Technical note: Calving prediction in dairy cattle based on continuous measurements of ventral tail base skin temperature using supervised machine learning.
In this study, we developed a calving prediction model based on continuous measurements of ventral tail base skin temperature (ST) with supervised machine learning and evaluated the predictive ability of the model in 2 dairy farms with distinct cattle management practices. The ST data were collected at 2- or 10-min intervals from 105 and 33 pregnant cattle (mean ± standard deviation: 2.2 ± 1.8 parities) reared in farms A (freestall barn, in a temperate climate) and B (tiestall barn, in a subarctic climate), respectively. After extracting maximum hourly ST, the change in values was expressed as residual ST (rST = actual hourly ST - mean ST for the same hour on the previous 3 d) and analyzed. In both farms, rST decreased in a biphasic manner before calving. Briefly, an ambient temperature-independent gradual decrease occurred from around 36 to 16 h before calving, and an ambient temperature-dependent sharp decrease occurred from around 6 h before until calving. To make a universal calving prediction model, training data were prepared from pregnant cattle under different ambient temperatures (10 data sets were randomly selected from each of the 3 ambient temperature groups: <15°C, ≥15°C to <25°C, and ≥25°C in farm A). An hourly calving prediction model was then constructed with the training data by support vector machine based on 15 features extracted from sensing data (indicative of pre-calving rST changes) and 1 feature from non-sensor-based data (days to expected calving date). When the prediction model was applied to the data that were not part of the training process, calving within the next 24 h was predicted with sensitivities and precisions of 85.3% and 71.9% in farm A (n = 75), and 81.8% and 67.5% in farm B (n = 33), respectively. No differences were observed in means and variances of intervals from the calving alerts to actual calving between farms (12.7 ± 5.8 and 13.0 ± 5.6 h in farms A and B, respectively). Above all, a calving prediction model based on continuous measurement of ST with supervised machine learning has the potential to achieve effective calving prediction, irrespective of the rearing condition in dairy cattle.


Metabolic acidosis of chronic kidney disease and subclinical cardiovascular disease markers: Friend or foe?
The effect of chronic metabolic acidosis (MA) on cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the setting of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is largely unknown. Therefore, we aimed to study this relationship in nondialysis CKD patients.This cross-sectional, single-center study prospectively enrolled 95 clinically stable CKD patients (median age 61 (58, 65) years, 60% male, median eGFR 27 (22, 32) mL/min). Data on CKD etiology, CVD history, CVD traditional, and nontraditional risk factors were obtained. Also, markers of subclinical CVD were assessed: intima-media thickness (IMT), abdominal aortic calcifications (Kauppila score-AACs), cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), ankle-brachial index (ABI), ejection fraction, and interventricular septum thickness. Using the serum bicarbonate cutoff value of 22 mEq/L, comparisons between MA (<22 mEq/L; 43 patients) and non-MA (≥22 mEq/L; 52 patients) groups were performed.Vascular (40%), tubulointerstitial (24%), and glomerular (22%) nephropathies were the main causes of CKD. Twenty-three percent of patients had diabetes mellitus, but only 5% were considered to have diabetic nephropathy. Patients with chronic MA had lower eGFR (P < .01), higher iPTH (P = .01), higher serum phosphate (P < .01), and increased serum cholesterol (P = .04) and triglycerides (P = .01).Higher ABI (P = .04), lower IMT (P = .03), CAVI (P = .05), and AACs (P = .03) were found in patients with chronic MA.Separate binomial logistic regression models were performed using ABI (cutoff 0.9), CAVI (cutoff 9), IMT (cutoff 0.1 cm), and AACs (cutoff 1) as dependent variables. MA was used as independent variable and adjustments were made for iPTH, serum phosphate, eGFR, proteinuria, cholesterol, triglycerides, CVD score. The absence of MA was retained as an independent predictor only for the presence of AACs.In conclusion, the present study shows a potential advantageous effect of MA on vascular calcifications in predialysis CKD patients. Thus, a guideline relaxation of the serum bicarbonate target might prove to be beneficial in CKD patients at high risk of vascular calcifications. However, one should always consider the negative effects of MA. Therefore, additional research is warranted before any clear clinical recommendation.


Mandibular division trigeminal nerve injuries following primary endodontic treatment. A case series.
The aim of this study is to report a series of patients with mandibular division trigeminal nerve (V3 ) injuries secondary to endodontic treatment, evaluate presentation characteristics and identify prevention strategies. This article describes a retrospective review of patients referred to a tertiary clinic 2007-2015 with V3 injury following endodontic treatment. The sample included 12 male and 16 female patients with a mean age of 41.5 years. Sixteen cases presented following endodontic treatment of the first and second molar, premolar teeth in eight cases and canine in two cases. Fifteen patients reported immediate post-operative symptoms, in eleven cases there was a 24-48 h asymptomatic period. The average referral delay was 23.1 months. Twenty patients had permanent neuropathy. Four patients experienced resolution of symptoms within 8 weeks. V3 injury following endodontic treatment is rare but can result in permanent neuropathy and functional impairment. This can be avoided through comprehensive pre-operative radiographic examination, identification and referral of high-risk cases.


Multiple-location access in vision: evidence from illusory line motion.
Four experiments with undergraduates used illusory line motion (ILM) to contrast Z. W. Pylyshyn's (1989) FINST theory of spatial indexing with predictions made by unitary attention models. Multiple-onset stimuli were able to cause ILM at disparate, noncontiguous spatial locations. Consistent with gradient explanations of ILM and with FINST theory predictions, varying line-drawing speed and the number of stimuli revealed a decrease in ILM and a capacity limitation, respectively. Modeling analyses suggested a limit in the number of locations (5-7) that could elicit the illusion. Requiring participants to report the locations of all stimuli exhibiting illusory motion in a specified direction suggested parallel access to between 2 and 5 display locations simultaneously. The results of all 4 experiments were predicted by FINST theory but not by a broad class of unitary attention hypotheses.


Cross-sectional surveys and subtype classification of human Blastocystis isolates from four epidemiological settings in China.
The prevalence and geographical distribution of the intestinal protozoa Blastocystis in humans across China is unknown, and the relative importance of different subtypes has yet to be investigated. We assessed the community prevalence and relative frequencies of different Blastocystis subtypes in four epidemiological settings in China, i.e., Shanghai municipality, Yongjia county (Zhejiang province), Eryuan county, and Menghai county (both Yunnan province). Blastocystis infection was detected with the culture method, and the subtype was identified with polymerase chain reaction using a set of subtype-specific primers. The prevalence at the four study settings was 1.9, 5.9, 18.4, and 32.6%, respectively. People aged greater than or equal to 60 years had a higher prevalence in the former two settings, Shanghai and Yongjia, whereas the highest infection rate was found among individuals aged 10-17 years in the latter two settings, Eryuan and Menghai. A higher prevalence was found in men in the former two settings but in women in the latter two settings. Five different Blastocystis subtypes were identified from the 192 isolates. Subtype 3 was the predominant type, followed by subtype 1. In conclusion, the epidemiology of Blastocystis varies across China.


The predictive value of plasma biomarkers in discharged heart failure patients: role of galectin-3.
Over the last years a number of new biomarkers reflecting different aspects of heart failure (HF) pathophysiology have been evaluated in order to improve diagnosis and to better define prognosis of patients. Among these, Galectin 3 (Gal-3) seems particularly promising. It is a soluble beta galactoside-binding lectin produced by activated macrophages which binds and activates the fibroblasts thus leading to the deposition of collagen into the extracellular matrix and to a progressive cardiac fibrosis. Gal-3 plays also an important regulatory role in inflammatory status. Experimental studies have demonstrated that it is involved in cardiac remodeling and that it is one of the main determinants of development and progression of HF. In humans, Gal-3 plasma levels are associated with the onset of HF in apparently healthy patients and have been found being predictors of a worse prognosis in acute (AHF) as well as in chronic heart failure (CHF). Furthermore, Gal-3 serum levels are strongly correlated with renal dysfunction thus suggesting a possible role in better characterizing cardiorenal syndrome. The aim of this review was to revise the available experimental and clinical data concerning the role of Gal-3 as prognostic marker in HF.


Teaching basic shoulder ultrasonography to orthopaedic postgraduate trainees--effectiveness of a training workshop.
Ultrasound examination of the shoulder conducted by orthopaedic surgeons in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder conditions is increasingly reported. Shoulder ultrasound is not a mandatory component of postgraduate orthopaedic training in the United Kingdom. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the shoulder ultrasound teaching workshop administered to postgraduate orthopaedic surgical trainees. Orthopaedic trainees participated in a teaching workshop on shoulder ultrasound examination with particular emphasis on demonstrating the Acromioclavicluar joint (ACJ) and the long head of the biceps (LHB) in the biciptal groove. The ability of the trainees to demonstrate the ACJ and the LHB using ultrasound was then assessed. Thirty three orthopaedic trainees participated in this study. Twenty three (70%) trainees were able to demonstrate the ACJ and 14 (42%) trainees were able to demonstrate the LHB without assistance, following the ultrasound teaching workshop. The skills acquired by the trainees were independent to the year in training and previous shoulder experience (p > 0.05). Our study shows that a basic shoulder ultrasound teaching workshop can be effective in equipping postgraduate orthopaedic trainees with basic ultrasound techniques. It could potentially become part of a structured orthopaedic training programme.


Magnetization switching of multi-state magnetic structures with current-induced torques.
Spintronic devices often require the ability to locally change the magnetic configuration of ferromagnetic structures on a sub-micron scale. A promising route for achieving this goal is the use of heavy metal/ferromagnetic heterostructures where current flowing through the heavy metal layer generates field-like and anti-damping like torques on the magnetic layer. Commonly, such torques are used to switch magnets with a uniaxial anisotropy between two uniformly magnetized states. Here, we use such torques to switch magnetization in Ta/Ni0.80Fe0.20 heterostructures with uniaxial and biaxial anisotropy, where in the latter the magnetization is non-uniform. The anisotropies are induced by shape and the magnetic state is monitored using the planar Hall effect. As structures with several easy axes induced by shape can be part of a magnetic memory element, the results pave the way for multi-level magnetic memory with spin-orbit torque switching.


