Alcohol screening for older adults in an acute general hospital: FAST v. MAST-G assessments.
Aims and method Documented prevalence of alcohol misuse among older adult patients at Birmingham Heartlands Hospital is significantly lower than the national prevalence. We aimed to evaluate our alcohol misuse screening protocol for older adults to identify possible shortcomings. Hospital protocol is to screen all adults for alcohol misuse in the accident and emergency (A&E) department using the Fast Alcohol Screening Test (FAST). One hundred consecutive consenting in-patients aged 65-94 admitted via A&E subsequently undertook an additional alcohol screening test (Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test-Geriatric version; MAST-G). Results of the two tests were compared. Results FAST screening was completed for 71 patients and none were FAST-positive for alcohol misuse, yet using MAST-G, 18 patients scored positively for alcohol misuse. FAST screening failed to identify 8 patients with a documented history of alcohol misuse. Clinical implications Older adult alcohol misuse prevalence is significantly underreported using FAST. Screening older adults for alcohol problems requires a different approach to screening the general population.


Autotrophic denitrification via nitrate as an effective approach for removal of dissolved sulfide in anaerobic reactors.
This work assessed the effect of adding different concentrations of nitrate (50-300 mg NO3 -·L-1) on the removal of dissolved and gaseous sulfide in an anaerobic reactor treating synthetic effluent containing sulfate (100 mg SO4 2-·L-1) and organic matter (1 g COD·L-1). Autotrophic denitrification, stimulated by the addition of nitrate, was demonstrated to be a very effective approach for removal of dissolved sulfide even in the presence of a high concentration of organic matter (complete removal with 50 mg NO3 - mg·L-1). However, it had a minor effect on H2S(g). Sulfide remained partially oxidized to elemental sulfur even with excess nitrate (100-300 mg NO3 - mg·L-1). Therefore, the competition for this electron acceptor between the autotrophic and heterotrophic denitrification pathways may have prevented the conversion of the generated sulfide into sulfate again. No evidence of inhibition of methanogenesis and sulfidogenesis was found during nitrate supplementation.


Effects of contact network structure on epidemic transmission trees: implications for data required to estimate network structure.
Understanding the dynamics of disease spread is key to developing effective interventions to control or prevent an epidemic. The structure of the network of contacts over which the disease spreads has been shown to have a strong influence on the outcome of the epidemic, but an open question remains as to whether it is possible to estimate contact network features from data collected in an epidemic. The approach taken in this paper is to examine the distributions of epidemic outcomes arising from epidemics on networks with particular structural features to assess whether that structure could be measured from epidemic data and what other constraints might be needed to make the problem identifiable. To this end, we vary the network size, mean degree, and transmissibility of the pathogen, as well as the network feature of interest: clustering, degree assortativity, or attribute-based preferential mixing. We record several standard measures of the size and spread of the epidemic, as well as measures that describe the shape of the transmission tree in order to ascertain whether there are detectable signals in the final data from the outbreak. The results suggest that there is potential to estimate contact network features from transmission trees or pure epidemic data, particularly for diseases with high transmissibility or for which the relevant contact network is of low mean degree. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.


Direct quantification of ecological drift at the population level in synthetic bacterial communities.
In community ecology, drift refers to random births and deaths in a population. In microbial ecology, drift is estimated indirectly via community snapshots but in this way, it is almost impossible to distinguish the effect of drift from the effect of other ecological processes. Controlled experiments where drift is quantified in isolation from other processes are still missing. Here we isolate and quantify drift in a series of controlled experiments on simplified and tractable bacterial communities. We detect drift arising randomly in the populations within the communities and resulting in a 1.4-2% increase in their growth rate variability on average. We further use our experimental findings to simulate complex microbial communities under various conditions of selection and dispersal. We find that the importance of drift increases under high selection and low dispersal, where it can lead to ~5% of species loss and to ~15% increase in β-diversity. The species extinct by drift are mainly rare, but they become increasingly less rare when selection increases, and dispersal decreases. Our results provide quantitative insights regarding the properties of drift in bacterial communities and suggest that it accounts for a consistent fraction of the observed stochasticity in natural surveys.


Phylogeny and chemistry of biological mineral transport.
Three physiologically mineralizing tissues - teeth, cartilage and bone - have critical common elements and important evolutionary relationships. Phylogenetically the most ancient densely mineralized tissue is teeth. In jawless fishes without skeletons, tooth formation included epithelial transport of phosphates, a process echoed later in bone physiology. Cartilage and mineralized cartilage are skeletal elements separate from bone, but with metabolic features common to bone. Cartilage mineralization is coordinated with high expression of tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase and PHOSPHO1 to harvest available phosphate esters and support mineralization of collagen secreted locally. Mineralization in true bone results from stochastic nucleation of hydroxyapatite crystals within the cross-linked collagen fibrils. Mineral accumulation in dense collagen is, at least in major part, mediated by amorphous aggregates - often called Posner clusters - of calcium and phosphate that are small enough to diffuse into collagen fibrils. Mineral accumulation in membrane vesicles is widely suggested, but does not correlate with a definitive stage of mineralization. Conversely mineral deposition at non-physiologic sites where calcium and phosphate are adequate has been shown to be regulated in large part by pyrophosphate. All of these elements are present in vertebrate bone metabolism. A key biological element of bone formation is an epithelial-like cellular organization which allows control of phosphate, calcium and pH during mineralization.


Should moxifloxacin be used for the treatment of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis? An answer from a murine model.
The prevalence of extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB), defined as TB that is resistant to isoniazid, rifampin, fluoroquinolones, and aminoglycosides, is rising worldwide. The extent of Mycobacterium tuberculosis resistance to fluoroquinolones depends on the mutation in the DNA gyrase, the only target of fluoroquinolones. The MIC of moxifloxacin, the most active fluoroquinolone against M. tuberculosis, may be lower than its peak serum level for some ofloxacin-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Therefore, if the MIC of moxifloxacin is lower than its peak serum level, it may be effective against XDR-TB. Our objective was to determine the efficacy of moxifloxacin in treating ofloxacin-resistant TB. We selected isogenic fluoroquinolone-resistant mutants of M. tuberculosis H37Rv in vivo. We infected Swiss mice with either wild-type H37Rv or one of three mutant strains with different MICs that are commonly seen in clinical practice. The MICs of the mutant strains ranged from below to above the peak moxifloxacin level seen in humans (3 μg/ml). Each mouse was treated with one of four moxifloxacin doses for 1 month. Moxifloxacin was effective against mutant strain GyrB D500N, with the lowest MIC (0.5 μg/ml), when the standard dose was doubled. Moxifloxacin reduced mortality in mice infected with mutant strain GyrA A90V with an intermediate MIC (2 μg/ml). However, it had no impact on the mutant strain GyrA D94G with the highest MIC (4 μg/ml). Our study underscores current WHO recommendations to use moxifloxacin when there is resistance to early-generation fluoroquinolones such as ofloxacin, restricting this recommendation to strains with moxifloxacin MICs of less than or equal to 2 μg/ml.


Subnanosecond pulsing of a 3-MV Van de Graaff electron accelerator by means of a passive coaxial pulse shaper.
A passive coaxial pulse shaper has been developed which produces a subnanosecond duration pulse with short rise and decay time from a long pulse with short rise time. The mechanical construction of the pulse shaper is a modified coaxial air line T-section. The pulse shaper has been incorporated in the pulsing circuit of a 3-MV Van de Graaff accelerator. The form of the resulting electron beam pulses was monitored both as the charge collected by a coaxial target and as the Cerenkov light emitted by a quartz plate. In both cases sequential sampling techniques were used. The electron beam pulses were found to have rise and decay tiems of approxiamtely 100 ps and a half-width as short as approximately 200 ps could be obtained. An advantage of this method of producing subnanosecond beam pulses is that it does not interfere with normal nanosecond pulsed operation of the Van de Graaff.


Dynamics of P. falciparum gametocytemia in symptomatic patients in an area of intense perennial transmission in Tanzania.
We investigated the dynamics of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytemia in symptomatic patients attending a local dispensary in the Kilombero district, Tanzania. Consenting individuals aged one and above, with varying asexual and sexual parasitemias were treated appropriately and asked to return weekly for 28 days. Gametocyte prevalence was highest on Day 7 of follow-up in all age groups (overall 30.5%). Multifactorial analysis showed that young age (chi2 = 18.4; P = 0.004), high asexual parasitemia on presentation (chi2 = 19.4; P = 0.0007) and gametocyte positivity on presentation (chi2 = 29.4; P = 0.001) were all significantly associated with the presence of gametocytes on Days 7 and 14 of follow-up. High presentation of asexual parasitemia alone was positively correlated with higher gametocyte densities on both days of follow-up (F4, 297 = 2.0; P = 0.049). Gametocyte incidence rates decreased significantly with age (chi2 = 7.6, P < 0.005). In summary, in this group of chloroquine-treated individuals, gametocyte prevalence and incidence rates decreased with age, while densities remained relatively constant.


Shape-controlled growth of In(OH)3/In2O3 nanostructures by electrodeposition.
In(OH)(3) nanostructures with controllable shapes were successfully synthesized using indium nitrate as an indium source by one-step electrodeposition process. The influences of the reaction temperature, time, indium nitrate concentration, and the applied potential on the morphology of the obtained products were discussed in detail. The results revealed that the growth behavior of In(OH)(3) was mainly determined by the indium nitrate concentration and applied potential, and well-defined ellipsoids, cubes, and rods could be prepared under suitable conditions. Their possible growth mechanisms as well as photocatalytic applications were addressed. Furthermore, In(2)O(3) nanostructures were obtained from In(OH)(3) upon heating, while size and morphology can be maintained during this process.


