Allelism between pso1-1 and rev3-1 mutants and between pso2-1 and snm1 mutants in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, allelism between the pso1-1 and the rev3-1 mutants on the one hand and the pso2-1 and snm1 mutants on the other, is demonstrated by the comparison of phenotypes, complementation tests and meiotic segregation analysis.


Dissection of Arp2/3 complex actin nucleation mechanism and distinct roles for its nucleation-promoting factors in Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Actin nucleation by the Arp2/3 complex is under tight control, remaining inactive until stimulation by nucleation-promoting factors (NPFs). Although multiple NPFs are expressed in most cell types, little is known about how they are coordinated and whether they perform similar or distinct functions. We examined genetic relationships among the four S. cerevisiae NPFs. Combining las17delta with pan1-101 or myo3delta myo5delta was lethal at all temperatures, whereas combining pan1-101 with myo3delta myo5delta showed no genetic interaction and abp1delta partially suppressed las17delta. These data suggest that NPFs have distinct and overlapping functions in vivo. We also tested genetic interactions between each NPF mutant and seven different temperature-sensitive arp2 alleles and purified mutant Arp2/3 complexes to compare their activities. Two arp2 alleles with mutations at the barbed end were severely impaired in nucleation, providing the first experimental evidence that Arp2 nucleates actin at its barbed end in vitro and in vivo. Another arp2 allele caused partially unregulated ("leaky") nucleation in the absence of NPFs. Combining this mutant with a partially unregulated allele in a different subunit of Arp2/3 complex was lethal, suggesting that cells cannot tolerate high levels of unregulated activity. Genetic interactions between arp2 alleles and NPF mutants point to Abp1 having an antagonistic role with respect to other NPFs, possibly serving to attenuate their stronger activities. In support of this model, Abp1 binds strongly to Arp2/3 complex, yet has notably weak nucleation-promoting activity and inhibits Las17 activity on Arp2/3 complex in a dose-responsive manner.


Maxillary expansion and maxillomandibular expansion for adult OSA: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
This study sought to systematically review the international literature for articles evaluating maxillary expansion and maxillomandibular expansion as treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adults and to perform a meta-analysis. Nine databases (including MEDLINE/PubMed). Searches were performed through January 8, 2016. The PRISMA statement was followed. Eight adult studies (39 patients) reported polysomnography and/or sleepiness outcomes. Six studies reported outcomes for maxillary expansion (36 patients), and the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) decreased from a mean (M) ± standard deviation (SD) of 24.3 ± 27.5 [95% CI 15.3, 33.3] to 9.9 ± 13.7 [95% CI 5.4, 14.4] events/hr (relative reduction: 59.3%). Maxillary expansion improved lowest oxygen saturation (LSAT) from a M ± SD of 84.3 ± 8.1% [95% CI 81.7, 87.0] to 86.9 ± 5.6% [95% CI 85.1, 88.7]. Maxillomandibular expansion was reported in two studies (3 patients) and AHI decreased from a M ± SD of 47.53 ± 29.81 [95% CI -26.5 to 121.5] to 10.7 ± 3.2 [95% CI 2.8, 18.6] events/hr (relative reduction: 77.5%). Maxillomandibular expansion improved LSAT from a M ± SD of 76.7 ± 14.5% [95% CI 40.7, 112.7] to 89.3 ± 3.1 [95% CI 81.6, 97]. The current literature demonstrates that maxillary expansion can improve and maxillomandibular expansion can possibly improve AHI and LSAT in adults; however, given the paucity of studies, these remain open for additional research efforts.


Association between 24-h movement guidelines and cardiometabolic health in Chilean adults.
This study aimed to examine the association between meeting 24-h movement guidelines and cardiometabolic health in Chilean adults. We used cross-sectional data of 2618 adults from the Chilean National Health Survey 2016-2017. Meeting the 24-h movement guidelines was defined as ≥ 600 MET-min/week of physical activity; ≤ 8 h/day of sitting time; and 7 to 9 h/day of sleep duration. Cardiometabolic health indicators were body mass index, waist circumference, high triglycerides, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and risk of cardiovascular disease in a 10-year period. Meeting none out of three 24-h movement guidelines (vs all three) was associated with higher odds of overweight/obesity (OR 1.67; 95%CI 1.45 to 1.89), high waist circumference (1.65; 1.40 to 1.90), hypertension (2.88; 2.23 to 3.53), type 2 diabetes (1.60; 1.26 to 1.94), metabolic syndrome (1.97; 1.54 to 2.40) and risk of cardiovascular disease (1.50; 1.20, 1.80). Meeting one guideline (vs three) was associated with higher odds of five of out seven cardiometabolic indicators. Our study found that the composition of movement behaviors within a 24-h period may have important implications for cardiometabolic health.


Factors contributing to burnout in dermatologists.
Physician burnout is associated with increased medical errors, lower patient satisfaction, and decreased professional work effort. Although rates of burnout are lower in dermatology than in other specialties, the prevalence is still high and increasing. Burnout affects both personal and patient care. It is important to consider factors and ways to combat this phenomenon to prevent deterioration. To achieve this, a comprehensive understanding of the causes contributing to burnout in dermatology is crucial. To date, a limited number of publications have specifically addressed burnout in dermatology. In this contribution, burnout in dermatology, burnout prevention, and promotion of dermatologist wellness through the systemic approach of the Stanford model for professional fulfillment, which includes creating a culture of wellness, workplace efficiency, and resilience, are reviewed.


Impact of subjective and objective neighbourhood characteristics and individual socioeconomic position on allostatic load: A cross-sectional analysis of an all-age UK household panel study.
Research suggests that individuals living in more disadvantaged neighbourhoods experience higher levels of stress but this has generally been based on self-reported stress. We used survey-based neighbourhood quality indicators and biomarker data from Understanding Society, linked to census and crime statistics to explore associations of allostatic load (AL), an objective biomarker-based measure of cumulative stress, with subjective and objective neighbourhood characteristics. Analyses of 6887 respondents living in England show greater AL among those living in more disadvantaged areas, with objective measure associations stronger than subjective. Neighbourhood inequalities in AL were lower among respondents with higher individual SEP. These results suggest that individual-level SEP mitigates against the impact of negative, particularly objective, neighbourhood characteristics. Policies to reduce health inequalities should consider both individual and neighbourhood circumstances.


Ameliorative effect of Boesenbergin A, a chalcone isolated from Boesenbergia rotunda (Fingerroot) on oxidative stress and inflammation in ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in vivo.
Boesenbergia rotunda (L.) Mansf. Kulturpfl., previously known as Boesenbergia pandurata (Family: Zingiberaceae) is a ginger species, locally known as fingerroot. It is an integral part of Southeast Asian traditional medicine in alleviating many gastrointestinal disorders such as flatulence, carminative, stomach ache, dyspepsia, and peptic ulcer. Earlier we have investigated the cytoprotective effect of Boesenbergia rotunda extract. In the present study, we investigated the gastroprotection activity of Boesenbergin A (BA), a chalcone isolated from Boesenbergia rotunda extract in ethanol-induced ulcer model in rats. Besides, the contribution of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant ability of BA as probable mechanisms involved in the anti-ulcer activity, also been studied. BA was orally administered in rats before ulcer induction with ethanol. The lesions of the gastric mucosa were evaluated macroscopically and histopathologically. The efficiency of BA in mucus production, NO production, PGE2 synthesis, mucosal nonprotein sulphydryls, glutathione (GSH) level, and lipid peroxidation (MDA) level were studied. The involvement of the anti-inflammatory capacity of BA was analyzed by using the measurement of cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. Finally, the expression of biomarkers such as HSP 70 and iNOS was analyzed at the transcriptional and translational levels. We confirmed the protective capacity of BA via the reduction of ulcerated and haemorrhagic areas. It has induced the protection through lowering GSH, MDA and increased NP-SH level. The plasma NO levels were significantly less in BA treated rats. Both cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 were decreased together with elevated PGE2. Upregulation of HSP and downregulation of iNOS were determined in immunohistochemical and gene expression studies CONCLUSIONS: The current results suggest that the prophylactic effect found with BA is due to (i) boosting of gastric mucus production and suppression of inflammatory mediators, via pro-inflammatory cytokines and (ii) modulating the oxidative stress response. The usefulness of Boesenbergia rotunda in folk medicine in treating ulcers partially could be due to the presence of this chalcone.


Perinatal mortality risk factors in dairy calves.
Dairy calf mortality is an area of interest worldwide as animal welfare continues to increase in importance to the consumer. Perinatal mortality, defined as death of a full term calf either during parturition or shortly after (up to 48 h), is a major component of overall calf mortality with estimates of losses in large scale multi-farm studies suggesting that 2.4-9.7% of calves are lost across a wide range of different systems. In order to reduce perinatal mortality, we need to understand the key risk factors which influence its prevalence. This review explores the literature on risk factors associated with perinatal mortality, with a particular focus on the limitations of the published literature, applicability of the data, and the challenges faced when trying to compare data across studies. Overall, calves that are male, born to primiparous dams, are twins or had to be assisted during the calving process, are at a higher risk of mortality.


A 12-month evaluation of health-related quality of life outcomes of methadone maintenance program in a rural Malaysian sample.
This paper focuses on the evaluation of addiction program effectiveness which involves changes in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) profile. This study was conducted from 2007 until 2010 at a rural methadone maintenance treatment center in Malaysia to assess HRQoL outcomes before and after treatment. Fifty-seven respondents completed the WHOQOL-BREF at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months postintervention. Data were analyzed using nonparametric techniques (SPSS 15). Significant and positive HRQoL impacts were demonstrated. Future studies with larger sample are encouraged. This study was supported by the Ministry of Health Malaysia.


