Online Therapy for Depressive Symptoms: An Evaluation of Counselor-Led and Peer-Supported Life Review Therapy.
Life review therapy is recognized as an evidence-based treatment for depression in later life. The current article evaluates an online life review therapy in middle-aged and older persons, comparing a counselor-led to a peer-supported mode of delivery. A pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) was carried out with 3 conditions and 4 measurement points: (a) online life review therapy with online counseling, (b) online life review therapy with online peer support, and (c) a waitlist control condition. A mixed methods study provided insight in the reach, adherence, effectiveness, user experiences, and acceptability. Fifty-eight people were included in the study. The intervention reached a vulnerable group of mainly middle-aged, college-educated women. The pilot RCT on effectiveness showed that participants in all conditions improved significantly in depressive symptoms, engaged living, mastery, and vitality, but not in ego integrity and despair, social support, loneliness, and well-being. The adherence, user experience, and acceptability were better in the counselor condition than in the peer condition. No differences were found between middle-aged and older adults. Despite the nonsignificant effects, possibly due to the small sample size, online life review therapy might be a good method for alleviating depressive symptoms in people in their second half of life. Further research is needed, addressing how online life review is best offered.


Physicochemical properties of Carum copticum essential oil loaded chitosan films containing organic nanoreinforcements.
The aim of this research was to prepare of bionanocomposite films based on chitosan (CH) incorporated with Carum copticum essential oil and reinforced with cellulose nanofibers (CNF) or lignocellulose nanofibers (LCNF). The FTIR analysis showed new interactions in bionanocomposites. AFM and SEM analyses showed an increased roughness for bionanocomposites but suggested good dispersion of CNF and LCNF in CH matrix. X-ray diffraction confirmed that the degree of crystallinity was increased by addition of CNF/LCNF. The results suggested that the CH-EO film had high antioxidant activity and was more effective against E. coli and B. cereus bacteria than CH-EOCNF and CH-EO-LCNF films, which shows the release controlling effect of nanofibers. Mechanical properties were improved with addition of EO and CNF/LCNF. Incorporation of EO and CNF/LCNF improved water vapor barrier properties of films. In general, uniform dispersion and improving effect of LCNF on properties of CH-EO films was more than CNF.


Uncovering the out-of-plane nanomorphology of organic photovoltaic bulk heterojunction by GTSAXS.
The bulk morphology of the active layer of organic solar cells (OSCs) is known to be crucial to the device performance. The thin film device structure breaks the symmetry into the in-plane direction and out-of-plane direction with respect to the substrate, leading to an intrinsic anisotropy in the bulk morphology. However, the characterization of out-of-plane nanomorphology within the active layer remains a grand challenge. Here, we utilized an X-ray scattering technique, Grazing-incident Transmission Small-angle X-ray Scattering (GTSAXS), to uncover this new morphology dimension. This technique was implemented on the model systems based on fullerene derivative (P3HT:PC71BM) and non-fullerene systems (PBDBT:ITIC, PM6:Y6), which demonstrated the successful extraction of the quantitative out-of-plane acceptor domain size of OSC systems. The detected in-plane and out-of-plane domain sizes show strong correlations with the device performance, particularly in terms of exciton dissociation and charge transfer. With the help of GTSAXS, one could obtain a more fundamental perception about the three-dimensional nanomorphology and new angles for morphology control strategies towards highly efficient photovoltaic devices.


Individualized treatment with combination of Peg-interferon alpha 2b and ribavirin in patients infected with HCV genotype 3.
The benefit of individualizing treatment for patients with genotype 3 HCV infection on the basis of viral clearance at week 4 (wk4-R) has not been firmly established. Four hundred and fourteen patients received Peg-interferon alpha-2b plus 1000-1200 mg of ribavirin daily according with body weight > or <75 kg. Patients were randomized to standard 24 weeks (Std24) or to a 12 or 36 weeks variable treatment duration (Var12/36). In the variable treatment arm, patients with or without wk4-R were allocated to either 12 or 36 weeks duration. At treatment week 4, HCV RNA was undetectable in 262 patients (63.3%), 136 in the Std24, and 126 in the Var12/36 group (p=0.41). In patients with wk4-R, end-of-treatment (EOT) responses were 80.4% (CI 85.4-95.3) and 97.6% (CI 94.9-99.9) in the two arms, respectively (p=0.019). In patients without wk4-R, corresponding rates were 61.9% (50.6-73.2) and 75.3% (CI 65.9-84.6) (p=0.08). SVR was attained in 302 patients, 71.4% (CI 65.3-77.6) in the St24 group and 74.3% (CI 58.4-80.3) in the variable 12/36 arm. Among patients with wk4-R, SVR was 81.6% (CI 75.1-88.1) and 82.5% (75.9-89.1), respectively. In patients without wk4-R, SVR amounted to 52.1% (CI 40.4-63.7) and 61.7 (CI 51.1-72.3) in the two arms (p=0.25). HCV genotype 3 patients with week4-R may be treated safely with 12 weeks of therapy, provided that sufficiently high doses of ribavirin are administered. For patients still viremic at treatment week 4, SVR rates were numerically higher after 36 weeks of treatment than after the currently recommended 24 weeks.


Copper(I)-catalyzed asymmetric 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of 1,3-enynes and azomethine ylides.
Herein, we report a copper(I)-catalyzed asymmetric 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides and 1,3-enynes, which provides a series of chiral poly-substituted pyrrolidines in high regio-, diastereo-, and enantioselectivities. Both 4-aryl-1,3-enynes and 4-silyl-1,3-enynes serve as suitable dipolarophiles while 4-alkyl-1,3-enynes are inert. Moreover, the method is successfully applied in the construction of both tetrasubstituted stereogenic carbon centers and chiral spiro pyrrolidines. The DFT calculations are also conducted, which imply a concerted mechanism rather than a stepwise mechanism. Finally, various transformations started from the pyrrolidine bearing a triethylsilylethynyl group and centered on the alkyne group are achieved, which compensates for the inertness of 4-alkyl-1,3-enynes in the present reaction.


Electronic and Hydrogen Storage Properties of Li-Terminated Linear Boron Chains Studied by TAO-DFT.
It has been extremely difficult for conventional computational approaches to reliably predict the properties of multi-reference systems (i.e., systems possessing radical character) at the nanoscale. To resolve this, we employ thermally-assisted-occupation density functional theory (TAO-DFT) to predict the electronic and hydrogen storage properties of Li-terminated linear boron chains (Li2Bn), with n boron atoms (n = 6, 8, …, and 16). From our TAO-DFT results, Li2Bn, which possess radical character, can bind up to 4 H2 molecules per Li, with the binding energies in the desirable regime (between 20 and 40 kJ/mol per H2). The hydrogen gravimetric storage capacities of Li2Bn range from 7.9 to 17.0 wt%, achieving the ultimate goal of the United States Department of Energy. Accordingly, Li2Bn could be promising media for storing and releasing H2 at temperatures much higher than the boiling point of liquid nitrogen.


Area 18 of the cat: the first step in processing visual movement information.
In cats, responses of area 18 neurons to different moving patterns were measured. The influence of three movement parameters--direction, angular velocity, and amplitude of movement--were tested. The results indicate that in area 18 no ideal movement detector exists, but that simple and complex cells each perform complementary operations of primary visual areas, i.e. analysis and detection of movement.


[B-type natriuretic peptide levels and renal function in the diagnosis of heart failure in the elderly].
BNP levels are accurate in the diagnosis of heart failure and useful in clinical practice. Relationship between BNP, heart failure (HF) and renal function are little known in the elderly. Renal function influence the optimal cut point of BNP in patients with a Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) lesser than 60 ml/min/1.73 m(2). A total of 71 patients (mean age = 85 years) were admitted in a Cardiogeriatric Unit. We noted several parameters, age, gender, the presence or the absence of Systolic Heart Failure (clinical history and physical examination), the echographic measure of the left ventricular ejection fraction, the eGFR value calculated by simplified MDRD formula and the BNP value. We divided these patients into six groups according the presence of HF and eGFR value higher than 60ml/min/1.73m(2),or between 30 and 60 or between 15 and 30. Our results show that the BNP value is higher in all the three groups of patients with Heart Failure with or without diminution of the eGFR: for example, 1220 pg/ml in the presence of HF versus 788 pg/ml in the absence of HF in the two groups with the eGFR is calculated between 15 and 30 ml/min/1.73m(2). BNP is a helpful tool in clinical practice for the diagnosis of Systolic Heart Failure in the presence of renal impairment in the elderly with a higher biomarker cut point.


Differences in the DNA sequence of the translational attenuator of several constitutively expressed erm(A) genes from clinical isolates of Streptococcus agalactiae.
To study the regulatory region of a constitutively expressed erm(A) gene in Streptococcus agalactiae clinical isolates. Thirty clinical isolates of S. agalactiae which were cross-resistant to erythromycin and clindamycin and with a clindamycin MIC higher than that of erythromycin were studied by PCR, sequencing and molecular typing. PCR analysis revealed that all the strains harboured the erm(A) gene, either alone (26 isolates) or in combination with erm(B) (four isolates). Sequencing of the region upstream of erm(A) showed that all isolates possessed two types of genetic alteration. Most of the strains showed point mutations in the second leader peptide (mainly A137C) and, in four isolates (two clones), an insertion fragment with high homology to IS1381 and transposase genes was detected. Epidemiological analysis of strains indicated several clonal origins of isolates. The mutations described here are thought to result in increased or constitutive expression of the erm(A) gene.


Experimental evaluation of rigor mortis. III. Comparative study of the evolution of rigor mortis in different sized muscle groups in rats.
The use of new methods and an appropriate apparatus has allowed us to make successive measurements of rigor mortis and a study of its evolution in the rat. By a comparative examination on the front and hind limbs, we have determined the following: (1) The muscular mass of the hind limbs is 2.89 times greater than that of the front limbs. (2) In the initial phase rigor mortis is more pronounced in the front limbs. (3) The front and hind limbs reach maximum rigor mortis at the same time and this state is maintained for 2 hours. (4) Resolution of rigor mortis is accelerated in the front limbs during the initial phase, but both front and hind limbs reach complete resolution at the same time.


