Correlation of isomeric fatty acids in human adipose tissue with clinical risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
The relationships between the adipose tissue concentrations of 19 geometric and positional fatty acid isomers and 10 cardiovascular disease risk factors were determined in 76 free-living adult males. The percentages for trans isomers (total mean +/- SD 4.14 +/- 0.97%) and cis isomers (total mean +/- SD 2.91 +/- 0.34%) in adipose tissue generally agreed with dietary estimates based on the consumption of hydrogenated oils. A major exception was the percentage of 11c-18:1, which was twofold higher in adipose tissue. The total level of fatty acid isomers in adipose tissue or a factor (derived by factor analysis) that was representative of isomers of dietary origin was not significantly correlated with the cardiovascular risk factors. Only three trans isomers (11t-18:1, 12t-18:1, and 5t-14:1) and three cis isomers (11c-18:1, 13c-18:1, and 7c-16:1) were weakly correlated either positively or negatively with age, body mass index, plasma and lipoprotein cholesterol, and/or blood pressure (P less than 0.05, r greater than 0.231).


Accurate predictions of nonpolar solvation free energies require explicit consideration of binding-site hydration.
Continuum solvation methods are frequently used to increase the efficiency of computational methods to estimate free energies. In this paper, we have evaluated how well such methods estimate the nonpolar solvation free-energy change when a ligand binds to a protein. Three different continuum methods at various levels of approximation were considered, viz., the polarized continuum model (PCM), a method based on cavity and dispersion terms (CD), and a method based on a linear relation to the solvent-accessible surface area (SASA). Formally rigorous double-decoupling thermodynamic integration was used as a benchmark for the continuum methods. We have studied four protein-ligand complexes with binding sites of varying solvent exposure, namely the binding of phenol to ferritin, a biotin analogue to avidin, 2-aminobenzimidazole to trypsin, and a substituted galactoside to galectin-3. For ferritin and avidin, which have relatively hidden binding sites, rather accurate nonpolar solvation free energies could be obtained with the continuum methods if the binding site is prohibited to be filled by continuum water in the unbound state, even though the simulations and experiments show that the ligand replaces several water molecules upon binding. For the more solvent exposed binding sites of trypsin and galectin-3, no accurate continuum estimates could be obtained, even if the binding site was allowed or prohibited to be filled by continuum water. This shows that continuum methods fail to give accurate free energies on a wide range of systems with varying solvent exposure because they lack a microscopic picture of binding-site hydration as well as information about the entropy of water molecules that are in the binding site before the ligand binds. Consequently, binding affinity estimates based upon continuum solvation methods will give absolute binding energies that may differ by up to 200 kJ/mol depending on the method used. Moreover, even relative energies between ligands with the same scaffold may differ by up to 75 kJ/mol. We have tried to improve the continuum solvation methods by adding information about the solvent exposure of the binding site or the hydration of the binding site, and the results are promising at least for this small set of complexes.


Platinum nanoparticles stabilized by cucurbit[6]uril with enhanced catalytic activity and excellent poisoning tolerance for methanol electrooxidation.
Three sub-10 nm platinum nanoparticles (PtNPs) with distinctive morphologies were developed by using cucurbit[6]uril (CB[6]) as stabilizing agent and support. Both the size and shape of the PtNPs were simultaneously controlled by tuning the reducing agents. The prepared NPs have been comprehensively characterized by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. On account of the presence of CB[6] and its unique structural features, the as-prepared PtNPs are homogeneous in morphologies and exhibit higher activities toward methanol electrooxidation than commercial Pt/C. CB[6] has the ability to bind small molecules that can promote CO oxidation, therefore, all the three PtNPs showed enhanced poisoning tolerance. Such unique abilities of CB[6] can even promote the poisoning tolerance of commercial Pt/C through simple physical mixing.


A study of peripheral T-Lymphocytes in alopecia areata.
Estimation of peripheral T-lymphocytes (active and total) was carried out in 100 cases of alopecia areata as per method described by Boyam (1977) and West et al (1978). Clinically patients were divided in two groups, alopecia areata circumscribed (group I) and severe alopecia areata (group II). Thirty healthy subjects served as controls. Decrease in percentage of both active and total E-RFC was observed in 70% cases. The decrease was more significant in group II.


Asymmetric localisation of Miranda and its cargo proteins during neuroblast division requires the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome.
Asymmetric cell divisions generate cell fate diversity during both invertebrate and vertebrate development. Drosophila neural progenitors or neuroblasts (NBs) each divide asymmetrically to produce a larger neuroblast and a smaller ganglion mother cell (GMC). The asymmetric localisation of neural cell fate determinants and their adapter proteins to the neuroblast cortex during mitosis facilitates their preferential segregation to the GMC upon cytokinesis. In this study we report a novel role for the anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) during this process. Attenuation of APC/C activity disrupts the asymmetric localisation of the adapter protein Miranda and its associated cargo proteins Staufen, Prospero and Brat, but not other components of the asymmetric division machinery. We demonstrate that Miranda is ubiquitylated via its C-terminal domain; removal of this domain disrupts Miranda localisation and replacement of this domain with a ubiquitin moiety restores normal asymmetric Miranda localisation. Our results demonstrate that APC/C activity and ubiquitylation of Miranda are required for the asymmetric localisation of Miranda and its cargo proteins to the NB cortex.


Long-term in vivo bioactivity and degradability of bulk sol-gel bioactive glasses.
Melt-derived bioactive glasses have been used with success in various clinical applications for over 10 years. Recently, particles of sol-gel-derived bioactive glasses with an initial high specific surface area have been shown to exhibit excellent osteoconductive properties as well as significant degradability. In this work, we explored the long-term in vivo bioactivity and degradability of bulk sol-gel-derived glasses in a rabbit model. Two sol-gel compositions (58S and 77S Bioglass) were used. Bulk 45S5 Bioglass was used as a control. Both sol-gel-derived glasses demonstrated osteoconductive properties similar to 45S5 Bioglass. In addition, absorbability was observed for both sol-gel-derived glasses starting after 12 weeks of implantation. Total absorption reached 40% after 52 weeks. No degradation could be measured in the case of bulk 45S5 melt-derived Bioglass within 1 year of implantation. The degradation process was highly time dependent, as demonstrated by regression analysis. New bone formation was found to fill in areas that had been resorbed, similar to bone remodeling. This absorbability can be assumed to be at least partially related to an osteoclastic resorption as viable osteoclasts-like cells were found to be in direct contact with the glass surfaces.


Induction of neovascularization by activated human monocytes.
Neovascularization, the process of new blood vessel growth, is an important feature of many pathologic and physiologic processes. Monocytes were isolated from citrated blood buffy coat of healthy adult human donors on Ficoll-Hypaque gradients. Mononuclear cells from these gradients were fractionated on discontinuous Percoll gradients; monocyte-enriched fractions were isolated and assessed for angiogenic activity in rat corneas. Freshly isolated monocytes as well as monocytes cultured for 20 hr on fibronectin-coated collagen gels failed to stimulate neovascularization. In contrast, adherent monocytes activated with concanavalin A (25 micrograms/ml) or endotoxin (5 micrograms/ml) for 20 hr were found to be potently angiogenic. We conclude that peripheral blood monocytes must be activated to acquire the ability to induce new blood vessel growth, a process central to inflammation, wound healing, and tumor development.


Toward a social ecology of the home-care household.
I examined the relation between household parameters of size, composition, and temporal variability and indicators of care-giver and elder well-being. Two discrete groups of 20 care-giver-elder pairs were included in the study: (a) a group in which elders were moderately to severely cognitively impaired, but physically well, and (b) a group in which elders were moderately to severely physically disabled, but cognitively unimpaired. Care givers and elders were interviewed and assessed in their homes, and the care giver completed a 3-day log of home-care activities. Results indicated that care-giver and elder well-being are related to opposite values of the same household parameters in the two groups. The study demonstrates the utility of a social-ecological framework for research on home care, and suggests that the degree of fit of any particular household arrangement is relative to the competence-disability profile of the elder in care.


Antidiarrheal Activity of Dissotis multiflora (Sm) Triana (Melastomataceae) Leaf Extract in Wistar Rats and Subacute Toxicity Evaluation.
The present work was undertaken to evaluate antidiarrheal activity of ethanolic leaf extract of Dissotis multiflora (Sm) Triana (D. multiflora) on Shigella flexneri-induced diarrhea in Wistar rats and its subacute toxicity. Diarrhea was induced by oral administration of 1.2 × 109 cells/mL S. flexneri to rats. Antidiarrheal activity was investigated in rats with the doses of 111.42 mg/kg, 222.84 mg/kg, and 445.68 mg/kg. The level of biochemical parameters was assessed and organs histology examined by 14 days' subacute toxicity. S. flexneri stool load decreased significantly in dose-dependent manner. The level of ALT increased (p < 0.05) in male rats treated with the dose of 445.68 mg/kg while creatinine level increased in rats treated with both doses. In female rats, a significant decrease (p < 0.05) of the level of AST and creatinine was noted in rats treated with the dose of 222.84 mg/kg of D. multiflora. Histological exams of kidney and liver of treated rats showed architectural modifications at the dose of 445.68 mg/kg. This finding suggests that D. multiflora leaf extract is efficient against diarrhea caused by S. flexneri but the treatment with doses lower than 222.84 mg/kg is recommended while further study is required to define the exact efficient nontoxic dose.


Report: anaerobic digestion of a sulphate-rich high-strength landfill leachate: the effect of differential dosing with FeCl3.
The effect of different dose concentrations of FeCl3 on the performance of a mesophilic anaerobic digester treating a highly alkaline, high-strength and sulphate-rich landfill leachate was tested. The results indicated that sulphate reduction was the predominant reaction and methanogenic processes were entirely inhibited in the reactor without FeCl3 addition. Adding FeCl3 into the reactor restored some methanogenic activity and also improved the rates of sulphate reduction. A combination of sulphate reduction and methanogenic activity resulted in up to 75% chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal and 85% sulphate removal. Sulphate reduction remained the principle mechanism by which COD removal took place with a methane yield of only between 0.14 and 0.18 m3 CH4 kg(-1) COD removed being achieved. The process was, however, stable and offered advantages for the further treatment or conveyance of the anaerobically treated leachate.


