CycFlowDec: A Python module for decomposing flow networks using simple cycles.
New algorithms for determining the expected flow through simple cycles in a closed network are presented. Current network analysis software do not implement algorithms for expected cyclic flow decomposition, despite its potential value. Decomposing networks into expected cycle flows provides a quantitative characterization of network cycles that can be further analyzed for sensitivity and correlative behavior. An efficient, general algorithm has been coded into CycFlowDec, an open source Python module available at https://github.com/austenb28/CycFlowDec.


Serum and amniotic fluid heat labile alkaline phosphatase and aminotransferases in association with meconium stained liquor. On their origin, distribution and clinical use.
A method for detecting meconium in the amniotic fluid is described. Samples of maternal serum, cord serum and amniotic fluid were tested for alkaline phosphatase and transaminases activity in 32 healthy, term gravidas during labor in whom meconium stained amniotic fluid was found. The values obtained were compared to those of a control group consisting of 32 normal term pregnancies in whom the amniotic fluid was clear. Mean alkaline phosphatase activity was significantly higher in the study group in all three compartments - maternal, fetal and amniotic fluid. A significant and positive correlation between levels of alkaline phosphatase in the amniotic fluid and in maternal serum was found in the study group. Alkaline phosphatase value of 550 IU/L or more in maternal serum was diagnostic and levels between 350--500 IU/L were highly suggestive for the presence of menconium in the amniotic fluid. Mean levels of transaminases (SGOT and SGPT) were similar in the two groups and all were within normal range. The origin of alkaline phosphatase and the mode of transfer of the three enzymes are also discussed. It is suggested that this method can also be used during the third trimester of pregnancy.


Knowledge management prerequisites for building an information society in healthcare.
The European Research Area requires either technological development or information literacy of health professionals. This information literacy shall be understood much deeper and broader than a basic preparation to use ICT tools in everyday life only. The author's first aim is to present the literature review and analysis of different definition of the "information" concept in Polish and foreign sources for health sciences, to emphasize a problem fundamental for an information society development, i.e. lack of adequate "information" understanding. Health professionals' information literacy shall also build an awareness of conceptual differences among numerous classifications, thesauruses, and information-retrieval languages, which result in different information received in a retrieval process. This problem can be of crucial effect for either health research or practice. Understanding the problem shall mobilize the researchers, classifiers, and indexers to co-ordinate efforts aimed in organizing "a translator" covering the most popular classifications' and thesauruses' concepts, to make an international research co-operation easier, relevant, and safe for the patients.


Photoacoustic and luminescence spectra study on the effects of chlorine substituent on the energy transfer of Eu(III)-chlorobenzoic acid.
The photoacoustic (PA) amplitude spectra of three complexes of Eu(III) combined with chlorobenzoic acid (Eu(o-ClC6H4CO2)3.H2O, Eu(m-ClC6H4CO2)3.H2O and Eu(p-ClC6H4CO2)3.H2O) have been measured, and the PA phase of the different complexes have been calculated. Both the PA amplitude spectra and the luminescence spectra reflect the variation of the luminescent properties, and the PA phase is directly relative to the relaxation time. Since the relaxation is the process of the intramolecular energy transfer between the ligands and the central ion, the molecular structure of ligand is the important factor to decide the energy gap between the lowest triplet state of ligand and the resonance level of central ion. The effects of chlorine substituent on the molecular structure and energy gap of the complexes have been studied by PA phase and luminescence spectra.


Effectiveness of a primary care intervention to support reading aloud: a multicenter evaluation.
Failure to read at grade level predicts life-long economic and social disability. Early exposure to reading aloud may prevent reading problems. This study seeks to determine whether institution of Reach Out and Read (ROR) programs is associated with increased reading aloud in a national sample. Before-after intervention study: separate convenience samples were studied before and after institution of ROR programs at multiple sites. A convenience sample of parents of children age 6-72 months seeking routine health care at 19 clinical sites in 10 states. The ROR model incorporates anticipatory guidance about reading aloud and distribution of free picture books at health supervision visits from 6 months through 5 years as well as reading aloud in the waiting room. Parents were interviewed about their attitudes and practices related to reading aloud, using questions drawn from validated instruments. The sample included 1647 subjects (730 intervention, 917 comparison). After controlling for multiple potential confounding factors, significant associations were found between exposure to ROR and reading aloud as a favorite parenting activity (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR] 1.6, P < .001); reading aloud at bedtime (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR*rsqb; 1.5, P < .001); reading aloud 3 or more days per week (AOR 1.8, P < .001); and ownership of > or = 10 picture books (AOR 1.6, P < .001). In a national sample, implementation of ROR programs was associated with increased parental support for reading aloud. This study provides evidence of the effectiveness of a primary care intervention strategy to promote reading aloud to young children.


Treatment of myofascial pain-dysfunction syndrome with occlusal equilibration.
Fifty-three patients with a diagnosis of chronic myofascial pain-dysfunction syndrome were treated with occlusal equilibration to establish complete anterior guidance. In approximately 5 to 7 days after treatment, most myofascial pain dysfunction symptoms disappeared and complete symptom resolution was usually attained within 3 weeks. The common symptoms all patients had were (1) pain and fatigue in the masseter and temporal muscles, (2) nocturnal bruxism, (3) jaw tension on waking up, and (4) difficulty chewing some foods. All patients had an absence of true anterior guidance with molar interferences in all excursive movements. Many patients had previously undergone orthodontic therapy and had "ideal" vertical tooth relationships. Treatment consisted of occlusal equilibration to remove all posterior interferences and establish anterior guidance. Three appointments, 1 week apart, were alloted for treatment. Major symptom reduction occurred after the first appointment. Four-year follow-ups reveal no recurrence of chronic symptoms after treatment completion.


Abnormalities in MRI-measured signal intensity in the corpus callosum in schizophrenia.
The microstructural integrity of the corpus callosum (CC) in first-episode schizophrenia patients was assessed by measuring the signal intensity (SI) in T1-weighted MRI images. Analyses revealed that compared to both healthy controls and non-schizophrenic patients, schizophrenia patients showed reductions in SI in all the callosal subregions, the genu, body, isthmus and splenium in first-episode schizophrenia. These results indicate that schizophrenia is characterized by pathology of this principal interhemispheric commissure; the abnormalities may reflect distributed (rather than localized) interhemispheric disconnectivity that extends beyond the heteromodal association cortices.


2D Covalent Organic Frameworks Toward Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution.
Efficiently producing clean energy is of great importance for sustainable development of the environment. Solar-driven water splitting for H2 evolution has an important role among the renewable energy technologies. Developing high-performance and cost-effective photocatalysts is still a critical task before practical application. 2D Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) as photocatalysts have recently attracted widespread interest thanks to their tunable optical bandgaps, tailor-made functionality, excellent crystallinity, high specific surface area, and good photo- and chemical stability. This Review focuses on the representative progress and remaining challenges in 2D COF-based photocatalysts for hydrogen evolution.


Analysis of PTPRK polymorphisms in association with risk and age at onset of Alzheimer's disease, cancer risk, and cholesterol.
The human receptor-type protein-tyrosine phosphatase kappa (PTPRK) gene is highly expressed in human brain and was previously associated with an increased risk of neuropsychiatric disorders and cancer. This study investigated the association of 52 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in PTPRK with the risk and age at onset (AAO) of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in 791 AD patients and 782 controls. Our data analysis showed that five SNPs (top SNP rs4895829 with p = 0.0125) were associated with the risk of AD based on a multiple logistic regression (p < 0.05); while six SNPs (top SNP rs1891150 with p = 8.02 × 10-6) were associated with AAO by using a multiple linear regression analysis. Interestingly, rs2326681 was associated with both the risk and AAO of AD (p = 4.65 × 10-2 and 5.18 × 10-3, respectively). In a replication study, the results from family-based association test - generalized estimating equation (GEE) statistics and Wilcoxon test showed that seven SNPs were associated with the risk of AD (top SNP rs11756545 with p = 1.02 × 10-2) and 12 SNPs were associated with the AAO (top SNP rs11966128 with p = 1.39 × 10-4), respectively. One additional sample showed that four SNPs were associated with risk of cancer (top SNP rs1339197 with p = 4.1 × 10-3), 12 SNPs associated with LDL-cholesterol (top SNP rs4544930 with p = 3.47 × 10-3), and eight SNPs associated with total cholesterol (top SNP rs1012049 with p = 6.09 × 10-3). In addition, the AD associated rs4895829 was associated with the gene expression level in the cerebellum (p = 7.3 × 10-5). The present study is the first study providing evidence of several genetic variants within the PTPRK gene associated with the risk and AAO of AD, risk of cancer, LDL and total cholesterol levels.


Expression and immunolocalisation of the snowdrop lectin, GNA in transgenic rice plants.
Transgenic rice (Oryza sativa L.) plants generated through particle bombardment expressed high levels of an insecticidal protein (the snowdrop lectin, GNA) directed against sap-sucking insects. Engineered plants expressed GNA either constitutively or in a tissue specific manner, depending on the nature of the promoter used to drive expression of the gene. We used specific antibodies raised against GNA to localize its expression in phloem tissue in plants engineered with the rice sucrose synthase promoter driving GNA expression. We report here molecular, biochemical and immunological analyses for fifteen independently-derived transformants out of more than 200 plants we generated.