The Influence of Irrelevant Visual Distractors on Eye Movement Control in Chinese Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Evidence from the Remote Distractor Paradigm.
The current study examined eye movement control in autistic (ASD) children. Simple targets were presented in isolation, or with central, parafoveal, or peripheral distractors synchronously. Sixteen children with ASD (47-81 months) and nineteen age and IQ matched typically developing children were instructed to look to the target as accurately and quickly as possible. Both groups showed high proportions (40%) of saccadic errors towards parafoveal and peripheral distractors. For correctly executed eye movements to the targets, centrally presented distractors produced the longest latencies (time taken to initiate eye movements), followed by parafoveal and peripheral distractor conditions. Central distractors had a greater effect in the ASD group, indicating evidence for potential atypical voluntary attentional control in ASD children.


Role of E-cadherin in peritoneal dissemination of the pancreatic cancer cell line, panc-1, through regulation of cell to cell contact.
The present study was designed to clarify the molecules responsible for peritoneal dissemination of cancer cells. We established sublines with high (HP cells) and low (LP cells) passing activity through the membrane of a transwell chamber. The cell lines were established from the human pancreatic cancer cell line, Panc-1. LP cells demonstrated an octagonal shape and tight adhesion, whereas HP cells exhibited a spindle shape and grew with less cell-cell contact in vitro. It was found that HP cells demonstrated a high degree of peritoneal dissemination in nude mice following peritoneal injection of these cells compared to LP cells. We subsequently investigated the expression of certain adhesion molecules. Consequently, we found that LP cells exhibited a stronger expression of E-cadherin than HP cells. On the other hand, there was no difference in the expression of CD44H and beta1 integrin between these two sublines. Passing activity of LP cells through the membrane of the invasion chamber increased to nearly equal levels with HP cells following treatment with anti-human E-cadherin antibody. Moreover, transfection of mouse E-cadherin cDNA into HP cells reduced both passing activity through the membrane of the invasion chamber and peritoneal dissemination in nude mice to levels similar to that of LP cells. In conclusion, these results indicated that loss of E-cadherin facilitates both passing activity in an invasion chamber and peritoneal dissemination, playing a causative role in peritoneal dissemination of cancer cells.


Synergism of cytoplasmic kinases in IL6-induced ligand-independent activation of androgen receptor in prostate cancer cells.
IL6 is a pleiotropic cytokine which has been implicated in ligand-independent activation of androgen receptor in prostate cancer cells. Here, we present the evidence that two cytoplasmic kinases Pim1 and Etk are involved in this process. We showed that Pim1 is expressed in all prostate cancer cell lines examined. Both the expression level and the kinase activity of Pim1 are regulated by IL6 in these cells. Furthermore, we showed that IL6 downstream tyrosine kinase Etk can induce tyrosine phosphorylation of Pim1 which is correlated with its kinase activity. Mutation of the conserved Tyrosine 218 in the activation loop results in reduced kinase activity of Pim1. Interestingly, Etk can also be activated by Pim1 when they are coexpressed in prostate cancer cells, suggesting a possible positive feedback loop between Etk and Pim1. It appears that both Pim1 and Etk are required for IL6-induced activation of androgen receptor-mediated transcription in prostate cancer cells because overexpression of the kinase-deficient form of either Pim1 or Etk dramatically blocks the IL6 effect. Coexpression of the two kinases together but neither one alone is sufficient to activate ARE-containing promoter. Taken together, our data suggest a synergism of Ser/Thr kinase Pim1 and tyrosine kinase Etk in IL6 signaling and provide new insights into ligand-independent activation of androgen receptor in prostate cancer cells.


Additivity versus repair inhibition in fractionated treatments combining drugs and X rays: a theoretical analysis.
Drugs which inhibit the repair of radiation damage could potentially be useful for enhancing the effects of radiotherapy. In pre-clinical combined modality studies, however, it is often difficult to state with certainty whether or not a drug has inhibited radiation damage repair. This paper shows that several commonly used parameters for assessing repair can give the wrong answer regarding the presence of drug-induced repair inhibition. These parameters are; the difference in radiation dose between 1 and n fractions to give the same effect, the fractional recovered dose per fraction interval, FR, and the related parameter FREC. A further parameter used for treatment comparisons is the enhancement ratio for the drug (D.E.R.; ratio of radiation doses, with and without drug, to cause a given effect). An increasing D.E.R. with increasing number of radiation fractions has been taken as an indication that the drug inhibited repair. The present report demonstrates that this, too, can be misleading. From an analysis based on a linear-quadratic survival curve for X rays, it is suggested that deriving and comparing alpha/beta ratios (ratio of the linea to quadratic coefficients) gives the best indication of drug-induced changes in survival curve shape which may reflect underlying changes in repair capacity.


Scientific abstracts at the Society for Adolescent Medicine meetings: a 3-decade comparison.
The purpose of this study was to review abstracts accepted for presentation at the annual national meeting of the Society for Adolescent Medicine (SAM) over the past 3 decades for subject content and research design. Retrospective review was conducted of research abstracts for 3 years, selected at random, for the 1990s and then matched at 10-year intervals for the previous 2 decades. The major categories for subject content were: medical, psychosocial, health services, and miscellaneous; for research design categories were: retrospective, observational, experimental, and miscellaneous. Subsequent publication was also assessed. The most notable change over the 3 decades in subject content was a shift from medical topics (58% to 19%) to psychosocial topics [20% to 52% (p < .001)] of abstracts, the latter largely accounted for by increases in topics pertaining to high-risk behaviors. There was a substantial decrease in abstracts concerning medical aspects of chronic illness (p < .001), well-adolescent care, growth and development, and psychosocial aspects of chronic illness (p < .02). Regarding research design, the proportion of retrospective studies decreased over the 3 decades (p < .02); the most prevalent design was observational, with an increase in studies using established databases (p < .02). Less than 15% represented an experimental design. Studies using qualitative analysis appeared for the first time in the 1990s. The percentage of presentations which eventuated in published reports increased from 35% to 63% over the 3 decades (p < .02). A significant shift occurred in subject content of scientific abstracts from a medical to a psychosocial emphasis. The proportion of retrospective designs decreased, and qualitative analyses emerged. The likelihood of later publication of the studies increased.


The relationship between fear extinction and resilience to drug-dependence in rats.
Some individuals recover quickly from stressful events, while others do not; this suggests that there are individual differences in stress resilience. Previous studies in rats have shown that an animal's ability to extinguish conditioned fear can predict their stress resilience. In the present study, we investigated whether rats who are resilient or vulnerable to fear conditioning would consistently show resilient or vulnerable behaviors in other behavioral tests. Male Wistar-Imamichi rats were subjected to a series of behavioral tests, including open field, conditioned place-preference (CPP), forced swim and auditory fear conditioning. The subjects were assigned to one of two different groups: resilient or vulnerable, based on their level of freezing during fear extinction, and their other behavioral phenotypes were then compared. Rats in the resilient group showed faster extinction in the methamphetamine-induced CPP test than rats in the vulnerable group. The results suggest that resilience to stressful events is associated with drug-dependence and that individuals' abilities to recover from stressful situations and drug-dependence may share a common mechanism.


Recent developments in antibody derivatives against colorectal cancer; A review.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most common cause of cancer and mortality worldwide and is the third most common cancer in men and women. Surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy are conventionally used for the treatment of colorectal cancer. However, these methods are associated with various side effects on normal cells. Thus, new studies are moving towards more effective and non-invasive methods for treatment of colorectal cancer. Targeted therapy of CRC is a promising new approach to enhance the efficiency and decrease the toxicity of the treatment. In targeted therapy of CRC, antibody fragments can directly inhibit tumor cell growth and proliferation. They also can act as an ideal carrier for targeted delivery of anticancer drugs. In the present study, the structure and function of different formats of antibody fragments, immune-targeted therapy of CRC using antibody fragments will be discussed.


[Minimally invasive approach for heart valve replacement: report of 73 cases].
To report a new minimally invasive approach for heart valve operation. Through right minimal vertical infra-axillary thoracotomy incision (by intercostal space), 68 patients with rheumatic heart disease, 2 patients with subacute endocarditis, and 3 patients with congenital heart disease underwent heart valve replacement from March 1997 to Spring 1998. 30 double valve replacements, 33 mitral valve replacements, 10 aortic valve replacements and 14 DeVega tricuspid annuloplasty were performed. The length of the incision averaged (8.5 +/- 0.9) cm, arrest times averaged (88.6 +/- 33.8) min, cardiopulmonary bypass times averaged (117.0 +/- 45.9) min. Five mitral valve replacements were performed with ventricular fibrillation. Ventilator periods averaged (9.6 +/- 3.6) h, chest tube drainage averaged (264.5 +/- 184.3) ml. One patient died of cerebral bleeding in hospital. Two patients suffered SBE and one of them died. The results of follow up for other patients were fine. This minimally incisive valve operation is a new safe, small wounded and cosmetic approach for heart valve replacement.


Malignant myoepithelial cells are associated with the differentiated papillary structure and metastatic ability of a syngeneic murine mammary adenocarcinoma model.
The normal duct and lobular system of the mammary gland is lined with luminal and myoepithelial cell types. Although evidence suggests that myoepithelial cells might suppress tumor growth, invasion and angiogenesis, their role remains a major enigma in breast cancer biology and few models are currently available for exploring their influence. Several years ago a spontaneous transplantable mammary adenocarcinoma (M38) arose in our BALB/c colony; it contains a malignant myoepithelial cell component and is able to metastasize to draining lymph nodes and lung. To characterize this tumor further, primary M38 cultures were established. The low-passage LM38-LP subline contained two main cell components up to the 30th subculture, whereas the higher passage LM38-HP subline was mainly composed of small spindle-shaped cells. In addition, a large spindle cell clone (LM38-D2) was established by dilutional cloning of the low-passage MM38-LP cells. These cell lines were studied by immunocytochemistry, electron microscopy and ploidy, and syngeneic mice were inoculated subcutaneously and intravenously with the different cell lines, either singly or combined to establish their tumorigenic and metastatic capacity. The two subpopulations of LM38-LP cultures were characterized as luminal and myoepithelium-like cells, whereas LM38-HP was mainly composed of small, spindle-shaped epithelial cells and LM38-D2 contained only large myoepithelial cells. All of them were tumorigenic when inoculated into syngeneic mice, but only LM38-LP cultures containing both conserved luminal and myoepithelial malignant cells developed aggressive papillary adenocarcinomas that spread to lung and regional lymph nodes. The differentiated histopathology and metastatic ability of the spontaneous transplantable M38 murine mammary tumor is associated with the presence and/or interaction of both luminal and myoepithelial tumor cell types.