The Orientation Selectivity of Spike-LFP Synchronization in Macaque V1 and V4.
Orientation selectivity is a fundamental property of visual cortical neurons and plays a crucial role in pattern perception. Although many studies have dedicated to explain how the orientation selectivity emerged, the mechanism underlying orientation selectivity is still not clear. In this work, we investigated the synchronization between spikes and local field potentials (LFP) in gamma band, with the aim of providing a new avenue to analyze the orientation selectivity. The experimental data were recorded by utilizing two chronically implanted multi-electrode arrays, where each array consisted of 48 electrodes and was placed over V1 and V4, respectively, in two macaques performing a selective visual attention task. An unbiased and robust measure for quantifying the synchronization between spikes and LFP was employed in the analysis process, which is termed as spike-triggered correlation matrix synchronization (SCMS) and performs reliably for limited samples of data. We observed the spike-LFP synchronization in three cases, i.e., spikes and LFP in V1, spikes and LFP in V4, spikes in V4 and LFP in V1. From the orientation tuning curves based on the spike-LFP synchronization, it is found that there is a strong correlation between the synchronization and grating orientation. The neurons in both V1 and V4 exhibit orientation selectivity, but V1 is stronger. In addition, the spike-LFP synchronization strength between V1 and V4 also shows orientation selectivity to drifting gratings. It means that the synchronization not only reflects the basic features of visual stimulation, but also describes the orientation tuning characteristics of neurons in different regions. Our results suggest that the spike-LFP synchronization can be used as an alternative and effective method to study the mechanism for generating orientation selectivity of visual neurons.


[Effects of Slope Position and Soil Horizon on Soil Microbial Biomass and Abundance in Karst Primary Forest of Southwest China].
To explore the effects of slope position and soil horizon on soil microbial biomass and abundance, chloroform fumigation extraction methods and real-time fluorescence-based quantitative PCR (Real-time PCR) were adopted to quantify the changes of soil microbial biomass C, N and abundance of bacteria and fungi, respectively. Soil samples were harvested from three horizons along profile, i. e., leaching horizon (A, 0-10 cm), transitional horizon (AB, 30-50 cm) and alluvial horizon (B, 70-100 cm), which were collected from the upper, middle and lower slope positions of a karst primary forest ecosystem. The results showed that slope position, soil horizon and their interaction significantly influenced the soil microbial biomass and abundance (P < 0.05). Different from A horizon, where SMBC was greater in lower than in upper slope position (P < 0.05), SMBC in AB and B horizons were highest in middle slope position. Similarly, SMBN was greater in lower than in upper slope position for A, AB and B horizons. Besides soil bacterial abundance in B horizon and fungal abundance in AB layer, the middle slope position had the highest value for all the three soil horizons (P < 0.05). Stepwise regression analysis showed that soil organic carbon, available nitrogen and pH were the key factors responsible for SMBC and SMBN variation, respectively, while the important factors responsible for the variation of bacteria abundance were available nitrogen and available phosphorus, and that for fungi abundance variation were available potassium.


Differential survival of solitary and aggregated bacterial cells promotes aggregate formation on leaf surfaces.
The survival of individual Pseudomonas syringae cells was determined on bean leaf surfaces maintained under humid conditions or periodically exposed to desiccation stress. Cells of P. syringae strain B728a harboring a GFP marker gene were visualized by epifluorescence microscopy, either directly in situ or after recovery from leaves, and dead cells were identified as those that were stained with propidium iodide in such populations. Under moist, conducive conditions on plants, the proportion of total live cells was always high, irrespective of their aggregated state. In contrast, the proportion of the total cells that remained alive on leaves that were periodically exposed to desiccation stress decreased through time and was only approximately 15% after 5 days. However, the fraction of cells in large aggregates that were alive on such plants in both condition was much higher than more solitary cells. Immediately after inoculation, cells were randomly distributed over the leaf surface and no aggregates were observed. However, a very aggregated pattern of colonization was apparent within 7 days, and >90% of the living cells were located in aggregates of 100 cells or more. Our results strongly suggest that, although conducive conditions favor aggregate formation, such cells are much more capable of tolerating environmental stresses, and the preferential survival of cells in aggregates promotes a highly clustered spatial distribution of bacteria on leaf surfaces.


Brains, bodies and metabolism.
The interrelationship of brain and body sizes has been the subject of investigations for over a hundred years. These studies have demonstrated that variation in brain weights is much smaller than that in body weights; consequently, scaling studies are ones of negative allometry. Furthermore, the variability in brain weight is greater when comparisons are between species rather than among individuals of the same species, and the degree of variability in brain size differs among orders. The largest shifts in brain sizes relative to changes in body weights are found when comparing different ontogenetic stages. Debate continues as to the importance of metabolism in determining the interrelationship of brain-body weights for interpreting differences in relative brain size. Although past advances in the study of brain-body size associations have come by increasing the size of the data bases and by improved statistical analyses, the recent utilization of transgenic animals may provide new insights into the mechanism of this association.


Associations between chronic community noise exposure and blood pressure at rest and during acute noise and non-noise stressors among urban school children in India.
The present study builds on prior research that has examined the association between children's chronic exposure to community noise and resting blood pressure and blood pressure dysregulation during exposure to acute stressors. A novel contribution of the study is that it examines how chronic noise exposure relates to blood pressure responses during exposure to both noise and non-noise acute stressors. The acute noise stressor was recorded street noise and the non-noise stressor was mental arithmetic. The sample consisted of 189 3rd and 6th grade children (51.9% percent boys; 52.9% 3rd graders) from a noisy (n = 95) or relatively quiet (n = 94) public school in the city of Pune, India. There were no statistically significant differences between chronic noise levels and resting blood pressure levels. However, relative to quiet-school children, noisy-school children had significantly lower increases in blood pressure when exposed to either an acute noise or non-noise stressor. This finding suggests that chronic noise exposure may result in hypo-reactivity to a variety of stressors and not just habituation to noise stressors.


Administration of medication in the acute mental health ward: perspective of nurses and patients.
The administration of medication is an important therapeutic intervention. However, concerns have been raised about the management of this procedure in the acute area. Therefore, a survey was conducted with registered nurses (n = 24) and patients (n = 57) from three acute admission wards in an inner city hospital in the north west of England. Semistructured interviews were conducted immediately following medication administration and then analyzed using thematic analysis. Nurses' views were categorized into three themes: ward environment, communication, and sharing of information. Nurses reported that policies and procedures provided clear guidance, but that the task remained stressful and the role of other professionals affected the integrity of the procedure. Patients' views were categorized into four themes: effects and side-effects of medication, the process of administration, therapeutic relationships, and the sharing of information. Most patients were accepting of the administration of their medication, but called for improvements in information sharing and side-effect management. Information sharing is pivotal in establishing therapeutic relationships, but the time of administration might not be the most appropriate occasion for this.


Advanced age protects microvascular endothelium from aberrant Ca(2+) influx and cell death induced by hydrogen peroxide.
Calcium signalling in endothelial cells of resistance arteries is integral to blood flow regulation. Oxidative stress and endothelial dysfunction can prevail during advanced age and we questioned how calcium signalling may be affected. Intact endothelium was freshly isolated from superior epigastric arteries of Young (∼4 months) and Old (∼24 months) male C57BL/6 mice. Under resting conditions, with no difference in intracellular calcium levels, hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) availability was ∼1/3 greater in endothelium of Old mice while vascular catalase activity was reduced by nearly half. Compared to Old, imposing oxidative stress (200 μm H2 O2 ) for 20 min increased intracellular calcium to 4-fold greater levels in endothelium of Young in conjunction with twice the calcium influx. Prolonged (60 min) exposure to H2 O2 induced 7-fold greater cell death in endothelium of Young. Microvascular adaptation to advanced age may protect endothelial cells during elevated oxidative stress to preserve functional viability of the intima. Endothelial cell Ca(2+) signalling is integral to blood flow control in the resistance vasculature yet little is known of how its regulation may be affected by advancing age. We tested the hypothesis that advanced age protects microvascular endothelium by attenuating aberrant Ca(2+) signalling during oxidative stress. Intact endothelial tubes (width, ∼60 μm; length, ∼1000 μm) were isolated from superior epigastric arteries of Young (3-4 months) and Old (24-26 months) male C57BL/6 mice and loaded with Fura-2 dye to monitor [Ca(2+) ]i . At rest there was no difference in [Ca(2+) ]i between age groups. Compared to Young, the [Ca(2+) ]i response to maximal stimulation with acetylcholine (3 μm, 2 min) was ∼25% greater in Old, confirming signalling integrity with advanced age. Basal H2 O2 availability was ∼33% greater in Old while vascular catalase activity was reduced by half. Transient exposure to elevated H2 O2 (200 μm, 20 min) progressively increased [Ca(2+) ]i to ∼4-fold greater levels in endothelium of Young versus Old. With no difference between age groups at rest, Mn(2+) quench of Fura-2 fluorescence revealed 2-fold greater Ca(2+) influx in Young during elevated H2 O2 ; this effect was attenuated by ∼75% using ruthenium red (5 μm) as a broad-spectrum inhibitor of transient receptor potential channels. Prolonged exposure to H2 O2 (200 μm, 60 min) induced ∼7-fold greater cell death in endothelium of Young versus Old. Thus, microvascular endothelium can adapt to advanced age by reducing Ca(2+) influx during elevated oxidative stress. Protection from cell death during oxidative stress will sustain endothelial integrity during ageing.


Measurement of membrane rigidity on trapped unilamellar phospholipid vesicles by using differential confocal microscopy.
We use optical tweezers to trap a unilamellar phospholipid vesicle and measure the out-of-plane thermal fluctuations by using differential confocal microscopy. Bending moduli of the lipid membranes are calculated directly from the mean-square values of the fluctuation amplitudes. Owing to the refractive index contrast between the inner and outer solutions of the vesicle, optical tweezers trap the vesicle laterally and improve the reliability of the measured fluctuation amplitudes along the optical axis. Bending moduli of membranes in gel or fluid phases obtained by the combination of differential confocal microscopy and optical tweezers are close to those reported previously. We also obtain the bending modulus of sphingomyelin membranes in the gel phase, which was not reported previously.