Cystic echinococcosis in the Berber of the Mid Atlas mountains, Morocco: new insights into the natural history of the disease in humans.
Precise knowledge of the natural history of cystic echinococcosis (CE) in humans remains somewhat arcane. The aim of the present study was to determine whether aspects of the natural history of established human infection with Echinococcus granulosus could be investigated by using a cross-sectional approach, in a community where CE was endemic. A mass ultrasound-screening survey, coupled with a questionnaire to record all previous surgical histories related to CE, was carried out amongst the primarily transhumant Berber people of the Mid Atlas mountains in Morocco. During two periods of intensive screening, of 10 days in May 2000 and 11 days in May 2001, 11,612 people, representing > 98% of the local population, were checked. One hundred and twenty six (1.1%) of the subjects--75 (59.5%) of the 6864 females investigated and 51 (40.5%) of the 4748 males--were found ultrasound-positive for CE. Overall, 14.1% of the CE cases detected were children aged 1-15 years (who made up 44% of the study population). Most (77.4%) of the ultrasound-positive subjects investigated were also found seropositive for CE. The frequency of a past history of surgery for CE increased with subject age (P = 0.024), 125 (1.1%) of the subjects being recorded as having had such surgery. The frequency of surgery for pulmonary CE was relatively constant in all age-groups, indicating that infection can occur at any time. The frequency of abdominal CE increased with age (R2 = 0.8102). Assuming that the incidence of infection remains fairly constant over time and that the longer a person spends in this endemic area the more likely it is that he or she will develop CE, then a progression from active through transitional to inactive CE should occur. The cysts observed by ultrasound in the present study were categorized, as type 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5, according to the new, standardized, ultrasound classification of CE developed by the World Health Organization (WHO). There was a clear exponential decline in the frequency of the various cyst types, from type 1 (the most frequent) to type 5 (the rarest). This decline validates the assumptions made, about the natural history of established CE, by those who developed the WHO's classification. The classification should therefore be invaluable to surgeons and clinicians, when they have to consider treatment options for patients with the various types of CE, and to policy makers trying to establish the economic costs of treating CE in endemic settings.


Physicochemical characterization of ambient PM2.5 in Tehran air and its potential cytotoxicity in human lung epithelial cells (A549).
As air pollution is a major problem in Tehran, this study aimed to investigate the physicochemical characterization of the water-soluble and organic contents of ambient PM2.5 in Tehran and determine its in vitro toxicological impact on human lung epithelial cells (A549). A total of 11 sampling stations were selected, including three categories: traffic, urban, and suburban. All sampling was carried out in the spring and summer of 2015. Ion chromatography (IC), inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), and GC-MS were used to analyze ionic compounds, heavy metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), respectively, and an ELISA reader was used for cytotoxicity analysis. The most prevalent ionic species found for all three categories was SO42-. PAH concentrations were 43.45±32.71, 50.51±37.27, and 29.13±33.29ng/m3 for traffic, urban, and suburban stations, respectively. For all sampling stations, Al and Fe had the highest values among the investigated heavy metals. Cell viability measurements, carried out using the MTT assay, showed that all three categories of samples cause cytotoxicity, although the urban station samples showed higher cytotoxicity than those from the other stations (p˂0.05). Based on the results of the present study, organic compounds and insoluble particles could be the main causes of cytotoxicity.


Soils and topography control natural disturbance rates and thereby forest structure in a lowland tropical landscape.
Tree mortality is a major control over tropical forest carbon stocks globally but the strength of associations between abiotic drivers and tree mortality within forested landscapes is poorly understood. Here, we used repeat drone photogrammetry across 1500 ha of forest in Central Panama over 5 years to quantify spatial variation in canopy disturbance rates and its predictors. We identified 11,153 canopy disturbances greater than 25 m2 in area, including treefalls, large branchfalls and standing dead trees, affecting 1.9% of area per year. Soil type, forest age and topography explained up to 46%-67% of disturbance rate variation at spatial grains of 58-64 ha, with higher rates in older forests, steeper slopes and local depressions. Furthermore, disturbance rates predicted the proportion of low canopy area across the landscape, and mean canopy height in old growth forests. Thus abiotic factors drive variation in disturbance rates and thereby forest structure at landscape scales.


The interplay of personality traits and motivation in leisure travel decision-making during the pandemic.
COVID-19 has negatively affected the travel and tourism industry and may continue to do so in the future. Therefore, hospitality businesses need to pay attention to consumer reactions, concerns, and motives for travelling in this era. This study leverages the stimulus-organism-behaviour-consequence (SOBC) model to examine psychological factors that influence Japanese travellers' intention to travel and willingness to pay premiums for safe travel by analysing data from 790 respondents. The findings of the study reveal that extraversion positively associates with introjected motivation and negatively with amotivation. Neuroticism personality type positively associates with amotivation and negatively associates with introjected motivation. Introjected motivation positively associates with perception of safe travel during COVID-19, whereas amotivation has a non-significant association with perception of safe travel during COVID-19. Perception of safe travel positively associates with intention to travel and willingness to pay premiums for safe travel. Finally, intention to travel has no effect on willingness to pay premiums for safe travel. These findings provide valuable theoretical and managerial implications.


[Imaging of myocardial perfusion and metabolism with positron emission tomography].
Positron emission tomography (PET) has been providing new information in the diagnosis and the pathophysiological assessment of heart diseases. The PET tracers commonly used in Japan are 13N-ammonia, 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) for imaging of myocardial perfusion and metabolism, respectively. Measurement of regional myocardial blood flow by 13N-ammonia dynamic PET scan and a compartment model analysis is applied to the functional estimation of coronary stenotic lesions and the detection of perfusion abnormalities in hypertrophic heart diseases, familial hyperchlesterolemia and other diseases with possible microvascular lesions. 18F-FDG is commonly used to differentiate ischemic but viable tissue from myocardial scar in coronary artery disease and also used to detect cardiac tumor and the cardiac involvement in sarcoidosis. In addition to these two tracers, 11C-acetate is now expected to provide the clinical analysis of pathophysiology of heart failure by estimating the efficiency of energy conversion of the heart into external work.


O antigen-dependent mutant of bacteriophage T5.
A T5 mutant is described which showed normal infection of Escherichia coli F but virtually no infection of cells lacking the E. coli F O antigen. This was due to very poor adsorption to the O antigen-deficient cells. Inactivation kinetics with anti-T5 serum and adsorption and desorption kinetics to receptor-deficient E. coli F cells suggested that the mutation did not affect the L-shaped tail fibers which mediate binding to the O antigen. Proof was obtained from genetic data; the structural gene for the L-shaped tail fibers mapped at a different position on the T5 chromosome than did the mutated gene. Since binding of the T5 mutant to the FhuA receptor protein was strongly inhibited by ferrichrome and since the mutation could not be crossed into phage BF23, we conclude that the mutation affects the receptor binding protein of the T5 tail.


[Semantic network technology in computer-based patient records].
Based on pathological lung cancer cases and semantic network technology, and in combination with UMLS, the article discusses the applications of semantic network technology in electron medical records, and its actualization of pathological case semantic network expression with sequence characteristics.


Current-evoked transcellular K+ flux in frog retina.
1. Changes in extracellular K+ concentration (delta[K+]o) evoked by electrical current were measured with K+-selective microelectrodes (K-ISMs) in the retina of the frog eyecup. 2. In the superfusate at 20 microns above the inner limiting membrane (ILM), current-evoked delta[K+] was a function of current polarity and strength; its amplitude decreased as the K-ISM was moved higher above the ILM. Responses were similar whether measured with K-ISMs containing the Corning exchanger or a valinomycin-based liquid membrane. No current-evoked delta[Ca2+] could be detected with Ca-selective microelectrodes (Ca-ISMs). 3. Within the retina, a complex spatiotemporal profile of current-evoked delta[K+]o was observed. Strophanthidin abolished responses in the proximal retina, but had little effect on the response in the superfusate. A blocker of K+ channels (Ba2+) depressed responses in the superfusate, but not in the proximal retina. 4. Quantitative analysis of these responses indicates a transport number for K+ of 0.18 at onset of current, and that decreases over a few seconds. In contrast, a transport number of approximately 0.01 is predicted from the expected ionic concentrations within extracellular space. 5. These findings are compatible with the delta[K+] above the ILM being due to transcellular movement of K+ through Müller cells. The results suggest that K+ spatial buffering may be particularly potent in the retina. Furthermore, determinations of tissue characteristics by passage of electrical current must take into account that at least 17% of the current does not travel through extracellular space.


Human alpha1 type IV collagen NC1 domain exhibits distinct antiangiogenic activity mediated by alpha1beta1 integrin.
Human noncollagenous domain 1 of the alpha1 chain of type IV collagen [alpha1(IV)NC1], or arresten, is derived from the carboxy terminal of type IV collagen. It was shown to inhibit angiogenesis and tumor growth in vivo; however, the mechanisms involved are not known. In the present study we demonstrate that human alpha1(IV)NC1 binds to alpha1beta1 integrin, competes with type IV collagen binding to alpha1beta1 integrin, and inhibits migration, proliferation, and tube formation by ECs. Also, alpha1(IV)NC1 pretreatment inhibited FAK/c-Raf/MEK/ERK1/2/p38 MAPK activation in ECs but had no effect on the PI3K/Akt pathway. In contrast, alpha1(IV)NC1 did not affect proliferation, migration, or the activation of FAK/c-Raf/MEK1/2/p38/ERK1 MAPK pathway in alpha1 integrin receptor knockout ECs. Consistent with this, alpha1(IV)NC1 elicited significant antiangiogenic effects and tumor growth inhibition in vivo but failed to do the same in alpha1 integrin receptor knockout mice. This suggests a highly specific, alpha1beta1 integrin-dependent antiangiogenic activity of alpha1(IV)NC1. In addition, alpha1(IV)NC1 inhibited hypoxia-induced expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1alpha and VEGF in ECs cultured on type IV collagen by inhibiting ERK1/2 and p38 activation. This unravels a hitherto unknown function of human alpha1(IV)NC1 and suggests a critical role for integrins in hypoxia and hypoxia-induced angiogenesis. Collectively, the above data indicate that alpha1(IV)NC1 is a potential therapeutic candidate for targeting tumor angiogenesis.


