Inhibition of Streptococcus mutans polysaccharide synthesis by molecules targeting glycosyltransferase activity.
Glycosyltransferase (Gtf) is one of the crucial virulence factors of Streptococcus mutans, a major etiological pathogen of dental caries. All the available evidence indicates that extracellular polysaccharide, particularly glucans produced by S. mutans Gtfs, contribute to the cariogenicity of dental biofilms. Therefore, inhibition of Gtf activity and the consequential polysaccharide synthesis may impair the virulence of cariogenic biofilms, which could be an alternative strategy to prevent the biofilm-related disease. Up to now, many Gtf inhibitors have been recognized in natural products, which remain the major and largely unexplored source of Gtf inhibitors. These include catechin-based polyphenols, flavonoids, proanthocyanidin oligomers, polymeric polyphenols, and some other plant-derived compounds. Metal ions, oxidizing agents, and some other synthetic compounds represent another source of Gtf inhibitors, with some novel molecules either discovered by structure-based virtual screening or synthesized based on key structures of known inhibitors as templates. Antibodies that inhibit one or more Gtfs have also been developed as topical agents. Although many agents have been shown to possess potent inhibitory activity against glucan synthesis by Gtfs, bacterial cell adherence, and caries development in animal models, much research remains to be performed to find out their mechanism of action, biological safety, cariostatic efficacies, and overall influence on the entire oral community. As a strategy to inhibit the virulence of cariogenic microbes rather than eradicate them from the microbial community, Gtf inhibition represents an approach of great potential to prevent dental caries.


FGF-2b and h-PL Transform Duct and Non-Endocrine Human Pancreatic Cells into Endocrine Insulin Secreting Cells by Modulating Differentiating Genes.
Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a multifactorial disease orphan of a cure. Regenerative medicine has been proposed as novel strategy for DM therapy. Human fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-2b controls β-cell clusters via autocrine action, and human placental lactogen (hPL)-A increases functional β-cells. We hypothesized whether FGF-2b/hPL-A treatment induces β-cell differentiation from ductal/non-endocrine precursor(s) by modulating specific genes expression. Methods: Human pancreatic ductal-cells (PANC-1) and non-endocrine pancreatic cells were treated with FGF-2b plus hPL-A at 500 ng/mL. Cytofluorimetry and Immunofluorescence have been performed to detect expression of endocrine, ductal and acinar markers. Bromodeoxyuridine incorporation and annexin-V quantified cells proliferation and apoptosis. Insulin secretion was assessed by RIA kit, and electron microscopy analyzed islet-like clusters. Results: Increase in PANC-1 duct cells de-differentiation into islet-like aggregates was observed after FGF-2b/hPL-A treatment showing ultrastructure typical of islets-aggregates. These clusters, after stimulation with FGF-2b/hPL-A, had significant (p < 0.05) increase in insulin, C-peptide, pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX-1), Nkx2.2, Nkx6.1, somatostatin, glucagon, and glucose transporter 2 (Glut-2), compared with control cells. Markers of PANC-1 (Cytokeratin-19, MUC-1, CA19-9) were decreased (p < 0.05). These aggregates after treatment with FGF-2b/hPL-A significantly reduced levels of apoptosis. Conclusions: FGF-2b and hPL-A are promising candidates for regenerative therapy in DM by inducing de-differentiation of stem cells modulating pivotal endocrine genes.


Exercise attenuates diabetes-induced ultrastructural changes in rat cardiac tissue.
Exercise is an effective nonpharmacological treatment in the prevention of mortality and morbidity due to cardiovascular disease in Type I diabetes. This study sought to explore the effects of endurance exercise on the ultrastructural changes seen in diabetic cardiomyopathy. Seven-week-old rats were divided into three groups consisting of sedentary nondiabetic control, sedentary diabetic, and exercised diabetic animals. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin injection, and the exercised animals were run daily on a treadmill for 9 wk. Changes in heart ultrastructure were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy. Ultrastructural changes in the left ventricle produced by diabetes included changes in myofibrillar arrangements, disrupted mitochondria, and increased cytoplasmic area with an increase in lipid amounts and an increase in individual collagen fiber cross-sectional surface area. Also, an increase in heterochromatin lining the nuclear envelope and an increase in invaginations of the nuclear membrane were observed in cardiomyocytes from diabetic rats when compared with the nuclei from nondiabetic cells. Exercise was found to significantly attenuate the diabetes-induced changes in collagen fibrils, cytoplasmic area, and level of mitochondrial disruption. In contrast, exercise did not appear to significantly influence myofibril volume density, lipid accumulation, or nuclear deformities. These findings indicate that exercise restores specific ultrastructural characteristics of diabetic cardiomyopathy returning them toward nondiabetic phenotypes, particularly in the mitochondria and extracellular matrix proteins.


Supporting adherence to oral anticancer agents: clinical practice and clues to improve care provided by physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and pharmacists.
Healthcare provider (HCP) activities and attitudes towards patients strongly influence medication adherence. The aim of this study was to assess current clinical practices to support patients in adhering to treatment with oral anticancer agents (OACA) and to explore clues to improve the management of medication adherence. A cross-sectional, observational study among HCPs in (haemato-)oncology settings in Belgium and the Netherlands was conducted in 2014 using a composite questionnaire. A total of 47 care activities were listed and categorised into eight domains. HCPs were also asked about their perceptions of adherence management on the items: insight into adherence, patients' communication, capability to influence, knowledge of consequences and insight into causes. Validated questionnaires were used to assess beliefs about medication (BMQ) and shared decision making (SDM-Q-doc). In total, 208 HCPs (29% male) participated; 107 from 51 Dutch and 101 from 26 Belgian hospitals. Though a wide range of activities were reported, certain domains concerning medication adherence management received less attention. Activities related to patient knowledge and adverse event management were reported most frequently, whereas activities aimed at patient's self-efficacy and medication adherence during ongoing use were frequently missed. The care provided differed between professions and by country. Belgian physicians reported more activities than Dutch physicians, whereas Dutch nurses and pharmacists reported more activities than Belgian colleagues. The perceptions of medication adherence management were related to the level of care provided by HCPs. SDM and BMQ outcomes were not related to the care provided. Enhancing the awareness and perceptions of medication adherence management of HCPs is likely to have a positive effect on care quality. Care can be improved by addressing medication adherence more directly e.g., by questioning patients about (expected) barriers and discussing strategies to overcome them, by asking for missed doses and offering (electronic) reminders to support long-term medication adherence. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended in which the role of the pharmacist could be expanded.


Genetic diversity of rotavirus strains circulating in Norway before and after the introduction of rotavirus vaccination in children.
Globally, rotavirus (RV) is the leading cause of acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in young children under 5 years of age. Implementation of RV vaccination is expected to result in fewer cases of RV in the target population, but it is unknown if this also results in vaccine-induced virus strain replacement. Rotarix, a monovalent vaccine based on G1P[8] RV, was introduced in Norway in the children's immunization program in September 2014. The main aim of this study was to describe the diversity of RV circulating pre and post introduction of the RV vaccine in Norway and investigate changes in genotype distribution during the first 4 years after implementation. A total of 1108 samples were collected from children under 5 years enrolled with AGE from five large hospitals in Norway and were analyzed for RV by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). All positive results were genotyped by multiplex semi-nested reverse transcription PCR for identification of G and P types. In total, 487 of the 1108 (44%) samples, collected from the enrolled children, were positive for RV by EIA method which were further genotyped. G1P[8] was found to be the most common type of RV pre and post RV vaccine implementation followed by G9P[8]. There were neither geographical nor temporal differences in genotype dominance. Also, no apparent changes were shown in the genotype distribution in the postvaccine era for years from 2015 to 2018. In 21.4% of the cases, vaccine strains were detected. Continuous RV genotype surveillance is vital for assessing the effectiveness of a vaccine program and monitoring for any emergence of vaccine-escape strains. Genotyping is also necessary to detect vaccine strains to avoid reporting false-positive cases of active RV infection in newly vaccinated cases.


AtTCTP2, an Arabidopsis thaliana homolog of Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein, enhances in vitro plant regeneration.
The Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) is a central regulator of cell proliferation and differentiation in animals, and probably also in plants. Arabidopsis harbors two TCTP genes, AtTCTP1 (At3g16640), which is an important mitotic regulator, and AtTCTP2 (At3g05540), which is considered a pseudogene. Nevertheless, we have obtained evidence suggesting that this gene is functional. Indeed, a T-DNA insertion mutant, SALK_045146, displays a lethal phenotype during early rosette stage. Also, both the AtTCTP2 promoter and structural gene are functional, and heterozygous plants show delayed development. AtTCTP1 cannot compensate for the loss of AtTCTP2, since the accumulation levels of the AtTCTP1 transcript are even higher in heterozygous plants than in wild-type plants. Leaf explants transformed with Agrobacterium rhizogenes harboring AtTCTP2, but not AtTCTP1, led to whole plant regeneration with a high frequency. Insertion of a sequence present in AtTCTP1 but absent in AtTCTP2 demonstrates that it suppresses the capacity for plant regeneration; also, this phenomenon is enhanced by the presence of TCTP (AtTCTP1 or 2) in the nuclei of root cells. This confirms that AtTCTP2 is not a pseudogene and suggests the involvement of certain TCTP isoforms in vegetative reproduction in some plant species.


The bone detectives.
With an ageing population, the number of people with osteoporosis is set to increase. Nurses are identifying the condition and those at risk of it.


Dyeing Property and Adsorption Kinetics of Reactive Dyes for Cotton Textiles in Salt-Free Non-Aqueous Dyeing Systems.
In recent years, new concepts in textile dyeing technology have been investigated which aim to decrease the use of chemicals and the emission of water. In this work, dyeing of cotton textiles with reactive dyes has been investigated in a silicone non-aqueous dyeing system. Compared with conventional aqueous dyeing, almost 100% of reactive dyes can be adsorbed on cotton textiles without using any salts in non-aqueous dyeing systems, and the fixation of dye is also higher (80%~90% for non-aqueous dyeing vs. 40%~50% for traditional dyeing). The pseudo-second-order kinetic model can best describe the adsorption and equilibrium of reactive dyes in the non-aqueous dyeing systems as well as in the traditional water dyeing system. In the non-aqueous dyeing systems, the adsorption equilibrium of reactive dyes can be reached quickly. Particularly in the siloxane non-aqueous dyeing system, the adsorption equilibrium time of reactive dye is only 5⁻10 min at 25 °C, whereas more time is needed at 60 °C in the water dyeing system. The surface tension of non-aqueous media influences the adsorption rate of dye. The lower the surface tension, the faster the adsorption rate of reactive dye, and the higher the final uptake of dye. As a result, non-aqueous dyeing technology provides an innovative approach to increase dye uptake under a low dyeing temperature, in addition to making large water savings.