Clinical practice guidelines and consensus for the screening of breast cancer: A systematic appraisal of their quality and reporting.
Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and consensus statements (CSs) are being promoted to provide high-quality healthcare guidance. This systematic review has assessed the breast cancer (BC) screening CPGs and CSs quality and reporting. A search of bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus and CDSR), 12 guideline databases and 51 professional society websites was performed without language restrictions from January 2017 to June 2020, following prospective registration (Prospero no.: CRD42020203807). AGREE II (% of maximum score) and RIGHT (% of total 35 items) appraised quality and reporting individually, extracting data in duplicate; reviewer agreement was 98% and 93%, respectively. Forty guidances with median overall quality and reporting 51% (interquartile range [IQR] 39-63) and 48% (IQR 35-65), respectively. Twenty-two (55%) and 20 (50%) did not reach the minimum standards (scores <50%). The guidances that deployed systematic reviews had better quality (74.2% vs. 46.9%; p = 0.001) and reporting (80.5% vs. 42.6%; p = 0.001). Guidances reporting a tool referral scored better (AGREE II: 72.8% vs. 43.1%, p = 0.002; RIGHT: 75.0% vs. 46.9%, p = 0.004). BC screening CPGs and CSs suffered poor quality and reporting. More than half did not reach the minimum standards. They would improve if systematic reviews were used to underpin the recommendations made.


Scalable trapping of single nanosized extracellular vesicles using plasmonics.
Heterogeneous nanoscale extracellular vesicles (EVs) are of significant interest for disease detection, monitoring, and therapeutics. However, trapping these nano-sized EVs using optical tweezers has been challenging due to their small size. Plasmon-enhanced optical trapping offers a solution. Nevertheless, existing plasmonic tweezers have limited throughput and can take tens of minutes for trapping for low particle concentrations. Here, we present an innovative approach called geometry-induced electrohydrodynamic tweezers (GET) that overcomes these limitations. GET generates multiple electrohydrodynamic potentials, allowing parallel transport and trapping of single EVs within seconds. By integrating nanoscale plasmonic cavities at the center of each GET trap, single EVs can be placed near plasmonic cavities, enabling instant plasmon-enhanced optical trapping upon laser illumination without detrimental heating effects. These non-invasive scalable hybrid nanotweezers open new horizons for high-throughput tether-free plasmon-enhanced single EV trapping and spectroscopy. Other potential areas of impact include nanoplastics characterization, and scalable hybrid integration for quantum photonics.


A simple tool to predict end-stage renal disease within 1 year in elderly adults with advanced chronic kidney disease.
To develop and validate a model to predict 1-year risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in elderly subjects with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD). Retrospective. Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Individuals aged 65 and older with CKD with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) less than 30 mL/min per 1.73 m(2) . The outcome was ESRD within 1 year of the index eGFR. Cox regression was used to develop a predictive model (Veterans Affairs (VA) risk score) that was validated in a separate cohort. Of the 1,866 participants in the developmental cohort, 77 developed ESRD. Risk factors for ESRD in the final model were age, congestive heart failure, systolic blood pressure, eGFR, potassium, and albumin. In the validation cohort, the C index for the VA risk score was 0.823. The risk for developing ESRD at 1 year from lowest to highest tertile was 0.08%, 2.7%, and 11.3% (P < .001). The C-index for the recently published Tangri model in the validation cohort was 0.780. A new model using commonly available clinical measures shows excellent ability to predict the onset of ESRD within the next year in elderly adults. The Tangri model also had good predictive ability. Individuals and physicians can use these risk models to inform decisions regarding preparation for renal replacement therapy in individuals with advanced CKD.


The mitochondrial genome of the Japanese freshwater crab, Geothelphusa dehaani (Crustacea: Brachyura): evidence for its evolution via gene duplication.
The translocation of tRNA genes has occurred frequently among multiple independent arthropod lineages. However, the mechanisms of such gene rearrangement are still unclear. In this study we sequenced the nearly complete mitochondrial genome of the Japanese freshwater crab, Geothelphusa dehaani (Decapoda, Brachyura, Potamidae). Its size is relatively large (app. 24 kb) for higher animal mtDNA and is due to the presence of many intergenic noncoding sequences (IGNs), one of which is a large repeat region (>7.0 kb). Excluding the repeat region and the putative control region (514 bp), the total size of IGNs (1953 bp) is still the largest reported in arthropods. In comparison to the proposed ancestral arrangement for the insect-crustacean clade, G. dehaani displays changes in the positional order for three tRNA genes (trnQ, trnL(uur) and trnH). At the putative former and current locations for trnQ and trnH, there are IGNs with high similarities to corresponding sequences in the ancestral arrangement. This suggests the occurrence of partial duplication, followed by a loss of function for one copy of these two duplicated genes in G. dehaani. Furthermore, three trnLs (one trnL(uur) and two trnL(cun)s) are found in G. dehaani; their sequences are highly similar to each other (70.8-82.5%) and similar to the trnL(cun) of other arthropods. This suggests that duplication of trnL(cun) occurred at least twice, and the current trnL(uur) of G. dehaani arose by a subsequent anticodon alternation. These observations provide direct evidence for the "duplication-random loss" model for mtDNA gene rearrangement. Comparisons with other available Brachyuran data(http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/genomes/ORGANELLES/6657.html) suggest that two of the three tRNA translocations are unique in G. dehaani. For G. dehaani, where duplications have occurred but deletion of extra sequences is incomplete, the IGNs found at the ancestral or trans-locations are likely to be footprints of relatively recent mitochondrial genome evolution.


Early immunization of neonates with trivalent oral poliovirus vaccine.
Described is the evaluation in Brazil of the immune response of early immunization with trivalent oral poliovirus vaccine (TOPV). A total of 85 normal neonates from São Paulo were assigned one of the following immunization schedules: group A--one dose of TOPV at birth and subsequent doses at 2, 4, and 9 months of age; or group B--one dose of TOPV at 2, 4 and 6 months of age. Blood samples were collected sequentially from the mother at delivery, from the umbilical cord, and from the child at 2, 4, 6, 9 and 12 months of age for assay of poliovirus neutralizing antibodies. Administration of TOPV at birth, in addition to establishing immunity against poliomyelitis at an earlier stage, produced a superior immune response to poliovirus type 3. At the end of the first year, the proportion of susceptible individuals was 3.7% in group A and 25.9% in group B. When immunization against poliomyelitis is started at birth, excellent seroconversion rates are obtained from the third dose onward.


[Hypofractioned radiotherapy in elderly patient with glioblastoma].
Glioblastoma is the most frequent primary brain tumor, with more than half of all patients being at least 65 years old. The treatment of the elderly in this pathology represents therefore a considerable challenge for oncologists and radiation therapists. However, in most clinical trials, age is a non-eligible criterial. In the last ten years, geriatric therapeutic trials have been multiplied. The treatment of glioblastoma consists of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. In elderly patients, the evaluation of performans status and the molecular characteristics of the tumor are important factors in order to propose the appropriate treatment in terms of efficacy and toxicity.


Loneliness across time and space.
People feel lonely when their social needs are not met by the quantity and quality of their social relationships. Most research has focused on individual-level predictors of loneliness. However, macro-level factors related to historical time and geographic space might influence loneliness through their effects on individual-level predictors. In this Review, we summarize empirical findings on differences in the prevalence of loneliness across historical time and geographical space and discuss four groups of macro-level factors that might account for these differences: values and norms, family and social lives, technology and digitalization, and living conditions and availability of individual resources. Regarding historical time, media reports convey that loneliness is on the rise, but the empirical evidence is mixed, at least before the COVID-19 pandemic. Regarding geographical space, national differences in loneliness are linked to differences in cultural values (such as individualism) but might also be due to differences in the sociodemographic composition of the population. Research on within-country differences in loneliness is scarce but suggests an influence of neighbourhood characteristics. We conclude that a more nuanced understanding of the effects of macro-level factors on loneliness is necessary because of their relevance for public policy and propose specific directions for future research.


Stability analysis of stochastic gradient descent for homogeneous neural networks and linear classifiers.
We prove new generalization bounds for stochastic gradient descent when training classifiers with invariances. Our analysis is based on the stability framework and covers both the convex case of linear classifiers and the non-convex case of homogeneous neural networks. We analyze stability with respect to the normalized version of the loss function used for training. This leads to investigating a form of angle-wise stability instead of euclidean stability in weights. For neural networks, the measure of distance we consider is invariant to rescaling the weights of each layer. Furthermore, we exploit the notion of on-average stability in order to obtain a data-dependent quantity in the bound. This data-dependent quantity is seen to be more favorable when training with larger learning rates in our numerical experiments. This might help to shed some light on why larger learning rates can lead to better generalization in some practical scenarios.


Improving the magnetoelectric performance of Metglas/PZT laminates by annealing in a magnetic field.
A comprehensive investigation of magnetostriction optimization in Metglas 2605SA1 ribbons is performed to enhance magnetoelectric performance. We explore a range of annealing conditions to relieve remnant stress and align the magnetic domains in the Metglas, while minimizing unwanted crystallization. The magnetostriction coefficient, magnetoelectric coefficient, and magnetic domain alignment are correlated to optimize magnetoelectric performance. We report on direct magnetostriction observed by in-plane Doppler vibrometer and domain imagining using scanning electron microscopy with polarization analysis for a range of annealing conditions. We find that annealing in an oxygen-free environment at 400 °C for 30 min yields an optimal magnetoelectric coefficient, magnetostriction and magnetostriction coefficient. The optimized ribbons had a magnetostriction of 50.6 ± 0.2 μm m-1 and magnetoelectric coefficient of 79.3 ± 1.5 μm m-1 mT-1. The optimized Metglas 2605SA1 ribbons and PZT-5A (d31 mode) sensor achieves a magnetic noise floor of approximately 600 pT Hz-1/2 at 100 Hz and a magnetoelectric coefficient of 6.1 ± 0.03 MV m-1 T-1.


