A Bayesian sequential design using alpha spending function to control type I error.
We propose in this article a Bayesian sequential design using alpha spending functions to control the overall type I error in phase III clinical trials. We provide algorithms to calculate critical values, power, and sample sizes for the proposed design. Sensitivity analysis is implemented to check the effects from different prior distributions, and conservative priors are recommended. We compare the power and actual sample sizes of the proposed Bayesian sequential design with different alpha spending functions through simulations. We also compare the power of the proposed method with frequentist sequential design using the same alpha spending function. Simulations show that, at the same sample size, the proposed method provides larger power than the corresponding frequentist sequential design. It also has larger power than traditional Bayesian sequential design which sets equal critical values for all interim analyses. When compared with other alpha spending functions, O'Brien-Fleming alpha spending function has the largest power and is the most conservative in terms that at the same sample size, the null hypothesis is the least likely to be rejected at early stage of clinical trials. And finally, we show that adding a step of stop for futility in the Bayesian sequential design can reduce the overall type I error and reduce the actual sample sizes.


Dual effects of Sprouty1 on TCR signaling depending on the differentiation state of the T cell.
Sprouty (Spry) is known to be a negative feedback inhibitor of growth factor receptor signaling through inhibition of the Ras/MAPK pathway. Several groups, however, have reported a positive role for Spry involving sequestration of the inhibitory protein c-Cbl. Thus, Spry may have various functions in the regulation of receptor-mediated signaling depending on the context. In the immune system, the function of Spry is unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of Spry1 in T cell activation. Spry1, among the four mammalian homologs, was specifically induced by TCR signaling of CD4(+) murine T cells. In fully differentiated Th1 clones, overexpressed Spry1 inhibited TCR signaling and decreased IL-2 production while reducing expression with specific siRNA transfection had the opposite effect, increasing IL-2 production. In contrast, in naive T cells, Spry1 overexpression enhanced TCR signaling, and increased proliferation and IL-2 production, while siRNA transfection again had the opposite effect, reducing IL-2 production following activation. The enhancing effect in naive cells was abrogated by preactivation of the T cells with Ag and APC, indicating that the history of exposure to Ag is correlated with a hierarchy of T cell responsiveness to Spry1. Furthermore, both the NF-AT and MAPK pathways were influenced by Spry1, implying a different molecular mechanism from that for growth factor receptor signaling. Thus, Spry1 uses a novel mechanism to bring about differential effects on TCR signaling through the same receptor, depending on the differentiation state of the T cell.


Construction of High-Density Genetic Map in Barley through Restriction-Site Associated DNA Sequencing.
Genetic maps in barley are usually constructed from a limited number of molecular markers such as SSR (simple sequence repeat) and DarT (diversity arrays technology). These markers must be first developed before being used for genotyping. Here, we introduce a new strategy based on sequencing progeny of a doubled haploid population from Baudin × AC Metcalfe to construct a genetic map in barley. About 13,547 polymorphic SNP tags with >93% calling rate were selected to construct the genetic map. A total of 12,998 SNP tags were anchored to seven linkage groups which spanned a cumulative 967.6 cM genetic distance. The high-density genetic map can be used for QTL mapping and the assembly of WGS and BAC contigs. The genetic map was evaluated for its effectiveness and efficiency in QTL mapping and candidate gene identification. A major QTL for plant height was mapped at 105.5 cM on chromosome 3H. This QTL with LOD value of 13.01 explained 44.5% of phenotypic variation. This strategy will enable rapid and efficient establishment of high-density genetic maps in other species.


[Anesthetics and nitric oxide. Interactions and their importance for anesthesia].
Due to its important physiological and pathophysiological actions, the pluripotent signaling molecule nitric oxide (NO) is increasingly of interest in clinical medicine. Despite increasing use by anaesthetists in inhalational therapy for intensive care patients with respiratory distress syndrome, the potential interactions of anaesthetic agents and NO have thus far received little attention. The literature available to date on this topic is somewhat controversial, and highlights the need for additional research in this area. This review summarises the pertinent literature in this area for the anaesthetist and describes potential mechanisms by which anaesthetics may interfere with the synthesis and/or effects of NO in the human body.


Glucose metabolism in Ullrich Turner syndrome: long-term effects of therapy with human growth hormone. German Lilly UTS Study Group.
The effects of GH therapy on glucose metabolism in 72 Turner patients treated with human GH (HGH) 2, 3 or 4 IU/m2/day for 2 years are reported. OGTTs were performed at 0, 3, 12 and 24 months. The overall frequency of glucose intolerance was 9.7% before therapy and did not change under HGH. No change in HbA1c and fasting glucose values occurred. Integrated blood sugar values in the OGTT (area under the curre) did not change with 2 and 3 IU but were significantly elevated over control after 2 years with 4 IU. Insulin secretion was not significantly affected over time with 2 IU, whereas 3 and 4 IU produced significant increases which persisted after 2 years. Results indicate that glucose homeostasis is maintained under GH therapy at the expense of a compensatory increase in insulin secretion which persists at higher GH dosages.


Maxillofacial fractures: twenty years of study in the department of maxillofacial surgery in kosovo.
The aim of this study was to analyze maxillofacial region fractures during the past 20 years in the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery in Prishtina. We have analyzed the histories of all patients with trauma who were hospitalized in the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery in Prishtina since the opening of the clinic in 1983 through 2005. Narrowing the subject of our research, we concentrated on fractures of the maxillofacial region treated at the Clinic of Maxillofacial Surgery for the period 2001-2005. We have analyzed those fractures and compared them with the period from 1983 to 2005 only when it was reasonable. During this period, 1,945 patients were treated for trauma in the maxillofacial region by the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery. This group included 19.8% females and 80.2% males. The largest age group were those between 20 and 20 years of age. Causes of trauma for both periods were predominantly traffic accidents; however, during the period 2001-2005, interpersonal conflicts were increasingly the cause of fractures. Interpersonal conflict as a cause of maxillofacial trauma has risen in recent years. With this increase the methods of treating fractures in this region are also changing.


[Community-based prevention of drug abuse in Japan].
The objective of this article is to review community-based drug abuse prevention and relapse prevention in Japan. Japan has a highly efficient system for the primary prevention of drug abuse; this system includes drug abuse education programs in schools and anti-drug abuse campaigns in communities. On the other hand, relapse prevention activities, such as counseling service at mental health welfare centers, self-help groups for drug addicts, and relapse prevention programs at outpatient clinics, are limited because of zero tolerance policies. Therefore, more relapse prevention activities are required in Japanese communities.


Clustering of health-compromising behavior and delinquency in adolescents and adults in the Dutch population.
This study investigates the clustering of a broad range of health-compromising and delinquent behaviors. We examine whether these behaviors belong to a single but broad cluster, 'risk-taking behavior', and whether the nature and degree of clustering in adolescents differs from that in adults. A representative sample (N=4395) of the Dutch population aged 12 to 40 (overall response rate 67%), was asked about various health-compromising behaviors, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, illegal drug use, unsafe sexual behavior, physical inactivity, poor nutrition (such as skipping breakfast and not eating fruit and vegetables), poor sleep behavior, unlawful traffic behavior, and delinquent and aggressive behavior. Data were collected from fall 2005 to spring 2006 using internet questionnaires and face-to-face computer-assisted interviews. No single broad cluster was found. Instead, there were several separate but interrelated clusters. The contents of these clusters differed between age groups. For young adolescents (12-15) two clusters were identified: Alcohol and Delinquency. For older adolescents (16-18) and adults (19-40) three clusters were identified: Alcohol, Delinquency and Health. The findings of this study support a more integrated approach to promoting healthier lifestyles, and suggest that the behavior targets of integrated prevention programs should be different for adolescents and adults.


Chromosomal assignment of 20 cDNAs using flow-sorted spot-blot stamps.
Using a high-speed flow cytometer/sorter, we constructed spot-blot "stamps" measuring 3.5 x 2.0 cm containing 21 separate human chromosome fractions. Through hybridization to these stamps, 20 randomly selected cDNAs were assigned to specific chromosomes. Sequencing and BLAST database screening confirmed the location of one gene (UCHL1) and allowed the assignment of two other previously identified genes (LRP130 and cDNA IB871.)


The effects of sediment size fraction and associated algal biofilms on the kinetics of phosphorus release.
Experiments using flumes containing sediment of three different size fractions, from two sites on the River Tame, investigated the influences of sediment particle size, and an associated biofilm, on sediment-water exchanges in heterogeneous sediment deposits. This is the first study undertaken to understand the kinetics of the release of soluble reactive phosphorus from sediments of natural systems to identify which of the size compartments affected those fluxes most. Samples of fine material (<2 mm), gravel (2-20 mm), and stones (>20 mm) were collected over a period of several weeks and brought to a fluvarium where they were placed in artificial, controlled flow, and flume channels. Synthetic solutions of similar ionic strength to the river were prepared using calcium chloride. Temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen of the solution overlying the sediment were monitored automatically whilst filtered samples were obtained at 2 h intervals over 48 h. The biomass, expressed as mg m(-2) chlorophyll a, of the algal component of the biofilm from the surface of the sediment was estimated using methanol extraction. Differences in the responses were observed between the sediment size fractions and the two sites, where contaminant concentrations varied. The equilibrium phosphate concentration and a phosphorus transfer index were used to establish that there was a net uptake of phosphorus by all three sediment size fractions, from both sites, at the time of sampling. The kinetic results showed very fast initial reactions of phosphorus release from the larger size fractions with a well-developed filamentous algal growth present implying a different mechanism than diffusion being involved. The stones and associated biofilms also released more phosphorus than the fine fraction, e.g. final release concentrations for the most contaminated site were: fines approximately 2.5 microM, gravel approximately 6.5 microM, and stones approximately 65.0 microM (expressed as soluble reactive phosphorus). Phosphorus fluxes, calculated assuming the concentration of phosphorus in the sediment was less than the equilibrium concentration, were a maximum at the most contaminated site, e.g. fines 6.4 nmol m(-2) s(-1), gravel 27 nmol m(-2) s(-1), and stones 109 nmol m(-2) s(-1) (normalised with respect to the river bed area). These results confirm that sediment having a biofilm and associated particulate material results in a greater flux than fine sediment, which does not support a filamentous biomass. Removal of the fine particulates trapped in the algal growth reduced soluble phosphorus release. These factors demonstrate that both gravel and stone substrates have an important control over the release of soluble reactive phosphorus.