Deep Clustering and Visualization for End-to-End High-Dimensional Data Analysis.
High-dimensional data analysis for exploration and discovery includes two fundamental tasks: deep clustering and data visualization. When these two associated tasks are done separately, as is often the case thus far, disagreements can occur among the tasks in terms of geometry preservation. Namely, the clustering process is often accompanied by the corruption of the geometric structure, whereas visualization aims to preserve the data geometry for better interpretation. Therefore, how to achieve deep clustering and data visualization in an end-to-end unified framework is an important but challenging problem. In this article, we propose a novel neural network-based method, called deep clustering and visualization (DCV), to accomplish the two associated tasks end-to-end to resolve their disagreements. The DCV framework consists of two nonlinear dimensionality reduction (NLDR) transformations: 1) one from the input data space to latent feature space for clustering and 2) the other from the latent feature space to the final 2-D space for visualization. Importantly, the first NLDR transformation is mainly optimized by one Clustering Loss, allowing arbitrary corruption of the geometric structure for better clustering, while the second NLDR transformation is optimized by one Geometry-Preserving Loss to recover the corrupted geometry for better visualization. Extensive comparative results show that the DCV framework outperforms other leading clustering-visualization algorithms in terms of both quantitative evaluation metrics and qualitative visualization.


Highly selective nickel-catalyzed three-component coupling of alkynes with enones and alkenyl boronic acids: a novel route to substituted 1,3-dienes.
A highly regio- and stereoselective nickel-catalyzed three-component coupling of alkynes with enones and alkenyl boronic acids to afford highly substituted 1,3-dienes is described. The reaction can also be extended to cyclization of enynes with coupling to alkenyl boronic acids. A possible reaction mechanism involving a five-membered nickelacycle as a key intermediate is proposed.


New estimates of child mortality in the United States at the turn of the century.
"This article estimates levels of childhood mortality on the basis of new data derived from a nationally representative sample of manuscripts of the 1900 U.S. census. The data are responses to census questions on numbers of children ever born and numbers surviving. The results for a subsample corresponding to the small death registration area (DRA) in 1900/02 validate the procedures used." The findings suggest that the 1900-1902 DRA life tables seriously overestimate child mortality among blacks. "Evidence also indicates that child mortality was declining at a moderate pace in the late 19th century, but that little decline was occurring among blacks. The results suggest the need for revising accounts of American black demographic history, including birth rates. They also imply that 20th-century progress in narrowing black-white mortality differentials has been smaller than is commonly believed."


Superoxide dismutase in CSF from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients with and without CuZn-superoxide dismutase mutations.
Mutations in CuZn-superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD) have been linked to familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and motor neurone death is caused by the gain of a toxic property of the mutant protein. Here we determined amounts, activity and molecular forms of CuZn-SOD in CSF from ALS patients carrying the D90A and other CuZn-SOD mutations and patients without such mutations. There were no differences in amount of protein and enzymic activities of CuZn-SOD between 37 neurological controls, 54 sporadic and 12 familial ALS cases, and 10 cases homozygous for the D90A mutation. Three cases heterozygous for the A89V, S105L and G114A CuZn-SOD mutations showed low amounts of CuZn-SOD. There was no evidence for accumulation of inactive protein in any of the groups. Immunoblots showed no evidence for the presence of any precipitates or other molecular forms of CuZn-SOD with higher molecular weight in the groups. About 25% of the CuZn-SOD subunits in CSF from controls shows an N-terminal truncation. This truncated portion does not differ between controls and ALS groups not carrying CuZn-SOD mutations, but is 70% larger in samples from D90A homozygous ALS patients. The findings suggest an essentially normal amount and activity of D90A mutant CuZn-SOD in CNS tissues of ALS cases. The increased occurrence of N-terminally truncated mutant subunits may indicate a difference in degradation routes compared with the wild-type enzyme, resistance against subsequent proteolytic steps and/or a compromised downstream proteolytic machinery. Molecular fragments accumulated to a greater extent from the D90A mutant enzyme might contribute to the motor neurone degeneration. We also determined the other SOD isoenzymes: in the controls, CuZn-SOD contributed 75%, extracellular SOD 25% and Mn-SOD <5% of the total SOD activity. There was no difference in the amount of extracellular SOD between any of the groups.


Iranian Consensus Recommendations for Treatment of Myasthenia Gravis.
Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an immune-mediated potentially treatable disease in which rapid diagnosis and proper treatment can control symptoms. Treatment should be individualized in each patient according to distribution (ocular or generalized) and severity of the weakness, antibody status, thymus pathology, patient comorbidities, and preferences. A group of Iranian neuromuscular specialists have written these recommendations to treat MG based on national conditions. Four of the authors performed an extensive literature review, including PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar, from 1932 to 2020 before the central meeting to define headings and subheadings. The experts held a 2-day session where the primary drafts were discussed point by point. Primary algorithms for the management of MG patients were prepared in the panel discussion. After the panel, the discussions continued in virtual group discussions, and the prepared guideline was finalized after agreement and concordance between the panel members. Finally, a total of 71 expert recommendations were included. We attempted to develop a guideline based on Iran's local requirements. We hope that these guidelines help healthcare professionals in proper treatment and follow-up of patients with MG.


Pharmacokinetics and toxicity of bromide following high-dose oral potassium bromide administration in healthy Beagles.
The pharmacokinetics of a multidose regimen of potassium bromide (KBr) administration in normal dogs was examined. KBr was administered at 30 mg/kg p.o. q 12 h for a period of 115 days. Serum, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) bromide (BR) concentrations were measured at the onset of dosing, during the accumulation phase, at steady-state, and after a subsequent dose adjustment. Median elimination half-life and steady-state serum concentration were 15.2 days and 245 mg/dL, respectively. Apparent total body clearance was 16.4 mL/day/kg and volume of distribution was 0.40 L/kg. The CSF:serum BR ratio at steady-state was 0.77. Dogs showed no neurologic deficits during maintenance dosing but significant latency shifts in waves I and V of the brainstem auditory evoked response were evident. Following a subsequent dose adjustment, serum BR concentrations of approximately 400 mg/dL were associated with caudal paresis in two dogs. Estimated half-life during the accumulation phase was shorter than elimination half-lives reported in other studies and was likely related to dietary chloride content. The range of steady-state concentrations achieved suggests individual differences in clearance and bioavailability between dogs. The described protocol reliably produced serum BR concentrations that are required by many epileptic patients for satisfactory seizure control.


Electron microscopic observations on the luminal surface of teat cup liners of milking machines used under South African conditions.
An investigation undertaken with the aid of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on new and used teat cup liners revealed the generally poor quality of luminal surfaces. Even those of the brand-new distributor controls showed significant faults in the evenness and continuity of the liner surface. A hundred and 500 milkings apparently tend to aggravate faults like cracks, pores, grooves and pits, because of the general brittleness of some of the teat cup liners. The poor quality of the liners investigated raises various questions about the method of distribution of teat cup liners and serious concern about the role they play in predisposing bovine udders to mastitogenic infections, spreading mastitis, affecting the production and quality of milk, increasing the cost of milk production and reducing profits of dairy farming.


Study on Transient Queue-Size Distribution in the Finite-Buffer Model with Batch Arrivals and Multiple Vacation Policy.
The transient behavior of the finite-buffer queueing model with batch arrivals and generally distributed repeated vacations is analyzed. Such a system has potential applications in modeling the functioning of production systems, computer and telecommunication networks with energy saving mechanism based on cyclic monitoring the queue state (Internet of Things, wireless sensors networks, etc.). Identifying renewal moments in the evolution of the system and applying continuous total probability law, a system of Volterra-type integral equations for the time-dependent queue-size distribution, conditioned by the initial buffer state, is derived. A compact-form solution for the corresponding system written for Laplace transforms is obtained using an algebraic approach based on Korolyuk's potential method. An illustrative numerical example presenting the impact of the service rate, arrival rate, initial buffer state and single vacation duration on the queue-size distribution is attached as well.


Higher use of psychotropic drugs among people with Alzheimer's in their nineties.
Psychotropic drugs are more commonly prescribed to people with Alzheimer's disease aged 90 years or more, compared with younger people with the condition, say researchers from the University of Eastern Finland.


Density-dependent effects of Anguillicola crassus (Nematoda) within and on its copepod intermediate hosts.
Density-dependent effects of Anguillicola crassus larval infections in the copepod intermediate host were examined experimentally. Three species of copepods (Cyclops vicinus, C. viridis and C. fuscus) were subjected to a range of doses of larval A. crassus within infection arenas. Prevalence, intensity and parasite dispersion (variance: mean abundance) values increase and then approach an asymptote as infection dose increases. Infection parameters differ between species of copepod. Increasing temperature has a negative effect on the establishment of the parasite population within the intermediate host. Parasite-induced host mortality increases with dose. These mechanisms have the potential to regulate populations of A. crassus larvae within the copepod population and hence the whole suprapopulation.


Late onset of familial neurogenic diabetes insipidus in monozygotic twins.
Autosomal dominant familial diabetes insipidus (FNDI) is a rare disease characterized by polydipsia and polyuria due to deficiency of the antidiuretic hormone, arginine vasopressin (AVP). We report the first Slovak family with the disease. Noteworthy is the concordantly belated debut of the disease symptoms in two monozygotic twin proband girls in the age of 17 years. Because of inconclusive results of water deprivation test consistent with partial diabetes insipidus (DI), missing "bright spot" of posterior pituitary gland in T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and family occurrence of polyuria and polydipsia on anamnestic evaluation. Molecular genetic testing of the AVP gene was proceeded, because of the inconclusive results of water deprivation test consistent with partial diabetes insipidus, missing "bright spot" of posterior pituitary gland in T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging and family occurrence of polyuria and polydipsia on anamnestic evaluation. Genetic analysis revealed a heterozygous g.279G>A substitution that predicts a p.Ala19Thr substitution in the signal peptide of the AVP prohormone. The wide intrafamiliar variations (3 to 17 years) in disease onset together with the concordantly delayed debut of polyuria in two monozygotic twin girls suggest that individual differences in genetic influences family environmental factors may modify the penetrance of the mutation of the AVP gene. The present paper supports the notion that molecular genetic evaluation should be performed in all patients with familial occurrence of DI regardless of the clinical results.


