molecules, and inhibiting the downstream effects of microglia such as by blocking cytokine activity or phagocytosis. Finally, we describe areas of future research needed to fully exploit the therapeutic value of microglia in eye diseases.


An endoplasmic reticulum stress regulator, Tmbim6, modulates secretory stage of mice molar.
To understand the role of endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress in mice molar development, we studied Tmbim6 that antagonizes the unfolded protein response, using Tmbim6 knockout (KO) mice and in vitro organ cultivation with knocking down using small interfering RNA. During molar development, Tmbim6 is expressed in developing tooth at E14-E16, postnatal0 (PN0), and PN6. Mineral content in Tmbim6 KO enamel was reduced while dentin was slightly increased revealing ultrastructural changes in pattern formation of both enamel and dentin. Moreover, odontoblast differentiation was altered with increased Dspp expression at PN0 followed by altered AMELX localizations at PN5. These results were confirmed by in vitro organ cultivation and showed altered Bmp signaling, proliferation, and actin rearrangement in the presumptive ameloblast and odontoblasts that followed the altered expression of differentiation and ER stress-related signaling molecules at E16.5. Overall, ER stress modulated by Tmbim6 would play important roles in patterned dental hard tissue formation in mice molar within a limited period of development.


Circulating MicroRNAs as Diagnostic Biomarkers of Clinical Cognitive Impairment: A Meta-Analysis.
Minimally invasive diagnostic biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) facilitate patient selection and cognitive progressive decline monitoring. However, the diagnostic value of circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) for early cognitive impairment and progression to dementia is currently under debate. Thus, this study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of circulating, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and exosomal miRNAs in the detection of clinical cognitive impairment in mild cognitive impairment (MCI), AD, and MCI-AD. We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP Chinese Science and Technology Journals Database (CQVIP), and Chinese Medicine Premier (Wanfang) to identify potentially eligible studies related to noncoding RNAs and cognitive dysfunction biomarkers published before November 2018. The quality assessment of the studies was performed according to the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) checklist. Meta-analysis of the literature data was performed using Stata/MP 14.0 software. The corresponding effects models were selected to calculate the summary sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios (PLR and NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and to plot the summary receiver operating characteristic curves (SROCs) and calculate the areas under the curves (AUCs). A total of 18 studies involving 729 patients with AD, 283 patients with MCI, and 15 patients with MCI-AD were pooled. The results revealed that the sensitivity and specificity of miRNAs in the diagnosis of AD were 0.78 and 0.79, respectively, and the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (AUSROC) was 0.90. The sensitivity and specificity of miRNAs in the diagnosis of MCI were 0.89 and 0.85, respectively, and the AUSROC was 0.94. The sensitivity and specificity of microRNAs in the diagnosis of MCI-AD were 0.87 and 0.84, respectively, and the AUSROC was 0.92. Our study found that miRNAs have certain diagnostic value for cognitive impairment, with high sensitivity and specificity, especially in diagnostics with multiple miRNAs and serum-based miRNA assays.


[The in vitro antitumor effectiveness of murine lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells induced by recombinant IL-2].
We have studied the in vitro antitumor effectiveness of murine lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cells induced by recombinant IL-2 (rIL-2). LAK cells were generated by placing 5 X 10(7) fresh C 57 BL/6 splenocytes (erythrocytes were lysed osmotically) in 10-cm (diameter) dishes (Falcon) containing 10 ml of complete medium (CM). The CM consisted of RPMI 1640 with 0.1 mM non-essential amino acids, 1 microM sodium pyruvate, 5 X 10(-5)M 2-mercaptoethanol, 50 micrograms/ml gentamicin sulfate, 0.03% glutamine, 10% heat-inactivated fetal calf serum (FCS) and 10 units/ml of rIL-2 (TGP-3, provided by TAKEDA Chemical Industries, Ltd). The dishes were incubated horizontally at 37 degrees C in a 5% CO2 atmosphere for 72-96 hr. The LAK cells were then harvested, washed three times, and resuspended in RPMI 1640 with 5% heat-inactivated FCS for the in vitro cytotoxicity assay. The antitumor cytotoxic activity of LAK cells was estimated in triplicate by 4 hr 51Cr release assays. The cytotoxic activity of LAK cells against syngeneic 203 glioma and normal syngeneic glioblasts was approximately 50% and a few %, respectively. The in vitro cytotoxicity of LAK cells against syngeneic EL-4 thymoma, allogeneic YAC-1 lymphoma and P-815 mastocytoma was 72%, 87% and 43%, respectively. Thus LAK cells have apparent tumor specificity in vitro and are easily generated. Fresh splenocytes of CBA/J mice were markedly lytic for natural killer (NK)-sensitive YAC-1 cells, but not for 203-glioma cells or NK-resistant P-815 cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Interrelationship of Gene Expression, Polysome Prevalence, and Respiration during Ripening of Ethylene and/or Cyanide-Treated Avocado Fruit.
Upon initiation of ripening in avocado fruit (Persea americana Mill. cv Hass) with 10 microliters/liter ethylene, polysome prevalence and associated poly(A)(+) mRNA increase approximately 3-fold early in the respiratory climacteric and drop off to preclimacteric levels at the peak of the respiratory climacteric. The increase in poly(A)(+) mRNA on polysomes early in the respiratory climacteric constitutes a generic increase in constitutive mRNAs. New gene expression associated with ripening is minimal but evident after 10 hours of ethylene treatment and continues to increase relative to constitutive gene expression throughout the climacteric. The respiratory climacteric can be temporally separated into two phases. The first phase is associated with a general increase in protein synthesis, whereas the second phase reflects new gene expression and accumulation of corresponding proteins which may be responsible for softening and other ripening characteristics. A major new message on polysomes that arises concomitantly with the respiratory climacteric codes for an in vitro translation product of 53 kilodaltons which is immunoprecipitated by antiserum against avocado fruit cellulase.Cyanide at 500 microliters/liter fails to affect the change in polysome prevalance or new gene expression associated with the ethylene-evoked climacteric in avocado fruit. Treatment of fruit with 500 microliters/liter cyanide alone initiates a respiratory increase within 4 hours, ethylene biosynthesis within 18 hours, and new gene expression akin to that educed by ethylene within 20 hours of exposure to cyanide.