Expression and significance of Annexin A3 in the osteosarcoma cell lines HOS and U2OS.
Annexin A3 (ANXA3) is highly expressed in different types of cancers, but the impact of ANXA3 in bone tumors is still not clear. In the present study, the expression of ANXA3 in osteosarcoma cells was first confirmed by cellular immunofluorescence. Reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‑qPCR) and western blot analysis were used to detect the expression of ANXA3 in osteoblasts in the osteosarcoma cell lines U2OS and HOS. Furthermore, small interfering (si)‑RNA were transfected into U2OS and HOS cells via a liposome‑mediated method. Then once ANXA3 had been successfully downregulated in U2OS and HOS cells, the cells were collected and total protein was extracted after 48 h of transfection. Western blot analysis was used to confirm successful ANXA3 transfection into osteosarcoma cells and the apoptotic rate of HOS and U2OS was detected by flow cytometry. The expression of ANXA3 in the osteosarcoma cell lines HOS and U2OS were first observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy, and was then detected by RT‑qPCR and western blotting. The mRNA and protein levels of ANXA3 in the osteosarcoma cell lines HOS and U2OS were significantly increased compared with osteoblasts, particularly in HOS cells. When siRNA was transfected into HOS and U2OS cells, the protein expression level of ANXA3 was measured via western blotting. The results indicated that the expression of ANXA3 was significantly decreased. In addition, to determine whether ANXA3 knockdown induced cell apoptosis, the present study analyzed the apoptotic rate by flow cytometry. The results revealed that ANXA3 knockdown markedly increased HOS and U2OS cell apoptosis. To the best of our knowledge, the present study is the first to confirm that ANXA3 is highly expressed in the osteosarcoma cell lines HOS and U2OS. In addition, downregulation of ANXA3 expression in HOS and U2OS cells could increase apoptotic ability.


Azacyclic Anchor-Enabled Cohesive Graphite Electrodes for Sustainable Anion Storage.
Advanced energy-storage devices are indispensable for expanding electric mobility applications. While anion intercalation-type redox chemistry in graphite cathodes has opened the path to high-energy-density batteries, surpassing the limited energy density of conventional lithium-ion batteries , a significant challenge remains: the large volume expansion of graphite upon anion intercalation. In this study, a novel polymeric binder and cohesive graphite cathode design for dual-ion batteries (DIBs) is presented, which exhibits remarkable stability even under high voltage conditions (>5 V). The innovative binder incorporates an acrylate moiety ensuring superior oxidative stability and self-healing features, along with an azide moiety, which allows for azacyclic covalent bonding with graphite and interchain crosslinking. A simple 1-h ultraviolet treatment is sufficient for binder fixation within the electrode, leading to the covalent bond formation with graphite and the creation of a robust three-dimensional network. This modification facilitates deeper and more reversible anion intercalation, leading to improved capacity, extended lifespan, and sustainable anion storage. The binder design, exhibiting exceptional adhesive properties and effective stress mitigation, enables the construction of ultrathick graphite cathodes. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of advanced binders, paving the way for high-performance DIBs.


A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled dose-ranging study to evaluate the efficacy of alosetron in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
Irritable bowel syndrome is a common gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain and discomfort and altered bowel habit. Antagonism at the 5-HT3 receptor may be of benefit in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. To evaluate the effect of 12 weeks of treatment with alosetron, a 5-HT3 receptor antagonist at doses of 0.1 mg b.d., 0.5 mg b.d. and 2 mg b.d. in irritable bowel syndrome patients. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study with a 2-week screening and a 12-week treatment period was conducted. A total of 462 patients (335 female) recorded details of the severity of their abdominal pain, and bowel function daily on a diary card throughout the study. At monthly clinic visits patients recorded the severity of their abdominal pain/discomfort and diarrhoea on a visual analogue scale. In the total population and in the female subpopulation (but not in males) alosetron 2 mg b.d. significantly increased the proportion of pain-free days and decreased the visual analogue scale score for diarrhoea compared with placebo. Alosetron at doses of 0.5 mg b.d. and 2 mg b.d. led to a significant hardening of stool, and a reduction in stool frequency in the total population. Alosetron at a dose of 2 mg b.d. is an effective treatment for female patients with irritable bowel syndrome.


Comparison of growth and endocrine changes in Thoroughbred colts and fillies reared under different climate conditions.
Development and endocrine changes in Thoroughbreds colts and fillies were compared between those reared at two facilities of the Japan Racing Association, the Hidaka Training and Research Center (Hidaka) and Miyazaki Yearling Training Farm (Miyazaki). Thoroughbred colts and fillies born in Japan between 2003 and 2010 were used. Each colt group and filly group was divided into 2 groups, respectively, and raised in Hidaka or Miyazaki for 7 months from September at 1 year old to April at 2 years old. For the growth parameters, the body weight, height at withers, and girth and cannon circumferences were measured once a month. For parameters of endocrine function, circulating prolactin, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), testosterone, progesterone, and estradiol-17β levels were measured. Regarding growth, the rate of increase over the 7-month period was significantly higher in both colts and fillies raised in Miyazaki than in Hidaka in all 4 parameters: body weight, height at withers, and girth and cannon circumferences. The endocrine changes of the colts and fillies born in 2007 were as follows. In colts, although circulating prolactin tended to be higher in colts reared in Hidaka from October to April, circulating LH, FSH, testosterone, estradiol-17β and IGF-1 tended to be higher in colts reared in Miyazaki than in Hidaka, suggesting that the gonadotropin-releasing hormone-LH/FSH system and the growth hormone-IGF-1 system were more active in colts reared in Miyazaki as compared with those reared in Hidaka. In fillies, circulating prolactin tended to be higher in fillies reared in Hidaka in February and March, but no significant difference was noted in the serum LH, FSH, IGF-1, or progesterone level between the 2 groups. Circulating estradiol-17β tended to be higher in fillies reared in Miyazaki than in Hidaka in October and November. Regarding ovarian function, the initial ovulation occurred by the end of March in 2 (16.7%) of 12 fillies reared in Hidaka and 7 (38.9%) of 18 fillies reared in Miyazaki, suggesting that the ovarian function was more active in fillies reared in Miyazaki as compared with those reared in Hidaka. Based on these findings, it was clarified that development of the body and gonads was faster in Miyazaki compared with Hidaka in both colts and fillies.


Associations between red cell distribution width and outcomes of adults with in-hospital cardiac arrest: A retrospective study.
Previous studies found that high red cell distribution width (RDW) value is associated with poor outcomes among out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survivors. The aim of this study was to investigate whether post-ROSC RDW value was associated with survival and neurological outcomes of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) patients achieving return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) but remaining critically ill.This retrospective single-center observational study included IHCA adults with sustained ROSC between January 1, 2017 and January 1, 2021 at an academic medical center in China. PostROSC RDW values were measured within 1 hour after sustained ROSC. The primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge and the secondary outcome was favorable neurological outcome at hospital discharge. The associations between postROSC RDW value and outcomes among IHCA patients with ROSC were evaluated by using multivariate logistic regression.A total of 730 patients with sustained ROSC following IHCA were ultimately included in this study. Of whom 194 (26.6%) survived to hospital discharge and 116 (15.9%) had a favorable neurological outcome at hospital discharge. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, lower postROSC RDW value was independently associated with survival to hospital discharge (odds ratio 0.19, 95% confidence interval 0.15-0.63, P = .017, cut-off value: 15.5%) and favorable neurological outcome at hospital discharge (odds ratio 0.23, 95% confidence interval 0.07-0.87, P < .001, cut-off value: 14.6%). Other independent factors including younger age, initial shockable rhythm, shorter total cardiopulmonary resuscitation duration and post-ROSC percutaneous coronary intervention were also associated with survival to hospital discharge. Regarding favorable neurological outcome at hospital discharge, significant variables other than the aforementioned factors included postROSC targeted temperature management and absence of pre-existing neurological insufficiency.Low postROSC RDW value was associated with survival to hospital discharge and favorable neurological outcome at hospital discharge.


High-Intensity Interval Training Improves Cognitive Flexibility in Older Adults.
Introduction: Regular aerobic exercise is associated with better executive function in older adults. It is unclear if high-intensity-interval-training (HIIT) elicits moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) or resistance training (RT). We hypothesized that HIIT would augment executive function more than MICT and RT. Methods: Sixty-nine older adults (age: 68 ± 7 years) performed six weeks (three days/week) of HIIT (2 × 20 min bouts alternating between 15 s intervals at 100% of peak power output (PPO) and passive recovery (0% PPO); n = 24), MICT (34 min at 60% PPO; n = 19), or whole-body RT (eight exercise superior improvements in executive function of older adults than moderate-intensity-continuous-training, 2 × 10 repetitions; n = 26). Cardiorespiratory fitness (i.e., V˙O2max) and executive function were assessed before and after each intervention via a progressive maximal cycle ergometer protocol and the Stroop Task, respectively. Results: The V˙O2max findings revealed a significant group by time interaction (p = 0.001) in which all groups improved following training, but HIIT and MICT improved more than RT. From pre- to post-training, no interaction in the naming condition of the Stroop Task was observed (p > 0.10). However, interaction from pre- to post-training by group was observed, and only the HIIT group exhibited a faster reaction time (from 1250 ± 50 to 1100 ± 50 ms; p < 0.001) in switching (cognitive flexibility). Conclusion: Despite similar improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness, HIIT, but not MICT nor RT, enhanced cognitive flexibility in older adults. Exercise programs should consider using HIIT protocols in an effort to combat cognitive decline in older adults.