Scutellaria baicalensis enhances 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy via inhibition of proliferative signaling pathways.
Fluoropyridine-based chemotherapy remains the most widely used treatment for colorectal cancer (CRC). In this study, we investigated the mechanism by which the natural product Scutellaria baicalensis (Huang Qin; HQ) and one of its main components baicalin enhanced 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) antitumor activity against CRC. Cell proliferation assays, cell cycle analysis, reverse-phase protein array (RPPA) analysis, immunoblot analysis, and qRT-PCR were performed to investigate the mechanism(s) of action of HQ and its active components on growth of CRC cells. HQ exhibited in vitro antiproliferative activity against drug resistant human CRC cells, against human and mouse CRC cells with different genetic backgrounds and normal human colon epithelial cells. In vivo animal models were used to document the antitumor activity of HQ and baicalin. The mechanism of growth inhibitory activity of HQ is due to inhibition of proliferative signaling pathways including the CDK-RB pathway. In addition, HQ enhanced the antitumor effects of 5-FU and capecitabine in vivo. Furthermore, we identified baicalin as an active component of HQ. The combination of baicalin and 5-FU demonstrated synergistic activity against 5-FU-resistant RKO-R10 cells. The combination significantly inhibited in vivo tumor growth greater than each treatment alone. RPPA results showed that the signaling pathway alterations in CRC cells were similar following HQ and baicalin treatment. Together, these results indicate that HQ and its component baicalin enhance the effect of 5-fluorouracil-based chemotherapy via inhibition of CDK-RB pathway. These findings may provide the rational basis for developing agents that can overcome the development of cellular drug resistance. Video Abstract.


A case-control study of multiple myeloma in whites: chronic antigenic stimulation, occupation, and drug use.
A hospital-based case-control study of multiple myeloma in whites (100 cases and 100 controls from seven Baltimore hospitals) was conducted to examine a number of postulated risk factors. Cases and controls were matched on age, sex, hospital, and year of diagnosis. Distributions by marital status and religious affiliation were found to be similar. Educational levels of cases were similar to controls except for postcollege schooling, where there was a slight excess of cases (6%) compared to controls (3%). No statistically significant associations were found between multiple myeloma and prior history of medical conditions believed to cause prolonged stimulation of the immune system including chronic bacterial infections [odds ratio (OR) = 0.8], autoimmune disorders (OR = 1.0), allergy-related disorders (OR = 1.0), or lymphoid tissue surgery (OR = 1.2). Statistically significant positive associations were found for occupational exposure to petroleum products (OR = 3.7; 1.3-10.3) and asbestos (OR = 3.5; 1.0-12.0). No increased risk was found for cigarette smoking or alcohol consumption or for employment in a variety of industries and occupations implicated in earlier studies. A significantly elevated risk was found for prior use of laxatives (OR = 3.5; 1.1-11.1), and elevated (OR greater than or equal to 1.8) but nonsignificant risks were found for use of other medications including diphenylhydantoin, phenobarbital, diazepam, propranolol, ibuprofen, and diet drugs and stimulants. These findings require clarification in larger, population-based studies.


Comparison of antibacterial activity and biocompatibility of non-leaching nitrofuran bone cement loaded with vancomycin, gentamicin, and tigecycline.
Non-leaching antibacterial bone cement can generate long-term antibacterial activity, it cannot treat serious infections that have occurred like antibiotic-loaded bone cement. Currently, the antibacterial activity and biocompatibility of non-leaching cement when loaded with antibiotics have yet to be determined. Non-leaching antibacterial nitrofuran bone cement (NFBC) specimens were prepared with low-dose and high-dose antibiotics. The antibacterial activity and biocompatibility of NFBC loaded with vancomycin, gentamicin, and tigecycline were compared. The agar diffusion method was employed to observe the inhibition zone of the samples against two bacterial strains from day one to day seven. The CCK-8 assay and acute liver and kidney toxicity test were conducted to assess the effects of the samples on mouse embryo osteoblast precursor cells and C57 mice, respectively. Gentamicin-loaded cement exhibited the most potent antibacterial activity, effectively inhibiting both bacterial strains at a low dose. Tigecycline-loaded cement demonstrated superior biocompatibility, showing no acute liver and kidney toxicity in mice and minimal cytotoxicity to osteoblasts. NFBC loaded with gentamicin, vancomycin, and tigecycline not only maintains sustained antibacterial activity but also exhibits excellent biocompatibility.


Orthognathic surgery improves quality of life and depression, but not anxiety, and patients with higher preoperative depression scores improve less.
This study assessed quality of life (QoL), depression, and anxiety before and after orthognathic surgery and identified risk factors for poorer postoperative outcome. This multicentre prospective study included 140 patients from five French medical centres. We assessed patients before surgery (T1), 3 months after surgery (T2), and 12 months after surgery (T3). We assessed the severity of the orofacial deformity, physical, psychological, social, and environmental QoL (WHOQOL-BREF), and depression and anxiety (GHQ-28). Risk factors for poorer outcome were identified using linear mixed models. Between baseline and 12 months, there was significant improvement in psychological and social QoL and in depression (although below the norms reported in the general population), but not in anxiety. Physical QoL was poorer in patients who were younger, who had a mild orofacial deformity, and who were depressed. Psychological QoL was poorer in younger patients and in depressed patients. Social QoL was poorer in patients who were single, who had a mild orofacial deformity, and who were depressed. Although orthognathic surgery provides a moderate improvement in psychological and social QoL, the systematic screening and treatment of depression could further improve QoL after surgery because it is a major predictor of poor QoL in this population.


Case report: Crohn's-like mycophenolate-induced colitis, a fallout in steroid-free regimens.
Diarrhea is considered to be a common side effect after renal transplantation, due to a number of infective or drug-related causes. Over the past decade the etiology has perhaps changed with the evolution of immunosuppression. In an attempt to minimize early acute rejection and potential steroid use, the recent introduction of mycophenolic acid-based therapies has increased the incidence of diarrheal symptoms. Histologic and macroscopic appearance of mycophenolate-induced colitis is not well documented. Three patients with immunosuppression-induced colitis had received deceased-donor renal transplantations and presented with diarrhea and/or abdominal pain. All patients made a full recovery after decreasing the dose or withdrawing mycophenolate mofetil or myfortic with corticosteroid-free regimens. Patients with immunosuppression-induced colitis require prompt intervention by dose reduction or withdrawal. Both myocophenolate mofetil and myfortic can induce a Crohn's-like colitis even after a long period of exposure. The symptoms may require 6 months to resolve, suggesting that surgery should be considered only as a last resort after a significant period off therapy.


Nurse practitioners' perceptions of their ability to enact leadership in hospital care.
To gain insight into nurse practitioners' (NP) leadership roles in Dutch hospital care, by exploring the perceptions regarding their current leadership role and the differences with their previous role as a registered specialised nurse. To meet today's challenges of the increasing healthcare demands, the employment of NPs is proliferating. NPs have the ideal position to play a pivotal role within healthcare reforms, yet full expansion of their scope of practice and expertise is having limited success. Long-term sustainability of NPs depends on the ability to perform and develop a leading role. This qualitative descriptive study was conducted in fifteen Dutch hospitals. Data were collected from April-July 2018, and purposive sampling was used for eighteen semi-structured interviews. This study is conducted and reported according to the COREQ checklist. Three main themes concerning NPs' current leadership role emerged, and they were all linked to a successful positioning of NPs. All themes seemed to be of influence on NPs' scope of daily practice. Direct patient care was emphasised, and leadership on other levels appeared to be underused. Most NPs desired to reshape their profession. However, unprofitable use of their leadership skills especially on professional and organisational level and lack of supportive factors seemed to hinder them. An adequate use of leadership is crucial for role development and positioning of NPs. Further development of the NP profession can help to better differentiate between the tasks of registered specialised nurses and NPs. Leadership in nursing contributes to the improvement of the quality and efficiency of health care. Further positioning of the NP profession depends on a profitable use of leadership competencies. Besides, NPs should collaborate with healthcare organisations, educational institutions and professional associations to value the NP profession in the current healthcare system.


Results of prevention programs with adolescents.
Programs for preventing smoking and alcohol and drug abuse have radically changed in the past decade. Instead of being regarded as a health or discipline problem that involves only a few deviant adolescents, drug use has begun to be viewed as social behavior that is functional for adolescents, not capricious, and is normative for that population. The most successful prevention programs have sought to delay the onset of tobacco use. Based on theoretical and etiological research, these programs target factors that have repeatedly been predictive of adolescent smoking, alcohol and drug use. The programs teach adolescents (1) why people their age smoke tobacco or use alcohol and drugs; (2) how these meanings get established by peers, older role models and advertising; (3) how to resist these influences to smoke or to use alcohol and drugs; and (4) life skills and competencies to counterbalance the functions that drug use serves. Because of the association with the onset of smoking and the onset of using other drugs, these strategies are being studied for alcohol use and other drugs. In addition, elected peer leaders are trained to conduct these activities with their classmates and act as new role models for non-use. Evaluations of these approaches are optimistic. Studies in northern California and Minnesota reveal 50-70% reductions in the onset of smoking. Botvin's 'Life Skills Training' program demonstrates success in delaying heavy alcohol and marijuana use.


The effect of the presence of quiescent female nymphs, males and their spermatophores on spermatophore placement in two species of eriophyoid mites.
Under sex dissociated sperm transfer, females seek spermatophores and pick up sperm without male assistance. In several species males adjust spermatophore deposition rate to the presence of conspecifics. It is not known, however, which factors could favor such elasticity in non-pairing males. In this paper, we compare male response towards conspecifics between the sex dissociated eriophyoid mites Aculus fockeui (Nalepa and Trouessart) and Aculops allotrichus (Nalepa). The species differ significantly in male reproductive strategies and, consequently, the intensity of male-male-competition. Aculus fockeui males deposit spematophores all over the leaves and occasionally leave single spermatophores beside quiescent female nymphs (QFNs). In contrast, A. allotrichus males guard QFNs and encircle them with spermatophores. In this study, males of both species deposited spermatophores close to and apart from the rival spermatophores. Aculops allotrichus males had similar spermatophore output whether they were kept alone or in a group of seven males. They did not change spermatophore output in the presence of five rival spermatophores, a QFN or a QFN and varying number of rivals, either. In contrast, A. fockeui males increased spermatophore output in the presence of rival spermatophores or when on the arena with a QFN the male number increased to eight males. They did not respond, however, to the presence of a QFN and one rival or a QFN alone. The possible effect of the species-specific intensity of male-male competition, population density, the availability of receptive females and the rate of spermatophore output on the flexibility of eriophyoid spermatophore deposition is discussed.