Lipoma in the peri-tonsillar space.
Lipomas in the head and neck region usually occur in the immediate subcutaneous tissue, and only rarely in the upper aerodigestive tract. We report here a case of a 58-year-old female with a lipoma in the peri-tonsillar space. The tumour originated from the left peri-tonsillar space over the palate tonsil and partly protruded into the oral cavity. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) showed not only the accurate location of the tumour but also suggested its pathology. To our knowledge, a lipoma in the peri-tonsillar space is quite rare and MRI is useful in its diagnosis.


Sodwanone and yardenone triterpenes from a South African species of the marine sponge Axinella inhibit hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) activation in both breast and prostate tumor cells.
Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) is a transcription factor that promotes tumor cell adaptation and survival under hypoxic conditions. HIF-1 is currently recognized as an important molecular target for anticancer drug discovery. A T47D breast tumor cell-based reporter assay was used to evaluate the NCI Open Repository of marine invertebrates and algae lipid extracts for HIF-1 inhibitory activity. Bioassay-guided fractionation and isolation of an active extract from Axinella sp. yielded seven new sodwanone triterpenoids [3-epi-sodwanone K (1), 3-epi-sodwanone K 3-acetate (2), 10,11-dihydrosodwanone B (4), sodwanones T-W (3, 7, 8, 9)], the new yardenone triterpene 12R-hydroxyyardenone (10), and the previously reported compounds sodwanone A (5), sodwanone B (6), and yardenone (11). The structures and relative configurations of these Axinella metabolites were determined spectroscopically. The absolute configuration of 1 was determined by the modified Mosher ester procedure. Sodwanone V (8) inhibited both hypoxia-induced and iron chelator (1,10-phenanthroline)-induced HIF-1 activation in T47D breast tumor cells (IC50 15 microM), and 8 was the only sodwanone that inhibited HIF-1 activation in PC-3 prostate tumor cells (IC50 15 microM). Compounds 1, 3, 4, and 5 inhibited hypoxia-induced HIF-1 activation in T47D cells (IC50 values 20-25 microM). Compound 2 was cytotoxic to T47D cells (IC50 22 microM), and 8 showed cytotoxicity to MDA-MB-231 breast tumor cells (IC50 23 microM).


Recombinant human erythropoietin increases frataxin protein expression without increasing mRNA expression.
Friedreich's ataxia is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disease that is due to the loss of function of the frataxin protein. The molecular basis of this disease is still a matter of debate and treatments have so far focused on managing symptoms. Drugs that can increase the amount of frataxin protein offer a possible therapy for the disease. One such drug is recombinant human erythropoietin (rhu-EPO). Here, we report the effects of rhu-EPO on frataxin mRNA and protein in primary fibroblast cell cultures derived from Friedreich's ataxia patients. We observed a slight but significant increase in the amount of frataxin protein. Interestingly, we did not observe any increase in the messenger RNA expression at any of the times and doses tested, suggesting that the regulatory effects of rhu-EPO on the frataxin protein was at the post-translational level. These findings could help the evaluation of the treatment with erythropoietin as a potential therapeutic agent for Friedreich's ataxia.


Parathyroid Hormone Causes Endothelial Dysfunction by Inducing Mitochondrial ROS and Specific Oxidative Signal Transduction Modifications.
Vitamin D deficiency contributes to cardiovascular risk (CVR), with hyperparathyroidism advocated as a putative mechanism. Indeed, mounting evidence supports the hypothesis that parathyroid hormone (PTH) impairs endothelial function, even though mechanisms are not fully elucidated. The present study was designed to verify in vitro the ability of sustained exposure to PTH to cause endothelial dysfunction, exploring the underlying mechanisms. In bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAECs), we evaluated the effects of PTH exposure (0.1 nM-24 hours) on both endothelial response to vasodilators, such as bradykinin (Bk (30 nM)) and acetylcholine (Ach (1 μM)), and angiogenic competence. Pretreatment with PTH impaired endothelial response to Bk but not to Ach, in terms of cytosolic calcium fluxes and NO production. In order to explore the underlying mechanisms, we assessed the production of total and mitochondrial ROS (tROS and mROS, respectively) in response to PTH (at 1 and 3 hours). PTH increased ROS generation, to an extent high enough to determine oxidation of Bk receptor B2. Conversely, the oxidation levels of M1 and M3 Ach receptors were not affected by PTH. A mROS selective scavenger (MitoTEMPO (5 μM)) restored the endothelial responsiveness to Bk while the well-known antioxidant properties of vitamin D (100 nM) failed to counteract PTH-mediated oxidative stress. PTH determined mitochondrial calcium fluxes ([Ca2+]mt) and the mitochondrial calcium uniporter inhibitor Ru360 (10 μM) reduced mROS production and prevented the PTH-mediated endothelial dysfunction. Angiogenic competence was evaluated as tubular formations in the endothelial Matrigel assay and showed a significant impairment in PTH-pretreated cells (0.1 nM-24 hours), despite the increase in VEGF transcriptional levels. VEGFR2 oxidation occurred in response to PTH, suggesting that even the impairment of angiogenesis was due to the ROS surge. These results indicate that PTH affects endothelial function through ROS production, driven by mitochondrial calcium overload. PTH-induced oxidative stress might act as signaling modifiers, altering specific pathways (Bk and VEGF) and preserving others (Ach).


Compliance with a restricted antimicrobial agent policy in a university hospital.
Compliance with a policy for use of antimicrobial agents that requires both oral approval from the infectious diseases service and completion of a restricted antimicrobial agent use form was evaluated in a 950-bed teaching hospital. The charts of patients for whom a restricted antimicrobial agent was ordered during four one-week periods between January 1987 and April 1987 were audited to determine whether completed use forms had accompanied orders for restricted antimicrobial agents. The validity of the information on completed forms was determined by comparing the information on the form with notes in patients' charts and through discussions with infectious diseases physicians. Two infectious diseases physician reviewers evaluated the appropriateness of prescribing of piperacillin and ceftazidime by analyzing data collected by pharmacists. Forms were submitted with 132 of 154 orders written for restricted agents; incomplete forms were received and accepted by pharmacists for 39 courses of therapy. The infectious disease service had not been contacted to approve use of a restricted agent in 25 cases. Eight of the 48 courses of piperacillin or ceftazidime therapy were deemed inappropriate despite initial infectious diseases approval. Compliance with a formal antimicrobial agent restriction policy at this institution has been good, but periodic re-education and follow-up monitoring appear to be necessary to ensure optimal use of restricted agents.


"Throwing a rock at their armored tank": civilian authority and military tobacco control.
Tobacco use is a major cause of chronic disease, disability and death among military personnel and veterans. However, civilian public health and tobacco control advocates have been relatively silent on the issue. Research on the tobacco industry shows a long history of interference in military tobacco policy through relationships with the United States (US) Congress. The military cannot autonomously implement tobacco control, but is subject to Congressional oversight. Thus, the primary obstacles to effective tobacco control in the military are Congressional political opposition and tobacco industry influence, and by extension, a lack of civilian awareness and support in the policy arena. As part of a larger project to explore the topic of civilian support for military tobacco control, we analyzed data from focus groups with public health professionals to better understand their sense of agency and authority in regards to military tobacco control. Researchers conducted 4 focus groups with a total of 36 public health professionals at key conferences for those working in public health and tobacco control. Data were coded and the research team developed an interpretive account that captured patterns and variations in the data. Public health and tobacco control participants shared a sense of futility regarding civilian efforts to engage in military tobacco control. This stemmed from feeling ignorant of military culture and structure, identifying powerful discourses that opposed tobacco control, particularly in a military context, and the very-real presence of the tobacco industry lobby throughout the policy process. A strong public health voice on military tobacco control might serve to begin problematizing the tobacco industry's influence in the military policy arena. As the military moves to institute stronger tobacco control policy, public health and tobacco control professionals should work to engage with and aid its efforts from the outside. Only with such civilian side support can the goal of a tobacco free military be realized.


Association between Cheiloscopic Patterns and ABO Blood Groups among South Indian Population.
Human beings have few characteristics that are unique from others. Lip prints are one of such feature. They are not changed throughout the life and are not influenced by injuries, diseases, or environmental changes. According to the various antigen-antibody reactions in the bloodstream, different individuals have specific blood groups. To study the distribution of lip print patterns among individuals with different ABO and Rh blood groups and also to know the relation between their characters and blood groups. In the present study, lip prints were collected randomly from 85 individuals, and their blood group matching was performed. This is to identify the most common lip print type and to know any association between lip print types and blood groups. Tsuchihashi's classification of lip prints was used to compare with the ABO and Rh blood grouping systems. It was observed that in individuals with B+, A+, and O- blood groups, predominant pattern was Type IV and individuals having blood group O+ and AB+ common lip print pattern was Type II. This study showed strong association between lip print patterns and ABO blood groups as some blood groups were not included in statistical analysis; further studies including larger sample are essential to substantiate the results. Correlating lip print with blood group helps in identification of the suspects. Along with lip prints, another biological record that remains unchanged throughout the lifetime of a person is the blood group. Determining the blood group of a person from the samples obtained at the site of crime and also recovering lip prints from site can help identify a person.


Incidence and nature of human tuberculosis due to bovine tubercle bacilli in South-East England: 1977-1987.
A total of 201 new cases of tuberculosis due to bovine tubercle bacilli was confirmed in South-East England between 1977 and 1987 inclusive. This represents about 1% of all cases of tuberculosis in this region. Most cases occurred amongst older individuals of indigenous white British origin, although some younger patients of Southern European and Indian subcontinent ethnic origin were also diagnosed. The lung was the most frequent site of disease, followed by the genito-urinary tract. In view of the known risk of transmission of disease from man to cattle via the respiratory and urinary tracts, continued surveillance of this relatively uncommon form of tuberculosis is still indicated.


Carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in U.S. milk: Insight into production process.
Stable isotope analysis (SIA), a potential method of verifying the geographic origin and production method of dairy products, has not been applied to United States (U.S.) dairy samples on a national scale. To determine the potential of carbon and nitrogen SIA in authenticity assessment of U.S. dairy products, we analyzed a geographically representative collection of conventional milk samples to determine isotopic variations with (1) Purchase Location and (2) Macronutrient Content. A total of 136 milk samples spanning five commercially available varieties (3.25% [i.e., 'whole'], 2%, 1%, 0% [i.e., 'skim'] and 1% chocolate) were collected from randomly selected counties across the U.S. as part of the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA's) National Food and Nutrient Analysis program. δ13 C and δ15 N values of bulk samples determined via elemental analysis/isotope ratio mass spectrometry (EA/IRMS) were used to assess the contribution of fat content, added sugar content and census-designated region of collection to isotopic variations within the dataset. There was a negative linear relationship between fat content and δ13 C values, with average milk δ13 C values decreasing by 0.33‰ for each 8.75% increase in dry weight (1% wet weight) fat content. The average δ13 C value of flavored 1% chocolate milk samples, which contain an additional 12 g of added sugar, was 2.05‰ higher than that of 1% unflavored milk (-16.47‰ for chocolate milk vs -18.52‰ for unflavored milk). When controlling for macronutrient content, milk samples collected in West region supermarkets possessed significantly lower δ13 C values than samples collected from Midwest, South, and Northeast regions. δ15 N values did not vary with macronutrient content or region of collection. Carbon stable isotope ratios in U.S. milk samples varied with macronutrient content and region of purchase, suggesting that SIA can provide insight into production processes within the U.S. dairy industry, with potential applications in national food adulteration and authentication efforts.


Subdural hygroma: a rare complication of spinal anesthesia.
We describe a patient with frontal hygroma after spinal anesthesia--a rare complication. This condition should be considered in patients after spinal anesthesia with persisting orthostatic headache. Risk factors include ventriculo-peritoneal shunt or brain atrophy caused by old age.


Oil core microcapsules by inverse gelation technique.
A promising technique for oil encapsulation in Ca-alginate capsules by inverse gelation was proposed by Abang et al. This method consists of emulsifying calcium chloride solution in oil and then adding it dropwise in an alginate solution to produce Ca-alginate capsules. Spherical capsules with diameters around 3 mm were produced by this technique, however the production of smaller capsules was not demonstrated. The objective of this study is to propose a new method of oil encapsulation in a Ca-alginate membrane by inverse gelation. The optimisation of the method leads to microcapsules with diameters around 500 μm. In a search of microcapsules with improved diffusion characteristics, the size reduction is an essential factor to broaden the applications in food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals areas. This work contributes to a better understanding of the inverse gelation technique and allows the production of microcapsules with a well-defined shell-core structure.


RECENT ADVANCES IN RADIOTHERAPY MODALITIES FOR PROSTATE CANCER.
Radiotherapy is the attractive treatment option for prostate cancer and has a clear role in all stages of the disease. Over the last decade, advances in technology, imaging capabilities, and improved radiobiological understanding have deeply transformed radiotherapy for prostate cancer, allowing dose escalation and wide adoption of hypofractionation. Furthermore, the integration of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and improved physical precision of dose delivery have given an impetus to additionally target intraprostatic tumor lesions, previously agnostic to conventional radiotherapy target definition concept. The emerging data from randomized clinical trials and observation research show that ultra-hypofractionation is a safe approach while further follow-up is needed to assess its efficacy compared to standard fractionation. There is an ongoing uncertainty surrounding true alpha/beta ratio for prostate cancer since hypofractionation has so far failed to yield theoretically envisioned superior biochemical control outcomes. Finally, recently published randomized trial settled ongoing controversy regarding the role of elective pelvic lymph node radiotherapy in patients with high-risk prostate cancer, showing clear benefit when pelvic nodes were treated to 50 Gy. The role of partial gland dose escalation/tumor boosting is evolving, and more data is needed to adopt this approach in routine clinical care. Going forward, molecular imaging will be crucial to assess biology of the disease, predict a response potentially, and optimally personalize radiotherapy treatment decisions. In this narrative review, we critically analyzed the published literature and provided practical summary of recent prostate radiotherapy advances for busy clinicians.


Associative structure of fear memory after basolateral amygdala lesions in rats.
The authors have recently demonstrated that rats with basolateral amygdala (BLA) lesions acquire Pavlovian fear conditioning after overtraining. However, it is not known whether the associative basis of Pavlovian fear memory acquired by rats with BLA lesions is similar to that of intact rats. Associations are typically formed between the conditional (CS) and unconditional (US) stimuli (stimulus-stimulus; S-S), although it is possible for stimuli to enter into association with the responses they produce (stimulus-response; S-R). Indeed, the central nucleus of the amygdala, which is essential for fear conditioning in rats with BLA lesions, may mediate S-R associations in some Pavlovian tasks. The authors therefore used a postconditioning US inflation procedure (i.e., exposure to intense footshock USs) to assess the contribution of S-S associations to fear conditioning after overtraining in rats with BLA lesions. In Experiment 1, intact rats that were overtrained and later inflated displayed elevated freezing levels when tested, indicating that S-S associations contribute to overtrained fear memories. Interestingly, neither neurotoxic BLA lesions nor temporary inactivation of the BLA during overtraining prevented the inflation effect (Experiment 2 and 3, respectively). These results reveal that S-S associations support Pavlovian fear memories after overtraining in both intact rats and rats with BLA lesions, and imply that the central nucleus of the amygdala encodes CS-US associations during fear conditioning.


Antidiabetic drugs and oxidized low-density lipoprotein: A review of anti-atherosclerotic mechanisms.
Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of mortality globally. Atherosclerosis is an important step towards different types of cardiovascular disease. The role of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) in the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis has been thoroughly investigated in recent years. Moreover, clinical trials have established that diabetic patients are at a greater risk of developing atherosclerotic plaques. Hence, we aimed to review the clinical and experimental impacts of various classes of antidiabetic drugs on the circulating levels of oxLDL. Metformin, pioglitazone, and dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors were clinically associated with a suppressive effect on oxLDL in patients with impaired glucose tolerance. However, there is an insufficient number of studies that have clinically evaluated the relationship between oxLDL and newer agents such as agonists of glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor or inhibitors of sodium-glucose transport protein 2. Next, we attempted to explore the multitude of mechanisms that antidiabetic agents exert to counter the undesirable effects of oxLDL in macrophages, endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells. In general, antidiabetic drugs decrease the uptake of oxLDL by vascular cells and reduce subsequent inflammatory signaling, which prevents macrophage adhesion and infiltration. Moreover, these agents suppress the oxLDL-induced transformation of macrophages into foam cells by either inhibiting oxLDL entrance, or by facilitating its efflux. Thus, the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties of antidiabetic agents abrogate changes induced by oxLDL, which can be extremely beneficial in controlling atherosclerosis in diabetic patients.


Phosphonium Modification Leads to Ultrapermeable Antibacterial Polyamide Composite Membranes with Unreduced Thickness.
Water transport rate in network membranes is inversely correlated to thickness, thus superior permeance is achievable with ultrathin membranes prepared by complicated methods circumventing nanofilm weakness and defects. Conferring ultrahigh permeance to easily prepared thicker membranes remains challenging. Here, a tetrakis(hydroxymethyl) phosphonium chloride (THPC) monomer is discovered that enables straightforward modification of polyamide composite membranes. Water permeance of the modified membrane is ≈6 times improved, give rising to permeability (permeance × thickness) one magnitude higher than state-of-the-art polymer nanofiltration membranes. Meanwhile, the membrane exhibits good rejection (RNa2SO4 = 98%) and antibacterial properties under crossflow conditions. THPC modification not only improves membrane hydrophilicity, but also creates additional angstrom-scale channels in polyamide membranes for unimpeded transport of water. This unique mechanism provides a paradigm shift in facile preparation of ultrapermeable membranes with unreduced thickness for clean water and desalination.


Intentional Asphyxiation Using Baby Wipes: A Case Report and Review of the Literature.
Abusive suffocation with foreign bodies is an uncommon form of child abuse. We present the case of a 2-month-old infant with colic who was forcibly suffocated with a baby wipe by a female babysitter. He presented to the emergency department in respiratory distress, and the foreign body was removed in the operating room by otorhinolaryngology. He was found to have intraoral lacerations and a left diaphyseal humeral fracture. To our knowledge, there is only 1 other collection of case reports of abusive suffocation with baby wipes. This case highlights the importance of considering abuse in cases of oral injury and foreign body aspiration in pediatric patients.


Inhaled fluticasone reduces bronchial responsiveness and airway inflammation in cats with mild chronic bronchitis.
This study investigated the effect of inhaled fluticasone on lower airway inflammation and bronchial responsiveness (BR) to inhaled carbachol in cats with very mild, chronic bronchitis (n = 5) that were compared with healthy cats serving as controls (n = 6). Chest radiographs, BR tests performed non-invasively by barometric whole body plethysmography (BWBP) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) were performed before and after treatment. BR was quantified by calculating the concentration of carbachol inducing bronchoconstriction (C-Penh300%), defined as a 300% increase of baseline Penh, an index of bronchoconstriction obtained by BWBP. BAL fluid was analyzed cytologically and the oxidant marker 8-iso-PGF2alpha was determined. At test 1, healthy cats and cats with bronchitis were untreated, whereas for test 2 inhalant fluticasone (250 microg once daily) was administrated for 2 consecutive weeks to cats with bronchitis. Control cats remained untreated. Inhaled fluticasone induced a significant increase in C-Penh300% and a significant decrease of BAL fluid total cells, macrophages, neutrophils and 8-iso-PGF2alpha in cats with bronchitis, whilst untreated control cats did not show significant changes over time. This study shows that a 2-week fluticasone treatment significantly reduced lower airway inflammation in very mild bronchitis. BR could be successfully monitored in cats using BWPB and decreased significantly in response to inhaled fluticasone. 8-Iso-PGF2alpha in BAL fluid was responsive to treatment and appeared as a sensitive biomarker of lower airway inflammation in cats.