[Helminth parasites of Hyla arborea (Linneaus, 1758) (tree frog) collected from Bursa, Edirne and Sakarya].
Twenty-seven tree frogs (Hyla arborea ) were collected from 3 different regions of Turkey from 1995-2000 in order to detect helminths . As a result of our survey, 1 Monogenea species and 2 Nematoda species were found. These are Polystoma skrjabini, Cosmocerca ornata and Oswaldocruzia filiformis. This is the second time Polystoma skrjabini has been recorded for this host, while this is the first time Cosmocerca ornata and Oswaldocruzia filiformis have been recorded for this host.


The CB₁ cannabinoid receptor signals striatal neuroprotection via a PI3K/Akt/mTORC1/BDNF pathway.
The CB1 cannabinoid receptor, the main molecular target of endocannabinoids and cannabis active components, is the most abundant G protein-coupled receptor in the mammalian brain. In particular, the CB1 receptor is highly expressed in the basal ganglia, mostly on terminals of medium-sized spiny neurons, where it plays a key neuromodulatory function. The CB1 receptor also confers neuroprotection in various experimental models of striatal damage. However, the assessment of the physiological relevance and therapeutic potential of the CB1 receptor in basal ganglia-related diseases is hampered, at least in part, by the lack of knowledge of the precise mechanism of CB1 receptor neuroprotective activity. Here, by using an array of pharmacological, genetic and pharmacogenetic (designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drug) approaches, we show that (1) CB1 receptor engagement protects striatal cells from excitotoxic death via the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 pathway, which, in turn, (2) induces brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression through the selective activation of BDNF gene promoter IV, an effect that is mediated by multiple transcription factors. To assess the possible functional impact of the CB1/BDNF axis in a neurodegenerative-disease context in vivo, we conducted experiments in the R6/2 mouse, a well-established model of Huntington's disease, in which the CB1 receptor and BDNF are known to be severely downregulated in the dorsolateral striatum. Adeno-associated viral vector-enforced re-expression of the CB1 receptor in the dorsolateral striatum of R6/2 mice allowed the re-expression of BDNF and the concerted rescue of the neuropathological deficits in these animals. Collectively, these findings unravel a molecular link between CB1 receptor activation and BDNF expression, and support the relevance of the CB1/BDNF axis in promoting striatal neuron survival.


Opposing effects of toll-like receptor (TLR3) signaling in tumors can be therapeutically uncoupled to optimize the anticancer efficacy of TLR3 ligands.
Many cancer cells express Toll-like receptors (TLR) that offer possible therapeutic targets. Polyadenylic-polyuridylic acid [poly(A:U)] is an agonist of the Toll-like receptor TLR3 that displays anticancer properties. In this study, we illustrate how the immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive effects of this agent can be uncoupled to therapeutic advantage. We took advantage of two TLR3-expressing tumor models that produced large amounts of CCL5 (a CCR5 ligand) and CXCL10 (a CXCR3 ligand) in response to type I IFN and poly(A:U), both in vitro and in vivo. Conventional chemotherapy or in vivo injection of poly(A:U), alone or in combination, failed to reduce tumor growth unless an immunochemotherapeutic regimen of vaccination against tumor antigens was included. CCL5 blockade improved the efficacy of immunochemotherapy, whereas CXCR3 blockade abolished its beneficial effects. These findings show how poly(A:U) can elicit production of a range of chemokines by tumor cells that reinforce immunostimulatory or immunosuppressive effects. Optimizing the anticancer effects of TLR3 agonists may require manipulating these chemokines or their receptors.


Human nerve stimulation thresholds and selectivity using a multi-contact nerve cuff electrode.
Testing of the recruitment properties and selective activation capabilities of a multi-contact spiral nerve cuff electrode was performed intraoperatively in 21 human subjects. The study was conducted in two phases. An exploratory phase with ten subjects gave a preliminary overview of the data and data collection process and a systematic phase with eleven subjects provided detailed recruitment properties. The mean stimulation threshold of 25 +/- 17 nC was not significantly different than previous studies in animal models but much lower than muscle electrodes. The selectivity, defined as the percent of total activation of the first muscle recruited before another muscle reached threshold, ranged from 27% to 97% with a mean of 55%. In each case, the muscle that was selectively activated was the first muscle to branch distal to the cuff location. This study serves as a preliminary evaluation of nerve cuff electrodes in humans prior to chronic implant in subjects with high tetraplegia.


Occupational and individual risk factors for dysphonia in teachers.
In recent decades several groups of researchers have been interested in describing and understanding vocal morbidity in teachers in order to explain the large number of teachers diagnosed with dysphonia and account for the absenteeism attributed to vocal disability. To determine the proportion of teachers who reported a diagnosis of dysphonia and measure associations between individual and contextual factors and the event of interest. Teachers were recruited from the city of Belo Horizonte and invited to complete a web-based institutional intranet questionnaire. In total, 649 teachers responded; 32% (CI 28.5-35.5) reported that they had received a physician diagnosis of dysphonia. This prevalence was significantly higher among female teachers (prevalence ratio (PR) 2.33; CI 1.41-3.85), and groups who reported limited technical resources and equipment (PR 1.56; CI 1.14-2.15), a diagnosis of gastritis (PR 1.59; CI 1.28-1.98), not being summoned for an annual physician examination (PR 0.47; CI 0.32-0.68), or absenteeism (PR 1.39; CI 1.06-1.81). The high prevalence of dysphonia in teachers was not associated with any individual variables, except for sex and comorbidity (diagnosis of gastritis). Limited technical resources and equipment were associated with dysphonia and suggests policy change is important in preventing dysphonia.


Is cooking food in iron pots an appropriate solution for the control of anaemia in developing countries? A randomised clinical trial in Benin.
To evaluate the effect of two types of iron pots on haemoglobin (Hb) and serum ferritin (SF) concentrations in young children (6-24 months), adolescent girls (11-15 years) and women of reproductive age (15-44 years), whose households were provided with iron pots for cooking food over a period of 6 months, compared with controls. We randomly assigned 161 households including 339 individuals from the three subgroups to cast iron pots, blue steel pots or oral iron supplements (control). In the control group, children received micronutrient Sprinkles, and adolescent girls and women received iron tablets daily for 6 months. We measured Hb, SF and C-reactive protein concentrations at baseline and 6 months, and compared groups using regression models. Anaemia prevalence (Hb < 110 g l(-1) in infants, Hb < 120 g l(-1) in girls or women) was 47% (cast iron group), 50% (blue steel group) and 50% (control) at baseline. At 6 months, there were no significant differences in Hb concentrations among groups; however, differences in SF concentrations were significant (P < 0.0001)--the control group had higher SF concentrations compared with the groups using iron pots. Also, differences in the prevalence of iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA; anaemia plus SF < 15 microg l(-1)) were almost significant between cast iron and control groups (P = 0.08), and blue steel and control groups (P = 0.05). There is no evidence that iron cooking pots are effective against IDA. Further research is warranted to determine whether the iron leached from the pots is bioavailable.


Discriminating gastric cancer and gastric ulcer using human plasma amino acid metabolic profile.
Patients with gastric ulcer (GU) have a significantly higher risk of developing gastric cancer (GC), especially within 2 years after diagnosis. The main way to improve the prognosis of GC is to predict the tumorigenesis and metastasis in the early stage. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the ability of human plasma amino acid metabolic profile for discriminating GC and GU. In this study, we first used liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry technique to characterize the plasma amino acid metabolism in GC and GU patients. Plasma samples were collected from 84 GC patients and 82 GU patients, and 22 amino acids were detected in each patient. Partial least squares-discriminant analysis model was performed to analyze the data of these amino acids. We observed seven differential amino acids between GC and GU. A regression analysis model was established using these seven amino acids. Finally, a panel of five differential amino acids, including glutamine, ornithine, histidine, arginine and tryptophan, was identified for discriminating GC and GU with good specificity and sensitivity. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to evaluate diagnostic ability of the regression model and area under the curve was 0.922. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the potential values of plasma amino acid metabolic profile and metabolomic analysis technique in assisting diagnosis of GC. More studies are needed to highlight the theoretical strengths of metabolomics to understand the potential metabolic mechanisms in GC. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 70(6):553-562, 2018.


Serous microcystic adenoma (glycogen rich cystadenoma) of the pancreas.
Serous microcystic adenoma (SMCA) is a rare pancreatic tumor with a striking predilection for elderly females and a rather unique morphology. Classically, the tumor is riddled with innumerable small cysts around a stellate scar. The quintessential histological features are closely placed small cysts lined by glycogen rich cuboidal epithelium. In view of its excellent prognostic outcome, this tumor needs to be accurately diagnosed. This report documents a case of SMCA occurring in a 60-year-old female.


Nanoscale-cavity enhancement of color conversion with colloidal quantum dots embedded in the surface nano-holes of a blue-emitting light-emitting diode.
Although the method of inserting colloidal quantum dots (QDs) into deep nano-holes fabricated on the top surface of a light-emitting diode (LED) has been widely used for producing effective Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) from the LED quantum wells (QWs) into the QDs to enhance the color conversion efficiency, an important mechanism for enhancing energy transfer in such an LED structure was overlooked. This mechanism, namely, the nanoscale-cavity effect, represents a near-field Purcell effect and plays a crucially important role in enhancing the color conversion efficiency. Here, we demonstrate the results of LED performance, time-resolved photoluminescence (TRPL), and numerical simulation to elucidate the nanoscale-cavity effect on color conversion by inserting a photoresist solution of red-emitting QDs into the nano-holes fabricated on a blue-emitting QW LED. Based on the TRPL study of the inserted QDs in a nano-hole structure fabricated on an un-doped GaN template of no QW, it is found that the emission efficiency of the inserted QDs is significantly increased due to the nanoscale-cavity effect. From the simulation study, it is confirmed that this effect can also increase the FRET efficiency, particularly for those radiating dipoles in the QWs oriented perpendicular to the sidewalls of the nano-holes. In the nanoscale-cavity effect, the enhanced near field distribution inside a nano-hole excited by a light emitter modifies its own radiation behavior through the Purcell effect such that its far-field emission becomes stronger.


