Trans fatty acids in a range of UK processed foods.
A survey to determine the trans fatty acid content of a range of processed foods was carried out in response to recent reformulation work by the food industry to lower the artificial trans fatty acid content of processed products. Sixty two composite samples, made up of between 5 and 12 sub-samples, were collected in 2010 and were analysed for fatty acids, and a range of nutrients. The foods analysed included pizza, garlic bread, breakfast cereals, quiche, fat spreads, a range of fish and meat products, chips, savoury snacks, confectionery and ice cream. Levels of trans fatty acids were reduced considerably compared with previous UK analyses of similar foods where comparisons are possible. Concentrations of trans elaidic acid (t9-C18:1) from hydrogenated oils in all samples were <0.2g/100g food. These results confirm information provided by the food industry in 2007 on the levels of trans fats in key processed food sectors.


Is there a link between 'pain-proneness' and 'action-proneness'?
The present study was designed to examine the premorbid 'action-proneness' of chronic pain patients without obvious organic etiology. Using a validated psychometric instrument (the HAB questionnaire), 3 clinical groups were compared: 30 patients with chronic 'non-organic' pain, 30 patients with chronic organic pathology and 30 hospitalized psychiatric patients without pain as a primary complaint. The results indicate that the chronic pain patients describe themselves retrospectively as more 'action-prone' than the patients of the two control groups. Using an analysis of covariance to have statistical control on age, occupational level and depression, the results were statistically significant on the 0.05 level. Although this study suggests that a strong tendency towards direct action may be a frequent and relatively specific premorbid feature of chronic pain patients, the pathogenic implications of these findings remain uncertain.


The effects of dividing attention on the encoding and performance of novel naturalistic actions.
Novel naturalistic actions (NNAs) are multi-step, goal-directed actions involving the manipulation of objects that are unfamiliar to a person prior to instruction. Experiment 1 investigated the cognitive processes involved with encoding and performing NNAs by selectively interfering with attention during viewing or production of a NNA using the dual-task paradigm (n = 27, healthy adults). Consistent with the central findings from the dual-task memory literature, dividing attention at viewing caused a relatively greater disruptive effect on NNA performance than selectively interfering with attention during enactment. A follow-up experiment (n = 24, healthy adults) increased difficulty of memory retrieval by having participants verbally describe previously viewed NNAs while concurrently performing a secondary task, and it revealed no significant differences between the effects of dividing attention on the verbal description and physical construction of NNAs. The implications of our findings for the processes mediating encoding and enactment of naturalistic actions were presented. As well, the utility of a dynamic technique of inducing error types normally found in neurologically impaired populations was discussed.


An observational study of environmental exposures, airway cytology, and performance in racing thoroughbreds.
Mild equine asthma is presumed to arise in response to environmental exposures but the relative impact of differing inflammatory phenotypes upon performance are largely unexplored. Airway inflammation negatively affects performance and cytological phenotype varies with environmental exposure. Thoroughbred racehorses in active training and racing. Thoroughbreds were recruited 24-48 hours before racing. Each horse was eligible for re-enrollment with each race entry. Within one hour of race completion, physical examination, respiratory endoscopy, and BAL were performed. Respirable and inhalable dust, respirable endotoxin, and respirable β-glucan exposures were measured at the breathing zone within one week after racing. Controlling for age, trainer, and pulmonary hemorrhage, the relationship between performance, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cytology, and measures of exposure were modeled. Performance and BALF data were collected on 64 individual horses from 8 stables for a total of 98 race performances and 79 dust exposure assessments. Evidence of mild equine asthma was found in 80% (78/98) of BALF samples from 52/64 horses. For each percent increase in BALF mast cell and neutrophil proportions, speed figures were reduced by 2.9 (P = .012) and 1.4 (P = .046) points, respectively. Respirable dust concentration was associated with BALF neutrophil proportions (P = .015). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid mast cell proportions were only associated with respirable β-glucan exposures (P = .030). Mild equine asthma is common in racing horses and negatively impacts performance. The data support that respirable, rather than inhalable, dust exposure measures are pertinent to equine airway health.


Immune complex-induced platelet aggregation and 3H-serotonin release: microtechnique for an assay of virus and mycoplasma antigens or antibodies.
Human platelets are very sensitive indicators of immune complexes. The microplate test presented employs aggregation and/or release reaction of platelets as parameters of an antibody and antigen assay. The measurement of the release reaction is approximately 5 times more sensitive than the examination of aggregation patterns. Antibody titres of patients' sera attained values of 1/780,000 for adenoviruses and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. The determinations of 3H-serotonin release quantitative and therefore allow the equivalence point of a specific antibody/antigen interaction to be shown. This also provides the basis for reliable titre determinations in patients' sera with non-specific, direct platelet reactivity. If such an antiserum is titrated against the corresponding antigen, the release measurements reveal dose-response relations which are characteristic for an effect medicated by immune complexes.


Gastroesophageal reflux and ENT disorders in childhood.
Among controversies in pediatric otorhinolaryngology, the role of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) in inflammatory disorders of the upper airway remains of major concern. A laryngeal involvement by GER was demonstrated in adults and a correlation with GER has been found in pediatric populations with recurrent croup. However, although considered statistically significant, these results concern a few patients only and are inconclusive for a causal relationship. In addition, pH monitoring, often considered as the gold standard for the diagnosis of GER disease, has failed in giving normal values in ENT disorders. Eventually, upper pharyngeal and nasal involvements by GER and GER-related otitis media or otalgia have been suggested by some authors. In the 6th International Congress on Pediatric Otolaryngology, the Symposium on GER was designed to help physicians in improving their knowledge of the data from the literature and their understanding of the involved mechanisms. Bearing in mind the potential severity of GER disease, the audience also heard and debated the most up-to-date methods of assessing GER and treating it in patients with possibly related otorhinolaryngological symptoms. Here is the summary of this symposium.


Gelling functional property, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive bioactivities of β-D-glucan from the edible mushroom Pholiota nameko.
A β-D-glucan was obtained from the edible mushroom Pholiota nameko by hot aqueous extraction and purification. NMR and methylation analyses of the purified fraction (GHW-PN, 1.46% yield) indicated the presence of a (1 → 3)-linked β-D-glucan, highly substituted (~27%) at O-6 by single units of β-D-Glcp or by (1 → 6)-β-D-Glcp fragments. The β-glucan (at 0.5, 1, and 2%) showed shear thinning behavior and when the concentration of the solution increased, there was an increase in apparent viscosity. The β-D-glucan presented gel-like behavior and thermal stability under a simulated pasteurization process, suggesting its potential as a thickening and gelling agent in products submitted to temperature variations. The β-D-glucan at 0.3, 1.0 and 3.0 mg kg-1 significantly inhibited the inflammatory pain in 24.8, 56.9 and 82.3%, respectively, in the formalin-induced nociception in mice. The results pointed out that the β-D-glucan (GHW-PN) isolated from P. nameko presents potential application for the food industry or for medical purposes.


Microbial community structure and diversity in fish-flower (mint) symbiosis.
The fish-flower symbiosis model is an eco-friendly sustainable farming technology combining plants, fish and microorganisms in a recirculating aquaculture system. However, there are few studies on the structure and diversity of microbial communities in fish intestines, culture water and plant roots during fish-flower symbiosis. Here, we cultured carp (Cyprinus carpio), crucian carp (Carassius auratus) and grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) with mint (Mentha spicala L.) and extracted total genomic DNA from intestinal microorganisms, culture-water microorganisms and root microorganisms for each fish species for high-throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. Analysis of microbial community structure and diversity revealed changes in abundance of microbial genera in the intestines and culture water of each fish species, including changes in the dominant taxa. Pirellula, Truepera, Aquincola, Cetobacterium and Luteolibacter were widespread in the fish intestine, culture water and mint root system. This study revealed the effects of mint feeding on the structure and diversity of microbial communities of fish, water bodies and the mint root system during fish-flower symbiosis, providing a theoretical reference for the promotion and application of fish-flower (mint) symbiosis technology and healthy fish culture technology.


Film/contact loading method improves the encapsulated amount of triazene anticancer compounds in polymeric micelles.
The development of organic solvent-free methods for the encapsulation of hydrophobic molecules is necessary for advances in micelle-mediated drug delivery. In this study we investigated the film/contact approach in which the use of organic solvents is limited to the preparation of a dry film before encapsulation. Unloaded micelles of five structurally related block copolymers were placed in contact with thin homogeneous films of two hydrophobic triazene anticancer compounds (1-(4-amidophenyl)-3-(4-acetylphenyl)triazene (1) and corresponding triazenido complex with triphenylphosphanegold(I) fragment (2)). The micelle surface becomes saturated with the drug, which eventually penetrates as a front into the core. Because the drug interacts with both the shell and the core microenvironments of micelle during the process, the maximum loading capacities were very sensitive to block copolymer micelle composition, ranging from 2.2 to 20.4% (wt./wt. of polymer). We conclude that micelles with poly[2-(diisopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate] (PDPA) cores are the best option for the encapsulation of triazene compounds because i) they are prepared in absence of organic phase; ii) the drug concentration in the particles is high enough for a therapeutic effect and iii) the responsiveness properties of PDPA is appropriate for practical applications in pH-triggered drug release systems.


Double-uterine-incision in the management of placenta previa complicated by placenta accreta spectrum.
To compare the effectiveness of a new double-uterine-incision, based on Ar's incision, with single-uterine-incision during cesarean section in pregnancy concurrently complicated by placenta previa and placenta accreta spectrum. A retrospective cohort study including 260 participants was conducted between January 2014 and June 2019. The participants only underwent Ar's incision in the single-uterine-incision group and participants underwent two uterine incisions in the new double-uterine-incision group. The demographic and clinical characteristics were compared between the two groups. Fifty-six participants (21.5%) underwent a double-incision, and the other 204 underwent a single-incision. The incidence of previous cesarean delivery (91.1% vs. 68.6%) and anterior placenta (76.8% vs. 53.4%) was higher in the double-incision group. The blood loss (3400 ml vs. 1600 ml) and the need for blood transfusion (100.0% vs. 82.8%) were higher in the double-incision group. There was no significant difference between the two groups (one (1.8%) in the double-incision group and 10 (4.9%) in the single-incision group) in need for subtotal hysterectomy. After adjusting for confounding factors, there was no significant difference between the two groups concerning blood loss, blood transfusion, maternal ICU, or length of hospital stay; and the incidence of subtotal hysterectomy was lower in the double-incision group. This new double-uterine-incision, based on Ar's incision, is an effective and valuable procedure for pregnant women with placenta previa complicated by placenta accreta spectrum, especially in women with a serious condition. It is an option for pregnant women concurrently complicated by placenta previa and placenta accreta spectrum who desire future fertility.