Adverse pregnancy outcomes and future risk of heart failure.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women. Women with history of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) have approximately two-fold risk of future CVD, but until recently the association with future heart failure (HF) was unclear. Here, we summarize evidence for associations of APOs with HF, potential underlying mechanisms, and future directions for clinical translation. Women with history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) have roughly two-fold risk of future HF compared with other parous women even after accounting for interval development of coronary artery disease. The HDPs portend heightened risk of HF with both reduced and preserved ejection fraction. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and other APOs such as preterm delivery, small-for-gestational-age delivery, and placental abruption may also confer additional risk for HF development. Possible underlying mechanisms linking APOs to HF include shared upstream risk factors and genetics, accelerated development of cardiometabolic risk factors postpartum, persistent endothelial and microvascular dysfunction, and impaired natriuretic peptide signaling. History of APOs, including HDPs and GDM, confer increased risk for development of HF years after delivery. Further research is needed to define strategies to optimize prepregnancy and postpartum cardiovascular health toward HF prevention.


Autosomal dominant congenital spinal muscular atrophy--a possible developmental deficiency of motor neurones?
We describe a kindred with an unusual congenital lower motor neuron disorder with significant but static muscle weakness predominantly affecting the lower limbs. The proband had talipes equinovarus and congenital hip contractures and did not walk until 19 months of age. Lower-extremity predominant, primarily proximal weakness was identified on assessment at three years. Over a 20 year follow-up there has been no clinical progression. The proband has a four-year-old daughter with very similar clinical findings. Electromyography and muscle biopsy suggest reduced numbers of giant normal duration motor units with little evidence of denervation or reinnervation. Dominant congenital spinal muscular atrophy predominantly affecting the lower limbs is rarely described. It is possible that the disorder is due to a congenital deficiency of motor neurons.


Targeted endothelial gene deletion of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 protects mice during septic shock.
TREM-1 (Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid cells-1) is an immunoreceptor expressed on neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages whose role is to amplify the inflammatory response driven by Toll-Like Receptors engagement. The pharmacological inhibition of TREM-1 confers protection in several pre-clinical models of acute inflammation. In this study, we aimed to decipher the role of TREM-1 on the endothelium. We first showed by qRT-PCR, flow cytometry and confocal microscopy that TREM-1 was expressed in human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells as well as in mouse vasculature (aorta, mesenteric artery, and pulmonary vessels). TREM-1 expression was upregulated following septic insult. We next observed that TREM-1 engagement impaired mouse vascular reactivity and promoted vascular inflammation. The pharmacological inhibition of TREM-1 (using the synthetic inhibitory peptide LR12) prevented these disorders both in vitro and in vivo. We generated endothelium-conditional Trem-1 ko mice (EndoTREM-1-/-) and submitted them to a caecal ligation and puncture-induced septic shock. As compared with wild-type littermates, targeted endothelial Trem-1 deletion conferred protection during septic shock in modulating inflammatory cells mobilization and activation, in restoring vasoreactivity, and in improving the survival. We reported that TREM-1 is expressed and inducible in endothelial cells and plays a direct role in vascular inflammation and dysfunction. The targeted deletion of endothelial Trem-1 conferred protection during septic shock in modulating inflammatory cells mobilization and activation, restoring vasoreactivity, and improving survival. The effect of TREM-1 on vascular tone, while impressive, deserves further investigations including the design of endothelium-specific TREM-1 inhibitors.


In vitro measurements of sunscreen protection.
The ultimate goal of in vitro measurements of sunscreen protection is replacement of invasive tests on human volunteer subjects. This requires validation of methods against a measurable in vivo benchmark, such as SPF. SPF is measured in the laboratory using artificial light sources that do not completely simulate sunlight. Once a method for in vitro measurements is validated, sunscreen protection against measured solar spectra may be achieved. Critical aspects of in vitro measurements of sun protection include the ability of substrates to emulate human skin, performance of instrumentation and use of correct algorithms to account for changes in sunscreen absorbance during irradiation. We have developed a dose-response model that accounts for changes in absorbance and facilitates evaluation of broad spectrum protection, as well as SPF, and provides an index of sunscreen photostability.


Psychopathological and sociodemographic features in treatment-resistant unipolar depression versus bipolar depression: a comparative study.
Some authors have hypothesized that Treatment-Resistant Unipolar Depression (TRD-UP) should be considered within the bipolar spectrum disorders and that hidden bipolarity may be a risk factor for TRD-UP. However, there are neither studies comparing clinical and sociodemographic data of patients with TRD-UP versus Bipolar (BP) disorders nor are there any examining differences versus Bipolar type I (BP-I) and Bipolar type II (BP-II). Charts analysis was conducted on 194 patients followed at the Mood Disorders Clinic of the McGill University Health Center. Sociodemographic, clinical features and depression scales were collected from patients meeting DSM-IV criteria for TRD-UP (n = 100) and BP (n = 94). Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine clinical predictors independently associated with the two disorders. Compared to BP, TRD-UP patients exhibited greater severity of depression, prevalence of anxiety and panic disorders, melancholic features, Cluster-C personality disorders, later onset of depression and fewer hospitalizations. Binary logistic regression indicated that higher comorbidity with anxiety disorders, higher depression scale scores and lower global assessment of functioning (GAF) scores, and lower number of hospitalizations and psychotherapies differentiated TRD-UP from BP patients. We also found that the rate of unemployment and the number of hospitalizations for depression was higher in BP-I than in BP-II, while the rate of suicide attempts was lower in BP-I than in BP-II depressed patients. These results suggest that TRD-UP constitutes a distinct psychopathological condition and not necessarily a prodromal state of BP depression.


ING1 represses transcription by direct DNA binding and through effects on p53.
The ING family of proteins is involved in the regulation of diverse processes ranging from cell cycle and cellular senescence to apoptosis. These effects are most likely through activation of acetylation-dependent pathways that ultimately alter gene expression. Despite reports linking ING to p53 activation, the molecular basis of how ING activates p53 function has not been elucidated. In this study, we found that a subset of ING family members strongly repressed human alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) promoter activity but stimulated the p21(WAF1) promoter in parallel experiments in the same cell type, similar to the effects of p53. The p47(ING1a) isoform also repressed AFP promoter activity, but in contrast to other ING isoforms, it repressed the p21(WAF1) promoter. p47(ING3) up-regulated p21(WAF1) promoter activity, but it did not have any effect on the AFP promoter. ING1b and ING2 also repressed the AFP promoter in Hep3B p53-null cell lines, and p53 coexpression enhanced this transcriptional repression. Suppression of AFP gene transcription by ING was strongly dependent on AT-motifs that bind to the hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 (HNF1) transcription factor. Indeed, electrophoretic mobility shift assays confirmed that HNF1 binds to AT-motifs, but we found, surprisingly, that the ING1 complexes binding to these AT-motifs were devoid of HNF1 protein. Both ING1 and p53 were able to suppress AFP transcription and cause p21 induction; hSIR2, a negative regulator of the p53 protein, showed the opposite effects on the AFP promoter and, like HDAC1, repressed p21 promoter activity. In addition, we found that p33(ING1b) physically interacts with hSIR2, reverses its ability to induce the AFP promoter, and induces acetylation of p53 residues at Lys(373) and/or Lys(382). These findings provide novel evidence that p33(ING1b) represses AFP transcription by at least two mechanisms, one of which includes p53. The first is by binding to the AT-motif and excluding HNF1 binding while possibly targeting HAT activity to promoter regions, and the second is by increasing the levels of active, acetylated p53 via binding and inhibiting the ability of hSIR2 to deacetylate p53 protein.


Belgian recommendations for the management of anemia in patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
Anemia is the most common extraintestinal manifestation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) which, in most cases, results from an absolute or functional iron deficiency. Although anemia and iron deficiency may have a dramatic impact on the quality of life of IBD patients, they are underdiagnosed and undertreated. This paper provides evidence-based consensus guidelines and practical treatment algorithms that are directly applicable to the Belgian situation. In this way, the Belgian IBD research and development Group (BIRD) aims to increase awareness and knowledge among gastroenterologists in order to improve the management of anemia and iron deficiency in their IBD patients.


Problems with balloon-tipped stylet pacemaker catheters.
Balloon-tipped stylet pacemaker catheters have two intraluminal stylet-related limitations that warrant extreme caution in their use. The first limitation involves manipulation of the stylet inside the catheter and appears to be a consequence of the angulation made by the catheter in the right atrium; the second limitation is a complication involving actual in vivo fracture of the stylet and is presumably related to tapering of the stylet at a point of stress in the right atrium. Although these pacemaker catheters have distinct advantages, the problem arising from their use cannot be ignored. Until modification can be made to resolve these problems, this catheter must be used with extreme caution.


[Correlation between serum adenosine deaminase, peripheral T lymphocyte subsets and syndrome types of traditional Chinese medicine in liver-cirrhosis patients].
Serum adenosine deaminase (ADA) of 74 liver cirrhosis patients and 100 healthy subjects as control were examined with improved Martinek microassay and peripheral T lymphocyte subsets of 38 liver cirrhosis patients and 60 healthy subjects studied by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) for exploring the relationship between them and syndrome types of TCM. The result showed that level of ADA of liver cirrhosis patients was higher than that of control (P < 0.01) and increased in following order: the type of Liver-energy Depression and Spleen Deficiency, that of Heat-Stagnation and Blood Stasis and that of Yin-Deficiency and Microvessel Obstruction. The difference of serum ADA among the types were significant (P < 0.01). The result also showed that OKT8 of liver cirrhosis patients was higher, the ratio of OKT4/OKT8 was lower than the healthy subjects (P < 0.05-0.01), but the difference among the types were not significant (P > 0.05). Serum ADA seemed to be one of the reference indexes in differentiating syndrome types of TCM, determining the patient's condition and prognosis.