Disturbance and mosquito diversity in the lowland tropical rainforest of central Panama.
The Intermediate Disturbance Hypothesis (IDH) is well-known in ecology providing an explanation for the role of disturbance in the coexistence of climax and colonist species. Here, we used the IDH as a framework to describe the role of forest disturbance in shaping the mosquito community structure, and to identify the ecological processes that increase the emergence of vector-borne disease. Mosquitoes were collected in central Panama at immature stages along linear transects in colonising, mixed and climax forest habitats, representing different levels of disturbance. Species were identified taxonomically and classified into functional categories (i.e., colonist, climax, disturbance-generalist, and rare). Using the Huisman-Olff-Fresco multi-model selection approach, IDH testing was done. We did not detect a unimodal relationship between species diversity and forest disturbance expected under the IDH; instead diversity peaked in old-growth forests. Habitat complexity and constraints are two mechanisms proposed to explain this alternative postulate. Moreover, colonist mosquito species were more likely to be involved in or capable of pathogen transmission than climax species. Vector species occurrence decreased notably in undisturbed forest settings. Old-growth forest conservation in tropical rainforests is therefore a highly-recommended solution for preventing new outbreaks of arboviral and parasitic diseases in anthropic environments.


Perinatal and early childhood factors for overweight and obesity in young Canadian children.
This study assessed potential early-life factors and their interrelationships with obesity among young Canadian children. Data from a nationally representative sample of children aged 6 to 11 years in the Canadian Health Measures Survey were analyzed. The associations of perinatal and early childhood behaviours and socio-economic factors with overweight or obesity were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression models. Adjusted population attributable risk fractions (PARFs) were calculated using multivariate logistic regression models. Of 968 term-born children, 21% were overweight and another 13% were obese. Maternal smoking during pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio, 2.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.23-4.15) was positively associated with obesity. This association was mediated by birth weight (suppression effect); once controlled, the strength of the association between smoking and child obesity increased by 12%. Birth weight per 100 g (1.05; 1.005-1.09) was significantly associated with obesity. Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months (0.44; 0.31-0.61), adequate sleep hours (0.39; 0.16-0.94) and being physically active (0.50; 0.26-0.93) were found to be protective. Breastfeeding, whether exclusive or not, significantly reduced obesity risk among children whose mothers never smoked in pregnancy. PARFs indicated that 24.4%, 11.5%, 11.3% and 6.0% prevalent cases of child obesity might be prevented by exclusive breastfeeding, smoking cessation during pregnancy, adequate sleep during childhood, and avoiding high birth weight, respectively. This study identified multiple perinatal and childhood factors associated with obesity in young Canadian children. Effective prevention strategies targeting four modifiable maternal and child risk factors may reduce childhood obesity by up to 54% in Canada.


Aggregation of TiO2-graphene nanocomposites in aqueous environment: Influence of environmental factors and UV irradiation.
The aggregation kinetics of TiO2-graphene nanocomposites in aqueous solution affected by solution pH, salt types (NaCl, CaCl2) and concentrations of electrolytes, and stability induced by UV irradiation was investigated in this study. The zeta potentials and hydrodynamic diameter of the nanoparticles were used as bases to assess the aggregation behavior, and stability of nanocomposites exposed to UV irradiation was expressed in terms of supernatant concentration. The aggregation of TiO2-graphene nanoparticles in aqueous media followed the colloidal theory. TiO2-graphene nanoparticles were significantly aggregated in the presence of a diavalent cation compared with monovalent cation because the former was more capable of effective charge screening and neutralization. The calculated Hamaker constant of the TiO2-graphene nanocomposites in aqueous solution prepared in the lab was 2.31×10(-20)J. The stability of this composite nanoparticles was between those of pure TiO2 and graphene. A known intensity of UV irradiation was beneficial in the formation of TiO2-graphene nanoparticle aggregates. However, prolonged UV irradiation may stabilize the nanoparticles. These results provided critical information about the colloidal properties of the new TiO2-graphene nanocomposites and were useful in predicting the fate and transport of TiO2-graphene nanocomposites in natural water environments.


RANK rs1805034 T>C Polymorphism Is Associated with Susceptibility to Gastric Cardia Adenocarcinoma in a Chinese Population.
Gastric cardia adenocarcinoma (GCA) is a common malignant tumor of the digestive tract with a high incidence in China. Genetic factors such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) may contribute to the carcinogenesis of GCA. We conducted a hospital-based case-control study to evaluate the genetic association of functional SNPs with susceptibility to GCA development. A total of 330 GCA cases and 608 controls were recruited for this study. The SNPs OPG rs3102735 T>C and rs2073618 G>C, RANK rs1805034 T>C, and RANKL rs9533156 T>C and rs2277438 A>G were determined using the ligation detection reaction method. Our findings suggest that RANK rs1805034 T>C is associated with susceptibility to GCA, which is more evident among male patients, elderly patients (≥ 60 years), smokers, and patients who do not consume alcohol. Based on our findings, the functional SNP RANK rs1805034 T>C may be an indicator for individual susceptibility to GCA. However, further larger studies with other ethnic populations and tissue-specific biological characterization are required to confirm the current findings.


Rotator Cable Reconstruction: A Technique to Restore the Rotator Cable in the Setting of Large Cuff Tears.
The rotator cable is an essential biomechanical structure in the shoulder that is commonly injured in the setting of large rotator cuff tears. Surgical techniques designed to reconstruct the cable have followed advancements in our understanding of the biomechanics and anatomic importance of this structure. Owing to its role in load sharing and stress shielding of the rotator cuff crescent, rotator cable reconstruction offers the potential to reduce retear rates and promote longevity of rotator cuff repairs. The purpose of this article is to describe a technique to augment rotator cuff repair with cable reconstruction.


Neolithic trade routes re-aligned by oxygen isotope analyses.
Oxygen isotope analyses of Spondylus shells from neolithic sites suggest that the source for the shells used as ornaments in the Balkans and central Europe during the fourth millennium BC was the Aegean and not the Black Sea. The trade in Spondylus may have taken the form of an exchange of gifts.


Diagnosis of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry of 7-dehydrocholesterol in plasma, amniotic fluid and cultured skin fibroblasts.
A method is described for quantification of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7DHC) and other neutral sterols by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry for diagnosis of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, an apparent primary defect of cholesterol biosynthesis associated with low plasma levels of cholesterol and high levels of its precursor, 7DHC. Results are summarized for specimens from normal controls and from 40 patients with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS). Whereas the concentration of 7DHC (as a combined peak of 7DHC and iso-7DHC) in normal infant plasma was found to be 0.10 +/- 0.05 (S.D.) microgram/ml, the level in patients with SLOS ranged from 2.7 to 470 micrograms/ml, or from 10 to more than 2000 times the upper limit of normal. Patients with milder type I SLOS as well as those with the more severe type II SLOS were found to have the same sterol abnormality. Although most infants with SLOS had plasma cholesterol levels lower than 400 micrograms/ml (40 mg/dl), several older children with only mildly increased levels of 7DHC had normal plasma cholesterol levels. Diagnostically useful, comparably increased levels of 7DHC were found in amniotic fluid and cultured skin fibroblasts from patients with SLOS. More mildly increased levels of 7DHC were also found in both plasma and cultured skin fibroblasts of SLOS heterozygotes. The method described uses capillary columns and GC/MS instrumentation available in most biochemical genetics laboratories and should prove useful not only for diagnosis and prenatal diagnosis of Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, but also for identification of other possible inborn errors of sterol biosynthesis.


Diagnosis value of hysteroscopy for chronic endometritis.
To investigate the correlation of hysteroscopy in the diagnosis of chronic endometritis (CE) with histology and assess its reliability. Two hundred eleven patients with CE diagnosed by hysteroscopy were selected as the case group, and 30 cases without endometritis diagnosed by hysteroscopy were selected as the control group. Hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy were carried out in all patients with endometrial hyperplasia. Among 211 patients with CE diagnosed by hysteroscopy, 200 cases were confirmed histologically. There was a significant correlation (p < 0.001) between characterization of CE by hysteroscopy and pathological grading. In 173 cases (86.5%), both histological and hysteroscopic grading were consistent (Kappa value = 0.62). Hysteroscopy is reliable in diagnosing CE and it can assess clinical effectiveness of antibiotic therapy.


Consumer beware: a systematic assessment of potential bias in the lay electronic media to examine the portrayal of "PARP" inhibitors for cancer treatment.
This study examined how the lay electronic media covers poly-ADP-ribose polymerase, or "PARP," inhibitors, a class of cancer agents currently under clinical investigation. Of 771 internet links, 51 targeted the lay public. Independent review by two investigators yielded the following categorizations: 36 (71%) were "overly positive", 15 (29%) "neutral", and none "overly negative". "Overly positive" articles used: (l) overstated benefit, (2) included quotations from enthusiastic scientists, and (3) discussed single or small patient subsets. They used such phrases as "the holy grail of cancer research", "the most exciting development in cancer research in a decade or more…. it could save thousands of lives", and "we were surprised and delighted…. it's the kind of thing you don't really think will happen". Healthcare providers should be aware of the foregoing when discussing PARP inhibitors-and perhaps other novel therapies-with cancer patients.


Primary closure of the cleft alveolus: a functional approach.
The growth and development of the premaxilla in both normal and cleft lip and palate subjects is described and its relevance in surgery of the cleft alveolus discussed. Embryologically, the cleft alveolus results from failure of fusion of the median nasal and maxillary processes. Consequently, ossification centres in the premaxilla and maxilla cannot migrate and unite such that normal growth and development in the territory of the premaxillary-maxillary suture cannot occur. Functional repair of the cleft lip and soft palate encourages spontaneous alignment of the alveolar segments, facilitating the introduction of vascularized periosteum across the bony defect by gingivoperiosteoplasty. Early reconstruction in the region of the premaxillary-maxillary suture encourages a more normal development of the alveolus, particularly in the bilateral cleft subject.