Liver melanomacrophage centres as indicators of Atlantic bluefin tuna, Thunnus thynnus L. well-being.
Melanomacrophage centres (MMCs), located in different organs of non-mammalian vertebrates, play a role in the destruction, detoxification or recycling of endogenous and exogenous materials. Cytochrome P450 monoxygenase 1A (CYP1A) is involved in xenobiotics biotransformation, and its liver expression is considered as a biomarker for detecting exposure to environmental pollutants. Atlantic bluefin tuna (ABFT), Thunnus thynnus L., liver samples were collected from: wild animals caught in the eastern Atlantic; juveniles reared in the central Adriatic; juveniles reared in the northern Adriatic; adults reared in the western Mediterranean. The samples were processed for basic histology, histochemistry and for CYP1A immunodetection. An unexpected high density of MMCs, containing ferric iron and lipofuscin-ceroids, was detected in the juveniles sampled in the northern Adriatic Sea. These individuals showed also a strong anti-CYP1A immunopositivity in hepatocytes and in the epithelium of bile ducts. This study supports the utility of MMCs as biomarkers of fish 'health status' and gives concern for a potential contaminant accumulation in ABFT.


Pretargeting radioimmunotherapy of a murine model of adult T-cell leukemia with the alpha-emitting radionuclide, bismuth 213.
We used a pretargeting technique to treat a nonobese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficient murine model of human adult T-cell leukemia with an anti-Tac antibody-streptavidin (HAT-SA) conjugate, which recognizes CD25, followed by bismuth 213 ((213)Bi)-1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-N,N',N",N"'-tetraacetic acid (DOTA)- biotin. In the 3-step pretargeting radioimmunotherapy protocol, HAT-SA (140 or 400 microg) was administered intravenously (i.v.) to bind to the interleukin 2 receptor alpha (IL-2R alpha; CD25)-expressing tumor cells. After 24 hours, 100 microg of a synthetic clearing agent was administered i.v. to remove unbound circulating HAT-SA conjugate from the circulation. Four hours later, (213)Bi-DOTA-biotin was administered i.v. for therapy. Tumor growth was significantly inhibited in 3 trials by using 250 microCi (9.25 MBq) of (213)Bi-DOTA-biotin with a pretargeting technique as monitored by serum levels of soluble IL-2R alpha and/or human beta-2-microglobulin (P <.05, t test) and by survival of tumor-bearing mice in the treatment groups (P <.02, log rank test) as compared with the control groups. No prolongation of survival was observed with a nonspecific antibody-SA conjugate or in the absence of the radionuclide. Additionally, no prolongation of survival resulted from administration of (213)Bi directly linked to intact HAT. Furthermore, there was no prolongation of survival when the beta-emitting radionuclide yttrium 90 instead of the alpha-emitting radionuclide (213)Bi was used. The pretargeting approach with (213)Bi inhibited tumor growth more effectively than did immunotherapy with unmodified HAT. The best results were obtained with combination therapy that involved (213)Bi-DOTA-biotin with a pretargeting technique supplemented by 4 weekly doses of HAT. The findings of this study support the use of this combination approach in a clinical trial in patients with IL-2R alpha-expressing leukemias.


Anisakis simplex allergy after eating chicken meat.
Allergic reactions to food can be produced by contaminants that induce sensitization. Among these, Anisakis simplex can cause seafood infestation, and allergic symptoms (urticaria-angioedema, anaphylaxis, and asthma) can follow the eating or handling of affected fish. Although seafood is the principal source of human infections by this parasite, we have found allergic symptoms in 8 patients previously diagnosed as having A simplex sensitization after they ate chicken meat. Chicken feed usually has a high proportion of fishmeal, which might possibly be contaminated by this nematode. The aim of our study was to determine whether parasite proteins present in chicken meat could be responsible for the symptoms reported by these subjects. We carried out in vivo tests (prick, bronchial challenge, and double-blind placebo-controlled challenge with meat chicken) in these 8 patients. We performed immunoblotting using the sera from the 8 patients and controls in order to detect A simplex sensitization. We also investigated the presence of A simplex proteins in sera from chickens fed with fishmeal and in other sera from chickens fed only with cereals. We excluded sensitization to other chicken nematodes by serologic methods. All 8 patients presented positive prick and challenges to A simplex. When we used serum from chickens fed with fishmeal as the antigen in blotting, patients 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 recognized a band of 16 kd, also obtained when using pools of fish-shellfish and A simplex larva. No detection was observed with sera from chickens fed with only cereals. We provide evidence, based on in vivo and in vitro tests, that subjects highly sensitized to A simplex can detect the presence of Anisakis species allergens in chicken meat.


Risk factors for the displacement of fractures of both bones of the forearm in children.
Forearm fractures in children have a tendency to displace in a cast leading to malunion with reduced functional and cosmetic results. In order to identify risk factors for displacement, a total of 247 conservatively treated fractures of the forearm in 246 children with a mean age of 7.3 years (sd 3.2; 0.9 to 14.9) were included in a prospective multicentre study. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess risk factors for displacement of reduced or non-reduced fractures in the cast. Displacement occurred in 73 patients (29.6%), of which 65 (89.0%) were in above-elbow casts. The mean time between the injury and displacement was 22.7 days (0 to 59). The independent factors found to significantly increase the risk of displacement were a fracture of the non-dominant arm (p = 0.024), a complete fracture (p = 0.040), a fracture with translation of the ulna on lateral radiographs (p = 0.014) and shortening of the fracture (p = 0.019). Fractures of both forearm bones in children have a strong tendency to displace even in an above-elbow cast. Severe fractures of the non-dominant arm are at highest risk for displacement. Radiographs at set times during treatment might identify early displacement, which should be treated before malunion occurs, especially in older children with less potential for remodelling.


The RIPper, a web-based tool for genome-wide quantification of Repeat-Induced Point (RIP) mutations.
The RIPper (http://theripper.hawk.rocks) is a set of web-based tools designed for analyses of Repeat-Induced Point (RIP) mutations in the genome sequences of Ascomycota. The RIP pathway is a fungal genome defense mechanism that is aimed at identifying repeated and duplicated motifs, into which it then introduces cytosine to thymine transition mutations. RIP thus serves to deactivate and counteract the deleterious consequences of selfish or mobile DNA elements in fungal genomes. The occurrence, genetic context and frequency of RIP mutations are widely used to assess the activity of this pathway in genomic regions of interest. Here, we present a bioinformatics tool that is specifically fashioned to automate the investigation of changes in RIP product and substrate nucleotide frequencies in fungal genomes. We demonstrated the ability of The RIPper to detect the occurrence and extent of RIP mutations in known RIP affected sequences. Specifically, a sliding window approach was used to perform genome-wide RIP analysis on the genome assembly of Neurospora crassa. Additionally, fine-scale analysis with The RIPper showed that gene regions and transposable element sequences, previously determined to be affected by RIP, were indeed characterized by high frequencies of RIP mutations. Data generated using this software further showed that large proportions of the N. crassa genome constitutes RIP mutations with extensively affected regions displaying reduced GC content. The RIPper was further useful for investigating and visualizing changes in RIP mutations across the length of sequences of interest, allowing for fine-scale analyses. This software identified RIP targeted genomic regions and provided RIP statistics for an entire genome assembly, including the genomic proportion affected by RIP. Here, we present The RIPper as an efficient tool for genome-wide RIP analyses.


How the Emotional Environment Shapes the Emotional Life of the Child.
Emotion understanding facilitates the development of healthy social interactions. To develop emotion knowledge, infants and young children must learn to make inferences about people's dynamically changing facial and vocal expressions in the context of their everyday lives. Given that emotional information varies so widely, the emotional input that children receive might particularly shape their emotion understanding over time. This review explores how variation in children's received emotional input shapes their emotion understanding and their emotional behavior over the course of development. Variation in emotional input from caregivers shapes individual differences in infants' emotion perception and understanding, as well as older children's emotional behavior. Finally, this work can inform policy and focus interventions designed to help infants and young children with social-emotional development.


[Reversed C.P.C.: Aggressive NK-cell leukemia/lymphoma].
While natural killer(NK)-cell type granular lymphocyte-proliferative disorders(GLPD) generally represent benign disorders, acute NK-cell leukemia/lymphoma is a rare but a very aggressive disorder. We report a case characterized by an extranodal(nasal) and bone marrow infiltration of large granular lymphocyte morphology, CD3-CD16-CD56+ phenotype. The patient's course became severe and refractory. Multiorgan failure, associated with intravascular coagulation syndrome was the main cause of death.


Mediterranean diet and coronary heart disease: is obesity a link? - A systematic review.
Adherence to a healthy dietary pattern, such as the Mediterranean diet, exerts a beneficial role regarding the development of coronary heart disease. In addition, several studies support the protective role of the Mediterranean diet as far as obesity is concerned. This review, examining results from prospective cohort and cross-sectional studies, as well as clinical trials, aims to clarify whether the beneficial effect of the Mediterranean dietary pattern on coronary heart disease is due to the impact of this diet on weight loss and obesity status or an independent effect. 35 original-research studies that were published in English until 2009, selected through a computer-assisted literature search are discussed, from which 3 were prospective, 11 were cross-sectional studies, and 21 were clinical trials. Although not all studies show a protective effect of the Mediterranean diet on body weight and obesity, the evidence suggests a possible beneficial role of this dietary pattern. Thus the Mediterranean diet protects against the development of coronary heart disease not only because of its beneficial role regarding cardiovascular risk factors, but also due to a possible effect on body weight and obesity.