Cobalt Ferrite Surface-Modified Carbon Nanotube Fibers as an Efficient and Flexible Electrode for Overall Electrochemical Water Splitting Reactions.
One of the most practical and environmentally friendly ways to deal with the energy crises and global warming is to produce hydrogen as clean fuel by splitting water. The central obstacle for electrochemical water splitting is the use of expensive metal-based catalysts. For electrocatalytic hydrogen production, it is essential to fabricate an efficient catalyst for the counterpart oxygen evolution reaction (OER), which is a four-electron-transfer sluggish process. Here in this study, we have successfully fabricated cobalt-based ferrite nanoparticles over the surface of carbon nanotube fiber (CNTF) that was utilized as flexible anode materials for the OER and overall electrochemical water splitting reactions. Scanning electron microscopy images with elemental mapping showed the growth of nanoparticles over CNTF, while electrochemical characterization exhibited excellent electrocatalytic performance. Linear sweep voltammetry revealed the reduced overpotential value (260 mV@η10mAcm-2) with a small Tafel slope of 149 mV dec-1. Boosted electrochemical double layer capacitance (0.87 mF cm-2) for the modified electrode also reflects the higher surface area as compared to pristine CNTF (Cdl = 0.022 mF cm-2). Charge transfer resistance for the surface-modified CNTF showed the lower diameter in the Nyquist plot and was consequently associated with the better Faradaic process at the electrode/electrolyte interface. Overall, the as-fabricated electrode could be a promising alternative for the efficient electrochemical water splitting reaction as compared to expensive metal-based electrocatalysts.


Letrozole induced changes in bone mineral properties and mechanical functions of laying hens.
Bone volumes and quality are related to their hormone levels in laying hens. In this study, we investigated letrozole (LZ) induced effects on the physicochemical properties of cortical bone in laying hens. After 9-wk LZ treatment, we observed that LZ could decrease estrogen level in laying hens. As a result, both the plasma tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase and bone Gla protein activities were suppressed significantly. In addition, carbonate substitution was inhibited significantly in humerus and femur confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Meanwhile, the mineral density and yield load capacities of humerus and femur were improved. This study demonstrated that the high crystallinity and low carbonate substitution were tightly correlated with the relatively enhanced mechanical properties. Moreover, it elucidated biochemical mechanisms of estrogen in regulating mineralogical and mechanical properties of bones in laying hens.


Local recurrence after amputation for osteosarcoma.
Two hundred and forty-eight high-grade central osteosarcomata were treated by amputation or disarticulation; in 5.2 per cent the tumour recurred at the amputation site. The following causes may be responsible for local recurrence: the level of the amputation is too close to the tumour; there is an unrecognised intramedullary extension of the tumour; during a previous block resection tumour cells may have been seeded in the soft tissues; the primary tumour was too extensive even for radical surgery; "skip" metastases may have been present; iatrogenic tumour implantation may have occurred while a biopsy was being performed during the course of an amputation. Treatment of the primary osteosarcoma should take all these possibilities into account. In our experience adjuvant chemotherapy has not significantly changed the frequency of local recurrences which should be treated by radical operation or, if this is not possible, by irradiation; chemotherapy may be used as an adjuvant. The prognosis of local recurrences is bad.


miR-193a as a potential mediator of WT-1/synaptopodin in the renoprotective effect of Losartan on diabetic kidney.
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the most common complication of diabetic patients, and has become a global healthcare problem. In this study, we used diabetic mice to evaluate the effect of Losartan on DN, in which the experimental animals were divided into three groups: non-diabetic mice (db/m group), untreated-diabetic mice (db/db group), and Losartan-treated diabetic mice (db/db-losartan). Next, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were used to detect Wilms tumor protein 1 (WT-1) and synaptopodin expression, respectively. Protein levels of WT-1, synaptopodin, claudin1, and Pax-2 were assessed by Western blotting and real-time PCR. The miR-193a mRNA levels were quantitated by real-time PCR. The results showed that albuminuria was increased in diabetic mice compared with control animals and was significantly ameliorated by treatment with Losartan. In addition, Losartan significantly upregulated the immunopositive cell numbers of WT-1, the expression of WT-1 and synaptopodin in renal tissue. By contrast, expression of claudin1 and Pax-2 in renal tissue were decreased in db/db-losartan group. Besides, expression of miR-193a was decreased significantly in db/db-losartan group compared with the untreated diabetic group. Thus, Losartan has renoprotective effects on the control of tissue damage possibly by inhibiting the expression of miR-193a, thereby promoting the repair of podocyte injury in mice with DN.


Remotely Triggered Liquefaction of Hydrogel Materials.
Adaptable behavior such as triggered disintegration affords a broad scope and utility for (bio)materials in diverse applications in materials science and engineering. The impact of such materials continues to grow due to the increased importance of environmental considerations as well as the increased use of implants in medical practices. However, examples of such materials are still few. In this work, we engineer triggered liquefaction of hydrogel biomaterials in response to internal, localized heating, mediated by near-infrared light as external stimulus. This adaptable behavior is engineered into the readily available physical hydrogels based on poly(vinyl alcohol), using gold nanoparticles or an organic photothermal dye as heat generators. Upon laser light irradiation, engineered biomaterials underwent liquefaction within seconds. Pulsed laser light irradiation afforded controlled, on-demand release of the incorporated cargo, successful for small molecules as well as proteins (enzymes) in their biofunctional form.


Tick-borne encephalitis: Clinical findings and prognosis in adults.
In middle and eastern European countries, tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is one of the most important human infections of the central nervous system. TBE virus (TBEV) is mainly transmitted by tick bites and in very rare cases by unpasteurized milk. The incubation period is on an average 7-10 days. A biphasic course of illness with a prodromal period occurs in about two third of patients. In European countries, TBE presents as meningitis in about 50 % of patients, as meningoencephalitis in 40 %, and as meningoencephalomyelitis in 10 %. The severity of TBE increases with age, in children and adolescents, meningitis is the predominant form of the disease. Long-term prognosis is unfavorable in about 40-50 % of patients who suffer from sequelae for months to years, mainly in terms of pareses, ataxia, and other gait disturbances. No specific treatment for TBE is known so far, but TBE can be successfully prevented by active immunization.


Identification of steroid-sensitive gene-1/Ccdc80 as a JAK2-binding protein.
The tyrosine kinase Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) is activated by many cytokine receptors, including receptors for GH, leptin, and erythropoietin. However, very few proteins have been identified as binding partners for JAK2. Using a yeast 2-hybrid screen, we identified steroid-sensitive gene-1 (SSG1)/coiled-coil domain-containing protein 80 (Ccdc80) as a JAK2-binding partner. We demonstrate that Ccdc80 preferentially binds activated, tyrosyl-phosphorylated JAK2 but not kinase-inactive JAK2 (K882E) in both yeast and mammalian systems. Ccdc80 is tyrosyl phosphorylated in the presence of JAK2. The binding of Ccdc80 to JAK2 occurs via 1 or more of the 3 DUDES/SRPX (DRO1-URB-DRS-Equarin-SRPUL/sushi repeat containing protein, x-linked) domain 5 domains of Ccdc80. Mutagenesis of the second DUDES domain suggests that the N-terminal third of the DUDES domain is sufficient for JAK2 binding. Ccdc80 does not alter the kinase activity of JAK2. However, Ccdc80 increases GH-dependent phosphorylation of Stat (signal transducer and activator of transcription) 5b on Tyr699 and substantially enhances both basal and GH-dependent phosphorylation/activation of Stat3 on Tyr705. Furthermore, Ccdc80 belongs to the group of proteins that function both in the intracellular compartment and are secreted. Secreted Ccdc80 associates with the extracellular matrix and is also found in the medium. A substantial portion of the Ccdc80 detected in the medium is cleaved. Finally, consistent with the DUDES domain serving as a JAK2-binding domain, we also demonstrate that another protein that contains a DUDES domain, SRPX2, binds preferentially to the activated tyrosyl-phosphorylated form of JAK2.


[Preparation and characterization of podophyllotoxin-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine proliposome].
To prepare podophyllotoxin-dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (PPT-DPPC) proliposomes (PPT-DPPC-PL) for improvement of the stability of PPT-DPPC liposome. Freeze-drying method was used to prepare PPT-DPPC-PL, and the particle morphology, size range, encapsulation efficiency and stability of PPT-DPPC liposome were investigated. After hydration of PPT-DPPC-PL, PPT-DPPC liposome appeared multivesicular under electron microscope and the particles were distributed homogeneously with an average particle size of 1.45+/-0.38 microm. The encapsulation efficiency of PPT was 72.3%, and after storage at 4 to 40 degrees Celsius; for 1 to 6 months, the proliposome remained stable. The prepared PPT-DPPC-PL particles by freeze-drying method are evenly distributed. The preparation method is relatively simple with higher embedding ratio and better stability.


Glomerular and tubular function in non-oliguric acute renal failure.
Glomerular and tubular function were evaluated in 30 non-oliguric patients with increasing azotemia following open heart surgery. Fractional clearances (theta) of test solutes relative to that of inulin were determined. In 16 patients, theta dextran (radius 22 to 30 A) exceeded unity, a finding attributed to inulin backleak through necrotic tubules. These patients were classified as having acute renal failure; 14 subsequently required dialysis. In the remaining patients (N = 14), theta dextran was normal. These patients were considered to have prerenal failure; all recovered spontaneously. clearance of inulin (Cin) was lower in acute renal failure than in prerenal failure (12 +/- 2 versus 18 +/- 2 ml/min/1.73 m2; p less than 0.025). The apparent difference in glomerular filtration rate when Cin is used as an index was abolished, however, when Cin in acute renal failure was corrected for tubule backleak of inulin. In acute renal failure, fractional clearance of p-aminohippurate (theta PAH) was 7.1 +/- 1.0, and fractional excretion of potassium (FEk) was 160 +/- 18 percent. These findings strongly suggest that secretory ability in both proximal and terminal tubule augments, respectively, is preserved in acute renal failure. Compared with prerenal failure, the urine-to-plasma inulin ratio was lower (U/Pin = 10 +/- 1 versus 25 +/- 4; p less than 0.005) and FENa was higher (FENa = 5.1 +/- 1.5 versus 0.5 +/- 1.0 percent; p less than 0.01) in acute renal failure.