Development of an MR simulator: experimental verification of geometric distortion and clinical application.
To evaluate the geometric distortion on magnetic resonance (MR) images obtained with a permanent magnet system and determine the usefulness of MR imaging-assisted x-ray simulation in radiation therapy treatment planning (RTTP). The authors measured the distortion on MR images of grid-pattern phantoms. MR imaging-assisted x-ray simulation was performed with skin markers in 14 patients with bone tumors. Treatment planning had already been performed with a conventional system. On phantom images, most of the positional displacements within a 120-mm radius from the center of the static magnetic field were less than 2 mm; larger displacements were observed in the peripheral region of the images. MR imaging was useful in the RTTP of all patients. The original radiation field was modified after MR examination in six patients. The amount of image distortion within the practical area is acceptable for RTTP. MR imaging-assisted x-ray simulation is useful for patients with bone tumors and warrants further investigation.


Short-Term Effects of Photodynamic Therapy on Segmentation of Retinal Layers in Central Serous Chorioretinopathy.
The present study aims to evaluate the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on the thickness of segmentation layers of the retina in cases with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR). This was a prospective, observational study on cases with CSCR who were candidates for PDT therapy. All patients had undergone at least 1 month of conservative management without satisfactory resolution. PDT was carried out according to the safe half-dose therapy scheme. Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography was employed to evaluate the changes in morphology and segmentation of retinal layers. Patients were followed up for 3 months. Twenty-seven cases (18 males and 9 females) were included. Age of the patients varied from 39 to 59 years (mean: 46.61 ± 12.48 years). Cases were followed for 92.17 ± 3.28 days. Sixteen cases had functional and anatomical improvement by the treatment. Changes in overall retinal (377.39 ± 61.36 to 323.61 ± 71.36; P = 0.004) and all outer retinal segmentation layers including outer plexiform layer (34.93 ± 10.07 to 29.25 ± 6.12; P = 0.008), outer nuclear layer (63.52 ± 30.44 to 46.44 ± 20.62; P = 0.017), and retinal pigment epithelium (40.66 ± 37.73 to 23.78 ± 29.33; P = 0.016) were statistically significant. On the contrary, inner retinal segmentation layers, especially retinal ganglion cell (RGC) layer (38.29 ± 16.63 to 37.26 ± 16.18; P = 0.387), remained statistically unchanged. We postulate that PDT alleviates outer retinal edema where fluid accumulation occurs mostly, whereas it does not alter inner retinal and especially RGC layer. These findings may indicate that short-term atrophy of the inner retina did not occur following PDT and may point toward safety of this method for cases with CSCR.


Evaluation of detergency using artificially soiled multifiber fabrics.
The evaluation of textile detergency was carried out using artificially soiled multifiber adjacent fabric (MFF) composed of six different warp regions. The MFF soiled with model water-soluble, oily or particulate contaminant was cleaned in water, water/ethanol (1/1 in volume ratio), ethanol and n-decane with the stirring as a mechanical action. The detergency of the each fiber region was determined from the change in surface reflectance of the corresponding region due to cleaning. The soil removal was strongly dependent on contaminant, fiber and liquid species, indicating that the detergency was dominated by the dissolution of the contaminant into the washing liquid and the affinity between the contaminant and the fiber surface. The addition of alkali and surfactant to water or the solubilization of water into n-decane considerably increased the soil removal. The experimental results were not in contradiction with common and well-known knowledge about textile washing. Therefore, the artificially soiled MFF can be utilized for the detergency evaluation for textiles.


The effect of 1-hydroxyvitamin D3 for prolongation of leukemic transformation-free survival in myelodysplastic syndromes.
Leukemic transformation (LT) free survival was studied in 30 patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). In 15 cases, 4-6 micrograms/day of 1-hydroxyvitamin D3 was administered, for a median duration of 17 months (D-group), other subjects had no therapy (N group). LT free survival of the D group had significant advantage over that of the N group according to the Kaplan-Meier method (P less than 0.001). In addition, 7 cases in the N group developed acute leukemia, in contrast to only one in the D group (P less than 0.05). These results suggest that oral administration of 1-hydroxyvitamin D3 prevents the progression of MDS to overt leukemia under the effect of differentiation capacity from blasts to monocytes.