A Bayesian hierarchical latent trait model for estimating rater bias and reliability in large-scale performance assessment.
We propose a novel approach to modelling rater effects in scoring-based assessment. The approach is based on a Bayesian hierarchical model and simulations from the posterior distribution. We apply it to large-scale essay assessment data over a period of 5 years. Empirical results suggest that the model provides a good fit for both the total scores and when applied to individual rubrics. We estimate the median impact of rater effects on the final grade to be ± 2 points on a 50 point scale, while 10% of essays would receive a score at least ± 5 different from their actual quality. Most of the impact is due to rater unreliability, not rater bias.


Dose-response relationship of single oral doses of guanabenz in hypertensive patients.
A single-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to determine the dose-response relationship of guanabenz, administered as single oral doses to patients with mild or moderate hypertension. Twelve hypertensive patients received ascending oral doses of 2, 4, 8, 16, 24, and 32 mg of guanabenz. Dose-response relationships were evaluated for the nine patients who received placebo and all six guanabenz doses. The greatest maximum response (40/24 mm Hg) was seen for the 16 mg guanabenz dose. Since eight of the nine patients had mild hypertension, they may have responded maximally to the lower guanabenz doses, precluding larger decreases with the 24 and 32 mg doses. The mean onset of satisfactory blood pressure reduction decreased from 4 to 2 h and the mean duration increased from 6 to 22 h as the oral dose was increased from 2 to 32 mg. In eight patients, the responses to 16 mg of guanabenz administered sublingually and orally were compared. The sublingual and oral routes produced similar mean (20/13 mm Hg) and maximum (33/24 mm Hg) blood pressure decreases as well as mean onset (2 h) and duration (16.5 h) of satisfactory response. Additional studies involving patients with more severe hypertension are needed to further characterize the dose-response relationship of oral guanabenz and to establish a dose-response relationship for sublingual guanabenz.


Highly Efficient Polydopamine-coated Poly(methyl methacrylate) Nanofiber Supported Platinum⁻nickel Bimetallic Catalyst for Formaldehyde Oxidation at Room Temperature.
We fabricated one fibrous-membrane type of flexible and lightweight supported catalyst via loading platinum-nickel nanoparticles (PtNi NPs) directly on the polydopamine-coated polymethylmethacrylate electrospun-fibers (PMMA@PDA). The polymer support with the PDA layer provided numerous active sites, leading to well-monodispersed and sized PtNi NPs on the nanofibers. Through the rational design of PtNi NPs, the resultant catalyst system exhibited 90% conversion for decomposing HCHO (10 ppm) at room temperature with only a low dosage (0.02 g), retaining the high activity for 100 hours. This superior catalytic performance stems from the formate oxidation, which was the key intermediate during HCHO decomposition, and was promoted by the existence of a sufficient Pt-OH-Ni interface in the PtNi NPs with an appropriate Pt/Ni ratio of 1:5. Such tailored Pt-based nanoparticles ideally work together with the polymer nanofibers as a support for catalytic reaction. Compared with classical catalysts, our system can handle a comparable efficiency with much lower air resistance and remarkably lower dosage. Furthermore, the membrane-like morphology provides easy handling and minimizes the leaching of catalyst nanoparticles.


Assessing the Crop-Water Status in Almond (Prunus dulcis Mill.) Trees via Thermal Imaging Camera Connected to Smartphone.
Different tools are being implemented in order to improve the water management in agricultural irrigated areas of semiarid environments. Thermography has been progressively introduced as a promising technique for irrigation scheduling and the assessing of crop-water status, especially when deficit irrigation is being implemented. However, an important limitation is related to the cost of the actual cameras, this being a severe limitation to its practical usage by farmers and technicians. This work evaluates the potential and the robustness of a thermal imaging camera that is connected to smartphone (Flir One) recently developed by Flir Systems Inc. as a first step to assess the crop water status. The trial was developed in mature almond (Prunus dulcis Mill.) trees that are subjected to different irrigation treatments. Thermal information obtained by the Flir One camera was deal with the thermal information obtained with a conventional Thermal Camera (Flir SC660) with a high resolution, and subsequently, confronted with other related plant physiological parameters (leaf water potential, Ψleaf, and stomatal conductance, gs). Thermal imaging camera connected to smartphone provided useful information in estimating the crop-water status in almond trees, being a potential promising tool to accelerate the monitoring process and thereby enhance water-stress management of almond orchards.


Effects of Antioxidant Vitamins, Curry Consumption, and Heavy Metal Levels on Metabolic Syndrome with Comorbidities: A Korean Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study.
The burden of metabolic syndrome (MetS) has increased worldwide, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and this phenomenon is related to environmental, dietary, and lifestyle risk factors. We aimed to determine the association between the levels of serum heavy metals, hs-CRP, vitamins, and curry intake and to predict risks of MetS based on marginal effects. A data set of 60,256 Koreans aged ≥ 15 years between 2009 and 2017 was used to obtain information on sociodemographic, lifestyle, family history characteristics, MetS, food intake survey, and serum heavy metals. Daily intake of vitamins was measured by a one-day 24 h recall, and curry consumption was calculated using a food frequency questionnaire. Serum heavy metal levels were quantified by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and using a mercury analyzer. We found that vitamin B1, B2, B3, C, and A intakes were significantly lower in subjects with than without MetS. In contrast, serum levels of Pb, Hg, Cd, vitamin A, E, and hs-CRP were significantly higher in subjects with MetS. The risk of MetS was significantly lower for high curry consumers than low curry consumers (adjusted odds ratio 0.85, 95%CI 0.74-0.98). The risks of MetS were reduced by 12% and 1%, when vitamin B1 and C intakes increased by one mg, respectively, but were increased by 14%, 3%, and 9%, when serum levels of Pb, Hg, and hs-CRP increased by one unit. These results show that the potential health benefits resulting from vitamin and curry intakes could protect the public against the dual burden of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Further studies are required to reduce risk factors associated with serum heavy metal levels and to determine whether interactions between vitamin and curry consumption influence the presence of MetS.


Binding of Europium(III) to a non-nucleosidic phenanthroline linker in DNA.
Eu(III) complexes of DNA containing a non-nucleosidic linker, a derivative of 1,10-phenanthroline-2,6-dicarboxamide (Q), are studied with the goal of forming novel lanthanide ion binding sites that are incorporated in the backbone of DNA. One oligonucleotide is short and unstructured (TTTQTTT (QT6)) and the other (5'-AGCTCGGTCAQCGAGAGTGCA-3' (SQ)) is studied both in single-stranded form and in the presence of a partially complementary DNA strand. Luminescence spectroscopy studies show that Eu(III) binds to SQ, QT6, AQB, or QB 1100-, 56-, 23-, or 27-fold more tightly, respectively, than to a simple 1,10-phenanthroline-2,6-dicarboxamide ligand (Q1). Direct excitation and phenanthroline sensitized luminescence spectroscopy supports binding of Eu(III) to the phenanthroline linker in QT6 and in double-stranded DNA formed from SQ and partially complementary sequences that place Q in a bulge-like position. Eu(III) hydration numbers range from 3 to 5 when bound to the phenanthroline moiety in modified DNA, consistent with binding to the tetradentate linker and, in some cases, coordination to other groups in the DNA. Thermal melting experiments show that Q in a bulge-like structure stabilizes double-stranded DNA and that Eu(III) binding does not markedly affect the stability of the duplex.


Necrolytic acral erythema in an adolescent.
In 1996 el Darouti and Abu el Ela described seven Egyptian patients with similar cutaneous lesions and proposed necrolytic acral erythema (NAE) as a distinct entity of the necrolytic erythema family. Since then, NAE has emerged as a cutaneous manifestation of hepatitis C virus infection and taken its place in the literature as a marker for systemic disease. NAE initially presents with burning, pruritic eruptions of circumscribed, erythematous papules with flaccid vesiculation on the acral surfaces universally affecting the dorsum of the feet. The presenting papules of acute NAE evolve over time into confluent, velvety, hyperkeratotic plaques with decreased central erythema but a characteristic dark erythematous rim and adherent scale. Although mostly misdiagnosed as psoriasis or inflammatory dermatitis, NAE can be definitively placed among the necrolytic erythema family as a distinct entity based on clinical and histopathologic characteristics. We report a case of necrolytic acral erythema in a 17-year-old followed by a review of the literature.


A welcome to the workshop on "professional promises: Hopes and gaps in access to oral health care".
Starting with the belief held by some of the workshop participants that access to basic oral health care is a natural human right and that the oral health care system in the United States must serve the common good, we conducted a meeting of ethicists, practicing dentists, dental hygienists, dental educators, and others to discuss ethical issues related to access to care. As one of the meeting organizers, the author discusses in these introductory remarks his background and personal perspectives on why the dental profession has a moral obligation to better address the access issue.


Corneal epithelial permeability to fluorescein in humans by a multi-drop method.
The permeability of the corneal epithelium to fluorescein Pdc is an indicator of the health of the ocular surface. It can be measured in a clinical setting by determining the accumulation of fluorescein in the stroma following administration of the dye on the ocular surface. Here we demonstrate a new multi-drop method for the measurement of Pdc by a spot fluorometer. Twenty-nine healthy participants were recruited for this study. First, a probe-drop of fluorescein (0.35%, 2 μL) was instilled on the conjunctiva. The clearance of the dye from the tears was immediately measured using the fluorometer. Following this, two loading drops (2%; 6 μL each) were administered 10 min apart. Fifteen minutes later, the ocular surface was washed and fluorescence from the stroma Fs was measured. Permeability was calculated using Pdc = (Q x Fs)/ (2 x AUC), where Q is the stromal thickness and AUC is the area under the fluorescence vs. time curve for the loading drops. After the probe drop, the tear fluorescence followed an exponential decay (elimination rate constant; kd = 0.41 ± 0.28 per min; 49 eyes of 29 subjects), but the increase in Fs was negligible. However, after the loading drops, the measured Fs was ~ 20-fold higher than the autofluorescence and could be recorded at a high signal to noise ratio (SNR > 40). The intra-subject variability of kd was insignificant. Since fluorescein undergoes concentration quenching at > 0.5%, the value of AUC for the loading drops was estimated by scaling the AUC of the probe drop. The calculated Pdc was 0.54 ± 0.54 nm/sec (n = 49). A Monte Carlo simulation of the model for the multi-drop protocol confirmed the robustness of the estimated Pdc. The new multi-drop method can be used in place of the single-drop approach. It can overcome a lack of sensitivity in fluorometers of high axial resolution. The Pdc estimated by the multi-drop method is ~ 11-fold higher than previously reported but closer to the value reported for other drugs with equivalent octanol/water partition coefficient.