Identifying a hunter responsible for killing a hunting dog by individual-specific genetic profiling of wild boar DNA transferred to the canine during the accidental shooting.
While genetic profiling can be a powerful tool to solve wildlife crime, comparably few examples of individual identification in wildlife forensics are available in the literature. Here, we report a case of an accidental shooting of a hunting dog during a wild boar drive hunt. The market value of trained hunting dogs can reach several thousand euro. No one admitted to killing the dog. Wild boar hairs were found in the dog's wound, suggesting that the bullet first hit a wild boar and then the dog. Since it was known who harvested each boar, we aimed to use individual-specific genetic profiles to link these hairs to a bagged animal and to identify the culprit. We genotyped 19 harvested boar and the unknown hair sample using 13 STRs. In the case of the hair sample, we performed multiple genotyping to ensure the reliability of the genetic profile. We showed that we genotyped sufficient loci to distinguish between separate individuals with certainty. While the three most informative loci were enough to differentiate the 19 reference individuals, we did find a perfect match at all 13 STRs between the hair DNA and one tissue sample. Since our methods were reliable and reproducible, we passed the relevant information on to forestry officials who will use the information we have provided to attempt to find an amicable solution.


Gynophore miRNA analysis at different developmental stages in Arachis duranensis.
Peanut is one of the most important oilseed crops in the world that provides a significant amount of lipids and protein for many people. The gynophore plays an important role in gynophore development after fertilization of the peanut ovule. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in numerous developmental and physiological plant processes. Therefore, it is essential to analyze the miRNA sequences at different gynophore stages to explore and validate gene function. Multiple small RNAs were sequenced and collected from gynophore stages A1, A2, and A3 (5, 10, and 20 days of development, respectively) for further prediction. We obtained 266 known and 357 novel miRNAs from the three different stages. Stage A3 had the largest number of reads. Genes involved in the lignin catabolic process were identified only at stage A1. The copper ion-binding process also specifically emerged at stage A1, whereas negative regulation of biological processes occurred only in stages A2 and A3. The genes related to growth were found only at stage A3, suggesting that the gynophore may contribute to rapid development of the gynophore at this stage. Our identification and assessment of miRNAs from different gynophore stages may serve as a basis for further studies of gynophore miRNA regulation mechanisms. Some biological processes were specifically regulated at different gynophore stages indicating that miRNAs play an important role in the gynophore development.


[Nutrition therapy in 542 hospitalized patients].
The purpose of the study was to evaluate the feasibility of nutritional therapy in a university hospital. Over a four-year period, 542 adult patients from 16 different departments were included in the study due to malnutrition and/or severe disease. Energy requirement including a surplus for weight gain was calculated by the factorial method and feeding was undertaken by means of food, liquid supplements, tube feeding or parenteral nutrition for an average period of 4.8 weeks. In patients with benign disease only, the average weight gain was as expected from energy balance but in patients with a benign stress-catabolic disease weight gain was only 40% of that expected. In malnourished patients with malignant disease, radiation- or chemotherapy could be carried out without further loss of body weight. During bone-marrow transplantation only a minor weight loss occurred. In conclusion, nutritional therapy is feasible in a clinical setting and the methods employed can identify groups of patients that require only nutritional support and other groups of patients that in addition require treatment of a stress-catabolic state.


[Effects of Guizhi Fuling Decoction on YKL-40 and hs-CRP of patients with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome].
To investigate the changes of serum levels of chitinase-3-like-1 protein (YKL-40) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in patients with non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndrome (ACS), to explore its correlation with its severity, and to observe the effects of Guizhi Fuling Decoction (GFD) on levels of blood lipids, YKL-40, and hs-CRP. Recruited were 72 patients with unstable angina (UA) or non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) at Department of Integrative Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College from August 2010 to June 2011. They were randomly assigned to the treatment group (36 cases) and the control group (36 cases). All patients were treated by routine treatment, but patients in the treatment group took GFD additionally. The course of treatment was four weeks. According to the severity degree, all patients were graded to four ranks: low-risk group of UA, medium-risk group of UA, high-risk group of UA, and NSTEMI. The levels of YKL-40 and hs-CRP, and the correlation of severity degree were analyzed. Before and after treatment levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were measured. Before treatment, at two weeks, and after treatment the serum levels of YKL-40 and hs-CRP were detected. The relationship of YKL-40, hs-CRP and the severity of the disease were analyzed. Levels of YKL-40 and hs-CRP were positively correlated with the severity of the disease respectively (r = 0.729, P < 0.05; r = 0.655, P < 0.05). The positive correlation also existed between YKL-40 and hs-CRP (r = 0.848, P < 0.05). There was no statistical difference in the levels of blood lipids, YKL-40, or hs-CRP between the two groups before treatment (P > 0.05). Compared with before treatment, the levels of YKL-40 and hs-CRP significantly decreased in both groups after two weeks of treatment (P < 0.05). The levels of TG, TC, LDL-C, YKL-40, and hs-CRP significantly decreased, while the HDL-C level increased in both groups after treatment (P < 0.05). The level of HDL-C in the treatment group was higher, while levels of YKL-40 and hs-CRP were lower after treatment, when compared with the control group (all P < 0.05). On the basis of anti-inflammation and adjusting blood lipids by Western medicine, GFD could further reduce the serum levels of YKL-40 and hs-CRP of ACS patients, elevate the HDL-C level, and play anti-atherosclerosis effects.


A profile of the female cycle length.
"This study suggests some points of view about the menstrual cycle length. In the first part aggregate indicators of cycle characteristics are computed for various types of data aggregations.... In the second part, the period analysis and the consequent estimated spectral density functions are applied to the basal body temperature series." Data are for 1,798 women in London, England. (SUMMARY IN ITA)


Evaluation of genotoxicity by micronucleus assay in oral leukoplakia and oral squamous cell carcinoma with deleterious habits.
Oral cancer is the 12th most common cancer in women and the 6th in men. Of all oral malignancies, more than 92-95% is Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC). The high risk was due to Lifestyle-related habits such as smoking, alcohol consumption, chewing of areca nut related products which are considered as the major risk factors in OSCC. The exogenous carcinogens from tobacco smoke may induce a defective DNA damage response, which may alter the expression of genes that protect us against cancer that may result in genomic instability and this DNA damage can be assessed by studying the chromosomal aberrations, sister chromatid exchanges and the varied forms of the micronucleus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk of development of oral leukoplakia (OLP) and OSCC due to DNA damage by studying micronuclei count in the east coast of Andhra Pradesh population with tobacco consumption habit and habit-free controls using Fluorescent microscopy. A total of 60 subjects, 20 normal controls, 20 oral leukoplakia and 20 OSCC patients were selected from the outpatient patients of GITAM Dental College and Hospital, Rushikonda, Visakhapatnam and peripheral cancer hospitals in and around Visakhapatnam. Exfoliated cells were collected by giving 5-6 gentle strokes with spatula in a continuous unidirectional movement and then were uniformly spread on the previously cleaned microscopic slide. Fluorescent stain 4', 6'-diamidino-2 phenylindole (DAPI) was used for MN analysis. Mean of cells with MN in controls, leukoplakia and OSCC cases was observed to be 1, 5.1,10.1 (F = 112.396, P < 0.001) respectively. Mean of the cells with MN in different grades of leukoplakia. (F = 35.594, P < 0.001) Mean of the cells with MN in different grades of OSCC. (F = 39.752, P < 0.001). The present study revealed an increase in mean frequency of cells with micronucleus from healthy individuals however similar studies in larger sample has to be done. This study concludes that MN index can be used as a screening test among high risk groups.


Autotransplantation of teeth to the anterior maxilla: A systematic review of survival and success, aesthetic presentation and patient-reported outcome.
Autotransplantation of teeth to the anterior maxilla may be indicated after trauma or in patients with congenitally missing teeth. The aim of this systematic review was to report the current evidence concerning survival and success rate, aesthetic outcome, and patient-reported outcome of autotransplanted teeth to the anterior maxilla. A MEDLINE search followed by an additional hand search was performed to identify relevant literature. All levels of evidence except case reports were considered. Any publication reporting on 10 or more autotransplanted teeth to the anterior maxilla, and written in English were eligible for this systematic review. The systematic search identified 95 abstracts. Thirty-seven full-text articles were evaluated of which 17 could finally be included. Data on survival and success rate of the transplants could be extracted from 11 studies. Survival rates ranged between 93% and 100% (weighted mean: 96.7%, median: 100%) after 9 months to 22 years of observation (median: 8.75 years). No consensus regarding definition of success criteria of the transplants could be found in the literature. Two and four studies contained data on aesthetic and patient-reported outcomes, respectively. In general, they reported favourable aesthetic results and high patient satisfaction. The current available evidence suggests a high survival rate after autotransplantation of teeth to the anterior maxilla. However, the level of evidence is low. Limited data on aesthetic and patient-reported outcomes warrant additional research in this field.


Overexpression of nuclear transport factor 2 may protect against diabetic retinopathy.
We performed human, animal, and in vitro studies to examine the potential role of nuclear transport factor 2 (NTF2) in conferring resistance to diabetic retinopathy (DR). Blood NTF2 levels were assessed in two groups of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Group P patients had a history of proliferative DR (PDR), while group N patients did not. The retinal vasculature was examined in diabetic rats three months after they received an intravitreal injection of a recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vector overexpressing NTF2 (rAAV2-NTF2). Control rats were treated with rAAV2 only. Rat retinal capillary endothelial cells (RRCECs) were infected with rAAV2-NTF2, or with a vector expressing siRNA targeted against NTF2, to assess the effects of overexpression and inhibition of NTF2 on vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression (mRNA and protein). There was a strong trend for patients with DR to have lower blood NTF2 levels compared to those who did not have DR (0.10+/-0.01 versus 0.20+/-0.08, p=0.079). There was significantly less retinal blood vessel leakage in diabetic rats infected with rAAV2-NTF2 compared to controls (16.5+/-2.9 versus 24.7+/-7.3, p=0.039). These rats exhibited normal retinal vasculature and blood-retinal barrier function. VEGF expression was inhibited by NTF2 overexpression and stimulated by NTF2 inhibition, (protein [0.41+/-0.05 versus 0.23+/-0.06] and mRNA [0.37+/-0.04 versus 0.23+/-0.06] p<0.01 for all). These finding suggest that NTF2 is a potential mediator of retinal vasculature integrity. NTF2 may act by altering VEGF expression, thereby influencing the development of DR in patients with diabetes mellitus.