[Percutaneous coronary excimer laser angioplasty].
Available preliminary clinical studies have shown that ablation of atherosclerotic plaques can be achieved by means of pulsed excimer laser coronary angioplasty via flexible energy transmission systems. The goal of current studies using improved catheter technology is to enhance the acute success rate since, based on initial studies, it can be assumed that only about 40 to 45% of the patients can be successfully treated. The on-going investigations were carried out primarily with three different excimer laser systems which employ a wavelength of 308 nm but differing pulse widths and transmission systems. In the first American multicenter study by Litvack and Margolis a catheter system was used with a pulse width of 180 to 220 ns. The fibers have a shaft diameter of 100 microns with a conically-thickened distal end measuring 200 microns, the ablative area encompasses 35 to 45% of the total catheter tip surface. The excimer laser used in the second American multicenter study by Sanborn and Isner has a pulse width of 120 ns. This catheter is relatively unflexible due to the 200 microns fiber diameter. The ablative catheter tip area is 25 to 30%. In Tübingen a system was used with a pulse width of 60 ns. The energy is transmitted through fibers with a diameter of 100 microns. The effective ablative area in the first series of patients was about 15%, in the second series about 25 to 30%. At present, the energy density of all three systems is comparable with at least 25 to 35 mJ/mm2. Since there is currently no means for accurate assessment, the question of whether a shorter pulse width of comparable energy density is more effective than the longer pulse width, remains an open issue. The flexibility of the systems used by Margolis and in Tübingen enable ablation not only of proximal, but also arteriosclerotic plaques located in the middle-third of vessels. The flexibility and steerability, however, are inferior to balloon catheter systems. In the study carried out by Litvack and Margolis, in which more than 600 patients have been treated, and the results from 514 patients reported, there was no patient selection in the first series. The study by Sanborn and Isner included 88 patients. Due to the relatively unflexible catheter system, only those patients were treated who had proximal stenosis of the left anterior descending or right coronary artery or marginal branches of the circumflex artery without marked tortuosity.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)


Acquired immunity on a schistosomiasis transmission model - fitting the data.
A semi-stochastic model is proposed to analyse the effects of acquired immunity on the transmission of schistosomiasis in the human host. The basic model's assumptions are as follows. The human host is assumed to build up an immune response after elapsing a fixed period of time L from the first infection. This acquired immunity is assumed to be partially effective and it is never lost. The parasite infection event is a Poisson process with multiple occurrences, i.e., in each event one or more cercaria are assumed to invade the host. The model treats deterministically the age distribution of human host. The model shows a good retrieving capacity of real data from two endemic areas of schistosomiasis: Touros, Brazil (Schistosoma mansoni) and Misungwi, Tanzania (Schistosoma haematobium).


Assessment of environmental hazards of 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene.
The remedial investigation/feasibility studies conducted at certain Army installations showed a need to clean up contaminated sites, where high levels of ammunition chemicals such as 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), 1,3,5-trinitrobenzene (TNB), 1,3-dinitrobenzene (DNB), and their degradation products/metabolites were detected in surface soil and groundwater. TNB is a photodegradation product of TNT; it is not easily degraded, and persists in the environment. The toxicity data on TNB are scanty. Hence the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1988 (U.S. EPA, 1997) developed a reference dose (RfD) for TNB (0.00005 mg/kg/d for chronic toxicity) based on the toxicity of DNB, which is structurally similar to TNB. Since then we have completed acute, subacute, subchronic, chronic, reproductive, and developmental toxicity studies and toxicokinetics studies. We have reviewed the mammalian toxicity data for TNB and have determined the no observed adverse effect levels (NOAEL) and low observed adverse effect levels (LOAEL) for subchronic, chronic, reproductive, and developmental toxicity. Based on the newly determined NOAEL and LOAEL values, we have now developed a new RfD for TNB (0.03 mg/kg/d), based on the chronic toxic effects on hematology and histopathological changes in testes and kidney.


What Child Analysis Can Teach Us about Psychoanalytic Technique.
Child analysis has much to teach us about analytic technique. Children have an innate, developmentally driven sense of analytic process. Children in analysis underscore the importance of an understanding and belief in the therapeutic action of play, the provisional aspects of play, and that not all play will be understood. Each analysis requires learning a new play signature that is constantly reorganized. Child analysis emphasizes the emergence and integration of dissociated states, the negotiation of self-other relationships, the importance of co-creation, and the child's awareness of the analyst's sensibility. Child analysis highlights the robust nature of transference and how working through and repairing is related to the initiation of coordinated patterns of high predictability in the context of deep attachments. I will illustrate these and other ideas in the description of the analysis of a nine-year-old boy.