The safety and tolerability of epacadostat alone and in combination with pembrolizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors: results from a first-in-Japanese phase I study (KEYNOTE-434).
Part A of the open-label, phase I KEYNOTE-434 study evaluated the safety and tolerability of epacadostat, an indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-1 inhibitor, alone and in combination with pembrolizumab in Japanese patients with advanced solid tumors. Japanese patients with refractory/recurrent metastatic or locally advanced tumors were enrolled. Cohort 1 received oral epacadostat 25 mg or 100 mg twice daily (BID) and subsequently received epacadostat in combination with intravenous pembrolizumab 200 mg every 3 weeks. Cohort 2 received epacadostat 25 mg or 100 mg BID with pembrolizumab 200 mg every 3 weeks. The primary objective was evaluation of safety and tolerability using a modified toxicity probability interval method. Secondary objectives were pharmacokinetic (PK) and pharmacodynamic profiles of epacadostat alone and in combination with pembrolizumab. Six patients were enrolled in cohort 1 (epacadostat 25 mg, n = 3; epacadostat 100 mg, n = 3); none experienced dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs). Nine patients were enrolled in cohort 2 (epacadostat 25 mg and pembrolizumab, n = 3; epacadostat 100 mg and pembrolizumab, n = 6); one patient receiving epacadostat 100 mg and pembrolizumab experienced grade 4 rhabdomyolysis-a DLT. Grade 3 or 4 treatment-related adverse events occurred in two patients (13.3%). There were no treatment-related deaths. Pembrolizumab had no impact on epacadostat PK and vice versa. The PK profile of pembrolizumab in the current study was comparable with historical pembrolizumab PK data. Epacadostat in combination with pembrolizumab was generally safe and well tolerated among Japanese patients with advanced solid tumors. Clinical trial registration NCT02862457.


Direct amygdaloid projections to the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve: a light and electron microscopic study in the rat.
The projections from the central nucleus of the amygdala to the dorsal vagal complex were examined in the rat by means of anterograde and retrograde axonal transport of wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish peroxidase and anterograde degeneration. Light microscopic findings confirmed that the amygdala projects to the dorsal motor nucleus (DMV) and the nucleus of the solitary tract. Electron microscopic experiments demonstrated degenerating axosomatic and axodendritic terminals in the DMV following electrolytic lesions in the central nucleus of the amygdala.


A combination of ion exchange and electrochemical reduction for nitrate removal from drinking water. Part I: nitrate removal using a selective anion exchanger in the bicarbonate form with reuse of the regenerant solution.
The process of selective nitrate removal from drinking water by means of ion exchange was studied. A commercial strong base anion exchanger with triethylammonium (-N+Et3) functional groups was used in the bicarbonate (HCO3-) and carbonate (CO3(2-)) form. The aim of this study was to optimize ion-exchanger regeneration in view of the subsequent electrochemical reduction of nitrates in the spent regenerant solution. The effects of ion-exchanger form, concentration of regenerant solution, and presence of nitrates, chlorides, and sulphates in the regenerant solution were studied. The strong base anion exchanger in HCO3- form that was investigated was able to treat 270 bed volumes of model water solution containing 124 mg dm(-3) nitrates. To achieve adequate regeneration of the saturated anion exchanger, it is necessary to use approximately 30 bed volumes of fresh 1-M sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) regenerant solution. The presence of residual 50-mg dm(-3) nitrates in the regenerant solution, treated by electrolysis, resulted in an increase in the dose of regenerant solution to 35 bed volumes and a decrease in the subsequent sorption run of approximately 13%. The volume of applied regenerant solution was high, but the consumption of NaHCO3 for regeneration was low.


Comparison of Adsorption Performance of Biochar Derived from Urban Biowaste Materials for Removal of Heavy Metals.
This study investigated the adsorption performance of biochar produced from different types of urban biowaste material viz., sugarcane bagasse (SB), brinjal stem (BS), and citrus peel (CP) for removal of heavy metal ions (Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd) from aqueous solution. The effects of biowaste material, dosage of biochar, solution pH, and initial concentration of heavy metal ions and isotherm models were performed to understand the possible adsorption mechanisms. The results showed that the biochar derived from BS and SB removes Cu (99.94%), Cr (99.57%), and Cd (99.77%) whereas biochar derived from CP removes Pb (99.59%) and Cu (99.90%) more efficiently from the aqueous solution. Biochar derived from BS showed maximum adsorption capacity for Cu (246.31 mg g-1), Pb (183.15 mg g-1), and Cr (71.89 mg g-1) while the biochar derived from CP showed highest for Cd (15.46 mg g-1). Moreover, biochar derived from BS and SB has more polar functional groups and less hydrophobicity than the biochar derived from CP. This study reveals that solution pH and biochar doses play a major role in removal of heavy metal ions from aqueous solution. The results of Langmuir model fitted well for Pb and Cu while the Freundlich model for Cr and Cd. Our study concludes that the biochar derived from different biowaste materials adsorbs heavy metal ions majorly through surface complexation and precipitation processes. The results of this study will be very useful in selecting the effective urban biowaste material for making biochar for heavy metal removal from the aqueous environment.


Synthesis, fluorine-18 radiolabeling, and in vitro characterization of 1-iodophenyl-N-methyl-N-fluoroalkyl-3-isoquinoline carboxamide derivatives as potential PET radioligands for imaging peripheral benzodiazepine receptor.
The isoquinoline carboxamide derivative 1-(2-chlorophenyl)-N-methyl-N-(1-methylpropyl)-3-isoquinoline carboxamide (PK11195) has been shown to bind strongly and selectively to the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) binding sites. A series of PK11195 analogues have been synthesized and biologically characterized. The affinities of the analogues for the PBR were determined using in vitro competitive binding assays with [(3)H]PK11195 in rat kidney mitochondrial membranes. The results showed that the 1-(2-iodophenyl)-N-methyl-N-(3-fluoropropyl)-3-isoquinoline carboxamide (9a) was the most potent compound (K(i)=0.26nM) of this series and is an excellent lead ligand for additional studies for labeling with fluorine-18 to determine whether it possesses the desired in vivo performance in non-human primates by PET imaging. Thus, radiolabeling of 9a with fluorine-18 was developed.


Atoh1 expression and function during auditory hair cell regeneration in post-hatch chickens.
Loss of hair cells in humans leads to irreversible hearing deficits, since auditory hair cells are not replaced. In contrast, hair cells are regenerated in the auditory epithelium of mature birds after damage by non-sensory supporting cells that transdifferentiate into hair cells by mitotic and/or non-mitotic mechanisms. Factors controlling these processes are poorly understood. The basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor ATOH1 is both necessary and sufficient for developmental hair cell differentiation, but it is unclear if it plays the same role in the mitotic and non-mitotic pathways in hair cell regeneration. We examined Atoh1 expression and function during hair cell regeneration in chickens. Atoh1 transcripts were increased in many supporting cells in the damaged auditory epithelium shortly after ototoxin administration and later became restricted to differentiating hair cells. Fate-mapping in vitro using an Atoh1 enhancer reporter demonstrated that only 56% of the supporting cells that spontaneously upregulate Atoh1 enhancer activity after damage acquired the hair cell fate. Inhibition of notch signaling using a gamma secretase antagonist stimulated an increase in Atoh1 reporter activity and induced a higher proportion of supporting cells with Atoh1 activity (73%) to differentiate as hair cells. Forced overexpression of Atoh1 in supporting cells triggered 66% of them to acquire the hair cell fate and nearly tripled their likelihood of cell cycle entry. These findings demonstrate that Atoh1 is broadly upregulated in supporting cells after damage, but a substantial proportion of supporting cells with Atoh1 activation fails to acquire hair cell features, in part due to gamma secretase-dependent activities.


Effect of route of administration of dinoprost tromethamine on plasma profiles of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2α and progesterone in lactating Holstein cows.
Lutalyse HighCon (dinoprost tromethamine; Zoetis) has been approved for use both intramuscularly and subcutaneously in lactating dairy cows, although the effect of route of administration on circulating 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2α (PGFM), the metabolite of PGF2α, has not been evaluated. Multiparous, lactating Holstein cows were submitted to an Ovsynch protocol in which the last GnRH treatment (G2) was designated as d 0. Cows were fitted with indwelling jugular catheters on d 6 and administered 25 mg of dinoprost tromethamine (2 mL of Lutalyse HighCon) on d 7 either subcutaneously in the neck (SC; n = 6) or intramuscularly in the semitendinosus muscle (IM; n = 6). Blood samples were collected every 15 min after treatment for 1.75 h, then every 2 h for 48 h, and at 60 and 72 h, with the last time point corresponding to when cows would have received timed AI at 72 h within an Ovsynch protocol. Circulating PGFM concentrations were greater for SC than for IM cows from 15 to 90 min after treatment, which resulted in a greater area under the PGFM curve during the first 90 min after treatment (means ± SEM; 1,664 ± 129 pg·h/mL vs. 1,146 ± 177 pg·h/mL for SC vs. IM cows, respectively). This resulted in complete luteolysis in all but one cow in the SC treatment at 56 h, when GnRH would have been administered if dinoprost tromethamine had been administered as part of an Ovsynch protocol for timed AI. For cows that underwent complete luteal regression, circulating P4 did not differ between treatments at any time point. Thus, although SC cows had increased circulating PGFM 15 to 90 min after treatment, there was no difference in circulating P4 during induced luteolysis based on route of dinoprost tromethamine administration.


Blood-nerve transfer of albumin and its implications for the endoneurial microenvironment.
Blood-nerve transfer of plasma albumin was studied by measuring the permeability coefficient-surface area (PS) product of the blood-nerve barrier (BNB) to 125I-albumin in rat sciatic nerve using the i.v. bolus injection method. The calculated PS was 6.3 +/- 0.5 (S.E.M.) x 10(-7) ml.g-1.s-1. This value is smaller by more than an order of magnitude of that measured for sucrose and confirms the relative impermeance of the BNB to blood-borne solutes. From a review of the available evidence, it is concluded that normal blood-nerve exchange occurs predominantly across the endoneurial microvasculature, and the PS of the BNB reflects the permeability of capillaries to a greater extent than that of the perineurium. The only capillaries found to be less permeable than these are the cerebral capillaries. Proximo-distal differences (sciatic vs tibial) of the PS could not be detected. Blood-nerve albumin transfer was calculated at 1.2 mg.g-1.day-1, and the daily turnover of endoneurial albumin to be about 30%. It is postulated that small increases in PS of BNB to albumin lead to an elevation of endoneurial albumin concentration and, through the operation of Starling forces, subsequently produce endoneurial oedema. A major question posed by the results of this study is the identity of pathways for clearance of albumin and other macromolecules from the endoneurium.