Production and characterization of a recombinant chimeric antigen consisting botulinum neurotoxin serotypes A, B and E binding subdomains.
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are potent toxicant proteins composed of a heavy chain (100 kDa) and a light chain (50 kDa) of seven (A-G) serotypes that is responsible for botulism syndrome. In this study, polypeptides from C-terminal heavy chain of BoNTs serotypes A, B and E to the length of 54, 45 and 48 amino acid respectively were selected, linked together using a hydrophobic linker and expressed in E. coli. The expression efficiency of the chimeric protein was found to be 51%. The chimeric protein was produced in the form of inclusion body (IB) both at two studied temperatures, 30 degrees C and 37 degrees C. This IB was extracted by ultracentrifugation and followed for chimeric protein solubilization and purification using of ultrafiltration and preparative electrophoresis. The purified chimeric protein was characterized using blotting and ELISA. To evaluate the protection ability of this chimeric antigen against their active toxins, it was injected to mice and the antibody titer as well as the extent of protectivity were determined. Mice given three injections (10 microg/mice) of the antigen were protected against an intra-peritoneal administration of 10 LD(50 )of serotypes A and E, but 100 LD(50) of serotype B. We conclude that a significant correlation exists between the antigenic characteristics and protection capability of the chimeric protein prepared in this study.


Diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of primary CNS lymphoma-a single-center experience.
Primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL) is a highly aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that occurs in the CNS (e.g. brain, meninges, spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid, or intraocular involvement) in the absence of systemic NHL. Tumor resection does not improve survival, and neurosurgical intervention is generally limited to stereotactic biopsy to provide a histopathological diagnosis. The objective of this single-center study was to evaluate the management and outcome of PCNSL patients diagnosed by biopsy, using overall survival and progression-free survival as endpoints. At our department of neurosurgery, 140 patients were diagnosed with PCNSL by biopsy between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2018. Of these, 37 patients were included in the study and were divided into three groups according to their postoperative therapy. Median OS was 35.7 months for the intensive treatment group, 29.5 months for the moderate treatment group, and 8.6 months for the palliative treatment group. The intensive and moderate treatment groups had similar progression-free survival, while the palliative treatment group had poor overall and progression-free survival. Six patients were long-term survivors (> 80 months). Age under 65 years was the main significant parameter affecting overall survival. In this cohort, patients with PCNSL had an overall fair prognosis if they (1) were under 65 years old, (2) had a performance score < 2 at the time of diagnosis, and (3) received either intensive or moderate chemotherapeutic treatment. Biopsy is still the primary diagnostic tool; other methods have been investigated but are not yet recommended.


Patterns of cytokine production and proliferation by T lymphocytes differ in mice vaccinated or infected with Schistosoma mansoni.
C57BL/6 mice vaccinated with irradiated cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni are highly resistant to challenge infection. To examine the role of T-helper (Th) activity in these vaccinated (V20) mice, cells from skin- and lung-draining lymph nodes (LN) and the spleen were cultured in vitro with soluble schistosomular antigen. Peak proliferation and release of T-cell growth factor (TCGF) by axillary LN cells on Day 5, and by mediastinal LN cells on Day 18, reflected the kinetics of parasite migration. High levels of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) were detected and production was prolonged, particularly in the mediastinal LN. The majority of the above activity was ablated with anti-CD4 antibody. IFN-gamma production by spleen cells increased, whilst proliferation and TCGF release remained low. Although levels of proliferation were similar, more IFN-gamma was released by LN cells from V20 mice than by those from mice infected with normal parasites (NI). This difference in IFN-gamma production was magnified by the greater number of cells in LN of V20 than NI mice. On Day 22 post-exposure, 24-fold more IFN-gamma was produced per pair of axillary LN in the former group. LN cells from V20 mice produced interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-4, whereas those from NI mice released IL-2 but negligible IL-4. Greater quantities of IL-3 were secreted by cells from V20 than from NI mice. These results support the conclusion that IFN-gamma-producing memory Th cells, generated in the LN of V20 mice, play an important role in protective immunity against S. mansoni.


Clothing identification via deep learning: forensic applications.
Attribute-based identification systems are essential for forensic investigations because they help in identifying individuals. An item such as clothing is a visual attribute because it can usually be used to describe people. The method proposed in this article aims to identify people based on the visual information derived from their attire. Deep learning is used to train the computer to classify images based on clothing content. We first demonstrate clothing classification using a large scale dataset, where the proposed model performs relatively poorly. Then, we use clothing classification on a dataset containing popular logos and famous brand images. The results show that the model correctly classifies most of the test images with a success rate that is higher than 70%. Finally, we evaluate clothing classification using footage from surveillance cameras. The system performs well on this dataset, labelling 70% of the test images correctly.


Identity formation and evaluation in adolescence and emerging adulthood: How is it associated with depressive symptoms and loneliness?
Developing a personal identity is a challenging task throughout adolescence and emerging adulthood. In 2006, Luyckx and colleagues developed an identity model differentiating identity formation into exploration and commitment dimensions. Previous studies have documented associations between the identity dimensions and different aspects of mental health. Based on Luyckx and colleagues five-dimensional identity model, the present study investigated associations between identity dimensions and intra- and interpersonal aspects of mental health. In total, 524 high school students (65 % female; mean age = 18.27; SD = 1.15) participated in a cross-sectional study measuring five identity dimensions and intra- and interpersonal aspects of mental health (depressive symptoms and loneliness). Correlation coefficients were calculated and hierarchical regression analyses were performed. Only two of the five identity dimensions: Identification with Commitment and Ruminative Exploration, were significantly associated with depression. None of the five identity dimensions were associated with loneliness. The findings suggest that the identity dimensions are not specifically associated with feelings of loneliness but that Identification with Commitment and Ruminative Exploration may be key components in the development of depressive symptoms. Future studies exploring the associations of identity dimensions and multiple intra- and interpersonal aspects of mental health are recommended.


Lack of CD44 and Sox-2 Overexpression as Two Independent Favourable Prognostic Factors in HPV Positive Patients with Oropharyngeal Cancers.
In our earlier publications, in the group of 63 patients with oropharyngeal cancer, we have found HPV16 infection (assessed by qPCR) in 25 tumours (39.7%), immunohistochemical overexpression of CD44, CD98, ALDH1/2 and Nanog in, respectively: 43 (68.2%), 30 (47.6%), 33 (52.4%), and 53 (84.1%) cancers. Analysing CD44, CD98, ALDH1/2, we have also shown that lack of CD44 overexpression indicates excellent prognosis in patients with HPV16 positivity. The aim of the present study was to compare prognostic potential of Nanog, Oct3/4, Sox-2 expression in relation to CD44, CD98, ALDH1/2 immunoreactivity (assessed by us earlier) and clinicopathological features in the subgroups of patients: with HPV16 positivity and HPV16 negativity. Status of Oct3/4 and Sox-2 expression was assessed for 63 patients with oropharyngeal cancers based on immunohistochemistry. In survival analysis, two endpoints were applied: overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). Overexpression of Oct3/4 and Sox-2 was found in 0 (0.0%) and 27 (42.9%) of patients. In the subgroup with HPV16 positivity, the DFS for patients with lack of Sox-2 overexpression was significantly (p = 0.003) higher than for patients with Sox-2 overexpression. In the subgroup with HPV16 negativity, Nanog and Sox-2 immunoexpression did not significantly influence OS and DFS. In multivariate analysis performed for the subgroup with HPV16 positivity, lack of CD44 overexpression (p = 0.012) and lack of Sox-2 overexpression (p = 0.027) were positive independent prognostic factors. Based on CD44 and Sox-2 immunoreactivity, it is possible to differentiate the prognosis of HPV16-positive patients with oropharyngeal cancers.


Feasibility pilot of a brief mindfulness intervention for college students with posttraumatic stress symptoms and problem drinking.
A significant subset of college students experience PTSD symptoms, and many engage in problematic alcohol use. Some college students with PTSD symptoms may use alcohol and other substances to cope with their symptoms, and those with PTSD experience more negative alcohol and drug consequences than those without PTSD. Mindfulness-Based Interventions (MBIs) have been successfully utilized for individuals with PTSD or substance use disorders. However, to date, no studies have evaluated MBIs for college students with co-occurring PTSD symptoms and problem drinking. This study was a feasibility pilot of a 4-week group loving-kindness meditation (LKM) intervention, a practice of intentionally directing well wishes to oneself and others. LKM was compared to referral to treatment as usual (RTAU) for non-treatment seeking college students (N=75) with PTSD symptoms and problem drinking. Overall, the LKM group had low to moderate feasibility and acceptability among college students, as recruitment was lower than expected and attendance at LKM groups was modest. Participants' PTSD symptoms, drinking quantity, and negative drinking consequences decreased, and state mindfulness increased over the course of the study, but there were no significant differences between LKM and RTAU on these outcomes. Additionally, higher coping drinking motives predicted greater PTSD symptoms and more drinking consequences over the course of the study. Effective interventions for college students with PTSD symptoms and problematic alcohol use are needed, especially for individuals who drink to cope with their PTSD symptoms. Future research on LKM that addresses the limitations of the current study is warranted.


Does Preoperative Conservative Management Affect the Success of Arthroscopic Repair of Partial Rotator Cuff Tear?
The aim of this study is to examine the effect of preoperative conservative treatment on the success of high-grade bursal/articular-sided partial rotator cuff repair. Patients who had undergone shoulder arthroscopy in institution for Ellman Stage 3 bursal-side or articular-side partial tears between January 2008 and April 2018 were investigated retrospectively. This study assessed 201 patients diagnosed with isolated partial rotator cuff tears with a history of failed conservative management and persistent shoulder pain who underwent arthroscopic surgery. The demographic data of patients and pre- and postoperative The American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons Shoulder Scores (ASES) that were recorded in the archive were evaluated. While 55 of the patients with Ellman grade 3 bursal-sided partial tears received preoperative conservative management for at least 6 months (Group 1), 62 of them could not tolerate conservative management and early arthroscopic repair was performed (Group 2). On the other hand, 42 of the patients with Ellman grade 3 articular-sided tears received preoperative conservative management (Group 3), 42 of them could not tolerate preoperative conservative management (Group 4). The mean ASES score improvement was 52.33 ± 8.55 for Group 1, 54.68 ± 11.29 for Group 2, 48.4 ± 7.77 for Group 3 and 49.33 ± 10.05 for Group 4. A statistically significant difference was found between the groups with one-way ANOVA test (p = 0.05). With the Tukey test, this difference was seen to be caused by Group 2. Although there are many factors affecting its success, conservative management should be the first option in the treatment of partial rotator cuff tears. However, we think that it should not be insisted especially in patients with bursal-sided tears (> 50% of the tendon thickness) that cannot tolerate conservative management due to severe pain since the results of early arthroscopic repair of bursal-sided tears were found to be better. Retrospective comparative study, Level III.