Stoichiometry of H+-linked dopamine transport in chromaffin granule ghosts.
A proton-translocating adenosinetriphosphatase in adrenal medullary chromaffin granule ghosts can generate either a membrane potential (inside positive) or a pH gradient (inside acid). Dopamine uptake occurs in response to both the membrane potential and the pH gradient. The natural logarithm of the dopamine concentration gradient [In (Din/Dout)] is linearly related to the membrane potential with a slope of F/(RT). This dependence is not affected by the pH of the medium. In (Din/Dout) is linearly dependent on In ([H+]in/[H+]out) with a slope of 2. These results indicate that dopamine is taken up via an exchange diffusion or antiport mechanism. The stoichiometry of this exchange is two H+/dopamine cation and is independent of pH.


Digging for Dementia: Exploring the experience of community gardening from the perspectives of people with dementia.
The study sought to explore the lived experiences of people with dementia who participate in community-based gardening programmes. A collaborative gardening project was conducted over six weeks at a day centre for people with dementia. Six participants were recruited from the centre's attendees. Each session was co-designed by participants. Semi-structured group interviews were conducted each week, and researcher observations were documented. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with the centre's staff to explore their views and to contextualise gardening participants' experiences. Data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. This paper focuses upon three of the study's emergent themes: identity, agency, and community. The findings revealed that for people with dementia, gardening is not merely a matter of enjoying time outdoors; it is a forum for the articulation of identity and selfhood and expression of agency, and can facilitate the development of new social bonds based upon shared interests, rather than a shared diagnosis. Gardening-based interventions can offer more than simply facilitating outdoor engagement and promoting social interaction. When conditions are right, gardening can be an effective vehicle for the promotion of social citizenship and expression of selfhood and agency in dementia.


Fighting against the second wave of COVID-19: Can honeybee products help protect against the pandemic?
Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) has infected people in 210 nations and has been declared a pandemic on March 12, 2020 by the World Health Organization (WHO). In the absence of effective treatment and/or vaccines for COVID-19, natural products of known therapeutic and antiviral activity could offer an inexpensive, effective option for managing the disease. Benefits of products of honey bees such as honey, propolis, and bee venom, against various types of diseases have been observed. Honey bees products are well known for their nutritional and medicinal values, they have been employed for ages for various therapeutic purposes. In this review, promising effects of various bee products against the emerging pandemic COVID-19 are discussed. Products of honey bees that contain mixtures of potentially active chemicals, possess unique properties that might help to protect, fight, and alleviate symptoms of COVID-19 infection.


Plasticizer, di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) enhances cockroach allergen extract-driven airway inflammation by enhancing pulmonary Th2 as well as Th17 immune responses in mice.
In recent decades, there has been a gradual increase in the prevalence of asthma. Various factors including environmental pollutants have contributed to this phenomenon. Plasticizer, di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) is one of the commonest environmental pollutants due to its association with plastic products. DEHP gets released from plastic products easily leading to respiratory exposure in humans. As a consequence, DEHP is associated with allergic asthma in humans and animals. DEHP is reported to act as an adjuvant in ovalbumin-induced mouse models of asthma at high doses. However, these studies mostly looked into the role of DEHP on Th2 cytokines/eosinophilic inflammation without investigating the role of airway epithelial cells (AECs)/dendritic cells (DCs)/Th17 cells. Its adjuvant activity with natural allergens such as cockroach allergens at tolerable daily intake needs to be explored. Cockroach allergens and DEHP may be inhaled together due to their coexistence in work place as well as household environments. Therefore, effect of DEHP was assessed in cockroach allergens extract (CE)-induced mouse model of asthma. Airway inflammation, histopathology, mucus secretion, and immune responses related to Th2/Th17/DCs and AECs were assessed in mice with DEHP exposure alone and in combination with CE. Our study shows that DEHP converts CE-induced eosinophilic inflammation into mixed granulocytic inflammation by promoting Th2 as well as Th17 immune responses. This was probably due to downregulation of E-cadherin in AECs, and enhancement of costimulatory molecules (MHCII/CD86/CD40)/pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6/MCP-1) in DCs by DEHP. This suggests that DEHP facilitates development of mixed granulocytic airway inflammation in the presence of a natural allergen.


The use of multiple psychotropic medication in the treatment of mental disorders.
The concurrent use of multiple psychotropic medication has been reported to be widely prevalent in the treatment of mental disorders, and is considered inferior practice [1]. However, the complexity of the issues demands reappraisal. This paper attempts to discuss the conceptual and practical issues involved.


Perioperative evaluation of cardiac surgical risk: particularities in the emergency surgery - from the guidelines to the clinical practice.
Cardiac risk in patients undergoing surgery depends on many factors from the patient's cardiovascular history to the surgical procedure itself, with its particularities, the type of anesthesia, fluid exchanges and the supervision of the patient. Therefore, this risk must be carefully considered and it determines the endorsement of perioperative measures with important medical implications. Perioperative cardiac risk evaluation guidelines were published since 2010 and they represent a highly important assessmnet tool. Emergency surgery requires an adaptation of the guidelines to the actual medical situations in extreme conditions. METHODS, RESULTS, DISCUSSION: Analyzing the way the perioperative evaluation itself is conducted is an extremely important tool. Quantifying the clinical application of the guidelines, one can monitor real parameters and find solutions for improving medical care. The current study was conducted on a representative sample of 8326 patients, respecting the recommendation strategies for calculating the surgical risk adapted for the emergency surgery setting. The dominant conclusion is the need to develop a standardized form, summarized for quick and objective assessment of perioperative cardiac risk score. Only a complex medical team could calculate this score while the decisional team leader for the surgical patient remains the surgeon.