Selective angiography through radiofrequency catheter during ablation of premature ventricular contractions originating from aortic cusp: A single-centre experience.
Intraprocedural coronary angiography is recommeded in patients undergoing ablation in aortic cusps to assess the relation of catheter tip and coronary ostia. In this report, we present our experience in selective coronary angiography through the radiofrequency catheter during premature ventricular contraction (PVC) ablation. We prospectively recruited 43 consecutive patients who underwent PVC ablation in the aortic cusps between March 2018 and April 2021. We performed coronary angiography through the contact force (CF)-sensing ablation catheter at the ablation site. Successful ablation was achieved in 38 (88%) of patients. No technical problems occurred after the contrast injection and ablation parameters were within the normal values, without any change of impedance and CF-sensing values and neither electrogram signal quality after contrast injection. No complications occurred during the procedure, hospital stay, and during one-year follow-up (15.3 ± 3.1 months). Selective coronary angiography through the CF-sensing ablation catheter to assess the relation between the ablation site and the coronary ostia is feasible and no minor or major complications occurred in our experience.


Regulation of vertebrate cellular Mg2+ homeostasis by TRPM7.
TRPM7 is a polypeptide with intrinsic ion channel and protein kinase domains whose targeted deletion causes cells to experience growth arrest within 24 hr and eventually die. Here, we show that while TRPM7's kinase domain is not essential for activation of its channel, a functional coupling exists such that structural alterations of the kinase domain alter the sensitivity of channel activation to Mg(2+). Investigation of the relationship between Mg(2+) and the cell biological role of TRPM7 revealed that TRPM7-deficient cells become Mg(2+) deficient, that both the viability and proliferation of TRPM7-deficient cells are rescued by supplementation of extracellular Mg(2+), and that the capacity of heterologously expressed TRPM7 mutants to complement TRPM7 deficiency correlates with their sensitivity to Mg(2+). Overall, our results indicate that TRPM7 has a central role in Mg(2+) homeostasis as a Mg(2+) uptake pathway regulated through a functional coupling between its channel and kinase domains.


Red-shifted electrochemiluminescence of CdTe nanocrystals via Co2+-Doping and its spectral sensing application in near-infrared region.
Novel optical labels for biosensing in near-infrared (NIR) region (especially between 800 and 900 nm) are arousing much attention for higher penetrating capability, less scattering and lowered autofluorescent background. Herein, a water-soluble electrochemiluminophore with effective electrochemiluminescence (ECL) around 815 nm is developed via doping dual-stabilizers-capped CdTe nanocrystals (NCs) with Co2+ species in a growth-doping way. The Co2+-doped CdTe NCs not only can preserve the highly-passivated surface states of dual-stabilizers-capped CdTe NCs, but also exhibit efficient red-shifted photoluminescence (PL) and ECL into the promising optical NIR window of 800-900 nm. A spectrum-based ultrasensitive NIR ECL immunosensor is consequently fabricated with the Co2+-doped CdTe NCs as tags for the first time, which can selectively and sensitively determine human carcinoembryonic antigen with a wide linearity range from 1 fg/mL to 10 pg/mL and a low limit of detection at 0.2 fg/mL (S/N = 3). This work opens a way to screen novel NIR electrochemiluminophore as well as to modulate the ECL performance of NCs via surface doping and engineering.


Urethral function in neurological disorders of the lower urinary tract.
Simultaneous measurements of intravesical pressure, urethral pressure, and electromyographic activity of perianal muscles were performed during bladder filling and voiding in 56 patients with neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction. In 21 patients simultaneous measurements were taken of the EMG activity of the striated-muscle external urethral sphincter. During bladder filling the urethral pressure was found to correspond to the EMG activity of both muscles only in those patients with normal urethral pressure. During voiding the EMG activity of neither muscle corresponded well with changes in urethral pressure. The EMG activity of perianal muscles corresponded to the activity of the external urethral sphincter during filling of the bladder but not during voiding.


2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5-Octa-fluorohexa-ne-1,6-diol.
In the crystal of the title compound, C6H6F8O4, O-H⋯O hydrogen bonds involving the hy-droxy groups connect the mol-ecules, forming a two-dimensional network parallel to (100). These hydrogen-bonding inter-actions appear to drive the O-C-C-O torsion angles into a gauche-trans-trans series of conformations along the backbone of the mol-ecule.


Current role of renal biopsy in patients with SLE.
All aspects of the role of renal biopsy in systemic lupus erythematosus may not be defined and accepted, but there is increasing agreement as to the information that can be obtained from biopsy. Awareness of the importance of clinical (non-biopsy) predictors has permitted a clearer understanding of the ability of renal biopsy to confirm and to add information to a determination of prognosis based on clinical data. New techniques for scoring the patterns of injury detectable on renal biopsy have provided important insights into prognosis, pathogenesis and treatment of lupus nephritis. Watchful waiting is often an unwise course for the management of lupus nephritis. Thus, renal biopsy is increasingly seen as an important tool in the timely determination of prognosis.


Stabilization of estradiol-receptor complexes by elimination of cytosolic factors.
Treating mature rat uterine cytosol with dextran coated charcoal (DCC) for 2 hrs at 0-4C in the absence of ligand causes the subsequently formed receptor-estradiol complex to be stable at 37C. Receptor binding is increased by the DCC treatment for uteri excised at metestrus or diestrus but remains nearly unchanged for uteri obtained at proestrus or estrus. Results suggest that the DCC removes or inactivates factor(s) present in the cytosol which render the receptor complex thermolabile.


Dihydroergotamine (DHE) - Then and Now: A Narrative Review.
To provide a narrative review of clinical development programs for non-oral, non-injectable formulations of dihydroergotamine (DHE) for the treatment of migraine. Dihydroergotamine was one of the first "synthetic drugs" developed in the 20th century for treating migraine. It is effective and recommended for acute migraine treatment. Since oral DHE is extensively metabolized, it must be given by a non-oral route. Intravenous DHE requires healthcare personnel to administer, subcutaneous/intramuscular injection is challenging to self-administer, and the approved nasal spray formulation exhibits low bioavailability and high variability that limits its efficacy. Currently there are several attempts underway to develop non-oral, non-injected formulations of DHE. A systematic search of MEDLINE/PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov databases, then narrative review of identified reports, focusing on those published in the last 10 years. Of 1881 references to DHE from a MEDLINE/PubMed search, 164 were from the last 10 years and were the focus of this review. Further cross reference was made to ClinicalTrials.gov for 19 clinical studies, of which some results have not yet been published, or are studies that are currently underway. Three nasal DHE products are in clinical development, reawakening interest in this route of delivery for migraine. Other routes of DHE administration have been, or are being, explored. There is renewed appreciation for DHE and the need for non-oral, non-injected delivery is now being addressed.


The role of c-Jun N-terminal kinase in the A beta-mediated impairment of LTP and regulation of synaptic transmission in the hippocampus.
The effects of the beta-amyloid peptide (Abeta) fragment 25-35 were investigated on hippocampal synaptic transmission and long-term potentiation (LTP) in vitro. Abeta([25-35]) was found to impair both post-tetanic potentiation (PTP) and LTP in the hippocampal CA1. The anthra[1,9-cd]pyrazol-6(2H)-one, SP600125, was used to inhibit c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) activity, which is believed to mediate cell death. Prior application of SP600125 attenuated the Abeta([25-35])-mediated impairment of PTP and LTP, when measured from the pre-drug baseline. In the presence of SP600125 alone, we observed an increase in baseline synaptic transmission and reduction in paired-pulse facilitation, consistent with an increase in synaptic transmission. There was no alteration in the level of PTP and LTP obtained, when measured from the pre-drug baseline. In the presence of both SP600125 and Abeta, however, PTP was greatly enhanced compared with controls. We therefore suggest that the activation of the JNK signalling pathway mediates the effects of Abeta on synaptic plasticity. Our data also indicate that endogenous JNK activity may regulate neurotransmitter release in the hippocampal CA1 in vitro.


The spectrum of congenital facial diplegia (Moebius syndrome).
The Moebius syndrome consists of congenital facial diplegia with associated anomalies. No single pathophysiologic hypothesis accounts for all aspects of the syndrome. We present six cases which manifest a very broad spectrum of associated neurologic anomalies. Postmortem examination was performed on two cases. Midline brainstem necrosis was evident in one while the other had subtle brainstem hypoplasia. The four other patients have demonstrated fixed deficits on follow-up examinations. Improvement in brainstem evoked potential waveforms has occurred in three cases, but the significance is uncertain. Many of the cases were delivered by caesarean section because of failure of labor to progress, and had associated polyhydramnios and arthrogryposis. These features suggest that a defect is established in utero. Only one infant, born prematurely, may have suffered some perinatal brainstem insult. Congenital facial diplegia is a heterogenetic entity which can affect the nervous system in many different ways.


Domestic violence risk during and after pregnancy: findings from a British longitudinal study.
The objectives of this study were to examine the rates of domestic violence reported during and after pregnancy and to assess the importance of family adversity. Prospective longitudinal cohort study. Bristol Avon, Southwest England. Seven thousand five hundred and ninety-one pregnant women with due dates between 1.4.91 and 31.12.92. Questionnaires administered at 18 weeks of gestation and 8 weeks, 8 months, 21 months and 33 months postpartum. The experience of emotional or physical cruelty by an intimate partner at each time point. Fewer women reported domestic violence victimization during pregnancy than they did postpartum (18 weeks of gestation: 1% physical cruelty, 4.8% emotional cruelty, 5.1% any victimization; 33 months postpartum: 2.9% physical, 10.8% emotional, 11% any victimization). Women who reported being victimized during pregnancy also reported significantly higher levels of social adversity during pregnancy. The number of social adversities reported during pregnancy also predicted postpartum victimization. Women who reported only one adversity during pregnancy were 2.73 (95% CI, 2.16-3.45) times more likely to report physical victimization at 33 months postpartum. Women who reported 5 adversities during pregnancy were 14.69 (95% CI, 7.35-29.37) times more likely to report such victimization at 33 months postpartum. For emotional cruelty, women who reported only one adversity during pregnancy were 2.10 (95% CI 1.80-2.46) times more likely to report emotional victimization at 33 months postpartum and 6.10 (95% CI 3.51-10.59) times more likely to report such victimization when five or more adversities were present during pregnancy. Levels of social adversity reported in pregnancy are important predictors of concurrent and future victimization. Screening for social adversity factors could help identify women at high risk for future domestic violence.