Influence Analysis of Sustainability Perceptions on Sense of Community and Support for Sustainable Community Development in Relocated Communities.
This study aims to examine a theoretical model using sustainability perceptions, including environmental; sociocultural; economic; and life satisfaction, sense of community, and support for sustainable community development among the indigenous people of two relocated communities in Taiwan. A total of 747 usable questionnaires were collected and analyzed using structural equation modeling. The analytical results indicated that sense of community is an antecedent of support for sustainable community development in both relocated communities. Life satisfaction perceptions can influence the sense of community in Rinari. Additionally, environmental and economic perceptions are antecedents of the sense of community in New Laiyi. Finally, this study provides theoretical implications to fill the gaps in previous research, and offers valuable insights for promoting residents' support for sustainable community development in aboriginal communities; thus, this study has significant contributions, theoretically and practically.


Return to work after acquired brain injury: facilitators and hindrances observed in a sub-acute rehabilitation setting.
There is great variability in the rate of return to work for persons who have suffered from brain injury. The aims of this study was: 1) to describe employment status of persons with stroke or traumatic brain injury, one year after the incident and 2) to investigate the impact of injury/stroke severity, length of stay, the ability to perform activities of daily living and cognitive function on return to work. Information was collected from 72 persons; 48 with a diagnosis of stroke and 24 with a traumatic brain injury. All patients had attended to a Rehabilitation Centre with inpatient and outpatient facilities. Data of the above mentioned variables was gathered retrospectively and information about employment status was retrieved from the medical records. After one year, 13 persons (approximately 18%), 5 with a stroke and 8 with a traumatic brain injury (one with mild brain injury, 9 with moderate and 3 persons with severe injuries) had returned to work. They had significantly shorter length of stay at the rehabilitation hospital and were younger than those that did not return to work. Somewhat better results at the neuropsychological screening were seen among those that returned to work, although with a significant difference only in the subscale assessing affect. Some persons with severe injury returned to work, while a majority of those with mild brain injury did not. Traumatic brain injury, younger age and less need of rehabilitation were associated with a higher rate of returning to work. Patients with stroke were older and seem to need more support in order to be successful in work return. It is of importance to reach primary rehabilitation goals, such as being ADL independent, as this was also favourable for work return. The impact of injury severity seemed complex and should to be further explored. Persons with mild brain injury should be followed-up with respect to work return. An important cognitive factor was ability to perceive and express affective responses, reflecting the need of social skills in today's work-life.


Cyanidiophyceae (Rhodophyta) Tolerance to Precious Metals: Metabolic Response to Palladium and Gold.
Polyextremophilic red algae, which belong to the class Cyanidiophyceae, are adapted to live in geothermal and volcanic sites. These sites often have very high concentrations of heavy and precious metals. In this study, we assessed the capacity of three strains of Galdieria (G. maxima, G. sulphuraria, and G. phlegrea) and one strain of Cyanidiumcaldarium to tolerate different concentrations of precious metals, such as palladium (Cl4K2Pd) and gold (AuCl4K) by monitoring algal growths in cultures exposed to metals, and we investigated the algae potential oxidative stress induced by the metals. This work provides further understanding of metals responses in the Cyanidiophyceae, as this taxonomic class is developed as a biological refinement tool.


Regulation of (p)ppGpp and Its Homologs on Environmental Adaptation, Survival, and Pathogenicity of Streptococci.
Most streptococci are commensals, pathogens, or opportunistic pathogens for humans and animals. Therefore, it is important for streptococci to adapt to the various challenging environments of the host during the processes of infection or colonization, as well as to in vitro conditions for transmission. Stringent response (SR) is a special class of adaptive response induced by the signal molecules (p)ppGpp, which regulate several physiological aspects, such as long-term persistence, virulence, biofilm formation, and quorum sensing in bacteria. To understand the roles of SR in streptococci, the current mini-review gives a general overview on: (1) (p)ppGpp synthetases in the genus of Streptococcus, (2) the effects of (p)ppGpp on the physiological phenotypes, persistence, and pathogenicity of streptococci, (3) the transcriptional regulation induced by (p)ppGpp in streptococci, and (4) the link between (p)ppGpp and another nutrient regulatory protein CodY in streptococci.


Short-term effects of glucocorticoids in the human fetal-placental circulation in vitro.
A number of studies demonstrate that both long-term and short-term exposure to glucocorticoids alters vascular function. We have examined whether the short-term administration of glucocorticoids into the human fetal-placental circulation affects placental arterial pressure and alters vascular responses to vasoconstrictive and vasodilator agents. Single lobules of term human placentae were bilaterally perfused in vitro with Krebs' solution (maternal and fetal, 5 ml/min Krebs, 95% O2, 5% CO2, 37 C, pH 7.3), and changes in fetal-placental arterial perfusion pressure were measured. Dexamethasone (100 nM) infusion for 1 h into the fetal-placental circulation caused a significant decrease in basal arterial pressure (n = 19, t test, P < 0.05). Continuous dexamethasone infusion (100 nM) did not alter vasoconstrictive responses to PGF(2alpha) (0.5-120 pM, n = 12, ANOVA, P > 0.05) or potassium chloride (5-600 mM, n = 12, ANOVA, P > 0.05) or vasodilator responses to CRH (53-7400 pM, n = 13, ANOVA, P > 0.05). However when fetal-placental vessels were submaximally preconstricted and then infused with dexamethasone alone (40 nM-10 microM), there was a dose-dependent decrease in arterial pressure (n = 8). Dexamethasone-induced dilation was not inhibited by blocking nitric oxide synthase or cyclo-oxygenase activity. These data suggest that dexamethasone can cause dilation in the fetal-placental circulation, possibly via an endothelium-independent pathway.


Mutagenesis, Hydrogen-Deuterium Exchange, and Molecular Docking Investigations Establish the Dimeric Interface of Human Platelet-Type 12-Lipoxygenase.
It was previously shown that human platelet 12S-lipoxygenase (h12-LOX) exists as a dimer; however, the specific structure is unknown. In this study, we create a model of the dimer through a combination of computational methods, experimental mutagenesis, and hydrogen-deuterium exchange (HDX) investigations. Initially, Leu183 and Leu187 were replaced by negatively charged glutamate residues and neighboring aromatic residues were replaced with alanine residues (F174A/W176A/L183E/L187E/Y191A). This quintuple mutant disrupted both the hydrophobic and π-π interactions, generating an h12-LOX monomer. To refine the determinants for dimer formation further, the L183E/L187E mutant was generated and the equilibrium shifted mostly toward the monomer. We then submitted the predicted monomeric structure to protein-protein docking to create a model of the dimeric complex. A total of nine of the top 10 most energetically favorable docking conformations predict a TOP-to-TOP dimeric arrangement of h12-LOX, with the α-helices containing a Leu-rich region (L172, L183, L187, and L194), corroborating our experimental results showing the importance of these hydrophobic interactions for dimerization. This model was supported by HDX investigations that demonstrated the stabilization of four, non-overlapping peptides within helix α2 of the TOP subdomain for wt-h12-LOX, consistent with the dimer interface. Most importantly, our data reveal that the dimer and monomer of h12-LOX have distinct biochemical properties, suggesting that the structural changes due to dimerization have allosteric effects on active site catalysis and inhibitor binding.


Examining bidirectional effects between the autism spectrum disorder (ASD) core symptom domains and anxiety in children with ASD.
Although a bidirectional relationship between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and anxiety symptoms is assumed, few studies have investigated this. Moreover, little is known about potential differential relationships of the two core symptom domains of ASD - social communication impairment and restricted, repetitive behavior - with anxiety over time. Participants were 130 children with an ASD (M age 6.7 years, 81.5% boys) of whom 79 participated in a follow-up assessment 2 years later. We used cross-lagged models to test whether social communication impairment and restricted, repetitive behavior at T0 predicted anxiety at T2 and vice versa. Crossed-lagged models showed that anxiety symptoms predicted social communication impairment over time (β = .22, p = .008), but not vice versa (β = -.07, p = .49). There were no significant paths from anxiety symptoms to later restricted, repetitive behavior (β = .11, p = .34) or vice versa (β = -.11, p = .27). Our results do not support a bidirectional relationship between the ASD core symptom domains and anxiety, but suggest that higher levels of anxiety symptoms increase the risk of more social communication impairment over time in children with ASD. This underlines the importance of treating anxiety symptoms to improve both social and emotional functioning.


Incidental radiologic finding of an anterior superior mediastinal mass masquerading as metastatic thyroid cancer in patients with treated thyroid cancer.
To demonstrate that an anterior superior mediastinal mass on radiologic imaging may represent an incidental finding and not metastases in patients with a history of treated well-differentiated thyroid cancer. We report the clinical presentation and outcomes of 4 patients with a history of thyroid cancer who were incidentally found to have anterior superior mediastinal masses on imaging. We also review the relevant literature. Four young adults with a history of stage I papillary thyroid cancer treated with total thyroidectomy and radioiodine were incidentally found to have thymic enlargement on imaging studies within a 3-year posttreatment window. In each case, this enlargement was believed to be secondary to thymic hyperplasia and not metastatic disease, and each patient has exhibited a benign clinical course. Review of the literature revealed few reports of an association between thymic hyperplasia and thyroid cancer. Thymic hyperplasia may be discovered on posttreatment imaging studies in patients with a history of well-differentiated thyroid cancer, particularly in young adults who have received radioiodine therapy. Recognition of the possible coexistence of this incidental finding in patients with thyroid cancer may help to avoid unnecessary invasive procedures and treatments.