Structure and anti-tumor activity of a polysaccharide from Bletilla ochracea Schltr.
The polysaccharide fraction of Bletilla ochracea (BOP) was isolated from its tubers, and purified by DEAE-52 Cellulose and Sephadex G-200 column chromatography. The structural features of BOP were analyzed by GC-MS, HPLP, FT-IR, methylation and NMR. The average molecular weight of BOP was approximately 4.9 × 105 Da, and the monosaccharide composition was 7.88:2.12 mix of mannose and glucose. The FT-IR and NMR analyses revealed the following linkage: [→(4-β-D-Man-1)4 → (4-β-D-Glc-1)2 → 4-2-O-acetyl-β-D-Man-1 → 4-β-D-Man-1 → 4-3-O-acetyl-β-D-Man-1 → 4-2-O-acetyl-β-D-Man-1→]. Although BOP had no effect on the proliferation rate of CT26 colon carcinoma cells, it significantly inhibited tumor xenograft growth in vivo by stimulating CD4+ T cell expansion in the spleen of the tumor-bearing mice. Taken together, BOP is a potent immunomodulatory agent that can be considered for anti-tumor therapy.


Defects in amino acid catabolism and the urea cycle.
Symptoms in patients with defects in amino acid catabolism and the urea cycle usually develop because of intoxication of accumulating metabolites. The cumulative prevalence of these disorders is considerable (at least>1:2000 newborns). Timely and correct intervention during the initial presentation and during later episodes is most important. Evaluation of metabolic parameters should be performed on an emergency basis in every patient with symptoms of unexplained metabolic crisis, intoxication, and/or unexplained encephalopathy. A substantial number of patients develop acute encephalopathy or chronic and fluctuating progressive neurological disease. The so-called cerebral organic acid disorders present with (progressive) neurological symptoms: ataxia, myoclonus, extrapyramidal symptoms, and "metabolic stroke." Important diagnostic clues, such as white matter abnormalities, cortical or cerebellar atrophy, and injury of the basal ganglia can be derived from cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Long-term neurological disease is common, particularly in untreated patients, and the manifestations are varied, the most frequent being (1) mental defect, (2) epilepsy, and (3) movement disorders. Successful treatment strategies are becoming increasingly available. They mostly require an experienced interdisciplinary team including a neuropediatrician and/or later on a neurologist.


Role of cytosolic phospholipase A2 in the enhancement of alpha2-adrenoceptor-mediated vasoconstriction by the thromboxane-mimetic U46619 in the porcine isolated ear artery: comparison with vasopressin-enhanced responses.
Pre-contraction with the thromboxane-mimetic U46619 enhances the subsequent alpha(2)-adrenoceptor-mediated vasoconstriction in the porcine ear artery through an enhanced activation of ERK-MAP kinase. In this study we determined the role of cPLA(2) in this enhanced response, and determined whether vasopressin is also able to enhance alpha(2)-adrenoceptor-mediated vasoconstriction through the same pathway. The cPLA(2) inhibitors AACOCF3 (50 microM) and MAFP (50 microM) both inhibited the U46619-enhanced alpha(2)-adrenoceptor response, but had no effect on the direct alpha(2)-adrenoceptor response. AACOCF3 also inhibited the enhanced ERK activation associated with the enhanced alpha(2)-adrenoceptor-mediated vasoconstriction. Pre-contraction with arachidonic acid mimicked the effect of U46619 by enhancing the contractile response to the alpha(2)-adrenoceptor agonist UK14304 (1 microM) and enhancing the alpha(2)-adrenoceptor-mediated ERK activation. Pre-contraction with vasopressin also enhanced the contractile response to UK14304, but neither PD98059 (50 microM) nor AACOCF3 (50 microM) had any effect this vasopressin-enhanced response, indicating that neither the ERK pathway, nor cPLA(2) are involved in vasopressin-enhanced responses. The alpha(2)-adrenceptor-stimulated activation of ERK was also unaffected by pre-contraction with vasopressin. On the other hand, inhibition of PKCzeta inhibited the enhanced alpha(2)-adrenoceptor contraction after pre-contraction with both U46619 and vasopressin. This study demonstrates that alpha(2)-adrenoceptor-mediated vasoconstriction can be enhanced through two different pathways-one dependent upon the enhanced activation of ERK-MAP kinase through activation of cPLA(2), and the other through a different, ERK/cPLA(2)-independent pathway.


Progress in the molecular understanding of hereditary peripheral neuropathies reveals new insights into the biology of the peripheral nervous system.
Since the first description of the autosomal dominant inherited peripheral neuropathy Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease over a century ago, there has been considerable disagreement, based on morphological abnormalities of both the axons of peripheral nerves and their surrounding Schwann cells, as to whether this disorder is due primarily to an autonomous Schwann cell defect or an autonomous neuronal defect. Recently, the Schwann cell protein peripheral myelin protein 22 (PMP-22) has been implicated in the molecular pathogenesis of hereditary peripheral neuropathies in mice and humans. Reinterpretations of morphological studies of the diseased nerves in light of these findings strongly suggest that Schwann cells have a much more pronounced influence on their ensheathed axons than previously anticipated.


Trachelobdella sinensis Blanchard, 1896 found from Cyprinus carpio nudus in Korea.
Trachelobdella sinensis was found in Cyprinus carpio nudus. The morphological chararacteristics were described. It is the first record of Trachelobdella sinensis in Korea(summarized from text).


Genome-wide analysis, expression dynamics and varietal comparison of NAC gene family at various developmental stages in Morus notabilis.
NAC genes are important transcription factors and forms a large family in plants. They have shown to play an important role in growth and development and have also been shown to involve in regulation of stress-responsive genes. In the present study, a repertoire of NAC genes in recently published mulberry genome has been identified which consists of a total of 79 members. Structural analysis revealed that most of the NAC genes in mulberry contain two introns. The proteins encoded by them show a wide range of isoelectric points suggestive of their varied roles in varying microcellular environment. Phylogenetic and conserved motif analysis elucidate the presence of 15 sub-groups of these genes along with two novel sub-groups having distinct conserved motifs which are not present in Arabidopsis. Gene ontology term enrichment analysis and cis-element identification from their putative 1 K upstream regulatory region indicates their possible role in important biological processes like organ formation, meristem establishment, senescence, and various biotic and abiotic stresses. Expression analysis across various developmental stages led to identification of their preferential expression in diverse tissues. Taken together, this work provides a solid background information related to structure, function, expression and evolution of NAC gene family in mulberry.


Genome-wide association studies for growth traits in buffaloes using the single step genomic BLUP.
Growth traits are important for the profitability of buffalo breeding systems, since in general, these animals are raised both for meat and milk. In this study, the single-step genomic BLUP method was employed to prospect the genomic regions' associated with weight at standard ages of 100, 210, 365, and 550 days in a buffalo population, aiming to identify genes with stronger expression for those characteristics. We found 6, 1, 2, and 5 SNPs significantly associated (p value < 10-5) with weight at 100, 210, 365, and 550 days of age, respectively, where those SNPs respectively explained 0.164, 0.040, 0.044, and 0.213% of the additive variance of each trait. SNP AX-85099682 (BBU24) was significant for weight at 100, 210, and 365 days, indicating the existence of a possible QTL affecting the initial growth rate of buffaloes. All told, eight genes (CBLB, TRNAG-UCC, GADD45B, LOC112583811, MGAT4C, KCNMA1, SLC5A2, and TGFB1I1) were identified as candidates for the growth traits of buffaloes. However, molecular and gene expression studies are necessary to validate these genes for subsequent use in programs for genetic improvement of the species.


Immunocytochemical detection of carcinoembryonic antigen in salivary gland tumors.
The immunoperoxidase method was applied for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) detection in biopsy specimens of salivary gland tumors. 9 out of 10 adenoidcystic carcinomas revealed a strong and abundant reaction in tumoral glands. 10 other specimens of pleomorphic adenomas showed weak staining in the areas of epithelial proliferation. Normal glands adjacent to the tumor mass revealed a weak but constant reaction on the luminal border. As in other types of gland tumor, the quantitative estimation of CEA production by salivary gland tumors may be useful in the monitoring of recurrencies.


PlGF knockdown induced apoptosis through Wnt signaling pathway in gastric cancer stem cells.
Despite the fact that much research has focused on gastric cancer, it is still a worldwide concern, because of the difficulties with factors such as signaling pathway crosstalk and gastric cancer stem cell (GCSC). Placental growth factor (PlGF) is one of these factors, and its tumorigenicity potential still remains a question. As a result, we have investigated the effect of PlGF knockdown on apoptosis and genes involved in the Wnt signaling pathway, and apoptosis in cancer stem cells derived from AGS an MKN-45 gastric cancer cell lines. We isolated GCSCs from MKN-45 and AGS cell lines on a nonadherent surface. Then the cell viability, the real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction data of the genes involved in the Wnt signaling pathway, and apoptosis were evaluated. Furthermore, DNA laddering was used to show the apoptotic effect and DNA fragmentation caused by the PlGF knockdown. Our investigation revealed that the PlGF knockdown with PlGF-specific small interfering RNA at 40 pmol for GCSCs derived from MKN-45 and AGS at 24 hours can significantly affect the cell viability, the Wnt signaling pathway, and the apoptosis-related genes expression. In conclusion, we showed the PlGF knockdown may induce apoptosis via the Wnt signaling pathway in GCSCs.


