[Increase in the wealth of emergency patients at the Central Hospital of Luxembourg. Who are they? Why do the come?].
As in all European countries, the CHL's Emergency Department is faced with a constant increase in the number of patients. The demographic patient profile in the 2001 survey shows a majority of young males with traumatic problems. Mostly evoked reasons for the increase are the lack of availability of general practitioners and patients' low level of information about the competences of GPs. The article discusses possible solutions to the bottlenecks in Emergency Departments.


Crassulacean acid metabolism in Isoetes bolanderi in high elevation oligotrophic lakes.
Isoetes bolanderi dominates the littoral flora of Siesta (elevation 2,440 m) and Ellery (2,905 m) lakes in the Sierra Nevada Range of California, USA. Both lakes are sparesly vegetated and I. bolanderi maintained aboveground oven dry weight of 30-50 m-22 through most of the 1981 summer growing season. Plants at the higher elevation Ellery Lake were half as large as plants at Siesta Lake and had substantially more biomass in corms. Titratable acidity levels in Isoetes leaves showed a diurnal fluctuation <50 μeq g1 fresh weight early in the season at the highest elevation site but this increased to ∼300 μeq g1 FW by mid-summer; starch and chlorophyll levels likewise increased in the leaves over this time. Throughout the season the magnitude of the diurnal acid change was comparable inIsoetes from both lakes but the dynamics of daytime deacidification were not. Averaged over the season, total daytime deacidification at Ellery Lake was 65% complete by noon whereas at Siesta Lake it was only 22% complete by noon. It is suggested that this may be related to the fact that Siesta Lake was more acidic and thus more carbon was in the form of free CO2. In both lakes water chemistry showed no consistent diurnal fluctuation in pH or free CO2 though total inorganic carbon levels were at the extreme low end for aquatic habitats. The studies reported here suggest that under extremely low inorganic carbon levels there may be selection for nighttime CO2 assimilation. Consistent with this hypothesis is the observation that emergent I. bolanderi plants, resulting from fluctuating water levels, initiated leaves with stomata(unlike adjacent submerged plants) and, although these leaves had substantially higher chlorophyll levels, they showed an order of magnitude less acid fluctuation than submerged leaves.


2,3,7,8-TCDD equivalence and mutagenic activity associated with PM10 from three urban locations in New Zealand.
Ambient particulate matter (PM(10)) in urban centres varies depending on emission sources, geography, demography, and meteorology. Hence physical (PM(10), wind speed, rainfall, temperature), chemical (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PAH), and toxicological (Ames Test, H4IIE EROD Assay) analyses were done on daily PM(10) (approximately 1640 m(3)/day) collected from three New Zealand urban sites where winter emissions were predominantly due to domestic home heating. Daily PM(10) levels ranged between 9.7 and 20.8 in summer and between 21.8 and 61.0 microg/m(3) in winter. Daily PAH concentrations were 0.5, 0.45, and 1.5 ng/m(3) in summer and 52.1, 128.9, and 5.8 ng/m(3) in winter at sites Christchurch, Alexandra and Dunedin, respectively. During winter, 74% of PM(10) extracts from all three sites showed significant mutagenicity in the Ames Test (TA 98, -S9), whereas approximately 25% of the daily PM(10) was mutagenic in summer. Benzo[a]pyrene and BaP carcinogenic equivalence concentrations during winter were strongly correlated to both mutagenicity and TCDD-like activity at two sites. Daily levels of TCDD toxicity equivalence concentrations ranged from 0.5 to 3.6 pg TCDD/m(3) air in summer and from 0.3 to 4009 pg TCDD/m(3) air in winter. Chemically and biologically derived TCDD toxicity equivalent concentrations were significantly correlated in all study locations indicating that PAH may represent most of the TCDD-like activity present in the PM(10).


TCellXTalk facilitates the detection of co-modified peptides for the study of protein post-translational modification cross-talk in T cells.
Protein function is regulated by post-translational modifications (PTMs) that may act individually or interact with others in a phenomenon termed PTM cross-talk. Multiple databases have been dedicated to PTMs, including recent initiatives oriented towards the in silico prediction of PTM interactions. The study of PTM cross-talk ultimately requires experimental evidence about whether certain PTMs coexist in a single protein molecule. However, available resources do not assist researchers in the experimental detection of co-modified peptides. Herein, we present TCellXTalk, a comprehensive database of phosphorylation, ubiquitination and acetylation sites in human T cells that supports the experimental detection of co-modified peptides using targeted or directed mass spectrometry. We demonstrate the efficacy of TCellXTalk and the strategy presented here in a proof of concept experiment that enabled the identification and quantification of 15 co-modified (phosphorylated and ubiquitinated) peptides from CD3 proteins of the T-cell receptor complex. To our knowledge, these are the first co-modified peptide sequences described in this widely studied cell type. Furthermore, quantitative data showed distinct dynamics for co-modified peptides upon T cell activation, demonstrating differential regulation of co-occurring PTMs in this biological context. Overall, TCellXTalk facilitates the experimental detection of co-modified peptides in human T cells and puts forward a novel and generic strategy for the study of PTM cross-talk. TCellXTalk is available at https://www.tcellxtalk.org. Source Code is available at https://bitbucket.org/lp-csic-uab/tcellxtalk. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.


Sustainable valorization approaches on crustacean wastes for the extraction of chitin, bioactive compounds and their applications - A review.
The unscientific disposal of the most abundant crustacean wastes, especially those derived from marine sources, affects both the economy and the environment. Strategic waste collection and management is the need of the hour. Sustainable valorization approaches have played a crucial role in solving those issues as well as generating wealth from waste. The shellfishery wastes are rich in valuable bioactive compounds such as chitin, chitosan, minerals, carotenoids, lipids, and other amino acid derivatives. These value-added components possessed pleiotropic applications in different sectors viz., food, nutraceutical, cosmeceutical, agro-industrial, healthcare, and pharmaceutical sectors. The manuscript covers the recent status, scope of shellfishery management, and different bioactive compounds obtained from crustacean wastes. In addition, both sustainable and conventional routes of valorization approaches were discussed with their merits and demerits along with their combinations. The utilization of nano and microtechnology was also included in the discussion, as they have become prominent research areas in recent years. More importantly, the future perspectives of crustacean waste management and other potential valorization approaches that can be implemented on a large scale.


Speech disturbs face scanning in 6-month-old infants who develop autism spectrum disorder.
From birth, infants show a preference for the faces, gaze, and voices of others. In individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) these biases seem to be disturbed. The source of these disturbances is not well-understood, but recent efforts have shown that the spontaneous deployment of attention to social targets might be atypical as early as 6 months of age. The nature of this atypical behavior and the conditions under which it arises are currently unknown. We used eye-tracking to examine the gaze patterns of 6-month-old infants (n = 99) at high risk (n = 57) and low risk (n = 42) for developing ASD as they viewed faces that were: 1) still; 2) moving and expressing positive affect; or 3) speaking. Clinical outcomes were determined through a comprehensive assessment at the age of 3 years. The scanning patterns of infants later diagnosed with ASD were compared with infants without an ASD outcome. Infants who later developed ASD spent less time looking at the presented scenes in general than other infants. When these infants looked at faces, their looking toward the inner features of faces decreased compared with the other groups only when the presented face was speaking. Our study suggests that infants later diagnosed with ASD have difficulties regulating attention to complex social scenes. It also suggests that the presence of speech might uniquely disturb the attention of infants who later develop ASD at a critical developmental point when other infants are acquiring language and learning about their social world.


Destruction of hepatic mixed-function oxygenase parameters by CCl4 in rats following acute treatment with chlordecone, Mirex, and phenobarbital.
Previous work has established the marked potentiation of CCl4 hepatoxicity by prior exposure to chlordecone (CD). This study was conducted to determine if prior exposure to CD results in enhancement of CCl4-induced destruction of the hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxygenase (MFO) system. Male Sprague-Dawley rats received a single oral dose of CD (10 mg/kg) or corn oil vehicle alone (1 ml/kg) 24 hr prior to a single ip injection of CCl4 (0-100 microliter/kg). Mirex (M; 10 mg/kg) and phenobarbital (PB; 80 mg/kg/day for two days) were used as negative and positive controls respectively for the potentiation of CCl4 hepatotoxicity. Hepatotoxicity was evaluated 24 hrs after CCl4 administration by elevations of three serum enzymes (GPT, GOT, and ICD). The key hepatic microsomal MFO parameters measured were microsomal protein, cytochrome P-450 content, glucose-6-phosphatase (G-6-Pase), and aminopyrine demethylase (APD). As previously demonstrated using a subchronic dietary pretreatment protocol, CD potentiated CCl4 hepatotoxicity over a range of CCl4 doses to a greater extent than PB or M, as judged by elevations in serum enzymes. PB caused the greatest increase in total P-450 content and the greatest increase in CCl4-mediated destruction of microsomal protein and APD activity. M caused the least destruction of total hepatic cytochrome P-450, despite the same level of cytochrome P-450 as in the PB group. CD treatment caused the greatest decrease in G-6-Pase activity in comparison to PB or M pretreatments and a similar degree of P-450 destruction as observed with the PB group. These findings suggest that in general, CCl4-induced destruction of hepatic MFO parameters measured in this study is disproportional to the known degree of potentiated hepatotoxicity by the pretreatments and does not accurately reflect the potentiation of CCl4 hepatotoxicity by CD.


Tumor recurrence after complete resection for non-small cell lung cancer.
Long-term survival after R0 resection for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is less than 50%. The majority of mortality after resection is related to tumor recurrence. The purpose of this study was to identify independent perioperative and pathologic variables that are associated with NSCLC recurrence after complete surgical resection. A retrospective examination was performed of a prospectively maintained database of patients who underwent resection for NSCLC from July 1999 to August 2008 at a single institution. Clinicopathologic variables were evaluated for their influence on time to recurrence. Cox's proportional regression hazard model examined the association of recurrence in NSCLC. A total of 1,143 patients met inclusion criteria and had complete follow-up information. Of these patients, 378 (33.1%) had recurrence of the primary cancer. Median follow-up was 24 months (range, 3-134 months). Preoperative tumor maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) greater than 5 was associated with increased risk of recurrence (hazard ratio [HR], 1.81; p=0.01). Preoperative radiation was independently associated with recurrence (HR, 1.98; p=0.05) as well as the presence of pathologic stage II and stage III disease (stage II: HR, 2.53; p=0.05; stage III: HR, 6.49; p=0.006). Subgroup analysis found that sublobar resection was also associated with locoregional recurrence after resection (HR, 4.17; p=0.02) and lymphovascular invasion of distant recurrence (HR, 4.21; p=0.002). In the largest series reported to date on postresectional recurrence of NSCLC, SUVmax greater than 5, increasing pathologic stage, and the administration of preoperative radiation were independently associated with NSCLC recurrence after resection. Sublobar resection was independently associated with locoregional recurrence, and lymphovascular invasion was associated with distant recurrence.