Continuous measurement of left ventricular volume in rabbit, using a two-electrode catheter.
We developed a device for monitoring instantaneous left ventricular (LV) volume using an alternating-current excitation two-electrode conductance catheter. Instantaneous conductance between a pair of electrodes was amplified by a non-inverting circuit. The level of conductance was linearly related to changes in blood volume from 0.8 to 2.0 ml in a latex balloon (r2 = 0.95), and to changes in blood volume from 0.4 to 2.2 ml in a post-mortem rabbit left ventricle (r2 = 0.99). The difference between the maximal and minimal conductance of the LV in situ during a cardiac cycle was closely correlated with changes in stroke volume, measured by an electromagnetic flow probe (r2 = 0.97). The endsystolic pressure-conductance relation (ESPCR) was highly linear (r2 = 0.92). Changes of the slope (Ees) of the ESPCR correlated directionally with changes of the time derivative of LV pressure (LVdP/dt) during intravenous infusions of dobutamine and propranolol. Accordingly, the two-electrode conductance catheter was useful in vivo in rabbits for continuously assessing changes in the LV volume.


Prediction model and demonstration of regional agricultural carbon emissions based on Isomap-ACO-ET: a case study of Guangdong Province, China.
Scientific analysis of regional agricultural carbon emission prediction models and empirical studies are of great practical significance to the realization of low-carbon agriculture, which can help revitalize and build up ecological and beautiful countryside in China. This paper takes agriculture in Guangdong Province, China, as the research object, and uses the extended STIPAT model to construct an indicator system for the factors influencing agricultural carbon emissions in Guangdong. Based on this system, a combined Isomap-ACO-ET prediction model combing the isometric mapping algorithm (Isomap), ant colony algorithm (ACO) and extreme random tree algorithm (ET) was used to predict agriculture carbon emissions in Guangdong Province under five scenarios. Effective predictions can be made for agricultural carbon emissions in Guangdong Province, which are expected to fluctuate between 11,142,200 tons and 11,386,000 tons in 2030. And compared with other machine learning and neural network models, the Isomap-ACO-ET model has a better prediction performance with an MSE of 0.00018 and an accuracy of 98.7%. To develop low-carbon agriculture in Guangdong Province, we should improve farming methods, reduce the intensity of agrochemical application, strengthen the development and promotion of agricultural energy-saving and emission reduction technologies and low-carbon energy sources, reduce the intensity of carbon emissions from agricultural energy consumption, optimize the agricultural planting structure, and develop green agricultural products and agro-ecological tourism according to local conditions. This will promote the development of agriculture in Guangdong Province in a green and sustainable direction.


An Approach to Electrokinetic Removal of Cr(VI) from Soil and Kaolin Samples.
The present study examines electroremediation's efficiency on Cr(VI) contaminated samples. Electrokinetic experiments were performed applying a DC voltage of 30 V to a cylindrical sample of 30 cm length and 4 cm diameter, using Na2SO4 as background electrolyte solution. The first two experiments, one with kaolin and one with soil, were carried out without applying any pH adjustment in the anode or the cathode compartment, using 0.01 M Na2SO4. Further experiments were carried out increasing the electrolyte's concentration and using Mg(OH)2 to neutralize the generated acidity in the anode. The decrease in Cr(VI) concentration in the soil samples is partly taking place because of its reduction, most likely due to the presence of organic matter. This is indicated by the mass balance calculations which were based on the analyses of treated solid samples and electrolyte solutions. İn the kaolin samples electromigration is the main factor resulting in the accumulation of Cr(VI) in the anodic solution.


Effects of sex, body mass index, and body size on the outcome of coronary artery bypass surgery: Iranian experience.
Sex, body mass index, and body surface area have been proposed as important determinants of outcome after coronary artery bypass graft surgery. In a retrospective study, the archived files of the patients who had undergone isolated coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) in our center from January 2005 to September 2008 were evaluated. The data regarding the patients' body surface area (BSA), body mass index (BMI), and laboratory tests as well as their demographic data and the number of deaths, duration of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, and duration of hospital admissions were collected. Duration of ICU stay >4 days and death were considered for the final outcomes to present the morbidity and mortality, respectively. In total, the files of 1223 patients were reviewed. BSA was different between men and women, but the differences in mortality and morbidity were not statistically significant. The difference between the mean BMI in men and women was not significant (P = 0.72). In all, 11 patients (9 men, 2 women) died during the hospital stay, but no significant difference was observed between the men and the women (P = 0.59). Among the patients, 6.5% stayed >4 days in the ICU (50 men, 20 women) with no significant difference between the two (P = 0.482). No significant differences were found between the BSA and BMI of the patients who died and those who were discharged from the hospital (P = 0.088 and P = 0.321, respectively). There were no significant correlations between the duration of hospital stay and the BSA or BMI (P = 0.44 and P = 0.26, respectively). Sex, BMI, and BSA do not affect the outcome after CABG.


Junctional Hemorrhage Control for Tactical Combat Casualty Care.
During historic, as well as more recent, conflicts, most combat casualties who die from their injuries do so in the prehospital setting. Although many of the injuries incurred by these casualties are nonsurvivable, a number of injuries are still potentially survivable. Of those injuries that are potentially survivable, the majority are truncal, junctional, and extremity hemorrhage. Novel and effective approaches directed toward prehospital hemorrhage control have emerged in recent years, some of which can prove useful in the management of junctional hemorrhage whether in a military or civilian setting. An initial comprehensive review of junctional tourniquets was conducted by the Department of Defense Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care in 2013. The objective of this article is to provide an updated review of junctional hemorrhage control efforts and devices as they apply primarily to military prehospital trauma management and Tactical Combat Casualty Care and to prompt further consideration and application of these devices in nonmilitary prehospital, austere, and wilderness environments. Four junctional tourniquets are currently cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for junctional hemorrhage control, and 1 junctional tourniquet is also FDA-cleared for pelvic stabilization. As junctional hemorrhage control efforts progress, scientists need to continue to conduct research and clinicians need to continue to monitor the performance of junctional tourniquets, especially in conjunction with morbidity and mortality outcomes, for both military and civilian trauma patients.


Estimation of the future remnant liver function is a better tool to predict post-hepatectomy liver failure than platelet-based liver scores.
Recently, there has been increasing interest in the preoperative prediction and prevention of post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). This is a particular concern in colorectal liver metastases (CRLM), when surgery follows potentially hepatotoxic chemotherapy. Platelet-based liver scores (PBLS) such as APRI and FIB-4 are predictive of chemotherapy-associated liver injury (CALI) and PHLF. Estimation of the future liver remnant function (eFLRF) by combining 99mTc-Mebrofenin Hepatobiliary Scintigraphy (HBSBSA) with future liver remnant volume ratio (FLRV%), is predictive of PHLF and related mortality. We hypothesized that a HBSBSA based formula was a better predictor for PHLF than PBLS in chemotherapy-pretreated CRLM. Between 2012 and 2016, 140 patients underwent liver resection for CRLM following systemic therapy. HBSBSA, FLRV%, eFLRF and PBLS were calculated and compared for their value in predicting PHLF. eFLRF and FLRV% had a better predictive value for PHLF than HBSBSA alone and APRI and FIB-4 (AUC = 0.800, 0.843 versus 0.652, 0.635 and 0.658 respectively). In a subgroup analysis (Oxaliplatin all, Oxaliplatin ≥ 6 cycles, Irinotecan all and Irinotecan ≥ 6 cycles), eFLRF was the only factor predictive for PHLF in all subgroups (all: p ≤ 0.05). Prediction of HBSBSA for chemotherapy associated steato-hepatitis (CASH) reached almost significance (p = 0.06). FIB-4 was predictive for sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) (p = 0.011). Only weak correlation was found between HBSBSA and PBLS. eFLRF is a better predictor of PHLF than PBLS or HBSBSA alone. PBLS seem to measure other aspects of liver function or damage than HBSBSA.


Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation without target temperature management for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients prolongs the therapeutic time window: a retrospective analysis of a nationwide multicentre observational study in Japan.
Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a promising therapy for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) compared with conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CCPR). The no and low-flow time (NLT), the interval from collapse to reperfusion to starting ECMO or to the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in CCPR, is associated with the neurological outcome of OHCA. Because the effects of target temperature management (TTM) on the outcomes of ECPR are unclear, we compared the neurological outcomes of OHCA between ECPR and CCPR without TTM. We performed retrospective subanalyses of the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine OHCA registry. Witnessed cases of adult cardiogenic OHCA without TTM were selected. We performed univariate, multivariable and propensity score analyses to compare the neurological outcomes after ECPR or CCPR in all eligible patients and in patients with NLT of > 30 min or > 45 min. We analysed 2585 cases. Propensity score analysis showed negative result in all patients (odds ratio 0.328 [95% confidence interval 0.141-0.761], P = 0.010). However, significant associated with better neurological outcome was shown in patients with NLT of > 30 min or > 45 min (odds ratio 2.977 [95% confidence interval 1.056-8.388], P = 0.039, odds ratio 5.099 [95% confidence interval 1.259-20.657], P = 0.023, respectively). This study revealed significant differences in the neurological outcomes between ECPR and CCPR without TTM, in patients with NLT of > 30 min.


Paramyxoviruses: different receptors - different mechanisms of fusion.
Paramyxovirus-mediated membrane fusion usually requires an interaction between the viral-attachment and -fusion proteins. The mechanism by which this interaction regulates fusion differs between paramyxoviruses that bind to sialic acid-containing receptors and those that recognize specific proteins. The recently solved structure of the globular head of the measles virus hemagglutinin suggests that this difference might be related to the location of the receptor-binding sites on the attachment proteins of the two classes of paramyxoviruses.


Electrochemical determination of uric acid at ordered mesoporous carbon functionalized with ferrocenecarboxylic acid-modified electrode.
Ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) functionalized with ferrocenecarboxylic acid (Fc) was used to modify the glassy carbon (GC) electrode. The characterization of OMC-Fc shows that, after anchoring ferrocene on the mesoporous, ordered mesostructure of the material (OMC-Fc) remains intact and Fc is electrochemically accessible. The obtained OMC-Fc-modified electrode was used to investigate the electrochemical behavior of uric acid (UA). UA oxidation is catalyzed by this electrode in aqueous buffer solution (pH 7.3) with a decrease of 200mV in overpotential compared to GC electrode. The detection and determination of UA in the presence of ascorbic acid (AA), the main interferent, were achieved. The voltammetric signals due to UA and AA were well separated with a potential difference of 308mV, a separation that can allow the simultaneous determination of UA and AA. With amperometric method, at a constant potential of 375mV, the catalytic current of UA versus its concentration shows a good linearity in the range 60-390microM (R=0.998) with a detection limit of 1.8microM (S/N=3). These results are not influenced by the presence of AA in the sample solution. With good stability and reproducibility, the present OMC-Fc-modified electrode was applied in the determination of UA content in urine sample and satisfactory results were obtained.