Vascular ischaemia and reperfusion injury.
Although restoration of blood flow to an ischaemic organ is essential to prevent irreversible tissue injury, reperfusion per se may result in a local and systemic inflammatory response that may augment tissue injury in excess of that produced by ischaemia alone. Cellular damage after reperfusion of previously viable ischaemic tissues is defined as ischaemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury. I-R injury is characterized by oxidant production, complement activation, leucocyte-endothelial cell adhesion, platelet-leucocyte aggregation, increased microvascular permeability and decreased endothelium-dependent relaxation. In its severest form, I-R injury can lead to multiorgan dysfunction or death. Although our understanding of the pathophysiology of I-R injury has advanced significantly in the last decade, such experimentally derived concepts have yet to be fully integrated into clinical practice. Treatment of I-R injury is also confounded by the fact that inhibition of I-R-associated inflammation might disrupt protective physiological responses or result in immunosuppression. Thus, while timely reperfusion of the ischaemic area at risk remains the cornerstone of clinical practice, therapeutic strategies such as ischaemic preconditioning, controlled reperfusion, and anti-oxidant, complement or neutrophil therapy may significantly prevent or limit I-R-induced injury in humans.


Imaging of caseous calcification of the mitral annulus.
Caseous calcification of the mitral annulus is a rare form of periannular calcification that generally appears as a calcified mass with a central echolucent area that may lead to diagnostic errors. The case is reported of a 65-year-old woman in whom a suspicious mass was detected with transthoracic echocardiography performed for dyspnea.


Cross-sectional study on the prevalence of anemia among rural elderly in Asan.
The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and clinical characteristics of anemia and to define the risk factors for anemia in older Koreans in Asan. From January to February 2002, five hundred sixty two community-dwelling older adults aged over 60 years were selected from a cross sectional study. All subjects underwent laboratory tests, which included a complete blood cell count, reticulocyte, liver and renal functional tests, lipid profiles and iron status tests. The median age was 68.6 years (range, 60-92 years). The mean levels of hemoglobin were 14.4 +/- 1.3 g/dL in men and 12.9 +/- 1.0 g/dL in women, and the overall prevalence of anemia was 12.5% in all subjects, 10.8% in men and 13.6% in women. The prevalence of anemia was the lowest among age group of 60-69 (10.0%) followed by 70-79 (15.5%), and the highest among age over 80 (20.7%), but the difference was significant only for men. The age difference was more distinct in men than in women (p<0.05). The mean hemoglobin level was significantly lower in the subjects aged over 80 y than those in the 60-69 y group (p<0.05). According to a logistic regression analysis, lower albumin and higher creatinine levels were identified as independent risk factors of anemia among older adults in Asan. In conclusion, the overall prevalence of anemia in our study group was 12.5% and the highest (20.7%) among those aged over 80 y.


Vitamin E analogue Trolox C. E.s.r. and pulse-radiolysis studies of free-radical reactions.
The reactions between Trolox C, a water-soluble vitamin E analogue, and several oxidizing free radicals including the hydroxyl radical and various peroxy radicals were examined by using the pulse-radiolysis technique. The results demonstrate that Trolox C may undergo rapid one-electron-transfer reactions as well as hydrogen-transfer processes; the resulting phenoxyl radical is shown to be relatively stable, in common with the phenoxyl radical derived from vitamin E. The reactions between the Trolox C phenoxyl radical and a variety of biologically relevant reducing compounds were examined by using both pulse radiolysis and e.s.r. The results demonstrate that the Trolox C phenoxyl radical is readily repaired by ascorbate (k = 8.3 x 10(6) dm3.mol-1.s-1) and certain thiols (k less than 10(5) dm3.mol-1.s-1) but not by urate, NADH or propyl gallate. Evidence from e.s.r. studies indicates that thiol-containing compounds may also enter into similar repair reactions with the alpha-tocopherol phenoxyl radical. Kinetic evidence is presented that suggests that Trolox C may 'repair' proteins that have been oxidized by free radicals.


An In Situ Gelling Drug Delivery System for Improved Recovery after Spinal Cord Injury.
Therapeutic strategies for the spinal cord injury (SCI) are limited by the current available drug delivery techniques. Here, an in situ gelling drug delivery system (DDS), composed of a Poloxamer-407, a 188 mixture-based thermoresponsive hydrogel matrix and, an incorporated therapeutic compound (monosialoganglioside, GM1), is developed for SCI therapy. A low-thoracic hemisection in rats is used as SCI model to evaluate therapeutic efficiency. The GM1-incorporating Poloxamer-407 and 188 polymer solution is converted to a hydrogel (GM1-hydrogel) upon instillation to the injured spinal cord, due to the increased temperature. At body temperature, the thermoresponsive hydrogel prolongs the release of GM1 for about 1 month, due to the superposition of dissolution and swelling (anomalous transport) of the hydrogel matrix. The sustained release of the GM1-hydrogel enables the prolonged residence time of GM1 at the injured spinal cord, decreases the frequency of administration and, consequently, may improve patient compliance. After SCI, the administration of GM1-hydrogel to the lesion site inhibits the apoptotic cell death and glial scar formation, enhances the neuron regeneration, provides neuroprotection to the injured spinal cord, and improves the locomotor recovery. Overall, this study opens future perspectives for the treatment of SCI with a prolonged drug release DDS.