Bivalirudin decreases NO bioavailability by vascular immobilization of myeloperoxidase.
Bivalirudin, a direct thrombin inhibitor, has emerged as an important alternative to heparin in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention. However, it remains elusive if potentially adverse extracoagulant properties are responsible for the fact that its favorable effects in clinical studies are mainly driven by a reduction in bleeding events. The aim of the current study was to determine the effects and mechanisms of acute treatment with bivalirudin in comparison to heparin on NO bioavailability, an important factor for the pathogenesis of ischemic events. In particular, we studied the interaction between bivalirudin and myeloperoxidase (MPO), a leukocyte-derived enzyme that consumes endothelial-derived nitric oxide (NO), modifies a variety of biological targets, and thus affects the integrity of the vessel wall. In patients undergoing elective percutaneous coronary intervention, bivalirudin, in contrast to heparin, exhibited a significant decrease in plasma MPO levels (p = 0.03) accompanied by a deterioration of flow-mediated dilation (p = 0.02), a surrogate for endothelial NO bioavailability. In vitro experiments revealed avid binding of bivalirudin to both bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC) and MPO. Methylation of bivalirudin carboxyl groups at the carboxyl-terminal end revealed the specific binding site of bivalirudin to MPO. Bivalirudin-facilitated binding of MPO to BAEC resulted also in functional changes in terms of increased NO consumption as well as enhanced MPO-mediated redox modifications. These results illustrate dichotomous extracoagulant properties of heparins and thrombin inhibitors and suggest that bivalirudin acutely impairs endothelial NO bioavailability, thereby underscoring the potentially critical role of MPO as a mediator of vascular function.


Portal vein injuries. Noninvasive follow-up of venorrhaphy.
The authors report their experience with 14 patients with portal vein injuries (1976-1986) treated at a level I trauma center. Seven patients (50%) survived and included six of 10 patients (60%) who had venorrhaphy and one in whom the portal vein was ligated. Associated injuries were present in all the patients (mean Abdominal Trauma Index: 39.5) and accounted for the high mortality rate. Follow-up data after repair or ligation of the portal vein seldom are reported in the literature. The authors studied all three patients who survived portal venorrhaphy since 1982 by real-time ultrasonography. Patency of the repair could be established in two patients. In the third patient postvenorrhaphy thrombosis was diagnosed by ultrasonographic examination. Sequential ultrasonographic examinations demonstrated resolution of the thrombus on anticoagulant therapy. Ultrasonography provides a noninvasive and easily reproducible method of studying the portal vein after repair.


On the gas phase hydrogen bond complexes between formic acid and hydroperoxyl radical. A theoretical study.
We present a systematic study on the gas-phase hydrogen-bonded complexes formed between formic acid and hydroperoxyl radical, which has been carried out by using B3LYP and CCSD(T) theoretical approaches in connection with the 6-311+G(2df,2p) basis set. For all complexes we have employed the AIM theory by Bader and the NBO partition scheme by Weinhold to analyze the bonding features. We have found 17 stationary points, and 11 of them present a cyclic structure. Their computed stabilities vary from 0.3 to 11.3 kcal/mol, depending on several factors, such as involvement in the hydrogen bond interaction, the geometrical constraints, and the possible concurrence of further effects such as resonance-assisted hydrogen bonds or inductive effects. In addition, three stationary points correspond to transition structures involving a double proton-transfer process whose features are also analyzed.


Hydrogels-Assisted Cell Engraftment for Repairing the Stroke-Damaged Brain: Chimera or Reality.
The use of advanced biomaterials as a structural and functional support for stem cells-based therapeutic implants has boosted the development of tissue engineering applications in multiple clinical fields. In relation to neurological disorders, we are still far from the clinical reality of restoring normal brain function in neurodegenerative diseases and cerebrovascular disorders. Hydrogel polymers show unique mechanical stiffness properties in the range of living soft tissues such as nervous tissue. Furthermore, the use of these polymers drastically enhances the engraftment of stem cells as well as their capacity to produce and deliver neuroprotective and neuroregenerative factors in the host tissue. Along this article, we review past and current trends in experimental and translational research to understand the opportunities, benefits, and types of tentative hydrogel-based applications for the treatment of cerebral disorders. Although the use of hydrogels for brain disorders has been restricted to the experimental area, the current level of knowledge anticipates an intense development of this field to reach clinics in forthcoming years.


Occult surgical glove perforations in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery.
With the advent of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome crisis, it has become imperative that all surgeons minimize their risk of direct contact with the patient's body fluids. In the course of performing surgery, perforations are frequently created in surgical gloves, which often go unnoticed. This study determined the frequency with which occult glove perforations occurred in 134 consecutive head and neck surgical procedures. One thousand fifty gloves (650 gloves used in surgery, 400 unused control gloves) were analyzed for the presence of perforations large enough to permit the passage of fluid. An unrecognized glove perforation was detected in 25% of surgical cases. The duration of surgery correlated strongly and positively with the incidence of perforation. Perforation rates varied widely for specific types of procedures, and are reported for each of the five subdivisions within otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. The implications of these results are described, and recommendations for the use of protective measures, especially in reference to the use of double-gloving, are made.


Impact of intrarectal chromofungin treatment on dendritic cells-related markers in different immune compartments in colonic inflammatory conditions.
Chromofungin (CHR: chromogranin-A 47-66) is a chromogranin-A derived peptide with anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is characterized by a colonic decrease of CHR and a dysregulation of dendritic CD11c+ cells. To investigate the association between CHR treatment and dendritic cells (DCs)-related markers in different immune compartments in colitis. A model of acute UC-like colitis using dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) was used in addition to biopsies collected from UC patients. Intrarectal CHR treatment reduced the severity of DSS-induced colitis and was associated with a significant decrease in the expression of CD11c, CD40, CD80, CD86 and interleukin (IL)-12p40 in the inflamed colonic mucosa and CD11c, CD80, CD86 IL-6 and IL-12p40 within the mesenteric lymph nodes and the spleen. Furthermore, CHR treatment decreased CD80 and CD86 expression markers of splenic CD11c+ cells and decreased NF-κB expression in the colon and of splenic CD11c+ cells. In vitro, CHR decreased CD40, CD80, CD86 IL-6 and IL-12p40 expression in naïve bone marrow-derived CD11c+ DCs stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. Pharmacological studies demonstrated an impact of CHR on the NF-κB pathway. In patients with active UC, CHR level was reduced and showed a negative linear relationship with CD11c and CD86. CHR has protective properties against intestinal inflammation via the regulation of DC-related markers and CD11c+ cells. CHR could be a potential therapy of UC.


Combination of submicroemulsion and phospholipid complex for novel delivery of ursodeoxycholic acid.
The objective of this study was to prepare and characterize ursodeoxycholic acid submicron emulsion (UA-SME) loaded with ursodeoxycholic acid phytosomes (UA-PS) and optimize the process variables. A screening experiment with response surface methodology with Box-Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimize the process parameters of UA-SME. The blood concentrations of UA after oral administration of UA-SME and UA coarse drug were assayed. The optimum process conditions were finally obtained by using a desirability function. It was found that stirring velocity, homogenization pressure and homogenization cycles were the most important variables that affected the particles size, polydispersity index and entrapment efficiency of UA-SME. Results showed that the optimum stirring velocity, homogenization pressure and cycles were 16 000 rpm, 60 MPa and 10 cycles, respectively. The mean diameter, polydispersity index and entrapment efficiency of UA-SME were 251.9 nm, 0.241 and 74.36%, respectively. Pharmacokinetic parameters of UA and UA-SME in rats were Tmax 2.215 and 1.489 h, Cmax 0.0364 and 0.1562 μg/mL, AUC0-∞ 3.682 and 13.756 μg h/mL, respectively. The bioavailability of UA in rats was significantly different (p < 0.05) after oral administration of UA-SME compared to those of UA coarse drug. This was due to improvement of the hydrophilicity and lipophilic property of UA-SME.


Design of Metasurface with Nanoslits on Elliptical Curves for Generation of Dual-Channel Vector Beams.
The manipulations of nanoscale multi-channel vector beams (VBs) by metasurfaces hold potential applications in various important fields. In this paper, the metasurface with two sets of nanoslits arranged on elliptic curves was proposed to generate the dual-channel focused vector beams (FVBs). Each set of nanoslits was composed of the in-phase and the out-of-phase groups of nanoslits to introduce the constructive interference and destructive interference of the output light field of the nanoslits, focusing the converted spin component and eliminating the incident spin component at the focal point. The two sets of nanoslits for the channels at the two focal points were interleaved on the same ellipses, and by setting their parameters independently, the FVBs in the two channels are generated under illumination of linearly polarized light, while their orders and polarization states of FVBs were controlled independently. The generation of the FVBs with the designed metasurfaces was demonstrated by the finite-difference time domain (FDTD) simulations and by the experimental verifications. The work in this paper is of great significance for the generation of miniaturized multi-channel VBs and for broadening the applications of metasurfaces.


[Libido-related changes in the elderly].
Sexual desire can be influenced in elderly men by a number of factors such as hormonal abnormalities, socio-cultural conditions, chronic diseases, drugs. Testosterone decrease per se is not sufficient to impair sexual function in the elderly; social and psychological factors are probably of relevance as it can be observed in people living in nursing homes. Diabetes may have a major impact on sexual desire. Drugs usually associated with impairment of libido (psychotropic drugs, anti-hypertensives) are frequently used by elderly people; alcohol is a leading cause of sexual dysfunction, particularly in unfavourable social conditions.


Calix[4]arene methylenebisphosphonic acids as calf intestine alkaline phosphatase inhibitors.
Calix[4]arenes bearing one or two methylenebisphosphonic acid fragments were prepared via addition of diethylphosphite to the parent calix[4]arene aldehydes. The resulting compounds displayed stronger inhibition of calf intestine alkaline phosphatase than simple methylenebisphosphonic or 4-hydroxyphenyl methylenebisphosphonic acids. The action of these phosphorylated calix[4]arenes is concordant with partial mixed-type inhibition. The inhibition constants Ki and Ki' for the calix[4]arene bis(methylenebisphosphonic) acid in Tris-HCl buffer at pH 9 are 0.38 microM and 2.8 microM respectively. The replacement of the phosphoric acid moieties on the macrocycle with diethylphosphonates results in a sharp decrease of its inhibitory action. Preorganizing phosphonic acid fragments using a calixarene platform therefore provides a promising approach for the design of efficient alkaline phosphatase inhibitors.