The effect of diet supplementation and addition of zinc in vitro on the growth-supporting property of amniotic fluid in African women.
The effect of diet supplementation throughout pregnancy on third-trimester amniotic fluid growth-supporting activity (GSP) was studied in 100 African women; 32 were given zinc supplementation, 22 each animal and vegetable supplements, respectively, and 24 served as control subjects. No difference in GSP was noted in any of the four groups, the majority of fluids (65%) being noninhibitory. Zinc levels in fluids from African women were much lower than those described for other population groups at corresponding periods of gestation. Although zinc levels in liquor rose following dietary zinc supplementation, these remained lower than values described in white patients. In vitro addition of zinc (up to 153 mu moles per liter final concentration) to 17 noninhibitory African liquors resulted in these fluids becoming inhibitory.


Noninvasive ventilation in New Zealand: a national prevalence survey.
Home-based noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is an effective treatment for a range of conditions that cause respiratory failure which reduces hospitalisation and mortality and improves quality of life. To collect NIV prevalence, disease burden and equity data needed for effective national NIV health service planning. The authors collected demographics and the primary diagnosis of patients receiving publicly funded NIV in New Zealand in 2018 by surveying all providers. National and regional prevalence rates were calculated using adult population data (aged ≥20 years) for each District Health Board region compared with a 2011 study. A subanalysis of individual-level data was used to calculate age-standardised rates by diagnostic category. A total of 1197 adults were receiving NIV giving a national rate of 32.9 per 100 000; almost twice the 2011 rate (16.7 per 100 000). Significant regional variations in NIV provision (4.5-84.2 per 100 000) were observed. The most frequent indications were obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) (562, 47%), obstructive pathologies (335, 28%) and neuromuscular disorders (175, 15%); all have significantly increased in prevalence since 2011. Māori and Pacific peoples were significantly overrepresented among NIV users (2.24 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.72-2.93] and 7.03 [95% CI, 5.52-8.94], respectively). The prevalence of NIV-dependent use (>15 h/day) was 4%. Home-based NIV provision has doubled since the previous survey, reflecting increased burden from OHS and obstructive pathologies and a disproportionate disease burden among Māori and Pacific populations. The large regional variations are concerning and highlight the urgent requirement for national service specifications, education and equipment provision. Further research is needed to address access equity.


Open-label placebos for menopausal hot flushes: a randomized controlled trial.
This study investigated the efficacy of an open-label placebo (OLP) treatment for menopausal hot flushes. Women with at least five moderate or severe hot flushes per day were allocated to receive four weeks of OLP for twice a day or no-treatment. Intention-to-treat analyses included n = 100 women. In comparison to no-treatment, OLP reduced the log-transformed hot flush composite score (frequency × intensity) (mean difference in change: - 0.32, 95% CI [- 0.43; - 0.21], p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.86), hot flush frequency (- 1.12 [- 1.81; - 0.43], p = 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.51), and improved overall menopause-related quality of life (- 2.53 [- 4.17; - 0.89], p = 0.02, Cohen's d = 0.49). Twelve (24%) (vs. three [6%]) patients had 50% lesser hot flushes. Problem rating of hot flushes and subdomains of quality of life did not improve. After four weeks, the OLP group was further divided via randomization to continue or discontinue the treatment. Benefits were maintained at week 8 (log-transformed score: - 0.04 [- 0.06; 0.14], p = 0.45). There was no difference between taking placebos for 8 or 4 weeks (log-transformed score: 0.04 [- 0.17; 0.25], p = 0.73). Results indicate that open-label placebos may be an effective, safe alternative for menopausal hot flushes.


Person-Centered Care: A Definition and Essential Elements.
Improving healthcare safety, quality, and coordination, as well as quality of life, are important aims of caring for older adults with multiple chronic conditions and/or functional limitations. Person-centered care is an approach to meeting these aims, but there are no standardized, agreed-upon parameters for delivering such care. The SCAN Foundation charged a team from the American Geriatrics Society (AGS) in collaboration with a research and clinical team from the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California to provide the evidence base to support a definition of person-centered care and its essential elements. An interprofessional panel of experts in person-centered care principles and practices that the AGS convened developed this statement.


Adrenal demedullation and peripheral 6-OHDA administration in the rabbit: effects on body weight, general activity and cardiovascular responsivity.
Two experiments were undertaken to determine the effects of systemic 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) administration and adrenal enucleation on body weight, brain and heart norepinephrine, general activity, and cardiovascular responsivity in the rabbit. 6-Hydroxydopamine produced long lasting, dose related decreases in baseline blood pressure (BP) and in pressor responses following electric shock. Partial reversal of the BP changes was observed in nonenucleated animals tested 20 days after 6-OHDA administration but not in enucleated animals tested 5, 10 or 20 days post-injection or in control animals tested 5, 10 or 15 days after vehicle injection. Although 6-OHDA administration produced transient weight loss and activity decrements, no long term weight or activity changes were observed.


Back to the future: the role of DCB for the treatment of coronary bifurcation.
Coronary bifurcation lesion (CBL) is a common but challenging scenario in percutaneous coronary interventions. Drug-coated balloons (DCBs) are modern devices with attractive perspective in CBL treatment. In-stent restenosis, small vessel and diffuse de-novo coronary artery disease have been, so far, considered the ideal scenario for DCBs application. Studies assessing DCBs in de-novo CBL demonstrated the safety and efficacy of this strategy. However, the heterogeneity of the study populations and the presence of methodological limitations prevent from drawing definite recommendations. Considering that the best treatment of bifurcations has not yet been defined, the "leaving nothing behind" philosophy will be the topic of future studies.


Identification of a novel GB type C virus/hepatitis G virus subtype in patients with hematologic malignancies.
The existence of four GB C virus/hepatitis G virus (GBV-C/HGV) subtypes has been reported. The subtype was determined in 16 multitransfused GBV-C/HGV infected patients prior to bone marrow transplantation by comparing the 5' untranslated region (5' UTR) sequence with 39 available sequences. Phylogenetic and bootstrap analyses were carried out with PHYLIP package 3.5c. In the samples with undefined subtype, the whole 5' UTR was cloned and sequenced. Comparison of distances showed that the isolates from 12/16 and 4/16 patients belonged theoretically to subtypes 2a and 2b, respectively. The phylogenetic tree and bootstrap analyses confirmed this result in only 11/16 samples. Analysis of the entire 5' UTR from the remaining five samples with undefined GBV-C/HGV subtype revealed genomic variability within the isolates from each patient and between the isolates of different patients. Evolutionary distances, phylogenetic tree, and bootstrap showed that the isolates from these samples were grouped in a separate branch, different from the published subtypes. In conclusion, a novel GBV-C/HGV subtype was found in a group of multitransfused patients with GBV-C/HGV infection.


Screening for partial AZFa microdeletions in the Y chromosome of infertile men: is it of clinical relevance?
To evaluate the frequency of complete and partial AZFa Y-chromosome microdeletions among infertile Israeli men. To review the published frequencies and histologic findings of AZFa deletions. Retrospective study. Academic medical center. A total of 1,260 infertile Israeli men. Literature review (2000-2010) of reports on men with AZFa deletions and their testicular findings. The DNA of 1,260 infertile men was evaluated for AZF microdeletions. The DNA of 657 of them with undetected microdeletions was analyzed for partial AZFa deletion in the USP9Y and DDX3Y genes using sequence-tagged sites beyond EAA/EMQN recommendations. The frequency of complete and partial AZFa microdeletions. Availability of sperm cells for intracytoplasmic sperm injection in men with complete/partial microdeletions. Two men had complete AZFa deletion (a frequency of 0.28% among nonobstructive azoospermic men). None had partial AZFa deletions. The likelihood of finding sperm cells in men with complete AZFa deletions is negligible. Complete AZFa deletion is rare and usually associated with azoospermia and absence of sperm cells in testicular tissue. The low frequency of partial AZFa deletions and the inconsistent prospects for spermatogenesis reported in the literature question the need for routine assessment of microdeletions in genes, such as USP9Y or DDX3Y.


A new probability method to understand protein-protein interface formation mechanism at amino acid level.
Protein-protein interactions and recognitions are essential for organisms to accomplish many cellular processes. The interface compositions of protein-protein complexes are the key to understand the molecular mechanisms of these processes. There are many studies on near native interface recognition for protein-protein interactions, but the formation mechanism of protein-protein interface is still ambiguous. Here, we propose a new probability method to understand protein-protein interface formation mechanism at amino acid level. The probability of two surface residues from two monomers as a true interface residue pair is estimated by their properties in the structures of protein monomers. Estimated residue pairs with interface possibilities combine together to form a protein-protein interface. The possibility values are integrated to discriminate the near native interface from non-near native ones. In this paper, five simple probability based methods are constructed for near native interface recognition based on several geometric and physicochemical descriptors. The performances are comparable to the best results reported previously, which suggests this is a promising way. The idea proposed here will have a certain significance to the future research on protein-protein interactions.