Electroconvulsive shock decreases beta-adrenoceptors despite serotonin lesions.
We have measured the effect of electroconvulsive shock (ECS) on high- and low-affinity [3H]dihydroalprenolol binding in cerebral cortex of control rats and rats with lesions of serotonin neurons. Eleven days of treatment with ECS (once daily) resulted in a decrease in the number of beta-adrenoceptor binding sites for which isoproterenol has high-affinity. Following lesions with 5,7-dihydroxytryptamine, ECS still resulted in a decrease in these receptors. Hence, ECS does not require intact serotonin neurons to decrease the number of high-affinity beta-adrenoceptors.


Chromosome 6 encoded RNaseT2 protein is a cell growth regulator.
We have previously shown by chromosome transfer technique that chromosome 6 alters the phenotype of a variety of tumour cells and SV40 immortalized cells. We present here the phenotypic effects of the ectopic expression of RNaseT2, a highly conserved ribonuclease encoded by chromosome 6q27, in SV40 immortalized cell lines. We contrast our findings with those reported for ovarian carcinoma cell lines and an SV40 immortalized cell line transfected with RNaseT2. Although RNaseT2 expression is elevated in normal diploid fibroblasts approaching senescence (passage 64), forced expression of the gene in immortalized cells does not cause them to senesce. A significant reduction was observed in colony forming efficiency, anchorage independence and growth rate of cells transfected with RNaseT2. The levels of transcripts involved in Akt signalling pathway, cell cycle control and pathways related to cell proliferation decreased 2-10-folds in SV40 immortalized cells in response to RNaseT2 expression. Interestingly, some immortalized cells expressed alternatively spliced transcript variants instead of the full-length RNaseT2 transcript. Our results are consistent with the conclusion that RNaseT2 is a cell growth regulator and it does not induce senescence in SV40 immortalized cell lines.


Gas-particle partitioning and seasonal variation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the atmosphere of Zonguldak, Turkey.
Atmospheric concentrations and gas-particle partition coefficients were determined for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the atmosphere of Zonguldak, Turkey between May 2007 and April 2008. Total concentrations of PAHs ranged from 0.52ngm(-3) to 636ngm(-3) in the particle phase and from 5.60ngm(-3) to 725ngm(-3) in the gas phase. The annual mean concentrations of PAHs in the particle and gas phase were found to be 114ngm(-3) and 184ngm(-3), respectively. Significant seasonal variations of particle and gas phase PAH concentrations were observed with higher levels during cold period. The distribution of PAHs between the particle and gas phase was investigated and it was found that three ring PAHs were associated primarily with the gas phase, four ring PAHs were distributed almost equally between the two phases and five and six ring PAHs were mainly associated with the particle phase. Gas-particle partition coefficients (K(p)) of PAHs have been calculated and correlated with their subcooled liquid vapor pressures (P(L)º). The slopes (m(r)) varied from -0.63 to -0.23 were far from the theoretical value (-1) due to the short distance between the sampling point and the emission sources. The relationships between temperature and gas phase partial pressures of PAHs were examined using the Clausius-Clapeyron equation and the obtained positive slopes indicated that PAH concentrations increased with decreasing air temperature as a result of high dominance of local emissions.


Sleep Duration, Sleep Apnea, and Gray Matter Volume.
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of sleep duration on brain structures in the presence versus absence of sleep apnea in middle-aged and older individuals. The study investigated a population-based sample of 2,560 individuals, aged 49-80 years. The presence of sleep apnea and self-reported sleep duration were examined in relation to gray matter volume (GMV) in total and lobar brain regions. We identified ranges of sleep duration associated with maximal GMV using quadratic regression and bootstrap sampling. A significant quadratic association between sleep duration and GMV was observed in total and lobar brain regions of men with sleep apnea. In the fully adjusted model, optimal sleep durations associated with peak GMV between brain regions ranged from 6.7 to 7.0 hours. Shorter and longer sleep durations were associated with lower GMV in total and 4 sub-regions of the brain in men with sleep apnea.