Roles of the N-terminal domain and remote substrate binding subsites in activity of the debranching barley limit dextrinase.
Barley limit dextrinase (HvLD) of glycoside hydrolase family 13 is the sole enzyme hydrolysing α-1,6-glucosidic linkages from starch in the germinating seed. Surprisingly, HvLD shows 150- and 7-fold higher activity towards pullulan and β-limit dextrin, respectively, than amylopectin. This is investigated by mutational analysis of residues in the N-terminal CBM-21-like domain (Ser14Arg, His108Arg, Ser14Arg/His108Arg) and at the outer subsites +2 (Phe553Gly) and +3 (Phe620Ala, Asp621Ala, Phe620Ala/Asp621Ala) of the active site. The Ser14 and His108 mutants mimic natural LD variants from sorghum and rice with elevated enzymatic activity. Although situated about 40 Å from the active site, the single mutants had 15-40% catalytic efficiency compared to wild type for the three polysaccharides and the double mutant retained 27% activity for β-limit dextrin and 64% for pullulan and amylopectin. These three mutants hydrolysed 4,6-O-benzylidene-4-nitrophenyl-63-α-d-maltotriosyl-maltotriose (BPNPG3G3) with 51-109% of wild-type activity. The results highlight that the N-terminal CBM21-like domain plays a role in activity. Phe553 and the highly conserved Trp512 sandwich a substrate main chain glucosyl residue at subsite +2 of the active site, while substrate contacts of Phe620 and Asp621 at subsite +3 are less prominent. Phe553Gly showed 47% and 25% activity on pullulan and BPNPG3G3, respectively having a main role at subsite +2. By contrast at subsite +3, Asp621Ala increased activity on pullulan by 2.4-fold, while Phe620Ala/Asp621Ala retained only 7% activity on pullulan albeit showed 25% activity towards BPNPG3G3. This outcome supports that the outer substrate binding area harbours preference determinants for the branched substrates amylopectin and β-limit dextrin.


[Treatment of stenoses of the penile urethra by urethroplasty with dorsal pedicled patch: roofing urethroplasty].
Treatment of long or multiple anterior urethral stricture(s) when Monseur technique is not applicable. Our technique entails augmentation of the dorsally slit open stenosed urethra using pedicled non-hair bearing penile skin. Between June 1991 and May 1996, 26 men (median age 34 years) with anterior urethral strictures underwent roofing urethroplasty. Nine patients had long stricture (average 3.2 cm) and 17 had multiple short segment strictures (average 7 cm). All patients were circumcised, and dorsal urethral augmentation was performed using transversely oriented non-hair bearing penile skin pedicled flap. Median follow-up was 38 months (range 3-50). A successful outcome with no recurrent stricture as evidenced by normal retrograde urethrography and voiding history was achieved in 23 of 26 men (88%). Two patients had fistula in early postoperative period; one of them needed surgical closure. Roofing urethroplasty is a practical alternative for repair of long anterior urethral stricture(s) when Monseur technique cannot be applied.


Random and nonrandom behavior of symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.
Little is known about the behavior of symptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF). The nature of the process formed by the successive occurrences of this arrhythmia was studied in 8 patients with a history of symptomatic paroxysmal AF. Trans-telephonic monitoring of the electrocardiogram was used to document the cardiac rhythm during symptoms. Patients were followed while successive attacks of paroxysmal AF were documented. A minimum of 12 and a maximum of 26 consecutive episodes of symptomatic paroxysmal AF were recorded from the 8 patients during 66 to 332 days. Methods developed in industrial reliability theory were used to show that, for the overall group of 8 patients, the interevent times between successive occurrences of symptomatic AF were not independent. However, for a subgroup including 6 of the patients, the interevent times were independent and governed by an exponential probability distribution. Differences in observed behavior of symptomatic AF may relate to differences in underlying mechanism within patients.


Elevated chromogranin A (CgA) serum levels in the patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
The neuroendocrine differentiation in PC could potentially represent a new finding with diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic implications. This study aimed at evaluating the clinical usefulness of CgA as a neuroendocrine (NE) serum-marker. We investigated the role of the serum concentration of CgA in a study group of patients with PC. CgA was significantly higher in the patients affected by PC as compared with the group of healthy subjects (HS) and those with chronic pancreatitis (CHP) (p<0.001). Also the HS group differed significantly from the CHP control group in the serum CgA levels (p<0.001). The serum carbohydrate antigen (CA19-9) level displayed a significant difference (p<0.001) between the PC and the HS group. The PC and CHP groups, as well as the HS and CHP groups showed also significant differences in the CA19-9 levels (p<0.001). One can conclude that the patients with higher CgA levels had poorer prognosis and survival, as compared to those with lower CgA levels. These results support the notion that the determination of serum CgA level before treatment may be a potential prognostic factor for PC.


Synthesis and structure-activity relationship study of a potent MHO7 analogue as potential anti-triple negative breast cancer agent.
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive, high recurrence and metastatic breast cancer subtype. There are few safe and effective therapeutic drugs for treatment of TNBC. The marine natural product MHO7 has been determined to be a potential antitumor agent. However, its moderate activity and complex structure hampered its clinical application. In this study, a series of novel derivatives with modification on C24 of MHO7 were first synthesized. Some of the analogues were significantly more potent than MHO7 against all selected breast cancer cell lines. Among them, compound 4m had the best activity, and its IC50 value against TNBC was up to 0.51 μM. A whole-genome transcriptomic analysis shown that the mechanism of compound 4m against TNBC cells was similar with that of parent compound MHO7. Subsequent cellular mechanism studies showed that compound 4m could induce apoptosis of MDA-MB-231 cells through mitochondria pathway and cause G1 phase arrest. Moreover, 4m could disrupt the expressions of MAPK/Akt pathway-associated proteins (p-p38 and p-Akt) and remarkably increase the ratio of Bax to Bcl-2 and activate cleaved caspase 3/9/PARP. Importantly, 4m could influence the expression of Smad 7, and p-Smad 3 to inhibit TNBC cells metastasis. Stability assays in rat plasma and liver microsomes indicated that 4m still have room for further optimization. And the results of the online molinspiration software predicted that 4m has desirable physicochemical properties but some properties still have violation from the Lipinski rule of five. Overall, the modification on C24 of MHO7 was a promising way for developing novel anti-TNBC agents with considerable potential for optimization.


The accuracy of left ventricular mass determined by real-time three-dimensional echocardiography in chronic animal and clinical studies: a comparison with postmortem examination and magnetic resonance imaging.
Real-time 3-dimensional echocardiography (RT3DE), 2-dimensional echocardiography (2DE), and M-mode echocardiography were performed in 28 sheep with cardiac pathologies and 27 patients with heart disease to demonstrate the superiority of RT3DE over M-mode and 2DE for the determination of left ventricular mass. Postmortem examination and magnetic resonance imaging were used as a reference standard for the animal and clinical studies, respectively. In the animal study, the highest concordance correlation (0.92) was obtained between the actual weight of left ventricular mass and that estimated by RT3DE (0.69 for 2DE and 0.77 for M-mode, P < .001). In the clinical study, RT3DE also provided the best concordance correlation with left ventricular mass determined by magnetic resonance imaging (0.91 for RT3DE, 0.83 for 2DE, and 0.38 for M-mode; P < .0001).


Multifunctional implantable particles for skin tissue regeneration: preparation, characterization, in vitro and in vivo studies.
The transplantation of cell-polymer constructs has been developed as a novel approach to curing tissue defects. However, a number of methodological problems remain to be solved, including the loss of a proper cellular milieu, the relatively long period of culture time and the complexity of the application. The aim of the present article is to evaluate the feasibility of porous gelatin-based implantable particles as a novel strategy for delivery of cultured cells and bioactive molecules to correct dermal defects. For this purpose, implantable porous gelatin particles (100-230 microm) encapsulating proliferative growth factors were prepared and characterized, and their influence on fibroblasts was assessed. In vivo examinations were undertaken to observe guided dermal tissue regeneration after the transplantation of the implantable particles. Our results indicate the feasibility of transplanting multifunctional implantable particles as a culture substrate, as a protein transplantation vehicle or as a biodegradable implant for skin regeneration, thus giving an indication of the possible applications in tissue engineering.


Does the Coping Assessment for Laboring Moms (CALM) Scale Enhance Perception of Nursing Presence?
Traditional 0-to-10 pain assessment may be inadequate during labor. The Coping Assessment for Laboring Moms (CALM) scale was developed to focus on facial, behavioral, psychosocial, vocalization, and verbal expressions to aid holistic nursing support during childbirth. Using a comparative design, the 0-to-10 pain and CALM scales were evaluated to determine differences in women's perceptions of nursing presence using the Positive Presence Index during labor at a community hospital in the Pacific Northwest. Positive Presence Index scores for knowing what would work best for me, comforting touch, taking care of everything so I could concentrate, and understanding what I was saying were significantly higher among women when nurses used the CALM tool to guide labor support. The CALM scale needs further testing with a larger, more diverse population.


A novel Gateaux derivatives with efficient DCNN-Resunet method for segmenting multi-class brain tumor.
In hospitals and pathology, observing the features and locations of brain tumors in Magnetic Resonance Images (MRI) is a crucial task for assisting medical professionals in both treatment and diagnosis. The multi-class information about the brain tumor is often obtained from the patient's MRI dataset. However, this information may vary in different shapes and sizes for various brain tumors, making it difficult to detect their locations in the brain. To resolve these issues, a novel customized Deep Convolution Neural Network (DCNN) based Residual-Unet (ResUnet) model with Transfer Learning (TL) is proposed for predicting the locations of the brain tumor in an MRI dataset. The DCNN model has been used to extract the features from input images and select the Region Of Interest (ROI) by using the TL technique for training it faster. Furthermore, the min-max normalizing approach is used to enhance the color intensity value for particular ROI boundary edges in the brain tumor images. Specifically, the boundary edges of the brain tumors have been detected by utilizing Gateaux Derivatives (GD) method to identify the multi-class brain tumors precisely. The proposed scheme has been validated on two datasets namely the brain tumor, and Figshare MRI datasets for detecting multi-class Brain Tumor Segmentation (BTS).The experimental results have been analyzed by evaluation metrics namely, accuracy (99.78, and 99.03), Jaccard Coefficient (93.04, and 94.95), Dice Factor Coefficient (DFC) (92.37, and 91.94), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) (0.0019, and 0.0013), and Mean Squared Error (MSE) (0.0085, and 0.0012) for proper validation. The proposed system outperforms the state-of-the-art segmentation models on the MRI brain tumor dataset.


