Untreated depression and hippocampal volume loss.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of antidepressant treatment on hippocampal volumes in patients with major depression. For 38 female outpatients, the total time each had been in a depressive episode was divided into days during which the patient was receiving antidepressant medication and days during which no antidepressant treatment was received. Hippocampal gray matter volumes were determined by high resolution magnetic resonance imaging and unbiased stereological measurement. Longer durations during which depressive episodes went untreated with antidepressant medication were associated with reductions in hippocampal volume. There was no significant relationship between hippocampal volume loss and time depressed while taking antidepressant medication or with lifetime exposure to antidepressants. Antidepressants may have a neuroprotective effect during depression.


Misdiagnosis of interstitial pregnancy followed by uterine cornual rupture during induced midtrimester abortion.
We present a case of interstitial pregnancy causing uterine cornual rupture during induction of prostaglandin midtrimester abortion. As the clinical and ultrasonographic diagnosis of advanced ectopic gestation may be difficult, the possibility of ectopic pregnancy should be considered in cases of unsuccessful attempts of induced abortion.


Effects of high dose of anisodamine on the respiratory function of patients with traumatic acute lung injury.
The objective of this study is to observe the effects of high dose of anisodamine in the respiratory function of patients with acute lung injury (ALI) induced by trauma. Fifty cases of patients with complicated ALI after trauma were randomly divided into the anisodamine treatment group (n = 26) and the conventional treatment group (n = 24). Intravenous injection of high dose of anisodamine was administrated in the anisodamine treatment group on the basis of conventional treatment. Acute lung injury scores, oxygenation index, PaO2, respiratory mechanic index, mechanical ventilation time, and the occurrence of adverse reactions in the two groups were observed. Acute lung injury scores and respiratory parameters were all significantly improved in the two groups of patients after the treatment (P < 0.05); compared with the conventional treatment group, the improvements of respiratory function in the anisodamine treatment group were more obvious (P < 0.05), the mechanical ventilation time was shorter (P < 0.05), and there was no significant adverse reaction. In conclusion, high dose of anisodamine contributed to improve the respiratory function of the patients with traumatic ALI.


[Secondarily infected pneumatocele, eosinophilia and excess production of IgE manifesting as Buckley's syndrome in an adult].
The hyper IgE syndrome develops in childhood and leads to repeated infectious episodes, usually of staphylococcus aureus origin and affecting mainly the skin and pulmonary parenchyma. It may be associated with a predominantly facial atypical dermatitis and more rarely with allergic manifestations. Biological tests show mainly an eosinophilia and a hypergammaglobulinemia E alone without modifications in other immunoglobulin types. Disorders of neutrophil and monocyte chemotaxis are inconstant findings. The initial mechanism of the affection appears related to a deficit in suppressive T function selectively acting on the IgE isotype.


Research on electromagnetic characteristics of traction motor rotary shafts with variable parameter defects based on finite element method.
In view of the breakage of the rotary shaft of the traction motor of the locomotive, in order to ensure the reliability and safety of the equipment, this paper studies the magnetic field containing rich information in the space around the rotary shaft, so that the crack defect can be detected and the crack size can be judged in time. In order to study the influence of defect geometric parameters (width, depth and hidden depth) on the spatial magnetic field distribution around the defect in the process of eddy current testing of metal shafts, based on the principle of eddy current testing, a metal rotary shaft detection model with different defect parameters was established by COMSOL software for simulation. The horizontal magnetic induction intensity, vertical magnetic induction intensity and their respective phases are used to analyze the magnetic field distribution around the defect under different parameters. The results show that the magnetic field related parameters can qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the crack width, qualitatively evaluate the relative size of the crack depth, and qualitatively judge whether there are hidden cracks.