Effect of functional group on the monolayer structures of biodegradable quaternary ammonium surfactants.
The monolayer structures and conformational ordering of cationic surfactants including the biodegradable quaternary ammonium molecules have been systematically characterized by π-A isotherm, surface potential, atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and sum frequency generation (SFG) vibrational spectroscopy. It was found that the monolayer of the typical dialkyl dimethylammonium on the water surface was less densely packed along with many conformational gauche defects. The packing density and ordering of these monolayers were improved as halide ions were added to the subphase. A similar condensation effect was also observed when amide or ester groups are present in the alkyl tails of the surfactant. These results are discussed on the basis of the repulsive electrostatic interactions between the terminal ammonium moieties, the hydrogen bonding between the functional groups in the alkyl chains, as well as the flexibility of the alkyl chains in these surfactants. The present study is crucial to understanding the relationship between the interfacial structures and the functionalities of the biodegradable quaternary ammonium surfactants.


Obstetric and perinatal outcomes of dizygotic twin pregnancies resulting from in vitro fertilization versus spontaneous conception: a retrospective study.
This study was designed to to assess perinatal and neonatal outcomes of dizygotic twin pregnancies conceived naturally or by in vitro fertilization (IVF). After strict selection, the study included 470 dizygotic twin pregnancies. There were 249 resulting from IVF treatments and 221 conceiving spontaneously. After adjusting maternal age and primiparity, the results showed that there were no significant differences between the two groups (P > 0.05) in terms of maternal antenatal complications and neonatal outcomes. In conclusion, our study does not reveal increased risks for pregnancy-related complications and adverse neonatal outcomes in dizygotic twin pregnancies following IVF treatments. With these fundamental data, this study could provide a reference for perinatal care and clinical assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment and help to inform infertile parents about the potential risks of IVF treatments.


Synbiotic açaí juice (Euterpe oleracea) containing sucralose as noncaloric sweetener: Processing optimization, bioactive compounds, and acceptance during storage.
This study aimed to evaluate the fermentation process of Lacticaseibacillus casei in the açaí juice, and to evaluate the addition of fructooligosaccharides and sucrose. The organic acids, anthocyanins, polyphenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity were also investigated during fermentation. Moreover, the impact of sucrose and sucralose on microbial viability and sensory acceptance of synbiotic products was evaluated during 42 days storage at refrigerated conditions. The conditions for synbiotic juice production were the initial pH of 6.1 and fermentation undertaken at 28 °C for 22 hr. During fermentation, the higher viability was obtained when a combination of 40 g/L of FOS+10 g/L of sucrose was used (9.70 ± 0.01 log CFU/mL). The lactic acid increased from 0.82 to 1.29 g/L during the fermentation while citric acid decreased from 1.05 to 0.75 g/L. The cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside, polyphenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity increased. Thus, fermentation improved the functional value of the beverage. The L. casei viability reduced from 9.71 ± 0.04 to 8.90 ± 0.06 log CFU/ mL in the juice with sucrose, and from 9.71 ± 0.04 to 8.71 ± 0.14 log CFU/ mL in the juice with sucralose. Thus, the açaí juice is a viable matrix for the synbiotic food, which allows the viability maintenance during the storage. Regarding sensory acceptance, the internal preference mapping indicated an increase in the color preference with the storage of synbiotic juices. However, the flavor and overall acceptance reduced with storage. Nevertheless, the flavor and overall acceptance of juice with sucralose were better than the juice with sucrose. After 42 days of storage, penalty analysis revealed that beverage with sucrose showed a lack of sweet taste and excess of sour taste. Thus, a high-quality açaí product with viable probiotic microorganism, high anthocyanins, and polyphenolic compounds contents could be obtained, which can be exploited for commercial use. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Synbiotic açaí juice is a healthier alternative to consuming products containing this fruit. The inclusion of probiotic microorganisms and prebiotic fructooligosaccharides increased bioactive compounds contents during the shelf life of the juice. The sensory evaluation using the internal preference mapping revealed that the juice flavor with sucralose was better accepted than the juice formulated with addition of sucrose.


Intraoperative computed tomography with integrated navigation system in a multidisciplinary operating suite.
We report our preliminary experience in a prospective series of patients with regard to feasibility, work flow, and image quality using a multislice computed tomographic (CT) scanner combined with a frameless neuronavigation system (NNS). A sliding gantry 40-slice CT scanner was installed in a preexisting operating room. The scanner was connected to a frameless infrared-based NNS. Image data was transferred directly from the scanner into the navigation system. This allowed updating of the NNS during surgery by automated image registration based on the position of the gantry. Intraoperative CT angiography was possible. The patient was positioned on a radiolucent operating table that fits within the bore of the gantry. During image acquisition, the gantry moved over the patient. This table allowed all positions and movements like any normal operating table without compromising the positioning of the patient. For cranial surgery, a carbon-made radiolucent head clamp was fixed to the table. Experience with the first 230 patients confirms the feasibility of intraoperative CT scanning (136 patients with intracranial pathology, 94 patients with spinal lesions). After a specific work flow, interruption of surgery for intraoperative scanning can be limited to 10 to 15 minutes in cranial surgery and to 9 minutes in spinal surgery. Intraoperative imaging changed the course of surgery in 16 of the 230 cases either because control CT scans showed suboptimal screw position (17 of 307 screws, with 9 in 7 patients requiring correction) or that tumor resection was insufficient (9 cases). Intraoperative CT angiography has been performed in 7 cases so far with good image quality to determine residual flow in an aneurysm. Image quality was excellent in spinal and cranial base surgery. The system can be installed in a preexisting operating environment without the need for special surgical instruments. It increases the safety of the patient and the surgeon without necessitating a change in the existing surgical protocol and work flow. Imaging and updating of the NNS can be performed at any time during surgery with very limited time and modification of the surgical setup. Multidisciplinary use increases utilization of the system and thus improves the cost-efficiency relationship.