Single-base resolution mapping of 2'-O-methylation sites by an exoribonuclease-enriched chemical method.
2'-O-methylation (Nm) is one of the most abundant RNA epigenetic modifications and plays a vital role in the post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression. Current Nm mapping approaches are normally limited to highly abundant RNAs and have significant technical hurdles in mRNAs or relatively rare non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). Here, we developed a new method for enriching Nm sites by using RNA exoribonuclease and periodate oxidation reactivity to eliminate 2'-hydroxylated (2'-OH) nucleosides, coupled with sequencing (Nm-REP-seq). We revealed several novel classes of Nm-containing ncRNAs as well as mRNAs in humans, mice, and drosophila. We found that some novel Nm sites are present at fixed positions in different tRNAs and are potential substrates of fibrillarin (FBL) methyltransferase mediated by snoRNAs. Importantly, we discovered, for the first time, that Nm located at the 3'-end of various types of ncRNAs and fragments derived from them. Our approach precisely redefines the genome-wide distribution of Nm and provides new technologies for functional studies of Nm-mediated gene regulation.


Use of Spreadsheets for Research Data Collection and Preparation: A Primer.
Successful research results from the combination of multiple elements, including an appropriate research question, study design, research method, statistical analysis, and interpretation of results. One element of research that is easy to overlook is proper data collection and preparation for analysis. If data collection or preparation is inadequately planned or executed, the data may not be analyzable by a statistician without significant effort spent on data cleaning. Even worse, the data may contain problems that can be resolved only through time-consuming revision or repeat data collection. In this review, we present some practical guidelines and best practices for preparing data that can reduce the work of subsequent analysis.


Distinct nuclear factor-kappaB/Rel proteins have opposing modulatory effects in glutamate-induced cell death in HT22 cells.
Members of the nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB)/Rel family (p50, p52, p65 (RelA), RelB and c-Rel) is sequestered in the cytoplasm through its tight association with the inhibitor of NF-kappaB (IkappaB). NF-kappaB has been shown to function as key regulators of either cell death or survival in neurons after activation of the cells by various extracellular signals. In the study presented here, we investigated whether the selective activation of diverse NF-kappaB/Rel family members in HT22 cells might lead to distinct effects on glutamate-induced cell death. Exposing HT22 cells to glutamate, which blocks cystine uptake into the cells via inhibition of the glutamate-cystine antiporter, resulted in a transient activation of IkappaB and NF-kappaB/Rel and caused delayed cell death. Aspirin, which has been shown to block phosphorylation of the IkappaB component of the cytoplasmic NF-kappaB complex, significantly suppressed glutamate-induced cell death, whereas the NF-kappaB decoy oligonucleotide potentiated it. The inhibition of NF-kappaB/Rel protein expression by antisense oligonucleotides showed that p65 is involved in glutamate-mediated cell death, whereas p50 is involved in inhibitory pathways of the cell death. These findings suggest that in HT22 cells, the balance between promoting and presenting cell death to glutamate-induced oxidative stress relies on the activation of distinct NF-kappaB proteins.


Decision analyses in consideration of treatment strategies for patients with biochemical failure after curative therapy on clinically localized prostate cancer in the prostate-specific antigen era.
The introduction of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing has not only shortened the time required to make diagnosis but changed the treatment strategies of localized prostate cancer. We conducted the decision analysis on its treatment focusing on patients with biochemical failure. We developed a Markov model to calculate life expectancy (LE) and quality-adjusted life expectancy (QALE) stratified by age, comorbidity and tumor characteristics in patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer or biochemical failure after curative therapy. For newly diagnosed patients, three treatment strategies were considered as primary managements: radial prostatectomy (RP), external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and watchful waiting (WW). Managements considered for biochemical failure were: after RP, salvage radiotherapy (SRT), salvage hormonal therapy (SHT) and WW; and after EBRT, SHT and WW. Transition probabilities in the Markov model were derived from published studies. Quality of life (QOL) data to estimate QALE score were derived from 323 patients with prostate cancer. For patients with Gleason 2-6 cancer at diagnosis, WW yielded the greatest number of QALE. For patients with Gleason 7 cancer, it was controversial whether curative therapy was the preferred strategy. For patients with Gleason 8-10 cancer, curative therapy yielded the greatest number of QALE in younger patients without severe comorbidity. Patients' benefit from salvage therapy for biochemical failure after curative therapy depended on age, comorbidities, tumor characteristics and QOL effect. Our findings support the need for various treatment options, taking into consideration the patient's age, comorbidity and the QOL effect in the aging society.


Therapeutic application of sequence-specific binding molecules for novel genome editing tools.
Genome editing has been expected to widely increase the available treatment options for various diseases and permit pharmaceutical interventions in previously untreatable conditions. The availability of genome editing tools was dramatically increased by the development of the CRISPR-Cas9 system. However, a number of issues limit the use of the CRISPR-Cas9 system and other gene-editing tools in the clinical treatment of diseases. This review summarized the history and types of genome editing tools and limitations of their use. In addition, the study addressed several next-generation technologies aiming to overcome the limitations of current gene therapy protocols in an effort to accelerate the clinical development of potential treatment options. This review has provided an extensive foundation of the current state of genome editing technology and its clinical development. This review also indicate that the study additionally highlighted the need for multidisciplinary approaches to overcome current bottlenecks in the development of genome editing.


HPTLC/HPLC-mass spectrometry identification and NMR characterization of major flavonoids of wild lemongrass (Cymbopogon giganteus) collected in Burkina Faso.
Cymbopogon giganteus is a medicinal plant from Burkina Faso whose leaves are used in many traditional recipes to treat several diseases. However, no scientific studies have been reported on the analysis of bioactive molecules of the plant. It is therefore for the first time that flavonoids are isolated from the leaves of the Burkina Faso species. The aim was to quantify, isolate and characterize the major flavonoids in methanol extracts of the plant leaves by spectrophotometry, chromatography and NMR respectively. Flavonoid content analysis showed values ranging from 134 to 270 μg QE/mg extract. HPTLC-MS identified six peaks corresponding to phenolic compounds. By a succession of chromatography on column and by chemical, physicochemical and physical methods, we could isolate and characterize three flavonoids: epicatechin, luteolin 8-C-glucosid and luteolin 6-C-glucosid which structures were characterized by NMR. This study has provided relevant results to contribute to the knowledge of bio-active molecules of the local flora of Burkina Faso for their consideration as an alternative to synthetic products in various fields.


Dissipative dynamics of optomagnonic nonclassical features via anti-Stokes optical pulses: squeezing, blockade, anti-correlation, and entanglement.
We propose a feasible experimental model to investigate the generation and characterization of nonclassical states in a cavity optomagnonic system consisting of a ferromagnetic YIG sphere that simultaneously supports both the magnon mode and two whispering gallery modes of optical photons. The photons undergo the magnon-induced Brillouin light scattering, which is a well-established tool for the cavity-assisted manipulations of magnons as well as magnon spintronics. At first, we derive the desired interaction Hamiltonian under the influence of the anti-Stokes scattering process and then proceed to analyze the dynamical evolution of quantum statistics of photons and magnons as well as their intermodal entanglement. The results show that both photons and magnons generally acquire some nonclassical features, e.g., the strong antibunching and anti-correlation. Interestingly, the system may experience the perfect photon and magnon blockade phenomena, simultaneously. Besides, the nonclassical features may be protected against the unwanted environmental effects for a relatively long time, especially, in the weak driving field regime and when the system is initiated with a small number of particles. However, it should be noted that some fast quantum-classical transitions may occur in-between. Although the unwanted dissipative effects plague the nonclassical features, we show that this system can be adopted to prepare optomagnonic entangled states. The generation of entangled states depends on the initial state of the system and the interaction regime. The intermodal photon-magnon entanglement may be generated and pronounced, especially, if the system is initialized with low intensity even Schrödinger cat state in the strong coupling regime. The cavity-assisted manipulation of magnons is a unique and flexible mechanism that allows an interesting test bed for investigating the interdisciplinary contexts involving quantum optics and spintronics. Moreover, such a hybrid optomagnonic system may be used to design both on-demand single-photon and single-magnon sources and may find potential applications in quantum information processing.


Engineering Paper-Based Sensors for Zika Virus.
The emergence of Zika virus (ZIKV) infections in Latin America and Southeast Asia has created an urgent need for new, simple, yet sensitive, diagnostic tests. We highlight recent work using paper-based sensors coupled with CRISPR/Cas9 to detect ZIKV RNA as a new approach to achieve rapid development and deployment of field-ready diagnostics for emerging infectious diseases.


Three dimensional Graphene aerogels as binder-less, freestanding, elastic and high-performance electrodes for lithium-ion batteries.
In this work it is shown how porous graphene aerogels fabricated by an eco-friendly and simple technological process, could be used as electrodes in lithium- ion batteries. The proposed graphene framework exhibited excellent performance including high reversible capacities, superior cycling stability and rate capability. A significantly lower temperature (75 °C) than the one currently utilized in battery manufacturing was utilized for self-assembly hence providing potential significant savings to the industrial production. After annealing at 600 °C, the formation of Sn-C-O bonds between the SnO2 nanoparticles and the reduced graphene sheets will initiate synergistic effect and improve the electrochemical performance. The XPS patterns revealed the formation of Sn-C-O bonds. Both SEM and TEM imaging of the electrode material showed that the three dimensional network of graphene aerogels and the SnO2 particles were distributed homogeneously on graphene sheets. Finally, the electrochemical properties of the samples as active anode materials for lithium-ion batteries were tested and examined by constant current charge-discharge cycling and the finding fully described in this manuscript.