Prenatal diagnosis of systemic disorders of the respiratory chain in cultured amniocytes and chorionic villus fibroblasts by studying the formation of lactate and pyruvate from glucose.
Formation of lactate and pyruvate from glucose was studied in cultured amniocytes and chorionic villus fibroblasts from controls, either untreated or treated with azide, an inhibitor of cytochrome c oxidase, or other inhibitors of the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Amniocytes with an established cytochrome c oxidase deficiency were also investigated. Control amniocytes treated with azide as well as cytochrome c oxidase deficient amniocytes displayed strongly increased lactate-to-pyruvate ratios after incubation with glucose, compared to control cells. Elevated lactate-to-pyruvate ratios were also found in chorionic villus fibroblasts in which complexes I, III or IV were inhibited by rotenone, antimycin or azide, respectively. We conclude that measurement of lactate and pyruvate production from glucose in cultured amniocytes and/or chorionic villus fibroblasts allows adequate prenatal diagnosis of systemic cytochrome c oxidase deficiency and presumably of other systemic deficiencies of mitochondrial respiratory chain enzymes.


Are WHO approved nucleic acid amplification tests causing large-scale "false identification" of rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis?: Programmatic experience from south india.
The nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs): Line probe assay and GeneXpert (Xpert) have evolved as the primary tool for identification of rifampicin (RIF)-resistant (RR) tuberculosis (TB) worldwide, primarily because of the ease and speed. We rechecked RR isolates identified by NAATs from presumptive RR TB cases belonging to South India by the Revised National TB Control Program, India using multiple RIF concentrations on Bactec MGIT system and compared the mutation patterns with the resistance levels. Standard protocol for Bactec MGIT system as given by the manufacturer modified for the multiple RIF concentrations was used. All the retests were done in a certified BSL3 laboratory. We found that there is a mismatch of up to 20% (RIF breakpoint 0.5 mg/L); the NAATs probably overidentifying RR TB. Half of the cases with mismatch showed a sub-breakpoint rise in resistance level (0.125 mg/L to 0.5 mg/L RIF). The probable reasons for the mismatch are "sub-breakpoint low-level resistance mutants," hetero-resistant bacterial populations, and other inherent test limitations along with the low RR TB prevalence in South India (<5%) among "presumptive multidrug-resistants." This could be due to the incomplete selection pressure by an inadequate RIF exposure caused by various factors including a low-RIF dosage being used widely and poor Directly observed treatment. To prevent the false diagnosis of RR TB in a massive scale when using NAATs, we may need to enforce a carefully targeted testing approach and a phenotypic susceptibility testing with multiple RIF concentrations for confirmatory purposes.


A brief web-based screening plus emotional-disorder health education was associated with improvement of mental health awareness and service-seeking attitudes among patients seeking nonpsychiatric clinical services in China.
Low recognition and intervention rates of emotional disorders among nonpsychiatric clinical patients are primarily attributable to poor mental health awareness of patients and a paucity of mental health care resources. This study aims to investigate the association of a resource-saving brief web-based emotional-disorder self-screening plus a health self-education program (BWBED-SS + HSE) with improved mental health awareness and service-seeking attitudes among nonpsychiatric clinical patients. A sample of 2065 patients seeking health services in nonpsychiatric clinical settings underwent BWBED-SS + HSE using mobile terminals. Participants were defined as being at high risk of anxiety and/or depression according to the optimal cut-off point of ≥11 on the Huaxi emotional-distress index (HEI). The rate of participants at high risk of anxiety and/or depression was 6.63%. Following participation in the BWBED-SS + HSE, after controlling for demographics, type of hospital, and test time, the rates of participants considering themselves as having an emotional disorder and willing to seek mental health services among those at high risk of anxiety and/or depression increased from 29.93% to 47.45% (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.28, p = .002) and from 11.68% to 29.93% (aOR = 3.65, p < .001), respectively. The BWBED-SS + HSE were associated with improved mental health awareness and service-seeking attitudes among patients seeking nonpsychiatric clinical services in China.


Radiation Oncology Quality and Safety Considerations in Low-Resource Settings: A Medical Physics Perspective.
The past few years have seen a significant growth of interest in the global radiation therapy (RT) crisis. Various organizations have quantified the need and are providing aid in support of addressing the shortfalls existing in many low-to-middle income countries. With the tremendous demand for new facilities, equipment, and personnel, it is very important to recognize the quality and safety challenges and to address them directly. An examination of publications on quality and safety in RT indicates a consistency in a number of the recommendations; however, these authoritative reports were generally based on input from high-resourced contexts. Here, we review these recommendations with a special emphasis on issues that are significant in low-to-middle income countries. Although multidimensional, training, and staffing are top priorities, any support provided to lower-resourced settings must address the numerous facets associated with quality and safety indicators. Strong partnerships between high income and other countries will enhance the development of safe and resource-appropriate strategies for advancing the radiation treatment process. The real challenge is the engagement of a strong spirit of cooperation, collaboration, and communication among the multiple organizations in support of reducing the cancer divide and improving the provision of safe and effective RT.


Quantification of trace O-containing compounds in GTL process samples via Fischer-Tropsch reaction by comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.
Comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS) was successfully applied to eight real Brazilian Fischer-Tropsch (FT) product samples for the quantitative analysis of O-containing compounds. It not only allowed identifying and quantifying simultaneously a large number of O-containing compounds but also resolved many co-eluting components, such as carboxylic acids, which co-elute in one-dimensional gas chromatography. The homologous series of alcohols and carboxylic acids as trimethylsilyl derivatives were detected and identified at trace levels. The absolute quantification of each compound was accomplished with reliability using analytical curves. Linear alcohols (from C5 to C19), branched alcohols (C6-C13) and carboxylic acids (C4 to C12) were obtained in the range of 1.58 mg g(-1) to 14.75 mg g(-1), 0.51 mg g(-1) to 1.12 mg g(-1) and 0.21 mg g(-1) to 1.63 mg g(-1) of FT product samples, respectively. GC×GC-TOFMS provided a linear range (from 0.3 ng µL(-1) to 10 ng µL(-1)), good precision (<8%), and excellent accuracy (recovery range of 77% to 118%) for quantification of individual O-containing compounds in FT product samples. The results can benefit the development of gas-to-liquid technologies from natural gas and guide the choice of an FT conversion process that generates clean products with higher added value.


Distribution of artisanal fishing gears with impacts on sedimentation and benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages in Songkhla Lake, the largest lagoon in Thailand.
The present study investigated the distribution and diversity of stationary fishing gears in Songkhla Lake and assessed the effects of the most abundant gear in the lake, the standing trap, on sedimentation and the abundance of benthic macroinvertebrates. Our survey revealed that six types of fishing gear were used: standing traps, fyke nets, fish aggregating devices, seabass net cages, small traps and stationary lift nets. The type of fishing gear used depended on the depth of water. The density of installed standing traps reached a maximum of 357 traps/km2, which was the highest density of any fishing gear installed on the lake. They were mainly set in the middle part of the lake, where the water was less than 2 m deep. Sedimentation was examined inside and outside the areas influenced by standing traps. Sediment samples were collected with sediment traps in the northeast and southwest monsoon seasons. Sedimentation rates inside and outside the areas influenced by standing traps differed at some sites but the pattern was not consistent across seasons. Sedimentation rates were higher in the northeast monsoon season with the average rate 1132.32 ± 43.73 (mean ± SE) g m-2day-1 when precipitation and run-off were higher and 323.98 ± 10.68 g m-2day-1 in the southwest monsoon or dry season. Moreover, the proportion of finer clay particles was greater in the sediment from the areas influenced by traps. Benthic macroinvertebrate communities between the two areas were different. A bivalve, Potamocorbula sp., which dominated benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages, had a higher abundance in areas influenced by traps. The effects of stationary fishing gears on sedimentation and benthic macroinvertebrates highlighted in this study suggest that the long-term deployment of these gears may affect food chain dynamics in this lagoon system. Ultimately, a proper regulation of the use of these gears may be needed.


Microhabitat shifts of lizards under different contexts of sympatry: a case study with South American Liolaemus.
The Iguanid lizard Liolaemus tenuis is shown to be a rock and trunk dweller (apparently preferring perches between 0-30 cm height) in a central Chilean locality where it coexists with a single ground-dwelling congener. In its southern distributional ranges L. tenuis is sympatric with another tree-dweller, L. pictus. Habitat shift is demonstrated in this latter case by L. tenuis concentrating on tree trunks, and at modal heights 30-60 cm. Liolaemus pictus occupies lower (apparently more favorable) perches, actively interferring with its congener.


Evidence of phenotypic alteration as a cause of systolic dysfunction in the failing heart.
This article describes the phenotype of dilated cardiomyopathy in humans and describes parallel studies in experimental models that support or refute the relevance of these changes to the development of the heart failure phenotype.


Coherence Metrics for Reader-Independent Differentiation of Cystic From Solid Breast Masses in Ultrasound Images.
Traditional breast ultrasound imaging is a low-cost, real-time and portable method to assist with breast cancer screening and diagnosis, with particular benefits for patients with dense breast tissue. We previously demonstrated that incorporating coherence-based beamforming additionally improves the distinction of fluid-filled from solid breast masses, based on qualitative image interpretation by board-certified radiologists. However, variable sensitivity (range: 0.71-1.00 when detecting fluid-filled masses) was achieved by the individual radiologist readers. Therefore, we propose two objective coherence metrics, lag-one coherence (LOC) and coherence length (CL), to quantitatively determine the content of breast masses without requiring reader assessment. Data acquired from 31 breast masses were analyzed. Ideal separation (i.e., 1.00 sensitivity and specificity) was achieved between fluid-filled and solid breast masses based on the mean or median LOC value within each mass. When separated based on mean and median CL values, the sensitivity/specificity decreased to 1.00/0.95 and 0.92/0.89, respectively. The greatest sensitivity and specificity were achieved in dense, rather than non-dense, breast tissue. These results support the introduction of an objective, reader-independent method for automated diagnoses of cystic breast masses.