Gamma-aminobutyric acid facilitates the simultaneous production of biomass, astaxanthin and lipids in Haematococcus pluvialis under salinity and high-light stress conditions.
The effects of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) on the biomass and astaxanthin and lipids production in Haematococcus pluvialis under combined salinity stress and high-light stresses were investigated. The results showed that the highest biomass (1.65 g L-1), astaxanthin production (3.86 mg L-1 d-1) and lipids content (55.11%) in H. pluvialis LUGU were observed under the 0.25 mM GABA treatment. Moreover, compared with salinity and high-light stress, GABA treatment also increased the transcript levels of biosynthesis genes, the contents of endogenous GABA and carbohydrates but decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Further evidence revealed that intracellular GABA could regulate cell growth, astaxanthin production and lipids synthesis by mediating carotenogenesis, lipogenesis and ROS signalling. Collectively, this study provides a combined strategy for promoting the coproduction of astaxanthin and lipids and sheds light on the regulatory mechanism through which GABA affects cell growth, astaxanthin production and lipids biosynthesis in H. pluvialis under unfavourable conditions.


Low-Dose Colchicine for Secondary Prevention of Coronary Artery Disease: JACC Review Topic of the Week.
Among statin-treated patients, inflammation assessed by means of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) is a more powerful determinant of cardiovascular death and all-cause mortality than low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Several therapies that target residual inflammatory risk significantly reduce vascular event rates. For coronary artery disease patients already taking guideline-directed medical care, including statins, low-dose colchicine (0.5 mg/d orally) has been shown to safely lower major adverse cardiovascular events by 31% among those with stable atherosclerosis and by 23% after recent myocardial infarction. These magnitudes of benefit are larger than those seen in contemporary secondary prevention trials of adjunctive lipid-lowering agents. Low-dose colchicine is contraindicated in patients with significant renal or liver dysfunction and should be temporarily discontinued when taking concomitant agents such as clarithromycin, ketoconazole, and cyclosporine that share metabolism pathways. Lipid lowering and inflammation inhibition are not in conflict but are synergistic. In the future, combined use of aggressive LDL-C-lowering and inflammation-inhibiting therapies may become standard of care for most atherosclerosis patients. In June 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the use of low-dose colchicine to reduce the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, coronary revascularization, and cardiovascular death in adult patients with established atherosclerotic disease or with multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease.


A lower serum level of middle-molecular-weight adiponectin is a risk factor for endometrial cancer.
The present study was undertaken to examine the correlation between serum levels of adiponectin isoforms and the risk for endometrial cancer. This retrospective case-control study included 43 Japanese women with endometrial cancer and 62 Japanese women with no history of cancer. Serum levels of total adiponectin and the respective isoforms were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed on the serum levels of total adiponectin and its isoforms, high molecular weight, middle molecular weight, and low molecular weight adiponectins, after adjustment for confounders (age, body mass index, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus). The distribution of body mass index revealed a statistically significant difference between patients and controls (P = 0.001). A statistically significant difference (P < 0.01) was also found in the incidence of diabetes mellitus between the two groups, although there was no significant difference in the incidence of hypertension. In controls, an inverse correlation was observed between body mass index and serum adiponectin levels. However, in patients, an inverse correlation was found only between body mass index and serum middle molecular weight adiponectin level. After adjustment for confounding variables, the factor found to be most closely associated with endometrial cancer was a lower serum level of middle molecular weight adiponectin (adjusted odds ratio 4.89, 95 % confidence interval value 1.25-19.11, P = 0.022). Low serum level of middle molecular weight adiponectin was the only independent risk factor for endometrial cancer suggesting that the application of adiponectin might prevent or decrease the risk for endometrial cancer.


To be (in a transcriptional complex) or not to be (promoting UBR5 ubiquitylation): That is an answer to how degradation controls gene expression.
Tsai et al.1 in this issue and Mark et al.2 in Cell reveal how the E3 ligase UBR5 mediates broad regulation by selectively targeting agonist-bound nuclear hormone receptors, MYC, and other transcriptional regulators not incorporated into active gene expression complexes.


A comparison of nail-plate fixation and Ender's nailing in pertrochanteric fractures.
A randomized comparison was made of condylocephalic (Ender) nails and a nail-plate technique (McLaughlin) for fixation of trochanteric fractures, to evaluate the consumption of acute hospital bed-days, number of reoperations, peroperative blood loss, and operation time. Reoperations were performed in 30% of the Ender group and in 10% of the McLaughlin group and blood loss was doubled for the McLaughlin method. Our study has shown, that in our hands, patients operated on with Ender nails had more reoperations, but in spite of this the total cost, in the form of days in hospital or operation time was not increased.


New biologically dynamic hybrid pharmacophore triazinoindole-based-thiadiazole as potent α-glucosidase inhibitors: In vitro and in silico study.
Triazinoindole bearing thiadiazole derivatives (1-25) have been synthesized and characterized through different spectroscopic techniques such as 1H, 13C-NMR and HREI-MS. The purpose of the study was to investigate the anti-diabetic activity of the synthesized triazinoindole bearing thiadiazole derivatives by inhibition of α-glucosidase. All synthesized analogues showed outstanding inhibition of α-glucosidase enzyme with IC50 values ranging from 2.5 ± 0.10 to 38.10 ± 0.10 µM as compared to the standard drug acarbose (IC50 = 38.45 ± 0.80 µM). Analogue 4 (IC50 = 2.5 ± 0.10 µM) was identifies as the most potent analogue in the series with fifteen folds more active than standard acarbose. Structure activity relationship (SAR) studies suggested that α-glucosidase activities of triazinoindole bearing thiadiazole are primarily dependent upon on number and position of different substitutions present on phenyl parts. Molecular docking study were conducted of the optimized compounds (i.e., compound 4, 6, and 3 etc. using MOE default parameters), the results revealed that compound 4, 6, and 3 showed numerous key interactions with the target protein, which indicate the high potential of these compounds against the target compound. All these compounds were screened for cytotoxic activity against normal normal Vero cell line and found non-toxic.


Metataxonomic characterization of the microbial community involved in the production of biogas with microcrystalline cellulose in pilot and laboratory scale.
Biogas, produced in anaerobic digestion, is a sustainable alternative for generating energy from agro-industrial and municipal waste. Information from the microbiota active in the process expands the possibilities for technological innovation. In this study, taxonomic annotations, and functional prediction of the microbial community of the inoculum of two processes were carried out: an industrial unit (pilot-scale urban solid waste plant-IU) and a laboratory-scale reactor fed with swine and cattle waste (LS). The biochemical potential of biogas was obtained using tested inoculum with microcrystalline cellulose, obtaining 682 LN/kgVS (LSC-laboratory scale inoculum and microcrystalline cellulose), and 583 LN/kgVS (IUC-industrial unit inoculum and microcrystalline cellulose), which is equivalent to a recovery of 91.5% of total biogas to LSC. The phyla Synergistota and Firmicutes were more abundant in LS/LSC. In the IU/IUC (treatment of restaurant waste and customs seizures), there was a greater microbiological variety and a predominance of the Bacteroidota, Cloacimonadota, Firmicutes and Caldatribacteriota. The genus Methanosaeta predominated in the process, and it was possible to infer the genes (K01895, K00193 and K00625) related to acetoclastic pathway, as well as endoglucanases that are involved in the metabolism of cellulose (LSC). Terpenoids, polyketides, cofactors, and vitamin metabolism were higher in reactors that received different substrates (IU; IUC). The taxonomic and functional differences revealed the importance of determining the microbiota in the analysis of the potential of an inoculum, combined with the use of microcrystalline cellulose, which can provide optimization information in the production of clean energy.


Protein Partners of α-Synuclein in Health and Disease.
α-synuclein is normally situated in the nerve terminal but it accumulates and aggregates in axons and cell bodies in synucleinopathies such as Parkinson's disease. The conformational changes occurring during α-synucleins aggregation process affects its interactions with other proteins and its subcellular localization. This review focuses on interaction partners of α-synuclein within different compartments of the cell with a focus on those preferentially binding aggregated α-synuclein. The aggregation state of α-synuclein also affects its catabolism and we hypothesize impaired macroautophagy is involved neuronal excretion of α-synuclein species responsible for the prion-like spreading of α-synuclein pathology.


GHQ-28 and cGHQ-28: implications of two scoring methods for the GHQ in a primary care setting.
The General Health Questionnaire allows for distinguishing patients suffering from psychiatric problems from those in good mental health. There is some controversy as to the best scoring method. Two different methods have been proposed: GHQ and cGHQ. The present study aims at verifying whether there is confirmation of the hypothesis that the population resulting from the cGHQ calculation presents greater chronicity. A total of 40 general practitioners and 1145 of their patients in the Greater Montreal area, Québec, Canada participated in the original study. A sub-group of 313 patients were followed over a 3-month period. The patients were asked to complete a set of questionnaires, including the GHQ-28. The traditional method of calculating the GHQ score and the alternative cGHQ method were used. Two discordant groups of patients were identified: Group 1 (acute cases only), positive on the GHQ, but negative on the cGHQ (n = 124), and Group 2 (chronic cases only), negative on the GHQ and positive on the cGHQ (n = 64). Patients in Group 2 were older (p<0.001), were more worried about their health (p = 0.06) and their health problem had lasted for a longer time (p = 0.02). Patients in Group 2 were twice as likely to remain positive on the GHQ and/or the cGHQ as those in Group 1 in the 1- and 3-month follow-ups. The results suggest the presence of notable differences between the two groups, generally explainable by the hypothesis of greater chronicity in the cGHQ patients. The results confirm the impact of the choice of calculation method on the composition of the two groups. Finally, the authors suggest using the two calculation methods simultaneously.


Identification of Streptococcus suis Meningitis by Direct Triplex Real-Time PCR, Burkina Faso.
Meningitis confirmation in Burkina Faso uses PCR for detecting Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, or Hemophilus influenzae. We identified 38 cases of meningitis among 590 that were PCR-positive for 3 nonpneumococcal streptococcal pathogens, including 21 cases of Streptococcus suis. Among the country's 13 regions, 10 had S. suis-positive cases.


[Irrigation-lavage of the peritoneum. Use of a new type of drain].
A newly conceived voiding through drain is presented. It seems efficient in maintaining permeability of the drainage tube, without exclusion and thus allows for long standing irrigation and washout of the peritoneal cavity.