Epidemiology and medical cost of hospitalization due to rotavirus gastroenteritis among children under 5 years of age in the central-east of Tunisia.
Data on the economic burden of rotavirus infection in Tunisia are needed to inform the decision to include rotavirus in routine childhood immunizations. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological profile of rotavirus disease in central-east Tunisia and to estimate its hospital cost. In the first stage - the prospective collection of epidemiological data - we enrolled all patients < 5 years old who were hospitalized for acute diarrhoea at 5 university paediatric departments in central-east Tunisia during the period 2009-2011. Rotavirus was responsible for 65 (23.3%) of the 279 cases enrolled. In the second stage, cost data were collected retrospectively using an activity-based costing method from the medical records of the children who were positively diagnosed with rotavirus. The average cost of care per child was TD 433 (SD 134). This is a significant economic burden in Tunisia, where a safe and effective vaccine is available but not yet introduced to the immunization schedule.


Patients' medical knowledge and health counseling: what kind of information helps to make communication patient-centered?
To examine how physicians use information about a patient's background knowledge when both anticipating what a patient knows and producing actual answers in an email counseling setting. A fictitious patient used a (high vs. low) level of technical jargon in an email inquiry about diabetes and provided explicit information on prior knowledge (high vs. low) through self-report. Final-year medical students (semi-experts) were asked to gauge the patient's knowledge level (Experiment 1) and to produce an answer to the inquiry (Experiment 2). A total of N=150 participated in one of the two experiments. Information from word usage and self-reports was used differently in the two experiments. A patient self-reporting low knowledge was assumed to have less background knowledge than one reporting some knowledge about the domain. The technicality of the patient's word use influenced the answers: these were more technical when the inquiry used technical jargon instead of everyday language. Knowledge anticipation and communication behavior in email health care seem to be guided by different hints regarding the patient, suggesting the existence of two separate mechanisms. Beyond merely teaching physicians or health care providers to be aware of the patient's knowledge level when formulating a patient-centered response, on-task methods should support health care providers during the actual communication phase by providing, for instance, metacognitive prompts.


[Inherited polycythemia].
The majority of polycythemias occurs sporadically without any other familial case. Very occasionally polycythemia finds a familial support. This work is a review of the actual knowledge about inherited polycythemias. Although polycythemias linked to a anomaly of the haemoglobin affinity for oxygen are well understood (haemoglobin mutants with high oxygen affinity, 2-3 Diphosphoglycerate deficiency and methemoglobinemia), so called primary polycythemias (above all primary familial and congenital polycythemias) just begin to find an explanation for ten years (erythropoietin receptor gene mutation). Progressively, the part of really idiopathic polycythemias is smaller and smaller. Although most of mechanisms to explain congenital polycythemias are understood, some of them are still unresolved (Chuvash polycythemia, the majority of primary familial and congenital polycythemias).


Splenic metastases--not a frequent problem, but an underestimate location of metastases: epidemiology and course.
In the literature the frequency of splenic metastasis is documented very inconsistently. Only metastases of ovarial cancer are recommended for a surgical therapy. We examined the frequency of splenic metastasis in our hospital. The data of the Tumorboard Schwerin has been analyzed for splenic metastases. Based on hospital documents and contact via telephone the clinical course of the patients was also examined. A total of 6,137 of 29,364 patients with malignant tumors developed metastases (20.9%). We found 59 of these patients with splenic metastases (0.96%; 0.002% of all patients with malignant tumors). Men were more frequently concerned then women. The median age of the patients was 62 (26-88) years. There are only a few primary tumors metastasized in more than 1% into the spleen. A total of 47% of these metastases were synchronous, 53% metachronous. Only three patients had isolated splenic metastasis. Two further patients also had lymph node metastasis in the splenic hilus. Two other patients developed liver metastases after splenectomy. We performed four splenectomies because of splenic metastasis. The survival of splenic metastasis was median 3 (0-61) months. The published studies of the frequency of the splenic metastasis are autopsy studies, which are not usable for epidemiological statements because of selection bias. We show that splenic metastases arise in less than 1% of all metastases. A splenectomy in case of splenic metastases makes sense, if the metastases are isolated. It is also meaningful as a debulking procedure that would be followed by a chemotherapy, e.g. in case of an ovarial carcinoma. As a result the survival is increased for patients undergoing splenectomy (median survival 19.5 vs. 3 months).


Precursor frequency of antigen-specific T cells: effects of sensitization in vivo and in vitro.
Limiting dilution analysis (LDA) of primary lymphocyte cultures was used to determine the frequency of keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH)-specific precursors in the peripheral blood of unimmunized individuals. The KLH-specific precursor frequencies ranged from 1:150,000 to 1:340,000. In contrast, frequencies of KLH-specific cells in the blood from immune donors ranged from 1:25,000 to 1:42,000. LDA of KLH-stimulated primary cultures indicated that the frequency of KLH-specific cells increased with time in culture reaching a four- to fivefold expansion relative to the frequency obtained prior to culture. The data presented suggest that the enhanced kinetics of secondary T-cell responses observed after in vitro sensitization are due to a decrease in the proportion of lymphocytes which exhibit a suppressor phenotype.


[How I explore ... pruritus resulting from a tropical vacation].
Any journey or stay in a tropical country can lead to a variety of diseases with exotic background. One of the symptoms is represented by localized or generalized pruritus. It is associated or not associated with primary cutaneous lesions.


No short-term treatment effect of prism adaptation for spatial neglect: An inclusive meta-analysis.
Despite 25 years of research on the topic, there is still no consensus on whether prism adaptation is an effective therapy for visuospatial neglect. We have addressed this question through a meta-analysis of the most well-controlled studies on the topic. Our main meta-analytic model included studies with a placebo/sham/treatment-as-usual control group from which data from right hemisphere stroke patients and left-sided neglect could be aggregated. The short-term treatment effects on the two commonly used standard tests for neglect, the conventional Behavioural Inattention Test (BIT-C) and cancellation test scores were combined into one random effect model justified by the fact that 89% of the BIT-C score is determined by cancellation tasks. With this approach, we were able to obtain a larger and more homogeneous dataset than previous meta-analyses: sixteen studies including 430 patients. No evidence for beneficial effects of prism adaptation was found. The secondary meta-analysis including data from the Catherine Bergego Scale, a functional measure of activities of daily living, also found no evidence for the therapeutic effects of prism adaptation, although half as many studies were available for this analysis. The results were consistent after the removal of influential outliers, after studies with high risk-of-bias were excluded, and when an alternative measure of effect size was considered. These results do not support the routine use of prism adaptation as a therapy for spatial neglect.


Shear stress modulation of IL-1β-induced E-selectin expression in human endothelial cells.
Endothelial cells (ECs) are continuously exposed to hemodynamic forces imparted by blood flow. While it is known that endothelial behavior can be influenced by cytokine activation or fluid shear, the combined effects of these two independent agonists have yet to be fully elucidated. We investigated EC response to long-term inflammatory cues under physiologically relevant shear conditions via E-selectin expression where monolayers of human umbilical vein ECs were simultaneously exposed to laminar fluid shear and interleukin-1ß (shear-cytokine activation) in a parallel plate flow chamber. Naïve ECs exposed to shear-cytokine activation display significantly higher E-selectin expression for up to 24 hr relative to ECs activated in static (static-cytokine). Peak E-selectin expression occurred after 8-12 hr of continuous shear-cytokine activation contrary to the commonly observed 4-6 hr peak expression in ECs exposed to static-cytokine activation. Cells with some history of high shear conditioning exhibited either high or muted E-selectin expression depending on the durations of the shear pre-conditioning and the ensuing shear-cytokine activation. Overall, the presented data suggest that a high laminar shear enhances acute EC response to interleukin-1ß in naïve or shear-conditioned ECs as may be found in the pathological setting of ischemia/reperfusion injury while conferring rapid E-selectin downregulation to protect against chronic inflammation.


Role of interaction forces in controlling the stability and polishing performance of CMP slurries.
Chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) is an essential step in metal and dielectric planarization in multilayer microelectronic device fabrication. In the CMP process it is necessary to minimize the extent of surface defect formation while maintaining good planarity and optimal material removal rates. These requirements are met through the control of chemical and mechanical interactions during the polishing process by engineering the slurry chemistry, particulate properties, and stability. In this study, the performance of surfactant-stabilized silica CMP slurries at high pH and high ionic strengths are investigated with particular emphasis on the particle-particle and particle-substrate interactions. It is shown that for the design of consistently high performing slurries, stability of abrasive particles must be achieved under the dynamic processing conditions of CMP while maintaining sufficient pad-particle-wafer interactions.


Effect of earthworm active protein on fibroblast proliferation and its mechanism.
Earthworms have been used as a traditional medicine in China from thousands of years. In recent years, research has demonstrated that earthworm extracts might promote wound healing; however, its mechanism is still unknown. The study investigates the mechanism and effects of earthworm active protein (EAP), on mouse embryonic fibroblast (NIH/3T3) proliferation. The effects of earthworm active protein (EAP) in different concentrations (0, 25, 50, 100, 150, and 200 μg/mL) on NIH3T3 cell were detected by the MTT and Brdu incorporation assay (50, 100, and 150 μg/mL). The effects of EAP (37.5, 75, and 150 μg/mL) on the cell cycle were detected by flow cytometry. The cell signaling pathways of EAP-promoting NIH3T3 cell proliferation were studied by the MTT and Western blot by using different signaling pathway inhibitors. The results showed that EAP (50, 100, and 150 μg/mL) could promote NIH3T3 fibroblasts proliferation (36.4 ± 4.4%, 59.1 ± 4.9%, and 71.5 ± 5.7%). The mechanism of EAP promoting NIH3T3 cell proliferation should be as follows: EAP elevated cyclin D1 expression by activating MEK/ERK signaling pathway, and then promoted cell cycle from G1 to S phase, finally caused the proliferation of NIH3T3 cell. PI3K signaling pathway may be the upstream of MEK/ERK signaling pathway. The study demonstrates that EAP is effective in promoting effects on proliferation and migration activity of NIH3T3 cell, and the proliferation activity of EAP on NIH3T3 cell may be achieved through the PI3K→Rac→PAK→MEK signaling pathway.