Adjuvant effect of a 14-member macrolide antibiotic on DNA vaccine.
Macrolide antibiotics have unique immunomodulatory actions apart from their antimicrobial properties. We examined the effect of erythromycin (EM), a 14-member macrolide, on the immune response to a DNA vaccine that induces a T-helper-1 (Th1)-biased immune response through a Th1-promoting adjuvant effect of unmethylated CpG motifs within plasmid DNA. EM enhanced Th1 responses in plasmid DNA-immunized mice as measured by antigen-specific IgG2a antibody production, interferon-gamma production by antigen-specific CD4(+) T cells, and cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses. EM augmented the accessory cell activity of unmethylated CpG DNA-stimulated antigen-presenting cells (APCs), suggesting that EM enhances Th1 responses to a DNA vaccine, possibly through augmentation of accessory cell activity of APCs stimulated with CpG motifs within plasmid DNA.


A fast and robust dual-label nonradioactive oligonucleotide ligation assay for detection of factor V Leiden.
Activated protein C resistance is in almost all cases caused by the factor V Leiden mutation (FV:R506Q). Due to the high prevalence and clinical significance of the mutation reliable methods suited for processing large sets of samples are in demand. We here present the oligonucleotide ligation assay (OLA) with lanthanide labeled oligonucleotides for the detection of FV Leiden. The assay is based on time resolved fluorescence measurement of lanthanide labeled oligonucleotides (DELFIA: Delayed Enhanced Lanthanide Fluorescence Immuno Assay) and on the specificity of T-4 DNA Ligase to join two adjacent oligonucleotides only when the two are complementary to the PCR template at the ligation junction. The Europium/Samarium fluorescence pattern is specific for each of the three genotypes (G/G, G/A, A/A) and clearly separates the three genotypes. By using a wildtype probe (Samarium labeled) and a mutant-specific probe (Europium labeled) simultaneously an internal control of the assay is included in each reaction. The assay is simple to perform, can be partly automated and is ideal for processing large sets of samples.


The role of timing of high-dose cytosine arabinoside intensification and of maintenance therapy in the treatment of children with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia.
The Children's Cancer Study Group instituted a pilot study to investigate the use of high doses of cytosine arabinoside (AraC) in the intensification phase of treatment for acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL). Patients achieving remission and not eligible for allogeneic bone marrow transplantation were treated with four doses of high-dose AraC and L-asparaginase. These drugs were repeated either on or after 28 days (q28 days), after recovery of hematologic parameters (for the first 49 patients entered onto this trial); or after 7 days (q7 days), despite dropping blood counts (for the last 53 patients enrolled). After completing an additional 3 months of intensification therapy, patients were then allocated by physician choice to either discontinue therapy or receive 18 28-day cycles of maintenance therapy, including the daily administration of 6-thioguanine. Despite three deaths associated with the toxicity of the aggressive (q7 days) AraC timing, patients receiving this approach demonstrated equal or better disease-free survival from the end of induction (55% versus 42% actuarially at 3 years [P = 0.52]). Maintenance therapy appeared to play no role in improving outcome for people who received the aggressive timing of AraC cycles. Fifty-nine percent were alive disease free actuarially at 3 years from the decision to not give maintenance therapy (n = 27) compared with 62% for those receiving maintenance therapy (n = 16; P = 0.49). On the other hand, patients who received the less aggressive AraC intensification timing (q28 days) had an improved survival rate if maintenance therapy was administered (n = 17) (65% versus 39% for patients not receiving maintenance therapy [n = 24] at 3 years [P = 0.07]). Maintenance therapy therefore may not improve outcome in patients receiving aggressive timing of high-dose AraC but may be important in less intensive postremission regimens in childhood ANLL.


Adhesive performance of precoated brackets after expiration.
To evaluate adhesive performance in terms of debonding forces of precoated metal and ceramic brackets 4 years after expiration. Buccal and lingual surfaces of embedded extracted maxillary premolars were etched with 34% Tooth Conditioner Gel (Dentsply Caulk, Milford, Del), rinsed, and dried. Transbond MIP (3M Unitek, Monrovia, Calif) was applied prior to placing adhesive precoated brackets (APC II Victory stainless steel and APC Plus Clarity ceramic brackets, 3M Unitek). The preexpiration brackets had 29-35 months before, and the postexpiration brackets were 45-52 months past, their expiration dates. Sample size was 17-21 per group. Debonding forces were determined by subjecting the bonded brackets to a shear force in a universal testing machine. Debonding forces were compared using two-way ANOVA. Debonded surfaces were examined under a stereomicroscope to determine failure modes, which were compared using the chi-square test. No statistically significant difference was found in debonding forces (P = .8581) or failure modes (P = .4538) between expired and unexpired brackets. Metal brackets required statistically significantly higher debonding forces than did ceramic brackets (P = .0001). For both expired and unexpired brackets, failure modes were mostly cohesive in the adhesive layer for ceramic brackets, and mixed between adhesive and cohesive failure in the adhesive layer for metal brackets. Adhesive precoated brackets did not have any reduction in enamel-adhesion properties up to 4 years after their expiration date. Extended shelf life testing for precoated dental brackets may be worth considering.


Evaluation and analysis of the noise quality of Ambur, Tamil Nadu, India.
The noise levels of Ambur town were studied in silence, residential, commercial and industrial zones. Noise levels were assessed in 22 locations in a typical peak and non-peak hours of a day. In non-peak hours, a gradual decrease in noise levels is detected. The results show that the noise pollution in the city is widespread throughout most of its area. The noise in these areas is composite in nature and generated from many sources near and far with no particular sound predominance. Based on the results, some remedial measures were suggested. Public participation, education, traffic management, structural designing play a major role in noise management.


Occult hepatitis B virus infection in Sudan: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
In its occult form, hepatitis B virus infection can only be detected using molecular techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, increasing the cost of the screening process. Certain population subgroups are considered to have a higher risk of transmission and reactivation of occult hepatitis B virus infection (OBI). This review aims to estimate the prevalence of OBI among these high-risk groups in Sudan. It was conducted under the PRISMA guidelines, targeting the literature available in MEDLINE/PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library databases. Full-text articles published in the last 10 years that provide prevalence estimates of OBI in Sudan were examined for fulfillment of eligibility criteria. Quality assessment of selected articles was performed using the critical appraisal tool reported by Munn et al. Publication bias was assessed by visual examination of the funnel plot. Meta-analysis using the random-effects model with 95% confidence interval was used to calculate the overall and subgroup pooled prevalence of OBI. Literature search yielded a total of 717 studies, of which only 11 articles fulfilled all selection criteria. The overall pooled prevalence of OBI was found to be 15.51%, with a high level of heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis demonstrated a prevalence of 16.48% among blood donors, 13.36% among hemodialysis patients, and 12.59% among febrile patients. Evidence for possible publication bias was detected. This review provides crucial evidence for health authorities in Sudan, outlining the necessity for re-evaluation of the current screening strategies, especially among these high-risk groups.


Effects of Chimonanthus nitens Oliv. Leaf Extract on Glycolipid Metabolism and Antioxidant Capacity in Diabetic Model Mice.
The paper investigated the antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic efficacy and antioxidant capacity of Chimonanthus nitens Oliv. leaf extract (COE) in combination of high-glucose-fat diet-fed and streptozotocin-induced diabetic model mice. Various physiological indexes in diabetic model mice were well improved especially by oral administration of high dose of COE; the results were listed as follows. Fast blood glucose (FBG) level and serum triglyceride (TC), total cholesterol (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC), and malondialdehyde (MDA) as well as MDA in liver were significantly reduced; fasting serum insulin (FINS) and insulin sensitivity index (ISI) were both increased; high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) in serum was significantly increased; total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) in serum and liver were apparently enhanced; liver coefficient (LC), liver transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were decreased. Furthermore, pancreas islets and liver in diabetic model mice showed some extend of improvement in morphology and function after 4 weeks of COE treatment. In consequence, COE was advantageous to regulate glycolipid metabolism and elevate antioxidant capacity in diabetic model mice. Thus, the present study will provide a scientific evidence for the use of COE in the management of diabetes and its related complications.


Nuclear transport of yeast proteasomes.
Proteasomes are conserved protease complexes enriched in the nuclei of dividing yeast cells, a major site for protein degradation. If yeast cells do not proliferate and transit to quiescence, metabolic changes result in the dissociation of proteasomes into proteolytic core and regulatory complexes and their sequestration into motile cytosolic proteasome storage granuli. These granuli rapidly clear with the resumption of growth, releasing the stored proteasomes, which relocalize back to the nucleus to promote cell cycle progression. Here, I report on three models of how proteasomes are transported from the cytoplasm into the nucleus of yeast cells. The first model applies for dividing yeast and is based on the canonical pathway using classical nuclear localization sequences of proteasomal subcomplexes and the classical import receptor importin/karyopherin αβ. The second model applies for quiescent yeast cells, which resume growth and use Blm10, a HEAT-like repeat protein structurally related to karyopherin β, for nuclear import of proteasome core particles. In the third model, the fully-assembled proteasome is imported into the nucleus. Our still marginal knowledge about proteasome dynamics will inspire the discussion on how protein degradation by proteasomes may be regulated in different cellular compartments of dividing and quiescent eukaryotic cells.


The biochemical properties of the mitochondrial thiamine pyrophosphate carrier from Drosophila melanogaster.
The mitochondrial carriers are a family of transport proteins that shuttle metabolites, nucleotides and cofactors across the inner mitochondrial membrane. The genome of Drosophila melanogaster encodes at least 46 members of this family. Only five of these have been characterized, whereas the transport functions of the remainder cannot be assessed with certainty. In the present study, we report the functional identification of two D. melanogaster genes distantly related to the human and yeast thiamine pyrophosphate carrier (TPC) genes as well as the corresponding expression pattern throughout development. Furthermore, the functional characterization of the D. melanogaster mitochondrial thiamine pyrophosphate carrier protein (DmTpc1p) is described. DmTpc1p was over-expressed in bacteria, the purified protein was reconstituted into liposomes, and its transport properties and kinetic parameters were characterized. Reconstituted DmTpc1p transports thiamine pyrophosphate and, to a lesser extent, pyrophosphate, ADP, ATP and other nucleotides. The expression of DmTpc1p in Saccharomyces cerevisiaeTPC1 null mutant abolishes the growth defect on fermentable carbon sources. The main role of DmTpc1p is to import thiamine pyrophosphate into mitochondria by exchange with intramitochondrial ATP and/or ADP.