Organometallic Chalcones Functioning as Radical Traps: Observations on the Solvated Electron Reduction and the C·H2OH and C·H2Cl Addition Processes. A Time-Resolved, Mechanistic Study.
The pulse radiolysis method was used to investigate reactions between organometallic chalcones derived from ferrocene, cyrhetrene, and cymantrene substituted with a phenyl (R1) or a 4'-benzo-15-crown-5 (B1) moiety and the solvated electron e-sol and two radicals. The principal spectroscopic transformations resolved with the e-sol reactions reveal that the chalcone compounds react under a diffusion controlled condition. The chromophore in the reaction product is the radical anion chalcone, -C(═O)CH═CH-. The kinetics of the redox processes are consistent with the formation of the radical anion in a first step, followed by an E/Z isomerization reaction in the second step. The rate of the E/Z isomerization reaction is dependent on the chalcone substituent. Reactions with C·H2OH and C·H2Cl radicals are strongly affected by the nature of the organometallic fragment. The transient spectra for the reactions between C·H2OH and C·H2Cl radicals with the phenyl-substituted chalcone show weak, broad absorption bands at λob < 400 nm. Only the ferrocenyl derivatives showed an intense absorption band with λmax = 350 nm. The C-centered radicals react with organometallic chalcones with lifetimes less than or equal to a few microseconds, and the products are assigned as adducts of the C-centered radicals to the chalcone.


Robotic Surgery for Ulcerative Colitis.
Subtotal colectomy (STC) or total proctocolectomy (TPC) and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) performed in two or three stages remain the procedure of choice for patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Minimally invasive laparoscopic approaches for STC and IPAA have been established for over a decade, having been shown to reduce postoperative pain, length of stay, and improve fertility. However "straight-stick" laparoscopy has ergonomic and visual disadvantages in the pelvis, which may contribute to IPAA failure. The robotic platform was developed to overcome these limitations. Robotic STC is associated with lower conversion rates and earlier return of bowel function with acceptably longer operative time (mean, 28 minutes) than laparoscopic STC. The robotic approach has also been shown in case series to be safe in urgent settings. Robotic IPAA is associated with lower blood loss and length of stay than laparoscopic IPAA. Robotic TPC/IPAA has been shown in small case series to be safe and feasible despite longer operating times.


The art of age-appropriate care: reflecting on a conceptual model of the cancer experience for teenagers and young adults.
There is recognition that teenagers and young adults with cancer merit age-appropriate specialist care. However, outcomes associated with such specialist care are not defined. Patient experience and patient-reported outcomes such as quality of life are gaining importance. Nevertheless, there is a lack of theoretical basis and patient involvement in experience surveys for young people. We previously proposed a conceptual model of the lived experience of cancer. We aimed to refine this model adding to areas that were lacking or underreported. The proposed conceptual framework will inform a bespoke patient experience survey for young people. Using participatory research, 11 young people aged 13 to 25 years at diagnosis, participated in a 1-day workshop consisting of semistructured peer-to-peer interviews. Eight core themes emerged: impact of cancer diagnosis, information provision, place of care, role of health professionals, coping, peers, psychological support, and life after cancer. The conceptual framework has informed survey development for a longitudinal cohort study examining patient experience and outcomes associated with specialist cancer care. Young people must be kept at the center of interactions in recognition of their stated needs of engagement, of individually tailored information and support unproxied by parents/family. Age-appropriate information and support services that help young people deal with the impact of cancer on daily life and life after cancer must be made available. If we are to develop services that meet need, patient experience surveys must be influenced by patient involvement. Young people can be successfully involved in planning research relevant to their experience.


Revision of the Japanese species of Epicephala Meyrick with descriptions of seven new species (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae).
Epicephala moths are involved in obligate mutualisms with their Phyllanthaceae hosts, in which the female moths assure pollination and, in return, their progeny develop by consuming the seeds. Ecological, molecular and geographical data suggest that the genus includes several hundred species, but the majority remains to be formally described. Here we revise the Japanese species of Epicephala Meyrick, 1880. In addition to two previously named species, seven species are newly described: Epicephala anthophilia sp. n., Epicephala lanceolatella sp. n., Epicephala perplexa sp. n., Epicephala obovatella sp. n., Epicephala corruptrix sp. n., Epicephala parasitica sp. n. and Epicephala nudilingua sp. n. The first four are species involved in obligate pollination mutualism, while the fifth is a pollinating seed parasite and the last two are derived non-pollinating seed parasites of herbaceous Phyllanthus. Each of the nine Japanese Epicephela species is specialized to a single plant species in the genera Glochidion, Breynia or Phyllanthus, except for Epicephala obovatella and Epicephala corruptrix that each utilizes two closely related Glochidion species. Considerable variations are found in pollination and oviposition behaviors among species, which are reflected in their proboscis and ovipositor morphologies, respectively. Molecular phylogeny indicated that there have been repeated transitions in oviposition mode during the diversification of Epicephala, which were accompanied by changes in ovipositor morphology, as suggested by a correlation analysis. Keys to species are provided.


Computational studies of ion-pair separation of benzylic organolithium compounds in THF: importance of explicit and implicit solvation.
Ion-pair separation (IPS) of THF-solvated fluorenyl (1(C)), diphenylmethyl (2(C)), and trityl (3(C)) lithium was studied computationally. Minimum energy equilibrium geometries of explicit bis- and tris-solvated contact ion pairs (CIPs) and tetrakis-solvated separated ion pairs (SIPs) were located at B3LYP/6-31G*. Associative transition structures linking the tris-solvated CIPs and tetrakis-solvated SIPs were also located. Based on MP2/6-31G*//B3LYP/6-31G* energies, the resting states of the CIPs are predicted to be trisolvates. Calculated enthalpies of IPS (DeltaH(IPS)) at 298 K were compared to experimental (UV-vis spectroscopy) solution values reported in the literature. In vacuum, B3LYP/6-31G* DeltaH(IPS) values for 1(C) x (THF)(3)-3(C) x (THF)(3) are 6-8 kcal/mol less exothermic than the experimentally determined values in THF solution. Closer examination of the individual steps of ion-pair separation (ionization, solvation, ion-pair recombination), as well as comparison of calculated structures with the published X-ray structures of 1(C) x (THF)(3) and 3(S) x (THF)(4), suggested that in vacuo modeling of the SSIPs was problematic. Incorporation of secondary solvation in the form of Onsager and PCM single-point calculations showed an increase in exothermicity of IPS. Application of a continuum solvation model (Onsager) during optimization at the B3LYP/6-31G* level of theory produced significant changes in the C(alpha)-Li contact distances in the SSIPs, and B3LYP/6-31G* (PCM)//B3LYP/6-31G* (Onsager) energies bring DeltaH(IPS) within 5-6 kcal/mol of experiment. Possible strategies to achieve closer agreement with experiment are discussed.


Orchestration of the circadian clock and its association with Alzheimer's disease: Role of endocannabinoid signaling.
Circadian rhythms are 24-hour natural rhythms regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus, also known as the "master clock". The retino-hypothalamic tract entrains suprachiasmatic nucleus with photic information to synchronise endogenous circadian rhythms with the Earth's light-dark cycle. However, despite the robustness of circadian rhythms, an unhealthy lifestyle and chronic photic disturbances cause circadian rhythm disruption in the suprachiasmatic nucleus's TTFL loops via affecting glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid-mediated neurotransmission in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. Recently, considerable evidence has been shown correlating CRd with the incidence of Alzheimer's disease. The present review aims to identify the existence and signalling of endocannabinoids in CRd induced Alzheimer's disease through retino-hypothalamic tract- suprachiasmatic nucleus-cortex. Immunohistochemistry has confirmed the expression of cannabinoid receptor 1 in the suprachiasmatic nucleus to modulate the circadian phases of the master clock. Literature also suggests that cannabinoids may alter activity of suprachiasmatic nucleus by influencing the activity of their major neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid or by interacting indirectly with the suprachiasmatic nucleus's two other major inputs i.e., the geniculo-hypothalamic tract-mediated release of neuropeptide Y and serotonergic inputs from the dorsal raphe nuclei. Besides, the expression of cannabinoid receptor 2 ameliorates cognitive deficits via reduction of tauopathy and microglial activation. In conclusion, endocannabinoids may be identified as a putative target for correcting CRd and decelerating Alzheimer's disease.


The interaction of human immunodeficiency virus-1 and human endogenous retroviruses in patients (primary cell cultures) and cell line models.
In this work, we demonstrated that human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection leads to the modification of the human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) expression. Differential expression of multiple HERVs was found in peripheral blood mononuclear cells derived from HIV-infected patients compared to healthy donors and HIV-infected T cell cultures compared to non-infected. The effect of HIV presence on HERV expression appears to be more restricted in cells of monocytic origin, as only deregulation of HERV-W and HERV-K (HML-6) was found in these cell cultures after their infection with HIV. Multiple factors contribute to this aberrant HERV expression, and its levels appear to be modified in a time-dependent manner. Further studies and the development of optimized in vitro protocols are warranted to elucidate the interactions between HIV and HERVs in detail.


Emittance of short-pulsed high-current ion beams formed from the plasma of the electron cyclotron resonance discharge sustained by high-power millimeter-wave gyrotron radiation.
We present experimental results on measuring the emittance of short-pulsed (≤100 μs) high-current (80-100 mA) ion beams of heavy gases (Nitrogen, Argon) formed from a dense plasma of an ECR source of multiply charged ions (MCI) with quasi-gas-dynamic mode of plasma confinement in a magnetic trap of simple mirror configuration. The discharge was created by a high-power (90 kW) pulsed radiation of a 37.5-GHz gyrotron. The normalized emittance of generated ion beams of 100 mA current was (1.2-1.3) π mm mrad (70% of ions in the beams). Comparing these results with those obtained using a cusp magnetic trap, it was concluded that the structure of the trap magnetic field lines does not exert a decisive influence on the emittance of ion beams in the gas-dynamic ECR source of MCI.