An anterograde rabies virus vector for high-resolution large-scale reconstruction of 3D neuron morphology.
Glycoprotein-deleted rabies virus (RABV ∆G) is a powerful tool for the analysis of neural circuits. Here, we demonstrate the utility of an anterograde RABV ∆G variant for novel neuroanatomical approaches involving either bulk or sparse neuronal populations. This technology exploits the unique features of RABV ∆G vectors, namely autonomous, rapid high-level expression of transgenes, and limited cytotoxicity. Our vector permits the unambiguous long-range and fine-scale tracing of the entire axonal arbor of individual neurons throughout the brain. Notably, this level of labeling can be achieved following infection with a single viral particle. The vector is effective over a range of ages (>14 months) aiding the studies of neurodegenerative disorders or aging, and infects numerous cell types in all brain regions tested. Lastly, it can also be readily combined with retrograde RABV ∆G variants. Together with other modern technologies, this tool provides new possibilities for the investigation of the anatomy and physiology of neural circuits.


A simple remote-controlled power switch for internalized bioelectronic instrumentation.
This communication presents a remote-controlled power switch for extending the battery life of biomedical instruments implanted into animals or humans. The switching action is controlled externally to the implant by an inductive link between two coils, one contained in the implant and one external to the implant. The external coil sends an electromagnetic pulse to the implant, triggering a CMOS "D" flip-flop connected as a toggle switch--its state is toggled on or off upon receiving the external pulse. The standby current drain of the switch is about 4 nA. The remote triggering range is approximately 20-50 cm. Testing of the switch, surgically implanted as part of a telemetry transmitter, is also discussed.


Neural control of the heart: significance of double innervation re-examined.
Our recent studies on the activity of cardiac sympathetic and vagal nerves in anesthetized dogs have revealed that control of these two autonomic nerves having 'antagonistic' action on the heart is not always reciprocal; both reciprocal and non-reciprocal controls exist in reflex as well as in adaptive responses. We have evidence which also suggests the functional significance of non-reciprocal control. The co-activation of both autonomic efferents to the heart is particularly useful in increasing cardiac output as, for example, in the chemoreceptor reflex. On the other hand, under 'normal' conditions the respiration related rhythmic activity of both sympathetic and vagal nerves is almost completely reciprocal. The loss of the reciprocity occurs under subnormal conditions in which sympathetic discharges shift so that both nerves fire simultaneously. This tends to reduce respiration-induced fluctuations in heart rate. During cardiac rhythms seen in the efferent nerve activity, the peak of vagal firing does not strictly coincide with the inhibitory period of the sympathetic activity; vagal impulses reach the heart slightly earlier. However, when the heart rate is irregular and slow, the vagal activity shifts in time so that it coincides more definitely with the period of sympathetic nerve inhibition. This tends to further augment rhythmic fluctuations in heart rate. These studies show that the centers involved employ both reciprocal and non-reciprocal control of cardial nerve activity in reactions regulating heart function. The relationship between discharge patterns of both autonomic nerves is involved in production of fluctuation of heart rate in normal as well as in subnormal conditions.


Dopamine D2 receptors regulate unconditioned fear in deep layers of the superior colliculus and dorsal periaqueductal gray.
Electrical and chemical stimulation of the dorsal periaqueductal gray (dPAG), deep layers of the superior colliculus (dlSC), and inferior colliculus (IC) causes freezing and escape behavior in rodents. Systemic injections of the selective dopamine D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride increased the number of switch-off responses (SORs) to light and auditory evoked potentials in response to loud sounds. Dopamine D2 receptor inhibition in the IC was shown to enhance unconditioned fear. Nevertheless, the role of dopamine receptors in the dlSC and dPAG in the mediation of unconditioned fear has not yet been demonstrated. The purpose of the present study was to characterize the effects of sulpiride injections (4 and 8 μg/0.2 μl) in the dlSC and dPAG in rats that were subjected to unconditioned fear paradigms. Switch-off responses to light and exploratory behavior in the elevated plus maze were used to evaluate unconditioned fear in rats. Intra-dlSC microinjections of sulpiride increased the number of SORs to light. Intra-dlSC and intra-dPAG injections of sulpiride reduced the number of entries into and time spent on the open arms and decreased end-arm exploration and head dipping in the elevated plus maze. These findings suggest that dopamine, through D2 receptors in the dlSC and dPAG, is involved in defense reactions that are organized in the midbrain tectum.


Minimally invasive gastrointestinal surgery: From past to the future.
The improvement of the science and art of surgery began over 150 years ago. Surgical core tasks, "cutting and sewing" with hand and direct contact with the organs, have remained the same. However, in the 21st century, there has been a shifting paradigm in the methodology of surgery. The joint union between innovators, engineers, industry, and patient demands resulted in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). This method has influenced the techniques in every aspect of abdominal surgery, such as surgeons are not required to direct contact or see the structures on which they operate. Advances in the endoscope, imaging, and improved instrumentations convert the essential open surgery into the endoscopic method. Furthermore, computers and robotics show a promising future to facilitate complex procedures, enhance accuracy in microscale operations, and develop a simulation to improve the ability to face sophisticated approaches. MIS has been replacing open surgery due to improved survival, fewer complications, and rapid recoveries in recent years. Minimally invasive surgery's further research in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities is under investigation to achieve genuinely "noninvasive" surgery. Thus, MIS has gained interest in recent days and has been improving with promising outcomes.


Fabry Disease: Current and Novel Therapeutic Strategies. A Narrative Review.
Fabry disease (FD) is an inherited lysosomal storage disorder, leading to multisystemic manifestations and causing significant morbidity and mortality. The aim of this narrative review is to present the current and novel therapeutic strategies in FD, including symptomatic and specific treatment options. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies, including completed and ongoing randomized-controlled clinical trials (RCTs), prospective or retrospective cohort studies, case series and case reports that provided clinical data regarding FD treatment. A multidisciplinary symptomatic treatment is recommended for FD patients, personalized according to disease manifestations and their severity. During the last two decades, FD-specific treatments, including two enzyme-replacement-therapies (agalsidase alfa and agalsidase beta) and chaperone treatment with migalastat have been approved for use and allowed for symptoms' stabilization or even disease burden reduction. More therapeutic agents are currently under investigation. Substrate reduction therapies, including lucerastat and venglustat, have shown promising results in RCTs and may be used either as monotherapy or as complementary therapy to established enzymereplacement- therapies. More stable enzyme-replacement-therapy molecules that are associated with less adverse events and lower likelihood of neutralizing antibodies formation have also been developed. Ex-vivo and in-vivo gene therapy is being tested in animal models and pilot human clinical trials, with preliminary results showing a favorable safety and efficacy profile. The therapeutic landscape in FD appears to be actively expanding with more treatment options expected to become available in the near future, allowing for a more personalized approach in FD patients.


Agarose droplet microfluidics for highly parallel and efficient single molecule emulsion PCR.
Agarose emulsion droplet microfluidic technology for single copy emulsion PCR (ePCR) is a suitable technique for the detection of single copy DNA molecules. It improves the traditional ePCR by employing agarose with low melting and low gelling temperatures, which is coupled with PCR forward primers using Schiff-base reaction. Highly uniform monodisperse nanoliter agarose droplets each containing PCR reagents and single copy template are produced with a microfabricated emulsion generator. Following PCR, the cooled droplets transform to microbeads carrying amplicons to maintain the monocolonity of each droplet, which can be further analyzed. This method allows high-throughput generation of uniform droplets and enables high PCR efficiency, making it a promising platform for many single copy genetic studies.


Comparison of three dimensional conformal radiation therapy, intensity modulated radiation therapy and volumetric modulated arc therapy for low radiation exposure of normal tissue in patients with prostate cancer.
Radiotherapy has an important role in the treatment of prostate cancer. Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT), intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) techniques are all applied for this purpose. However, the risk of secondary radiation-induced bladder cancer is significantly elevated in irradiated patients compared surgery-only or watchful waiting groups. There are also reports of risk of secondary cancer with low doses to normal tissues. This study was designed to compare received volumes of low doses among 3D-CRT, IMRT and VMAT techniques for prostate patients. Ten prostate cancer patients were selected retrospectively for this planning study. Treatment plans were generated using 3D-CRT, IMRT and VMAT techniques. Conformity index (CI), homogenity index (HI), receiving 5 Gy of the volume (V5%), receiving 2 Gy of the volume (V2%), receiving 1 Gy of the volume (V1%) and monitor units (MUs) were compared. This study confirms that VMAT has slightly better CI while thev olume of low doses was higher. VMAT had lower MUs than IMRT. 3D-CRT had the lowest MU, CI and HI. If target coverage and normal tissue sparing are comparable between different treatment techniques, the risk of second malignancy should be a important factor in the selection of treatment.


Effect of lower extremity amputation on cardiovascular hemodynamic environment: An in vitro study.
Lower extremity amputation (LEA) was associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, but its hemodynamic mechanisms have not been fully studied. Therefore, to clarify the interrelationship between them, and figure out the potential pathogenesis, the exploration of the hemodynamic environment change of patients after LEA was premeditatedly executed. A near-physiological mock circulatory system (MCS) was employed in the present work to replicate the cardiovascular circulation after LEA in a short time and the unsteady-state numerical simulation was utilized as an auxiliary method to observe the changes of the hemodynamic environment inside the blood vessel. Higher severity of LEA leads to higher peripheral vascular impedance, higher blood pressure, and more obvious redistribution of blood perfusion volume. In addition, higher severity of LEA leads to lower wall shear stress (WSS), higher oscillatory shear index (OSI), and higher relative residence time (RRT) appeared in the infrarenal abdominal aorta and the iliac artery, while these changes are closely related to the higher probability of cardiovascular diseases. Results showed that different degrees of LEA (varying heights, unilateral/bilateral) have diverse effects on the patient's hemodynamic environment. This study explained the potential pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases after LEA from a hemodynamic perspective and provided a certain reference value for the improvement of the cardiovascular hemodynamic environment and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in lower extremity amputees.