An insulinoma causing hypoglycaemia and seizures in a dog: case report and literature review.
A nine-year-old mixed breed dog was presented with a history of mild generalized seizures, weakness, and muscle fasciculations, following periods of excitement and exercise. Investigative procedures included haematology, chemical pathology, faecal analysis, urinalysis, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, hormone assays, computerized axial tomography and scintigraphic imaging. Results of these investigations revealed hypoglycaemia (blood glucose 1.9 mmol l-1, hyperinsulinism (111 muu ml-1) and an amended insulin-glucose ratio of 2643. The glucagon tolerance test was typical for an insulin producing pancreatic islet cell tumour and pancreas scintigraphic imaging revealed focal lesions in the pancreas and liver. Seizures were initially controlled by dietary means and by limiting exercise. Eventual control was obtained by treatment with prednisolone (1 mg kg-1 on alternate days) and diazoxide (10 mg kg-1 in divided doses daily). Post mortem examination confirmed the presence of a pancreatic islet cell adenocarcinoma with hepatic metastasis.


Nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 inhibits human disc nucleus pulpous cells apoptosis induced by excessive hydrogen peroxide.
OBJECTIVE Nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2)/ antioxidant response element (ARE) is a novel defensive pathway involved in the oxidative and chemical stress of cells. The aim of the study was to explore the role of Nrf2 on the apoptosis of human disc nucleus pulpous cells induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). METHODS The degeneration model of human intervertebral disc nucleus pulpous cells was established. The expression of Nrf2 was interfered with using sulforaphane (SFN); for that end, three groups were established: a blank group (H2O2-/SFN-), control group (H2O2+/SFN-), and an experimental group (H2O2+/SFN+). CCK8, Hoechst 33258 living cell staining was used to detect reactive oxygen species (ROS) content. RESULTS The apoptotic rates of the three groups were [(0.40±0.46)%], [(25.98±11.28)%], and [(3.83±2.06)%, respectively. The difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). The relative content of ROS in the three groups was [(100±7)%], [(1538±91)%], and [(818±63)%]; the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). In Western blotting, Nrf2 content in the experimental group was higher than that in the control group. CONCLUSION Nrf2 exists in the nucleus pulpous cells of human intervertebral discs, which is related to the degeneration of the intervertebral disc. It has negative feedback regulation and can prevent the degeneration of the intervertebral disc by inhibiting the apoptosis of nucleus pulpous cells of human intervertebral discs caused by excessive ROS, which provides a new intervention strategy for the prevention and treatment of the degeneration of intervertebral discs.


The 5HT(1A) receptor ligand, S15535, antagonises G-protein activation: a [35S]GTPgammaS and [3H]S15535 autoradiography study.
4-(Benzodioxan-5-yl)1-(indan-2-yl)piperazine (S15535) is a highly selective ligand at 5-HT(1A) receptors. The present study compared its autoradiographic labelling of rat brain sections with its functional actions, visualised by guanylyl-5'-[gamma-thio]-triphosphate ([35S]GTPgammaS) autoradiography, which affords a measure of G-protein activation. [3H]S15535 binding was highest in hippocampus, frontal cortex, entorhinal cortex, lateral septum, interpeduncular nucleus and dorsal raphe, consistent with specific labelling of 5-HT(1A) receptors. In functional studies, S15535 (10 microM) did not markedly stimulate G-protein activation in any brain region, but abolished the activation induced by the selective 5-HT(1A) agonist, (+)-8-hydroxy-dipropyl-aminotetralin ((+)-8-OH-DPAT, 1 microM), in structures enriched in [3H]S15535 labelling. S15535 did not block 5-HT-stimulated activation in caudate nucleus or substantia nigra, regions where (+)-8-OH-DPAT was ineffective and [3H]S15535 binding was absent. Interestingly, S15535 attenuated (+)-8-OH-DPAT and 5-HT-stimulated G-protein activation in dorsal raphe, a region in which S15535 is known to exhibit agonist properties in vivo [Lejeune, F., Millan, M.J., 1998. Induction of burst firing in ventral tegmental area dopaminergic neurons by activation of serotonin (5-HT)(1A) receptors: WAY100,635-reversible actions of the highly selective ligands, flesinoxan and S15535. Synapse 30, 172-180.]. The present data show that (i) [3H]S15535 labels pre- and post-synaptic populations of 5-HT(1A) sites in rat brain sections, (ii) S15535 exhibits antagonist properties at post-synaptic 5-HT(1A) receptors in corticolimbic regions, and (iii) S15535 also attenuates agonist-stimulated G-protein activation at raphe-localised 5-HT(1A) receptors.


Basement membrane thickening in small intramyocardial vessels in eosinophilic myocarditis.
The case reported in this paper, besides illustrating several aspects of the eosinophilic myocarditis, documents a yet undescribed feature of the cardiac involvement in idiopathic hypereosinophilic syndrome characterized by marked basement membrane thickening of small intramyocardial vessels. We are unaware of previous reports showing the presence of an extensive thickening of the basement membrane of arteriolar and capillary intramyocardial vessels in eosinophilic myocarditis. Considering the findings in the present case, i.e., the focal nature of the lesions, the type of necrosis, and the diffuse microangiopathy, it can be hypothesized that the microvascular disease could play a role in the development of the myocardial changes.


The effect of nucleobase-specific fluorescence quenching on in situ hybridization with rRNA-targeted oligonucleotide probes.
Oligonucleotide probes labeled with fluorescent dyes are used in a variety of in situ applications to detect specific DNA or RNA molecules. It has been described that probe fluorescence might be quenched upon hybridization in a sequence specific way. Here, a set of 17 oligonuleotides labeled with 6-carboxyfluorescein was used to examine the relevance of nucleotide specific quenching for fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to whole fixed bacterial cells. Probes quenched upon hybridization to a guanine-rich region of purified RNA in solution were not quenched upon FISH. Among other factors the high protein concentration within cells may prevent quenching of probe fluorescence in situ.


Exaggerated behavioral phenotypes in Fmr1/Fxr2 double knockout mice reveal a functional genetic interaction between Fragile X-related proteins.
Individuals affected by Fragile X syndrome (FXS) experience cognitive impairment, hyperactivity, attention deficits, social anxiety and autistic-like behaviors. FXS results from the loss of expression of the Fragile X mental retardation (FMR1) gene, whose protein product FMRP is thought to play an important role in neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. Two paralogs of FMRP, FXR1P and FXR2P, have been identified, forming the Fragile X-related (FXR) family of proteins. Although the functions of FXR1P and FXR2P are not well understood, there are similarities among all three FXR proteins in gene structure, amino acid sequence, expression pattern and cellular functions. Mouse models have been described for loss of Fmrp, Fxr1p and Fxr2p, the mouse homologs of FMRP, FXR1P and FXR2P. In earlier studies, we found that Fmr1 knockout (KO) mice, which do not express Fmrp, and Fxr2 KO mice, which do not express Fxr2p, show similarities in some behavioral responses such as hyperactivity. To better understand the functional relationship between FMRP and FXR2P, we generated Fmr1 KO, Fxr2 KO, Fmr1/Fxr2 double KO and wild-type control mice as littermates on the same genetic background and examined them in several behavioral assays. Results show that Fmr1/Fxr2 double KO mice have exaggerated behavioral phenotypes in open-field activity, prepulse inhibition of acoustic startle response and contextual fear conditioning when compared with Fmr1 KO mice, Fxr2 KO mice or wild-type littermates. Our findings suggest that Fmr1 and Fxr2 genes contribute in a cooperative manner to pathways controlling locomotor activity, sensorimotor gating and cognitive processes.


Expression and clinical significance of lncRNA TCL6 in serum of patients with preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia is a common syndrome in pregnancy and a leading cause of mortality of pregnant females and their infants. To investigate the diagnostic and prognostic utility of lncRNA T-cell leukemia/lymphoma 6 (TCL6) in patients with preeclampsia, 120 singleton pregnant females with preeclampsia and another 100 healthy pregnant control subjects were analyzed in the present study. The expression of lncRNA TCL6 in the serum of the included patients was detected. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was applied to evaluate the efficiency of lncRNA TCL6 in terms of preeclampsia diagnosis and grading. Kaplan-Meier analysis was adopted to assess the effect of lncRNA TCL6 expression on the rate of adverse pregnancy. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine high-risk factors of adverse pregnancy. The results indicated that lncRNA TCL6 was significantly increased in the serum of patients with preeclampsia. Furthermore, TCL6 was elevated in subgroups of patients with early-onset or severe preeclampsia and with Haemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelet count syndrome in comparison with other patients with preeclampsia. High expression of TCL6 in pregnant females corresponded to a higher rate of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Severe preeclampsia, early-onset preeclampsia and high TCL6 expression were identified as independent risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes. For each unit increase in TCL6 expression, a 9.5-fold increase of the risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes was determined. Collectively, high expression of lncRNA TCL6 may assist the diagnosis and grading of preeclampsia and may be adopted as an independent risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes.


Proprioceptive Training with Visual Feedback Improves Upper Limb Function in Stroke Patients: A Pilot Study.
Proprioceptive deficit is one of the common sensory impairments following stroke and has a negative impact on motor performance. However, evidence-based training procedures and cost-efficient training setups for patients with poststroke are still limited. We compared the effects of proprioceptive training versus nonspecific sensory stimulation on upper limb proprioception and motor function rehabilitation. In this multicenter, single-blind, randomized controlled trial, 40 participants with poststroke hemiparesis were enrolled from 3 hospitals in China. Participants were assigned randomly to receive proprioceptive training involving passive and active movements with visual feedback (proprioceptive training group [PG]; n = 20) or nonspecific sensory stimulation (control group [CG]; n = 20) 20 times in four weeks. Each session lasted 30 minutes. A clinical assessor blinded to group assignment evaluated patients before and after the intervention. The primary outcome was the change in the motor subscale of the Fugl-Meyer assessment for upper extremity (FMA-UE-M). Secondary outcomes were changes in box and block test (BBT), thumb localization test (TLT), the sensory subscale of the Fugl-Meyer assessment for upper extremity (FMA-UE-S), and Barthel Index (BI). The results showed that the mean change scores of FMA-UE were significantly greater in the PG than in the CG (p = 0.010 for FMA-UE-M, p = 0.033 for FMA-UE-S). The PG group was improved significantly in TLT (p = 0.010) and BBT (p = 0.027), while there was no significant improvement in TLT (p = 0.083) and BBT (p = 0.107) for the CG group. The results showed that proprioceptive training was effective in improving proprioception and motor function of the upper extremity in patients with poststroke. This trial is registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2000037808).