Global trends in perioperative stroke research from 2003 to 2022: a web of science-based bibliometric and visual analysis.
Perioperative stroke is a potentially devastating complication in surgical patients, which has attracted global attention. This retrospective bibliometric and visual analysis evaluates the status and global trends in perioperative stroke research. Papers published between 2003 and 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science core collection. Extracted data were summarized and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and further bibliometric and co-occurrence analyses were conducted using VOSviewer and CiteSpace software. Publications on perioperative stroke have increased over the years. The USA topped the list of countries with the highest number of publications and citations, while Canada had the highest mean citation frequency. The Journal of Vascular Surgery and Annals of Thoracic Surgery had the highest number of publications and citation frequency for perioperative stroke. Regarding authors, Malas, Mahmoud B. contributed the most publications to the field, and Harvard University had the highest number of publications (409 papers). Based on an overlay visualization map, timeline view, and the strongest strength burst of keywords, "antiplatelet therapy," "antithrombotic therapy," "carotid revascularization," "bleeding complications," "postoperative cognitive dysfunction," "intraoperative hypotension," "thrombectomy," "cerebral revascularization," "valve surgery," "tranexamic acid," and "frozen elephant trunk" were trending topics in perioperative stroke research. Publications regarding perioperative stroke have experienced rapid growth in the past 20 years and are likely to continuously increase. Research on perioperative antiplatelet and antithrombotic, cardiovascular surgery, postoperative cognitive dysfunction, thrombectomy, tranexamic acid, and frozen elephant trunk has attracted increasing attention, and these topics are emerging hotspots of present research and possible candidates for future research.


Two modes of secretion in pancreatic acinar cells: involvement of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and regulation by capacitative Ca(2+) entry.
In pancreatic acinar cells, muscarinic agonists stimulate both the release of Ca(2+) from intracellular stores and the influx of extracellular Ca(2+). The part played by Ca(2+) released from intracellular stores in the regulation of secretion is well established; however, the role of Ca(2+) influx in exocytosis is unclear. Recently, we observed that supramaximal concentrations of acetylcholine (>or=10 microM) elicited an additional component of exocytosis despite reducing Ca(2+) influx. In the present study, we found that supramaximal exocytosis was substantially inhibited (approximately 70%) by wortmannin (100 nM), an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. In contrast, exocytosis evoked by a lower concentration of acetylcholine (1 microM) was potentiated (approximately 45%) by wortmannin. Exocytosis stimulated by 1 microM acetylcholine in the absence of extracellular Ca(2+) was, like supramaximal exocytosis, inhibited by wortmannin. The switch to a wortmannin-inhibitable form of exocytosis depended upon a reduction in Ca(2+) entry through store-operated Ca(2+) channels, as the switch in exocytotic mode could also be brought about by the selective blockade of these channels by Gd(3+) (2 microM), but not by inhibition of noncapacitative Ca(2+) entry by SB203580 (10 microM). We conclude that supramaximal doses of acetylcholine lead to a switch in the mode of zymogen granule exocytosis by inhibiting store-dependent Ca(2+) influx.


Effects of chronic alcohol intake and secretory stimulation on sodium taurocholate-induced pancreatic necrosis in the rat.
The effects of long-term alcohol intake and pancreatic secretory stimulation on pancreatic necrosis were studied in rats with acute pancreatitis induced by an intraductal injection of sodium taurocholate. Neither alcohol nor pancreozymin alone influenced the extent of pancreatic tissue damage in this experimental model. However, when animals were exposed to both alcohol and pancreozymin, the tissue lesions induced by the bile salt were wider than those in the presence of either alcohol or secretory stimulation alone. The results indicate that secretory stimulation with pancreozymin superimposed on chronic alcohol intake sensitizes the pancreas to the injury caused by intraductal bile salt administration.


Severe craniocerebral trauma with sequelae caused by Flash-Ball® shot, a less-lethal weapon: Report of one case and review of the literature.
The use of Flash-Ball® as a non-lethal weapon by several special units within the police and police forces started in France in 1995. Little literature is available concerning injuries caused by Flash-Ball® shooting. However, we report the case of a healthy 34-year-old male victim of a Flash-Ball® shooting during a riot following a sports event. This young man presented serious craniocerebral injuries with a left temporal fracture, moderate cerebral oedema, fronto-temporal haemorrhagic contusion along with an extra-dural hematoma and subarachnoid hemorrhage requiring neurological and rehabilitation care for two months leaving important sequelae. Although the risk is obviously lower than with firearms, Flash-Ball® is nonetheless potentially lethal and may cause serious physical injuries, particularly after a shot to the head.


Effect of anchoring 4-anilidopiperidines to opioid peptides.
We report here the design, synthesis, and in vitro characterization of new opioid peptides featuring a 4-anilidopiperidine moiety. Despite the fact that the chemical structures of fentanyl surrogates have been found suboptimal per se for the opioid activity, the corresponding conjugates with opioid peptides displayed potent opioid activity. These studies shed an instructive light on the strategies and potential therapeutic values of anchoring the 4-anilidopiperidine scaffold to different classes of opioid peptides.


Interaction of CCK with pancreatic acinar cells.
Recent studies demonstrate that cholecystokinin-like peptides are widely distributed in the CNS as well as in the peripheral nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. Studies with agonists have demonstrated multiple classes of receptors and recently potent receptor antagonists have been described which will distinguish these classes and should allow a better understanding of the role of CCK in various physiological processes. One of the known peripheral physiological functions of CCK is the stimulation of digestive enzymes from pancreatic acinar cells. In recent years the interaction of CCK with pancreatic acinar cells has been extensively studied and significant advances have been made in understanding its cellular basis of action. Robert Jensen and colleagues report on each of these areas.


Surgery in acute leukemia: a review of 167 operations in thrombocytopenic patients.
Of 435 consecutive patients with acute leukemia, 95 patients had 167 operations with a platelet count of less than 100 X 10(9)/L and 130 operations with platelet counts of less than 50 X 10(9)/L. Only 7% of operations had intraoperative blood loss of greater than 500 ml, and 7% required greater than 4 units of red cells transfused in the perioperative period. No patient died of bleeding attributable to surgery within 1 month of the operation. Granulocyte count was less than 0.5 X 10(9)/L in 66% of operations with 57% febrile preoperatively. However, no patient developed infection within the surgical field in the postoperative month. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess preoperative factors, which identified those operations at risk for excessive bleeding or postoperative surgical complications. Major (group 1) operations, preoperative fever, and preoperative coagulation abnormalities were associated with operations with an intraoperative blood loss greater than 500 ml and/or perioperative red blood cell RBC transfusions greater than 4 units (P less than .001). Surgery in cytopenic patients with acute leukemia is safe provided optimal supportive care is available.


Modulation of motor behaviour by NMDA- and cholecystokinin-antagonism.
Motor behaviour relies on complex neurochemical interactions in the basal ganglia, in particular the striatum. Antagonistic influences in this region are exerted by afferent projections from, on the one hand, the ventral mesencephalon, utilizing dopamine as a transmitter, and, on the other hand, from the cerebral cortex, signalling by the excitatory amino acid glutamate. The activity in both these neuronal populations appears to be regulated by the neuropeptide cholecystokinin. This article concentrates on interactions between cholecystokinin and glutamate, summarizing some recent morphological, biochemical and behavioural findings. It is suggested that cholecystokinin, acting via the cholecystokininB receptor, potentiates the glutamatergic excitatory input to the striatum.


Richard III -- the final act.
On 4 February 2013 experts confirmed that the remains of the last English king to die in battle were found under a council car park in Leicester, England. Richard III, the last Plantagenet king, wore the crown from 1483 until his untimely death in 1485. There have been many myths published about him, even one with a dental reference. This paper explores what dentistry was like at the time of Richard III, reveals the truth behind the myths and sees how the University of Leicester's findings about his dentition and skull has provided an insight into his identification, lifestyle and final moments.


Report of a single-institution experience using the EVT endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm graft in 25 patients.
The purpose of this study was to review a single-institution experience with the Endovascular Technologies [(EVT) Menlo Park, CA] transfemoral, endovascular system of abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. This study was performed at a medical center participating in the phase 1 and phase 2 evaluations of the EVT device. We reviewed the 25 cases performed at our institution. The patient population consisted of 21 males (84%) and 4 females (16%), with a mean age of 73.4 years. A total of eight tube grafts (32%) and 17 bifurcated grafts (68%) were attempted. Twenty-two of the twenty-five grafts were successfully implanted endovascularly (88%). Implantation failures were due to tortuosity or inadequate caliber of the iliac arteries, or incorrect positioning of the graft. The results show that endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysms is an appropriate treatment for selected patients. Conversions to open repair have decreased as experience has grown; careful patient selection can minimize the number of unsuccessful implantations. Patient selection and accurate technique can also minimize the number of endoleaks.


Community-based bilingual doulas for migrant women in labour and birth - findings from a Swedish register-based cohort study.
Community-based bilingual doula (CBD) services have been established to respond to migrant women's needs and reduce barriers to high quality maternity care. The aim of this study was to compare birth outcomes for migrant women who received CBD support in labour with birth outcomes for (1) migrant women who experienced usual care without CBD support, and (2) Swedish-born women giving birth during the same time period and at the same hospitals. Register study based on data retrieved from a local CBD register in Gothenburg, the Swedish Medical Birth Register and Statistics Sweden. Birth outcomes for migrant women with CBD support were compared with those of migrant women without CBD support and with Swedish-born women. Associations were investigated using multivariable logistic regression, reported as odds ratios (aORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusted for birth year, maternal age, marital status, hypertension, diabetes, BMI, disposable income and education. Migrant women with CBD support (n = 880) were more likely to have risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes than migrant women not receiving CBD support (n = 16,789) and the Swedish-born women (n = 129,706). In migrant women, CBD support was associated with less use of pain relief in nulliparous women (epidural aOR 0.64, CI 0.50-0.81; bath aOR 0.64, CI 0.42-0.98), and in parous women with increased odds of induction of labour (aOR 1.38, CI 1.08-1.76) and longer hospital stay after birth (aOR 1.19, CI 1.03-1.37). CBD support was not associated with non-instrumental births, perineal injury or low Apgar score. Compared with Swedish-born women, migrant women with CBD used less pain relief (nulliparous women: epidural aOR 0.50, CI 0.39-0.64; nitrous oxide aOR 0.71, CI 0.54-0.92; bath aOR 0.55, CI 0.36-0.85; parous women: nitrous oxide aOR 0.68, CI 0.54-0.84) and nulliparous women with CBD support had increased odds of emergency caesarean section (aOR 1.43, CI 1.05-1.94) and longer hospital stay after birth (aOR 1.31, CI 1.04-1.64). CBD support appears to have potential to reduce analgesia use in migrant women with vulnerability to adverse outcomes. Further studies of effects of CBD support on mode of birth and other obstetric outcomes and women's experiences and well-being are needed.