What would Karl Landsteiner do? The ABO blood group and stem cell transplantation.
ABO blood group antigens, of great importance in transplantation and transfusion, are present on virtually all cells, as well as in soluble form in plasma and body fluids. Naturally occurring plasma IgM and IgG antibodies against these antigens are ubiquitous. Nonetheless, the ABO blood group system is widely ignored by many transfusion services, except for purposes of red cell transfusion. We implemented a policy of transfusing only ABO identical platelets and red cells in patients undergoing stem cell transplantation or treatment for hematologic malignancies. Major bleeding episodes have occurred in about 5% of patients undergoing induction therapy for acute leukemia as compared with 15-20% in the literature. Overall survival times appear to be superior to that in historical cohorts. In 2002-2004, treatment-related mortality at 100 days in our Blood and Marrow Transplant Unit was 0.7% for autologous transplants (n=148), 13% for sibling allogeneic transplants (n=110), and 24% (n=62) for matched unrelated allogeneic transplants, suggesting that our approach is safe. We speculate that more rigorous efforts on the part of transfusion services to provide ABO identical blood components, and to remove incompatible supernatant plasma, when necessary, might yield reduced morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing stem cell transplantation.


Correction: Acute Effects of Sugars and Artificial Sweeteners on Small Intestinal Sugar Transport: A Study Using CaCo-2 Cells As an In Vitro Model of the Human Enterocyte.
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0167785.].


The effects of near-UV radiation on human lens beta-crystallins: protein structural changes and the production of O2- and H2O2.
beta-Crystallins (beta 1-, beta 2- and beta 3-crystallin) comprise nearly half the protein of the human lens. The effect of near-UV radiation, which is one of the possible risk factors in cataract formation, on the beta-crystallins is investigated in this study. Protein intersubunit crosslinking, change in charge of the protein subunits to more acidic species and changes in protein tertiary structure (conformation) by 300 nm irradiation are reported. The fluorescence yield of protein tryptophan residues decreases by 300 nm irradiation. There is an increase in nontryptophan fluorescence (lambda cx 340 nm, lambda cm 400-600 nm), and in protein absorption at 340 nm, due to the formation of tryptophan photooxidation products. Both tryptophan and its oxidation products can be photoexcited by 300 nm irradiation and the latter are known to be good photosensitizers. The results provide evidence for the generation of H2O2 in the irradiated human beta-crystallin solutions by the Type I photosensitizing action of the chromophores absorbing at 300 nm. The H2O2 is generated via the intermediate production of O2 anion; the latter spontaneously dismutates to H2O2, presumably via O2- protein interactions. The amount of H2O2 generated per absorbed photon is compared for various solutions of beta 1-, beta 2- and beta 3-crystallins from human lenses of different age.


Directly Predicting Water Quality Criteria from Physicochemical Properties of Transition Metals.
Transition metals are a group of elements widespread in aquatic environments that can be hazardous when concentrations exceeding threshold values. Due to insufficient data, criteria maximum concentrations (CMCs) of only seven transition metals for protecting aquatic life have been recommended by the USEPA. Hence, it is deemed necessary to develop empirical models for predicting the threshold values of water quality criteria (WQC) for other transition metals for which insufficient information on toxic potency is available. The present study established quantitative relationships between recommended CMCs and physicochemical parameters of seven transition metals, then used the developed relationships to predict CMCs for other transition metals. Seven of 26 physicochemical parameters examined were significantly correlated with the recommended CMCs. Based on this, five of the seven parameters were selected to construct a linear free energy model for predicting CMCs. The most relevant parameters were identified through principle component analysis, and the one with the best correlation with the recommended CMCs was a combination of covalent radius, ionic radius and electron density. Predicted values were largely consistent with their toxic potency values. The present study provides an alternative approach to develop screening threshold level for metals which have insufficient information to use traditional methods.


Perceived mental stress and reactions in heart rate variability--a pilot study among employees of an electronics company.
In this study perceived mental stress during occupational work was compared to heart rate variability (HRV) using a traditional questionnaire and a novel wristop heart rate monitor with related software. The aim was to find HRV parameters useful for mental stress detection. We found the highest correlation between perceived mental stress with the differences between the values of triangular interpolation of rhythm-to-rhythm (RR) interval histogram (TINN) and the root mean square of differences of successive RR intervals (RMSSD) obtained in the morning and during the workday (r=-.73 and r=-.60, respectively). The analysis shows that as the RMSSD and TINN value differences increase from night to morning, the stress decreases.


Thymus vulgaris Attenuates Myleran-induced Reproductive Damage by Decreasing Oxidative Stress and Lipid Peroxidation in Male Rats.
Thymus vulgaris is an herbal with potent antioxidant and it has been shown to have beneficial effects during short-term administration. Myleran (MYL) is used for treatment of certain types of tumors. MYL produces free radicals and induces disturbance in sperm parameters. This study is designed to assess the effects of T. vulgaris against damage to the male rats' reproductive features induced by MYL. Sixty-four male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into eight groups: control group; MYL (10 mg/kg) group; T. vulgaris groups (4.5, 9, and 18 mg/kg); and MYL (10 mg/kg) + T. vulgaris groups (4.5, 9, and 18 mg/kg; separately). Treatments were administered daily intraperitoneal injection for 60 days. Total antioxidant capacity, sperm factors, malondialdehyde (MDA), testosterone, and germinal layer height were analyzed. Whole variables of MYL group decreased signifcantly compared to the control group (P < 0.05) except MDA level (which increased). The T. vulgaris and T. vulgaris + MYL treatments in all doses increased all parameters significantly except MDA level (which decreased) compared to the MYL group (P < 0.05). No significant modifications were observed in all T. vulgaris groups compared to the control group (P > 0.05). T. vulgaris reduces the poisonous properties of MYL on male reproductive factors.


Contributions of Muscle Elasticity and Lateral Slide of the Transversus Abdominis to Lumbar Stability.
Lumbar instability can cause lumbar spondylolisthesis and chronic low-back pain in sports situation. Abdominal hollowing is commonly used in clinical practice to preferentially target the transversus abdominis (TrA) to stabilize the lumbar vertebrae; however, the contribution of muscle elasticity and lateral slide of the TrA to lumbar stability has not yet been clarified. To clarify the contribution of elasticity and lateral slide of the TrA to lumbar stability and to identify an effective exercise to stabilize the lumbar vertebrae. Experimental study. Laboratory. A total of 29 healthy males participated in this study. The participants performed hollowing during measurement of muscle elasticity of TrA and both knees extension from crook lying position for pelvic stability measurement. Lumbar stability, muscle elasticity change ratio, and lateral slide amount of TrA. There was a significant correlation between elasticity of the TrA and lumbar stability; however, no relationship was observed between lateral slide and lumbar stability or elasticity of the TrA. Elasticity of the TrA and lumbar stability was significantly correlated; therefore, improving the tonicity of the TrA may stabilize the lumbar vertebrae in healthy individuals. Moreover, hollowing with maximum effort may be effective as training aimed to stabilize the lumbar vertebrae for physical dysfunction due to lumbar instability.


Common polygenic variation in coeliac disease and confirmation of ZNF335 and NIFA as disease susceptibility loci.
Coeliac disease (CD) is a chronic immune-mediated disease triggered by the ingestion of gluten. It has an estimated prevalence of approximately 1% in European populations. Specific HLA-DQA1 and HLA-DQB1 alleles are established coeliac susceptibility genes and are required for the presentation of gliadin to the immune system resulting in damage to the intestinal mucosa. In the largest association analysis of CD to date, 39 non-HLA risk loci were identified, 13 of which were new, in a sample of 12,014 individuals with CD and 12 228 controls using the Immunochip genotyping platform. Including the HLA, this brings the total number of known CD loci to 40. We have replicated this study in an independent Irish CD case-control population of 425 CD and 453 controls using the Immunochip platform. Using a binomial sign test, we show that the direction of the effects of previously described risk alleles were highly correlated with those reported in the Irish population, (P=2.2 × 10(-16)). Using the Polygene Risk Score (PRS) approach, we estimated that up to 35% of the genetic variance could be explained by loci present on the Immunochip (P=9 × 10(-75)). When this is limited to non-HLA loci, we explain a maximum of 4.5% of the genetic variance (P=3.6 × 10(-18)). Finally, we performed a meta-analysis of our data with the previous reports, identifying two further loci harbouring the ZNF335 and NIFA genes which now exceed genome-wide significance, taking the total number of CD susceptibility loci to 42.


Comparison of Ultrasound and CT Imaging for the Diagnosis of Coronavirus Disease and Influenza A Pneumonia.
The outbreak of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) coincided with the season of influenza A pneumonia, a common respiratory infectious disease. Therefore, this study compared ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) for the diagnosis of the two diseases. Patients with COVID-19 or influenza A infection hospitalized at our hospital were included. The patients were examined by ultrasonography every day. The CT examination results within 1 day before and after the day of the highest ultrasonography score were selected as the controls. The similarities and differences between the ultrasonography and CT results in the two groups were compared. There was no difference between the ultrasonography and CT scores (P = .307) for COVID-19, while there was a difference between ultrasonography and CT scores for influenza A pneumonia (P = .024). The ultrasonography score for COVID-19 was higher than that for influenza A pneumonia (P = .000), but there was no difference between the CT scores (P = .830). For both diseases, there was no difference in ultrasonography and CT scores between the left and right lungs; there were differences between the CT scores of the upper and middle lobes, as well as between the upper and lower lobes of the lungs; however, there was no difference between the lower and middle lobes of the lungs. Ultrasonography is equivalent to the gold standard CT for diagnosing and monitoring the progression of COVID-19. Because of its convenience, ultrasonography has important application value. Furthermore, the diagnostic value of ultrasonography for COVID-19 is higher than that for influenza A pneumonia.


Attentional modulation in the human visual cortex: the time-course of the BOLD response and its implications.
Throughout the visual areas of the brain, the sensory response to a stimulus is enhanced by attending to the stimulus. Neurophysiological studies in primates show that such enhancement is marked in posterior parietal cortex and some anterior occipital areas, but much more modest in the earliest processing stages, such as the primary visual cortex (V1). In contrast, human fMRI studies show large and robust attentional modulation in all visual areas, including V1. We investigate the possibility that, in the case of fMRI, the BOLD (blood oxygen level dependent) response may be increased not only by local attention-related increases in neural activity, but also by local blood-flow increases caused by remote control systems that anticipate an impending need for oxygen at the attended location. Such changes could be much more rapid than the rather slow response to oxygenation change that typifies the BOLD response. We have employed a paradigm that isolates the component of the BOLD response due to attentional modulation and the component due to the mere presence of a visual stimulus. The results show that the temporal profiles of the BOLD responses in human V1 to the onset of a stimulus and to the onset of attention are extremely similar. The time-course of the attention-related BOLD response is not consistent with the action of remote, anticipatory control mechanisms and suggests that the modulatory effect of attention seen in human V1 with fMRI probably reflects genuine changes in local neural activity that are considerably larger than in non-human primates.