Second primary in the contralateral breast after treatment of breast cancer.
To study the potential risk factors for contralateral breast cancer (CBC) in women after treatment of the primary breast cancer. Between January 1985 and December 1995, records of 1084 breast cancer patients at our institution were analyzed for incidence of CBC. In all the patients a detailed analysis was carried out with respect to age, disease stage, radiation therapy technique, dose, the use of chemotherapy or hormone therapy, and other clinical and/or pathologic characteristics. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to estimate the acturial rate of CBC. The Cox proportional hazard regression model was used to estimate the relative risk (RR) of CBC. Up to December 2005, the median follow up was 12 years. Overall incidence of CBC was 4%. The 10 and 20 year acturial rate of CBC was 5.6% and 11.3%, respectively. The CBC rate at 10 and 20 year was 5.4% and 10.2%, respectively, for patients with mastectomy only and 5.1% and 9.7%, respectively, in the mastectomy plus RT group (p=0.3). In the subset of patients <45 years of age at the time of treatment, 10 and 20 year acturial rate of CBC was 5% and 9%, respectively, for patients who underwent mastectomy only and 6.3% and 11%, respectively, for patients treated with mastectomy plus RT (RR=1.4, 95% CI: 1.14-1.45, p=0.003). There was statistically significant lower rate of CBC in patients given adjuvant hormonal therapy (8.5%) as compared to those without hormonal therapy (14.3%, p=0.004) at 20 year. Women with family history of breast cancer had highest rate (15.3%) of CBC (RR=1.6, 95% CI: 1.12-1.27) at 20 years. The adjuvant use of chemotherapy did not significantly affect the risk of second malignancy. There seems to be little risk of second malignancies in patients treated with mastectomy plus RT using modern techniques, compared with mastectomy only, that was only prevalent in patients <45 years of age. Family history of breast cancer seems to be the highest risk factor for CBC.


CLIP and Massively Parallel Functional Analysis of CELF6 Reveal a Role in Destabilizing Synaptic Gene mRNAs through Interaction with 3' UTR Elements.
CELF6 is a CELF-RNA-binding protein, and thus part of a protein family with roles in human disease; however, its mRNA targets in the brain are largely unknown. Using cross-linking immunoprecipitation and sequencing (CLIP-seq), we define its CNS targets, which are enriched for 3' UTRs in synaptic protein-coding genes. Using a massively parallel reporter assay framework, we test the consequence of CELF6 expression on target sequences, with and without mutating putative binding motifs. Where CELF6 exerts an effect on sequences, it is largely to decrease RNA abundance, which is reversed by mutating UGU-rich motifs. This is also the case for CELF3-5, with a protein-dependent effect on magnitude. Finally, we demonstrate that targets are derepressed in CELF6-mutant mice, and at least two key CNS proteins, FOS and FGF13, show altered protein expression levels and localization. Our works find, in addition to previously identified roles in splicing, that CELF6 is associated with repression of its CNS targets via the 3' UTR in vivo.


A new method of resurfacing the lip.
The whole lip can be resurfaced with sensate musculo-mucosal flaps taken from the cheeks. These flaps can be combined with major resection of the whole lip curtain. The return of sensation is of particular benefit to elderly patients who make up the greatest number of patients in the series.


A suggested minimum standard deep brain stimulation evaluation for essential tremor.
A comprehensive, multidisciplinary screening process for deep brain stimulation (DBS) candidates is recommended, but is often time-consuming. To determine the number of essential tremor (ET) referrals excluded from surgery and why, in order to develop recommendations for a minimum standard DBS evaluation process. We reviewed the referrals of 100 consecutive potential DBS candidates with presumed ET at our center, identified reasons for excluding patients from DBS, and the point at which they dropped out of our evaluation process. Of the 100 tremor patients referred for DBS, 36 patients were approved for surgery. Patients were mainly excluded because of the movement disorders neurologist and neuropsychologist evaluations. Reasons included an inadequate medication trial (n=20), incorrect diagnosis (n=3), dementia (n=3), and antagonistic interactions with the team (n=1). 37 patients did not present, were uninterested or lost to follow-up. Neither neurosurgical evaluation nor brain imaging excluded candidates in this study, but are needed to proceed with DBS. Our suggested minimum standard DBS screening process begins with a movement disorders neurologist and neuropsychologist evaluation in order to determine eligibility. Neurosurgical evaluation and brain imaging can then be performed if candidates are deemed eligible.


Equine strongylids: Ivermectin efficacy and fecal egg shedding patterns.
Equine cyathostomins are ubiquitous in grazing horses around the world and a main target in parasite control programs. Anthelmintic resistance has been reported with increasing frequency in these parasites over the past decades, and recent findings of fulminant resistance to the macrocyclic lactone class have raised severe concerns. This study aimed to evaluate ivermectin efficacy in cohorts of yearlings and mares present on four different farms in Central Kentucky. Strongylid egg counts were determined with an automated egg counting system, and the percent fecal egg count reduction (FECR) was calculated using a hierarchical Bayesian analysis. Novel principles were used for classification of groups to either no signs of anthelmintic resistance, evidence of resistance, or inconclusive. Furthermore, an epidemiological analysis was conducted evaluating the possible influence of pregnancy status, time of foaling, and year of arrival on mare strongylid egg shedding levels. A total of 102 yearlings and 247 mares were enrolled in the study. Evidence of ivermectin resistance was documented in one group of yearlings with a mean FECR of 91.2% and a 95% credible interval of 84.0-95.8. The results from one mare group and one additional yearling group were deemed inconclusive, whereas the remaining five groups displayed no evidence of ivermectin resistance. Strongylid shedding in the mares was not positively associated with any of the evaluated factors. This study is the first to demonstrate ivermectin resistance in US bred horses, and the findings emphasize the need for routine monitoring of anthelmintic efficacy on horse farms.


Tributyl phosphate can inhibit the feeding behavior of rotifers by altering the axoneme structure, neuronal coordination and energy supply required for motile cilia.
Organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) are frequently detected in aquatic environments and can potentially amplify the food chain, posing a potential risk to organisms. Marine invertebrates have primitive nervous systems to regulate behavior, but how they respond to OPFRs that are potentially neurotoxic substances is unclear. This study assessed changes in the feeding behavior of rotifer Brachionus plicatilis exposed to alkyl OPFRs tributyl phosphate (TnBP) (0.376 nM, 3.76 and 22.53 µM) to elucidate the mechanism of behavioral toxicity. TnBP at 22.53 μM reduced the ingestion and filtration rates of rotifers for Chlorella vulgaris and Phaeocystis globosa in a 24-h test and altered rotifer-P. globosa population dynamics in 15-d coculture. Ciliary beat frequency was also reduced, and the expression of genes encoding the cilia axoneme was downregulated. TnBP could inhibit rotifer acetylcholinesterase activity by binding this protein and reduce the expression of the exocytotic membrane protein syntaxin-4, suggesting a disorder in nervous regulation of cilia beat. Moreover, TnBP induced abnormal shape and dysfunction of mitochondria, which caused insufficient energy required for ciliary movement. This study revealed diverse neurotoxicity mechanisms of TnBP, particularly as a potentially competing acetylcholinesterase ligand for aquatic invertebrates. Our research also provides a meaningful reference for OPFR-induced behavioral toxicity assessments.


Localization of mRNAs coding for CMD1, myogenin and the alpha-subunit of the acetylcholine receptor during skeletal muscle development in the chicken.
Myogenin and CMD1, the chicken homologue of MyoD, transactivate the promoter of the alpha-subunit of the acetylcholine receptor (AChR) in chicken fibroblasts. The expression of these three genes was followed by in situ hybridization. In two-day-old embryos the CMD1 gene is expressed shortly before the AChR alpha-subunit and the myogenin genes. At day 19 extrajunctional AChR mRNA clusters have disappeared and myogenin mRNAs are no longer detected in PLD muscle. Moreover, both myogenin and CMD1 mRNA levels increase after muscle denervation in chicks. These data are compatible with a role for myogenic factors in the induction and maintenance of extra-junctional expression of the AChR genes during early muscle development. Using digoxygenin labelled RNA probes, we also show that the mRNAs for the AChR alpha-subunit display a punctated, probably perinuclear distribution, whereas mRNAs for myogenic genes accumulate in the sarcoplasm around subsets of nuclei in the muscle fiber.


Spindle cell tumor with CD34 and S100 co-expression and distinctive stromal and perivascular hyalinization showing EML4-ALK fusion.
Recently, a novel group of CD34+ and S100+ spindle cell tumors with distinctive stromal and perivascular hyalinization showing recurrent gene fusions involving RAF1, BRAF, NTRK1/2/3, and RET has been identified. ALK rearrangements have been rarely reported in this group of tumors. We report a 24-year-old woman with a 1.5-cm pink mass of the scalp. The tumor was made of spindle cells organized in fascicles or haphazardly arranged in a patternless architecture, with areas of stromal and perivascular hyalinization. The tumor cells diffusely expressed CD34 and S100, without SOX-10 expression. The tumor showed diffuse immunopositivity for ALK. RNA sequencing using next-generation sequencing (NGS) detected an EML4-ALK fusion. This case extends the spectrum of this newly described group of CD34+/S100+ spindle cell tumors at the molecular-genetic level. Dermatopathologists should be aware of this recent entity, as it may fall in the differential diagnosis of many other spindle cell tumors with CD34 expression. NGS-based techniques should be performed when facing spindle cell tumors with similar morphology and immunophenotype. Identification of kinase fusions is essential for the precise classification and better knowledge of these tumors, and for targeted therapy in rare aggressive cases.


Measles in travelers: are we aware enough?
Measles is still an important public health concern in most developing countries. Nonimmune or single-dose vaccinees traveling to high-endemic countries should be advised on the risk of acquiring the infection. We describe two cases of imported measles in Spanish travelers.


Two new species of Araneus Clerck, 1757 (Araneae, Araneidae) and first description of A. wulongensis male from China.
Two new species of Araneus Clerck, 1757 are described: A. conexus sp. nov. (♂♀) and A. digitatus sp. nov. (♂♀) from Yunnan and Hubei provinces. The male of A. wulongensis Song & Zhu, 1992 is described here for the first time. All species treated in this study belong to A. strurmi species group. Detailed description and illustrations of somatic features, and copulatory organs as well as distribution maps are provided.


Beam-sensitive metal-organic framework structure determination by microcrystal electron diffraction.
Analysis of metal-organic framework (MOF) structure by electron microscopy and electron diffraction offers an alternative to growing large single crystals for high-resolution X-ray diffraction. However, many MOFs are electron beam-sensitive, which can make structural analysis using high-resolution electron microscopy difficult. In this work we use the microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) method to collect high-resolution electron diffraction data from a model beam-sensitive MOF, ZIF-8. The diffraction data could be used to determine the structure of ZIF-8 to 0.87 Å from a single ZIF-8 nanocrystal, and this refined structure compares well with previously published structures of ZIF-8 determined by X-ray crystallography. This demonstrates that MicroED can be a valuable tool for the analysis of beam-sensitive MOF structures directly from nano and microcrystalline material.