Association between hysterectomy and depression: a longitudinal follow-up study using a national sample cohort.
This study investigated the influence of hysterectomy on depression using a national sample cohort from South Korea. We extracted data entered into the Korean Health Insurance data based form 2002 through 2013 and classified patients into a group of women who had undergone a hysterectomy (n = 9,971) and a 1:4 matched control group (n = 39,884). A Cox proportional hazards model was used to analyze the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to assess the risk of depression in the hysterectomy group and the control group. The HR was calculated as the risk of depression in the hysterectomy group compared to that in the control group. The incidence of depression in the hysterectomy group was 6.59 per 1,000 person-years and that in the control group was 5.70 per 1,000 person-years. The adjusted HR for depression was 1.15 in the hysterectomy group (95% CI = 1.03-1.29, P < 0.05). In a subgroup analysis, the adjusted HR for depression was 1.16 (95% CI; 1.03-1.31, P = 0.014) for patients who underwent hysterectomy without bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. In an additional subgroup analysis, the adjusted HR for depression after hysterectomy was 1.18 (95% CI; 1.04-1.35, P = 0.012) in the younger than 50-year-old group. The incidence of depression was higher in women who underwent hysterectomy than in the matched control group.


[Non-linear analysis of arterial pressure].
A macroscopic nonlinear mathematical model of simulation of the different mechanisms that participate at long, medium and short term in the arterial pressure regulation is described. In order to establish the availability and usefulness of this model two types of conditions were simulated. The first ones were compared to the results obtained in live experiments in dogs and the other ones were referred to the data from clinical research. This model makes possible both the qualitative and quantitative appreciation of the sequence of physiological events whenever a disturbance modifies the normal conditions in the control of the arterial pressure. This model is easy to handle in both clinical and experimental applications since it does not require the knowledge of computer handling for its operation.


Assessing the Efficacy of Alkylating Agent Regimens in the Treatment of Infantile Malignant Osteopetrosis: Cyclophosphamide, Busulfan, or Thiotepa.
Infantile malignant osteopetrosis is a debilitating disease that requires total bone marrow irradiation and transplant procedures for patients to survive. The major complication of this procedure is graft vs host disease (GVHD), followed by infections and end organ toxicity. Therefore, current research efforts into treatment mainly aim to reduce GVHD while limiting infections and organ toxicity. Different regimens of alkylating agents have been used to try to reduce GVHD. The most common regimen is cyclophosphamide (Cy) with busulfan (Bu), followed by Cy with Bu and thiotepa (Thio). This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy of different treatments by comparing mortality and morbidity causes and rates across groups. The mean one-year survival rate for the Cy, Bu, Thio regimen studies in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) unmatched group (45.01%) was statistically lower than the one-year survival rate for the studies using just a Cy, Bu regimen (70.8%) in the HLA unmatched studies (p<0.00142). The one-year survival in the studies which had HLA-matched donors was 80.56%, which is statistically higher (p<0.001) than the one-year survival in the HLA-unmatched studies (53.96%), indicating a benefit of finding HLA-matched donors. It seems that price and availability could be a factor in the widespread use of Cy.


Lymph-vascular space invasion (LVSI) as a strong and independent predictor for non-locoregional recurrences in endometrial cancer: a Danish Gynecological Cancer Group Study.
To evaluate the effect of lymph-vascular space invasion (LVSI) on location of recurrences in Danish patients with endometrial cancer. This national cohort study (2005-2012) included 4,380 radically operated patients (no visual tumor, all distant metastasis removed). LVSI status was recorded in 3,377 (77.1%). In stage I patients, 2.6% received adjuvant radiotherapy and 1.4% adjuvant chemotherapy. Adjusted Cox regression was used to compare actuarial recurrence rates. LVSI was present in 18.7% of 3,377 patients with known LVSI status. Of these, 7.6% stage I patients with LVSI experienced an isolated locoregional and 19.4% a non-locoregional recurrence. Compared to no LVSI, 5-year recurrence rate was higher (25.5% vs. 8.5%) in patients with LVSI and the frequency of distant recurrences was strikingly higher (stage I: 15.2% vs. 2.7%), the effect being similar across International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages and histological types. In intermediate-risk stage I patients with LVSI, 8.0% experienced an isolated locoregional recurrence compared to 20.1% with non-locoregional recurrence, giving these patients a seriously adverse risk of survival. A separate analysis in patients with recurrences demonstrated that those with LVSI had significantly more distant recurrences (55.4% vs. 29.9%) and fewer isolated vaginal recurrences (24.3% vs. 42.8%) than patients with no LVSI. LVSI is a strong independent risk factor for the development of non-locoregional recurrences even in intermediate-risk stage I endometrial cancer. The non-locoregional recurrence pattern suggests a future focus for optimization of postoperative treatment in these patients.


The human genome project: an historical perspective for social workers.
Having mapped the human genome, the Human Genome Project maintains that certain genes can be linked to specific diseases and certain forms of human behavior. This breakthrough, it is hoped, will lead to the effective treatment, even the elimination of serious, debilitating illnesses for all groups of people. However, because the project conjures up memories of eugenics, the project raises concerns about its potential for identifying and linking diseases and social conditions (e.g., criminal behavior) to certain groups. This article places the Human Genome Project in historical context in terms of its resemblance to the eugenics movement in America and a period in social work history when the profession embraced eugenics and was guided by the movement's premises in its response to poor people.


Beck Depression Inventory is a useful screening tool for major depressive disorder in Gilles de la Tourette syndrome.
This study determined the prevalence of and factors associated with comorbid major depressive disorder (MDD) in patients with Gilles de la Tourette syndrome (GTS). How a simple self-report instrument, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), correlates with clinical assessment of comorbid MDD in this population was assessed. In a continuous sample of 114 adult patients with GTS, assessed clinically using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-IV criteria, 26 (23%) patients met criteria for MDD; more severe tics as measured with the Yale Global Tic Severity Scale, conduct disorder in childhood or higher age at the time of assessment were associated with MDD. The BDI score had a high negative predictive value for diagnosis of MDD, but a low positive predictive value. Using the BDI as a screening tool for comorbid MDD in patients with GTS is suggested.


Polymer Complex Fiber: Property, Functionality, and Applications.
Polymer complex fibers (PCFs) are a novel kind of fiber material processed from polymer complexes that are assembled through noncovalent interactions. These can realize the synergy of functional components and miscibility on the molecular level. The dynamic character of noncovalent interactions endows PCFs with remarkable properties, such as reversibility, stimuli responsiveness, self-healing, and recyclability, enabling them to be applied in multidisciplinary fields. The objective of this article is to provide a review of recent progress in the field of PCFs. The classification based on chain interactions will be first introduced followed by highlights of the fabrication technologies and properties of PCFs. The effects of composition and preparation method on fiber properties are also discussed, with some emphasis on utilizing these for rational design. Finally, we carefully summarize recent advanced applications of PCFs in the fields of energy storage and sensors, water treatment, biomedical materials, artificial actuators, and biomimetic platforms. This review is expected to deepen the comprehension of PCF materials and open new avenues for developing PCFs with tailor-made properties for advanced application.


Cloning, expression, and functional analysis of rat liver cytosolic inorganic pyrophosphatase gene and characterization of its functional promoter.
Inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi) is formed in several metabolic processes and its hydrolysis by the ubiquitously expressed enzyme inorganic pyrophosphatase (iPPase) is essential for the reactions to proceed in the direction of biosynthesis. Recently, we have reported differential expression and activity of cytosolic iPPase in rat liver with aging. In this article we report the cloning of the coding region of rat liver cytosolic iPPase gene in a bacterial expression vector, its expression, purification, and functional analysis by in-gel enzyme assay. SDS-PAGE and Western blot analysis of this expressed protein revealed that its molecular weight (MW) is approximately 33 kDa, while in-gel assay showed that it is functionally active just as the liver cytosolic iPPase. We have determined the genomic organization of this gene by genome blast approach. We have also cloned and characterized its proximal approximate 1 kb functional promoter (-1009 to +82) by transient transfection and luciferase assay of different 5'-deleted iPPase promoter-luciferase constructs and also established its transcription start site by primer extension analysis, along with protein-DNA interaction studies for a few putative transcription factor binding sites.


Prospects of Polymeric Nanocomposite Membranes for Water Purification and Scalability and their Health and Environmental Impacts: A Review.
Water shortage is a major worldwide issue. Filtration using genuine polymeric membranes demonstrates excellent pollutant separation capabilities; however, polymeric membranes have restricted uses. Nanocomposite membranes, which are produced by integrating nanofillers into polymeric membrane matrices, may increase filtration. Carbon-based nanoparticles and metal/metal oxide nanoparticles have received the greatest attention. We evaluate the antifouling and permeability performance of nanocomposite membranes and their physical and chemical characteristics and compare nanocomposite membranes to bare membranes. Because of the antibacterial characteristics of nanoparticles and the decreased roughness of the membrane, nanocomposite membranes often have greater antifouling properties. They also have better permeability because of the increased porosity and narrower pore size distribution caused by nanofillers. The concentration of nanofillers affects membrane performance, and the appropriate concentration is determined by both the nanoparticles' characteristics and the membrane's composition. Higher nanofiller concentrations than the recommended value result in deficient performance owing to nanoparticle aggregation. Despite substantial studies into nanocomposite membrane manufacturing, most past efforts have been restricted to the laboratory scale, and the long-term membrane durability after nanofiller leakage has not been thoroughly examined.