The prospective self-controlled study of unilateral transverse process-pedicle and bilateral puncture techniques in percutaneous kyphoplasty.
Many previous studies have reported excellent clinical results with percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP). In contrast, numerous complications and problems have also been reported, such as puncture difficulty, cement leakage, and adjacent vertebral fracture. This study is to evaluate the application and clinical outcomes of unilateral transverse process-pedicle and bilateral PKP in the treatment of osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF). A total of 56 cases with two levels thoracolumbar OVCF were randomly assigned for treatment with unilateral transverse process-pedicle and bilateral PKP. The patients were followed up postoperatively and were assessed mainly with regard to clinical and radiologic outcomes. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with mainly the use of a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. Radiologic outcomes were assessed mainly on the basis of radiation dose and bone cement distribution. The operation was completed successfully in 56 cases. In the unilateral level, the operation time, the volume of the injected cement, and radiation dose were significantly less than bilateral level. All patients had significantly improvement on VAS score after the procedures, compared with their preoperative period. In the bilateral level, 7 patients had obvious pain in the puncture sites at 1 month postoperatively caused by facet joint violation. With local block treatment, the pain disappeared in all patients at the last follow-up. Both bilateral and unilateral PKP are relatively safe and effective treatments for patients with painful OVCF. But unilateral PKP received less radiation dose and operation time, offered a higher degree of deformity correction, and resulted in less complication than bilateral.


Results of radiotherapy for primary subglottic squamous cell carcinoma.
To retrospectively evaluate the outcome after radical radiotherapy (RT) and surgical salvage and assess the risk of late toxicity for patients with primary subglottic squamous cell carcinoma treated at our center. Between 1971 and 1996, 43 patients with primary squamous cell carcinoma of the subglottis (35 men, 8 women) were treated with radical RT. All received megavoltage irradiation, most commonly to a dose of 50-52 Gy in 20 fractions during 4 weeks (39 patients). The median follow-up was 4.2 years. Local control was achieved with RT alone in 24 (56%) of the 43 patients: 7 of 11 with T1, 8 of 12 with T2, 4 of 8 with T3, and 5 of 12 with T4. The 5-year actuarial local relapse-free rate was 52%. Subsequent local control was achieved in 11 of the 13 patients with failed RT and attempted surgical salvage, for an ultimate local control rate of 81.4% (35 of 43). The 5-year overall and cause-specific actuarial survival rate was 50.3% and 66.9%, respectively. No patients developed Grade 3 or 4 late radiation morbidity. These data support the use of primary RT in the treatment of patients with primary squamous cell carcinoma of the subglottis as an appropriate treatment approach providing an option for laryngeal conservation.


Analysis of plasticizers and synthetic musks in cosmetic and personal care products by matrix solid-phase dispersion gas chromatography-mass spectrometry.
Matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were used for the rapid determination of 18 plasticizers (phthalates and adipates), 7 polycyclic musks and 5 nitromusks, which makes a total of 30 targets, in both rinse-off and leave-on cosmetic formulations. The MSPD method was miniaturized and customized to avoid or minimize risks of phthalate contamination and to reduce residues and costs. The amount of sample and extraction solvent employed were 0.1g and 1mL, respectively. The procedure was optimized by means of an experimental design and under the optima conditions it showed satisfactory linearity, repeatability and intermediate precision. LOQs were, in general, in the low ngg(-1), and recoveries were quantitative for all the 18 plasticizers and the 12 fragrances. Twenty-six cosmetic products such as creams, emulsions, lotions, gels for the skin, bath and shower preparations, deodorants, hair-setting, hair-cleansing and hair-conditioning products, shaving products, and sunbathing products, were analyzed. Twenty-five out of thirty targets were detected in the samples. The most frequently found compounds were galaxolide and tonalide reaching concentrations above 0.1% (1000μgg(-1)), and diethyl phthalate (between 0.7 and 357μgg(-1)). The presence of banned substances (Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009) such as dibutyl phthalate, diisobutyl phthalate, dimethoxyethyl phthalate, benzylbutyl phthalate, diethylhexyl phthalate, diisopentyl phthalate and dipentyl phthalate, musk ambrette and musk tibetene was confirmed in sixteen of the twenty-six personal care products (62%).


Attitudes and knowledge of primary care physicians regarding prostate cancer screening.
Recently, several prospective randomized prostate cancer screening studies have been reported. We report the results of a questionnaire administered to primary care physicians (PCPs) to determine their attitudes on prostate cancer screening and compared these results to those obtained when the same questionnaire was administered to a different large cohort of PCPs in 2006 prior to the reporting of these randomized studies. A 24-item questionnaire designed to assess prostate cancer knowledge and screening attitudes was administered to PCPs within central Florida and those PCPs attending a state conference. Completed surveys were returned and analyzed. All reported p values were two-sided, and those p values less than 0.05 were considered to be statistically significant. Seven hundred and eighty PCPs received the study questionnaire, and 168 (22 %) PCPs returned the completed questionnaire. Sixty-eight percent of responders stated that they recommend prostate cancer screening to >75 % of their patients over the age of 50 years, up from 47 % in 2006 (p < 0.001). Seventy-four percent of responders felt screening was effective. The overall mean score of the knowledge survey was 66 %, which was similar to the cohort from 2006. Knowledge scores were not associated with screening attitudes and behaviors. On multivariate analysis, practice setting and percentage of Medicaid patients in the practice were associated with attitude scores. Our current findings imply that despite the recent landmark studies published on prostate cancer screening, PCPs' screening attitudes have changed minimally over the past 5 years.


Intracellular Ca(2+) and K(+) concentration in Brassica oleracea leaf induces differential expression of transporter and stress-related genes.
One of the most important members of the genus Brassica, cabbage, requires a relatively high level of calcium for normal growth (Plant Cell Environ 7: 397-405, 1984; Plant Physiol 60: 854-856, 1977). Localized Ca(2+) deficiency in cabbage leaves causes tip-burn, bringing about serious economic losses (Euphytica 9:203-208, 1960; Ann Bot 43:363-372, 1979; Sci Hortic 14:131-138, 1981). Although it has been known that the occurrence of tip-burn is related to Ca(2+) deficiency, there is limited information on the underlying mechanisms of tip-burn or the relationship between Ca(2+) and tip-burn incidence. To obtain more information on the genetic control of tip-burn symptoms, we focused on the identification of genes differentially expressed in response to increasing intracellular Ca(2+) and K(+) concentrations in B. oleracea lines derived from tip-burn susceptible, tip-burn resistant cabbages (B. oleracea var. capitata), and kale (B. oleracea var. acephala). We compared the levels of major macronutrient cations, including Ca(2+) and K(+), in three leaf segments, the leaf apex (LA), middle of leaf (LM), and leaf base (LB), of tip-burn susceptible, tip-burn resistant cabbages, and kale. Ca(2+) and K(+) concentrations were highest in kale, followed by tip-burn resistant and then tip-burn susceptible cabbages. These cations generally accumulated to a greater extent in the LB than in the LA. Transcriptome analysis identified 58,096 loci as putative non-redundant genes in the three leaf segments of the three B. oleracea lines and showed significant changes in expression of 27,876 loci based on Ca(2+) and K(+) levels. Among these, 1844 loci were identified as tip-burn related phenotype-specific genes. Tip-burn resistant cabbage and kale-specific genes were largely related to stress and transport activity based on GO annotation. Tip-burn resistant cabbage and kale plants showed phenotypes clearly indicative of heat-shock, freezing, and drought stress tolerance compared to tip-burn susceptible cabbages, demonstrating a correlation between intracellular Ca(2+) and K(+) concentrations and tolerance of abiotic stress with differential gene expression. We selected 165 genes that were up- or down-regulated in response to increasing Ca(2+) and K(+) concentrations in the three leaf segments of the three plant lines. Gene ontology enrichment analysis indicated that these genes participated in regulatory metabolic processes or stress responses. Our results indicate that the genes involved in regulatory metabolic processes or stress responses were differentially expressed in response to increasing Ca(2+) and K(+) concentrations in the B. oleracea leaf. Our transcriptome data and the genes identified may serve as a starting point for understanding the mechanisms underlying essential macronutrient deficiencies in plants, as well as the features of tip-burn in cabbage and other Brassica species.


Characterization of benzene polycarboxylic acids and polar nitroaromatic compounds in atmospheric aerosols using UPLC-MS/MS.
The molecular characterization of water-soluble organic compounds (WSOC), a large fraction of the organic mass found in the atmospheric aerosols, is important to better understand emissions and atmospheric processes influencing the particulate pollution in most urban areas. This study deals with the development of a routine method using ultrahigh pressure liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS) for rapid analysis of primary and secondary organic compounds distributed among three classes: (i) benzene polycarboxylic acids; (ii) nitroaromatic acids and (iii) nitrophenols in ambient particles. Using an UPLC HSS T3 column with a mobile phase consisting of formic acid/acetonitrile under gradient elution, all target analytes were eluted within a total time of 12 min. Although some targeted analytes with different m/z were not resolved, a quantitation of these compounds was carried by distinct multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) transitions. Quality parameters of the method were established. The method was proven to be sensitive with limits of detection ranged from 0.02 to 0.89 ng/mL. Together with a simple sample preparation and the use of labeled internal standards, the method was confirmed to be robust and reliable to determine a large number of organic tracers in atmospheric particulate matter samples. The analytical procedure was also applied to assess the abundance and characteristics of target analytes in PM2.5 emitted from diesel and gasoline-powered engines, and Urban Dust and Diesel Particulate Matter Standard Reference Materials (SRM 1649b and SRM 1650b, respectively). The obtained results suggest that trimellitic, 4-hydroxyphthalic and 4-nitrophthalic acids may be used as potential tracers for diesel engine emissions. Clear differences in distribution of target species were observed between urban PM2.5 affected by the traffic and biomass burning emissions.