Gait and menstrual cycle: ovulating women use sexier gaits and walk slowly ahead of men.
Previous research has demonstrated that women's physical appearance or sexual interest is different across the menstrual cycle. However, the nonverbal behavior of women toward men according to their menstrual cycle has not been previously explored. In this study, the gait of women walking ahead a male confederate was recorded with the help of a spy-camera. The amount of time that women spent walking was the first dependent variable whereas the extent to which the women were perceived to be sexually attractive by two judges was the second dependent variable. Comparisons were performed according to the women's ovulation phase measured with an LH salivary test. Near ovulation, it was found that women walked slower and their gait was subjectively rated as sexier. Such behaviors were interpreted as unconscious desires of women near ovulation to reinforce their attractiveness in order to attract more men and to increase their choice of a partner.


Nursing interventions to cover patients' basic needs in the intensive care context - A systematic review.
To examine the content, theoretical frameworks and effectiveness of nursing interventions utilizing patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) in the intensive care unit (ICU). A systematic review and narrative synthesis following the guidelines of the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis checklist. We searched the MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SweMed and Cochrane controlled trials register (CENTRAL) databases for studies evaluating interventions primarily delivered by nurses in the ICU. Two independent reviewers performed study selection, data extraction and risk of bias. Twenty-two studies were included, whereas only seven studies used a theoretical framework. The interventions were heterogeneous in content, duration and choice of PROMs. Outcomes were related to covering patients' and families' basic needs, described by Henderson as essential functions of nursing. Several studies reported positive intervention effects, and nurses' communication and psychosocial care were considered essential components of nursing interventions in the ICU.


Variability of two essential oils of Kundmannia sicula (L.) DC., a traditional Algerian medicinal plant.
The essential oils of the aerial parts of Kundmannia sicula (L.) DC collected from two Algerian localities, El Kala (near the coast) and Béjaia (from a meadow about 10 km from the coast), were analysed by GC and GC-MS. Although both samples showed similar overall chemical compositions, the major components of the Béjaia sample were identified as being spathulenol (14.8%), caryophyllene oxide (12.2%), salvial-4(14)en-1-one (10.1%), 1,5-epoxysalvial-4(14)ene (5.2%) and germacrene D (3.2%), while in the ElKala sample the main compounds were found to be salvial-4(14)en-1-one (16.4%), 1,5-epoxysalvial-4(14)ene (6.5%), chrysanthenyl acetate (5.2%) and alpha-amorphene (2.9%).


Conserved domains in polynucleotide phosphorylase among eubacteria.
Polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase) is a polynucleotide nucleotidyl transferase (E. C. 126.96.36.199) that is involved in mRNA degradation in prokaryotes. PNPase structure analysis has been performed in Streptomyces antibioticus; this revealed the presence of five domains: two ribonuclease PH (RPH)-like (pnp1 and pnp2), one alpha helical, one KH, and one S1 domains. The trimeric nature of this enzyme was also confirmed. In this work, we have investigated conserved domains or subdomains in bacterial PNPases (55), for this structure-based sequence homology analysis between predicted amino acid sequences from bacterial PNPases and that of S. antibioticus was performed. Our findings indicate that while pnp2 (% similarity average S = 84/% identity average I = 22), KH (S = 74.3%/I = 5.3%), S1 (S = 71.3%/I = 1.2%); and pnp1 (S = 52.8%/I = 0.3%) domain; structure and sequence are well conserved among different bacteria, alpha helical domain (S = 39.5%/I = 0) although conservation of the structure is somewhat maintained, the sequence is not conserved at all. Implications of such findings in PNPase activity will be discussed.


Occurrence of a rhythmic slower wave in EMG prior to a rapid voluntary movement.
The aim of the present study was to investigate whether an EMG slower wave prior to a rapid straightening-up movement is associated with motor preparation to perform the movement. The straightening movement was performed at 6 load intensities and under 3 conditions: without any external load; with an additional load; lifting a load. The subject could freely begin the rapid movement from a moderate forward-bending position whenever he was fully ready for the beginning of the movement after he held the bent posture. Bipolar surface EMGs of the erector spinal muscles at the L1 and L4 level, the gluteus maximus muscle and the semitendinosus muscle were led by a pair of skin electrodes with a time constant of 0.03 sec. The signal from the hip goniometer was measured simultaneously to identify the period of the movement. A distinct relationship between the occurrence of the slower wave and both load intensities and conditions was not found. However, the rhythmic slower wave often occurred in the muscles 200-450 msec before the movement. The occurrence of the wave in the muscles was often simultaneous. The signal from the hip goniometer did not change with the occurrence of the slower wave. The amplitude of the slower wave increased frequently. The present results suggest that the slower wave may reflect a significant change of motoneuronal activity in connection with motor preparation to perform the movement.


New use for Lentinus edodes bran biochar for tetracycline removal.
The abuse of antibiotics poses a threat to the ecological environment and biological health, and how to effectively reduce the residue of tetracycline (TC) in the environment has attracted much attention. In this study, three types of pristine biochar (BCs: PBC300, PBC500, and PBC700) were prepared using agricultural waste shiitake mushroom bran at different pyrolysis temperatures to remove TC from water. The structure and surface chemistry of the adsorbents were characterized using different analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. These changes in physicochemical properties improve the adsorption capacity of BC. The PBC300 and PBC500 conform to the Langmuir isothermal adsorption model, while the PBC700 is more compatible with the Freundlich model. According to the fitting results of the Langmuir isotherm model, the maximum saturated adsorption capacities of PBC300, PBC500 and PBC700 for TC were 7.568 mg/g, 14.994 mg/g and 17.684 mg/g, respectively. The correlation coefficients of the pseudo-second-order kinetic models were 0.9882, 0.9882 and 0.9996, respectively, which could well fit the adsorption process of TC by the three BCs, indicating that chemical adsorption was dominant. With the help of machine learning, the relationship between the physicochemical properties of BC and the adsorption capacity of TC was effectively explored. The random forest model was able to fit the adsorption process of BC on TC better. It is expected that this study will guide the rational application of BC in the treatment of TC wastewater.


The effect of 5,5-diethylbarbituric acid on the biosynthesis of anthracyclines in Streptomyces galilaeus.
5,5-Diethylbarbituric acid (barbital) stimulates the production of anthracycline antibiotics called galirubins in Streptomyces galilaeus in dependence on the strain, concentration and cultivation conditions. The stimulation is more pronounced (up to 300%) in the low-producing strain than in the production mutant. Under conditions of limited aeration the effect of barbital is increased in both strains. In the production strain barbital narrows the spectrum of metabolites produced. Higher barbital concentrations inhibit growth of the mycelium of both strains and decrease the formation of free anthracyclinones.


Generation of anti-azoxystrobin monoclonal antibodies from regioisomeric haptens functionalized at selected sites and development of indirect competitive immunoassays.
Azoxystrobin is a modern strobilurin fungicide used around the world to combat prime diseases affecting highly valuable crops. Accordingly, residues of this chemical are frequently found in food, even though mostly under maximum tolerated levels. We herein describe the development of an indirect competitive immunoassay for the determination of azoxystrobin residues. A panel of monoclonal antibodies displaying subnanomolar affinity to azoxystrobin was generated using, as immunizing haptens in mice, four functionalized derivatives carrying the same spacer arm located at different rationally chosen positions. This collection of antibodies was thoroughly characterized with homologous and heterologous antigens, and the immunoassay consisting of monoclonal antibody AZo6#49 and the coating conjugate OVA-AZb6, which displayed an IC(50) value of 0.102 μg L(-1) and a LOD of 0.017 μg L(-1), was eventually optimized. The response to different pH and ionic strength conditions of the specific assay was studied using a biparametric approach. In addition, the influence of Tween 20 and organic solvents over the assay parameters was also evaluated. After optimization, the developed immunochemical assay was applied to the analysis of azoxystrobin in spiked juices of relevant fruits and vegetables, showing excellent recoveries between 2 and 500 μg L(-1).


Military teams - A demand for resilience.
The Royal Norwegian Naval Academy (RNoNA) has an interest in enhancing military teams' knowledge, skills and abilities to deal with complex situations and environments. The objective is to document the need for resilience in military teams and to expand the understanding of how such behavior can be meaningfully instilled through team training interventions. Norwegian military subject matter experts (SMEs) assessed the performance of military teams participating in complex military training exercises. Eight cadet teams at the RNoNA were assessed during two separate 4-hour simulator training exercises and a 48-hour live training exercise. Positive Spearman rank correlation coefficients between resilience assessments in the simulator training exercises and the live training exercise were strongest when the simulator scenario emphasized resilience factors inherent in the live exercise, and weakest when the simulator scenario did not facilitate the task demands in the live exercise. The study showed that resilience assessed in teams during simulator training exercises predicted their resilient behavior in a subsequent live training exercise and that the proper design of scenario-based simulator training can realistically and effectively represent resilience stressors found in live operations.


Postbiotics-parabiotics: the new horizons in microbial biotherapy and functional foods.
Probiotics have several health benefits by modulating gut microbiome; however, techno-functional limitations such as viability controls have hampered their full potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical sectors. Therefore, the focus is gradually shifting from viable probiotic bacteria towards non-viable paraprobiotics and/or probiotics derived biomolecules, so-called postbiotics. Paraprobiotics and postbiotics are the emerging concepts in the functional foods field because they impart an array of health-promoting properties. Although, these terms are not well defined, however, for time being these terms have been defined as here. The postbiotics are the complex mixture of metabolic products secreted by probiotics in cell-free supernatants such as enzymes, secreted proteins, short chain fatty acids, vitamins, secreted biosurfactants, amino acids, peptides, organic acids, etc. While, the paraprobiotics are the inactivated microbial cells of probiotics (intact or ruptured containing cell components such as peptidoglycans, teichoic acids, surface proteins, etc.) or crude cell extracts (i.e. with complex chemical composition)". However, in many instances postbiotics have been used for whole category of postbiotics and parabiotics. These elicit several advantages over probiotics like; (i) availability in their pure form, (ii) ease in production and storage, (iii) availability of production process for industrial-scale-up, (iv) specific mechanism of action, (v) better accessibility of Microbes Associated Molecular Pattern (MAMP) during recognition and interaction with Pattern Recognition Receptors (PRR) and (vi) more likely to trigger only the targeted responses by specific ligand-receptor interactions. The current review comprehensively summarizes and discussed various methodologies implied to extract, purify, and identification of paraprobiotic and postbiotic compounds and their potential health benefits.