Leader region of mdg1 Drosophila retrotransposon RNA contains 3'-end processing sites.
Transient expression of the mdg1 deletion mutants revealed sites of 3'-end processing in the leader region of the transcribed RNA. The efficiency of the processing is regulated in different types of cells. The sequences within the mdg1 body and the 3'-LTR are involved in its regulation. We have also shown, that one of the small open reading frames in the mdg1 leader region in principle might be translated.


Basic statistical testing, including interim analysis.
Clinical trials, due to the randomization process, require statistical methods for testing key hypotheses that are straightforward and involve simple comparisons of group proportions or group means. Differences between group proportions are tested using a chi 2 statistic or a Fisher's exact test. Differences between group means are tested using a two-sample t statistic. When there are more than two groups, the F statistic is calculated. When ordinal data or data not normally distributed are analyzed, nonparametric testing is performed. A critical decision prior to analysis is the choice of the endpoint, which must be clearly defined and consistently applied. Monitoring a clinical trial is important, and may lead to interim analysis. This should be done by independent study monitors. Interim results play an important role in analyzing clinical trials; however, they create problems due to multiple testing. An early stoppage rule is frequently applied when independent interim results are obtained. The statistical methods for interim analysis are discussed.


Heat strain during explosive ordnance disposal.
Bomb technicians perform their work while encapsulated in explosive ordnance disposal suits. Designed primarily for safety, these suits have an unintended consequence of impairing the body's natural mechanisms for heat dissipation. Consequently, bomb technicians are known to experience symptoms of heat illness while performing their work. This research provides the first field based analysis of heat strain in bomb technicians. Six participants undertook simulated operational tasks across 2 days of variable climate. All subjects demonstrated high levels of heat strain as evidenced by elevated heart rate, core body temperature, and physiological strain index. Participants also reported signs and symptoms associated with heat illness. These results were exacerbated by more intense physical activity despite being undertaken in a cooler environment. The universal experience of heat strain in this sample has significant implications for the health of bomb technicians and additional research examining methods to improve temperature regulation and performance is warranted.


An overview of acute exacerbations of COPD: assessing and preventing acute exacerbations of COPD.
COPD is a chronic respiratory disorder that is a major cause of morbidity for patients and carers, and is predicted to be the third leading cause of death worldwide by 2020 (Murray and Lopez, 1997). It is characterised by chronic airflow limitation, airway inflammation, structural changes to the airways and parenchyma and some systemic effects (Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD), 2008). It is primarily caused by smoking, although other causes such as occupational factors have been identified (NICE, 2004). This article aims to provide an overview of some important aspects of acute exacerbations of COPD that need to be considered by all healthcare professionals.


Exploring the anti-quorum sensing activity of a d-limonene nanoemulsion for Escherichia coli O157:H7.
In this study, a d-limonene nanoemulsion was developed by using a spontaneous emulsification method and its potential to inhibit the quorum sensing (QS)-regulated properties of Escherichia coli O157:H7 (E. coli) were revealed. The results in this study showed that d-limonene nanoemulsion inhibited E. coli biofilm formation through the suppression of curli and extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) production without inhibiting cell growth, and decreased swimming and swarming ability. Further analyses showed that d-limonene nanoemulsion interfered with auto-inducer 2 (AI-2) communication and repressed the expression of curli related genes and AI-2 importer genes in E. coli. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1979-1986, 2018.


Disc hemorrhage and peripapillary atrophy in apparently healthy subjects.
We estimated the prevalence of disc hemorrhage and peripapillary atrophy in apparently healthy subjects. We reviewed consecutive plain color fundus photographs of 12,140 eyes of 6,070 subjects (male/female=4,079/1,991) who visited a health consultation center. We analyzed 11,934 eyes of 5,967 subjects with good quality of photographs. Disc hemorrhage was found in 36 eyes of 35 subjects (0.6%). The prevalence of disc hemorrhage was significantly greater in women 60 years of age or older (Fisher's exact test, p=0.0004). The prevalence of peripapillary atrophy (zone Beta, zone Alpha), and suspected glaucomatous excavation in eyes with disc hemorrhage was 66.7%, 86.1% and 25.0%, respectively, and significantly greater than that (29.1%, 52.9% and 1.7%) in eyes without disc hemorrhage (Fisher's exact test, p<0.0001). Disc hemorrhage is more frequent in women over 60 years of age and is significantly associated with peripapillary atrophy in otherwise apparently healthy Japanese people.


Dipeptidylpeptidase-IV activity and expression reveal decreased damage to the intrahepatic biliary tree in fatty livers submitted to subnormothermic machine-perfusion respect to conventional cold storage.
Graft steatosis is a risk factor for poor initial function after liver transplantation. Biliary complications are frequent even after normal liver transplantation. A subnormothermic machine perfusion (MP20) preservation procedure was developed by our group with high potential for reducing injury to hepatocytes and sinusoidal cells of lean and fatty livers respect to conventional cold storage (CS). We report the response of the biliary tree to CS or MP20, in lean and obese Zucker rat liver. Dipeptidylpeptidase-IV (DPP-IV), crucial for the inactivation of incretins and neuropeptides, was used as a marker. Liver morphology and canalicular network of lean livers were similar after CS/reperfusion or MP20/reperfusion. CS preservation of fatty livers induced serious damage to the parenchyma and to the canalicular activity/expression of DPP-IV whereas with MP20 the morphology and canalicular network were similar to those of untreated lean liver. CS and MP20 had similar effects on DPP-IV activity and expression in the upper segments of the intrahepatic biliary tree of fatty livers. DPP-IV expression was significantly increased after MP20 respect to CS or to the controls, both for lean and obese animals. Our data support the superiority of MP20 over CS for preserving fatty livers. Dipeptidylpeptidase-IV activity and expression reveal decreased damage to the intrahepatic biliary tree in fatty livers submitted to subnormothermic machine-perfusion respect to conventional cold storage.


Preparation, characterization, and photocatalytic activity of mesoporous TiO2 thin films.
Cubic-based ordered mesoporous TiO2 thin films were prepared by an evaporation-induced self-assembly method through a carefully controlling the hydrolysis/condensation conditions. The obtained sample exhibits mesoporous structure with a narrow pore size distribution. The TiO2 thin films have thick inorganic walls composed of nanocrystalline anatase. A reasonable explanation is also proposed to elucidate the formation of thick and stable mesoporous TiO2 films. The mesoporous TiO2 exhibits good photocatalytic activity. Nearly all the methyl orange has been degraded by the mesoporous TiO2 calcined at 500 degrees C.


[Diagnosis and prognosis of ovarian epithelial tumor with morphometry].
Morphometry for diagnosis and prognosis of tumor becomes important. This study was designed to evaluate the efficiency of morphometry for diagnosis and prognosis of the patients with ovarian epithelial tumor. A total of 110 patients with ovarian epithelial tumor were studied by three morphometrical methods (image analysis, determination of DNA content, and quantitative analysis of AgNOR). Nuclear area (NA), nuclear perimeter (NP), nuclear form factor (NFF), DNA content (DC), DNA index (DI), percentage of DNA multiploid (P > 4c), and percentage of G0/G1 phases (P2c) were determined by morphometrical instrument. AgNOR was counted under light microscope. (1) The results in these three groups of benign, borderline, and malignant ovarian epithelial tumors: the differences of all parameters (NA, NP, NFF, DC, DI, AgNOR counts) among these groups have a extremely significant statistical difference (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001). (2) A study on prognosis: NA, NP, and NFF between two groups of patients (survival > or = 5 years and < 5 years) with ovarian epithelial carcinoma have a significant difference(P < 0.05 and P < 0.01), this means different results of image analysis indicate different survival. AgNOR counts have a close correlation with month of the survivors (r = -0.73, P < 0.001). The P > 4c had a relation to month of survivors (r = -0.75, P < 0.001). Morphometry can provide reliable parameters for diagnosis and prognosis of the patients with different kinds of ovarian epithelial tumors.


Structural abnormalities develop in the brain after ablation of the gene encoding nonmuscle myosin II-B heavy chain.
Ablation of nonmuscle myosin heavy chain II-B (NMHC-B) in mice results in severe hydrocephalus with enlargement of the lateral and third ventricles. All B(-)/B(-) mice died either during embryonic development or on the day of birth (PO). Neurons cultured from superior cervical ganglia of B(-)/B(-) mice between embryonic day (E) 18 and P0 showed decreased rates of neurite outgrowth, and their growth cones had a distinctive narrow morphology compared with those from normal mice. Serial sections of E12.5, E13.5, and E15 mouse brains identified developmental defects in the ventricular neuroepithelium. On E12.5, disruption of the coherent ventricular surface and disordered cell migration of neuroepithelial and differentiated cells were seen at various points in the ventricular walls. These abnormalities resulted in the formation of rosettes in various regions of the brain and spinal cord. On E13.5 and E15, disruption of the ventricular surface and aberrant protrusions of neural cells into the ventricles became more prominent. By E18.5 and P0, the defects in cells lining the ventricular wall resulted in an obstructive hydrocephalus due to stenosis or occlusion of the third ventricle and cerebral aqueduct. These defects may be caused by abnormalities in the cell adhesive properties of neuroepithelial cells and suggest that NMHC-B is essential for both early and late developmental processes in the mammalian brain.


A melanocyte-keratinocyte coculture model to assess regulators of pigmentation in vitro.
Many melanocyte or skin equivalent models have been used to evaluate the potential efficacy of melanogenic compounds to regulate pigmentation, but there has been great variation in results, partially stemming from the use of different cell lines and diverse conditions for the melanogenic assays. In an earlier report, we optimized a microtiter format assay system to screen potential bioactive compounds using immortalized melan-a melanocytes. That assay system, termed the STOPR protocol, allowed effects on melanocyte proliferation and differentiation to be assessed in a highly sensitive, reproducible, and cost-effective manner. However, in the skin and hair, melanocytes interact with keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and other cell types, and testing of putative bioactive compounds on melanocytes alone in culture does not allow one to observe the interactions with those other cell types, such as would occur in vivo. Therefore, we developed a melanocyte-keratinocyte coculture protocol that allows testing of compounds for potential effects on pigmentation in a more physiologically relevant context. It is a sensitive, reproducible, and reliable model for testing melanogenic regulators, and we have standardized it with known melanogenic inhibitors (hydroquinone, arbutin, kojic acid, and niacinamide) and stimulators (alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, 8-methoxypsoralen, and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine). This coculture system allows for large-scale screening of candidate compounds in conjunction with the STOPR protocol and provides a more physiologically relevant system to study melanocyte-keratinocyte interactions and to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of melanogenic compounds.