Clinical and histological evaluation of a single high energy microwave treatment for primary axillary hyperhidrosis in Asians: A prospective, randomized, controlled, split-area comparative trial.
Microwave treatment is an effective non-invasive treatment option for primary axillary hyperhidrosis (PAH), but the treatment parameters vary and no histopathological studies have been performed to validate clinical outcomes. This study investigated its efficacy and safety and histopathological changes after a single microwave treatment at the maximum energy level for PAH in Asians. A prospective, clinical, and histological split-area randomized controlled trial (RCT) was performed in Japan. Twenty-six subjects underwent a single microwave treatment at the maximum energy level 5 (5.8 GHz/axilla) on the randomized side of axillae. The primary outcome was the mean difference between both sides in the improvement of modified single-underarm Hyperhidrosis Disease Severity Scale (msHDSS) scores over the course of the 12-month study period from baseline. The secondary outcomes were; the percentage of responders with at least a 2-point drop in the msHDSS score of 3 or 4 group or with a 1-point drop in the msHDSS score of 2 group; the percentage of responders with at least a 75% reduction in sweat weight over 12 months; recurrence rate; and adverse effects. We also performed a histological assessment for 13 selected subjects. Twenty-four subjects completed the study. There were statistically significant differences in improvement of msHDSS scores between the microwave-treated and control sides (P < 0.05) from baseline at 0.5, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. In the msHDSS score of 3 or 4 group, the percentage of responders with at least a 2-point drop on the microwave-treated side versus control side was 72.2 versus 11.1% (P < 0.05) at 1 month, 83.3 versus 5.6% (P < 0.05) at 3 months, 61.1 versus 38.9% (P = 0.317) at 6 months and 38.9 versus 16.7% (P = 0.264) at 12 months. The percentage of responders with at least a 75% reduction in sweat weight on the microwave-treated side versus control side was 75.0 versus 37.5% at 1 month, 75.0 versus 29.2% at 3 months, 83.3 versus 50.0% at 6 months and 70.8 versus 33.3% at 12 months (all P < 0.05). Recurrence on the microwave-treated side was observed in 4.2% and 12.5% of 24 subjects at 3 and 12 months, respectively. No serious side-effects were noted. Histology showed the diameter and density of secretory eccrine glands and nerve fiber lengths around eccrine glands were significantly decreased after treatment compared to baseline (P = 0.002, 0.027, 0.003, respectively). A single-session microwave treatment at the maximum energy level significantly improved the PAH of Japanese patients and had minimal side effects. This technique demonstrates that diminished size of secretory eccrine glands and nerve fiber degeneration could be useful markers for predicting the efficacy of the treatment. Lasers Surg. Med. 9999:1-8, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.


Hemoglobin Hirose: A rare beta chain variant causing falsely low HbA1c by HPLC.
To investigate the underlying cause of unexpectedly low HbA1c results (3.3-3.5%) obtained by HPLC in three siblings undergoing routine screening for type 2 diabetes mellitus. HbA1c was measured using an alternate method based on a different analytical principle (the Siemens DCA 2000+ immunoassay). Hemoglobin fractionation was performed by HPLC on the BioRad Variant II, gel electrophoresis at acid and alkaline pH on the Sebia Hydrasys 2, and capillary electrophoresis on the Sebia Capillarys 2. Sequencing of the beta globin gene was also conducted. HbA1c analysis by immunoassay gave significantly higher results, ranging from 5.2-5.5%. Hemoglobin fractionation by HPLC showed an abnormal peak comprising approximately 43% of total hemoglobin, suggesting the presence of a beta chain hemoglobin variant. Gel electrophoresis at alkaline pH revealed a very unusual pattern, with 3 abnormal bands migrating with Hb F, between Hb F and Hb S, and slightly cathodal to Hb S. A single band in the Hb A position was seen on gel electrophoresis at acid pH. Capillary electrophoresis revealed two abnormal peaks, comprising 42% and 5% of total hemoglobin. Sequencing of the beta globin gene showed heterozygosity for Hb Hirose (beta 37(C3) Trp>Ser), an extremely rare variant with a substitution at the α1β2 interface. We describe the chromatographic and electrophoretic properties of Hb Hirose, and demonstrate that this rare variant causes falsely low HbA1c results on the BioRad variant II Turbo 2.0. Recognition of this interference is crucial in order to prevent reporting erroneous results.


Renal abscess in previously healthy girl.
We describe the case of a previously healthy 11-year-old girl with a Staphylococcal aureus renal abscess. The diagnosis was confirmed by renal ultrasonography and abdominal computed tomography. We emphasize the need to obtain an abdominal ultrasound scan and computed tomography scan in patients with abdominal or flank pain, and laboratory evidences of infection to avoid diagnostic and therapeutic delays.


Cattle and Nematodes Under Global Change: Transmission Models as an Ally.
Nematode infections are an important economic constraint to cattle farming. Future risk levels and transmission dynamics will be affected by changes in climate and farm management. The prospect of altered parasite epidemiology in combination with anthelmintic resistance requires the adaptation of current control approaches. Mathematical models that simulate disease dynamics under changing climate and farm management can help to guide the optimization of helminth control strategies. Recent efforts have increasingly employed such models to assess the impact of predicted climate scenarios on future infection pressure for gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) in cattle, and to evaluate possible adaptive control measures. This review aims to consolidate progress in this field to facilitate further modeling and application.


[Sequelae of hand burns].
Hand burns are common. Aesthetic and functional consequences are mixed together. Palmar and dorsal skin are very different. Palmar skin is thick and strong, dedicated to the prehension. Dorsal skin is very thin, creating a mobility plan dedicated to the flexion of the fingers. They are rarely isolated. Proximal nail retractions can occur after nail burns, with matricial exposition. We remove the scar and a full skin graft is done in order to give a normal proximal nail skin shape. They are fingers and wrist retractions. We often use collagen substitute to cover soft tissue defect after scar excision. Commissure retractions are treated by trident plasty. Electrical burns: we expose the case of a thumb amputation after necrosis by electrical burn, secondary treated by index policization. Children burns: the bridles appear during the growth, so we must follow this patient for a long time. Hand burns are frequent. Functional sequelae are often important: retractions, amputations. The orthopaedic treatment of these retractions is unspecific. We often use collagen substitute in our unit. The patient must be involved in his treatment, because it is very long and difficult.


Aminopropyltrimethoxysilane- and aminopropyltrimethoxysilane-silver-modified montmorillonite for the removal of nitrate ions.
A natural clay (Mn) modified with γ-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane (Mn-S) and silver (Mn-S-Ag) were evaluated as a potential adsorption media for nitrate removal from water. These materials were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, zeta-potential, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy and elemental analyses. First, the adsorption capacity of the Mn-S clay for Ag(+) was studied. The cation adsorption capacity was almost three times greater for Mn-S than for Mn because a metal-amino group complex is favored. Second, the nitrate adsorption on Mn-S and Mn-S-Ag was studied as a function of contact time, pH, temperature and adsorbent dosage using batch techniques. In the absence of Ag(+), [Formula: see text] adsorption was high at low pH and the amount of adsorbed nitrate decreased as the pH increased. For the Mn-S, the following monolayer adsorption capacities were obtained: Qmax = 0.80, 0.72 and 0.68 mmol [Formula: see text]/g at pH 3, 5 and 7, respectively, whereas for the Mn-S-Ag the values obtained were: Qmax = 0.77, 0.74 and 0.42 mmol [Formula: see text]/g at pH 3, 5 and 7, respectively. From the results obtained, [Formula: see text] adsorption occurs over [Formula: see text] surface groups without involving the Ag(+) cation in the adsorption process.


DeSUMOylating isopeptidase: a second class of SUMO protease.
The modification of proteins by small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) is crucial for the regulation of diverse cellular processes. Protein SUMOylation is reversed by isopeptidases, collectively known as deSUMOylases. Only one family of SUMO-specific proteases has been described so far: the sentrin-specific proteases (SENP). Here, we identify and characterize a new deSUMOylase, which we have named DeSI-1 (DeSumoylating Isopeptidase 1). We describe BZEL—a new transcriptional repressor—as substrate of DeSI-1. DeSI-1 catalyses the deSUMOylation, but not the deubiquitination, of BZEL. Furthermore, the SENP substrates PML and ΔNp63 are not deSUMOylated by DeSI-1, suggesting that SENP and DeSI enzymes recognize different sets of substrates. Together, these data identify a second class of SUMO proteases.


The Trio Trial - A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Evaluating the Effect of a Biocompatible Peritoneal Dialysis Solution on Residual Renal Function.
♦ Residual renal function (RRF) correlates with mortality and morbidity rates in patients receiving peritoneal dialysis (PD). We examined the effect of a biocompatible PD solution (Gambrosol Trio; Gambro Lundia AB, Lund, Sweden) with lower concentrations of glucose degradation products on rates of decline in RRF. ♦ Incident patients at 2 centers in Canada and 1 in Hong Kong were randomized (by minimization) in an open-label parallel group trial to receive Gambrosol Trio or standard PD solution (Dianeal; Baxter Healthcare, Mississauga, Canada) for 2 years. Primary outcome was slope of RRF. Secondary outcomes were urine volumes, fluid and nutrition indices, PD and membrane characteristics, peritonitis rates, adverse events, and PD technique survival. ♦ Residual renal function declined by 0.132 mL/minute/1.73 m(2)/month in 51 patients allocated to biocompatible, and 0.174 mL/minute/1.73 m(2)/month in 50 patients allocated to standard PD solution (difference 0.042 mL/minute/1.73 m(2)/month, p = 0.001). Urine volume, body mass index, normalized protein catabolic rates, and fat mass were higher; total body water, peritoneal ultrafiltration, and D/P creatinine did not differ; and serum phosphate, rates of icodextrin, and automated cycler use were lower with Gambrosol Trio use. There were more peritonitis events with Gambrosol Trio use, while PD technique survival did not differ between groups. ♦ The use of the biocompatible PD solution Gambrosol Trio was associated with slower rates of decline in RRF, fluid and nutrition benefits, and increased peritonitis rates. ISRCTN26252543.