Plasmodium falciparum infection reshapes the human microRNA profiles of red blood cells and their extracellular vesicles.
Plasmodium falciparum, a human malaria parasite, develops in red blood cells (RBCs), which represent approximately 70% of all human blood cells. Additionally, RBC-derived extracellular vesicles (RBC-EVs) represent 7.3% of the total EV population. The roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the consequences of P. falciparum infection are unclear. Here, we analyzed the miRNA profiles of non-infected human RBCs (niRBCs), ring-infected RBCs (riRBCs), and trophozoite-infected RBCs (trRBCs), as well as those of EVs secreted from these cells. Hsa-miR-451a was the most abundant miRNA in all RBC and RBC-EV populations, but its expression level was not affected by P. falciparum infection. Overall, the miRNA profiles of RBCs and their EVs were altered significantly after infection. Most of the differentially expressed miRNAs were shared between RBCs and their EVs. A target prediction analysis of the miRNAs revealed the possible identity of the genes targeted by these miRNAs (CXCL10, OAS1, IL7, and CCL5) involved in immunomodulation.


Serologic response of Babesia equi-infected horses as measured by complement-fixation and indirect fluorescent antibody tests.
Both the complement-fixation test (CFT) and the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) were conducted on weekly serum samples from nine Arab geldings for 28 days before and 256 days after their exposure to Babesia equi of European origin. On an average the IFAT became positive 8 days before the CFT and showed higher relative serum titer increases. Both test procedures successfully detected infection and neither showed an appreciable drop in titer during this time frame, with the exception of the CFT, which showed a transient drop immediately following treatment with imidocarb. A test conducted 540 days after infection showed four of the eight surviving, and presumably infected, horses to be negative on CFT, where as all eight were still positive on IFAT. Comparisons made with the IFAT, on horse sera from B. equi infection of both European and North American origin, utilizing homologous and heterologous antigens, showed significantly higher titers with homologous antigens.


Use of strategic environmental assessment in the site selection process for a radioactive waste disposal facility in Slovenia.
The benefits of strategic environmental considerations in the process of siting a repository for low- and intermediate-level radioactive waste (LILW) are presented. The benefits have been explored by analyzing differences between the two site selection processes. One is a so-called official site selection process, which is implemented by the Agency for radwaste management (ARAO); the other is an optimization process suggested by experts working in the area of environmental impact assessment (EIA) and land-use (spatial) planning. The criteria on which the comparison of the results of the two site selection processes has been based are spatial organization, environmental impact, safety in terms of potential exposure of the population to radioactivity released from the repository, and feasibility of the repository from the technical, financial/economic and social point of view (the latter relates to consent by the local community for siting the repository). The site selection processes have been compared with the support of the decision expert system named DEX. The results of the comparison indicate that the sites selected by ARAO meet fewer suitability criteria than those identified by applying strategic environmental considerations in the framework of the optimization process. This result stands when taking into account spatial, environmental, safety and technical feasibility points of view. Acceptability of a site by a local community could not have been tested, since the formal site selection process has not yet been concluded; this remains as an uncertain and open point of the comparison.


Reliability of synthetic diffusion-weighted imaging with a high b-value for paediatric abdominal MRI.
To evaluate the reliability of synthetic diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) using a high b-value in comparison to conventional DWI for paediatric abdominal MRI. Paediatric patients (<19 years old) who underwent liver or pancreatobiliary MRI with DWI using 10 b-values (b = 0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, 1,500 s/mm2) from March to October 2021 were included in this retrospective study. Using the software, synthetic DWI using b = 1,500 s/mm2 was generated automatically by selecting the b-value required as output. Conventional and synthetic DWI values for b = 1,500 s/mm2 were measured at the liver, spleen, paraspinal muscle, and mass lesions, if present, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values were calculated using the mono-exponential model. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess the reliability of conventional and synthetic DWI and ADC values with b = 1,500 s/mm2. Thirty paediatric patients (M:F = 22:8, mean 10.8 ± 3.1 years old) were included and four had tumours on abdominal MRI. ICC values were 0.906-0.995 between conventional and synthetic DWI and ADC with b = 1,500 s/mm2 in the liver, spleen and muscle. For mass lesions, ICC values were 0.997-0.999 for both synthetic DWI and ADC images. Synthetic DWI and ADC values obtained using a high b-value showed excellent agreement with conventional DWI for the liver, spleen, muscle, and mass in paediatric MRI.


[Development of a new surgical technic for duodenectomy in the pig].
We describe a new surgical technique of duodenectomy whose main step is the enucleation of the duodenum. The advantage of this technique is that it prevents occurrence of bleeding and thus the use of too many ligatures. Consumption, growth and reproduction performances were normal in the duodenectomized animals.


Factors influencing the differentiation of embryonal carcinoma and embryo-derived stem cells.
The effects of aggregation, retinoic acid, and medium conditioned by Buffalo rat liver (BRL) cells, alone and in combination, on the differentiation of PSA4TG12 embryonal carcinoma and E14 embryonal stem cells are reported. The observations indicate that BRL-conditioned medium has more than one effect on the differentiation process, that retinoic acid has at least two effects which operate in different concentration ranges, and that both agents influence the choice of differentiation pathway as well as the extent of differentiation.


Familial dicentric translocation t(13;18)(p13;p11.2) ascertained by recurrent miscarriages.
A dicentric translocation is described involving chromosomes 13 and 18 in which the centromere of chromosome 13 was suppressed. The translocation was ascertained by repeated miscarriages and was found in three generations of phenotypically normal carriers.


Estimated increase in cross-border purchases by Washington residents following liquor privatization and implications for alcohol consumption trends.
To estimate changes in liquor sales occurring in Washington, USA and bordering states following the privatization of government controlled liquor stores. Trend analyses of data from January 2009 to October 2014 of a natural experiment beginning 1 June 2012, when liquor prices increased and the number of stores selling liquor increased in the state of Washington. Difference-in-differences (DID) models and interrupted time-series methods were used. Washington and bordering counties in Oregon and Idaho. Monthly liquor sales in 9-l cases. DID model estimates of adjusted change in liquor sales as a result of privatization produced a cross-model average increase of 10.1% in Oregon and 8.2% in Idaho (both P < 0.001). Similar results were found using interrupted time-series. This represents a total loss to Washington of 89 865 l of liquor, 0.226% of total Washington sales, for June 2012 to May 2013. Adding these sales to Washington totals for fiscal years 2013 and 2014, we find that per-capita spirits sales were 5.80 l in both 2012 and 2013, declining slightly to 5.76 l in 2014. The privatization of liquor sales in the state of Washington, USA in 2012 and the price increases associated with this resulted in a significant increase in sales in bordering counties in the states of Oregon and Idaho. However, the amount of alcohol sales and revenue lost by Washington was relatively small. Per-capita liquor sales in Washington appear to have remained flat after privatization.


Depth-dependent strain fields of articular cartilage under rolling load by the optimized digital image correlation technique.
It is significant to investigate the depth-dependent mechanical behaviors of articular cartilage under rolling load since considerable rolling occurs for cartilage joint in activities of daily living. In this study, the rolling experiments of articular cartilage were conducted by applying an optimized digital image correlation (DIC) technique for the first time and the depth-dependent normal strain and shear strain of cartilage were analyzed. It is found that the normal strain and shear strain values of different layers increase firstly and then decrease with rolling time, and they increase with increasing compressive strains. The normal strain and shear strain values decrease along cartilage depth with constant compressive strain. The normal strain values of different normalized depth decrease with increasing rolling rates. The shear strain values of superficial layer and middle layer decrease; however there are no major changes for the shear strain values of deep layer with increasing rolling rates. The normal strain values with different rolling time increase with increasing rolling numbers and the 30.6% increase in initial normal strain is observed from 1st to 99th cycle. The fitting relationship of the normal strain and normalized depth was obtained considering the effects of compressive strain and rolling rate and the fitting curves agree with the experimental results for cartilage very well.


An outbreak of extended-spectrum, beta-lactamase-producing Salmonella senftenberg in a burns ward.
A strain of Salmonella senftenberg resistant to ceftazidime, gentamicin, chloramphenicol and ciprofloxacin was isolated from burn wounds of eight patients on a burns ward of a hospital in Delhi, India. The organism, which had probably been spread from patient to patient on staff hands, produced the extended-spectrum beta-lactamase SHV-5 and the aminoglycoside-modifying enzymes AAC(3)II + AAC(6'). The strain was not isolated from stool cultures of any of the patients or staff, apart from the index patient who had a history of diarrhoea and fever before admission. The outbreak ended in three weeks, after the implementation of strict handwashing. This is the first report of SHV-5 beta-lactamase in Salmonella spp. and also the first report of SHV-5 in India. The extended-spectrum beta-lactamases that have been reported in Salmonella spp. now include the Group 2 be enzymes SHV-2, SHV-5, TEM-3, TEM-25, TEM-27, CTX-M2, PER-1 and PER-2, and the Group 1 enzymes DHA-1 and CMY-2. The types of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases produced by salmonellas, their association with aminoglycoside resistance and their geographical distribution are now similar to those seen in klebsiella. Increasing antibiotic resistance in these organisms is reducing therapeutic options for the treatment of invasive disease.