Recurrent Migratory Transient Bone Marrow Edema of the Knees Associated with Low Vitamin D and Systemic Low Bone Mineral Density: A Case Report and Literature Review.
Transient bone marrow edema (TBME) is a self-limiting disease characterized by joint pain with localized bone marrow edema by MRI and has been reported in many case series and case reports. It is well known that joints of the lower extremity including hips, knees, ankles, and feet are the classical sites for TBME. Many theories have been proposed for the pathogenesis of TBME. Systemic osteopenia and vitamin D deficiency is one of the theories that have been suggested in the last few years. In this case report, we present a middle-aged male patient, who presented with 4 attacks of TBME in both knees between September 2016 and August 2017. The patient was found to have persistently low vitamin D and osteopenic T score in DXA scan of the lumbar spine and hips. Patients of TBME usually present with joint pain that is provoked by weight-bearing physical activity. The aim of this case report is to raise the awareness that TBME can be the initial presentation of systemic loss of bone mineral density.


Saudi Critical Care Society clinical practice guidelines on the prevention of venous thromboembolism in adults with trauma: reviewed for evidence-based integrity and endorsed by the Scandinavian Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine.
To develop evidence-based clinical practice guidelines on venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention in adults with trauma in inpatient settings. The Saudi Critical Care Society (SCCS) sponsored guidelines development and included 22 multidisciplinary panel members who completed conflict-of-interest forms. The panel developed and answered structured guidelines questions. For each question, the literature was searched for relevant studies. To summarize treatment effects, meta-analyses were conducted or updated. Quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach, then the evidence-to-decision (EtD) framework was used to generate recommendations. Recommendations covered the following prioritized domains: timing of pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis initiation in non-operative blunt solid organ injuries; isolated blunt traumatic brain injury (TBI); isolated blunt spine trauma or fracture and/or spinal cord injury (SCI); type and dose of pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis; mechanical VTE prophylaxis; routine duplex ultrasonography (US) surveillance; and inferior vena cava filters (IVCFs). The panel issued 12 clinical practice recommendations-one, a strong recommendation, 10 weak, and one with no recommendation due to insufficient evidence. The panel suggests starting early pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis for non-operative blunt solid organ injuries, isolated blunt TBIs, and SCIs. The panel suggests using low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) over unfractionated heparin (UFH) and suggests either intermediate-high dose LMWH or conventional dosing LMWH. For adults with trauma who are not pharmacologic candidates, the panel strongly recommends using mechanical VTE prophylaxis with intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC). The panel suggests using either combined VTE prophylaxis with mechanical and pharmacologic methods or pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis alone. Additionally, the panel suggests routine bilateral lower extremity US in adults with trauma with elevated risk of VTE who are ineligible for pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis and suggests against the routine placement of prophylactic IVCFs. Because of insufficient evidence, the panel did not issue any recommendation on the use of early pharmacologic VTE prophylaxis in adults with isolated blunt TBI requiring neurosurgical intervention. The SCCS guidelines for VTE prevention in adults with trauma were based on the best available evidence and identified areas for further research. The framework may facilitate adaptation of recommendations by national/international guideline policymakers.


Selective uptake of toxic nucleoside (125IUdR) by resistant cancer.
We report uptake of a thymidine analogue 125-Iodine-5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine (125IUdR) by nude mice bearing human xenografts of choriocarcinoma or colonic cancer. When 125IUdR was given alone, uptake by intestinal tissues was 5-10 times greater than by the tumours as measured by tissue gamma counting. This ratio was reversed when hydroxyurea or cytosine arabinoside were used as inhibitors of ribonucleotide reductase and were given in combination with 5-fluorouracil or methotrexate to inhibit thymidine synthesis shortly before injecting 125IUdR. Counting the radioactivity in tissues removed 24 hours after 125IUdR gave tumour to highest normal tissue ratios of up to 15:1, but the corresponding nuclear grain counts, which is probably a more reliable indicator of selective uptake into DNA, were in excess of 100:1. The addition of unlabelled IUdR to the regimen only reduced the uptake of 125IUdR when given in relatively large amounts. For this approach to be exploited it is concluded that the tumour must be resistant at the cell level to the inhibitor of DNA synthesis either de novo or as a result of prior exposure to it. This inhibitor can then be used to block uptake of the potentially toxic nucleoside analogue by normal renewal tissues while it is taken up by the resistant cancer cells. By inhibiting synthesis of the corresponding normal nucleosides with inhibitors to which the cancer cells are not resistant, incorporation of the toxic analogues into tumour DNA was enhanced. Although 125IUdR is a convenient agent for exploring this approach and is highly cytotoxic when incorporated in DNA, the clinical potential of reverse role chemotherapy probably lies with the development of toxic non-radioactive nucleoside analogues.


Using cancer proteomics data to identify gene candidates for therapeutic targeting.
Gene-level associations obtained from mass-spectrometry-based cancer proteomics datasets represent a resource for identifying gene candidates for functional studies. When recently surveying proteomic correlates of tumor grade across multiple cancer types, we identified specific protein kinases having a functional impact on uterine endometrial cancer cells. This previously published study provides just one template for utilizing public molecular datasets to discover potential novel therapeutic targets and approaches for cancer patients. Proteomic profiling data combined with corresponding multi-omics data on human tumors and cell lines can be analyzed in various ways to prioritize genes of interest for interrogating biology. Across hundreds of cancer cell lines, CRISPR loss of function and drug sensitivity scoring can be readily integrated with protein data to predict any gene's functional impact before bench experiments are carried out. Public data portals make cancer proteomics data more accessible to the research community. Drug discovery platforms can screen hundreds of millions of small molecule inhibitors for those that target a gene or pathway of interest. Here, we discuss some of the available public genomic and proteomic resources while considering approaches to how these could be leveraged for molecular biology insights or drug discovery. We also demonstrate the inhibitory effect of BAY1217389, a TTK inhibitor recently tested in a Phase I clinical trial for the treatment of solid tumors, on uterine cancer cell line viability.


Ultrasound findings following failed, clinically directed thoracenteses.
We prospectively examined 26 patients who were referred for ultrasound-guided thoracentesis, following at least one unsuccessful, clinically guided attempt. Sonographically guided thoracentesis was successful in obtaining fluid in 88% of patients. In addition, ultrasonography proved useful in suggesting or defining the cause for the initial unsuccessful attempt. Patients who have undergone an unsuccessful clinically guided thoracentesis and are referred for sonographic assistance represent a selected group who may have complicating factors not typically present during routine thoracentesis. Awareness of these potential complicating factors may facilitate the performance of ultrasound-guided thoracenteses.


Reversibility and persistence of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP)- and phenobarbital-induced hepatocellular changes in rodents.
The tumor promotion stage of chemical carcinogenesis has been shown to exhibit a persistence of cellular effects during treatment and the reversibility of these changes upon cessation of treatment. Inhibition of gap-junctional intercellular communication and increased replicative DNA synthesis appear to be important in this process. The present study assessed the persistence and reversibility of gap-junctional intercellular communication inhibition, peroxisomal proliferation, and replicative DNA synthesis in livers from male F344 rats and B6C3F1 mice. Dietary administration of 20,000 mg/kg DEHP to male rats for 2 weeks decreased intercellular communication (67% of control) and enhanced replicative DNA synthesis (4.8-fold over control). Elevation of the relative liver weight and the induction of peroxisomal beta oxidation were also observed following treatment with 20,000 mg/Kg DEHP for 2 weeks. Following DEHP administration at a dose of 6000 mg/kg for 18 months, inhibition of gap-junctional intercellular communication persisted, and the relative liver weight and induction of peroxisomal beta oxidation remained elevated in both rats and male B6C3F1 mice. Treatment of rats and mice with phenobarbital for 18 months (500-mg/kg diet) also produced an increase in relative liver weight and a decrease in cell-to-cell communication. In recovery studies in which DEHP was administered to male F344 rats for 2 weeks and then withdrawn, the relative liver weight, rate of peroxisomal beta oxidation, increase in replicative DNA synthesis, and inhibition of gap-junctional intercellular communication returned to control values within 2 to 4 weeks after DEHP treatment ceased. Recovery studies with phenobarbital produced similar results. The primary active metabolite of DEHP, mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), was detected in the livers of animals treated with DEHP for greater than 2 weeks. However, it could not be detected after removal of DEHP from the diet for 2 weeks. This study demonstrated that inhibition of gap-junctional intercellular communication, along with indicators of peroxisomal proliferation, including increased relative liver weight and enhanced peroxisomal beta oxidation, persist while DEHP treatment continues but reverses when treatment is stopped. Studies with phenobarbital produced a similar pattern of response.


Orthodontic treatment protocols in patients with alveolar clefting: a survey of ACPA-approved cleft teams in the United States.
To describe pre- and post-alveolar bone graft (ABG) practice protocols of orthodontists associated with American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association-approved cleft and cleft/craniofacial teams. Electronic survey responses from team orthodontists were evaluated regarding pre-ABG orthodontic treatment type(s), timing of post-ABG imaging and post-ABG orthodontic treatment, and craniofacial orthodontic fellowship training status of the team orthodontists. A P value of <.05 was considered significant. Of 31 responding orthodontists, 54.8% had fellowship training and 45.2% did not. Pre-ABG orthodontic preparation ranged from solely maxillary expansion for alveolar segment alignment (35.5%) to a combination of maxillary expansion for both alveolar segment alignment and posterior crossbite correction, anterior tooth alignment, and anterior crossbite correction (19.4%). Most captured post-ABG radiographs prior to orthodontic tooth movement (90.3%). Orthodontists began treatment at least 6 months (35.5%), 2-4 months (32.3%), or 4-6 months (29%) post-ABG. No significant differences were found when comparing fellowship subgroups. In addition, 47.1% of fellowship-trained orthodontists deferred post-ABG orthodontic treatment to at least 6 months post-operatively, vs 21.4% of non-fellowship trained orthodontists (P = .14). A large variation in approaches is evident in pre-ABG orthodontic treatment types and timing of post-ABG treatment. Post-operative imaging is pursued by most orthodontists to assess graft status prior to initiating orthodontic treatment. Additional clinical research is needed to support providers in their decision-making with regard to evidence-based approaches.