Developments of DNA-dependent Protein Kinase Inhibitors as Anticancer Agents.
Repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) is critical for the maintenance of genome integrity, cell survival, and prevention tumorigenesis. Three pathways are responsible for the repair of DNA DSBs: homologous recombination (HR), single strand annealing (SSA) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ). DNA-dependent Protein Kinase (DNA-PK), the key component of the NHEJ pathway, becomes an important target for cancer therapy. A large number of small molecules exhibit inhibitory activities against DNA-PK in an ATP-competitive manner. This paper reviews the recent developments of a diversity of small molecule DNA-PK inhibitors, with emphasis on their structural features, biological activities, and structure-activity relationships (SARs).


A microporous metal-organic framework with both open metal and Lewis basic pyridyl sites for high C2H2 and CH4 storage at room temperature.
A new microporous metal-organic framework, Cu2(PDDI) (ZJU-5; H4PDDI = 5,5'-(pyridine-2,5-diyl)diisophthalic acid), was solvothermally synthesized and structurally characterized. With open metal sites, Lewis basic pyridyl sites and suitable pore space, the acetylene uptake in ZJU-5a reaches the highest value of 290 cm(3) g(-1) at 273 K and 1 bar. Furthermore, ZJU-5a exhibits high absolute methane storage of 190 cm(3) (STP) cm(-3) at 35 bar and 224 cm(3) (STP) cm(-3) at 60 bar at room temperature.


Remediation of soils contaminated with chromium using citric and hydrochloric acids: the role of chromium fractionation in chromium leaching.
Acid washing is a common method for soil remediation, but is not always efficient for chromium-contaminated soil. Both soil particle size and the forms of chromium existing in the soil affect the efficiency of soil washing. Laboratory batch and column dissolution experiments were conducted to determine the efficiencies of citric and hydrochloric acids as agents to extract chromium from soils contaminated with chromium. The effects of soil particle size and chromium fractionation on Cr leaching were also investigated. About 90% of chromium in the studied soil existed either in residual form or bound to iron and manganese oxides, and Cr fraction distributions were similar for all soil particle sizes. Almost all exchangeable and carbonate-bound chromium was removed by washing once with 0.5 M HCl, whereas organic chromium was more effectively removed by washing with citric acid rather than with HCl solution of the same concentration. For chromium fractions that were either bound to Fe-Mn oxides or existed as residual forms, the efficiencies of acid washing were usually 20% or less, except for 0.5 M HCl solution, which had much higher efficiencies. Separation of the soil sample by particle size before the separate washing of the soil fractions had little improvement on the chromium removal.


Maladaptive behaviour in children and adolescents with Down's syndrome.
Although children with Down's syndrome (DS) are at lower risk for psychopathology than others with intellectual disability, they do show more problems than typically developing children. However, age-related trends in these problems remain unclear. The present authors examined age-related changes in the maladaptive behaviours of 211 children and adolescents with DS aged between 4 and 19 years (mean = 9.74 years). Most participants (n = 180) were recruited from families residing in the greater Los Angeles area, California, USA, while a minority (n = 31) were patients from a clinic specializing in the psychiatric management of people with DS. The participants were divided into four age groups: (1) 4-6 years, (2) 7-9 years, (3) 10-13 years and (4) 14-19 years. Externalizing behaviours were lower across both the community and clinic samples, while internalizing behaviours were significantly higher in older adolescents aged between 14 and 19 years. Increases were found in withdrawal, seen in 63% of community-based adolescents, and 75% of clinic adolescents. Older adolescents with DS may show decreased externalizing symptoms and subtle increases in withdrawal. Possible relationships are discussed between these shifts and increased risks of later-onset depression and Alzheimer's disease in adults with DS.


Bronchodilatory effects of salbutamol, ipratropium bromide, and their combination: double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study in cystic fibrosis.
The efficacy of inhaled sympathomimetic and anticholinergic agents on airway obstruction in cystic fibrosis (CF) has been proven in several studies. However, studies comparing combined therapy with monotherapy led to divergent results, probably due to different study designs, different dosages, and the small numbers of patients investigated. Therefore, we wanted to answer the question which inhalation has the best short term effect: a sympathomimetic or an anticholinergic agent, or the combination of both. We investigated 17 patients with CF on 4 successive days in the morning, using pulmonary function testing before and 30 min after inhalation. Each patient received aerosolized salbutamol (SB, maximum dose (max.) 2.5 mg), ipratropium bromide (IB, max. 0.5 mg), the combination of both, or placebo (normal saline) in a randomized, double-blind crossover design. The mean forced expiratory volume in the first second improved significantly (adjusted P-value < 0.017) after each treatment compared to placebo. Analysis of variance showed that SB and combination therapy with SB and IB were superior to IB alone, without significant difference between SB and combination therapy. Response of a patient to combined therapy was usually associated with response to SB. Long-term efficacy and side effects of treatment with bronchodilators still remain to be investigated after this short term study. We conclude that in CF patients bronchodilator therapy with sympathomimetic agents is usually sufficient. Only in cases with proven additional benefit from inhalation by anticholinergics should combination therapy be recommended.


Corneal abrasions associated with Crawford mono-canalicular tubes.
Corneal abrasions are a known complication of lacrimal intubation. The authors describe two consecutive patients in which this occurred using the JEDMED (St. Louis, MO) mono-canalicular tube, and propose a mechanism, based on the flange design, as an explanation.


Ions, adsorption and electric response of a ferrofluid cell.
We show that the electric response of a cell in the shape of a slab containing a ferrofluid (magnetic particles in kerosene) can be interpreted by means of a model based on the adsorption of ions from limiting surfaces. We report on three samples, identical in all aspects, but limited by electrodes in gold, platinum and titanium. For frequency larger than 1 kHz, the spectra of the real and imaginary parts of the total electrical impedance of the cells are identical. From this result it follows that in this frequency range the response of the cell is independent of the electrodes, which can be considered as blocking. In the low frequency region, up to 0.3 mHz, the response of the cells depends on the electrodes, as discussed recently by Batalioto et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2021, 23, 2819. A simple generalization of the PNP model with ohmic boundary conditions works well only up to 10 mHz. For frequencies smaller than this value the reactance of the cells tends to increase again, indicating a capacity behaviour that could be related to the adsorption effect of the electrodes. A generalization of the ohmic PNP model containing surface capacitance in series is able to fit the data. From the value of the surface capacitance, the thickness of the surface layer is estimated to be on the molecular scale. From this result, we conclude that the adsorption phenomenon could be important for the description of the electrical properties of these systems. A simple generalization of the PNP model with boundary conditions derived by the Langmuir model is in reasonable agreement with our experimental data. The analysis is performed at the impedance level, taking into account a test based on the tangent of the loss angle of the system.


Preparation of Citric Acid-Sewage Sludge Hydrochar and Its Adsorption Performance for Pb(II) in Aqueous Solution.
In order to seek the value-added utilization method of sewage sludge and develop low-cost and high-efficient adsorbents, a hydrochar was prepared by the co-hydrothermal carbonization of sewage sludge and citric acid and then characterized. The differences in Pb(II) adsorption performance between the citric acid-sewage sludge hydrochars (AHC) and the hydrochar prepared solely from sewage sludge (SSHC) were also investigated. When citric acid dose ratio (mass ratio of citric acid to dry sewage sludge) is 0.1, the obtained hydrohcar (AHC0.1) has the highest specific surface area (59.95 m2·g-1), the most abundant oxygen-containing functional groups, the lowest pHpzc (5.43), and the highest equilibrium adsorption capacity for Pb(II). The maximum adsorption capacity of AHC0.1 for Pb(II) is 60.88 mg·g-1 (298 K), which is approximately 1.3 times that of SSHC. The potential mechanisms can be electrostatic attraction, co-precipitation, complexation, and cation-π interaction. It was demonstrated that by incorporating citric acid into the hydrothermal carbonization, resource utilization of sewage sludge can be accomplished effectively.


Six regularities of source recognition.
In recent work, researchers have shown that source-recognition memory can be incorporated in an extended signal detection model that covers both it and item-recognition memory (A. Hilford, M. Glanzer, K. Kim, & L. T. DeCarlo, 2002). In 5 experiments, using learning variables that have an established effect on item recognition, the authors tested further implications of that extended model. The results establish 6 source-recognition regularities that support the model. An important regularity in that set is the linkage of source and item recognition: Any learning variable that increases item recognition increases source recognition.


Ovary micromorphology and oogenesis in a rhyacodriline oligochaete (Clitellata: Naididae, Rhyacodrilinae).
The main goal of the article is to describe the ovary organization and oogenesis in Peristodrilus montanus, an aquatic oligochaete of the subfamily Rhyacodrilinae. The presented analysis will not only enrich the knowledge about how eggs are formed but, because of the suggested conservatism of ovary organization in clitellate annelids, can contribute to disentangling the complex phylogenetic relationships of the rhyacodrilines within Naididae. The paired, conically shaped ovaries are located in segment XI. They are composed of a dozen or so syncytial germ-line cysts, which are associated with somatic cells. Each germ cell in a cyst has one intercellular bridge that joins it to a central and anuclear cytoplasmic mass, the cytophore. This pattern of cyst organization is typical for all clitellates that have been studied to date. Initially, the germ cells in a cyst undergo a synchronous development, however, there is no synchrony between cysts, and therefore there is a developmental gradient (oogonia, pre-diplotene germ cells, germ cells in diplotene) of oogenesis along the long ovary axis. The cysts are composed of a maximum of 32 cells. Cysts with cells in diplotene detach from the ovaries and the extraovarian phase of oogenesis begins. The developmental synchrony is lost, one cell (an oocyte) per cyst starts to gather cell components and yolk and grows considerably. The remaining cells grow to some extent and function as nurse cells. Like in other microdriles, P. montanus oocytes are rich in yolk; other features of oogenesis are also similar to those that are known from other microdrile taxa. The system of ovary organization found in the studied species is broadly similar to the corresponding features known from Naidinae and Phreodrilidae and, to some extent, in Enchytraeidae. However, this system is different from the one that is known in Tubificinae, Limnodriloidinae and Branchiurinae.