Genetic control of signal transduction in mouse melanocytes.
At the final step of melanocyte differentiation in mouse hair follicles, the cells produce melanin. The type of melanin they produce is, however, determined by the tissue environment of hair follicles. In wild-type mice, melanocytes located in hair bulbs synthesize eumelanin at the beginning of hair growth. They subsequently produce pheomelanin and finally produce eumelanin again. Therefore, the hair is characterized by a subterminal band of yellow, with the rest of it displaying black. This characteristic is called the agouti pattern and is known to be determined by the wild-type allele, A at the a (agouti) locus, which is considered to function in the follicular cells. Expression of the agouti pattern is altered by genetic substitutions at the a locus and the e (extension) locus. Animals heterozygous for the Ay (lethal yellow) allele exhibit yellow coat color; those homozygous for the e (recessive yellow) also produce yellow hair exclusively. By using an organ culture method, we demonstrated that alpha-MSH and cholera toxin, as well as forskolin, induced eumelanin synthesis in explants from lethal yellow mice (Ay/a). On the other hand, these reagents did not induce eumelanogenesis in the hair follicles of recessive yellow (e/e) mice. Therefore, we assume that the product of the a locus, which probably functions in follicle cells, interacts with alpha-MSH at the alpha-MSH receptor and that the e locus controls the functionality of adenylate cyclase in the membrane of mouse melanocytes.


The majority of Danish women are working, and many are standing/walking or lifting heavy objects at work. It is important for employers and employees to assess ergonomic risk factors in the work environment during pregnancy to avoid potential negative effects on the pregnancy. Studies show that walking/standing > 3-4 h/d may increase the risk of preterm delivery. It is difficult to set specific limits due to heterogenous exposures regarding heavy lifting. Though, results suggest that women should avoid lifting >10 kg repeatedly at work during pregnancy to avoid adverse effects of the pregnancy.


Treating upper limb claudication in a patient with Takayasu's arteritis with carotid-to-subclavian bypass: A case report.
Takayasu's Arteritis (TA) is a rare form of large vessel vasculitis often being apparent late in its progression with features of artery occlusion. Studies comparing endovascular approach with bypass surgeries reveal surgery to be a better option with lesser rates of postoperative restenosis. A 25-year-old female patient presented with dizziness, headache, claudication and paresthesias in the right arm. Her right radial pulse couldn't be appreciated and BP on the right brachial artery was unrecordable. BP on her left brachial artery was 160/110 mmHg. CT angiogram demonstrated stenosis in the right subclavian, coeliac and left renal artery. After adequate control of hypertension and ruling out the active phase of TA, she underwent right carotid to subclavian bypass with Polytetrafluoroethylene(PTFE) graft. At 1 year follow up there was significant improvement in her right arm claudication. Symptomatic cases of TA need either endovascular angioplasty or surgical intervention to establish reperfusion. Surgery must be done only in the inactive phase of the disease because of the risk of reocclusion. The remission of TA is difficult to predict with clinical findings and ESR values. Oftentimes biopsies taken from the arteries of patients who underwent surgery showed features of active inflammation. We recommend all cases of TA to be treated with a course of steroids before planning for surgery irrespective of symptomatology and ESR values. Bypass surgeries with PTFE graft along with preoperative or postoperative steroid therapy result in resolution of ischemic symptoms.


Lipidic Cubic-Phase Nanoparticles (Cubosomes) Loaded with Doxorubicin and Labeled with 177Lu as a Potential Tool for Combined Chemo and Internal Radiotherapy for Cancers.
Lipid liquid-crystalline nanoparticles (cubosomes) were used for the first time as a dual-modality drug delivery system for internal radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy. Monoolein (GMO)-based cubosomes were prepared by loading the anticancer drug, doxorubicin and a commonly used radionuclide, low-energy beta (β-)-emitter, 177Lu. The radionuclide was complexed with a long chain derivative of DOTAGA (DOTAGA-OA). The DOTAGA headgroup of the chelator was exposed to the aqueous channels of the cubosomes, while, concerning OA, the hydrophobic tail was embedded in the nonpolar region of the lipid bilayer matrix, placing the radioactive dopant in a stable manner inside the cubosome. The cubosomes containing doxorubicin and the radionuclide complex increased the cytotoxicity measured by the viability of the treated HeLa cells compared with the effect of single-drug cubosomes containing either the DOX DOTAGA-OA or DOTAGA-OA-177Lu complex. Multifunctional lipidic nanoparticles encapsulating the chemotherapeutic agent together with appropriately complexed (β-) radionuclide are proposed as a potential strategy for effective local therapy of various cancers.


Inflammation and immunity in ovarian cancer.
The standard first-line therapy for ovarian cancer is a combination of surgery and carboplatin/paclitaxel-based chemotherapy. Patients with longer survival and improved response to chemotherapy usually present T-cell inflamed tumours. The presence of tumour-infiltrating T cells (TILs) notably varies among the different subtypes of ovarian tumours, being highest in high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma, intermediate in endometrioid tumours, and lowest in low-grade serous, mucinous and clear cell tumours. Interestingly, the presence of TILs is often accompanied by a strong immunosuppressive tumour environment. A better understanding of the immune response against ovarian cancer and the tumour immune evasion mechanisms will enable improved prognostication, response prediction and immunotherapy of this disease. This article provides an overview of some ovarian cancer cell features relevant for antitumour response, such as tumour-associated antigens, including neoantigens, expression of inhibitory molecules, and other mechanisms of immune evasion. Moreover, we describe relevant immune cell types found in epithelial ovarian tumours, including T and B lymphocytes, regulatory T cells, natural killer cells, tumour-associated macrophages, myeloid-derived suppressor cells and neutrophils. We focus on how these components influence the burden of the tumour and the clinical outcome.


The consequences of an increase in heavy goods vehicles for passenger car drivers' mental workload and behaviour: a simulator study.
The effects of an increase in Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) on merging behaviour and on mental workload of motorists during filtering in and out of traffic were studied. Participants drove in a driving simulator in a total of 12 conditions; twice in each of two weather conditions and in three traffic conditions. The weather conditions were clear weather and foggy weather. The traffic conditions were without HGVs (i.e. only private cars), the current mix of HGVs and private cars, and a condition with a 70% increase of HGVs leading to an HGV column in the slow lane. The focus of the study was on assessing effects on behaviour and mental workload during filtering into traffic, and during exiting from the motorway. During the experiment driving performance was registered, behaviour was observed, self reports were collected, and the participant's heart rate was recorded. The results showed that directly after filtering into traffic the variation in driving speed increased and the minimum time headway decreased with an increase in the proportion of HGVs. Joining motorway traffic was considered to involve greater effort and risk in the condition with a column of HGVs. The effects of the conditions on heart rate are less clear, although the moment when the participants joined the traffic is clearly visible. The effects of weather conditions were limited, drivers adapting their driving behaviour in adverse weather by reducing speed. To exit the motorway is not a difficult manoeuvre. For that reason the lane change from the left hand to the right hand lane that preceded the exit was analysed. Although increased mental effort was reported and the lane change was visible in the heart rate record, no critical changes as a result of increase in proportion of HGVs were found for this manoeuvre. However, in the condition with a column of HGVs, the exit that had to be taken was most frequently missed as HGVs obstructed the view of the exit signs. It is concluded that an increase in HGVs will make merging into traffic more mentally demanding and will decrease safety margins.


Three-Dimensional Forehead Reflation.
The rising popularity of the three-dimensional reflation of the mid and lower face has prompted interest in upperfacial reflation. We have been asked to share our technique for subgaleal three-dimensional forehead reflation. We have described our anatomic approach, our modification of the hyaluronic acid (HA) filler to achieve reduced viscosity and our injection technique. Immediately after the forehead reflation there is mild brow ptosis due to the lidocaine within the HA filler. This reverses in 30 to 60 minutes post injection. There is a need for further enhancement about 2-3 weeks later in approximately 30 percent of subjects. The results last between 10-12 months. Three-dimensional subgaleal forehead reflation is an effective and safe procedure when performed with an HA filler and a knowledge of the periorbital vascular anatomy.


Sensory disturbance and polyneuropathy in rheumatoid arthritis patients with foot deformity.
Our aim in this study was to present the results of sensory evaluation tests and electrophysiological evaluations in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with foot deformity and to determine their relation with general health status and lower extremity functionality. Fifty-one patients with RA diagnosis and foot deformity were included in the study. Demographic and disease characteristics of the patients were recorded, and a detailed neurological examination was performed. Superficial sensation, pain, heat, vibration, and two-point discrimination sensation were evaluated in each foot, and their sum was used to determine the sensory deficits index (SDI) of 0-10. The presence of polyneuropathy was evaluated with electrophysiological methods. The Health Assessment Questionnaire and mobility and walking subscales of the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales-2 were used to assess general health status and lower extremity functionality, respectively. According to the sensory examination and electromyography results, patients were compared in terms of their general health status and lower extremity functional status. Sensory disturbance was detected in 39 patients (74%) during the examination; however, 27 patients (52.9%) had polyneuropathy determined electrophysiologically. In patients with sensory deficits, statistically significant deterioration was detected in general health and foot functionality, including mobility and walking, when compared to patients with a normal sensory evaluation. Even in the presence of normal electrophysiological tests, sensory dysfunction alone seems to be associated with severe disability in general health status and foot functionality when compared to patients with a normal sensory examination.


Long-term outcomes of the pay-for-performance program for patients with young-onset (20-40 years of age) type 2 diabetes.
To investigate the long-term outcomes of Pay-for-Performance (P4P) care in patients with young-onset (20-40 years of age) diabetes (YOD). We recruited 3088 pairs of propensity-score matched patients with and without P4P care from the National Health Insurance Research Database between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2017. The study used a multivariable Cox regression model to compare the risks of mortality, hospitalization for cardiovascular events, and major microvascular outcomes in YOD patients with and without P4P care. The multivariable-adjusted model showed that patients with P4P care had significantly lower risks of mortality (aHR 0.31, 95% CI 0.25-0.38) and hospitalization for cardiovascular events (aHR 0.63, 95% CI 0.5-0.79) but a significantly higher risk of major microvascular outcomes (aHR 1.31, 95% CI 1.07-1.6). Patients with a longer cumulative duration of P4P and complete P4P care showed further lower risks of mortality, hospitalization for cardiovascular events, and major microvascular outcomes than those without P4P care. This nationwide cohort study showed that young-onset diabetes patients with P4P care had lower risks of death and cardiovascular events but a higher risk of major microvascular outcomes. However, patients with a longer duration of P4P care showed lower risks of these outcomes.