Brain Rewarding Stimulation Reduces Extracellular Glutamate Through Glial Modulation in Medial Prefrontal Cortex of Rats.
Growing evidence implicates a critical involvement of prefrontal glial modulation of extracellular glutamate (GLU) in aversive behaviors. However, nothing is known about whether prefrontal glial cells modulate GLU levels in rewarding behaviors. To address this question, we measured GLU efflux in the medial prefrontal cortex (PFC) of rats associated with rewarding behaviors. We used intracranial self-stimulation (ICSS) of the medial forebrain bundle (MFB) as the rewarding behavior. GLU was indirectly measured using microdialysis combined with on-line fluorometric detection of NADH resulting from the reaction of GLU and NAD(+) catalyzed by GLU dehydrogenase with a time resolution of 1 min. ICSS caused a minute-by-minute change of extracellular GLU in the medial PFC, with a slight decrease during the stimulation, followed by an increase afterward. This bidirectional change was tetrodotoxin insensitive and abolished by the gliotoxin fluorocitrate. To confirm and extend the previous studies of aversion-induced increase of extracellular GLU in the medial PFC, we also measured prefrontal GLU efflux associated with an aversive stimulation, immobilization stress. The temporal change in extracellular GLU caused by this stress was markedly different from that observed during ICSS. A rapid increase in GLU was detected during the aversive stimulation, followed by a large increase afterward. This bimodal change was tetrodotoxin insensitive, similar to that detected for ICSS. These findings indicate a bidirectional regulation of extracellular GLU by prefrontal glial cells associated with rat ICSS behavior, and reveal that glial modulation of GLU neurochemistry in the medial PFC contributes to rewarding as well as aversive behaviors in rats.


Initial Development of Pragmatic Behavioral Activation Fidelity Assessments.
Our goal was to develop brief pragmatic assessments of Behavioral Activation (BA) fidelity to support its dissemination in low-resource settings. We used qualitative and quantitative methods across three investigations to develop pragmatic assessments rated from the perspective of therapists, patients, and observers: (1) we developed an initial comprehensive pool of 119 items and adapted/refined the item pool to 32 items through stakeholder focus groups and cognitive interviews; (2) independent blind judges rated each of items in the refined item pool on an early session of BA for 64 patients to support the selection of items based on predictive validity; and (3) we conducted a preliminary evaluation of the acceptability and feasibility of the assessments of BA fidelity from the perspective of therapists and patients. The internal consistency reliability for the 10-item total score was .83 rated from the perspective of independent observers. The assessment was completed by patients following 90% of sessions and by clinicians following 93% of sessions. Items were rated high on overall satisfaction by both therapists (M = 4.6, SD = 0.89) and patients (M = 4.8, SD = 0.41). Our findings suggest that these brief assessments of BA fidelity are reliable, feasible, and acceptable to community stakeholders.


Postnatal exposure to the beta-adrenoceptor agonist clenbuterol has regionally selective direct and long-term effects on rat brain beta-adrenoceptors and monoamine metabolism.
The effects of chronic postnatal beta 2-adrenoceptor activation on the maturation of the rat brain noradrenergic system have been studied. For that purpose, rat pups have been treated twice daily during the first 10 days of life with the beta 2-agonist clenbuterol-HCl (2.5 mg/kg s.c.), and the effects on the beta-adrenoceptor number and monoamine metabolism have been determined directly after the treatment and in adulthood. On postnatal day 10, 90 min after the last clenbuterol injection 4.5 micrograms/g of the drug was present in the brain. At the end of the treatment the beta-receptor binding had decreased in the cerebellum (35%), but not in the frontal cortex or mesolimbic system. Clenbuterol significantly increased the steady-state brain levels of noradrenaline (NA) in the striatum 90 min after the last injection, whereas the levels in the frontal cortex, meso-limbic system, medulla pons and cerebellum were unaffected. The NA metabolite 3-methoxy-4-hydroxyphenylglycol (MHPG), had significantly increased in the frontal cortex and striatum. The serotonergic (5-HT) and dopaminergic (DA) system were not altered. In general, no long-lasting effects on beta-adrenoceptor number and affinity or monoamine metabolism were measurable, except for the frontal cortex which showed a sustained increase of MHPG, a decrease of 5-HT and an increase of 5-HIAA/5-HT on PN 60. In conclusion, chronic postnatal activation of beta 2-adrenoceptors by clenbuterol treatment selectively causes changes in the setting of the neurochemical parameters investigated in the frontal cortex.