Transience of the Retinal Output Is Determined by a Great Variety of Circuit Elements.
Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) encrypt stimulus features of the visual scene in action potentials and convey them toward higher visual centers in the brain. Although there are many visual features to encode, our recent understanding is that the ~46 different functional subtypes of RGCs in the retina share this task. In this scheme, each RGC subtype establishes a separate, parallel signaling route for a specific visual feature (e.g., contrast, the direction of motion, luminosity), through which information is conveyed. The efficiency of encoding depends on several factors, including signal strength, adaptational levels, and the actual efficacy of the underlying retinal microcircuits. Upon collecting inputs across their respective receptive field, RGCs perform further analysis (e.g., summation, subtraction, weighting) before they generate the final output spike train, which itself is characterized by multiple different features, such as the number of spikes, the inter-spike intervals, response delay, and the rundown time (transience) of the response. These specific kinetic features are essential for target postsynaptic neurons in the brain in order to effectively decode and interpret signals, thereby forming visual perception. We review recent knowledge regarding circuit elements of the mammalian retina that participate in shaping RGC response transience for optimal visual signaling.


Flow cytometry detection and evaluation of bladder tumors.
The diagnosis and classification of bladder cancer are based primarily on histologic and cytologic light microscopy. The significant cytologic alternations are abnormal (increased) DNA content and structural changes in chromatin. Measurements of DNA content carried out by flow cytometry on suspensions of tumor cells and bladder irrigation specimens correlate well with clinical and biopsy findings. Badalament et al (Badalament RA, Kimmel M, Gay H, et al. Cancer 1987;59:2078-2085) reported that a single bladder wash flow cytometry correctly detected 83% of bladder cancers. The technique is most sensitive in detecting early, in situ, and superficially invasive carcinoma. In 100 urologic patients with non-neoplastic disease of the bladder, Klein et al (Klein FA, Herr HW, Sogani PC, et al. J Urol. 1982;127:946-948) reported only two false-positive examinations. Flow cytometry appears to be at least as valuable as conventional urinary cytology, without the need of an experienced cytopathologist. However, as specimens must be collected by bladder irrigation via catheter or cytoscope, the technique is most suitable not for population screening, but in monitoring high-risk populations: industrial workers or others exposed to carcinogens, persons with a history of urothelial tumors, and adult patients referred for urologic examinations because of hematuria, unexplained, recurrent cystitis, or other urologic symptoms. DNA flow cytometry also has been valuable in monitoring the conservative treatment of bladder cancer and of predictive value in the intravesical bacille Calmette-Guérin treatment of superficial carcinomas of the bladder. Dual parameter measurements of DNA content and antigen expression are now under evaluation, as are measurements of chromatin structure alteration, metabolism, and proliferative rate. These promise to discriminate subsets of bladder cancer that may be predictive of clinical behavior.


[Experiment study about effect of Yinqiao detoxifcation oral liquid on natural killer cells and TNF-alpha, TGF-beta1 of BALB/C nude mouse infected by influenza virus].
To explore the effect of Yinqiao detoxifcation oral liquid on activity of natural killer cells (NK) and serum content of TNF-alpha, TGF-beta1 of BALB/C nude mouse infected by influenza virus. To establish infected mice model by FM1 followed by intragastric administration of Yinqiao detoxifcation oral liquid for treatment. LDH method was used to observe NK cells. ELISA method was used to determine the levels of TNF-alpha, TGF-beta1, in serum on 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th days after infection. Comparing to the normal group, the NK activity of the model group was significantly increased on 1 dpi (day post infection), and significantly decreased on 3, 5, 7 dpi. The NK activity of three dosage groups (5, 10, 20 g x kg(-1)) of Yinqiao detoxifcation oral liquid were respectively higher than that of the model on 3, 5, 7 dpi, especially with high dose (P < 0.01). The serum level of TNF-alpha and TGF-beta1 of model group is higher than that of normal group on 1, 3, 5, 7 d. Compared with model group, the serum level of Yinqiao detoxifcation oral liquid groups (5, 10, 20 g x kg(-1)) were decreased in different degree on every time point, especially the serum level of the higher dose of Yinqiao detoxifcation oral liquid decreased on 3 dpi (P < 0.05), Yinqiao detoxifcation oral liquid inhibit the serum level of TGF-beta1 in a dose-dependent manner. Yinqiao detoxifcation oral liquid could enhance the activity of NK cell and decrease the serum level of TNF-alpha and TGF-beta1 of the mice infected by influenza virus.


A prototype for an economical vertical microstomia orthosis.
One of the complications of thermal injury is the development of scars and contractures during the healing process. This scarring can be devastating, especially when it involves the mouth. The purpose of this report is to describe the construction of an alternative vertical mouth stretching orthosis for vertical microstomia. By using thermoplastic splinting material and a long thread screw, a vertical mouth-stretching orthosis can be custom-fit to any patient's mouth. The device can be fabricated for a pediatric or adult patient for the rehabilitation of a circumferential mouth burn, especially targeting the vertical diameter. When using this device, patients gave positive feedback for comfort and ease of use, with increased mouth mobility and range of motion. This vertical orthotic device provides an economical and comfortable alternative for vertical mouth diameter enlargement to the current five devices available in the literature.


Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from biomass conversion.
Biomass has incredible potential as an alternative to fossil fuels for energy production that is sustainable for the future of humanity. Hydrogen evolution from photocatalytic biomass conversion not only produces valuable carbon-free energy in the form of molecular hydrogen but also provides an avenue of production for industrially relevant biomass products. This photocatalytic conversion can be realized with efficient, sustainable reaction materials (biomass) and inexhaustible sunlight as the only energy inputs. Reported herein is a general strategy and mechanism for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from biomass and biomass-derived substrates (including ethanol, glycerol, formic acid, glucose, and polysaccharides). Recent advancements in the synthesis and fundamental physical/mechanistic studies of novel photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution from biomass conversion are summarized. Also summarized are recent advancements in hydrogen evolution efficiency regarding biomass and biomass-derived substrates. Special emphasis is given to methods that utilize unprocessed biomass as a substrate or synthetic photocatalyst material, as the development of such will incur greater benefits towards a sustainable route for the evolution of hydrogen and production of chemical feedstocks.


Analysis of the mechanisms of human cytotoxic T lymphocyte response inhibition by NO.
NO is a potent cellular mediator which has been shown to modulate several immune mechanisms. Using human T lymphocytes as responder cells in a primary mixed lymphocyte reaction, we demonstrated that, at the initiation of the culture, exogenously provided NO via sodium nitroprusside, in non-toxic concentrations, inhibited both allogeneic proliferative and primary cytotoxic responses in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, it had no effect on the cytotoxic activity of established human TCR (alpha)beta and TCR (gamma)delta cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) clones. The NO inhibitory effect on primary cytotoxic T cell response correlates with inhibition of T cell blastogenesis. Furthermore, under our stimulation conditions, NO induced an inhibition of IL-2 production, an alteration of IL-2R(alpha) expression, and a down-regulation of NF-AT translocation in CD4(+) and CD8(+)allostimulated T cells. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the inhibition of allospecific CTL activity by the NO donor was at least in part related to an inhibition of granzyme B and Fas ligand transcription as revealed respectively by RNase protection and RT-PCR analysis. These results suggest that NO may function to fine tune human CD3(+) T cell activation and subsequent CTL generation.


Embedded, Fully Spray-Coated Pressure Sensor Using a Capacitive Transducing Mechanism.
Embedding functional sensor layers directly into mechanical systems in heavy-duty surroundings facilitate the real-time monitoring of the system's state. This work presents a fully-spray coated pressure sensor that is suitable for applications in the high pressure range. It is embedded into functionalized organic coatings that additionally act as a dielectric for the capacitive sensing mechanism. The sensitivity of the sensor, as well as its long-time stability, has been determined. Additionally, testing has been performed at elevated temperatures to determine the temperature dependent sensitivity that arises from the temperature dependence of the Young's moduli.


Materials for sustained and controlled release of nutrients and molecules to support plant growth.
Controlled release fertilizers (CRFs) are a branch of materials that are designed to improve the soil release kinetics of chemical fertilizers to address problems stemming losses from runoff or other factors. Current CRFs are used but only in a limited market due to relatively high costs and doubts about their abilities to result in higher yields and increased profitability for agricultural businesses. New technologies are emerging that promise to improve the efficacy of CRFs to add additional functionality and reduce cost to make CRFs a more viable alternative to traditional chemical fertilizer treatment. CRFs that offer ways of reducing air and water pollution from fertilizer treatments, improving the ability of plants to access required nutrients, improving water retention to increase drought resistance, and reducing the amount of fertilizer needed to provide maximum crop yields are under development. A wide variety of different strategies are being considered to tackle this problem, and each approach offers different advantages and drawbacks. Agricultural industries will soon be forced to move toward more efficient and sustainable practices to respond to increasing fertilizer cost and desire for sustainable growing practices. CRFs have the potential to solve many problems in agriculture and help enable this shift while maintaining profitability.


Clinical profile of hypertension at a University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria.
Hypertension in Nigeria is a widespread problem of immense social and economic importance because of its high prevalence and the severity of its complications. To define the morbidity and mortality pattern of hypertension at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH). Records of all patients admitted to the medical wards of the UPTH over a 5-year period with essential hypertension or any of its complications were retrieved from the ward and medical records and reviewed. A total of 780 hypertensive patients were reviewed, constituting 28.2% of all medical admissions. Only 424 (15.2%) had complete records and were analyzed. Record keeping was poor. There were 173 (41%) males and 251 (59%) females with a male to female ratio of 1:1.5. The ages ranged from 18 years to 100 years with a mean of 56.5 +/- 16.2. Stroke was responsible for 169 (39.9%) hypertensive complications. Heart failure occurred in 97 (22%) cases while renal failure and encephalopathy accounted for 40 (9.4%) and 7 (1.7%) hypertensive complications respectively. There were 99 deaths out of which 51 (51.5%) were due to stroke, 14 (14.12%) were due to heart failure, and 12 (12.1%) were due to renal failure. The contribution of systemic hypertension to the morbidity and mortality of adults at UPTH is quite significant.