Fructose overconsumption causes dyslipidemia and ectopic lipid deposition in healthy subjects with and without a family history of type 2 diabetes.
Both nutritional and genetic factors are involved in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and insulin resistance. The aim was to assess the effects of fructose, a potent stimulator of hepatic de novo lipogenesis, on intrahepatocellular lipids (IHCLs) and insulin sensitivity in healthy offspring of patients with type 2 diabetes (OffT2D)--a subgroup of individuals prone to metabolic disorders. Sixteen male OffT2D and 8 control subjects were studied in a crossover design after either a 7-d isocaloric diet or a hypercaloric high-fructose diet (3.5 g x kg FFM(-1) x d(-1), +35% energy intake). Hepatic and whole-body insulin sensitivity were assessed with a 2-step hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp (0.3 and 1.0 mU x kg(-1) x min(-1)), together with 6,6-[2H2]glucose. IHCLs and intramyocellular lipids (IMCLs) were measured by 1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The OffT2D group had significantly (P < 0.05) higher IHCLs (+94%), total triacylglycerols (+35%), and lower whole-body insulin sensitivity (-27%) than did the control group. The high-fructose diet significantly increased IHCLs (control: +76%; OffT2D: +79%), IMCLs (control: +47%; OffT2D: +24%), VLDL-triacylglycerols (control: +51%; OffT2D: +110%), and fasting hepatic glucose output (control: +4%; OffT2D: +5%). Furthermore, the effects of fructose on VLDL-triacylglycerols were higher in the OffT2D group (group x diet interaction: P < 0.05). A 7-d high-fructose diet increased ectopic lipid deposition in liver and muscle and fasting VLDL-triacylglycerols and decreased hepatic insulin sensitivity. Fructose-induced alterations in VLDL-triacylglycerols appeared to be of greater magnitude in the OffT2D group, which suggests that these individuals may be more prone to developing dyslipidemia when challenged by high fructose intakes. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT00523562.


[Effect of the bioantioxidant histochrome on myocardial injury in reperfusion therapy on patients with myocardial infarction].
To evaluate effects of histochrome on severity of reperfusion damage in opening of the coronary artery in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI). 86 acute MI patients were randomized into three groups. 26 patients of group 1 A received 100 mg histochrome 10 min before and 1 hour after intravenous bolus administration of thrombolytic streptokinase; 20 patients of group 1 B received histochrome by the same scheme on the disease day 1 followed by 100 mg/day for 10 days; 40 control patients have undergone thrombolysis without prophylactic histochrome. In the control group ventricular extrasystoles (VES) arose in 100% patients, in groups 1A and 1B--in 27%. The same picture was observed in relation to episodes of accelerated idioventricular rhythm. Coronary reperfusion was accompanied by fast dynamics of ST segment and ORS complex in the control group. MI focus measured by the Selvester ECG method was less in histochrome groups. After myocardial reperfusion malonic dialdehyde in the serum rose 6 times in the control groups and was slightly elevated in groups 1A and 1B. Preventive administration of histochrome before thrombolytic therapy to reperfuse myocardium diminishes reperfusion damage: inhibits activity of lipid peroxidation and development of necrosis focus in acute period of MI.


The Evaluation Of Empathy Level Of Undergraduate Dental Students In Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Empathy is of significant importance in the dentist-patient relationship. The objective of the current study was to assess the empathy level of students at the culmination of their respective academic year, studying in first to fourth year across the undergraduate dental school of Pakistan. The cross-sectional study of undergraduate dental students was carried out at the dental school of Riphah International University in Islamabad, Pakistan in 2017. The survey was conducted with each class as they approached near the completion of their academic year. The Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy- Health Professions Student Version (JSE-HPS version), was used in the study for measuring empathy. JSE-HPS is a valid and reliable self-reporting instrument comprising of 20 items. The total score on this instrument ranges between 20 and 140. ANOVA test and Independent sample t-test were used to analyze the data on SPSS 24. Two hundred and twenty-two students participated in this study. The mean empathy score of students was 101.15±13.73. The mean empathy score of the first-year dental students was the highest (104.70±15.53) followed by the scores of second year students (102.70±13.48); the third-year class had the lowest mean empathy score (98.63±11.53) that corresponded to the first year of clinical training and final year students had a score of 99.48±13.96. Dichotomization of data showed statistically significant difference between the mean empathy scores of students studying in the preclinical and clinical years. The difference in the mean empathy scores of male and female students was found to be statistically significant. The JSE-HPS was found to be reliable with Cronbach's alpha=0.77. The present study revealed a statistically significant decline in empathy levels of undergraduate dental students when the empathy levels of the students studying in the preclinical years and clinical years were compared. The JSE-HPS was found to be a reliable instrument for assessing the empathy levels of dental students.


Circulating and decidual Th17 cell levels in healthy pregnancy.
The Th1/Th2 paradigm has recently been reconstituted to include a third population, Th17 cells. It has been reported that Th2 type immunity is predominantly present in normal pregnancy. However, the level of Th17 cells during pregnancy is still unclear. We investigated the level of peripheral Th17 cells in healthy pregnancy subjects. of study To evaluate the levels of Th17 cells, we investigated the proportion of peripheral blood mononuclear cells that produced IL-17 in the first, second, and third trimester pregnancy subjects using flow cytometry. We further studied the proportion of decidual lymphocytes that produced IL-17 in early pregnant subjects. Most of the IL-17-producing cells were CD4(+) T cells. The number of circulating Th17 cells did not change during pregnancy. In a paired t-test of early normal pregnant subjects, the proportion of IL-17(+) decidual lymphocytes was significantly higher than that of peripheral blood lymphocytes. Th17 levels in peripheral blood lymphocytes do not change during normal pregnancy.


Mice deficient in NKLAM have attenuated inflammatory cytokine production in a Sendai virus pneumonia model.
Recent studies have begun to elucidate a role for E3 ubiquitin ligases as important mediators of the innate immune response. Our previous work defined a role for the ubiquitin ligase natural killer lytic-associated molecule (NKLAM/RNF19b) in mouse and human innate immunity. Here, we present novel data describing a role for NKLAM in regulating the immune response to Sendai virus (SeV), a murine model of paramyxoviral pneumonia. NKLAM expression was significantly upregulated by SeV infection. SeV-infected mice that are deficient in NKLAM demonstrated significantly less weight loss than wild type mice. In vivo, Sendai virus replication was attenuated in NKLAM-/- mice. Autophagic flux and the expression of autophagy markers LC3 and p62/SQSTM1 were also less in NKLAM-/- mice. Using flow cytometry, we observed less neutrophils and macrophages in the lungs of NKLAM-/- mice during SeV infection. Additionally, phosphorylation of STAT1 and NFκB p65 was lower in NKLAM-/- than wild type mice. The dysregulated phosphorylation profile of STAT1 and NFκB in NKLAM-/- mice correlated with decreased expression of numerous proinflammatory cytokines that are regulated by STAT1 and/or NFκB. The lack of NKLAM and the resulting attenuated immune response is favorable to NKLAM-/- mice receiving a low dose of SeV; however, at a high dose of virus, NKLAM-/- mice succumbed to the infection faster than wild type mice. In conclusion, our novel results indicate that NKLAM plays a role in regulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines during viral infection.


Hemodynamic analysis of arterial blood flow in the coiled umbilical cord.
The most significant anatomical structure of the umbilical cord is its level of coiling. The coiled geometry of the umbilical cord largely affects umbilical blood flow that is vital for fetus's well-being and normal development. In this study, we developed a computational model of steady blood flow through the coiled structure of an umbilical artery. The results showed that the driving pressure for a given blood flow rate is increasing as the number of coils in cord structure increases. The driving gradient pressures also vary with the pitch that dictates the coils' spreading. The coiled structure is resulting in interwoven streamlines along the helix and wall shear stresses (WSS) with significant spatial gradients along the cross-sectional perimeter anywhere within the helical coil. These gradients may have an adverse effect on the development of the fetus cardiovascular system in cases with over coiling (OC) or under coiling (UC) characteristics. The number of coils does not affect the distribution and levels of WSS. However, when the coils are more spread (eg, larger pitch number), the maximal WSS is significantly smaller. Cases with twisted and OC cords seem to yield very large values and gradients of WSS, which may place the fetus into high risk of abnormal development.


Revised genomic organization of FBN1 and significance for regulated gene expression.
FBN1 encodes fibrillin-1, an extracellular matrix protein that is defective in Marfan syndrome. This gene is divided into 65 exons and was previously reported to be approximately 110 kb in length. The existence of 3 exons upstream of the exon containing the putative initiating methionine left open the possibility of alternative fibrillin-1 isoforms that vary at their N-termini. Detailed examination of YACs containing human FBN1 reveal that the gene is 200 kb, almost twice as large as previously thought. Characterization of the porcine FBN1 cDNA and 5' flanking sequence demonstrates extreme conservation between the pig and the human predicted proteins and argues against the possibility of alternative amino-terminal coding sequence. These data further our understanding of the regulatory requirements for gene expression and establish a framework for recombinant expression of fibrillin-1.


Dual emissive amphiphilic carbon dots as ratiometric fluorescent probes for the determination of critical micelle concentration of surfactants.
The sensitive determination of the critical micelle concentration (CMC) of surfactants is very important for their practical application. Due to their good sensitivity and simple operation, pyrene and its derivatives have been widely used as fluorescent probes to detect the CMC. However, their virulent and poor water-soluble nature has limited their wide employment. In the present work, environmentally friendly amphiphilic carbon dots (Cdots) with dual-color emission and absolute quantum yield (PLQY) values higher than 50% have been fabricated through a solvothermal process, which could successfully serve as self-calibrative, ratiometric fluorescent probes to estimate the CMC of both non-ionic and ionic surfactants. This work not only provides a new strategy to design green ratiometric fluorescent probes for the CMC measurement of surfactants but also expands the application of Cdots in the colloidal field.