The sustainable mitigation of in vitro ruminal biogas emissions by ensiling date palm leaves and rice straw with lactic acid bacteria and Pleurotus ostreatus for cleaner livestock production.
The sustainable utilization of date palm leaves (DPL) and rice straw (RS) as feed materials for ruminant was evaluated using an in vitro wireless gas production (GP) technique. DPL and RS were individually ensiled with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) for 45 days or used as substrates for the cultivation of Pleurotus ostreatus (PO) mushroom for 35 days. A total mixed ration was formulated as a control ration. In the other rations, berseem hay replaced DPL (ensiled without additives or ensiled with LAB or PO) at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. Ensiling with LAB did not affect the chemical composition of DPL or RS, while PO treatment reduced their fibre fraction contents. Ensiling without additives lowered (p < 0.05) the asymptotic production of total gas, methane (CH4 ) and carbon dioxide (CO2 ), and the rate of CH4 and CO2 while increasing (p < 0.05) the lag time of CH4 and CO2 production. Ensiling of materials with LAB and treatment with PO decreased (p < 0.05) the asymptotic production of total gas, CH4 and CO2 production and decreased the rate of CH4 and CO2 production. Ensiling without additives decreased (p < 0.05) total bacterial count, and increased (p < 0.05) fermentation pH and total volatile fatty acids (VFA), while LAB-ensiled DPL increased (p < 0.05) total VFA and propionate concentrations and decreased total protozoal count. The PO-treated DPL decreased (p < 0.05) bacterial count, protozoal count and fermentation pH and increased total VFA production. Replacing berseem hay with LAB or PO-treated DPL at 25% increased GP; however, increased CH4 and CO2 production, whereas the other replacement levels decreased total gas, CH4 and CO2 production. The treatment with LAB is more recommended than the PO treatment.


Implementation of a comprehensive prehabilitation program for patients undergoing radical cystectomy.
Coordinated preoperative optimization programs for radical cystectomy (RC) are limited and non-comprehensive. We evaluated the feasibility and acceptability of a coordinated, multi-faceted prehabilitation program for RC patients at a high-volume bladder cancer referral center. We performed a narrative literature review for prehabilitation in bladder cancer management as of December 1, 2020, with specific emphasis on examining higher-level evidence sources. We selected domains with the highest level of evidence and recruited a multidisciplinary team of experts to design our program. We implemented a comprehensive prehabilitation program with a pre-defined order set as standard of care for all patients undergoing RC beginning February 1, 2021. Demographic and clinicopathologic data were collected prospectively. Rates of adherence to the prehabilitation program services were analyzed using Stata version 13. A total of 82 patients were enrolled between February - December 2021, of which 67 (81%) had undergone RC at data cutoff. Mean age was 68 years (SD 11) and 63 (76%) identified as male. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) was utilized in 48 (59%) patients. The mean Charlson Comorbidity Index was 3.8 (SD 2.3). 100% of patients were screened for malnutrition, with 82% consuming nutritional supplements. Fifty-two percent of patients attended physical therapy pre-op. The 30-day and 30- to 90-day rates of complications were 56% and 40%, respectively. Resource length of stay (RLOS) declined after implementation of prehabilitation. Implementation of a comprehensive prehabilitation program at a high-volume bladder cancer referral center is feasible and has a modest effect on resource consumption and complications in our early experience.


Dispersal of Beauveria bassiana by the activity of nettle insects.
Recent studies have shown that the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana occurs naturally on the phylloplanes of several plants, including nettles. Insects could, by their activity, be contributing to this inoculum by dispersing it from other sites. The potential of nettle aphids Microlophium carnosum and their predator Anthocoris nemorum to disperse conidia of B. bassiana from soil to nettles and from sporulating cadavers in the nettle canopy was investigated in laboratory experiments. In petri dish assays, aphids showed potential to distribute B. bassiana from soil to nettle leaves. Predators dispersed inoculum from both soil and cadavers to nettle leaves in petri dishes. In microcosms, aphids did not disperse B. bassiana from the soil or from cadavers confined in the canopy, but A. nemorum were able to transfer inoculum from soil into the nettle canopy and to distribute conidia from cryptic cadavers. In some instances, infections were initiated in aphids and predators as a consequence of dispersal.


Human oscillatory potentials: intensity-dependence of timing and amplitude.
Oscillatory potentials (OPs) have been described as reduced in amplitude or delayed in diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and vascular occlusions. Although OPs are thought to have useful diagnostic applications, some of their basic physiologic properties remain to be fully described. In the present study, we examined the relationship between the timing and amplitude of OPs and stimulus intensity. Five normal volunteers had one eye anesthetized and dilated. Dark-adapted full-field ERGs were recorded to white stimuli of 0.0125-40 cd s/m(2). The timing of the OPs was measured as the sum of the time to the peak (TTP) of four peaks beginning at 15 ms after the stimulus. The amplitude was taken as the sum of the amplitudes of those same peaks. As an alternative value, OP strength was represented by the area under the OP curve or power around 150 Hz (+/-30 Hz) in the frequency domain. The OP timing, as measured by TTP, was found to be inversely related to stimulus intensity. OP-amplitudes grew with intensity, but then declined for stimulus intensities above about 4 cd s/m(2). At bright light intensities, the TTP continued to shorten, yet amplitudes, power, and area all declined. Individual OPs behaved similarly and reflected the overall response pattern of the group as a whole. Brighter stimuli produced larger, faster OPs for stimulus strengths up to the intensity standard used to produce OPs (3.5 cd s/m(2)). We have extended the range of stimuli to some 10-fold higher than the ISCEV standard for producing OPs and found that the timing continued to accelerate but that OP-amplitudes, OP-area, and OP-power all decline at higher stimulus intensities. These alternative measures of OP energy are easily measured and may be useful for further studies.


Using the patient as messenger, novel approach delivers clinical and financial gains.
Capitalize on QI and cost-saving opportunities by using the patient as messenger. No one has more to gain from quality improvement and cost-saving opportunities than patients themselves. That's why San Jose, CA-based Resolution Health Inc., developed a program that makes sure patients know what screenings and procedures they are due for, according to evidence-based guidelines, and how they can potentially save money by discussing drug alternatives with their physicians. A new study suggests the approach is effective at getting patients to act on their own behalf--and that it can deliver an ROI as well.


Changes in gastric environment with test meals affect the performance of 14C-urea breath test.
(14)C-urea breath test (UBT) is considered to be an accurate diagnostic test for the detection of active Helicobacter pylori infection. Various test meals are used in (14)C-UBT to slow down gastric emptying, and to enhance the gastric distribution, in order to increase the time and area of contact between microorganisms and the tracer substrate. The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the effect of gastric environment on the performance of (14)C-UBT using an alkaline and an acidic liquid test meal having gastric emptying retardant effect. The comparison of (14)C-UBT was done with liquid test meals (200 mL water) comprising (i) plain drinking water (PDW); (ii) 1.3 g or 3.0 g citric acid (CA); and (iii) 3.0 g trisodium citrate (TSC). Eighteen patients (37 +/- 12 years, range 18-57 years) with complaints of dyspepsia participated in the study. The status of H. pylori was confirmed by histology and rapid urease test. A total of 93 kBq of (14)C-urea (0.5 mL) in a gelatin capsule was orally administered along with liquid test meals to the overnight fasting subjects. Breath samples were collected and radioactivity measured. Results were expressed as (14)CO(2)/mmol exhaled CO(2) as percentage of administered radioactive urea. Higher acidic gastric environment (pH approx. 2.0) with CA was found to increase the exhaled (14)CO(2) level in a dose-dependent manner as compared to PDW and TSC meal (P < 0.05) at all time points. With TSC test meal, the expired (14)CO(2) level decreased in the lower acidic gastric environment (pH approx. 5.3). The peaks of exhaled (14)CO(2) with TSC test meal were observed at the same time points as that with PDW and CA test meals. The (14)C-UBT with TSC was found to be positive in 77% of patients (10/13). Better interaction between the microbial urease and (14)C-urea, caused by a test meal that retards gastric emptying and that changes gastric pH, plays an important role in hydrolysis of the administered (14)C-urea by H. pylori urease.


[The tentacle apparatus of the red coral (Corallium rubrum L.) and its role in feeding behaviour].
The tentacles of the octocoral Corallium rubrum may become extremely elongated ("threadlike-tentacle") the apical part of the "norm-tentacle" becoming stretched more than three times as much as the base.The threadlike parts of the tentacles contract corcscrew-like when touched by food particles.The stimulated part of the tentacle is brought close to the mouth by coordinated movements of its basal portion. Very often both "threadlike-tentacle" and "norm-tentacle" shorten in order to carry the particle to the pharynx.When the "norm-tentacles" only are touched, they react with quick strokes towards the oral disc. This behaviour, when shown by all tentacles at the same time results in the formation of either a "tentacle-fist" or a basketlike structure. At slight irritations the "norm-tentacle" will respond with slow bending movements, which lead the particle towards the mouth. Independent of the type of tentacle reactions the prey is always checked before entering the pharynx, and very often refused.If the polyp decides to accept, food is transported quickly through the elongated pharynx and within a few minutes will have disappeared in the coelenteron.


Structural effect of imidazolium-type ionic liquid adsorption to montmorillonite.
The adsorption of 1-alkyl-3-methylimidazolium-type ionic liquids (ITILs) coupled with different counteranions (Tf2N-, PF6-, BF4-, and Cl-) with variational cation alkyl chain lengths (n = 2, 4, 6, and 8) to montmorillonite was investigated to explore the structural effect of ITILs on their adsorption. A series of montmorillonite with different cation exchange capacities (CECs) and possessing a set of homoionic K- and Cs-exchanged interlayer cations were also examined to assess the influence of montmorillonite structure and characteristics. The adsorption of ITILs to Na-saturated montmorillonite (Na-MAz) was counteranion-independent but increased with the increase in the alkyl chain length of the imidazolium cation. X-ray diffraction results indicated that ITIL cations with different alkyl chains lay flat between the montmorillonite interlayers with different contact angles. The uptake of ITILs by Na-MAz increased with the increase in the solution pH and decrease in ionic strength. Na-MAz exhibited greater adsorption than K- and Cs-saturated MAz due to the larger hydrated radii of Na+ than those of K+ and Cs+. The uptake of ITILs to Na-MZj (CEC = 64 mmol/100 g) was almost half compared with that of Na-MAz (CEC = 117 mmol/100 g). Consequently, this work demonstrated that the ITIL adsorption to montmorillonite was dependent on the structures of both adsorbate and adsorbent.