Multi-detector row CT of the left atrium and pulmonary veins before radio-frequency catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation.
Radio-frequency catheter ablation (RFCA) of the distal pulmonary veins and posterior left atrium is increasingly being used to treat recurrent or refractory atrial fibrillation that resists pharmacologic therapy or cardioversion. Successful RFCA of atrial fibrillation requires resolution of abnormal rhythms while minimizing complications and can be achieved with precise, preprocedural, three-dimensional (3D) anatomic delineation of the target, the atriopulmonary venous junction. Three-dimensional multi-detector row computed tomography (CT) of the pulmonary veins and left atrium provides the necessary anatomic information for successful RFCA, including (a) the number, location, and angulation of pulmonary veins and their ostial branches unobscured by adjacent cardiac and vascular anatomy, and (b) left atrial volume. The 3D multi-detector row CT scanning and postprocessing techniques used for pre-RFCA planning are straightforward. Radiologists must not only understand these techniques but must also be familiar with atrial fibrillation and the technical considerations and complications associated with RFCA of this condition. In addition, radiologists must be familiar with anatomic variants of the left atrium and distal pulmonary veins and understand the importance of these variants to the referring cardiac interventional electrophysiologist.


Effects of beta-adrenergic blockers on Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity in guinea-pig heart preparations: comparison with ouabain.
The effects of the beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists carazolol, celiprolol, indenolol and propranolol on myocardial Mg(2+)-dependent, Na(+)- and K(+)-activated adenosine triphosphatase (Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, EC 220.127.116.11) were compared with those of ouabain in guinea-pig heart preparations. All four drugs inhibited the enzyme activity in a concentration-dependent fashion similar to that shown by ouabain. Celiprolol exerted inhibitory actions (5-95%) in the concentration range of 0.5-3000 microM, while propranolol showed similar activity in the range of 100-4000 microM. Carazolol and indenolol exhibited intermediary effects. Their inhibitory effective ranges were 95-4000 and 10-5000 microM, respectively. The concentrations for half maximal inhibition of the enzyme activity were 0.74 +/- 0.12 mM for carazolol, 0.62 +/- 0.09 mM for celiprolol, 0.80 +/- 0.11 mM for indenolol and 1.03 +/- 0.19 mM for propranolol. Accordingly, the rank order of their potencies exhibited the following trend: celiprolol greater than carazolol greater than indenolol greater than propranolol. The present results show that these drugs exhibit inhibitory actions on the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase activity, which may be suggested as a possible biochemical basis for their proarrhythmic effects.


Human histologic and electromicroscopic analysis with synthetic peptide enhanced hydroxyapatite in the maxillary sinus elevation procedure: a case report.
Elevation of the sinus floor to augment the alveolar process to place implants is an effective treatment. The traditional use of autologous bone implies a secondary donor site and the related morbidity, and, hence, is not readily accepted by many patients. The new graft material, synthetic peptide enhanced hydroxyapatite (PepGen P-15 Flow, Ceramed Dental, Lakewood, CO, DENTSPLY Int.,York, PA), shows the ease in use and ability to generate new bone growth in the sinus elevation procedure. Histologic and electromicroscopic analysis was performed on the new bone formed after the application.


[Chloroquine enhances cisplatin-induced apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells by inhibiting autophagy via upregulating miR129].
To investigate the role of miR129 in mediating the effect of chloroquine to enhance cisplatin- induced apoptosis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells (HNE1). MTT assay was used to detect the viability of HNE1 cells treated with different concentrations of cisplatin. Colony formation of HNE1 cells treated with cisplatin and chloroquine, alone or in combination, was observed using crystal violet staining. BALB/C unde mice were inoculated with HNE1 cells and randomly divided into 4 groups with 6 mice in each group. The mice received intraperitoneal injections of cisplatin and chloroquine, alone or in combination once every 3 days for 4 consecutive weeks, and the tumor growth was observed in each group. The expression of miR129 in HNE1 cells treated with chloroquine, cisplatin, or both was detected with qPCR. The effects of miR129 suppression with a miR129 inhibitor on the expressions of autophagy related proteins p62, LC3B, Beclin1 and the drug-resistant related protein P-glycoprotein (P-gp) were examined using Western blotting in HNE1 cells treated with chloroquine, cisplatin, or both; the changes in cell apoptosis were detected Annexin V/PI double staining. Chloroquine combined with cisplatin significantly inhibited HNE1 cell proliferation in vitro and the growth of HNE1 cell-derived tumor in nude mice as compared with cisplatin alone (P < 0.01). In cultured HNE1 cells, inhibition of the expression of miR129 significantly promoted autophagy and up-regulated P-gp expression (P < 0.01); Chloroquine obviously inhibited cisplatin-induced autophagy and up-regulated the expression of miR129 in HNE1 cells (P < 0.01). Transfection of the cells with the miR129 inhibitor abolished the inhibitory effect of chloroquine on cisplatin-induced autophagy, and significantly increased the cell survival rate (P < 0.05) and lower the cell apoptotic rate (P < 0.01) after combined treatment with chloroquine and cisplatin. Chloroquine enhances the pro-apoptotic effect of cisplatin by up-regulating miR129 to inhibit autophagy and drug resistance in HNE1 cells.


Normal levels of soluble CD4 in sera from patients with juvenile chronic arthritis.
Sera from a group of patients with juvenile chronic arthritis (JCA) were tested for soluble CD4 (sCD4). In most cases normal levels of the molecule were detected independent of disease activity. Similar results were obtained when sera from a population of adult rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients were analyzed. Immunophenotypic studies of circulating mononuclear cells from seven JCA patients with active disease showed that T cells did not express activation markers. Finally, preliminary experiments showed that sCD4 levels were high in the synovial fluids from 3 RA patients as compared with paired serum determinations.


The Slow Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy Is Associated with Transient Protection of Retinal Vessels from Death.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the reason that diabetic retinopathy (DR) is delayed from the onset of diabetes (DM) in diabetic mice. To this end, we tested the hypothesis that the deleterious effects of DM are initially tolerated because endogenous antioxidative defense is elevated and thereby confers resistance to oxidative stress-induced death. We found that this was indeed the case in both type 1 DM (T1D) and type 2 DM (T2D) mouse models. The retinal expression of antioxidant defense genes was increased soon after the onset of DM. In addition, ischemia/oxidative stress caused less death in the retinal vasculature of DM versus non-DM mice. Further investigation with T1D mice revealed that protection was transient; it waned as the duration of DM was prolonged. Finally, a loss of protection was associated with the manifestation of both neural and vascular abnormalities that are diagnostic of DR in mice. These observations demonstrate that DM can transiently activate protection from oxidative stress, which is a plausible explanation for the delay in the development of DR from the onset of DM.


Role of adjuvant radiotherapy in recurrent earlobe keloids.
Earlobe keloids are commonly encountered in dermatological practice and often prove to be recurrent, despite a variety of treatment options. Recurrent keloids, particularly in the head and neck, are associated with unsightly cosmetic consequences, particularly in younger patients. There is no consensus regarding the optimal treatment for recurrent keloids. However, re-excision accompanied by adjuvant treatment is often recommended. Low-dose fractionated radiotherapy (12 Gy in three fractions) delivered within 24 hours of excision remains an effective adjuvant option, although due consideration needs to be given to the small risk of radiation-induced malignancy. We aim to discuss the role of adjuvant radiotherapy for recurrent keloids and present the relevant literature.


Acute Graft Versus Host Disease After Kidney-Pancreas Transplant.
Acute graft vs. host disease (aGVHD) results from newly transplanted donor immune cells recognizing recipient tissues as foreign, leading to end-organ damage. Diagnosing aGVHD typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, histological examination, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. Although typically associated with allogeneic stem cells transplant and less frequently with liver or small bowel transplants, solid organ transplant GVHD (SOT-GVHD) associated with kidney-pancreas transplants is exceedingly rare. Our patient presented with pancytopenia unexplained by typical causes. He developed classical aGVHD findings of fever, diarrhea, rash, and abnormal liver tests. Our case underscores the importance of keeping a broad differential when evaluating solid organ transplant patients.


Transporter Engineering in Microbial Cell Factory Boosts Biomanufacturing Capacity.
Microbial cell factories (MCFs) are typical and widely used platforms in biomanufacturing for designing and constructing synthesis pathways of target compounds in microorganisms. In MCFs, transporter engineering is especially significant for improving the biomanufacturing efficiency and capacity through enhancing substrate absorption, promoting intracellular mass transfer of intermediate metabolites, and improving transmembrane export of target products. This review discusses the current methods and strategies of mining and characterizing suitable transporters and presents the cases of transporter engineering in the production of various chemicals in MCFs.


P-Cu2O/n-ZnO nanowires on ITO glass for solar cells.
In this paper, the fabrication and characterization of a heterojunction solar cell based on p-Cu2O/n-ZnO nanowires on ITO glass are presented. ZnO aligned nanocrystal seed layer is firstly prepared by RF magnetron sputtering technique, and then vertical ZnO nanowire arrays with an acicular crystal structure are obtained by using a chemical bath deposition processing. The results indicate that the ZnO nanowires with a diameter of about 50 nm and 500 nm in length can be easily obtained. The absorption and transmittance of the ZnO nanowires are studied. It is also noted that the Cu2O can fill well into the space between ZnO nanowires by an electrodeposition process. Furthermore, the effect of the Cu2O orientation on the cell performance is also presented.


Validating a framework for participatory ergonomics (the PEF).
Participatory ergonomics is reported in an increasing number of case studies, but there is little evidence of emerging supportive theory and relatively little generic advice or guidance. The paper describes an effort to provide clarity and organization to the field of participatory ergonomics. A framework has been developed to define a range of different participatory ergonomics initiatives, establishing a number of levels at which to operate. This participatory ergonomics framework (the PEF) was validated through retrospective description of seven independently conducted case studies and through peer evaluation. The exercise suggests that the PEF can be used as a first basis to produce practical guidance on participatory ergonomics programmes.