Biomaterial-associated infection of gentamicin-loaded PMMA beads in orthopaedic revision surgery.
In two-stage orthopaedic revision surgery, high local levels of antibiotics are achieved after removal of an infected prosthesis through temporary implantation of gentamicin-loaded beads. However, despite their antibiotic release, these beads act as a biomaterial surface to which bacteria preferentially adhere, grow and potentially develop antibiotic resistance. Gentamicin-loaded beads were retrieved from 20 patients with prosthesis-related infections. Excised tissue samples were taken for routine culture, while beads were analysed in an extensive laboratory procedure. Extensive culture procedures indicated the presence of bacteria on gentamicin-loaded beads in 18 of the 20 patients involved, while 12 of these 18 patients were considered free of infection by routine culture. Nineteen of 28 bacterial strains isolated were gentamicin resistant and cultures from three patients yielded highly gentamicin-resistant sub-populations. It is concluded that routine culture of excised tissues in orthopaedic revision surgery is inadequate to ascertain full eradication of infection, especially as infecting, antibiotic-resistant bacteria preferentially adhere to and grow on gentamicin-loaded beads. Extensive examination of the bead surfaces is proposed as a more reliable indication that infection has been eradicated.


[The research of the pathogen responsible for Pleurocybella porrigens related encephalopathy: investigation of 3-nitropropionic acid hypothesis].
Pleurocybella porrigens related encephalopathy exhibits consciousness disturbance and convulsion in the patients after taking and patients show bilateral basal ganglia lesion resulted in high mortality rate. This encephalopathy is a very similar to the moldy sugarcane encephalopathy epidemic in China in the past. We investigated the relationship between Pleurocybella porrigens related encephalopathy and 3-nitropropionic acid which had caused the moldy sugarcane encephalopathy. We have tried to detect 3-NPA in the various specimens from patients and Pleurocybella porrigens, but failed. Further examinations for elucidating the causation of Pleurocybella porrigens related encephalopathy are needed.


Effects of perinatal exposure to bisphenol A on sociosexual behavior of female and male rats.
Perinatal action of estrogens or aromatizable steroids at the central nervous system level is responsible for brain sexual differentiation. Through early contact with the central nervous system, the estrogenic compound bisphenol A (BPA) could alter the processes affecting sociosexual behavior. To test this hypothesis, we studied agonistic and sexual behavior of adult female and male rats whose mothers were administered BPA (40 microg/kg/day) during pregnancy or lactation. An intruder test revealed in males but not in females an increase in defensive behavior due to BPA. We studied the effect of BPA on sexual behavior by testing sexual orientation and sexual activity. Male sexual orientation toward a stimulus female was not affected by BPA, whereas the sexual activity test revealed a slight impairment of sexual performance due to BPA in terms of latency and frequency of intromissions. In females, BPA produced a small increase in sexual motivation and receptive behavior. In conclusion, BPA administration, both during pregnancy and during lactation, does not masculinize female behavior or potentiate masculinization processes of males. On the contrary, we observed a potentiation of female behavior in females and a depotentiation of male behavior in males.


Well-being right before and after a permanent nursing home admission.
Permanent nursing home (NH) admissions are a frequent and major life event aimed at maintaining quality of life in old age. Yet, insights into the impact of a NH admission on well-being are scarce and inconclusive. We evaluate the effect of a NH admission on domains of well-being among those who are admitted using event study methodology for cross-sections combined with inverse probability weighting. We apply this doubly robust approach to Dutch survey data on well-being linked to extensive administrative data on NH admissions, health, and socio-economic status. We find that a NH admission leads to a temporary increase in loneliness, the risk of anxiety and depression, and a loss of control over one's life. However, these scores revert to pre-admission levels after 6 months. These findings may contribute to better-informed individual-level and policy decisions about potential NH entry and aging in place policies.


The effects of age on remembering and knowing misinformation.
Previous research has suggested that older adults are more susceptible to misleading information. The current experiments examined the nature of older and younger participants' conscious experience of contradictory and additive misinformation (Experiment 1), and misinformation about a memorable or non-memorable item (Experiment 2). Participants watched a video of a burglary before answering questions about the event that contained misinformation. Participants then completed a cued recall task whereby they answered questions and indicated whether they remembered the item, knew the item, or were guessing. The results indicated that older adults were less likely to remember or know the original item in comparison to younger adults but were also more likely to know misinformation than younger adults. This pattern occurred for contradictory misinformation and misleading information about memorable and non-memorable items. Only additive misinformation was associated with more remember responses for older but not younger adults.


HIV incidence and prevalence among aboriginal peoples in Canada.
We examined incidence, prevalence, and correlates of HIV infection in Aboriginal peoples in Canada and found that among most risk groups both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal participants showed similar levels of HIV prevalence. Aboriginal peoples who use illicit drugs were found to have higher HIV incidence and prevalence when compared to their non-Aboriginal drug-using peers. Aboriginal street youth and female sex workers were also found to have higher HIV prevalence. Among Aboriginal populations, correlates of HIV-positive sero-status include syringe sharing and frequently injecting drugs, as well as geographic and social factors such as living in Vancouver or having a history of non-consensual sex. This study is relevant to Canada and elsewhere, as Indigenous populations are disproportionately represented in the HIV epidemic worldwide.


Microbiological and Sensory Tests of Beef Treated with Acetic and Formic Acids 1, 2.
One-centimeter cubes of the semimembranosus and adductor muscles of beef were inoculated with 5.2 × 106 of Salmonella typhimurium , Shigella sonnei , Yersinia enterocolitica , Escherichia coli , Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Streptococcus faecalis . Exposure of the meat by dipping in 1.2% acetic acid for 10 s reduced averge numbers recoverable of these bacteria by 65%. E. coli was the most resistant, losing 46% of its viable cells. One-half of the acetic acid was replaced with 0.046% formic acid without loss in effectiveness. The rate of increase in antimicrobial effects of the treatment declined with time. Discoloration of the meat occurred after dipping in both 1.2% acetic acid, and 0.6% acetic plus 0.046% formic acids for 10 s. In triangle tests of flavor, panelists failed to differentiate samples of baked ground beef treated (before grinding) with 0.6% acetic acid and 0.046% formic acid from controls dipped in water (P<0.05). However, the same type of test showed a significant flavor difference between meat dipped in 1.2% acetic acid or distilled water.


dsRNA sensors and plasmacytoid dendritic cells in host defense and autoimmunity.
The innate immune system detects viruses through molecular sensors that trigger the production of type I interferons (IFN-I) and inflammatory cytokines. As viruses vary tremendously in size, structure, genomic composition, and tissue tropism, multiple sensors are required to detect their presence in various cell types and tissues. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of the diversity, specificity, and signaling pathways downstream of viral sensors and ask whether two distinct sensors that recognize the same viral component are complementary, compensatory, or simply redundant. We also discuss why viral sensors are differentially distributed in distinct cell types and whether a particular cell type dominates the IFN-I response during viral infection. Finally, we review evidence suggesting that inappropriate signaling through viral sensors may induce autoimmunity. The picture emerging from these studies is that disparate viral sensors in different cell types form a dynamic and integrated molecular network that can be exploited for improving vaccination and therapeutic strategies for infectious and autoimmune diseases.


Abscission of citrus leaf explants: no correlation with naphthaleneacetic Acid conjugation in the abscission zone.
The role of alpha-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) in the control of abscission in Citrus (Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck) leaf explants and its conjugation were studied in non-aged and 24-hour-aged explants. Dipping non-aged explants in 1.5 micromolar NAA for 15 minutes immediately after excision did not delay abscission whereas 150 micromolar NAA effectively delayed it. As incubation time was prolonged up to 24 hours after excision, the delaying effect of both concentrations gradually increased. In general, both concentrations did not delay abscission when applied to 24-hour-aged explants held for an additional period of up to 24 hours. The uptake and conjugation of (14)C-NAA to glucose and aspartic acid were similar in petiole, abscission zone, and leaf blade of non-aged and aged tissues, for all NAA concentrations. No correlation was established between the kinetics of abscission and the rate of conjugation in the abscission zone.


Cloning and expression of kinesins from the thermophilic fungus Thermomyces lanuginosus.
The motor domain regions of three novel members of the kinesin superfamily TLKIF1, TLKIFC, and TLBIMC were identified in a thermophilic fungus Thermomyces lanuginosus. Based on sequence similarity, they were classified as members of the known kinesin families Unc104/KIF1, KAR3, and BIMC. TLKIF1 was subsequently expressed in Escherichia coli. The expression level was high, and the protein was mostly soluble, easy to purify, and enzymatically active. TLKIF1 is a monomeric kinesin motor, which in a gliding motility assay displays a robust plus-directed microtubule movement up to 2 microm/s. The discovery of TLKIF1 also demonstrates that a family of kinesin motors not previously found in fungi may in fact be used in this group of organisms.


Two-photon excitable membrane targeting polyphenolic carbon dots for long-term imaging and pH-responsive chemotherapeutic drug delivery for synergistic tumor therapy.
Long-term dynamic tracking of cells with theranostic properties remains challenging due to the difficulty in preparing and delivering drugs by probes. Herein, we developed highly fluorescent one- and two-photon (OP and TP) excitable polyphenolic carbon quantum dots (CQDs) for excellent membrane-targeting and drug delivery properties for synergistic tumor therapy. The green-emissive CQDs (g-CQDs) were synthesized from a three-fold symmetric polyphenolic molecule, phloroglucinol (C3h; symmetry elements: E, C3, C32, σh, S3, and S3-1), in a sulfuric acid medium. Doxorubicin (Dox) was loaded onto the g-CQDs via electrostatic interaction, resulting in a loading efficiency and content of 54.62% and 323.25 μg mL-1, respectively. The g-CQDs@Dox complex exhibited a higher rate of cell killing efficiency at both pH 5.0 and 6.5, with higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation due to the greater Dox accumulation in the tumor cells. In addition, TP cell imaging displayed excellent membrane-targeting properties with less photobleaching ability in tumor cells. The in vivo studies confirmed that the g-CQDs@Dox complex has higher affinity towards tumor cells, better inhibitory effects, and an absence of systemic toxicity. Therefore, our developed nanocarrier exhibited better cell imaging, drug delivery, and tumor-targeting properties, and could be used as a "smart" probe for synergistic tumor therapy.