Responses to Airborne Ozone and Soilborne Metal Pollution in Afforestation Plants with Different Life Forms.
With the current increases in environmental stress, understanding species-specific responses to multiple stress agents is needed. This science is especially important for managing ecosystems that are already confronted with considerable pollution. In this study, responses to ozone (O3, ambient daily course values + 20 ppb) and mixed metal contamination in soils (MC, cadmium/copper/lead/zinc = 25/1100/2500/1600 mg kg-1), separately and in combination, were evaluated for three plant species (Picea abies, Acer pseudoplatanus, Tanacetum vulgare) with different life forms and ecological strategies. The two treatments elicited similar stress reactions, as shown by leaf functional traits, gas exchange, tannin, and nutrient markers, irrespective of the plant species and life form, whereas the reactions to the treatments differed in magnitude. Visible and microscopic injuries at the organ or cell level appeared along the penetration route of ozone and metal contamination. At the whole plant level, the MC treatment caused more severe injuries than the O3 treatment and few interactions were observed between the two stress factors. Picea trees, with a slow-return strategy, showed the highest stress tolerance in apparent relation to an enhancement of conservative traits and an exclusion of stress agents. The ruderal and more acquisitive Tanacetum forbs translocated large amounts of contaminants above ground, which may be of concern in a phytostabilisation context. The deciduous Acer trees-also with an acquisitive strategy-were most sensitive to both stress factors. Hence, species with slow-return strategies may be of particular interest for managing metal-polluted sites in the current context of multiple stressors and for safely confining soil contaminants below ground.


The Toll-like receptor ligand MALP-2 stimulates dendritic cell maturation and modulates proteasome composition and activity.
A 2-kDa synthetic derivative of the macrophage-activating lipopeptide (MALP-2) from Mycoplasma fermentans is a potent inducer of monocytes/macrophages and improves the immunogenicity of antigens co-administered by systemic and mucosal routes. Dendritic cells (DC) are the most potent antigen-presenting cells, which are able to prime naive T cells in vivo. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms of MALP-2 adjuvanticity, we analyzed its activity on bone marrow-derived murine DC. In vitro stimulation of immature murine DC with MALP-2 resulted in the induction of maturation with up-regulated expression of MHC class II, costimulatory (CD80, CD86) and adhesion (CD40, CD54) molecules. MALP-2 also enhances the secretion of cytokines (IL-1alpha, IL-6 and IL-12), and increases DC stimulatory activity on naive and antigen-specific T cells. Further studies demonstrated that MALP-2 treatment of DC results in a dose-dependent shift from the protein pattern of proteasomes to immunoproteasomes (up-regulation of LMP2, LMP7 and MECL1), which correlates with an increased proteolytic activity. Thus, the adjuvanticity of MALP-2 can be mediated, at least in part, by the stimulation of DC maturation, which in turn leads to an improved antigen presentation. Therefore, MALP-2 is a promising molecule for the development of immune therapeutic or prophylactic interventions.


Efficient induction of cross-presentating human B cell by transduction with human adenovirus type 7 vector.
Although human autologous B cells represent a promising alternative to dendritic cells (DCs) for easy large-scale preparation, the naive human B cells are always poor at antigen presentation. The safe and effective usage record of human adenovirus type 7 (HAdV7) live vaccines makes it attractive as a promising vaccine vector candidate. To investigate whether HAdV7 vector could be used to induce the human B cells cross-presentation, in the present study, we constructed the E3-defective recombinant HAdV7 vector encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). We demonstrated that naive human B cells can efficiently be transduced, and that the MAPKs/NF-κB pathway can be activated by recombinant HAdV7. We proved that cytokine TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-10, surface molecule MHC class I and the CD86, antigen-processing machinery (APM) compounds ERp57, TAP-1, and TAP-2. were upregulated in HAdV7 transduced human B cells. We also found that CEA-specific IFNγ expression, degranulation, and in vitro and ex vivo cytotoxicities are induced in autologous CD8(+) T cells presensitized by HAd7CEA modified human B cells. Meanwhile, our evidences clearly show that Toll-like receptors 9 (TLR9) antagonist IRS 869 significantly eliminated most of the HAdV7 initiated B cell activation and CD8(+) T cells response, supporting the role and contribution of TLR9 signaling in HAdV7 induced human B cell cross-presentation. Besides a better understanding of the interactions between recombinant HAdV7 and human naive B cells, to our knowledge, the present study provides the first evidence to support the use of HAdV7-modified B cells as a vehicle for vaccines and immunotherapy.


Applying insurance claims data to assess quality of care: a compilation of potential indicators.
Insurance claims records, which document many aspects of the process and outcome of medical care, are a practical and unobtrusive source of data for monitoring the quality of care provided to enrollees--a purpose for which they are rarely used. Data for these potential indicators could be drawn from claims or other administrative data systems. The authors established categories of care that could be used to develop claims-based indicators and compiled an annotated list of broad indicators for assessing the quality of care. The compilation of indicators is preceded by a discussion of some of the issues and challenges facing those who use and interpret claims-based indicators of quality.


Rapid alterations in neuroimmune gene expression after acute ethanol: Timecourse, sex differences and sensitivity to cranial surgery.
Prior work has established that that an acute ethanol challenge mimicking high intensity alcohol consumption increased IL-6 and suppressed IL-1β and TNFα mRNA in intoxication, with the opposite pattern seen in withdrawal. These experiments utilized Sprague-Dawley rats to further extend these results across time course (from 45 min to 6 h after ethanol), sex, and central versus peripheral expression. Furthermore, these data show that cannulation surgery may selectively modify the central neuroimmune response to ethanol. These findings highlight a unique plasticity of IL-6 that is specific to central structures and responsive to alterations by environmental factors.


Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of Older Persons: Strategies for Assessment and Intervention Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of Older Persons: Strategies for Assessment and Intervention Lorin Baumhover and S Colleen Beall Jessica Kingsley publishers 269pp £18.95 1-85302-405-8 1853024058.
The abuse of older people is an emotive issue and has been a focus for policy makers for some time now. This text, however, deals with issues of neglect and exploitation in detail, giving valuable guidance and sources of reference for care staff. 'Hie characteristics and recognition of all types of abuse are thoroughly explained, as well as the formal assessment process and documentation required. It then follows thera peufic intervention and effective discharge planning, culminating in an abuse prevention programme for staff working in long term- care. The training material is useful for all levels of staff.


"Modern Endovascular Therapy".
The past 25 years have been witness to a revolution in how vascular care is delivered. The majority of arterial and venous interventions have converted from open surgery to minimally invasive percutaneous endovascular procedures. This surgical innovations symposium article reviews current endovascular therapy in multiple vascular beds with a primary focus on carotid artery occlusive disease, aortic pathologies, and lower extremity arterial occlusive disease. Mesenteric arterial occlusive disease and lower extremity venous endovascular therapies are also briefly discussed. Indications for intervention, treatment examples and outcomes analysis are presented. While not reviewed in this article, endovascular therapy has also become first line in the treatment of coronary artery disease, chronic mesenteric arterial occlusive disease, superficial venous reflux, central vein occlusion, and acute venous thrombus intervention when indicated. Endovascular therapies are used in all vascular beds to treat the full spectrum of vascular pathologies. Aneurysm disease, atherosclerotic arterial occlusive disease, acute arterial and venous thrombosis, ongoing hemorrhage, and venous reflux are among the issues which can be addressed by endovascular means. The minimally invasive nature of endovascular treatments in what is largely a very co-morbid patient cohort is an attractive method of avoiding major procedural related morbidity and mortality.


Analyzing pedestrian crash injury severity at signalized and non-signalized locations.
This study identifies and compares the significant factors affecting pedestrian crash injury severity at signalized and unsignalized intersections. The factors explored include geometric predictors (e.g., presence and type of crosswalk and presence of pedestrian refuge area), traffic predictors (e.g., annual average daily traffic (AADT), speed limit, and percentage of trucks), road user variables (e.g., pedestrian age and pedestrian maneuver before crash), environmental predictors (e.g., weather and lighting conditions), and vehicle-related predictors (e.g., vehicle type). The analysis was conducted using the mixed logit model, which allows the parameter estimates to randomly vary across the observations. The study used three years of pedestrian crash data from Florida. Police reports were reviewed in detail to have a better understanding of how each pedestrian crash occurred. Additionally, information that is unavailable in the crash records, such as at-fault road user and pedestrian maneuver, was collected. At signalized intersections, higher AADT, speed limit, and percentage of trucks; very old pedestrians; at-fault pedestrians; rainy weather; and dark lighting condition were associated with higher pedestrian severity risk. For example, a one-percent higher truck percentage increases the probability of severe injuries by 1.37%. A one-mile-per-hour higher speed limit increases the probability of severe injuries by 1.22%. At unsignalized intersections, pedestrian walking along roadway, middle and very old pedestrians, at-fault pedestrians, vans, dark lighting condition, and higher speed limit were associated with higher pedestrian severity risk. On the other hand, standard crosswalks were associated with 1.36% reduction in pedestrian severe injuries. Several countermeasures to reduce pedestrian injury severity are recommended.


[Determination of interleukin-8 in induced sputum of workers exposed to low concentrations of asbestos].
The concentration of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in the induced sputum of 17 workers exposed to low airborne asbestos levels and of 10 controls was determined. IL-8 levels were statistically significantly increased in the asbestos exposed group compared to controls. This finding underlines the usefulness of the study of proinflammatory mediators as possible predictors of alveolar damage.


[Latest Findings in Key Research Areas of Precision Nursing for Chronic Diseases in Older Adults].
The advent of the era of biomedical big data has helped promote the development of precision nursing. Precision nursing for chronic diseases in older adults is an interdisciplinary research field in which accurate individualized data are utilized to carry out early screening and health management of older adult populations at high risk for chronic diseases and early intervention of diseases, which plays an important role in improving the prognosis of diseases and the health level of the older adult population. Herein, we introduced the concept of precision nursing, and discussed the latest research findings in the key areas of precision nursing for chronic diseases in older adults, including precision symptom management in cancer patients and precision nursing in older patients with multimorbidity. At present, research concerning precise symptom management of cancer patients is mainly focused on prediction modelling for risks of symptoms, longitudinal change trajectories, core symptom identification, etc. Investigations in the precise nursing of cancer patients are conducted in the following areas, risk prediction, the timing of interventions, and intervention targets. Research on precision nursing for multimorbidity is mainly focused on assessment of chronic disease multimorbidity, multimorbidity pattern recognition, and health management of multimorbidity. We also discussed potential opportunities and challenges of precision nursing in the future, in order to provide a scientific basis for the improving the practice and theories of precision nursing. In the future, precision nursing will play an ever more important role in uncovering pathogenic information, the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, the health of the research population, and the promotion of medical research.