Interactive involvement of hippocampal cAMP/PKA and cyclooxygenase-2 signaling pathways in spatial learning in the Morris water maze.
Accumulated evidence shows that the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway plays a key role in memory functions. Cyclooxygenase-2, a critical player in neuroinflammation, has been confirmed in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. This study is aimed to assess the effect of the interaction of cAMP-PKA and cyclooxygenase pathways on spatial memory acquisition in animal models. In the present study, the effects of the four-day bilateral intra-hippocampal infusions of H-89 as a protein kinase AII inhibitor (10 µM/side), celecoxib (0.1 M/side) as a selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor, cele-coxib/H-89 and bucladesine (10 µM/side)/celecoxib/H-89 on spatial memory acquisition in the Morris water maze were investigated. Control animals received bilateral intra-hippocampal infusions of dimethyl sulfoxide. Rats were trained for 4 days; each day included one block of four trials. Post-training probe trial tests were performed on day five. A bilateral intra-hippocampal infusion of H-89 and celecoxib led to a significant impairment in spatial learning compared to the controls through a notable decrease in escape latency and traveled distance. But, combination treatment of animals with celecoxib/H-89 and bucladesine/celecoxib/H-89 could considerably reverse celecoxib and H-89-induced spatial memory acquisition impairments in the Morris water maze. These results indicate the probable regulatory effects of cAMP/PKA and cyclooxygenase-2 signaling pathways on spatial memory acquisition in the Morris water maze.


Sweet's syndrome with lung involvement.
Severe dyspnea and pulmonary infiltrates were associated with recurrent episodes of Sweet's syndrome (acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis) in a 54-yr-old woman with myelodysplasia. Lung and skin biopsies revealed a sterile infiltration of the interstitial tissues by mature neutrophils. Corticosteroid therapy resulted in rapid clinical improvement; however, recurrent episodes were increasingly resistant to therapy, and she ultimately died from respiratory failure. Sweet's syndrome involving the lung is rare, with only two previously reported cases documented by lung biopsy. Prompt recognition of Sweet's syndrome with lung involvement is important because of the potential for severe respiratory compromise.


Impact of renal dysfunction on 1-year mortality after acute myocardial infarction.
Survival after acute myocardial infarction (MI) is linked to multiple factors, including mild or severe chronic kidney dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine to what extent a reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) influences 1-year mortality when risk level at admission and quality of care are taken into account. A prospective registry was carried out in a geographically delimited area, including all patients admitted with a diagnosis of acute MI over a 6-month period. The GFR was calculated from serum creatinine levels, and patients were stratified into 3 groups: GFR1 >59 mL/min per 1.73 m2, GFR2 >29 and <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2, and GFR3 <30 mL/min per 1.73 m2. A risk index based on initial presentation was calculated. Inhospital and discharge treatments were recorded, taking into account possible contraindications. Patients were followed up for 1 year to assess all-cause mortality rate. A total of 754 patients were included, 333 ST-elevation MI and 421 non-ST-elevation MI. Overall 1-year mortality was 11.5%. Patients with impaired GFR were older, with more comorbidities, and received fewer effective therapies (less reperfusion, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa receptor inhibitors, early angiography, beta-blockers, and statins). One-year mortality increased as GFR decreased: GFR1 2.3% (5/215), GFR2 9.4% (31/328), and GFR3 24.2% (51/211) (P < .001 for trend). By multivariable logistic regression, a significant association was found between 1-year mortality and risk index (odds ratio [OR] 1.41, 95% CI 1.16-1.71 per 10% increase in risk index), GFR (OR 0.97, 95% CI 0.95-0.98 per additional GFR unit), use of beta-blockers (OR 0.15, 95% CI 0.05-0.50 for users), and early coronary angiography (OR 0.26, 95% CI 0.32-0.66 for patients submitted to angiography). In patients with acute MI, decreased GFR is associated with higher mortality, and this relation remains strong after adjustment for the level of risk at admission and the effective treatments used.


Iodine-mediated cascade cyclization of enediynes to iodinated benzo[a]carbazoles.
Treatment of N,N-dimethyl 2-[2-(2-ethynylphenyl)ethynyl]anilines (1) with 1.2 equiv of iodine in CH(2)Cl(2) gave benzo[a]carbazoles (2) in good yields. Mechanistic studies showed this reaction must go through the haloindole (3) followed by iodonium ion catalyzed atom-transfer cyclization reaction to give the benzo[a]carbazoles.


Conservation of epithelial cell phenotypes during hematogenous metastasis from mammary carcinomas.
The phenotypic heterogeneity of epithelial cells during hematogenous metastasis from primary mammary carcinomas of BALB/cfC3H mice was examined. Antisera to keratins were used in immunofluorescence assays to identify epithelial and myoepithelial cells. Both cell types were located in frozen sections of not only the primary lesions but also pulmonary metastases. Tumor cells disseminating to the lungs were recovered from the bloodstream of tumor-bearing mice with the use of a quantitative density gradient centrifugation procedure. Carcinoma cells were detected in the circulation of 62% of mice at the time of assay, but all tumors examined had released cells into the circulation at some point in their history. Epithelial cells and myoepithelial cells were detected simultaneously in 21% of mice, whereas other mice had only epithelial cells (16%) or myoepithelial cells (25%) in their circulation at the time of assay. Single cells and multicellular emboli of each cell type were disseminated, together with similar numbers of heterogeneous emboli containing both epithelial and myoepithelial cells. The evidence shows that the presence of both mammary epithelial and myoepithelial cells in pulmonary metastases from mouse mammary carcinomas can be accounted for by their hematogenous delivery as differentiated cells.


An In Vitro Model of the Blood-Brain Barrier: Naegleria fowleri Affects the Tight Junction Proteins and Activates the Microvascular Endothelial Cells.
Naegleria fowleri causes a fatal disease known as primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. This condition is characterized by an acute inflammation that originates from the free passage of peripheral blood cells to the central nervous system through the alteration of the blood-brain barrier. In this work, we established models of the infection in rats and in a primary culture of endothelial cells from rat brains with the aim of evaluating the activation and the alterations of these cells by N. fowleri. We proved that the rat develops the infection similar to the mouse model. We also found that amoebic cysteine proteases produced by the trophozoites and the conditioned medium induced cytopathic effect in the endothelial cells. In addition, N. fowleri can decrease the transendothelial electrical resistance by triggering the destabilization of the tight junction proteins claudin-5, occludin, and ZO-1 in a time-dependent manner. Furthermore, N. fowleri induced the expression of VCAM-1 and ICAM-1 and the production of IL-8, IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 as well as nitric oxide. We conclude that N. fowleri damaged the blood-brain barrier model by disrupting the intercellular junctions and induced the presence of inflammatory mediators by allowing the access of inflammatory cells to the olfactory bulbs.


TLR2 ligands attenuate cardiac dysfunction in polymicrobial sepsis via a phosphoinositide 3-kinase-dependent mechanism.
Myocardial dysfunction is a major consequence of septic shock and contributes to the high mortality of sepsis. In the present study, we examined the effect of Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) ligands, peptidoglycan (PGN), and Pam3CSK4 (Pam3) on cardiac function in cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis in mice. We also investigated whether the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway is involved in the effect of TLR2 ligands on cardiac function in CLP mice. PGN was administered to C57B6/L mice 1 h before the induction of CLP. Sham surgically operated mice served as a control. Cardiac function indexes (rate of change in left ventricular pressure, stroke work, cardiac output, and ejection fraction) were examined by a microconductance pressure catheter. Cardiac function was significantly decreased 6 h after CLP-induced sepsis compared with sham-operated control. In contrast, PGN administration attenuated CLP-induced cardiac dysfunction. Importantly, the therapeutic treatment with Pam3 1 h after CLP also significantly attenuated cardiac dysfunction in CLP mice. However, the beneficial effect of TLR2 ligands on cardiac dysfunction in CLP-mice was abolished in TLR2-deficient mice. PGN administration significantly increased the levels of phospho-Akt and phospho-GSK-3beta in the myocardium compared with the levels in untreated CLP mice. PI3K inhibition abolished the PGN-induced attenuation of cardiac dysfunction in CLP mice. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that the administration of TLR2 ligands, PGN, or Pam3 attenuates cardiac dysfunction in septic mice via a TLR2/PI3K-dependent mechanism. More significantly, Pam3 therapeutic treatment will have a potential clinical relevance.


[Utilization of a microvascular synthetic prosthesis in microvascular surgery].
Both in replantation surgery and free vascular pedicled tissue transfer a vascular interposition graft is sometimes necessary. As an alternative to the vein a microvascular prosthesis for interposition is introduced. In rats the abdominal aorta was partly resected and the defect bridged by interposition of such a microvascular prosthesis. The technique of interposition and the results are shown.


Assaults by Scalding in British Prisons.
We describe the trends and severity of deliberate scald injuries from assaults within prisons presenting to Pinderfields Hospital in the United Kingdom. Data were obtained using local records of the International Burn Injury Database. Between 2003 and 2019, the hospital's Department of Plastic Surgery and Burns treated 22 cases from at least seven prisons, with 20 cases occurring in the last 4 years. Boiling water was used in most cases. Other substances included syrups of boiling water and sugar, and hot fat. Mean total body surface area was 2.8%, most commonly the face, neck, shoulders, and anterior chest. National data identified 267 cases with a similar rising trend. These injuries increase logistical and financial burdens on our burns service due to the need for added security and police escorts during treatment. "Copycat attacks" within same prisons, sometime on the same day, raise concerns that incidence of these injuries is likely to increase. Outreach nursing and telemedicine facilities may minimize the challenges during the management period.


Activation and blocking effects of divalent cations on the calcium-dependent potassium channel of high conductance.
Using the patch-clamp technique the action of internal barium- and magnesium-ions on the calcium-dependent potassium channel in the membrane of vascular smooth muscle cells from the media layer of the human aorta was studied. Under symmetrical potassium conditions in excised inside-out patches bathed in the standard solution containing EGTA, the addition of barium as well as magnesium led to a concentration-dependent shift of the activation-curves to negative values of the membrane potential compared with the control, a block of single channel activity by barium, whereas no inhibitory effects by magnesium were registered. Thus, these results suggest that the process of channel activation of the calcium-dependent potassium channel of high conductance depends not merely on calcium but also on other divalent earthalkali ions.