A novel gene, RSRC2, inhibits cell proliferation and affects survival in esophageal cancer patients.
In Japan and China, esophageal cancer is common and more than 90% of esophageal cancers are squamous cell carcinoma. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) shows a poor prognosis, but the mechanism of ESCC and target genes for treatment remains unclear. We searched for genes related to ESCC, and identified a novel gene, FLJ11021, which was designated arginine/serine-rich coiled-coil 2 (RSRC2). We sought to determine the role of RSRC2 in the proliferation of esophageal cell lines and to examine the relationship between RSRC2 and clinicopathologic factors and ESCC prognosis. Expression of RSRC2 was quantified by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in 70 primary ESCCs and paired noncancerous esophageal mucosa. To determine the role of RSRC2 in ESCC cell proliferation, we used vector-based transfection and small interfering RNA methods. Our results show that RSRC2mRNA levels in all ESCC cell lines (TE1-15, excluding TE7) were lower than those in a human esophageal squamous epithelial cell line (Het-1A). Cell proliferation of an ESCC cell line was inhibited by overexpression of RSRC2, while reduced expression was accompanied by tumor progression. RSRC2 expression levels were significantly correlated with depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, lymphatic invasion and vascular invasion. Moreover, ESCC patients with low RSRC2mRNA expression had significantly shorter post-operative survival time than those with high expression. In vitro study revealed that RSRC2 might play a role in cell proliferation. Our study demonstrated that RSRC2 expression may be a novel tumor suppressor of esophageal cancer cell growth and a prognostic factor in ESCC.


Histidine-Mediated Ion Specific Effects Enable Salt Tolerance of a Pore-Forming Marine Antimicrobial Peptide.
Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) preferentially permeate prokaryotic membranes via electrostatic binding and membrane remodeling. Such action is drastically suppressed by high salt due to increased electrostatic screening, thus it is puzzling how marine AMPs can possibly work. We examine as a model system, piscidin-1, a histidine-rich marine AMP, and show that ion-histidine interactions play unanticipated roles in membrane remodeling at high salt: Histidines can simultaneously hydrogen-bond to a phosphate and coordinate with an alkali metal ion to neutralize phosphate charge, thereby facilitating multidentate bonds to lipid headgroups in order to generate saddle-splay curvature, a prerequisite to pore formation. A comparison among Na+ , K+ , and Cs+ indicates that histidine-mediated salt tolerance is ion specific. We conclude that histidine plays a unique role in enabling protein/peptide-membrane interactions that occur in marine or other high-salt environment.


"Short term surgical complications after subthalamic deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease: does old age matter?".
Patients aged 65 years and older are not traditionally considered optimal candidates for subthalamic deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS), mainly for their presumed increased incidence of surgical complications. The aim of this study was to assess STN-DBS surgery safety in relation to age. A total of 107 consecutive patients undergoing bilateral STN-DBS at our institution between 2002 and 2014 were retrospectively stratified according to age in two groups (Young group < 65 years old; Elderly group ≥ 65 years old;). Rate of short-term surgical complications (within 90 days) was reviewed and compared between the two groups. Pre-operative baseline data were comparable between the two groups. The 90-days post-operative mortality rate was 0%. Overall incidence of complications related to surgery was 6,54%. In the Elderly group we observed 3 post-operative intra-cerebral haematomas (7,89%), 1 requiring urgent surgical evacuation. In the Young group we observed 2 post-operative asymptomatic intra-cerebral haematomas (2,89%) and 2 wound infections (2,89%), 1 requiring system removal. No others surgical complications were noticed in both groups. Chronological age ≥ 65 years old should not be considered alone as exclusion criteria to STN-DBS surgery.


Effects of early repeated hemoperfusion combined with hemodialysis on the prognosis of patients with paraquat poisoning.
To investigate the effect of early, repeated hemoperfusion in conjunction with hemodialysis on the health status, blood-gas indices, and prognosis of patients with paraquat (PQ) poisoning. In this retrospective study, clinical data of 149 PQ-poisoned patients treated at Xianyang First People's Hospital between January 2019 and January 2022 were analysed. Sixty-two patients who received conventional treatment coupled with early, repeated hemoperfusion were designated as the control group. The remaining 87 patients, who were subjected to additional hemodialysis on the basis of the control group, were designated in the experimental group. A comparison was made between the two groups regarding the changes in liver function, renal function, and blood-gas indices before and after the treatment. Three-month survival outcomes of both groups were analyzed using Cox regression, with survival curves drawn for different prognostic factors. The experimental group exhibited significantly lower levels of indirect bilirubin (IBiL) and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (ALT) after the treatment compared to the control group (all P < 0.05), as well as markedly lower levels of total bilirubin (TBil), direct bilirubin (DBil), glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), urea nitrogen (BUN), and creatinine (Cr) (all P < 0.01). The experimental group also demonstrated significantly improved arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) and PaO2/inspired oxygen (FIO2) ratios, along with reduced arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure (PaCO2) after the treatment (all P < 0.05). Moreover, a significantly higher three-month survival rate was observed in the experimental group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). According to Cox regression analysis, blood purification mode, age, urine PQ concentration upon admission, the timing of initial gastric lavage and bowl cleanse, and the timing of initial blood purification were identified as independent factors affecting the patients' 90-day prognosis. Early, repeated hemoperfusion coupled with hemodialysis significantly improves the blood-gas indices and liver and kidney function in patients with PQ poisoning, while also extending their short-term survival.


Microbial Degradation and Valorization of Plastic Wastes.
A growing accumulation of plastic wastes has become a severe environmental and social issue. It is urgent to develop innovative approaches for the disposal of plastic wastes. In recent years, reports on biodegradation of synthetic plastics by microorganisms or enzymes have sprung up, and these offer a possibility to develop biological treatment technology for plastic wastes. In this review, we have comprehensively summarized the microorganisms and enzymes that are able to degrade a variety of generally used synthetic plastics, such as polyethylene (PE), polystyrene (PS), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PUR), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). In addition, we have highlighted the microbial metabolic pathways for plastic depolymerization products and the current attempts toward utilization of such products as feedstocks for microbial production of chemicals with high value. Taken together, these findings will contribute to building a conception of bio-upcycling plastic wastes by connecting the biodegradation of plastic wastes to the biosynthesis of valuable chemicals in microorganisms. Last, but not least, we have discussed the challenges toward microbial degradation and valorization of plastic wastes.


Solid-State Transformation of Amorphous Calcium Carbonate to Aragonite Captured by CryoTEM.
Early-stage reaction mechanisms for aragonite-promoting systems are relatively unknown compared to the more thermodynamically stable calcium carbonate polymorph, calcite. Using cryoTEM and SEM, the early reaction stages taking place during aragonite formation were identified in a highly supersaturated solution using an alcohol-water solvent, and an overall particle attachment growth mechanism was described for the system. In vitro evidence is provided for the solid-state transformation of amorphous calcium carbonate to aragonite, demonstrating the co-existence of both amorphous and crystalline material within the same aragonite needle. This supports non-classical formation of aragonite within both a synthetic and biological context.


Multiscale image registration.
A multiscale image registration technique is presented for the registration of medical images that contain significant levels of noise. An overview of the medical image registration problem is presented, and various registration techniques are discussed. Experiments using mean squares, normalized correlation, and mutual information optimal linear registration are presented that determine the noise levels at which registration using these techniques fails. Further experiments in which classical denoising algorithms are applied prior to registration are presented, and it is shown that registration fails in this case for significantly high levels of noise, as well. The hierarchical multiscale image decomposition of E. Tadmor, S. Nezzar, and L. Vese [20] is presented, and accurate registration of noisy images is achieved by obtaining a hierarchical multiscale decomposition of the images and registering the resulting components. This approach enables successful registration of images that contain noise levels well beyond the level at which ordinary optimal linear registration fails. Image registration experiments demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the multiscale registration technique, and for all noise levels, the multiscale technique is as accurate as or more accurate than ordinary registration techniques.


Systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve as a manifestation of heart transplant rejection.
A 65-year-old white man with acute cardiac allograft rejection had a diagnosis made on the basis of clinical presentation and endomyocardial biopsy. The echocardiogram showed systolic anterior motion of the mitral valve during the episode of rejection. There was no systolic anterior motion on the echocardiogram that was done either before or after the episode of rejection.


Paravertebral extramedulary hematopoiesis arising with osteopetrosis tarda.
Extramedullary hematopoiesis predominantly occurs in the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes with hemolytic anemia. Occurrence with osteopetrosis tarda in the paravertebral region is very rare. We discuss the examination of the third known case of paravertebral extramedullary hematopoiesis arising with osteopetrosis tarda.


Dietary NiCl₂ causes G₂/M cell cycle arrest in the broiler's kidney.
Here we showed that dietary NiCl2 in excess of 300 mg/kg caused the G2/M cell cycle arrest and the reduction of cell proportion at S phase. The G2/M cell cycle arrest was accompanied by up-regulation of phosphorylated ataxia telangiectasia mutated (p-ATM), p53, p-Chk1, p-Chk2, p21 protein expression and ATM, p53, p21, Chk1, Chk2 mRNA expression, and down-regulation of p-cdc25C, cdc2, cyclinB and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein expression and the cdc25, cdc2, cyclinB, PCNA mRNA expression.


ASRM standard embryo transfer protocol template: a committee opinion.
Standardization improves performance and safety. A template for standardizing the embryo transfer procedure is presented here with 12 basic steps supported by published scientific literature and a survey of common practice of SART programs; it can be used by ART practices to model their own standard protocol.


Oral contraceptive patient information. A questionnaire study of attitudes, knowledge, and preferred information sources.
A questionnaire was designed to assess attitudes, knowledge, and views and sources of drug information on oral contraceptives, with particular attention to the role of the patient-oriented package insert. An analysis of 828 completed questionnaires shows that many women are apprehensive about the safety of oral contraceptives. The impact of the patient-oriented oral contraceptive insert on the women surveyed appears to be positive. The present labeling is read and found useful by most oral-contraceptive users. Patients were variably informed about the correct use and side effects discussed in current labeling, suggesting a need for improved transmission of important drug information. Patients preferred information from health professionals and printed sources over media sources. Balanced label information about risks of oral contraceptives should be made available to improve the likelihood of sound risk-benefit judgments.