Functional relation between infarct thickness and regional systolic function in the acutely and subacutely infarcted canine left ventricle.
Specific information regarding the relation between infarct thickness and regional systolic function is important to the overall understanding of both the pathophysiology of acute and subacute myocardial infarction and the functional benefits of myocardial salvage interventions designed to limit the transmural extent of infarction and thereby preserve left ventricular function. In the present study, quantitative computer-assisted two-dimensional echocardiography was used to define the relation between infarct thickness and systolic function in the acutely and subacutely infarcted canine left ventricle. Echocardiograms were obtained at the mid-papillary muscle level at baseline and 6 h after occlusion (acute infarction) in eight animals and at baseline and 72 h after occlusion (subacute infarction) in nine animals. Systolic function was assessed by measuring the extent of fractional radial shortening along each of 36 evenly spaced endocardial targets from end-diastole to end-systole; the transmural extent of infarction was determined from the triphenyltetrazolium chloride-staining deficit at 6 and 72 h. The relation between systolic function and transmural extent of infarction was analyzed in two ways. First, the extent of fractional radial shortening in each group was examined as a function of quartile (25%) increments in transmural infarct thickness. This analysis revealed 1) a significant overall loss of fractional radial shortening with increasing transmural extent of infarction in both groups; and 2) significant differences in the extent of systolic dysfunction between successive quartile increments of infarction. Second, the relation between infarct thickness and systolic dysfunction was modeled mathematically by fitting the data from each infarct series to linear, logarithmic and exponential functions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)


Development of a core outcome set for effectiveness studies of breech birth at term (Breech-COS)-an international multi-stakeholder Delphi study: study protocol.
Women pregnant with a breech-presenting foetus at term are at increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. The most common intervention used to improve neonatal outcomes is planned delivery by caesarean section. But this is not always possible, and some women prefer to plan a vaginal birth. A number of providers have proposed alternative interventions, such as delivery protocols or specialist teams, but heterogeneity in reported outcomes and their measurements prevents meaningful comparisons. The aim of this paper is to present a protocol for a study to develop a Breech Core Outcome Set (Breech-COS) for studies evaluating the effectiveness of interventions to improve outcomes associated with term breech birth. The development of a Breech-COS includes three phases. First, a systematic literature review will be conducted to identify outcomes previously used in effectiveness studies of breech birth at term. A focus group discussion will be conducted with the study's pre-established Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) group, to enable service user perspectives on the results of the literature review to influence the design of the Delphi survey instrument. Second, an international Delphi survey will be conducted to prioritise outcomes for inclusion in the Breech-COS from the point of view of key stakeholders, including perinatal care providers and families who have experienced a term breech pregnancy. Finally, a consensus meeting will be held with stakeholders to ratify the Breech-COS and disseminate findings for application in future effectiveness studies. The expectation is that the Breech-COS will always be collected in all clinical trials, audits of practice and other forms of observation research that concern breech birth at term, along with other outcomes of interest. This will facilitate comparing, contrasting and combining studies with the ultimate goal of improved maternal and neonatal outcomes. Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) #1749.


Prescriptive Authority and Nursing: a comparative analysis of Brazil and Canada.
To analyse the differences between medication prescriptions by nurses in Brazil and Ontario, Canada. A comparative study between two different scenarios; this comparison was not performed between the two countries because Canada does not standardize this practice, which is legally established and is considered as an advanced professional knowledge area in Brazil. Prescription is a professional position to be occupied by nurses. However, there is tension surrounding this practice because it is perceived as a threat to privileges or traditions of other health professionals. Prescibing medication by nurses in Brazil and Ontario follows current legislation and training proccess in each context. There are some challenges to be overcome in ensuring the visibility and consolidation of the practice by nurses in these realities: guarantee of professional competence, credibility, acceptability, and the respectability of clientele in your professional scope by other health professionals.


The sialyltransferase ST3Gal3 facilitates the receptivity of the uterine endometrium in vitro and in vivo.
The receptive uterine endometrium specifically expresses certain glycosyltransferases, and the corresponding oligosaccharides play important roles in accepting the embryo. The sialyltransferase β-galactoside-α2,3-sialyltransferase III (ST3Gal3) is the key enzyme responsible for sialyl Lewis X (sLeX) oligosaccharide biosynthesis, but the expression and function of ST3Gal3 in the receptive endometrium is still elusive. Here, we found that human endometrial tissues at secretory phase expressed a 4-fold higher ST3Gal3 level relative to the tissues at proliferative phase. Meanwhile, downregulation of ST3Gal3 or sLeX epitope blockage significantly impaired the receptive ability of human endometrial RL95-2 cells to trophoblastic cells in vitro and inhibited implantation in pregnant mice. This study suggests that ST3Gal3 facilitates endometrial receptivity through increasing sLeX oligosaccharide, which gives a better understanding of the glycobiology of implantation.


Value of Blood-Based microRNAs in the Diagnosis of Acute Myocardial Infarction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.
Background: Recent studies have shown that blood-based miRNAs are dysregulated in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and are therefore a potential tool for the diagnosis of AMI. Therefore, this study summarized and evaluated studies focused on microRNAs as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of AMI from the last ten years. Methods: MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central database, and EMBASE were searched between January 2010 and December 2019. Studies that assessed the diagnostic accuracy of circulating microRNAs in AMI were chosen. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess the test performance of miRNAs. Results: A total of 58 studies that included 8,206 participants assessed the diagnostic accuracy of circulating miRNAs in AMI. The main results of the meta-analyses are as follows: (1) Total miRNAs: the overall pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.82 (95% CI: 0.79-0.85) and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.84-0.90), respectively. The AUC value was 0.91 (95% CI: 0.88-0.93) in the overall summary receiver operator characteristic (SROC) curve. (2) The panel of two miRNAs: sensitivity: 0.88 (95% CI: 0.77-0.94), specificity: 0.84 (95% CI: 0.72-0.91), AUC: 0.92 (95% CI: 0.90-0.94). (3) The panel of three miRNAs: sensitivity: 0.91 (95% CI: 0.85-0.94), specificity: 0.87 (95% CI: 0.77-0.92), AUC: 0.92 (95% CI: 0.89-0.94). (4) Results by types of miRNAs: miRNA-1: sensitivity: 0.78 (95% CI: 0.71-0.84), specificity: 0.86 (95% CI: 0.77-0.91), AUC: 0.88 (95% CI: 0.85-0.90); miRNA-133a: sensitivity: 0.85 (95% CI: 0.69-0.94), specificity: 0.92 (95% CI: 0.61-0.99), AUC: 0.93 (95% CI: 0.91-0.95); miRNA-208b: sensitivity: 0.80 (95% CI: 0.69-0.88), specificity: 0.96 (95% CI: 0.77-0.99), AUC: 0.91 (95% CI: 0.88-0.93); miRNA-499: sensitivity: 0.85 (95% CI: 0.77-0.91), specificity: 0.95 (95% CI: 0.89-0.98), AUC: 0.96 (95% CI: 0.94-0.97). Conclusion: miRNAs may be used as potential biomarkers for the detection of AMI. For single, stand-alone miRNAs, miRNA-499 may have better diagnostic accuracy compared to other miRNAs. We propose that a panel of multiple miRNAs with high sensitivity and specificity should be tested.


Undescribed protolimonoids from the root bark of Dictamnus dasycarpus Turcz.
Nine undescribed protolimonoids, including two apotirucallane and seven tirucallane triterpenoids, as well as five known compounds, were isolated from the root bark of Dictamnus dasycarpus Turcz. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Compounds 4-8, with an undescribed 22,25-epoxytirucallene part, were established their absolute configuration by single-crystal X-ray diffraction of 4. Such compounds might provide evidence for the degradation of protolimonoids to limonoids, bridging an oxidative cleavage biogenetic pathway between these structurally diverse triterpenoids. None of them showed anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, or monoamine oxidase B inhibitory activity.


[Psychiatric sequelae of diencephalic tumors in children. 3 case reports].
Three cases of behavioral disorders in children previously treated for a diencephalic tumor are reported. In such cases, classical psychiatric evaluation is difficult because reference data on childhood psycho-organic syndromes are lacking. Another complicating feature is that multiple factors contribute to the impairment of social interactions, including maladaptive reactions to disease-related stress, sensory deficits, and cognitive disorders. A structured evaluation should be performed in order to assess the child's behavior, the psychological and educational environment, and impairment of neuropsychological and neurophysiological function.


Interrater reliability of a phenotypic assessment tool for the ear morphology in microtia.
The Elements of Morphology Standard Terminology working group published standardized definitions for external ear morphology. The primary objective of our study was to use these descriptions to evaluate the interrater reliability for specific features associated with microtia. We invited six raters from three different subspecialities to rate 100 ear photographs on 32 features. We calculated overall and within specialty and professional experience intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and 95% confidence intervals. A total of 600 possible observations were recorded for each feature. The overall interrater reliability ranged from 0.04 (95% CI: 0.00-0.14) for the width of the antihelix inferior crus to 0.93 (95% CI: 0.91-0.95) for the presence of the inferior crux of the antihelix. The reliability for quantitative characteristics such as length or width of an ear structure was generally lower than the reliability for qualitative characteristics (e.g., presence or absence of an ear structure). Categories with very poor interrater reliability included anti-helix inferior crux width (0.04, 95% CI: 0.00-0.14), crux helix extension (0.17, 95% CI 0.00-0.37), and shape of the incisura (0.14, 95% CI: 0.01-0.27). There were no significant differences in reliability estimates by specialty or professional experience for most variables. Our study showed that it is feasible to systematically characterize many of structures of the ear that are affected in microtia. We incorporated these descriptions into a standardized phenotypic assessment tool (PAT-Microtia) that might be used in multicenter research studies to identify sub-phenotypes for future studies of microtia.


Adrenal-associated changes in experimental sporidesmin poisoning of sheep.
Sporidesmin-dosed hoggets which developed photosensitisation were shown to have enlarged adrenal glands and premature involution of the thymus. These sheep also developed high concentrations of plasma cortisol after the onset of photosensitisation. Sporidesmin-dosed sheep which did not show photosensitisation showed less or no adrenal associated changes.


Top value platform chemicals: bio-based production of organic acids.
Driven by the quest for sustainability, recent years have seen a tremendous progress in bio-based production routes from renewable raw materials to commercial goods. Particularly, the production of organic acids has crystallized as a competitive and fast-evolving field, related to the broad applicability of organic acids for direct use, as polymer building blocks, and as commodity chemicals. Here, we review recent advances in metabolic engineering and industrial market scenarios with focus on organic acids as top value products from biomass, accessible through fermentation and biotransformation.