The subcellular localization of the glycosphingolipids in the epithelial cells of rat small intestine.
Analysis of brush-border and basolateral membrane prepared from the epithelial cells of rat small intestine showed that the brush border contained less of some phospholipids and more glycosphingolipids per protein. The N-glycoloylneuraminosyllactosylceramide was enriched in the brush border, while cholesteryl sulphate and fucosyllactosylceramide were more prominent in the basolateral membrane. By periodate-NaB3H4 labelling of the intact small intestine, it was shown that N-glycoloylneuraminosyllactosylceramide is exposed at the luminal cell surface of the epithelial cell.


In vitro study of antibiotic effect on bacterial adherence to acrylic intraocular lenses.
Implantation of artificial intraocular lenses into the eye during ophthalmic surgical procedures ensures an unliving surface on which bacterial pathogens may attach and form biofilms. Despite antibiotic treatment bacteria growing in biofilms might cause inflammation and serious complications. In this study the adhesive ability of 7 Staphylococcus aureus and 11 coagulase-negative Staphylococcus (CNS) strains to the surface of acrylic intraocular lenses had been examined by the ultrasonic method. In untreated cases adhesion of the S. aureus and CNS strains did not differ significantly. We could not demonstrate significant differences between the adhesive ability of the standard strains and the clinical isolates. In this study a single--60 min long--antibiotic (ciprofloxacin and tobramycin) treatment had been applied, that correlate well with the single or intermittant antibiotic prophylaxis of patients. Ciprofloxacin administration was able to reduce significantly the number of attached cells on the surface of acrylic lenses both in the case of S. aureus and CNS strains. Dependence of the effect from concentration could also be demonstrated. Tobramycin treatment was able to inhibit significantly the attachment of S. aureus cells. Despite the debate on antibiotic prophylaxis we presented in our experiments that a single antibiotic administration can decrease the attachment of bacterial cells to the surface of acrylic intraocular lenses, and might be effective in the prevention of postoperative endophthalmitis, that is a rare but serious complication of ophthalmic surgery.


Quantitative defense theory and patterns of feeding by oak insects.
Patterns of herbivory over a two year period on Quercus emoryi (Fagaceae) were correlated with seasonal and yearly changes in tannin and protein content. Quantitative defense theory predicts that tannin and protein content in apparent plants should be negatively and positively correlated, respectively, with degree of herbivory. Most herbivory occurred early in the growing season, but the pattern varied between the two years. Tannin and protein content sometimes varied negatively and sometimes positively with degree of herbivory; they did not consistently covary with herbivory. Protein content was positively correlated with herbivory in 1981-1982 but not in 1982-1983. Condensed tannin content was negatively correlated with herbivory in 1981-1982 but not in 1982-1983. Hydrolysable tannin content was positively correlated with herbivory activity. Multiple regression analyses indicated these phytochemical variables explained either no significant variation in herbivory (1982-1983) or did so in a fashion opposite (1981-1982) to the predictions of the theory of quantitative defense.Feeding by oak insects was not solely a function of seasonal changes in quantitative defenses and nutrients. Obviously, population dynamics of the insects are sensitive to factors other than phytochemistry of the trees and I discuss other factors that can influence patterns of herbivory.


Executive Function Predicts Older Adults' Lure Discrimination Difficulties on the Mnemonic Similarity Task.
Older adults often have difficulty remembering the details of recently encountered objects. We previously found this with the Mnemonic Similarity Task (MST). Surprisingly, the older adults' MST Lure Discrimination Index (LDI) was significantly correlated with visual acuity but not with memory or executive function. Here we ran a replication with new, larger samples of young (N = 45) and older adults (N = 70). We then combined the original and replication older adult samples (N = 108) to critically examine the relative contributions of visual acuity, memory, and executive function composite scores to LDI performance using dominance analysis. This provided, to our knowledge, the first direct statistical comparison of all 3 of these factors and their interactions on LDI. Participants completed the MST and a battery assessing visual acuity, memory, and executive function. We examined age group differences on MST performance in the new (i.e., replication) young and older adult samples and performed multiple regression and dominance analysis on the combined older adult sample. Consistent with previous findings, the older adults showed significantly poorer LDI but preserved item recognition. LDI was significantly correlated with both memory and executive function but not with visual acuity. In the combined older adult sample, all 3 composites predicted LDI, but dominance analysis indicated that executive function was the most important predictor. Older adults' MST LDI difficulty may be predicted by their executive function and visual acuity. These factors should be considered when interpreting older adults' MST performance.


Labeling of cytochrome oxidase patches in intact flatmounts of striate cortex.
Primate striate cortex contains a prominent system of columns referred to as cytochrome oxidase (CO) patches. Studies directed at the morphology and interconnections of cells in patches would be facilitated by a method that revealed the location of patches in the intact cortex. In three adult rhesus monkeys we prepared flatmounts of striate cortex [Horton JC, Hocking DR. Intrinsic variability of ocular dominance column periodicity in normal macaque monkeys. J Neurosci 1996;16:7228-39; Sincich LC, Adams DL, Horton JC. Complete flatmounting of the macaque cerebral cortex. Vis Neurosci 2003;20:663-86]. The flattened specimens were then reacted for CO activity prior to sectioning. Transillumination of the intact cortical sheet revealed an extensive pattern of dark ovals. It was confirmed that this pattern corresponded to the CO patches by subsequently cutting tangential sections and comparing them with images from the intact block. In vitro labeling of CO patches in the intact striate cortex may prove useful for directing injections of anatomical tracers such as Lucifer Yellow or DiI into identified patch and interpatch compartments.


Fetal hydronephrosis: problems in diagnosis and management.
Experience with the prenatal diagnosis and management of four cases of congenital renal abnormalities is presented. Neither prenatal intervention nor early delivery was indicated in any of these patients. The current enthusiasm for aggressive management of fetal renal abnormalities may underestimate difficulties in prenatal diagnosis and overestimate the potential benefits of early intervention.


The essential functions of adipo-osteogenic progenitors as the hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell niche.
Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and their lympho-hematopoietic progeny are supported by microenvironmental niches within bone marrow; however, the identity, nature, and function of these niches remain unclear. Short-term ablation of CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)12-abundant reticular (CAR) cells in vivo did not affect the candidate niches, bone-lining osteoblasts, or endothelial cells but severely impaired the adipogenic and osteogenic differentiation potential of marrow cells and production of the cytokines SCF and CXCL12 and led to a marked reduction in cycling lymphoid and erythroid progenitors. HSCs from CAR cell-depleted mice were reduced in number and cell size, were more quiescent, and had increased expression of early myeloid selector genes, similar to the phenotype of wild-type HSCs cultured without a niche. Thus, the niche composed of adipo-osteogenic progenitors is required for proliferation of HSCs and lymphoid and erythroid progenitors, as well as maintenance of HSCs in an undifferentiated state.


Abdominal injuries due to blank cartridges.
Blank cartridges may produce serious injury and the recognition of this hazard must be borne in mind when treating these wounds. This paper reports two cases of complicated abdominal injury inflicted by a blank cartridge.


Glomerular adaptation in uninephrectomized young rats.
To study the glomerular adaptation during compensatory renal growth starting in infancy, we assessed afferent effective ultrafiltration pressure (PUF), glomerular filtration area and hydraulic conductivity in rats uninephrectomized (Nx) or sham-operated (S) at 5 days of age. Rats were fed a normal protein diet and studied at 20 and 60 days of age. Single nephron glomerular filtration rate was significantly higher in Nx than in S rats both at 20 days of age (mean +/- SEM: 15.0 +/- 1.5 vs 7.4 +/- 0.7 nl/min) and 60 days of age (80.7 +/- 4.6 vs 43.5 +/- 3.2 nl/min). Afferent effective PUF, estimated by the stop-flow method, was significantly higher in Nx than in S rats both at 20 days (22.5 +/- 0.8 vs 18.3 +/- 0.4 mmHg) and 60 days (28.3 +/- 1.0 vs 23.2 +/- 1.1 mmHg). The filtering area per glomerulus, calculated as the area of the glomerular basement membrane facing both the endothelial and the epithelial cells, but not the mesangial cells, was not different in Nx and in S rats at 20 days (3.0 +/- 0.3 vs 2.8 +/- 0.1 10(4) microns 2), but it was significantly greater in Nx than in S rats at 60 days (23.3 +/- 3.7 vs 9.9 +/- 0.9 10(4) microns 2). The hydraulic conductivity determined in isolated glomeruli was similar in Nx and in S rats at 20 days of age (1.40 +/- 0.11 vs 1.69 +/- 0.23 microliters/min.mmHg.cm2) but was significantly decreased in 60-day-old Nx rats, compared with S rats of the same age (1.52 +/- 0.11 vs 2.35 +/- 0.17 microliters/min.mmHg.cm2).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


The influence of nicotine on performance, mood, and physiological parameters as related to smoking habit, gender, and suggestibility.
Based on previous observations that sensory suggestibility might be related to cholinergic drug effects, and that individual susceptibility to nicotine as defined by response differences to various doses is lower in males, nonsmokers, and highly suggestible subjects, the present study investigated whether nicotine serum blood levels, cardiovascular responses, and sensory suggestibility show differences according to gender and smoking habit, and whether differences in nicotine susceptibility measured by a discrimination task by subjective ratings on activation can be reproduced in the direction predicted by the previous data. In a double-blind threefold cross-over design 48 subjects divided according to smoking habit, gender, and sensory suggestibility were tested in balanced order under the influence of an oral dose of 0, 0.014, or 0.028 mg/kg body weight of nicotine. Results revealed higher serum levels of nicotine in males and smokers, a dose-dependent increase in heart rate and systolic and diastolic blood pressure, partly interacting with gender or smoking habit (females and nonsmokers showing larger increase with the low doses), and a change in suggestibility in the expected direction (decrease with the low dose, increase with the large one only in female nonsmokers). A fourfold interaction among dose, smoking habit, gender, and suggestibility for the discrimination task partly reproduced the observations of higher nicotine susceptibility in females and non-smokers, whereas suggestibility did not seem to reveal the expected changes. Also, on a subjective level larger doses were necessary to make male smokers feel activated, while the other groups showed the biphasic response pattern to the two nicotine doses. In conclusion, the data justify further research on the concept of nicotine susceptibility defined by biphasic effects of nicotine on vigilance.