A gene regulation network controlled by Celf1 protein-rbpj mRNA interaction in Xenopus somite segmentation.
Somite segmentation is impaired in Xenopus celf1 morphant embryos. The Celf1 RNA-binding protein targets bound mRNAs for rapid degradation, and antisense approaches demonstrated that segmentation defects in celf1 morphants were due to a derepression of rbpj mRNA. Rbpj protein is a key player of Notch signalling. Because segmentation involves complex cross-talk between several signalling pathways, we analysed how rbpj derepression impacted these pathways. We found that rbpj derepression stimulated the Notch pathway. Notch positively controlled the expression of cyp26a, which encodes a retinoic acid (RA)-degrading enzyme. Thus, rbpj derepression led to cyp26a overexpression and RA attenuation. It also repressed fgf8, consistent with an inhibition of FGF signalling. Pharmacological inhibition of the FGF pathway repressed cyp26a, but rbpj derepression was sufficient to restore cyp26a expression. Hence, while it was known that the FGF pathway antagonized RA signalling through expression of cyp26a, our results suggest that Rbpj mediates this antagonism. Furthermore, they show that the post-transcriptional repression exerted by Celf1 on rbpj mRNA is required to keep cyp26a expression under the control of FGF signalling. We conclude that rbpj repression by Celf1 is important to couple the FGF and RA pathways in Xenopus segmentation.


Volumetric lipoinjection of the fronto-orbital and temporal complex with adipose stem cells for the aesthetic restoration of sequelae of craniosynostosis.
Non-syndromic craniosynostosis causes craniofacial asymmetry and may persist after cranioplasty. These postoperative asymmetries are primarily depressions. In some cases, patients may be subjected to pranks and harassment by their peers, affecting their psychosocial development. We propose lipoinjection enriched with adipose stem cells (ASCs) to treat the sequelae of craniosynostosis in the fronto-orbital and temporal complex in cranioplasty patients, with the goal of improving the appearance of the upper third of the face. Twelve children (four boys and eight girls) between 4 and 8 years of age (mean age, 6 years) in the postoperative period after treatment for plagiocephaly, brachycephaly, and trigonocephaly were included, with a follow-up period of 1 to 18 months. Fat tissue was obtained from the lower abdomen, and ASCs were isolated using the Yoshimura technique. Lipoinjection was performed using several mini-approaches to ensure adequate distribution. Two different scales were used to evaluate the aesthetic outcomes. At 6 months, three plastic surgeons independent of the study classified the results using a Likert scale. The patients' parents categorized the results using a visual analog scale at 6, 9, and 18 months. R esults were favorable on both scales, as the patients' facial appearance improved and they reported increased happiness and self-esteem due to their remodeled facial appearance. We suggest that lipoinjection enriched with ASCs is a good alternative for correcting asymmetry of the fronto-orbital and temporal contour in patients with sequelae of craniosynostosis. This treatment will help boost patients' self-esteem starting at an early age.


A Rare Presentation of Autonomously Functioning Papillary Thyroid Cancer: Malignancy in Marine-Lenhart Syndrome Nodule.
Objective. Marine-Lenhart Syndrome (MLS) is defined as concomitant occurrence of autonomously functioning thyroid nodule (AFTN) with Graves' disease (GD). Malignancy in a functional nodule is rare. We aimed to present an extremely rare case of papillary thyroid cancer in a MLS nodule with lateral lymph node metastases. Case. A 43-year-old male presented with hyperthyroidism and Graves' ophthalmopathy. On Tc99m pertechnetate scintigraphy, a hyperactive nodule in the left upper thyroid pole was detected and the remaining tissue showed a mildly increased uptake. The ultrasonography demonstrated 15.5 × 13.5 × 12 mm sized hypoechoic nodule in the left upper pole of the thyroid and round lymph nodes on the left side of the neck. Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of the nodule and lymph node revealed cytological findings consistent with papillary cancer. Total thyroidectomy with central and left modified radical neck dissection was performed. On pathologic examination, two foci of micropapillary cancer were detected. The skip metastases were present in three lymph nodes on the neck. Conclusion. AFTN can be seen rarely in association with GD. It is not possible to exclude malignancy due to the clinical and imaging findings. In the presence of suspicious clinical and sonographic features, FNAB should be performed.


Parental psychological symptoms and familial risk factors of children and adolescents who exhibit school refusal.
To assess the levels of psychological symptoms in the parents of children with school refusal and determine the familial risk factors in its development. This study was performed on 55 pairs of parents who had children exhibiting school refusal and were compared with a control group. A socio-demographic data form, the Beck Depression Inventory, the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, and the Symptom Checklist-90 revised were applied to these parents. Parents of the school refusal group had higher anxiety and depression scores than the controls. Among the risk factors for school refusal, physical punishment by the parents, a history of organic disease in the parents or children, and a history of psychiatric disorders in the parents or other relatives were found to be significant. Depending on genetic and environmental factors, parents with psychiatric disorders appeared to be associated with development of psychiatric disorders in their children. Moreover, psychiatric disorders in parents negatively affected the treatment of their children and adolescents who exhibited school refusal. It is therefore vital to treat psychiatric disorders of parents with the children having psychiatric disorders, and thus increase parent participation in their children's therapeutic process.


Erlotinib attenuates the progression of chronic kidney disease in rats with remnant kidney.
Increasing evidence indicates that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has a pathogenic role in renal fibrosis. Currently no effective treatment can completely halt the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study was undertaken to investigate the renoprotective effects of erlotinib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that can block EGFR activity in the progression of CKD and the mechanisms involved. Sprague Dawley rats with 5/6 nephrectomy were administered either erlotinib or vehicle from 2 weeks after surgery and for a period of 8 weeks. Blood pressure, proteinuria and serum creatinine were measured periodically. Renal morphological investigations were performed at sacrifice. In vitro, we used normal human mesangial cells (NHMCs) and human proximal tubular cells to investigate the inhibitory effects of erlotinib on renal fibrosis-associated signaling pathways by western blotting. Erlotinib treatment significantly blunted the progression of CKD as evidenced by reduced levels of serum creatinine, proteinuria and renal cortical profibrogenic genes and scores of glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial damage. Tubulointerstitial macrophage infiltration and multiple pro-inflammatory cytokine gene expression levels were also attenuated by erlotinib treatment. In vitro, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor-induced Akt and extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2 activation in normal human mesangial cells and human proximal tubular cells was inhibited by pretreatment with erlotinib. EGFR blocking by erlotinib protected against renal fibrosis in 5/6 nephrectomized rats via inhibition of Akt and ERK 1/2 signaling pathways, which are associated with renal fibrosis. Erlotinib also has anti-inflammatory properties, which may contribute to its renoprotective effects. Erlotinib represents a potential novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of CKD.


Evolutionary games in Wright's island model: kin selection meets evolutionary game theory.
This article studies evolutionary game dynamics in Wright's infinite island model. I study a general n × n matrix game and derive a basic equation that describes the change in frequency of strategies. A close observation of this equation reveals that three distinct effects are at work: direct benefit to a focal individual, kin-selected indirect benefit to the focal individual via its relatives, and the cost caused by increased kin competition in the focal individual's natal deme. Crucial parameters are the coefficient of relatedness between two individuals and its analogue for three individuals. I provide a number of examples and show when the traditional inclusive fitness measure is recovered and when not. Results demonstrate how evolutionary game theory fits into the framework of kin selection.


Public-non-governmental organisation partnerships for health: an exploratory study with case studies from recent Ghanaian experience.
The last few decades have seen a dramatic increase in public-non-governmental organisation (NGO) partnerships in the health sector of many low- and middle- income countries (LMICs) as a means of improving the public's health. However, little research has focused to date on the nature, facilitators and barriers of these partnerships. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with 17 participants from five different NGOs and their collaboration with state partners in the Ghanaian health sector at the national and local levels in four regions of the country (Northern, Upper East, Greater Accra, and Eastern) to explore the drivers and nature of these partnerships and their advantages and disadvantages in the effort to improve the public's health. Major findings reveal that: 1) each collaboration between civil society organisations (CSOs) and the state in the health sector demands different partnerships; 2) partnership types can range from equal, formal contractual, decentralized to advocacy ones; 3) commitment by the state and NGOs to work in collaboration lead to improved service delivery, reduced health inequities and disparities; 4) added value of NGOs lies in their knowledge, expertise, community legitimacy, ability to attract donor funding and implementation capacity to address health needs in geographical areas or communities where the government does not reach and for services, which it does not provide and 5) success factors and challenges to be considered, moving forward to promote such partnerships in other LMICs. Recommendations are offered for NGOs, governments, donors, and future research including studying the organisational effectiveness and sustainability of these partnerships to deliver effective and efficient health outcomes to recommend universal best practices in health care.


Effects of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 on production, hatching performance, egg quality, serum antioxidant capacity and immune response of laying breeders.
To investigate the supplemental effects of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 on the production, hatching performance, egg quality, serum antioxidant capacity and immune response of laying breeders, a total of 480 Xuefeng black-bone (25-week-old) hens were randomly assigned into four treatment groups: Hens fed the basal diets with 0 (CON), 3.0 × 105 (BS-1), 6.0 × 105 cfu/g (BS-2) and 9.0 × 105 (BS-3) cfu/g of B. subtilis C-3102. As the B. subtilis C-3102 level increased, egg weight (linear, p < 0.01; quadratic, p = 0.003), fertility (linear, p = 0.021; quadratic, p = 0.059), hatchability (linear, p = 0.038; quadratic, p = 0.119) and yolk colour (linear, p = 0.006; quadratic, p = 0.021) increased in a linear or quadratic manner. Yolk index increased quadratically (linear, p = 0.054; quadratic, p = 0.017), and eggshell thickness (linear, p = 0.036; quadratic, p = 0.128), the activity of GSH-Px (linear, p = 0.024; quadratic, p = 0.078), the concentration of IgM (linear, p = 0.016; quadratic, p = 0.056) and the level of AIV-Ab (linear, p = 0.034; quadratic, p = 0.103) in the serum increased linearly as dietary supplementation of B. subtilis C-3102 increased. The results showed that dietary treatments did not affect egg production, feed conversion ratio, egg mass, hatchability of fertile eggs, eggshell-breaking strength, egg-shape index, yolk percentage, Haugh unit, T-SOD, T-AOC, MDA, IgA and IgG concentrations and the level of NDV-Ab in the serum. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of 9.0 × 105 cfu/g B. subtilis C-3102 in laying breeders diets may be a feasible means of effectively increasing egg weight, fertility and hatchability, and improving egg quality such as eggshell thickness, yolk index and yolk colour. Besides, B. subtilis C-3102 can enhance the activity of GSH-Px, the concentration of IgM and the level of AIV-Ab in the serum.