Cerebral blood flow during treatment for pulmonary hypertension.
To determine if the haemodynamics of systemic and cerebral circulation are changed during treatment for persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). Fifteen term newborn piglets with hypoxia induced pulmonary hypertension were randomly assigned either tolazoline infusion (Tz), hyperventilation alkalosis(HAT), and inhaled nitric oxide (iNO). Mean pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), mean systemic arterial pressure (SAP), and cerebral blood flow volume (CBF) were measured. During hypoxic breathing, PAP increased significantly in all groups. After treatment PAP decreased significantly in all groups, but no significant difference was observed between groups. SAP decreased significantly only in the Tz group, and CBF reduced significantly only in the HAT group. On the other hand, iNO did not change SAP or CBF. Inhaled NO might be ideal for the resolution of pulmonary hypertension.


Prognostic factors of chronic graft-versus-host disease following allogeneic peripheral blood stem cell transplantation: the national institutes health scale plus the type of onset can predict survival rates and the duration of immunosuppressive therapy.
Several grading systems have been developed in the bone marrow transplantation setting in attempts to predict survival in patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD). In this study, we evaluated the prognostic value of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) scoring system and investigated for any additional prognostic factors in a series of 171 patients undergoing peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) from matched related donors. The cumulative incidence of cGVHD was 70%; cumulative incidences of mild, moderate, and severe cGVHD were 29%, 42% and 28%, respectively. Overall, 68% of patients were free from immunosuppression 5 years after transplantation. Absence of previous acute GVHD (aGVHD; hazard ratio [HR] = 2; P = .004) and mild cGVHD (HR = 4.2; P = .007) increased the probability of being off immunosuppressive treatment by the last follow-up. Overall survival (OS) at 5 years was 52%. Severe cGVHD, according to the NIH scoring system (HR = 13.27; P = .001) adversely influenced outcome, whereas de novo onset (HR = 0.094; P = .003) had a more favorable impact on survival. The combination of both variables allowed us to identify 4 different subgroups of patients with OS of 82%, 70%, 50%, and 25%. Our findings indicate that the NIH scoring system has some prognostic value in patients undergoing PBSCT and, together with the type of onset, must be considered to predict the possible outcome of patients who develop cGVHD.


Interpretation of enantioresolution in nordeoxycholic acid channels based on the four-location model.
Nordeoxycholic acid (NDCA) forms three kinds of host frameworks, M1, M2, and M3, with channels where aliphatic alcohols (1-7) are accommodated. (13)C-NMR studies clarified that racemic alcohols 1- or 2-6 are enclosed in the M1- or M2-type channel with lower than 15% enantiomeric excess, respectively, while 3-methyl-2-pentanol (7) is done in the M3-type with 47% ee. These inclusion phenomena can be explained due to the Difference Fourier maps of electron densities of their enantiomers in the channels. In addition, analysis of the manner of packing indicates that four locations in the channels should be fixed for the enantioresolution of the alcohols. These results support the four-location model, which has been proposed by Mesecar et al.(20) with respect to enantioresolution on protein surfaces.


[Experimental study on orthotopic liver transplantation using veno-venous bypass in the pig--the evaluation of hemodynamic alterations and the estimation of appropriate bypass flow during the period of the ahepatic state].
This is the study on the estimation of appropriate bypass flow during an hepatic phase and on hemodynamic changes in orthotopic liver transplantation. Sixty six pigs weighing 16 to 25 kg were used. Experiment I (the estimation of correct bypass flow); The relationship between bypass flow and hemodynamics was evaluated in six pigs. Bypass model without transplantation was made by following procedures. The pig liver was isolated from the blood circulation and the systemic and splanchnic venous flow was shunted to the external jugular vein via the centrifugal pump. Experiment II (the hemodynamic changes of orthotopic liver transplantation); Evaluation of hemodynamic alterations was carried out in thirty orthotopic liver transplantations. It was concluded as follows; 1. General hemodynamics such as mean arterial pressure, cardiac output, central venous pressure, pulmonary arterial pressure, etc. have not changed significantly under veno-venous bypass, however, portal and vena caval pressure elevated up to 142 and 122 percent respectively, even though the maximum bypass flow was gained. 2. Hemodynamic profile associated with the reduction of bypass flow was the same as that of acute hypovolemic shock. Immediately after the bypass was closed, mean arterial pressure and cardiac output fell down to 42 and 30% of prebypass level respectively. 3. The statistical correlationship was found between bypass flow and cardiac output (r = 0.8565). The expressions; R = (2.454 x X + 0.034)/(4.829 x X + 1.823), was induced through the correlationship between bypass flow (BF, 1/min), the maximum bypass flow (BFmax, 1/min), and cardiac output(CO, 1/min),(e.g. R = BF/CO, X = BF/BFmax). 4. Orthotopic liver transplantation was succeeded in 80% of 25 cases with stable hemodynamics. In conclusion, cardiac output . bypass flow ratio(R) was proved to be useful in orthotopic liver transplantation. A appropriate bypass flow was able to be estimated systematically using this expression.


Computer-generated three-dimensional image holograms.
A synthetic generation of three-dimensional image holograms is suggested. The complex amplitude in the hologram is calculated by using the spectrum of plane waves. Specifically, three-dimensional images are composed of planar and inclined two-dimensional distributions. In display applications, large hologram apertures can be achieved by introducing a remote exit pupil. A synthetic three-dimensional image is optically reconstructed.


Enhanced effects of monoclonal antibody carboplatin immunoconjugates uptake and anti-tumor effects with angiotensin II and tumor necrosis factor.
The most important factor influencing the use of monoclonal antibody immunoconjugates for cancer treatment is effectiveness of enhancement for tumor targeting. We call attention to the vasoactive agents angiotensin II (ATII) for selective increase in tumor blood flow and cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) to improve the vascular permeability of the tumor. Tumor localization and biodistribution were investigated by nude mice transplanted human colon adenocarcinoma (LS-180) with radiolabeled carboplatin immunoconjugates. Tumor activity 48 h after administration of ATII and TNF was significantly higher than in the control group. However, nonspecific accumulation in normal organs was not observed. In vivo anti-tumor effects in animals with ATII and TNF was significantly stronger than in those given the same dose drug alone or immunoconjugates alone. These results indicate that ATII and TNF could be useful tools for induction of stronger inhibition of tumor growth without systemic toxicity.


Establishment and application of an indirect ELISA for porcine circovirus 3.
Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) was initially reported in 2016 in the United States of America. Since then, the virus has been detected on swine farms in Poland, South Korea, and China using PCR. However, a serological survey of PCV3 in pig populations has never been conducted. In this study, for the first time, we established an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assay and performed a national retrospective serological survey for PCV3. Our results showed that the PCV3-postive rate increased from 22.35% to 51.88% between 2015 and 2017. The above results suggest PCV3 has spread widely in China with increased positive rates since 2015.


Ovarian HBV replication following ovulation induction in female hepatitis B carriers undergoing IVF treatment: A prospective observational study.
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) can be found in ovarian tissues. This study compared HBV DNA levels in follicular fluid collected during oocyte retrieval with paired serum samples in HBV carriers after ovarian stimulation during IVF treatment for infertility. Sixty-four HBV carrier women referred to the Assisted Reproductive Units of two Hong Kong hospitals were recruited. At oocyte retrieval, the follicular fluid aspirated from the first follicle was collected for study. In 22 women, the first follicular fluid sample from both ovaries was similarly collected and studied. These women were also tested for liver function test and HBeAg. In 28 (43.8%) women, HBV DNA was detected in follicular fluid and the level correlated with serum levels (Spearman's correlation P < .001). There was concordant detection of HBV DNA in both ovaries, and the levels were significantly correlated (Spearman's correlation P = .029). In 40% of women with FF HBV DNA, the follicular fluid:serum ratio was >1.0, suggesting stimulation of HBV replication. These women also had significantly different liver function test results. Increased HBV replication exists in 40% of women with HBV DNA detected in follicular undergoing ovarian stimulation during IVF treatment.


Transcrystallization of Isotactic Polypropylene/Bacterial Cellulose Hamburger Composite.
Isotactic polypropylene (iPP) is a commonly used thermoplastic polymer with many excellent properties. But high brittleness, especially at low temperatures, limits the use of iPP. The presence of transcrystallization of iPP makes it possible for fiber-reinforced iPP composites with higher strength. Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a kind of cellulose with great potential to be used as a new filler to reinforce iPP due to its high crystallinity, biodegradability and efficient mechanical properties. In this study, the iPP/BC hamburger composite was prepared by a simple hot press and maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was used to improve the interface compatibility of iPP and BC. The polarizing microscope (POM) photograph shows that BC successfully induces the transcrystallization of iPP. The differential Scanning Calorimeter (DSC) date proves that the addition of BC could improve the thermal properties and crystallization rate of the composite. Especially, this change is more obvious of the iPP/MAPP/BC. The mechanical properties of the iPP/BC composites were greatly increased. This DSC date is higher than BC; we used BC particles to enhance the iPP in our previous research. The scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis intuitively shows that the interface of the iPP/MAPP/BC is more smooth and flat than the iPP/BC. The fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis of the iPP/BC hamburger composites was shown that a new C=O group vibration appeared at 1743 cm-1, which indicated that the hydrogen bond structure of BC molecules was weakened and some hydroxyl groups were substituted after modification which can increase the lipophilicity of BC. These results indicated that the BC fiber can easily induce the transcrystallization of iPP, which has excellent mechanical properties. Moreover, the addition of MAPP contributes greatly to the interface compatibility of iPP and BC.