Progestogens and cardiovascular disease. A critical review.
Although progestational hormones are clearly beneficial in preventing estrogen-induced endometrial hyperplasia and cancer, their effect on other areas is far less clear. Of particular interest is the attenuating effect medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) has on the cardiovascular benefits of postmenopausal estrogen treatment. MPA reduces the dilatory effect of estrogens on coronary arteries, increases the progression of coronary artery atherosclerosis, accelerates low-density lipoprotein uptake in plaque, increases the thrombogenic potential of atherosclerotic plaques and promotes insulin resistance and its consequent hyperglycemia. These effects may be largely limited to MPA and not shared with other progestogens.


RSA and registries: the quest for phased introduction of new implants.
Although the overall survival of knee and hip prostheses at ten years averages 90%, recent problems with several hip and knee prostheses have illustrated that the orthopaedic community, industry, and regulators can still further improve patient safety. Given the early predictive properties of roentgen stereophotogrammetric analysis (RSA) and the meticulous follow-up of national joint registries, these two methods are ideal tools for such a phased clinical introduction. In this paper, we elaborate on the predictive power of RSA within a two-year follow-up after arthroplasty and its relationship to national joint registries. The association between RSA prosthesis-migration data and registry data is evaluated. The five-year rate of revision of RSA-tested total knee replacements was compared with that of non-RSA-tested total knee replacements. Data were extracted from the published results of the national joint registries of Sweden, Australia, and New Zealand. There was a 22% to 35% reduction in the number of revisions of RSA-tested total knee replacements as compared with non-RSA-tested total knee replacements in the national joint registries. Assuming that the total cost of total knee arthroplasty is $37,000 in the United States, a 22% to 35% reduction in the number of revisions (currently close to 55,000 annually) could lead to an estimated annual savings of over $400 million to the health-care system. The phased clinical introduction of new prostheses with two-year RSA results as a qualitative tool could lead to better patient care and could reduce the costs associated with revision total knee arthroplasty. Follow-up in registries is necessary to substantiate these results and to improve post-market surveillance.


Nanocarriers for the simultaneous co-delivery of therapeutic genes and anticancer drugs.
Due to the molecular complexity of cancer, combination therapy is becoming increasingly important for better long-term prognosis with fewer side effects. To further increase the therapeutic effects, advanced drug delivery systems (DDSs), capable of simultaneously delivering multiple drugs to the site of action with specific time-programmed release profiles, are important requirements. Nanocarriers for the simultaneous co-delivery of multiple chemical drugs in combination therapy have been extensively reviewed. Here we focus on the nanotechnology enabled DDSs for the simultaneous co-delivery of therapeutic genes and chemical drugs for cancer treatment. The opportunities for this combination strategy and their challenges will be discussed.


Use of Zebrafish as a Model Organism to Study Oxidative Stress: A Review.
Dioxygen is an integral part of every living organism, but its concentration varies from organ to organ. Production of metabolites from dioxygen may result in oxidative stress. Since oxidative stress has the potential to damage various biomolecules in the cell, therefore, it has presently become an active field of research. Oxidative stress has been studied in a wide range of model organisms from vertebrates to invertebrates, from rodents to piscine organisms, and from in vivo to in vitro models. But zebrafish (adults, larvae, or embryonic stage) emerged out to be the most promising vertebrate model organism to study oxidative stress because of its vast advantages (transparent embryo, cost-effectiveness, similarity to human genome, easy developmental processes, numerous offspring per spawning, and many more). This is evidenced by voluminous number of researches on oxidative stress in zebrafish exposed to chemicals, radiations, nanoparticles, pesticides, heavy metals, etc. On these backgrounds, this review attempts to highlight the potentiality of zebrafish as model of oxidative stress compared with other companion models. Several areas, from biomedical to environmental research, have been covered to explain it as a more convenient and reliable animal model for experimental research on oxidative mechanisms.


[Nine cases of debrancher deficiency (glycogen storage disease type III) presenting muscle weakness--study on clinicobiochemical analysis].
In nine patients aged 3 to 45 years with glycogen storage disease type III (GSD III) presenting muscle weakness, the clinical manifestations and biochemical subtype-classifications based on organ specificity or enzymatic varieties of debrancher enzyme were analyzed. All the patients developed muscle weakness since childhood. Five patients who showed muscle weakness beginning from childhood became apparently progressive during adult life. Cardiac involvements were noticed in six patients. Eight patients were diagnosed as having type IIIa and one type IIId. Our results suggest that progressive muscle weakness and cardiac symptoms are not rare in GSD III patients, especially in the patients with enzyme deficiency in muscle tissue as well as liver. Hence we recommend to measure debrancher activity in muscle tissue in order to predict the clinical prognosis of the patients with GSD III.