Medical, nursing, and physician assistant student knowledge and attitudes toward climate change, pollution, and resource conservation in health care.
Climate change and pollution generated by the health care sector impose significant public health burdens. This study aimed to assess medical, nursing and physician assistant student knowledge and attitudes regarding climate change, pollution from the health care sector, and responsibility for resource conservation within professional practice. In February-March, 2018, medical, nursing, and physician assistant students at Yale University (1011 potential respondents) were sent a 17-question online Qualtrics survey. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, as well as Fisher's exact test and logistic regression to assess associations between variables of interest and the personal characteristics of gender, age, geographic place of origin, school, and year in school (among medical students). The response rate was 28% (280 respondents). 90% felt that physicians, nurses, and physician assistants have a responsibility to conserve resources and prevent pollution within their professional practice. 63% agreed or strongly agreed that the relationship between pollution, climate change, and health should be covered in the classroom and should be reinforced in the clinical setting. 57% preferred or strongly preferred reusable devices. 91% felt lack of time and production pressure, and 85% believed that lack of education on disease burden stemming from health care pollution, were barriers to taking responsibility for resource conservation and pollution prevention. Women and physician assistant students exhibited a greater commitment than men and medical students, respectively, to address pollution, climate change, and resource conservation in patient care and professional practice. We found that health professional students are engaged with the concept of environmental stewardship in clinical practice and would like to see pollution, climate change, and health covered in their curriculum. In order for this education to be most impactful, more research and industry transparency regarding the environmental footprint of health care materials and specific clinician resource consumption patterns will be required.


Using isotope pool dilution to understand how organic carbon additions affect N2 O consumption in diverse soils.
Nitrous oxide (N2 O) is a formidable greenhouse gas with a warming potential ~300× greater than CO2 . However, its emissions to the atmosphere have gone largely unchecked because the microbial and environmental controls governing N2 O emissions have proven difficult to manage. The microbial process N2 O consumption is the only know biotic pathway to remove N2 O from soil pores and therefore reduce N2 O emissions. Consequently, manipulating soils to increase N2 O consumption by organic carbon (OC) additions has steadily gained interest. However, the response of N2 O emissions to different OC additions are inconsistent, and it is unclear if lower N2 O emissions are due to increased consumption, decreased production, or both. Simplified and systematic studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of different OC additions on N2 O consumption. We aimed to manipulate N2 O consumption by amending soils with OC compounds (succinate, acetate, propionate) more directly available to denitrifiers. We hypothesized that N2 O consumption is OC-limited and predicted these denitrifier-targeted additions would lead to enhanced N2 O consumption and increased nosZ gene abundance. We incubated diverse soils in the laboratory and performed a 15 N2 O isotope pool dilution assay to disentangle microbial N2 O emissions from consumption using laser-based spectroscopy. We found that amending soils with OC increased gross N2 O consumption in six of eight soils tested. Furthermore, three of eight soils showed Increased N2 O Consumption and Decreased N2 O Emissions (ICDE), a phenomenon we introduce in this study as an N2 O management ideal. All three ICDE soils had low soil OC content, suggesting ICDE is a response to relaxed C-limitation wherein C additions promote soil anoxia, consequently stimulating the reduction of N2 O via denitrification. We suggest, generally, OC additions to low OC soils will reduce N2 O emissions via ICDE. Future studies should prioritize methodical assessment of different, specific, OC-additions to determine which additions show ICDE in different soils.


Direct action of a protein-bound polysaccharide, PSK, on transforming growth factor-beta.
We investigated the action of a protein-bound polysaccharide, PSK, on transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta). (1) In in vitro-mixed culture of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from healthy human and mitomycin C-treated human colon cancer cells, PSK or polyclonal antibody to TGF-beta significantly enhanced incorporation of 3H-thymidine into PBMC, and apparently decreased TGF-beta1 levels of acid-treated culture supernatant. (2) PSK or the antibody interfered with the quantitation by enzyme immunoassay of TGF-beta1 in acid-treated supernatant of the mixed culture. (3) PSK was suggested to form a complex with 125I-human recombinant TGF-beta1 standard, when changes in molecular weight of radioactivities were assessed by gel filtration. Recombinant human TGF-beta1 inhibited growth of mink lung epithelial cell line Mv1Lu and promoted collagen synthesis in rat kidney fibroblast cell line NRK49F, but the complex did not have such activities. (4) In addition to TGF-beta1, PSK bound with TGF-beta2 and platelet-derived growth factor; however, PSK did not bind with 22 other species of cytokines and growth factors. (5) Protein moiety of PSK is suggested to play an important role in the expression of the activity. These results suggest that PSK modulates the biological activity of TGF-beta1 by binding to its active form.


Effect of CGRP and sumatriptan on the BOLD response in visual cortex.
To test the hypothesis that calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) modulates brain activity, we investigated the effect of intravenous CGRP on brain activity in response to a visual stimulus. In addition, we examined if possible alteration in brain activity was reversed by the anti-migraine drug sumatriptan. Eighteen healthy volunteers were randomly allocated to receive CGRP infusion (1.5 μg/min for 20 min) or placebo. In vivo activity in the visual cortex was recorded before, during and after infusion and after 6 mg subcutaneous sumatriptan by functional magnetic resonance imaging (3 T). 77% of the participants reported headache after CGRP. We found no changes in brain activity after CGRP (P = 0.12) or after placebo (P = 0.41). Sumatriptan did not affect brain activity after CGRP (P = 0.71) or after placebo (P = 0.98). Systemic CGRP or sumatriptan has no direct effects on the BOLD activity in visual cortex. This suggests that in healthy volunteers both CGRP and sumatriptan may exert their actions outside of the blood-brain barrier.


Implementation and Operational Research: Effectiveness and Patient Acceptability of a Sexually Transmitted Infection Self-Testing Program in an HIV Care Setting.
Rates of screening for bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STI) among men who have sex with men in HIV care settings remain low despite high prevalence of these infections. STI self-testing may help increase screening rates in clinical settings. We implemented an STI self-testing program at a large, urban HIV care clinic and evaluated its effectiveness and acceptability. We compared measures obtained during the first year of the STI self-testing program (Intervention Year, April 1, 2013-March 31, 2014) to Baseline Year (January 1, 2012-December 31, 2012) to determine: (1) overall clinic change in STI testing coverage and diagnostic yield and; (2) program-specific outcomes including appropriate anatomic site screening and patient-reported acceptability. Overall, testing for gonorrhea and chlamydia increased significantly between Baseline and Intervention Year, and 50% more gonococcal and 47% more chlamydial infections were detected. Syphilis testing coverage remained unchanged. Nearly 95% of 350 men who participated in the STI self-testing program completed site-specific testing appropriately based on self-reported exposures, and 92% rated their self-testing experience as "good" or "very good." STI self-testing in HIV care settings significantly increases testing coverage and detection of gonorrhea and chlamydia, and the program is acceptable to patients. Additional interventions to increase syphilis screening rates are needed.


MAPRE2 regulates the first meiotic progression in mouse oocytes.
Microtubule plus-end tracking proteins (+TIPs) associate with growing microtubule plus ends and control microtubule dynamics and interactions with different cellular structures during cell division, cell migration and morphogenesis. Microtubule-associated RP/EB family member 2 (MAPRE2/EB2) is a highly conserved core component of +TIPs networks, but whether this molecule is required for mammalian meiotic progression is unknown. In this study, we investigated the expression and function of MAPRE2 during oocyte maturation. Our results showed that MAPRE2 was consistently expressed from germinal vesicle (GV) to metaphase II (MII) stages and that MAPRE2 was distributed in the cytoplasm of oocytes at GV stage and along the spindle at metaphase I (MI) and MII stages. Small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of Mapre2 severely impaired microtubule stability, kinetochore-microtubule attachment, and chromosome alignment and subsequently caused spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) activation and cyclin B1 nondegradation, leading to failure of chromosome segregation and first polar body extrusion. This study demonstrates for the first time that MAPRE2 plays an important role during mouse oocyte meiosis.


The relationship between family socioeconomic condition and childhood injury frequency in selected locations in the Czech Republic.
Childhood injury rates are monitored worldwide because they markedly affect morbidity and mortality of children. There are numerous works that point out the relationship between family socioeconomic status and injuries, where lower socioeconomic levels are linked to higher numbers of injuries. The goal of this work was to evaluate the relationship between family socioeconomic status and childhood injuries in the Czech Republic. The research was carried out between 1/7/2009 and 31/12/2010. A 2-part questionnaire was used to gather information. The first part, "Injury/poisoning of children," included information on the injury itself; the second part, "Family functionality," concerned family socioeconomic situations. We collected a total of 874 questionnaires in the South-Bohemian region and 132 questionnaires from a selected county in the North-Bohemian region. A database identical with the questionnaire assignment was established, comprising all the data accumulated. The injury rate in families living in poor socioeconomic situations in locality 8 was statistically significantly higher compared to families in good socioeconomic situations. The number of home injuries was 205. Families with incomes that were twice the subsistence level had more child protective measures in their households. There was a statistically significant relationship between the number of child protective measures and injury frequency in families. Children in families having higher incomes (twice that of subsistence level) were more likely to suffer injuries related to organized sports as compared to those in families having lower incomes. The literature and research data show that preventive programs have the largest effect on reduction in childhood morbidity and mortality with respect to injuries.


Evidence of "cross-stressor"-induced adaptive gastric cytoprotection.
Rats were given 7 days pre-treatment with either water (p.o.), 1 h immobilization or 20% ethanol (p.o.) with or without concomitant indomethacin injection. Following the pre-treatment phase, rats from each pre-treatment group were exposed to either 3 h cold-restraint stress or to 100% ethanol p.o. Results indicated that immobilization and 20% ethanol pre-treatment significantly reduced both cold-restraint stress ulcer formation and 100% ethanol-induced ulcers. Indomethacin co-treatment attenuated the reduction of ulcer formation of both pretreatments. These results suggest that "cross-stressor" adaptive cytoprotection occurs. Indomethacin abolished these effects, implicating the involvement of endogenous prostaglandins in the mediation of "cross-stressor"-induced gastric cytoprotection.