[Spontaneous infection of marmoset-monkeys (Sanguinus oedipus) with a Trypanosoma cruzi-like-strain, Springer 1975. Isolation and identification (author's transl)].
A Trypanosoma cruzi-like strain was isolated from marmoset monkeys originating from Columbia. The frequency of affected monkeys was up to 32.7%. The parasite density was 10-40 trypomastigote forms per mililiter. Monkeys, rats, mice and other small Rodentia were found to be susceptible. Clinical symptoms or histopathological findings could not be acertained with these trypanosomes even after a 2 1/2 year observation period. The strain behaved as an apathogen in experimental animals. The parasitaemia in animals was sparse (1-10 trypanosomes/ml) and without any conspicuous periodic fluctuations. Trypanosomes could be detected microscopically up to 2 1/2 years after infection in the blood of infected animals. With a positive blood finding, the blood passage could be carried out in animals with regularity. The serum from infected reacted positively in Chagas Latex test as well as in Chagas CFT. The trypomastigote forms injected into cultures of human embryonal thyroid gland and in cells of other origin, showed higher or lower multiplication with a marked cytopathogenic effect between the 9th and 11th day post infection, depending on the type of tissue culture. There was a cyclical development in Rhodnius prolixus or Triatoma infestans. The so-called metacyclic or trypomastigote forms from the faeces of Reduviidae or from tissue culture could again infect animals.


Two new species of the genus Anisoderomorpha Arrow, 1925 (Coleoptera: Erotylidae: Languriinae).
The genus Anisoderomorpha Arrow, 1925 (Coleoptera: Erotylidae: Languriinae) is redescribed and two new species of Anisoderomorpha are described: A. tamdaoensis sp. nov. from Vietnam and A. malayana sp. nov. from Malaysia. The adults of A. tamdaoensis sp. nov. were found to be sexually dimorphic in external morphology, particularly in the shape of the head and mandibles: females have a large asymmetrical head and mandibles, whereas males have a symmetrical head with slightly asymmetrical mandibles. All three members of Anisoderomorpha and its related taxon, Celolanguria curvipes Arrow, 1925, are illustrated and the host plant of Anisoderomorpha is predicted based on the morphological similarity of the specified mouthparts to those of other genera.


Patch testing with oxidized R-(+)-limonene and its hydroperoxide fraction.
R-(+)-Limonene is an ubiquitous allergen in our environment. It is one of the most widely used fragrance materials not only in fine fragrances but also most often incorporated in domestic and occupational products. Although the non-oxidized R-(+)-limonene itself is not allergenic, it easily forms allergenic products due to autoxidation during handling and storage. 2273 patients at 4 dermatological clinics in Europe were patch tested between 1997 and 1999 in 2 steps. First, the oxidation mixture of R-(+)-limonene and 1 selected allergen fraction of the mixture, the limonene hydroperoxides, were tested in 2 different vehicles in consecutive patients. A diverging frequency of positive patch test reactions was observed in the 4 clinics. 3.8% of the consecutive patients tested reacted to oxidized R-(+)-limonene in 2 clinics, 6.5% in the 3rd, whereas 0.3% in the 4th clinic. In 2 of the centres, different but significant concomitant positive response rates to other allergens were observed; e.g. to fragrance materials and to colophonium. However, in the total test population, 57% of the limonene-allergic subjects did not react to any of the fragrance allergy markers used in the standard series. In the 2nd step, patients showing positive reactions were retested, also including additional separate allergens of the limonene oxidation mixture (carvone and limonene oxide). 60% of the limonene-allergic patients showed positive results at retesting. The limonene hydroperoxide fraction was proved to be the most important allergen of the oxidation mixture, showing positive reactions in around 60% of the limonene-allergic patients at both test sessions. Testing limonene oxide and carvone separately resulted in very few positive reactions. 3% oxidized R-(+)-limonene in non-stabilized petrolatum is most suitable when using only 1 test preparation for diagnosis of contact allergy to oxidized limonene. Our data give clinical support to the European classification of R-(+)-limonene, containing oxidation products, as a skin sensitizer.


Impaired gist memory in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy and hippocampal sclerosis.
Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most common focal epilepsy and frequently causes memory problems. It is often associated with hippocampal sclerosis (HS) and is useful in exploring memory functions. We aimed to examine the effect of restricted hippocampal lesions on gist memory function in patients with TLE. Forty-five patients with TLE and HS (16 left, 15 right, and 14 bilateral lesions) and 22 control subjects were recruited. Patients with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or electroencephalography (EEG) evidence of extratemporal lesions were excluded. All participants performed a gist-based recognition task following the Deese-Roediger-McDermott paradigm and were tested for verbal IQ and memory functions. We conducted hippocampal volumetry on MRI of all the participants. Patients showed multidomain memory impairments. Gist memory was impaired in patients with bilateral HS and probably in patients with right HS. Hippocampal volumetry supported such findings that total volume of hippocampi and volume of right hippocampus correlated positively with gist memory function. HS has a dose effect and a probable right dominance effect on gist memory; good item memory supports gist memory performance; and a disproportionate deficit was noted in tasks with high relational demand but not in tasks with simple association. We should develop memory skills for patients with TLE by enhancing performance of gist memory related to simple association task.


Schistosomiasis control: an estimation of costs.
Costs are estimated for different types of schistosomiasis control programmes. From the point of view of feasibility and financing, schistosomiasis has been classified into four levels, representing different rates of prevalence, intensity of infection and the rate of reinfection. The different possibilities of approach and their financial aspects are discussed. Costs are estimated for a period of five years. Costs for sanitation and snail control programmes are not included, as they may vary greatly according to local conditions and circumstances and valid generalizations cannot be made.


Image-guided surgery for thoracic ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament. Technical note.
The authors describe an anterior decompression procedure for thoracic ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (PLL) in which they used an image guidance system in three cases. To make registration possible in anterior thoracic surgery, they devised a surgical reference frame that could be connected to a rod and attached to an external fixation device, which was then attached to the thoracic VB. The mean fiducial error at the registration was acceptable (range 0.5-0.8 mm). They were able to confirm the success of decompression on postoperative computerized tomography scans. In the removal of an ossified thoracic PLL, an image guidance system has been shown to be a useful tool.


Behavior Disorders: knowledge and actions of health professionals and social work.
to identify the knowledge of professionals of mental health services and social work on Behavior Disorders (BD) in childhood and adolescence, and to analyze their actions in care for children and adolescents with such disorders. a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory study with 13 professionals from two mental health services and two tutorial councils. The data were collected in interviews and submitted to thematic content analysis. three categories emerged from the interviews: "Knowledge about behavior disorders", which defines BD as deviations from normality and lack of limits. "Integrated and group care", which explains the integrated, multidisciplinary and group actions. "Specialized and legal care", which explains the actions through specialized, medical and judicial care. the results point out weaknesses and knowledge gaps of professionals, causing potential harm in the programming of effective actions, such as identification, referral and therapeutic planning.


Acetylcholine inhibition in rabbit sinoatrial node is prevented by pertussis toxin.
The effects of acetylcholine (ACh) were examined on the naturally occurring slow action potentials (APs) of the isolated, organ-cultured, spontaneously beating sinoatrial (SA) node of the rabbit, in the presence or absence of pertussis toxin. The sensitivity of the SA-node preparations to ACh was not altered after 24 h incubation in organ culture medium. Activation of the muscarinic receptor hyperpolarized the cells and reduced the frequency of spontaneous activity at low concentrations (1 X 10(-6) and 3 X 10(-6) M), and completely abolished automaticity at higher concentrations (1 X 10(-5) M). However, stimulated activity was maintained. Increased concentrations (1 X 10(-4) M) of ACh completely abolished excitability. When the SA-node preparations were cultured in the presence of 0.5 micrograms/mL pertussis toxin, concentrations of ACh as high as 1 X 10(-4) M had no effect on the AP parameters and frequency of spontaneous activity. The results indicate that inactivation of G proteins by pertussis toxin caused inhibition of the ACh effects on the automaticity of the SA node. In addition, the blocking effect of ACh to the naturally occurring slow APs was also inhibited by pertussis toxin. We conclude that in the rabbit SA node, the effects of ACh on automaticity and on the slow channels are mediated by G protein.


The value of live/real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in the assessment of valvular vegetations.
We studied 13 patients with valvular vegetations who underwent intraoperative live/real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE) and real time two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2DTEE). The 3DTEE provided incremental value on top of 2DTEE in its ability to accurately identify and localize vegetations and in identifying complications of infective endocarditis such as abscesses, perforations, and ruptured chordae. By using 3DTEE, we were able to measure vegetation volumes, perforation areas, and estimate the area of the valve that is involved in the infective process. These preliminary results suggest the superiority of 3DTEE over 2DTEE in the evaluation of valvular vegetations and provide incremental knowledge that is useful to the cardiac surgeons.


The Stimulation of Macrophages by Systematical Administration of GM-CSF Can Accelerate Adult Wound Healing Process.
Skin wound repair remains a major challenge in clinical care, and various strategies have been employed to improve the repair process. Recently, it has been reported that macrophages are important for the regeneration of various tissues and organs. However, their influence on wound repair is unclear. Here, we aimed to explore whether macrophages would participate in the wound healing process and to explore new possibilities of treatment for skin defects. We firstly created a mouse full-thickness skin defect model to observe the distribution of macrophages in the regenerating tissue and then detected the influence of macrophages on skin defect repair in both macrophage-depletion and macrophage-mobilization models. We found that the number of macrophages increased significantly after skin defect and persisted during the process of wound repair. The regeneration process was significantly prolonged in macrophage-depleted animals. RT-qPCR and ELISA assays further demonstrated that the expression of growth factors was perturbed in the regenerating tissue. The activation of macrophages by granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) injection could significantly improve wound healing, accompanied with an upregulation of the expression of various growth factors. In conclusion, the current study demonstrated that macrophages are critical for skin regeneration and that GM-CSF exhibited therapeutic potential for wound healing.