Synthesis of Cu(2+)-mediated nano-sized salbutamol-imprinted polymer and its use for indirect recognition of ultra-trace levels of salbutamol.
Cu(2+)-mediated salbutamol-imprinted polymer nanoparticles, synthesized by precipitation polymerization, were mixed with graphite powder and n-eicosane in order to fabricate a modified carbon paste electrode. This electrode was then applied for indirect differential pulse voltammetry determination of salbutamol. In the presence of Cu(2+) ions, the formed Cu(2+)-salbutamol complex was adsorbed in to the pre-designed cavities of the MIP particles, situated on the electrode surface. Since the electrochemical signal of salbutamol was intrinsically small, the oxidation peak of the participant Cu(2+), after reduction step, was recorded and used as an indication of salbutamol amount, adsorbed in the electrode. Different variables influencing the sensor performance were studied and the best conditions were chosen for the determination purpose. Correlation between the sensor response to salbutamol and its concentration was linear in the range of 1.0×10(-9)-5.5×10(-8) M. Detection limit was calculated equal to 6.0×10(-10) M (S/N). Five replicated determination of salbutamol (1×10(-8) M) resulted in standard error of 3.28%, meaning a satisfactory precision of the determination method. The prepared sensor was applied for real sample analysis. In order to minimize the interference effect, the synthesized polymer was successfully used as a solid phase sorbent for salbutamol extraction, before analysis of real samples by the developed sensor.


An authoritative algorithm most appropriate for the prediction of pulmonary embolism in patients with AECOPD.
Contemporarily authoritative algorithms for the prediction of acute pulmonary embolism (PE) comprise the Standard algorithm, the Age-adjusted algorithm, the YEARS algorithm, the PERC algorithm, and the PEGeD algorithm. To date, little is known with respect to which algorithm is most appropriate for the PE prediction in patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). The patients with AECOPD who underwent the confirmed chest imaging investigations of PE due to the likelihood of PE predicted by the Standard algorithm were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were reassessed by the other four algorithms to reveal which algorithm had the best diagnostic accuracy for the likelihood prediction of PE for patients with AECOPD. The results showed that the PEGeD algorithm(88.6, 80.7, 50.4, 97.0%, 4.591, 0.141, 0.693, 82.1%) performed better overall in the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, Youden index, and diagnostic accuracy, in comparison with the Age-adjusted algorithm (78.6, 74.1, 40.1, 94.0%, 3.034, 0.289, 0.527, 74.9%), the YEARS algorithm (71.4, 76.6, 40.3, 92.4%, 3.051, 0.373, 0.480,75.6%), the PERC algorithm (98.6, 1.6, 18.2, 83.3%, 1.002, 0.875, 0.002, 19.2%). The difference of number of patients who were necessary to undergo chest imaging examinations and missed diagnoses resulted from each algorithm between the PEGeD algorithm and the Standard algorithm, the Age-adjusted algorithm, the YEARS algorithm, as well as the PERC algorithm were [- 789 (- 68.1%), N/A], [- 42 (- 3.6%),-21 (- 1.8%)], [- 3 (- 0.3%),-36 (- 3.1%)],[- 771 (- 66.6%), 21 (1.8%)], respectively. To date, the PEGeD algorithm is the most appropriate strategy among the authoritative algorithms for the likelihood prediction of pulmonary embolism in patients with AECOPD.


The Effect of Revisional One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass After Sleeve Gastrectomy on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Compared with Revisional Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: Symptoms and Quality of Life Outcomes.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common after sleeve gastrectomy (SG). We aimed to evaluate the effect of revisional one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) on GERD, compared with revisional Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) METHODS: A retrospective single-center study of a prospectively maintained patient registry (2018-2022). All patients with GERD undergoing OAGB and RYGB after SG were retrieved and included in the study. Seventy-eight SG patients had conversion to OAGB (n=31) and RYGB (n=47). Baseline characteristics were similar except age (43.8±11.5 vs. 50.3±13.4 years; p=0.03), body mass index (39.9±8.8 vs. 30.6±6 kg/m2; p<0.001), time interval (8±2.7 vs. 6.4±3.4 years; p=0.01), and sleep apnea (29% vs 8.5%; p=0.01), respectively. There was no significant difference between groups in number of patients consuming proton pump inhibitors (70.1% vs. 72.3%; p=0.66), GERD-health-related quality of life (HRQL) score (9.6±7.2 vs. 13.1±8; p=0.06), and pathological endoscopic findings (48.4% vs. 46.8%; p=0.89). Major complication rates were 0% vs. 8.5% (p=0.09). At 32.4 months follow-up, total weight loss was 22%±12.9 and 4.4%±14.6 (p<0.001), GERD resolution 77.4% and 91.9% (p=0.03), HRQL scoring improved to 1.7±4.5 and 1.7±2.7; p=0.94 for OAGB and RYGB, respectively. SG conversion to RYGB provides better chances for definitive treatment of GERD. OAGB results in good symptom resolution and improved quality of life and may be considered for post-SG GERD treatment. The most appropriate solution should be individualized to each patient.


Surrogates' and intended parents' experiences of surrogacy arrangements: a systematic review.
This commentary situates the recently published systematic review of empirical studies of surrogates' and intended parents' experiences of surrogacy by Kneebone, Beilby and Hammarberg within the context of increased international interest in legislative and regulatory reforms to surrogacy. The commentary evaluates the strengths of this systematic review, before turning to a discussion of how jurisdictions could introduce reforms aiming to facilitate domestic surrogacy arrangements, focusing on the UK and the Law Commission's recent proposals.


Thermodynamic insight into the origin of the inclusion of monosulfonated isomers of triphenylphosphine into the beta-cyclodextrin cavity.
Formation of inclusion complexes between the beta-cyclodextrin and the potassium salt of o-, m-, and p-substituted monosulfonated triphenylphosphine derivatives was investigated in aqueous solution by NMR spectroscopy. Titration and continuous variation plots obtained from 31P and 1H NMR data indicate the formation of a 1:1 inclusion complex for the three phosphine isomers. T-ROESY NMR experiments show that in all cases a non-sulfonated aromatic ring was included into the hydrophobic cavity of beta-cyclodextrin from the secondary hydroxyl groups side. The standard enthalpy and entropy of the inclusion process were estimated from the temperature dependence of the association constant. All inclusion complexes were enthalpy stabilized, but highly entropy destabilized.


Modification with hemeproteins increases the diffusive movement of nanorods in dilute hydrogen peroxide solutions.
Nanorods were decorated with different hemeproteins that are able to convert hydrogen peroxide. When dispersed into hydrogen peroxide solutions, most of these nanorods are characterized by diffusion coefficients which increase with the concentration of hydrogen peroxide. Such a behaviour does not characterize unmodified nanorods.


Effects of adolescent nicotine and SR 147778 (Surinabant) administration on food intake, somatic growth and metabolic parameters in rats.
Tobacco smoking and obesity are worldwide important health problems with a growing impact in adolescent and young adults. One of the consequences of nicotine withdrawal is an increase in body weight that can act as a risk factor to relapse. Experimental therapies with a cannabinoid receptor antagonist have been recently proposed for both cigarette smoking and complicated overweight. In the present study, we aimed to investigate metabolic and hormonal effects of chronic nicotine treatment (during treatment and in abstinence) in an animal model of adolescence as well as to address the pharmacological effects of the novel selective CB1 cannabinoid receptor antagonist, SR 147778 (Surinabant). Adolescence (postnatal days 37-44) and/or post-adolescence (postnatal days 45-59) administration of Surinabant reduced body weight gain, as well as plasma glucose levels and triglycerides. The drug also reduced insulin and leptin secretion, and increased adiponectin and corticosterone levels. The effects showed sexual dimorphisms and, in general, were more pronounced in females. Chronic exposure to nicotine (0.8 mg/kg), from postnatal days 30-44 did not result in overt effects on food intake or body weight gain. However, it altered certain responses to the administration of Surinabant, both when the two drugs were given simultaneously and when Surinabant was administered during the post-adolescence period, along nicotine withdrawal. The present results indicate that the endogenous cannabinoid system is active as a metabolic modulator during adolescence and that nicotine exposure can induce long-lasting effects on metabolic regulation, altering cannabinoid modulation of energy expenditure and metabolism.


Common and uncommon immunoglobulin haplotypes among Lebanese communities.
Allotypes of IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgA2 subclasses were investigated in seven Lebanese communities (three Moslem and four Christian). The Gm-Am haplotypes found were mainly those prevalent in Caucasians with a low frequency of haplotypes usually observed in Africans and Orientals. The difference between highlanders and lowlanders as expressed by G2m(23) was highly significant and suggested a possible adaptation to selective pressure related to the gamma2 genes, possibly due to endemic malaria in the past. Exceptional Gm-Am haplotypes were unambiguously determined by family studies. Some were characterized either by a deletion or a repression or, in contrast, by a partial or total duplication of gamma genes. Two others had uncommon combinations of allotypes: Gm17;23;5,10,11,13,14 A2m1, where G1m (17) was present without G1m (1); and Gm3;23;5,14 A2m1, where the CH3 allotypes G3m (10,11,13) were lacking.


Type 2 diabetes and oral health: a comparison between diabetic and non-diabetic subjects.
A controlled cross-sectional study with the aim of studying oral health in patients with type 2 diabetes was carried out in a health care district in Sweden. The study included 102 randomly sampled diabetic patients and 102 age- and gender-matched non-diabetic subjects from the same geographical area, treated at the same Public Dental Service clinics. Oral conditions were measured at clinical and X-ray examinations. Diabetes-related variables were extracted from medical records. Diabetic patients suffered from xerostomia (dry mouth) to a significantly higher degree than non-diabetic controls did (53.5 vs. 28.4%; P=0.0003). Sites with advanced periodontitis were more frequent in the diabetic group (P=0.006) as were initial caries lesions (P=0.02). Diabetic subjects showed a greater need of periodontal treatment (P=0.05), caries prevention (P=0.002) and prosthetic corrections (P=0.004). Diabetes duration or metabolic control of the disease was not related to periodontal status. However, patients with longer duration of diabetes had more manifest caries lesions (P=0.05) as had those on insulin treatment when compared with patients on oral/diet or combined treatment (P=0.0001). The conclusion is that individuals with type 2 diabetes in some oral conditions exhibited poorer health. Close collaboration between the patient, the primary health care and oral health professionals could be a way of improving the diabetic patient's general and oral health.