Entangling macroscopic oscillators exploiting radiation pressure.
It is shown that radiation pressure can be profitably used to entangle macroscopic oscillators like movable mirrors, using present technology. We prove a new sufficient criterion for entanglement and show that the achievable entanglement is robust against thermal noise. Its signature can be revealed using common optomechanical readout apparatus.


Separation of proteins of nearly the same size but having different isoelectric points by convective electrophoresis.
A method for separating proteins of nearly the same size but having different isoelectric points is presented. The method used is convective electrophoresis, which is based on the simultaneous effects of diffusion, electrical migration and opposing convective flow on the transport of proteins through a porous membrane. The pairs of model proteins used in this study were cytochrome c-lysozyme and human serum albumin-haemoglobin. The obtained results show that with a careful adjustment of pH these proteins can be separated by a continuous manner, and no coupling of protein fluxes could be detected in either case.


The Arabidopsis RETARDED ROOT GROWTH gene encodes a mitochondria-localized protein that is required for cell division in the root meristem.
To develop a growing root, cell division in the root meristem has to be properly regulated in order to generate or propagate new cells. How cell division is regulated in the root meristem remains largely unknown. Here, we report the identification and characterization of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) RETARDED ROOT GROWTH (RRG) gene that plays a role in the regulation of root meristem cell division. In the root, RRG is predominantly expressed in the root meristem. Disruption of RRG function reduced numbers of dividing cells, the rate of cell production, and endoreduplication, and thus affected meristem size and root growth. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and marker-assisted analyses revealed that expression levels of several cell cycle genes were decreased in the mutant roots, indicating a defect in cell cycle progression. Mutations in RRG, however, did not affect the expression of key root-patterning genes and an auxin-responsive marker, suggesting that RRG is not essential for root patterning and auxin signaling. RRG is a mitochondria-localized protein conserved in plants and shares a DUF155 domain with proteins related to cell division in yeast, and rrg mutants displayed extensive vacuolization in mitochondria. We propose that Arabidopsis RRG is a conserved mitochondrial protein required for cell division in the root meristem.


Direct Formation of Colloidal All-Inorganic Metal Nanocrystals from Magic-Size Clusters.
All-inorganic metal nanocrystals (NCs) offer an ideal platform for atomically precise surface design and show improved electrocatalytic activity compared to conventional NCs capped with organic ligands. Here, we show the possibility of obtaining colloidal all-inorganic Au NCs directly from magic-size clusters (MSCs) with the assistance of inorganic molecules, NOBF4 or Na2S2O8. The unique advantages of NOBF4 or Na2S2O8 as both oxidizing agents and stripping ligands are taken to tune the surface state of Au25(PET)18-TOA+ MSCs and assemble them to form either positively or negatively charged all-inorganic Au NCs. We show that positively charged all-inorganic Au NCs can be further modified with different functional groups, which provide the possibility to meet the target requirements. We found that the negatively charged NCs exhibit improved faradaic efficiency (FE = 92%) for the reduction of CO2 to CO at -0.369 V (vs RHE) and a 5-fold increase in current density compared to organic-capped Au NCs (FE = 67%). In addition, we extended this approach to other MSCs and formed all-inorganic metal NCs with different compositions and morphologies. The use of simple inorganic ligands to induce the conversion from MSCs to metal NCs enriches the current solution process of synthesizing all-inorganic NCs and can open up more opportunities for designing colloidal nanocrystal catalysts.


Effect of Suppression of Rotational Joint Instability on Cartilage and Meniscus Degeneration in Mouse Osteoarthritis Model.
Joint instability and meniscal dysfunction contribute to the onset and progression of knee osteoarthritis (OA). In the destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) model, secondary OA occurs due to the rotational instability and increases compressive stress resulting from the meniscal dysfunction. We created a new controlled abnormal tibial rotation (CATR) model that reduces the rotational instability that occurs in the DMM model. So, we aimed to investigate whether rotational instability affects articular cartilage degeneration using the DMM and CATR models, as confirmed using histology and immunohistochemistry. Twelve-week-old male mice were randomized into 3 groups: DMM group, CATR group, and INTACT group (right knee of the DMM group). After 8 and 12 weeks, we performed the tibial rotational test, safranin-O/fast green staining, and immunohistochemical staining for tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and metalloproteinase (MMP)-13. The rotational instability in the DMM group was significantly higher than that of the other groups. And articular cartilage degeneration was higher in the DMM group than in the other groups. However, meniscal degeneration was observed in both DMM and CATR groups. The TNF-α and MMP-13 positive cell rates in the articular cartilage of the CATR group were lower than those in the DMM group. We found that the articular cartilage degeneration was delayed by controlling the rotational instability caused by meniscal dysfunction. These findings suggest that suppression of rotational instability in the knee joint may be an effective therapeutic measure for preventing OA progression.


[Hygienic characterization of lactic acid bacteria products prepared by using hydrolysates of raw milk and soya bean materials].
The paper reflects the results of a comparative study of preparations of lactic acid bacteria (LAB), which are based on the hydrolysates of raw milk and soya bean materials, by using methods to determine the organoleptic and physicochemical properties, microbiological characteristics including the titer of microbial cells per ml of the preparation and the presence/absence of representatives of sanitary significant groups of microorganisms, the persistent properties of microorganisms. By summarizing the findings, it can be stated that it is possible to use a raw soya-bean hydrolysate-based nutrient medium to cultivate technical LAB strains with the compliance of the toxicological and microbiological parameters of the prepared preparations with the current sanitary standards. The LAB preparations grown on the hydrolysate-soya-bean medium have been protected with the patents of Russia. Their biological properties are highly competitive with those and, in some cases, superior to hydrolysate-milk medium-based preparations. This presents in their adhesive potential and in the formation of more pronounced antagonistic properties against opportunistic microorganisms.


Synthesis and Antibacterial Properties of Oligomeric Dehydrogenation Polymer from Lignin Precursors.
The lignin precursors of coniferin and syringin were synthesised, and guaiacyl-type and guaiacyl-syringyl-type oligomeric lignin dehydrogenation polymers (DHP and DHP-GS) were prepared with the bulk method. The carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed that both DHP-G and DHP-GS contained β-O-4, β-5, β-β, β-1, and 5-5 substructures. Extraction with petroleum ether, ether, ethanol, and acetone resulted in four fractions for each of DHP-G (C11-C14) and DHP-GS (C21-C24). The antibacterial experiments showed that the fractions with lower molecular weight had relatively strong antibacterial activity. The ether-soluble fractions (C12 of DHP-G and C22 of DHP-GS) had strong antibacterial activities against E. coli and S. aureus. The C12 and C22 fractions were further separated by preparative chromatography, and 10 bioactive compounds (G1-G5 and GS1-GS5) were obtained. The overall antibacterial activities of these 10 compounds was stronger against E. coli than S. aureus. Compounds G1, G2, G3, and GS1, which had the most significant antibacterial activities, contained β-5 substructures. Of these, G1 had the best antibacterial activity. Its inhibition zone diameter was 19.81 ± 0.82 mm, and the minimum inhibition concentration was 56.3 ± 6.20 μg/mL. Atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation mass spectrometry (APCI-MS) showed that the antibacterial activity of G1 was attributable to a phenylcoumarin dimer, while the introduction of syringyl units reduced antibacterial activity.


The dense deposits disease of the renal basement membranes.
Dense-deposits disease is characterized by an original morphological aspect of the renal basement membranes which have an electron-dense appearance. The immunofluorescence studies showed C3 alone in kidney. Low serum C3 levels and the presence of C3 NF activity have been detected in this disease, demonstrating an activation of the complement alternative pathway. The observation of recurrence in transplanted kidneys contributed to establish the sequence of the morphological events and showed the dissociation between the serological complement profiles and the lesions. Although the nature of the dense deposits remains still unknown, the altered membranes are recognized by at least some anti-GBM antibodies.


A Carboxy-Terminal Monoleucine-Based Motif Participates in the Basolateral Targeting of the Na+/I- Symporter.
The Na+/iodide (I-) symporter (NIS), a glycoprotein expressed at the basolateral plasma membrane of thyroid follicular cells, mediates I- accumulation for thyroid hormonogenesis and radioiodide therapy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma. However, differentiated thyroid tumors often exhibit lower I- transport than normal thyroid tissue (or even undetectable I- transport). Paradoxically, the majority of differentiated thyroid cancers show intracellular NIS expression, suggesting abnormal targeting to the plasma membrane. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the mechanisms that regulate NIS plasma membrane transport would have multiple implications for radioiodide therapy. In this study, we show that the intracellularly facing carboxy-terminus of NIS is required for the transport of the protein to the plasma membrane. Moreover, the carboxy-terminus contains dominant basolateral information. Using internal deletions and site-directed mutagenesis at the carboxy-terminus, we identified a highly conserved monoleucine-based sorting motif that determines NIS basolateral expression. Furthermore, in clathrin adaptor protein (AP)-1B-deficient cells, NIS sorting to the basolateral plasma membrane is compromised, causing the protein to also be expressed at the apical plasma membrane. Computer simulations suggest that the AP-1B subunit σ1 recognizes the monoleucine-based sorting motif in NIS carboxy-terminus. Although the mechanisms by which NIS is intracellularly retained in thyroid cancer remain elusive, our findings may open up avenues for identifying molecular targets that can be used to treat radioiodide-refractory thyroid tumors that express NIS intracellularly.


Influence of Er,Cr:YSGG laser on CaF₂ -like products formation because of professional acidulated fluoride or to domestic dentifrice application.
This study evaluated the synergy of professional acidulated fluoride gel (APF) or fluoridated dentifrice application combined with Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation on the formation of CaF2 -like products (CaF2 ), in vitro. Thus, 272 bovine enamel slabs were randomly distributed among eight groups: G1: untreated enamel; G2: treated with fluoridated dentifrice (NaF, 1,100 μgF/g); G3: treated with acidulated phosphate fluoride gel (APF, 1.23% F(-) ); G4: irradiated with Er,Cr:YSGG laser at 8.5 J/cm(2) ; G5 and G6: combination of pre-irradiation with Er,Cr:YSGG followed by dentifrice or APF application, respectively; G7: combination of dentifrice application followed by Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation; G8: combination of APF application followed by Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation. After treatments, samples were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, and the content of CaF2 was determined by an ion specific electrode. Both APF and dentifrice application promoted the formation of CaF2 on enamel, whereas Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation promoted an increase of roughness of the enamel, increasing the surface area. Laser irradiation before fluoridated products increased the content of CaF2 formed when compared to groups that APF or dentifrice were applied isolated. However, the content of CaF2 formed when irradiation was performed after APF or dentifrice was not statically significant when compared to the control groups. In conclusion, Er,Cr:YSGG laser increases the formation of CaF2 on enamel when the irradiation is performed before the application of APF or dentifrice. The association of laser with APF is most promissory for caries prevention because of the higher concentration of CaF2 formation and also the chemical changes promoted by laser irradiation demonstrated in literature.