Emergency department treatment of viral gastritis using intravenous ondansetron or dexamethasone in children.
To compare the efficacy of intravenous ondansetron or dexamethasone compared with intravenous fluid therapy alone in children presenting to the emergency department with refractory vomiting from viral gastritis who had failed attempts at oral hydration. This double-blind, randomized, controlled trial was performed in a tertiary care pediatric emergency department. Children aged 6 months to 12 years presenting with more than three episodes of vomiting in the past 24 hours, mild/moderate dehydration, and failed oral hydration were included. Patients with other medical causes were excluded. Subjects were randomized to dexamethasone 1 mg/kg (15 mg maximum), ondansetron 0.15 mg/kg, or placebo (normal saline [NS], 10 mL). All subjects also received intravenous NS at 10-20 mL/kg/hr. Oral fluid tolerance was evaluated at two and four hours. Those not tolerating oral fluids at four hours were admitted. Discharged patients were evaluated at 24 and 72 hours for vomiting and repeat health care visits. The primary study outcome was hospitalization rates between the groups. Data were analyzed using chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Mantel-Haenszel test, and analysis of variance, with p < 0.05 considered significant. A total of 166 subjects were enrolled; data for analysis were available for 44 NS-treated patients, 46 ondansetron-treated patients, and 47 dexamethasone-treated patients. Hospital admission occurred in nine patients (20.5%) receiving placebo (NS alone), two patients (4.4%) receiving ondansetron, and seven patients (14.9%) receiving dexamethasone, with ondansetron significantly different from placebo (p = 0.02). Similarly, at two hours, more ondansetron-treated patients (39 [86.6%]) tolerated oral hydration than NS-treated patients (29 [67.4%]; relative risk, 1.28; 95% confidence interval = 1.02 to 1.68). There were no differences in number of mean episodes of vomiting or repeat visits to health care at 24 and 72 hours in the ondansetron, dexamethasone, or NS groups. In children with dehydration secondary to vomiting from acute viral gastritis, ondansetron with intravenous rehydration improves tolerance of oral fluids after two hours and reduces the hospital admission rate when compared with intravenous rehydration with or without dexamethasone.


Differential expression of Epstein Barr viral transcripts for two proteins (TP1 and LMP) in lymphocyte and epithelial cells.
Studies presented here show that some functions of the human herpesvirus, EBV, may be transcriptionally differentially expressed in two cell types which carry the same (C15) isolate of this virus. Of the 'latent' viral functions investigated, only one (TP2) of the episomally-specific genes that encode terminal proteins (TP1 and TP2) is found to be expressed in the C15 epithelial cell tumour environment, whereas both are transcribed--as different, but related, messengers--in a B-cell line generated with virus from the C15 tumour. The other gene investigated is that for latent membrane protein (LMP), which is found in the same region of the EBV genome but on the opposite strand. This gene, apparently transcriptionally silent in B-cell (Burkitt's) lymphomas, is expressed in the C15 epithelial tumour, as well as in other nasopharyngeal carcinomas investigated. Promoter usage in the carcinomas and B-cells appears, in some cases at least, to be cell-type specific. Expression may also be governed by methylation since a chromosomally silent region in the carcinoma (that encompassing TP1) is highly methylated on CpG residues, whereas the active region (encoding TP2 and LMP) is virtually free of such methylation. Our data suggest that there may be selective transcriptional regulation of EBV genes in the two types of cells investigated. Thus, it may be unnecessary to invoke different virus genotypes to account for the two distinct malignancies--Burkitt's lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma--associated with EBV.


Oxidant effects on rat and human lung proteinase inhibitors.
This project tested the hypothesis that inhaled oxidants could cause lung damage by inactivating the proteinase inhibitors that normally protect the lung from proteolysis. Rat alpha-1-proteinase inhibitor (alpha 1-PI)2 was purified from blood plasma, and antibodies to this inhibitor were prepared. The activity of alpha 1-PI in lung lavage fluids from rats was measured by elastase inhibition, and the immunological concentration of alpha 1-PI was quantified in an enzyme-linked immunoassay. The ratio of the amount of active alpha 1-PI relative to its immunological concentration was examined as a measure of the inhibitor's functional activity. This ratio and the ratio of the immunological concentration of alpha 1-PI to the total protein concentration were determined in lung lavage fluids from rats exposed to air, 10 parts per million (ppm) nitrogen dioxide, and diesel emissions (3.5 mg/m3 particulates) for 12, 18, and 24 months. Only diesel exposures resulted in a statistically significant reduction in the functional activity of alpha 1-PI of 30 percent (p less than 0.05). Similar studies were performed on rats exposed to nitrogen dioxide (0.5 ppm background with peaks of 1.5 ppm) and ozone (0.06 ppm background with peaks of 0.25 ppm) for 12 and 18 months. No statistically significant effects were observed in the functional activity of alpha 1-PI or its immunological concentration. In other protocols, rats were acutely exposed to 0.8 ppm or 1.2 ppm ozone for two, four, or eight hours, and to 0.5 ppm or 0.8 ppm ozone in conjunction with 8 percent carbon dioxide for two or seven hours. Although these acute exposure conditions did not reduce the functional activity of alpha 1-PI, the immunological concentration of alpha 1-PI and the elastase inhibitory activity, relative to other proteins, were significantly increased in relation to the total amount of ozone inhaled. The functional activity of alpha 1-PI also was measured in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluids of human subjects exposed to nitrogen dioxide (0.05 ppm with 2 ppm peaks, or to 1.5 ppm continuously) for three hours and to ozone (0.4 ppm) for two hours during exercise. These exposures did not result in significant changes in the functional activity of alpha 1-PI or its immunological concentration.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)


Pathogenic enterobacteria in lemurs associated with anthropogenic disturbance.
As human population density continues to increase exponentially, speeding the reduction and fragmentation of primate habitat, greater human-primate contact is inevitable, making higher rates of pathogen transmission likely. Anthropogenic effects are particularly evident in Madagascar, where a diversity of endemic lemur species are threatened by rapid habitat loss. Despite these risks, knowledge of how anthropogenic activities affect lemur exposure to pathogens is limited. To improve our understanding of this interplay, we non-invasively examined six species of wild lemurs in Ranomafana National Park for enteric bacterial pathogens commonly associated with diarrheal disease in human populations in Madagascar. Patterns of infection with Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, Shigella spp., Salmonella enterica, Vibrio cholerae, and Yersinia spp. (enterocolitica and pseudotuberculosis) were compared between lemurs inhabiting intact forest and lemurs inhabiting degraded habitat with frequent exposure to tourism and other human activity. Fecal samples acquired from humans, livestock, and rodents living near the degraded habitat were also screened for these bacteria. Remarkably, only lemurs living in disturbed areas of the park tested positive for these pathogens. Moreover, all of these pathogens were present in the human, livestock, and/or rodent populations. These data suggest that lemurs residing in forests altered or frequented by people, livestock, or peridomestic rodents, are at risk for infection by these diarrhea-causing enterobacteria and other similarly transmitted pathogens.


BDNF is expressed at the crush site after spinal cord lesion in newborn opossum (Monodelphis domestica).
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) supports the regeneration of axotomized motoneurons in vitro. To study the role of BDNF in vivo, a partial cDNA encoding the BDNF of the opossum (Monodelphis domestica) was cloned by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The sequence was highly homologous to the BDNF of several mammals and chick. The spinal cord of newborn opossums was lesioned and allowed to regenerate in its entirety in a culture system for 3 days. In response to lesion, cells within the lesion and the ventrorostral wound margin showed strong expression of opossum BDNF mRNA as detected by in situ hybridization. In contrast, no BDNF mRNA expression was detected in unlesioned CNS preparations. This suggests that BDNF plays a role in the repair of lesioned neonatal spinal cord.


Lysosome Inhibition Reduces Basal and Nutrient-Induced Fat Accumulation in Caenorhabditis elegans.
A long-term energy nutritional imbalance fundamentally causes the development of obesity and associated fat accumulation. Lysosomes, as nutrient-sensing and lipophagy centers, critically control cellular lipid catabolism in response to nutrient deprivation. However, whether lysosome activity is directly involved in nutrient-induced fat accumulation remains unclear. In this study, worm fat accumulation was induced by 1 mM glucose or 0.02 mM palmitic acid supplementation. Along with the elevation of fat accumulation, lysosomal number and acidification were also increased, suggesting that lysosome activity might be correlated with nutrient-induced fat deposition in Caenorhabditis elegans. Furthermore, treatments with the lysosomal inhibitors chloroquine and leupeptin significantly reduced basal and nutrient-induced fat accumulation in C. elegans. The knockdown of hlh-30, which is a critical gene in lysosomal biogenesis, also resulted in worm fat loss. Finally, the mutation of aak-2, daf-15, and rsks-1 showed that mTORC1 (mechanistic target of rapamycin complex-1) signaling mediated the effects of lysosomes on basal and nutrient-induced fat accumulation in C. elegans. Overall, this study reveals the previously undescribed role of lysosomes in overnutrition sensing, suggesting a new strategy for controlling body fat accumulation.


[Spontaneous rupture of an unscarred uterus during labor and epidural anesthesia].
We report a case of spontaneous rupture of unscarred uterus, during labour and under epidural analgesia in a 43 year-old patient at her third pregnancy and third delivery. The tear was vertical and took place on the left postero-lateral side of the uterus, occurring in the whole height of the lower segment and overlapping towards the uterine corpus and cervix. Analysis of medical, surgical, gynaecological and obstetrical past history has displayed no predisposing factors explaining this rare occurrence. This clinical case reminds us that spontaneous rupture is always possible even on an unscarred uterus.