Finasteride: new indication. Benign prostatic hypertrophy: sexual disorders.
About 10 fewer cases of acute urinary retention and surgery per 1000 patient-years of treatment . . . but about 30 treatment withdrawals due to sexual disorders.


[Electrophoretic determination of quantitative changes of the blood protein fractions after intermedin administration].
The authors present the results of experimental studies of the blood serum proteins metabolism in prolonged administration of intermedin--a hormone of the intermediate lobe of the hypophysis. Daily administration of this hormone caused a reduction of albumins and an increase of the beta-globulin fraction. The most pronounced changes in the protein spectrum were noted on the 15th-20th day of the experiment.


Undergraduate medical student perceptions and learning outcomes related to anatomy training using Thiel- and ethanol-glycerin-embalmed tissues.
Anatomical dissection is known to serve as an integral tool in teaching gross anatomy, including postgraduate training. A variety of embalming techniques exist, resulting in different haptic and optical tissue properties. This study aimed to objectify learning outcomes and medical student perceptions related to the use of two widely used embalming techniques, namely Thiel and ethanol-glycerin embalming. Between 2020 and 2022, first- and second-year medical students enrolled in the course on topographic anatomy participated in this study. Objective structured practical examinations were carried out for the head, neck, thorax, abdomen, pelvis, and extremity regions following regional dissection just before the oral examinations began. Six to ten numbered tags were marked in prosections of each region in Thiel- and ethanol-glycerin-embalmed specimens. Following the examinations, the students were surveyed regarding the suitability of the two embalming techniques with respect to preservation, colorfastness, tissue pliability, and the suitability in preparing for their anatomy examinations. Consistently higher scores were achieved for the thoracic and abdominal regions in ethanol-glycerin-embalmed specimens when compared to Thiel. No benefit was found for Thiel-embalmed upper or lower extremities. Tissues embalmed with ethanol-glycerin were rated higher for preservation and suitability to achieve the learning objectives, tissue pliability was rated higher for Thiel-embalmed tissues. Ethanol-glycerin embalming appears to offer certain advantages for undergraduate students in recognizing visceral structures, which may align with students' ideas on tissue suitability for their learning. Consequently, the benefits reported for Thiel embalming for postgraduate study unlikely reflect its suitability for novices.


Biosynthesis of isoprenoid compounds in Schistosoma mansoni.
The isoprenoid biosynthetic capacity of digenetic trematodes was investigated by following the fate of [14C]mevalonic acid incorporated by Schistosoma mansoni during maintenance in axenic culture. Isoprenoid compounds were analyzed by thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. Of the nonsaponifiable lipid classes, radioactivity was recovered in the dolichols, ubiquinones and in the short-chain isoprenoid alcohols. The latter group of lipids included geraniol, farnesol, geranylgeraniol and a compound tentatively identified as 2,3-dihydrogeranylgeraniol. Radioactivity derived from [14C]mevalonate was also incorporated into the saponifiable lipids, with 2,3-dihydrogeranylgeranoic acid accompanied by much less geranylgeranoic acid being detected in the triacylglycerol-containing fraction. Similarly, geranylgeraniol and the dihydro derivative were also detected as esters, presumably with fatty acids. The possible significance of the results is discussed.


Direct contact test for estimating the ecotoxicity of aerosol samples.
Atmospheric particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter less than 10 μm (PM10) and 2.5 μm (PM2.5) is now identified as one of the most dangerous pollutants on human health by the EU new directive on air quality (2008/50/CE). Although these primary pollutants are monitored in cities, little information is available on their ecotoxicity. In this paper a 'whole-aerosol' testing protocol is suggested based on the kinetic version of the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition test.


Do GWAS and studies of heterozygotes for NPC1 and/or NPC2 explain why NPC disease cases are so rare?
Early onset Niemann-Pick C diseases are extremely rare, especially Niemann-Pick C2. Perhaps unusually for autosomal recessive diseases, heterozygotes for mutations in NPC1 manifest many biological variations. NPC2 deficiency has large effects on fertility. These features of NPC1 and NPC2 are reviewed in regard to possible negative selection for heterozygotes carrying null and hypomorphic alleles.


A data-driven approach to optimizing clinical study eligibility criteria.
Feasible, safe, and inclusive eligibility criteria are crucial to successful clinical research recruitment. Existing expert-centered methods for eligibility criteria selection may not be representative of real-world populations. This paper presents a novel model called OPTEC (OPTimal Eligibility Criteria) based on the Multiple Attribute Decision Making method boosted by an efficient greedy algorithm. It systematically identifies the optimal criteria combination for a given medical condition with the optimal tradeoff among feasibility, patient safety, and cohort diversity. The model offers flexibility in attribute configurations and generalizability to various clinical domains. The model was evaluated on two clinical domains (i.e., Alzheimer's disease and Neoplasm of pancreas) using two datasets (i.e., MIMIC-III dataset and NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center (NYP/CUIMC) database). We simulated the process of automatically optimizing eligibility criteria according to user-specified prioritization preferences and generated recommendations based on the top-ranked criteria combination accordingly (top 0.41-2.75%) with OPTEC. Harnessing the power of the model, we designed an interactive criteria recommendation system and conducted a case study with an experienced clinical researcher using the think-aloud protocol. The results demonstrated that OPTEC could be used to recommend feasible eligibility criteria combinations, and to provide actionable recommendations for clinical study designers to construct a feasible, safe, and diverse cohort definition during early study design.


Intrasacral meningeal cyst demonstrated by sacral epidurography.
A case of intrasacral meningeal cyst is reported in which radiculography and computed tomography were not conclusive in diagnosing the lesion. Sacral epidurography delineated the cyst very clearly and is proposed as a complementary imaging technique in lesions of the sacral canal.


Inhibition of platelet-derived growth factor-AB signaling prevents electromechanical remodeling of adult atrial myocytes that contact myofibroblasts.
Persistent atrial fibrillation (PAF) results in electromechanical and structural remodeling by mechanisms that are poorly understood. Myofibroblast proliferation and fibrosis are major sources of structural remodeling in PAF. Myofibroblasts also interact with atrial myocytes via direct physical contact and release of signaling molecules, which may contribute to remodeling. To determine whether myofibroblasts contribute to atrial myocyte electromechanical remodeling via direct physical contact and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) signaling. Myofibroblasts and myocytes from adult sheep atria were co-cultured for 24 hours. Alternatively adult sheep atrial myocytes were exposed to 1 ng/mL recombitant PDGF AB peptide for 24 hours. Myocytes making contact with myofibroblasts demonstrated significant reduction (P ≤ .05) in peak L-type calcium current density, shortening of action potential duration (APD), and reduction in calcium transients. These effects were blocked by pretreatment with a PDGF-AB neutralizing anti-body. Heterocellular contact also severely disturbed the localization of the L-type calcium channel. Myocytes exposed to recombinant PDGF-AB peptide for 24 hours demonstrated reduced APD50, APD80 and Peak L-type calcium current. Pretreatment with a PDGF-AB neutralizing antibody prevented these effects. Finally, while control atrial myocytes did not respond in a 1:1 manner to pacing frequencies of 3 Hz or higher, atrial myocytes from hearts that were tachypaced for 2 months and normal myocytes treated with PDGF-AB for 24 hours could be paced up to 10 Hz. In addition to leading to fibrosis, atrial myofibroblasts contribute to electromechanical remodeling of myocytes via direct physical contact and release of PDGF-AB, which may be a factor in PAF-induced remodeling.


Binaural-bimodal hearing: concomitant use of a unilateral cochlear implant and a contralateral hearing aid.
The benefit obtained with a contralateral hearing aid (HA) in unilateral cochlear implantees improves over time, at least during the first year after implantation. To evaluate binaural-bimodal auditory ability and its early changes over time after unilateral cochlear implantation in patients with residual hearing in the non-implanted ear, in which they use an HA. Sentence identification in background noise was tested in 12 patients (3 post-lingual adults and 9 pre-lingual adults and older children) under 3 listening conditions: cochlear implant (CI) alone, HA alone and CI+HA. The presentation level was 55 dB HL with a signal-to-noise ratio of +10 dB. Subjects were tested after 1-6 months of concomitant use of both devices and again after a further 7-12 months. At the first testing session, the mean score in background noise was 34.9% with CI alone (range 0-90%) and 41.1% with both devices (range 0-100%). Seven patients could recognize sentences in noise with CI alone, and four of them showed further improvement with added amplification. At the second session, at which all subjects could recognize sentences in noise with the CI alone, seven showed further improvement with added amplification. The mean score was 60.6% with CI alone (range 10-99%) and 75.5% with both devices (range 52-100%).


[Neuropsychological functions in individuals exposed to small dose ionizing radiation].
Two groups, including 205 Chernobyl wreckers and 88 staff workers exposed to ionizing radiation, were examined. In the former group, radiation doses were 0.005-0.349 Gy, in the latter one--0.0001-0.011 Gy. An examination was conducted according to standard diagnostic neuropsychological tests proposed by A.S. Luria. Both groups were found to exhibit deviations of different degree. Memory, acoustic-perceptual and, partially, thinking functions were most vulnerable.


Myxozoan parasitism in waterfowl.
Myxozoans are spore-forming, metazoan parasites common in cold-blooded aquatic vertebrates, especially fishes, with alternate life cycle stages developing in invertebrates. We report nine cases of infection in free-flying native and captive exotic ducks (Anseriformes: Anatidae) from locations across the United States and describe the first myxozoan in birds, Myxidium anatidum n. sp. We found developmental stages and mature spores in the bile ducts of a Pekin duck (domesticated Anas platyrhynchos). Spores are lens-shaped in sutural view, slightly sigmoidal in valvular view, with two polar capsules, and each valve cell has 14-16 longitudinal surface ridges. Spore dimensions are 23.1 microm x 10.8 microm x 11.2 microm. Phylogenetic analysis of the ssrRNA gene revealed closest affinity with Myxidium species described from chelonids (tortoises). Our novel finding broadens the definition of the Myxozoa to include birds as hosts and has implications for understanding myxozoan evolution, and mechanisms of geographical and host range extension. The number of infection records indicates this is not an incidental occurrence, and the detection of such widely dispersed cases suggests more myxozoans in birds will be encountered with increased surveillance of these hosts for pathogens.