FBN1 mutation in Chinese patients with Marfan syndrome and its gene diagnosis using haplotype linkage analysis.
To analyze the FBN1 mutations in Chinese patients with Marfan syndrome (MFS) and to make a genetic diagnosis based on haplotype linkage analysis for MFS. Nine MFS families (17 patients) were analyzed with single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and sequencing. Four primers were designed for the flanking sequences of FBN1 gene and used for haplotype-segregation analysis of MFS(B). SSCP band alteration was detected in the PCR products for exon 25 in MFS(A) II:1. Direct sequencing revealed a small 13 bp deletion; the deleted sequence is gccTc Tgcaccca at bases 3243-3456 of the cDNA in exon 25. This mutation was novel. MFS(B) families were analyzed using the haplotype linkage technique. The data suggested that MFS(B) families were linked to the FBN1 gene. The proband's daughter was an asymptomatic patient. The combination of mutation detection and chromosome haplotype analysis can provide better evidence for a genetic diagnosis of MFS.


Assessment of residual urine volume during routine cystography and urography.
The residual urine volume after voiding was measured by a modified cardiac formula in patients who were examined by means of voiding cystography. The reliability of the formula was tested in an experimental situation. A high degree of accuracy in correlating computed volumes with instilled volumes was found.


Trait-based responses to cessation of nutrient enrichment in a tundra plant community.
Plant communities worldwide show varied responses to nutrient enrichment-including shifts in species identity, decreased diversity, and changes in functional trait composition-but the factors determining community recovery after the cessation of nutrient addition remain uncertain. We manipulated nutrient levels in a tundra community for 6 years of nutrient addition followed by 8 years of recovery. We examined how community recovery was mediated by traits related to plant resource-use strategy and plant ability to modify their environment. Overall, we observed persistent effects of fertilization on plant communities. We found that plants with fast-growing traits, including higher specific leaf area, taller stature and lower foliar C:N, were more likely to show a persistent increase in fertilized plots than control plots, maintaining significantly higher cover in fertilized plots 8 years after cessation of fertilization. Additionally, although graminoids responded most strongly to the initial fertilization treatment, forb species were more vulnerable to fertilization effects in the long-term, showing persistent decline and no recovery in 8 years. Finally, these persistent fertilization effects were accompanied by modified environmental conditions, including persistent increases in litter depth and soil phosphorous and lower soil C:N. Our results demonstrate the potential for lasting effects of nutrient enrichment in nutrient-limited systems and identify species traits related to rapid growth and nutrient-use efficiency as the main predictors of the persistence of nutrient enrichment effects. These findings highlight the usefulness of trait-based approach for understanding the persistent feedbacks of nutrient enrichment, plant dynamics, and niche construction via litter and nutrient build-up.


The paradigm of tumor shrinkage and rapid liver remnant hypertrophy for conversion of initially unresectable colorectal liver metastasis: a case report and literature review.
For colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) patients, hepatic resection is currently the sole cure offering the chance of long-term survival. Tumor shrinkage and planned liver remnant hypertrophy are the two key strategies for conversion of initially unresectable CRLM. First conducted in 2012, associated liver partition and portal vein ligation for staged hepatectomy (ALPPS) allows rapid liver growth. As a means to induce hypertrophy, portal vein embolization (PVE) has been widely applied before extending hepatectomy. Recently, Peng et al. present a new approach of terminal branches portal vein embolization (TBPVE), offering an efficient way to amplify FLR and making chances for surgery in 2 weeks. We reported a 61-year-old woman with synchronous hepatic metastasized carcinoma of the colon sigmoideum underwent TBPVE after 6 cycles of neoadjuvant therapy in order to perform a planned right trisectionectomy. Rapid liver remnant hypertrophy and remarkable tumor shrinkage were achieved, and laparoscopic sigmoidectomy and right trisectionectomy were successfully performed. The postsurgical course was uneventful and 7 months of recurrence-free survival have been witnessed. The dual tactics of tumor shrinkage and planned rapid liver remnant hypertrophy will make concerted efforts to further increase the clinical candidacy for curative resection, which are valuable for further investigation.