Cutting edge: Plasmacytoid dendritic cells induce IL-10 production in T cells via the Delta-like-4/Notch axis.
Proinflammatory Th1 cells can produce large amounts of the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10, thereby facilitating the self-limitation of inflammatory responses. Recently, we identified the Notch pathway as a main regulator of IL-10 production by Th1 cells. In this study, we show that plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs), by means of their unique high-level expression of the Notch ligand Delta-like (Dll)-4, activate the Notch receptor on T cells to induce robust IL-10 production in vitro and in vivo. pDCs display a distinct pattern of Notch ligands compared with conventional dendritic cells, marked by the constitutive expression of Dll-4, the only Notch ligand to induce IL-10 expression in vivo, and Dll-1, while at the same time lacking the expression of Jagged. We provide a new mechanism for IL-10 induction by pDCs underlining the importance of the Dll-4/Notch axis in the regulation of inflammatory T cell responses.


[Scientific research in nursing education: Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais research groups].
This study aims to characterize the scientific production of the Research Groups in Nursing Education (RGNE) of the states of Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais, in Brazil. This is a documentary quantitative descriptive retrospective research, conducted by searching the CVs of all researchers who are part of the RGNEs in the Lattes database, followed by the search, organization, and evaluation of their scientific production according to Qualis/CAPES. The period studied was from 1995 to 2009 (the last five CAPES triennia) and included articles, books, book chapters, and full papers in conference proceedings. Results show that Rio de Janeiro has the higher number of articles in Nursing Education, highlighting the qualification of researchers at doctorate level. Both states present historic and socio-economic factors that favor scientific development.


Effects of ground surface deformability, trimming, and shoeing on quasistatic hoof loading patterns in horses.
To determine whether solar load distribution pattern on a solid nondeformable ground surface is the product of contact erosion and is the mirror image of load distribution on a deformable surface in horses. 30 clinically normal horses. Solar load distribution was compared among 25 clinically normal horses during quasistatic loading on a solid nondeformable surface and on a highly deformable surface. Changes in solar load distribution patterns were evaluated in 5 previously pasture-maintained horses housed on a flat nondeformable surface. Changes in solar load distribution created by traditional trimming and shoeing were recorded. Unshod untrimmed horses had a 4-point (12/25, 48%) or a 3-point (13/25, 52%) wall load distribution pattern on a flat solid surface. Load distribution on a deformable ground surface was principally solar and located transversely across the central region of the foot. Ground surface contact areas on solid (24.2 +/- 8.62 cm2) and deformable (69.4 +/- 22.55 cm2) surfaces were significantly different. Maintaining unshod horses on a flat nondeformable surface resulted in a loss of the 3- and 4-point loading pattern and an increase in ground surface contact area (17.9 +/- 2.77 to 39.9 +/- 12.77 cm2). Trimming increased ground surface contact area (24.2 +/- 8.60 to 45.7 +/- 14.89 cm2). In horses, the solar surface is the primary weight-loading surface, and deformability of ground surface may have a role in foot expansion during loading. Increased surface area induced by loading on deformable surfaces, trimming, and shoeing protects the foot.


Stomatal Response to Light of Solanum pennellii, Lycopersicon esculentum, and a Graft-induced Chimera.
To learn how species differences in stomatal behavior are regulated, the response of epidermal and leaf diffusive resistance to light was investigated in Lycopersicon esculentum Mill., Solanum pennellii Corr., and a periclinal chimera having an S. pennellii epidermis and an L. esculentum mesophyll that was produced from a graft of the two species. S. pennellii has about 23% fewer stomata per square millimeter than does L. esculentum, and the two species have contrasting stomatal sensitivities to light. The abaxial stomata of L. esculentum open in dimmer light and to a greater extent than the adaxial stomata. The abaxial and adaxial stomata of S. pennellii respond similarly to light incident on the adaxial epidermis and are less open at all quantum flux densities than comparable stomata of L. esculentum. The patterns of response to light of the abaxial and adaxial stomata of the chimera were practically identical to those of L. esculentum, and quite unlike those of S. pennellii. Thus, the pattern of stomatal light response in the chimera was regulated by the L. esculentum mesophyll. The reduction in stomatal frequency of the chimera, which was regulated by the epidermis of S. pennellii, contributed to the 40% difference in leaf diffusive resistance between the plants in moderate light.


An overview of the history, current strategies, and potential future treatment approaches in erectile dysfunction: a comprehensive review.
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is one of the most common urologic problems in men worldwide, with an approximately high incidence rate, significantly affecting patients' quality of life and their sexual partners. Due to the association of this disorder with essential diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes, its prevention and treatment are vital for overall human physiologic and psychological health. Along with reviewing the history of treatment and current methods, we seek new approaches to curb this issue in the future. In this review, investigations were based on the focus of each section's content or conducted on an ad hoc basis. Searches were performed in Scopus and PubMed. In recent years, many treatments for ED have been reported besides oral administration of phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors such as sildenafil and tadalafil (approved by the Food and Drug Administration). Common oral medications, intracavernous injections, herbal therapies (eg, herbal phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors), and topical/transdermal medications are routine ED treatment approaches. Moreover, some novel medications are innovative candidates for completing ED's treatment protocols: stem cell injection, low-intensity extracorporeal shock wave therapy, platelet-rich plasma injection, gene therapy, amniotic fluid matrices, rho-kinase inhibitors, melanocortin receptor antagonists, maxi-K channel activators (ie, large-conductance calcium-activated potassium channels), guanylate cyclase activators, and nitric oxide donors. Due to the importance of this complicated problem in men's society, a faster course of treatment trends toward new methods is needed to increase efficiency. Combining the mentioned treatments and attentively examining their efficacy through programmed clinical trials can be a big step toward solving this global problem.


Treatment and Postinterventional Management of a Fusiform Intracranial Aneurysm in a Professional Soccer Player: A Case Report.
While intracranial aneurysms are common lesions affecting between 1 and 5% of the general population, the prevalence in professional athletes remains unknown. The result is uncertainty and lack of guidelines on appropriate treatment of these patients. A 29-year-old professional soccer player presented in our hospital with an incidentally found intracranial aneurysm. After detailed depiction of the aneurysm and interdisciplinary discussion, endovascular treatment using a flow diverter was chosen to be the best treatment modality. Postinterventional medication consisted of dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel. The main challenge in managing the case of our patient was the combination of the dual antiplatelet treatment regime with his professional career in a contact sport. Due to lack of literature or similar reports regarding the management of professional athletes with intracranial aneurysms, the optimal treatment strategy remains unclear. Even though decisions should be made dynamically and case-adapted to each situation, developing a registry could help provide guidance and new ideas for similar cases in the future.


Meeting the challenges of micronutrient malnutrition in the developing world.
Malnutrition still remains one of the major public health challenges, particularly in developing countries. Major risk factors for undernutrition such as suboptimal breastfeeding and micronutrient deficiencies (vitamin A and zinc) are responsible for more than one-third of all under five child deaths and 11% of the global total disease burden. Several strategies have been employed to supplement micronutrients. These include education, dietary modification, food provision, supplementation and fortification either alone or in combination. Supplementation is the most widely practiced intervention while fortification can also be a potentially cost-effective public health intervention and target a larger population through a single strategy. Universal coverage with the full bundle of interventions including micronutrient provision, complementary foods, treatments for worms and diarrheal diseases and behavior change programs package could be the way forward in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Bio-fortification and agricultural interventions including home and school gardening are relatively newer strategies and require further research as they have the potential to impact nutritional status of populations at large. Effectiveness of the various interventions is well recognized; however, consensus needs to be built around approaches to scale up coverage and delivery strategies to reduce disparities and provide equitable access. Future studies should focus on evaluating various approaches to address malnutrition with a standard methodology and defined outcomes. This will help gauge the actual morbidity and mortality impacts of these specific interventions and the long-term viability of these programs. On a broader scale, strategies to address food insecurity and poverty alleviation are the key as these are complex sustainable development issues, linked to health through malnutrition, but also to sustainable economic development, environment and trade.


[Fibrous metaphyseal defect (fibrous cortical defect, non-ossifying fibroma). Paper II: differential diagnosis (author's transl)].
FMD, whether in the stage of a fibrous cortical defect or a non-ossifying fibroma, possesses very characteristic radiological appearances which rarely make it necessary to resort to biopsy. In order to avoid mistakes, it is necessary to observe strictly the known radiological features: metaphyseal position, clearcut relationships to the cortex, well defined margins, maximal size 6 to 7 cm., presence during growth, rarely observed in the upper extremity. The differential diagnosis, which needs to be considered only rarely, is discussed.


A case of unilateral vertebral artery dissection progressing in a short time period to bilateral vertebral artery dissection.
Vertebral artery dissection (VAD) is an important cause of stroke in young and middle- aged people. Bilateral occurrence of VAD is generally considered rare, but the number of reports of bilateral VAD has been increasing in recent years. In this paper, we report a case of de novo VAD on the contralateral side presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage in the acute stage of cerebral infarction due to unilateral VAD. A 52-year-old man developed sudden-onset left occipital headache, dizziness, dysphagia, and right-sided hemiparesthesia and was admitted to our hospital. Head magnetic resonance imaging on admission showed a left lateral medullary infarction due to the left VAD. At this point, the right vertebral artery was normal. However, on day 9 after onset, he suddenly presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage due to the right VAD. Emergency endovascular treatment was performed for the dissecting aneurysm of the right vertebral artery. The patient's condition improved gradually after the procedure, and he was discharged with a modified Rankin Scale score of 1. Bilateral occurrence of VAD may be more common than previously believed. Even in cases of unilateral VAD, we need to pay attention to the occurrence of de novo VAD on the contralateral side.


Exact Recursive Calculation of Circulant Permanents: A Band of Different Diagonals inside a Uniform Matrix.
We present a finite-order system of recurrence relations for the permanent of circulant matrices containing a band of k any-value diagonals on top of a uniform matrix (for k=1,2 and 3) and the method for deriving such recurrence relations, which is based on the permanents of the matrices with defects. The proposed system of linear recurrence equations with variable coefficients provides a powerful tool for the analysis of the circulant permanents, their fast, linear-time computing; and finding their asymptotics in a large-matrix-size limit. The latter problem is an open fundamental problem. Its solution would be tremendously important for a unified analysis of a wide range of the nature's ♯P-hard problems, including problems in the physics of many-body systems, critical phenomena, quantum computing, quantum field theory, theory of chaos, fractals, theory of graphs, number theory, combinatorics, cryptography, etc.