Passive dosimeters for nitrogen dioxide in personal/indoor air sampling: a review.
Accurate measurement of nitrogen dioxide concentrations in both outdoor and indoor environments, including personal exposures, is a fundamental step for linking atmospheric nitrogen dioxide levels to potential health and ecological effects. The measurement has been conducted generally in two ways: active (pumped) sampling and passive (diffusive) sampling. Diffusion samplers, initially developed and used for workplace air monitoring, have been found to be useful and cost-effective alternatives to conventional pumped samplers for monitoring ambient, indoor and personal exposures at the lower concentrations found in environmental settings. Since the 1970s, passive samplers have been deployed for ambient air monitoring in urban and rural sites, and to determine personal and indoor exposure to NO2. This article reviews the development of NO2 passive samplers, the sampling characteristics of passive samplers currently available, and their application in ambient and indoor air monitoring and personal exposure studies. The limitations and advantages of the various passive sampler geometries (i.e., tube, badge, and radial type) are also discussed. This review provides researchers and risk assessors with practical information about NO2 passive samplers, especially useful when designing field sampling strategies for exposure and indoor/outdoor air sampling.


Effect of OH internal torsion on the OH-stretching spectrum of cis,cis-HOONO.
We show that a simple two-dimensional vibrational model can explain most of the features observed in the first and second OH-stretching overtone region of the room temperature cis,cis-HOONO spectrum. The model uses ab initio calculated parameters and includes the OH-stretching mode coupled to the internal torsion of the OH group.


Blood Glucose Monitoring and Its Determinants in Diabetic Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study in Shandong, China.
The aim of this study was to explore the status of blood glucose monitoring and its determinants in diabetic patients in Shandong Province, China. This was a cross-sectional survey conducted from 31 August to 12 October 12, in Shandong Province. A multi-stage stratified cluster sampling method was used to select participants. A total of 2183 diabetic patients were included in the analysis. Frequencies and proportions were used to describe the data, and multiple binary logistic regressions were performed to determine factors associated with blood glucose monitoring. Of the participants, 51.4% tested their blood glucose level more than once a month. The multivariate logistic regression model showed that seven variables were significantly associated with the frequency of blood glucose monitoring: education level, residence, household income, self-reported health, physical examination, anti-diabetic drug or insulin injection, and comorbidity. The level of blood glucose monitoring among diabetic patients in Shandong Province is low. Based on these results we recommend that the cost of blood glucose monitoring by professionals in laboratories be reimbursed or at least reduced and that diabetic patients be encouraged to undergo regular physical examinations.


Endothelial Rap1B mediates T-cell exclusion to promote tumor growth: a novel mechanism underlying vascular immunosuppression.
Overcoming vascular immunosuppression: lack of endothelial cell (EC) responsiveness to inflammatory stimuli in the proangiogenic environment of tumors, is essential for successful cancer immunotherapy. The mechanisms through which Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A(VEGF-A) modulates tumor EC response to exclude T-cells are not well understood. Here, we demonstrate that EC-specific deletion of small GTPase Rap1B, previously implicated in normal angiogenesis, restricts tumor growth in endothelial-specific Rap1B-knockout (Rap1BiΔEC) mice. EC-specific Rap1B deletion inhibits angiogenesis, but also leads to an altered tumor microenvironment with increased recruitment of leukocytes and increased activity of tumor CD8+ T-cells. Depletion of CD8+ T-cells restored tumor growth in Rap1BiΔEC mice. Mechanistically, global transcriptome and functional analyses indicated upregulation of signaling by a tumor cytokine, TNF-α, and increased NF-κB transcription in Rap1B-deficient ECs. Rap1B-deficiency led to elevated proinflammatory chemokine and Cell Adhesion Molecules (CAMs) expression in TNF-α stimulated ECs. Importantly, CAM expression was elevated in tumor ECs from Rap1BiΔEC mice. Significantly, Rap1B deletion prevented VEGF-A-induced immunosuppressive downregulation of CAM expression, demonstrating that Rap1B is essential for VEGF-A-suppressive signaling. Thus, our studies identify a novel endothelial-endogenous mechanism underlying VEGF-A-dependent desensitization of EC to proinflammatory stimuli. Significantly, they identify EC Rap1B as a potential novel vascular target in cancer immunotherapy.


Amino alcohol-modified β-cyclodextrin inducing biomimetic asymmetric oxidation of thioanisole in water.
Inspired by β-CD, a macrocyclic oligomers of D-(+)-glucopyranose and a renewable material, which could be obtained from starch, that can promote a lot of organic reactions in water, a green solvent, several amino alcohol-modified β-CDs CD-1 to CD-7 were synthesized in the yields of 36-61%. Their conformations in vacuum and in aqueous solution were optimized by quantum calculation. Their complexes with sodium molybdate prepared in situ were characterized by (1)H NMR and were applied in the asymmetric oxidation of thioanisole. Their performance in inducing enantioselectivity was investigated in detail. For the optimal one, CD-1, moderate enantioselectivity (56% ee) was achieved in aqueous CH(3)COONa-HCl buffer solution (pH 7.0). The abilities of CD-1 to CD-7 to induce asymmetry are highly dependent on the pH value of the reaction medium and the structure of the modifying group. The origin of the moderate enantioselectivity and the reaction mechanism were investigated with the aid of (1)H ROESY NMR studies and quantum calculation. The moderate enantioselectivity was attributed to the two different binding models between CD-1 and thioanisole, which could be defined as intramolecular catalysis and intermolecular catalysis, in which intramolecular catalysis gave (S)-methyl phenyl sulfoxide and intermolecular catalysis gave (R,S)-methyl phenyl sulfoxide.


[Protein and mRNA expression of aquaporin-1 in epithelial ovarian tumors and its clinic significance].
To investigate protein and mRNA expression of aquaporin-1 (AQP1) in epithelial ovarian tumors and its clinic significance. The protein and mRNA expressions of AQP1 were measured by immunohistochemical technique, western blot and RT-PCR in 65 cases of epithelial ovarian tumors and 13 cases of normal ovary tissue. AQP1 located in microvascular and small vessel epithelial cells. The protein and mRNA expressions of AQP1 in ovarian cancer (0.39 +/- 0.12, 0.93 +/- 0.51, respectively) and ovarian borderline tumors (0.43 +/- 0.21, 0.95 +/- 0.34, respectively) were significantly higher than that of ovarian benign tumors (0.27 +/- 0.13, 0.51 +/- 0.41, respectively; P < 0.05) and normal ovary tissue (0.24 +/- 0.13, 0.34 +/- 0.29, respectively; P < 0.05). Of all ovarian cancers, expression of AQP1 in cases with ascites more than 1000 ml (0.46 +/- 0.13, 1.25 +/- 0.57, respectively) was higher than that of ascites less than 1 approximately 499 ml (0.35 +/- 0.11, 0.75 +/- 0.45, respectively; P < 0.05). Over-expression of AQP1 plays an important role in development of epithelial ovarian tumors, and may be related with formation of ascites of ovarian carcinoma.


Effects of loud noise on hippocampal and cerebellar-related behaviors. Role of oxidative state.
Living organisms are exposed to potentially hazardous noise levels coming from the environment. Besides the direct effect on hearing, extra-auditory noise-associated effects should be considered. Since loud noise has been suggested to induce central nervous system symptoms, the aim of the present work was to investigate the effect of acute (ANE) and chronic noise exposures (CNE) on different behavioral tasks. To understand the mechanisms involved, levels of oxidative status markers were determined in two areas related to memory processes, the hippocampus (Hip) and the cerebellum (CE). 15-day-old male Wistar rats were exposed to loud noise (95-97 dB, 2h/day), at ANE or CNE. At 30 days, rats were subjected to different CE and Hip-related behavioral tasks. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT and SOD) were also assessed. Results show impairments in spatial and associative memory in noise-exposed animals. Moreover, a decrease in anxiety levels and an increase in habituation memory were observed in CNE animals. While an increase in cerebellar ROS levels was found early after the first noise exposure, a decrease was found in the CE and the Hip at 30 days. The activity of hippocampal CAT was increased early and remained high in ANE rats, while it was unchanged in the CE. Finally, although SOD activity was decreased immediately after the first noise exposure, its levels were increased at 30 days in ANE rats. In summary, the present study shows that an imbalance in oxidative status induced by noise exposure could underlie behavioral changes, some of which would be long-lasting.


A Comprehensive Description of the Lateral Patellofemoral Complex: Anatomy and Anisometry.
The lateral patellofemoral complex (LPFC) is an important stabilizer of the patella composed of the lateral retinacular structures including the lateral patellofemoral ligament (LPFL), the lateral patellomeniscal ligament (LPML), and the lateral patellotibial ligament (LPTL). While the isolated anatomy of the LPFL has been previously described, no previous study has investigated the entirety of the LPFC structure, length changes, and radiographic landmarks. An understanding of LPFC anatomy is important in the setting of LPFL injury or previous lateral release resulting in iatrogenic medial instability requiring LPFC reconstruction. To both qualitatively and quantitatively describe the anatomy and length changes of the LPFC on gross anatomic dissections and standard radiographic views. Descriptive laboratory study. Ten nonpaired cadaveric specimens were utilized in this study. Specimens were dissected to identify distinct attachments of the LPFL, LPML, and LPTL. Ligament lengths, footprints, and centers of each attachment were described with respect to osseous landmarks using a 3-dimensional coordinate measuring device. Ligament length changes were also assessed from 0° to 90° of flexion. Radiopaque markers were subsequently utilized to describe attachments on standard anteroposterior and lateral radiographic views. The individual elements of the LPFC were identified in all specimens. The LPFL patellar attachment had an average total length of 22.5 mm (range, 18.3-27.5 mm), involving a mean of 59% (range, 50%-75%) of the sagittal patella. Based on the average patellar size, a mean of 63% of the LPFL attached to the patella, and the remainder (11.1 ± 1.4 mm) inserted into the patellar tendon. The femoral attachment of the LPFL had a mean maximum length of 24.4 ± 4.3 mm. The center of the LPFL femoral attachment was a mean distance of 13.5 ± 3.2 mm anterior and distal to the lateral epicondyle. The LPFL demonstrated significant shortening, especially in the first 45° of flexion (7.5 ± 5.1 mm). In contrast, the LPTL (5.5 ± 3.0 mm) and LPML (10.0 ± 3.3 mm) demonstrated significant shortening from 45° to 90°. On lateral radiographs, the center of the femoral attachment of the LPFL was a mean total distance of 19.2 ± 7.2 mm from the lateral epicondyle. The most important findings of this study were the correlative anatomy of 3 distinct lateral patellar ligaments (LPFL, LPML, and LPTL) and their anisometry through flexion. All 3 components demonstrated significant shortening during flexion. The quantitative and radiographic measurements detailed the LPFL osseous attachment on the patella; soft tissue attachment on the patellar tendon; and finally, the osseous insertion on the femur distal and anterior to the lateral epicondyle. Similarly, the authors documented the meniscal insertion of the LPML and defined a patellar insertion of the LPTL and LPML as a single attachment. These data allow for reproducible landmarks to aid in the understanding and reconstruction of the lateral patellar restraints. The data produced from this investigation provide a comprehensive description of these 3 lateral patellar stabilizers (LPFL, LPML, LPTL). These data can be used intraoperatively to facilitate anatomic reconstructions of the lateral patellar stabilizers.