IGF-I inhibitors reduce compensatory hyperfiltration in the isolated rat kidney following unilateral nephrectomy.
A role for insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) as a mediator of renal hyperfiltration and hyperperfusion following unilateral nephrectomy (UNx) has been examined. Adult male Wistar rats were subjected to either left UNx or sham operation. Twenty one days after surgery, the right kidney was removed under barbiturate anaesthesia, and renal function was measured ex vivo using an isolated rat kidney perfusion system. The glomerular filtration rate was assessed from the renal clearance of [(14)C]inulin. UNx stimulated renal growth as shown by a significantly higher (P<0.02) tissue dry weight in kidneys from UNx (0.45+/-0.02 g) than from sham-operated rats (0.31+/-0.02 g). Compensatory hyperfiltration could be detected ex vivo; kidneys obtained from UNx rats having a significantly higher (P<0.05) [(14)C]inulin clearance (0.75+/-0.08 ml/min, n=8) than kidneys obtained from sham-operated animals (0.39+/-0.05 ml/min, n=8). Compensatory hyperperfusion was also detected ex vivo; kidneys obtained from UNx rats having a significantly higher (P<0.05) renal perfusate flow (28.2+/-2.7 ml/min) than kidneys obtained from sham-operated rats (22.5+/-0.8 ml/min). Following perfusion with either 50 microg monoclonal IGF-I antibody (n=4) or 6.5 microM genistein (n=4), an inhibitor of tyrosine kinase, no significant difference in [(14)C]inulin was observed between kidneys obtained from either UNx or sham-operated rats. In contrast to hyperfiltration, renal hyperperfusion remained unaffected by the IGF-I antibody and was only reduced by 30% following genistein administration. The results suggest a role for renal IGF-I as a mediator of compensatory hyperfiltration in the rat.


Characterization of Ambient Air Quality in Selected Urban Areas in Uganda Using Low-Cost Sensing and Measurement Technologies.
Air pollution is prevalent in cities and urban centers in developing countries including sub-Saharan Africa, but ground monitoring data on local pollution remain inadequate, hindering effective mitigation. We employed low-cost sensing and measurement technologies to quantify pollution levels based on particulate matter (PM2.5), NO2, and O3 over a 6 month period for selected urban centers in three of the four macroregions in Uganda. PM2.5 diurnal profiles exhibited consistent patterns across all monitoring locations with higher pollution levels manifesting from 18:00 to 00:00 and from 06:00 to 09:00; while the periods from 00:00 to 05:00 and from 09:00 to 17:00 had the lowest levels. Daily PM2.5 varied widely between 34 and 107 μg/m3 over a 7 day period, well within unhealthy levels (55.5-150.4 μg/m3) for short-term exposure. The inconsistent daily trend are instructive for multiple pollutant assessment to aid specific policy initiatives. The results also show inverse relations between seasonal particulate levels and precipitation, that is, R (correlation coefficient) = -0.93 and -0.62 for Kampala and Wakiso, R = -0.49 and -0.44 for the Eastern region, and R = -0.65 and -0.96 for the Western region. NO2 monthly concentrations replicated PM2.5 spatial levels, whereas O3 exhibited inverse relations probably due to a higher retention time in less-urbanized environments. Both PM2.5 and NO2 correlated positively with the resident population. Our findings show significant spatiotemporal variations and exceedances of health guidelines by about 4-6 times across most study locations (with two exceptions) for longer-term exposure. This paper demonstrably highlights the practicability and potential of low-cost approaches for air quality monitoring, with strong prospects for citizen science. This paper also provides novel information regarding air pollution that is needed to improve control strategies for reducing exposures.


Estimated maximum thyroid doses from 129I releases from the Hanford site for the years 1944-1995.
129I, a very long lived fission product, persisted in the environment after discharge from the chemical reprocessing plants at Hanford. The significance to human health is evaluated by considering the maximum possible impact it might have. Allowing the total production of 129I to be discharged to the air and considering the location where the maximally exposed individuals residue, the lifetime cumulative thyroid dose is calculated as a function of birth year. The maximally exposed individual at the maximum exposure location was born in 1954 and accumulates a thyroid dose between 1954 and 1995 of slightly over 9,000 microSv (900 mrem) at an average rate of 220 microSv (22 mrem) y-1. Over the same period of time, the soft tissue dose from background radiation due to both external and internal radiation is about 38,000 microSv (3,800 mRem).


Neurotoxic potential of polystyrene nanoplastics in primary cells originating from mouse brain.
Polystyrene (PS) and chemically modified compounds in the PS family have long been used in commercial and industrial fields. However, it is poorly understood whether nanoscale-PS microplastic or PS nanoplastic exposure leads to perturbations in fundamental cellular functions, such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Herein, we cultured three types of primary cells, including mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), mixed neuronal cells isolated from embryonic cortex, and cortical astrocytes, and investigated the effects of their exposure to PS nanoplastics with a 100 nm diameter. Although PS nanoplastic exposure did not affect the viability of MEFs or astrocytes, it significantly reduced the viability of mixed neuronal cells. Consistent with the observed effect on cellular viability, levels of the apoptosis marker, cleaved caspase-3, were elevated exclusively in mixed neuronal cells. To investigate whether cells uptake PS nanoplastics into the cytoplasm, we exposed MEFs and neurons to fluorescent PS latex beads and monitored fluorescence over time. We found that PS nanoplastics were deposited and accumulated in the cytoplasm in a concentration-dependent manner. Although astrocytes were not apoptotic upon exposure to PS nanoplastics, they underwent reactive astrocytosis, with increased levels of lipocalin-2 and proinflammatory cytokines. Therefore, our findings suggested that the vulnerability of cells to the deposition and accumulation of PS nanoplastics in the cytoplasm was dependent on cell type. Furthermore, based on our data from primary cells originating from mouse brains, we suggest that reactive astrocytosis may contribute to the neuronal apoptosis seen in defective neurons with PS nanoplastics accumulated in the cell body.


Primary hyperlipidemia in a pediatric population: classification and effect of dietary treatment.
Patients seen at a pediatric lipid clinic over a 27-month period were reviewed retrospectively to evaluate types of primary lipid disorders and effect of dietary treatment at the first follow-up visit. One hundred eighty-two patients were classified into one of four categories: (1) elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) with LDL-C > 95th percentile (32%); (2) isolated triglyceride (TG)/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) abnormalities, with TG > 95th percentile and/or HDL-C < 5th percentile (30%); (3) borderline LDL-C, TG, or HDL-C (29%); (4) normal (9%). The American Heart Association Step-One Diet was prescribed for all patients older than 2 years, and they received extensive nutritional and risk-management counseling. Of these patients, 59 (32%) returned for at least one follow-up visit and mean changes in lipid values between initial and first follow-up visits were evaluated. Levels of LDL-C decreased by 24 mg/dL in 22 patients with elevated LDL-C levels. Triglyceride levels decreased by a mean of 22 mg/dL and HDL-C increased by a mean of 4 mg/dL in 21 patients with isolated TG/HDL-C abnormalities. Levels of LDL-C tended to rise in this group, but not to a significant degree. A new finding of this report is that screening for total cholesterol results in the identification of many children with TG or HDL-C abnormalities alone and that the Step-One Diet appears to be effective in improving both TG and HDL-C levels in these patients.


Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the kidney misdiagnosed as renal cell carcinoma.
The inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT), also knowns as inflammatory pseuduotumor, is a soft tissue lesion of unknown etiology. In the urogenital tract, IMT mainly affects the urinary bladder or prostate, but rarely the kidney. It has been considered as a nonneoplastic reactive inflammatory lesion, but nowadays, it is regarded as a neoplasm due to its high recurrence rate and metastasis. We describe a case of a 61-yr-old woman that had originally been misdiagnosed as renal cell carcinoma, which was pathologically revealed to be an IMT.


Data-Based Prediction and Stochastic Analysis of Entrained Flow Coal Gasification under Uncertainty.
Entrained flow gasification is a commonly used method for conversion of coal into syngas. A stable and efficient operation of entrained flow coal gasification is always desired to reduce consumption of raw materials and utilities, and achieve higher productivity. However, uncertainty in the process hinders the stability and efficiency. In this work, a quantitative analysis of the effect of uncertainty on the conversion efficiency of the entrained flow gasification is performed. A data-driven, i.e., ensemble, model of the process was developed to predict conversion efficiency of the process. Then sensitivity analysis methods, i.e., Sobol and Fourier amplitude sensitivity test, were used to analyze the effect of each individual process variables on conversion efficiency. For analyzing the collective impact of uncertainty in process variables on conversion efficiency, a non-intrusive polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) method was used. The PCE predicts probability distribution of the conversion efficiency. Reliability of the process was determined on the basis of percentage of the probability distribution falling within control limits. Measured data is used to derive the control limits for off-line reliability analysis. For on-line reliability analysis of the process, measured data is not available so a just-in-time method, i.e., k⁻d tree, was used. The k⁻d tree searches the nearest neighbor sample from a database of historical data to determine the control limits.


Strength of Pulvertaft modifications: tensile testing of porcine flexor tendons.
The aim of the study was to present two new modifications of the Pulvertaft weave, allowing a higher number of weaves without the need for a longer overlap. The mechanical properties were measured and compared with the traditional technique. Forty-five pairs of porcine flexor tendons were randomized to a Pulvertaft repair with three weaves, a Double Pulvertaft and Locking Pulvertaft repairs. In the last two repairs one of the tendons in each repair was split in two before weaving. A difference in the maximum stiffness was observed between the three groups (p = 0.024). All repairs failed by the sutures being sheared through the tendons splitting the tendon fibres longitudinally. The two modifications were both stronger than the Pulvertaft weave and provide an alternative when a strong connection is needed and a longer overlap is impossible.