Spatial analysis of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and toxicology using mass spectrometry imaging.
Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) is emerging as a powerful analytical tool for detection, quantification, and simultaneous spatial molecular imaging of endogenous and exogenous molecules via in situ mass spectrometry analysis of thin tissue sections without the requirement of chemical labeling. The MSI generates chemically specific and spatially resolved ion distribution information for administered drugs and metabolites, which allows numerous applications for studies involving various stages of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET). MSI-based pharmacokinetic imaging analysis provides a histological context and cellular environment regarding dynamic drug distribution and metabolism processes, and facilitates the understanding of the spatial pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamic properties of drugs. Herein, we discuss the MSI's current technological developments that offer qualitative, quantitative, and spatial location information of small molecule drugs, antibody, and oligonucleotides macromolecule drugs, and their metabolites in preclinical and clinical tissue specimens. We highlight the macro and micro drug-distribution in the whole-body, brain, lung, liver, kidney, stomach, intestine tissue sections, organoids, and the latest applications of MSI in pharmaceutical ADMET studies.


An accurate determination of human growth hormone content in different pituitary extracts, using a radioimmunoassay with polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis as a bound-free separation system.
Human growth hormone was extrated and purified according to the method of Roos et al. (Roos, P., Fevold, H.R. and Gemzell, C.A. (1963) Biochim. Biophys. Acta 74, 525). A first control of its purification and integrity was performed through molecular weight determination by gel filtration on Sephadex G-100 and on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). Its biological activity was confirmed by the growth promoted in non-hypophysectomized rats at plateau. The main object, however, was the setting up of accurate, reproducible method tha could furnish the more absolute and comparable values of radioimmunoassayable HGH content in perfect agreement with the results obtained by other laboratories. This was accomplished through a radioimmunoassay system that uses HGH labelled with 125I, where separation of the bound from the free antigen is achieved on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, by a modification introduced in the original method of Davis. The resulting values, extremely close to that stated by the KABI-Laboratories (Stockolm), though obtained in quite different conditions of incubation, antibody concentration and with no use of second antibody, represent a confident approach to a comparable measure of this hormone in extracts, which can also be applied to plasma determinations.


Ca(2+)-regulated cyclic electron flow supplies ATP for nitrogen starvation-induced lipid biosynthesis in green alga.
We previously showed that both the linear photosynthetic electron transportation rate and the respiration rate dropped significantly during N starvation-induced neutral lipid accumulation in an oil-producing microalga, Chlorella sorokiniana, and proposed a possible role for cyclic electron flow (CEF) in ATP supply. In this study, we further exploited this hypothesis in both Chlorella sorokiniana C3 and the model green alga Chlamydomonas. We found that both the rate of CEF around photosystem I and the activity of thylakoid membrane-located ATP synthetase increased significantly during N starvation to drive ATP production. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the Chlamydomonas mutant pgrl1, which is deficient in PGRL1-mediated CEF, accumulated less neutral lipids and had reduced rates of CEF under N starvation. Further analysis revealed that Ca(2+) signaling regulates N starvation-induced neutral lipid biosynthesis in Chlamydomonas by increasing calmodulin activity and boosting the expression of the calcium sensor protein that regulates Pgrl1-mediated CEF. Thus, Ca(2+)-regulated CEF supplies ATP for N starvation-induced lipid biosynthesis in green alga. The increased CEF may re-equilibrate the ATP/NADPH balance and recycle excess light energy in photosystems to prevent photooxidative damage, suggesting Ca(2+)-regulated CEF also played a key role in protecting and sustaining photosystems.


Spectrophotometric analysis of some guanidino drugs by acid-dye and charge-transfer complexation methods.
Two spectrophotometric methods are described for the determination of guanethidine sulphate (I), guanfacine hydrochloride (II), guanoclor sulphate (III), guanoxan sulphate (IV) and debrisoquine sulphate (V). The first method involves ion-pair formation of the selected compounds (I-V) with bromocresol purple at pH 3.8. The yellow ion pair is extracted with chloroform and the absorbance is measured at about 415 nm. The second method is based on the reaction of the basic guanidino compounds (I, III-V) with iodine in chloroform to give molecular charge-transfer complexes with maximum absorbance at 292 and 345 nm. Beer's law was obeyed for both methods and the relative standard deviations were found to be less than 2%. The apparent molar absorptivities were found to be 2.1 x 10(4) to 6.9 x 10(4) l mol-1 cm-1 using bromocresol purple and 0.7 x 10(4) to 2.4 x 10(4) l mol-1 cm-1 using iodine. The investigated drugs were assayed in tablets. The mean percentage recoveries were found to be 99.8-100.8% by the acid-dye method and around 100.4% by the charge-transfer complexation method.