Ferrimagnetic spintronics.
Ferrimagnets composed of multiple and antiferromagnetically coupled magnetic elements have attracted much attention recently as a material platform for spintronics. They offer the combined advantages of both ferromagnets and antiferromagnets, namely the easy control and detection of their net magnetization by an external field, antiferromagnetic-like dynamics faster than ferromagnetic dynamics and the potential for high-density devices. This Review summarizes recent progress in ferrimagnetic spintronics, with particular attention to the most-promising functionalities of ferrimagnets, which include their spin transport, spin texture dynamics and all-optical switching.


Synthesis of S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine Analogs with Extended Transferable Groups for Methyltransferase-Directed Labeling of DNA and RNA.
S-Adenosyl-L-methionine (AdoMet) is a ubiquitous methyl donor for a variety of biological methylation reactions catalyzed by methyltransferases (MTases). AdoMet analogs with extended propargylic chains replacing the sulfonium-bound methyl group can serve as surrogate cofactors for many DNA and RNA MTases, enabling covalent derivatization and subsequent labeling of their cognate target sites in DNA or RNA. Although AdoMet analogs with saturated aliphatic chains are less popular than propargylic ones, they can be useful for dedicated studies that require certain chemical derivatization. Here we describe synthetic procedures for the preparation of two AdoMet analogs, one with a transferable 6-azidohex-2-ynyl group (carrying an activating C≡C triple bond and a terminal azide functionality), and the other one with a transferable ethyl-2,2,2-d3 group (an isotope-labeled aliphatic moiety). Our synthetic approach is based on direct chemoselective alkylation of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine at sulfur with a corresponding nosylate or triflate, respectively, under acidic conditions. We also describe synthetic routes to 6-azidohex-2-yn-1-ol and conversion of the alcohols to corresponding nosylate and triflate alkylators. Using these protocols, the synthetic AdoMet analogs can be prepared within 1 to 2 weeks. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis of 6-azidohex-2-yn-1-ol Basic Protocol 2: Synthesis of 4-nitrobenzenesulfonate Basic Protocol 3: Synthesis of trifluoromethanesulfonates Basic Protocol 4: S-Alkylation of AdoHcy with sulfonates Basic Protocol 5: Purification and characterization of AdoMet analogs.


Immunodiagnosis of chronic Chagas' disease using the Tc 46 and Tc 58 antigens.
The polypeptides of 46 and 58 kDa were recognized in different T. cruzi strains (Y, WSL and Colombiana) by serum of all chagasic patients studied. These polypeptides were isolated from T. cruzi Y strain and used in ELISA. The sensitivity and specificity were 97.6% [CI 95%: 86-100%] and 100% [CI 95%: 89.3-100%], respectively when Tc 46 was used. When Tc 58 was used the sensitivity and specificity were 100% [CI 95%: 89.6-100%] and 90.2% [CI 95%: 75.9-96.8%], respectively.


Substrate interferes with dimerisation of outer membrane phospholipase A.
Outer membrane phospholipase A (OMPLA) activity is regulated by reversible dimerisation with the dimer being the active species. Observed lag phases in activity indicated that dimerisation may be slow relative to turnover. A covalent OMPLA dimer indeed did not display lag phase behaviour. A model for OMPLA kinetics was proposed accounting for a slow dimerisation step. Preincubation conditions determined the initial amount of monomer and influenced both lag times and final activities. Under the conditions used, substrate concentrations higher than 50 mol% inhibited OMPLA activity and increased lag times. Our results may shed more light on mechanisms controlling OMPLA activity in vivo.


Cardiomyocyte apoptosis after antegrade and retrograde cardioplegia during aortic valve surgery.
Retrograde delivery is associated with inadequate perfusion of cardioplegia to all regions of the heart, but the effects on cardiomyocyte death and functional outcome remain unknown. We compared antegrade and retrograde cardioplegia in a randomized clinical trial to see whether it has effect on cardiomyocyte apoptosis and left ventricular function. Patients underwent elective aortic valve replacement surgery due to aortic valve stenosis. They were randomly allocated to receive antegrade (n = 10) or retrograde (n = 10) cardioplegia. Apoptotic cardiomyocytes (terminal transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling, caspase activation) and RNA levels of apoptosis-regulating proteins were studied in transmyocardial biopsies obtained before and after the operation. Magnetic resonance imaging and transesophageal echocardiography were performed, and cardiac enzymes were measured. Clinical outcome and cardiac enzyme release were comparable between the groups. Cardiomyocyte apoptosis was significantly increased (terminal transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling) in the left ventricle after the operation in the retrograde, but not in the antegrade group (respectively, 0.00% [0.039%] versus 0.092% [0.205%], p = 0.01; and 0.00% [0.00%] versus 0.023% [0.054%], p = 0.14). Expression of apoptosis-regulating proteins BAX, BAD, and BCL-2 were comparable between groups. By transesophageal echocardiography, the systolic mitral annulus movement was decreased immediately after the operation in the retrograde group. By magnetic resonance imaging, the left ventricle mass index was reduced preoperatively to 9 months postoperatively in the antegrade group. In contrast to antegrade cardioplegia, retrograde cardioplegia is associated with increased cardiomyocyte apoptosis, impaired immediate postoperative systolic function, and lack of long-term favorable left ventricle remodeling after aortic valve replacement, suggesting inadequate myocardial protection.


Triazolothiadiazoles and triazolothiadiazines as potent α-glucosidase inhibitors: Mechanistic insights from kinetics studies, molecular docking and dynamics simulations.
Diabetes mellitus has been considered as a serious health problem worldwide due its high prevalence rate and associated complications. In this context, the current research work aims at exploring new structural leads for the treatment of a major metabolic disorder, diabetes mellitus type 2. The outcomes of our prior studies on a diverse set of triazolothiadiazole and triazolothiadiazine derivatives and their therapeutic potential, encouraged us to explore their anti-diabetic competency by targeting the key carbohydrate catabolic enzyme, α-glucosidase. Therefore, all these analogues were examined to reveal their contribution towards this severe metabolic issue. Interestingly, all the tested compounds (2a-2l and 3a-3p) exhibited several times more potent α-glucosidase inhibitory activities (IC50 in the range of 2.44-219.93 μM) as compared to marketed drug, acarbose (IC50 = 873.34 ± 1.67 μM). Furthermore, their mechanism of action was investigated through in vitro kinetics studies which revealed compounds 3a, 3d, 3o, and 2k as competitive inhibitors, and 3f as a mixed type inhibitor of α-glucosidase. In addition, in silico molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations were applied to observe the mode of interaction of the active hits within the binding pocket of α-glucosidase. Both docking and simulation results favored our in vitro mechanistic analysis.


Prostacyclin and thromboxane A2 production by human cardiac atrial tissues.
We examined the generation of prostacyclin and thromboxane A2 in the right atrial tissues obtained from patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery. In all instances, the capability of atrial tissues to produce these potent prostaglandins was identified. The identity of prostacyclin and thromboxane A2 was confirmed by use of specific radioimmunoassays of stable metabolites and by use of specific thromboxane A2 synthetase and cyclo-oxygenase inhibitors.


Prospective clinical and radiological two-year results after patellofemoral arthroplasty using an implant with an asymmetric trochlea design.
The purpose was to prospectively evaluate the two-year results after implantation of the Journey PFJ(®) (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA). The authors hypothesized that patellofemoral arthroplasty would result in improved outcomes after 24 months in patients treated with an isolated procedure as well as in patients demonstrating concomitant patellofemoral instability (PFI), which were treated with a combined surgical procedure. Patients were included between 02/2006 and 08/2008. According to the history and clinical findings, patients were grouped into group I with no history or clinical signs of PFI, and patients with concomitant PFI were assorted to group II. Patients were then treated with an isolated (group I) or a combined (group II) surgical procedure to additionally treat the PFI. Visual analogue scale (VAS), Lysholm score and WOMAC score were recorded preoperatively, 6, 12 and 24 months postoperatively. Patellar height was evaluated according to the index of Caton-Deschamps (CDI), and osteoarthritic changes were evaluated according to Kellgren and Lawrence. A total of 25 patients were enrolled, of them three discontinued interventions and were excluded from final analysis. An isolated implantation of the Journey PFJ(®) was performed in 14 patients (group I) and a combined procedure in 8 (group II). Daily pain and clinical scores significantly improved at 6, 12 and 24 months compared to preoperative values (P < 0.05). Significant decrease (P = 0.02) of mean CDI could be noticed. Significant increase in tibiofemoral OA within the medial but not in the lateral tibiofemoral joint was assessed (P = 0.011; n.s.). Patellofemoral arthroplasty using the Journey(®) PFJ for treatment of significant patellofemoral OA demonstrated improved clinical scores at the 2-year follow-up in both groups. Comparing the primary OA (I) and OA + instability (II) groups, patients with patellofemoral OA treated with a combined procedure for concomitant stabilization of patellofemoral instability may benefit more from such a combined procedure, than patients treated with an isolated procedure for treatment of isolated patellofemoral OA. Prospective case series, Level III.


Exogenous lipoid pneumonia due to nasal application of petroleum jelly.
We describe a patient who presented with a history of unexplained exertional dyspnea and pulmonary infiltrates. She was evaluated for interstitial lung disease, presumed to be idiopathic and underwent an open lung biopsy. The pathologic findings were compatible with exogenous lipoid pneumonia and her history revealed longstanding use of intranasal petroleum jelly (Vaseline) at bedtime.