Consultation-Liaison Case Conference: Systemic Challenges in Management of Aggression in a Pediatric Patient With Seronegative Autoimmune Encephalitis.
We present the case of a 9-year-old girl who presented to a tertiary-care academic children's hospital with acute onset of severe obsessive-compulsive symptoms, perseveration, grimacing, and personality changes with resultant agitation. Extensive multidisciplinary workup led to a diagnosis of seronegative autoimmune encephalitis. The clinical course included multiple general pediatric and inpatient psychiatric unit admissions that were complicated by severe affective dysregulation with physical aggression towards staff and family. Top experts in the consultation-liaison field provide guidance for this commonly encountered clinical case based on their experience and a review of available literature. Key teaching points include assessment and management of seronegative autoimmune encephalitis and catatonia. We discuss the system-level challenges of management of aggression in health care settings and ways to improve care for patients presenting with behavioral manifestations (aggression) of physical illness.


Coital and contraceptive behavior of female adolescents.
Structural interviews conducted with 532 female clients of a teen contraceptive clinic revealed a moderate level of coital activity i(in terms of both frequency of intercourse and number of partners) which typically began at age 15. Prior use of contraception was sporadic and almost exclusively confined to nonprescription methods. Primary reasons for nonuse of birth control included fear of lessening the pleasure of intercourse and lack of access to contraception. The data indicate that a combination of comprehensive sex education and ready access to birth control is necessary to prevent unintended adolescent pregnancy.


Crystal structure and enzymatic activity of an ADAMTS-13 mutant with the East Asian-specific P475S polymorphism.
An East Asian-specific P475S polymorphism in the gene encoding ADAMTS-13 causes an approximately 16% reduction in plasma ADAMTS-13 activity. To demonstrate the impact of this dysfunctional polymorphism by characterizing the structure and activity of the P475S mutant protein. We determined the crystal structure of the P475S mutant of ADAMTS-13-DTCS (DTCS-P475S, residues 287-685) and compared it with the wild-type structure. We determined the enzymatic parameters of ADAMTS-13-MDTCS (residues 75-685) and MDTCS-P475S, and further examined the effects of denaturants and reaction temperature on their activity. We also examined the cleavage of shear-treated von Willebrand factor (VWF) by MDTCS-P475S. MDTCS-P475S showed a reaction rate similar to that of wild-type MDTCS, but showed two-fold lower affinity for the peptidyl substrate, indicating that the Pro475-containing V-loop (residues 474-481) in the CA domain is a substrate-binding exosite. Structural analysis showed that the conformation of the V-loop was significantly different in DTCS-P475S and the wild type, where no obvious interactions of Ser475 with other residues were observed. This explains the higher susceptibility of the enzymatic activity of MDTCS-P475S to reaction environments such as denaturants and high temperature. MDTCS-P475S can moderately cleave shear-treated VWF. We have provided structural evidence that the P475S polymorphism in ADAMTS-13 leads to increased local structural instability, resulting in lowered affinity for the substrate without changing the reaction rate. The moderate activity of ADAMTS-13-P475S for shear-treated VWF is sufficient to prevent thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) onset.


Evaluation of the accuracy of panoramic radiography in linear measurements of the jaws.
Panoramic radiography has a great place among imaging techniques because of its enormous advantages. One of the characteristics of an ideal imaging technique is to supply precise measurement. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the accuracy of linear measurements of the jaws on panoramic radiographs. In this study, the vertical distances between the metal markers were measured by panoramic radiography in seven sites of two skulls in various head positions. Then the radiographic measurements were compared with the actual values. Eighty three percent of the measurements were underestimated, 8.5% were overestimated on panoramic radiography and 8.5% of the measurements had no difference with the real measurements. Overestimation was not greater than 1 mm. The difference between actual and radiographic measurements was less in the posterior areas and in the mandible . In all head positions, the greatest difference between actual and radiographic measurements occurred in the anterior area. Based on the results of this study, linear measurements on panoramic radiography are more reliable in the posterior areas and may be used in early clinical measurements.


The Number and Size of Individual Kidney Medullary Pyramids is Associated with Clinical Characteristics, Kidney Biopsy Findings, and CKD Outcomes among Kidney Donors.
Segmentation of multiple structures in cross-sectional imaging is time-consuming and impractical to perform manually, especially if the end goal is clinical implementation. In this study, we developed, validated, and demonstrated the capability of a deep learning algorithm to segment individual medullary pyramids in a rapid, accurate, and reproducible manner. The results demonstrate that cortex volume, medullary volume, number of pyramids, and mean pyramid volume is associated with patient clinical characteristics and microstructural findings and provide insights into the mechanisms that may lead to CKD. The kidney is a lobulated organ, but little is known regarding the clinical importance of the number and size of individual kidney lobes. After applying a previously validated algorithm to segment the cortex and medulla, a deep-learning algorithm was developed and validated to segment and count individual medullary pyramids on contrast-enhanced computed tomography images of living kidney donors before donation. The association of cortex volume, medullary volume, number of pyramids, and mean pyramid volume with concurrent clinical characteristics (kidney function and CKD risk factors), kidney biopsy morphology (nephron number, glomerular volume, and nephrosclerosis), and short- and long-term GFR <60 or <45 ml/min per 1.73 m 2 was assessed. Among 2876 living kidney donors, 1132 had short-term follow-up at a median of 3.8 months and 638 had long-term follow-up at a median of 10.0 years. Larger cortex volume was associated with younger age, male sex, larger body size, higher GFR, albuminuria, more nephrons, larger glomeruli, less nephrosclerosis, and lower risk of low GFR at follow-up. Larger pyramids were associated with older age, female sex, larger body size, higher GFR, more nephrons, larger glomerular volume, more nephrosclerosis, and higher risk of low GFR at follow-up. More pyramids were associated with younger age, male sex, greater height, no hypertension, higher GFR, lower uric acid, more nephrons, less nephrosclerosis, and a lower risk of low GFR at follow-up. Cortex volume and medullary pyramid volume and count reflect underlying variation in nephron number and nephron size as well as merging of pyramids because of age-related nephrosclerosis, with loss of detectable cortical columns separating pyramids.


Halogenation of the 3-position of pyridines through Zincke imine intermediates.
Pyridine halogenation reactions are crucial for obtaining the vast array of derivatives required for drug and agrochemical development. However, despite more than a century of synthetic endeavors, halogenation processes that selectively functionalize the carbon-hydrogen bond in the 3-position of a broad range of pyridine precursors remain largely elusive. We report a reaction sequence of pyridyl ring opening, halogenation, and ring closing whereby the acyclic Zincke imine intermediates undergo highly regioselective halogenation reactions under mild conditions. Experimental and computational mechanistic studies indicate that the nature of the halogen electrophile can modify the selectivity-determining step. Using this method, we produced a diverse set of 3-halopyridines and demonstrated late-stage halogenation of complex pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.


Colorimetric and fluorometric aggregation-based heparin assay by using gold nanoclusters and gold nanoparticles.
An optical nanoprobe consisting of gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) is described for ultrasensitive detection of heparin (Hep). Polyethyleneimine (PEI) induces the aggregation of AuNPs which results in a color change from wine red (peak at 520 nm) to blue (peak at 610 nm). In parallel, the fluorescence of AuNCs (with excitation/emission maxima at 370/610 nm) is weakened. However, in the presence of Hep (which is strongly negatively charged), it will electrostatically bind to positively charged PEI and then will prevent aggregation. Hence, the color changes from blue (aggregated) to red (non-aggregated). In parallel, fluorescence remains unchanged. Hep can be quantified by using the nanoprobe in the range of 4-220 ng·mL-1, with the detection limits as low as 1.6 (colorimetry) and 3.4 ng·mL-1 (fluorometry). The assay was applied to the detection of Hep in (spiked) human serum with satisfactory results. Graphical abstractSchematic illustration for colorimetric and fluorometric determination of heparin based on the use of a nanoprobe consisting of gold nanoclusters (AuNCs) and gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with polyethyleneimine (PEI) as the mediator.


Report of two cases where sleep related eating behavior occurred with the extended-release formulation but not the immediate-release formulation of a sedative-hypnotic agent.
We report two cases in which amnestic sleep related eating disorder (SRED) occurred with extended-release zolpidem but not with the immediate-release formulation. These cases illustrate how even relatively small differences such as formulation can affect the likelihood of experiencing such events.


Clinical implications of factor XII deficiency.
A patient with known factor XII deficiency underwent extraction of four impacted third molars. Significant preoperative laboratory values included a partial thromboplastin time (PTT) of greater than 100 seconds and a factor XII level of less than 1%. The third molars were removed without any significant intraoperative or postoperative bleeding. Factor XII not only has an important function in the initiation of the intrinsic pathway of the coagulation cascade, but it also plays a significant role in complement activation, kinin generation, and fibrinolysis. It would seem that a deficiency in this factor would have widespread clinical implications. In fact, the only clinical significance seems to be a predisposition to thromboembolism in factor XII deficient patients.


CK20 and p53 Immunohistochemical Staining Patterns in Urinary Bladder Specimens With Equivocal Atypia.
- Urinary bladder flat carcinoma in situ (CIS) is a worrisome lesion, requiring aggressive surveillance and treatment. Cytokeratin 20 (CK20) and p53 are common immunohistochemical antibodies used to supplement CIS diagnosis in biopsy samples. However, existing data come primarily from unequivocally benign and malignant specimens. - To correlate these markers in specimens with borderline histology with outcomes. - CK20 and p53 immunohistochemistry was analyzed for staining pattern, classified as CIS pattern (both stains yielding strong labeling of the area of concern), discordant (only 1 stain yielding CIS pattern), indeterminate (1 or both stains yielding partial or equivocal labeling), or benign (both stains yielding a benign pattern). - Specimens with equivocal atypia (n = 69) from 65 patients were studied. There were 9 specimens (13%) that had a CIS staining pattern, 18 (26%) were discordant, 31 (45%) were indeterminate, and 11 (16%) were benign. Of the discordant specimens, 13 labeled for CK20 but not p53, whereas 5 showed the opposite. Most specimens (n = 47; 68%) were obtained from patients with a known history of bladder cancer, of which recurrence developed in 27, with an average interval of 37 months (range, 2-216 months). A subset (n = 22; 34%) had no prior history of bladder cancer, from which only 1 patient with CK20-positive/p53-equivocal staining later developed diagnostic carcinoma. - In our cohort of specimens with equivocal urothelial atypia, very few patients without a prior diagnosis of bladder cancer progressed to diagnostic cancer (1 of 22), suggesting that staining results should be interpreted with caution in de novo atypia. Patients with a known history of bladder cancer had a substantial rate of recurrence, independent of staining pattern.