Hemodynamics of sequential grafts.
Sequential femoropopliteal-tibial grafts have been advocated as a promising treatment for use in patients with severe ischemia of the distal lower extremity. Proponents hypothesize better patency rates due to documented increases in proximal graft flow with the sequential technique. We hypothesized that the effect of the sequential graft was to create competitive collateral flow and that distal graft flow would not be increased with the addition of a sequential anastomosis. Seven adult dogs with chronic occlusions were studied with angiography and underwent sequential iliofemoral bypass grafting. Proximal and distal flows were measured with and without the sequential anastomosis open to flow. Proximal graft flows increased significantly whereas distal flows decreased significantly in all dogs with an open sequential anastomosis. The study suggests that there may be limitations to the use of sequential bypass grafts.


Reduction in accumulation of [3H]triphenylmethylphosphonium cation in neuroblastoma cells caused by optical probes of membrane potential. Evidence for interactions between carbocyanine dyes and lipophilic anions.
The accumulation of [3H]triphenylmethylphosphonium cation in neuroblastoma N1E 115 cells in the presence of tetraphenylboron is reduced by 3,3'-diethylthiadicarbocyanine iodide and by 3,3'-dipropylthiadicarbocyanine iodide. This reduction in uptake of the lipophilic cation is not due to the carbocyanine dyes depolarizing the plasma membrane of these cells but due to an interaction between the carbocyanine dyes and tetraphenylboron leaving less of the lipophilic anion free in solution to assist uptake of the lipophilic cation. This interaction is shown to have a 1:1 stoicheiometry.


FOXP3(+) regulatory and TIA-1(+) cytotoxic T lymphocytes in HIV-associated Hodgkin lymphoma.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infects CD4(+) lymphocytes, leading to a development of malignant lymphomas, such as HIV-associated Hodgkin Lymphoma (HIV-HL). This study aimed to assess the differences in cellular composition of the inflammatory reactive background of HIV-HLs. We examined infiltrating T lymphocytes, specifically regulatory T cells, cytotoxic cells, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) related antigens and HIV-receptor CCR5. In all HIV-HL cases, Hodgkin and Reed-Sternberg (HRS) cells showed EBER1 expression, LMP-1 staining positivity and EBNA-2 staining negativity, except for one case which showed LMP-1 staining negativity. Our histological findings indicate the percentage of CD8(+) , TIA-1(+) lymphocytes was significantly higher in HIV-HL than in non-HIV-HL cases (P < 0.05). On the other hand, the percentage of CD4(+) , FOXP3(+) lymphocytes was significantly lower in HIV-HL than in non-HIV-HL cases (P < 0.05) but present. The percentage of CCR5(+) lymphocytes was significantly lower in HIV-HL than in non-HIV-HL cases (P < 0.05). Usually, CD4(+) and CCR5(+) lymphocytes are reported to be rarely detected in HIV-associated non-Hodgkin lymphomas, but the presence of CD4(+) and/or FOXP3(+) lymphocytes may be implicated in the pathogenesis of HL. In addition, although additional CD8(+) lymphocytes are probably not EBV-LMP specific cytotoxic T-cells, these lymphocytes may also well be involved in the pathogenesis of HIV-HL.


C-reactive protein predicts aortic aneurysmal disease progression after endovascular repair.
This study aims to investigate the prognostic significance of the rate of variation of C-reactive protein (CRP) levels as a predictor of aneurysmal sac and neck expansion and, therefore, of aneurysm disease progression, in patients undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in the absence of endoleaks. 192 patients following non-emergency elective EVAR for asymptomatic infra-renal abdominal aorta aneurysm (AAA) were included after a six-month period after intervention to ensure the treatment success and absence of endoleaks. Expansion of aneurysm sac or neck after the six-month stabilization term occurred in 120 (63%) and 128 (67%) patients for a mean follow-up of 53±23 months. The relative CRP plasma level gradient significantly differed between the subgroups of patients according to relative sac expansion quartiles (7%, 26%, 39%, and 61%; p<0.001). In the bivariate analysis, the aorta sac diameter expansion rate progressively increased in the subgroups determined by CRP gradient quartiles (-0.5±1%, 3.6±1%, 8±2%, 10±3%; p<0.01). The median (25th; 75th quartile) CRP level rise in "rapid expanders" patients (those above the median annual sac expansion rate of 5.7%) was 51% (37%; 67%) compared with 15% (3%; 28%) in "slow- or non-expanders" (p<0.001). The multivariate age-adjusted logistic model confirmed the variation of CRP level and neck length as the only factors independently associated to sac expansion (odds ratio 4.3; 95% CI: 2.3-7.9 and 1.7; 95% CI: 1.3-2.2, respectively). There is a significant time-related association between AAA sac diameter enlargement and CRP plasma level gradient after EVAR in the absence of endoleaks, confirming the latter as a proper marker of aneurysm disease progression and rate of expansion in these patients.


Association between cardiovascular risk factors and left ventricular strain distribution in patients without previous cardiovascular disease.
Some cardiovascular (CV) risk factors, such as hypertension and diabetes mellitus, have been reported to reduce left ventricular (LV) longitudinal strain (LS) even in patients with preserved LV ejection fraction. We hypothesized that multiple CV risk factors might cause changes in myocardial strain. Our study aimed to assess the association between multiple CV risk factors and strain in patients without previous CV disease (CVD). We retrospectively evaluated 137 patients without CVD, who underwent echocardiography at our institution between May 2017 and February 2020. They were divided into four groups based on the number of risk factors (group 0: no risk factor, group 1: one risk factor, group 2: two risk factors, and groups 3: three or four risk factors). Risk factors were hypertension, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. Absolute values of global LS (GLS) and relative apical LS ratio (RALSR) defined using the equation: average apical LS/(average basal LS + average mid LS) and was used as a marker of strain distribution. Out of 137 patients, group 0 had 35 patients, group 1 had 35 patients, group 2 had 32 patients, and group 3 had 35 patients. GLS was 22.4 ± 2.0%, 21.7 ± 2.1%, 21.3 ± 1.8%, 20.7 ± 2.2%, and RALSR was 0.64 ± 0.06, 0.66 ± 0.06, 0.68 ± 0.08, 0.69 ± 0.07 in groups 0-3, respectively. The one-way ANOVA detected significant differences between groups in GLS (p = 0.005) and RALSR (p = 0.037), respectively. Group 3 had a significantly lower GLS and higher RALSR than group 0 (p < 0.05). In patients without previous CVD, LS decreased especially from the basal segment as the number of cardiovascular risks increased. The segmental LS may be markers of occult LV dysfunction in patients with CV risk factors.


Growth of Mashona cattle on range in Zimbabwe. I. Environmental influences on liveweight and weight gain.
Data from 1,456 purebred Mashona calves were analysed to determine environmental influences on growth rate and liveweight at birth, weaning (205 days) and 18 months of age. Calves were born between mid-September and mid-December each year. Year of birth was highly significant for all traits (P less than 0.001). Pre-weaning liveweight and weight gain increased as age of dam increased to seven years after which growth tended to decline. Post-weaning compensatory growth was apparent in calves of young dams. Male calves grew faster and were heavier at all stages than female calves (P less than 0.001). Calves from previously non-lactating cows grew more rapidly and were heavier at all ages than those from previously lactating cows. Birth weight increased as calving season advanced and calves born late maintained their growth advantage until 18 months of age. The results indicate that environmental influences experienced in early life persist long after weaning.


Nitrogen removal and mass balance in newly-formed Myriophyllum aquaticum mesocosm during a single 28-day incubation with swine wastewater treatment.
The aim of this research was to assess the applicability of Myriophyllum (M.) aquaticum for swine wastewater treatment. Nitrogen (N) removal processes were investigated in M. aquaticum mesocosms with swine wastewater (SW), 50% diluted swine wastewater (50% SW), and two strengths of synthetic wastewater, 200 mg [Formula: see text] L(-1) (200 [Formula: see text] ) and 400 mg [Formula: see text] L(-1) (400 [Formula: see text] ). During a 28-day incubation period, the average [Formula: see text] and TN removal rates were 99.8% and 94.2% for 50% SW and 99.8% and 93.8% for SW, which were greater than 86.5% and 83.7% for 200 [Formula: see text] , and 73.7% and 74.1% for 400 [Formula: see text] , respectively. A maximum areal total nitrogen (TN) removal rate of 157.8 mg N m(-2) d(-1) was found in M. aquaticum mesocosms with SW. During the incubation period, the observed dynamics of [Formula: see text] concentrations in water and gene copy numbers of ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA), ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB), nirK and nirS in soil unraveled strong nitrification and denitrification processes occurring in M. aquaticum mesocosms with swine wastewater. The N mass balance analysis indicated that plant uptake and soil N accumulation accounted for 17.9-42.2% and 18.0-43.8% of the initial TN load, respectively. The coupled nitrification and denitrification process was calculated to account for, on average, 36.8% and 62.8% of TN removal for 50% SW and SW, respectively. These findings demonstrated that the N uptake by M. aquaticum contributed to a considerable proportion of N removal. In particular, the activities of ammonia-oxidizing and denitrification microbes responsible for nitrification and denitrification processes in M. aquaticum mesocosm accelerated [Formula: see text] and TN removal from swine wastewater.


Discovery of dysregulated circular RNAs in whole blood transcriptomes from cystic fibrosis patients - implication of a role for cellular senescence in cystic fibrosis.
A largely unexplored area of research is the identification and characterization of circular RNA (circRNA) in cystic fibrosis (CF). This study is the first to identify and characterize alterations in circRNA expression in cells lacking CFTR function. The circRNA expression profiles in whole blood transcriptomes from CF patients homozygous for the pathogenetic variant F508delCFTR are compared to healthy controls. We developed a circRNA pipeline called circRNAFlow utilizing Nextflow. Whole blood transcriptomes from CF patients homozygous for the F508delCFTR-variant and healthy controls were utilized as input to circRNAFlow to discover dysregulated circRNA expression in CF samples compared to wild-type controls. Pathway enrichment analyzes were performed to investigate potential functions of dysregulated circRNAs in whole blood transcriptomes from CF samples compared to wild-type controls. A total of 118 dysregulated circRNAs were discovered in whole blood transcriptomes from CF patients homozygous for the F508delCFTR variant compared to healthy controls. 33 circRNAs were up regulated whilst 85 circRNAs were down regulated in CF samples compared to healthy controls. The overrepresented pathways of the host genes harboring dysregulated circRNA in CF samples compared to controls include positive regulation of responses to endoplasmic reticulum stress, intracellular transport, protein serine/threonine kinase activity, phospholipid-translocating ATPase complex, ferroptosis and cellular senescence. These enriched pathways corroborate the role of dysregulated cellular senescence in CF. This study highlights the underexplored roles of circRNAs in CF with a perspective to provide a more complete molecular characterization of CF.