Comprehensive genome-wide identification and expression profiling of ADF gene family in Citrus sinensis, induced by endophytic colonization of Beauveria bassiana.
Endophytic entomopathogenic species are known to systematically colonize host plants and form symbiotic associations that benefit the plants they live with. The actin-depolymerizing factors (ADFs) are a group of gene family that regulate growth, development, and defense-related functions in plants. Systematic studies of ADF family at the genome-wide level and their expression in response to endophytic colonization are essential to understand its functions but are currently lacking in this field. 14ADF genes were identified and characterized in the Citrus sinensis genome. The ADF genes of C. sinensis were classified into five groups according to the phylogenetic analysis of plant ADFs. Additionally, the cis-acting analysis revealed that these genes play essential role in plant growth/development, phytohormone, and biotic and abiotic responses; and the expression analysis showed that the symbiotic interactions generate a significant expression regulation level of ADF genes in leaves, stems and roots, compared to controls; thus enhancing seedlings' growth. Additionally, the 3D structures of the ADF domain were highly conserved during evolution. These results will be helpful for further functional validation of ADFs candidate genes and provide important insights into the vegetative growth, development and stress tolerance of C. sinensis in responses to endophytic colonization by B. bassiana.


Brain and other natriuretic peptides: molecular aspects.
Natriuretic peptides have emerged as important candidates for development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic agents in cardiovascular disease. The family contains of three major peptides-ANP, BNP, CNP-that participate in cardiovascular and cardiorenal homeostasis. Each of these natriuretic peptides binds differentially to specific receptors that signal through different mechanisms. They are cleared enzymatically by neutral endopeptidase as well as by receptor-mediated endocytosis. Because of its fast induction and specific expression in overt heart failure, BNP seems the most promising natriuretic peptide. It is predominantly synthesized in the cardiac ventricles, released as pre-proBNP and then enzymatically cleaved to BNP and the N-terminal portion of BNP(NT-proBNP). Blood measurements of BNP and NT-proBNP have been shown to identify patients with LV dysfunction. This review focuses on the physiology of natriuretic peptides as a group and brain natriuretic peptide in more detail, its structure and regulation as well as its effects at the cellular level.


[Correction of arterial pressure in rats with hereditary hypertension by altering catecholamine metabolism in early ontogeny].
In a newly developed rat strain with inherited stress-sensitive arterial hypertension (ISSAH) an attempt was made to reduce arterial blood pressure by L-DOPA injections during a short time period of the early ontogenesis. It was shown that L-DOPA injections to rats on days 7-9 or 14-16 of life had no effect. The same procedure performed on 21-23 or 21-25-day-old rats was followed by a decrease in the basal and stress-induced arterial blood pressure levels, measured in adulthood. Injections of dopamine-beta-hydroxylase inhibitor (FLA-59) with parallel L-DOPA administration completely blocked the blood pressure decreasing effect. It can be suggested that injections of L-DOPA in the 4th week of post-natal life reduce the blood pressure level in ISSAH rats by enhancing the rate of brain noradrenaline biosynthesis.


Oculomotor nerve neurinoma: report of two cases.
Being motor nerves neurinomas originating from ocular nerves are very rare, unless associated with neurofibromatosis. Authors describe two cases of oculomotor nerve i.e. third nerve, Schwann cell tumours. One of them presented as a cavernous sinus mass in a middle aged lady while the other was a middle aged man with a large cisterno-cavernous tumour. Surgical approach is discussed and the relevant literature reviewed.


Purification of hepatocyte growth factor using polyvinyldiene fluoride-based immobilized metal affinity membranes: equilibrium adsorption study.
Polyvinyldiene fluoride (PVDF)-based affinity membranes with immobilized copper ions were developed in this study. The resulting membranes were tested for their adsorption properties using a model protein, lysozyme, in batch mode. First, different lengths of diamine were utilized as spacer arms to immobilize the metal ions onto the membranes. It was found that the application of 1,8-diaminooctane as the spacer arm led to the highest adsorption capacity. Moreover, the effects of pH and salt concentration were investigated to distinguish the proportion of specific and nonspecific interactions. A big fraction of lysozyme adsorption capacity for the immobilized metal affinity membranes was considered to come from nonspecific electrostatic interactions, which could be reduced by increasing salt concentration. Lastly, the purification of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) from insect cell supernatant was performed using the immobilized metal affinity membranes in batch mode. HGF was found in the elution condition using EDTA, indicating the successful purification of HGF.


An unusual sincipital meningoencephalocele: a case report.
A congenital nasoglabellar mass is usually either a meningocele or an encephalocele. Occasionally, lipoma, sarcoma, dermoid, glioma, or scalp angioma may resemble an encephalocele. This report describes a rather unusual sincipital meningoencephalocele in an 8-month-old boy.


Early cognitive profiles of emergent readers: a longitudinal study.
This longitudinal study examined the contribution of phonological awareness, phonological memory, and visuospatial ability to reading development in 142 English-speaking children from the start of kindergarten to the middle of Grade 2. Partial cross-lagged analyses revealed significant relationships between early performance on block design and matching letter-like forms tasks and later reading ability. Rhyme awareness correlated with later reading ability during the earliest stages, but onset awareness did not emerge as important until after the children had started reading. Digit span correlated significantly with future reading ability at every stage. These findings indicate that although phonological awareness, phonological memory, and visuospatial ability are all necessary for emergent reading, their relative importance varies across the first 2 years of reading development.


Opioid Dependence After Lung Cancer Resection: Institutional Analysis of State Prescription Drug Database.
The national opioid epidemic is a public health crisis. Thoracic surgery has also been associated with high incidence of new persistent opioid use. Our purpose was to describe the incidence and predictors of opioid use after lung cancer resection. Retrospective review of lung cancer resections from 2015 to 2018 was performed using the Ohio Automated Rx Reporting System. Opioid dosing was recorded as milligram morphine equivalents (MME). Patients were stratified by preoperative opioid use. Chronic preoperative opioid users (opioid dependent) filled > 120 days supply of opioid pain medication in the 12 months prior to surgery; intermittent opioid users filled < 120 days. Chronic postoperative opioid users continued monthly use after 180 days postoperatively. 137 patients underwent resection. 16.1% (n = 22) were opioid dependent preoperatively, 29.2% (n = 40) were intermittent opioid users, and 54.7% (n = 75) were opioid naïve. Opioid dependent patients had higher daily inpatient opioid use compared to intermittent users and opioid naïve (43[30.0-118.1] MME vs 17.9[3.5-48.8] MME vs 8.8[2.1-25.0] MME, p < 0.001). Twenty-six percent (n = 35) of all patients were opioid users beyond 180 days postoperatively. Variables associated with opioid use > 180 days were: chronic preoperative opioid use (OR 23.8, p < 0.01), daily inpatient opioid requirement (1.02, p < 0.01), and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (28.2, p < 0.01). A quarter of patients are opioid dependent after lung cancer resection. This is due to both preexisting and new persistent opioid use. Improved strategies are needed to prevent chronic pain and opioid dependence after lung cancer resection.


Screen time and childhood attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a meta-analysis.
The association between screen time and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been controversial. This study sheds light on the contentious correlation between screen time and ADHD. Until August 2022, electronic searches of the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were carried out. The combined effect value odds ratios (OR) and 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) were calculated for the meta-analysis using Stata 12.0. There were 81,234 children in the nine studies that made up this meta-analysis which included 28,997 children with ADHD and 52,237 healthy controls. When compared with the screen time <2 h/d, the OR (95 % CI) value of screen time and ADHD in the screen time ≥2 h/d group was 1.51 (1.20-1.90). Based on the current meta-analysis results, our study found a positive correlation between screen time and the risk of ADHD. Excessive screen exposure may significantly contribute to the development of ADHD in children. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce screen time per day in children to prevent the occurrence of ADHD.


Ribonuclease P RNA gene sequencing as a tool for molecular dereplication of myxobacterial strain collections.
Efficient strain dereplication is of great value during the generation of bacterial strain collections for industrial screening. We evaluated the utilization of the RNase P RNA gene (rnpB) sequence as a tool for molecular dereplication of myxobacteria. 16S rDNA (approx. 1 x 5 kbp) and rnpB (approx. 0 x 3 kbp) sequences were obtained and aligned. From 50 strains, we obtained 20 different sequences for the 16S rDNA and 24 for rnpB. Intersequence similarity was lower for rnpB than for 16S rDNA. rnpB allows the rapid discrimination of similar strains, with a higher resolution power as compared with 16S rRNA gene sequencing. It not only gives better discrimination, but is also faster and cheaper than 16S rDNA sequencing. Myxobacteria isolation and cultivation require time and experience. The application of rnpB sequencing to early myxobacterial strain dereplication may help in the generation of diverse strain libraries of these bacteria.


Modification of experimental atherosclerosis by calcium-channel blockers.
The process of atherosclerosis, although not completely understood, is being clarified. A unifying hypothesis holds that the initial event is endothelial injury, followed by platelet aggregation and release reactions. This leads to smooth muscle cell migration into the intima and replication, with subsequent secretion of elastin, collagen and glycosaminoglycans (which binds lipids). Several animal studies have shown that calcium plays an important role in this process. Many drugs with diverse properties can inhibit experimental atherosclerosis. These drugs appear to reduce intracellular calcium. The calcium-channel blockers nifedipine, diltiazem and verapamil, which decrease intracellular calcium, also protect animals from experimental atherosclerosis. The relevance of these animal models to human atherosclerosis is uncertain, and there are very few studies concerning regression of atherosclerosis by interfering with calcium fluxes. Further studies will be needed to clarify these points.