Removal of microcystins from water and primary treatment technologies - A comprehensive understanding based on bibliometric and content analysis, 1991-2020.
Microcystins are a group of heptapeptide hepatotoxins produced by a variety of algae and are frequently detected in aquatic ecosystems, posing a global threat to ecological stability and human health. However, it is difficult to eliminate them completely and innocuously from water by conventional water treatment processes. This study comprehensively evaluated a total of 821 original articles retrieved from the Web of Science (1991-2020) about the removal of microcystins using bibliometric and content analysis to provide a qualitative and quantitative research landscape and a global view of research hotspots and future research directions. Furthermore, the primary and promising treatment technologies for microcystin pollution were also summarized and discussed. The results indicated an urgent practical demand to remediate microcystin pollution according to the increasing number of publications since 2005. China had the highest number of publications, whereas the United States was the core country in the international collaboration network. The Chinese Academy of Sciences and University of Cincinnati showed their leading positions considering article amounts and academic cooperation. Dionysiou DD contributed the most articles, and Carmichael WW had the highest number of co-citations. Three treatment technologies, including biodegradation, chemical oxidation and adsorption, were the major strategies to remediate the pollution of microcystins in water. In addition, the toxicity of toxins/their metabolites, degradation kinetics, and elimination mechanism were also important research contents. Bacterial degradation, photocatalytic degradation, and multiple-technologies approach have been identified with great potential and should be given more attention in future studies. This work summarizes the current research status on microcystin management, provides a valuable reference for researchers to identify potential opportunities for collaboration in related fields, and guides future research directions to inter-disciplinary and multi-perspective approaches.


Corticotropin-releasing factor is contained within perikarya and nerve fibres of rat duodenum.
Immunofluorescence microscopic studies revealed a corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) staining within both myenteric plexus perikarya and nerve fibres of the rat duodenum. A CRF-immunofluorescence could be visualized also within nerve fibres close associated with myenteric and submucous blood vessels. Even the lamina propria contained CRF-immunoreactive nerve fibres, which were obviously often localized near the basal lamina.


Analysis of volatile organic compounds released from human lung cancer cells and from the urine of tumor-bearing mice.
A potential strategy for the diagnosis of lung cancer is to exploit the distinct metabolic signature of this disease by way of biomarkers found in different sample types. In this study, we investigated whether specific volatile organic compounds (VOCs) could be detected in the culture medium of the lung cancer cell line A549 in addition to the urine of mice implanted with A549 cells. Several VOCs were found at significantly increased or decreased concentrations in the headspace of the A549 cell culture medium as compared with the culture medium of two normal lung cell lines. We also analyzed the urine of mice implanted with A549 cells and several VOCs were also found to be significantly increased or decreased relative to urine obtained from control mice. It was also revealed that seven VOCs were found at increased concentrations in both sample types. These compounds were found to be dimethyl succinate, 2-pentanone, phenol, 2-methylpyrazine, 2-hexanone, 2-butanone and acetophenone. Both sample types produce distinct biomarker profiles, and VOCs have potential to distinguish between true- and false-positive screens for lung cancer.


[Primary structure of the full-length DNA copy of the influenza virus A/Kiev/59/79 (H1N1) PB2 gene].
The complete nucleotide sequence of a cloned full-length DNA copy of the A/Kiev/59/79 (H1N1) influenza virus PB2 gene has been determined. This strain is shown to be the natural reassortant which inherited its NP and PB2 genes from the contemporary H3N2 influenza strains.


Percutaneous renal artery embolization of nonfunctioning allograft: preliminary experience.
Percutaneous renal artery embolization has been introduced as an alternative to nephrectomy for patients with a nonfunctioning allograft and Graft Intolerance Syndrome. The symptoms resulting from this syndrome include fever, local pain, hypertension, and hematuria. From April 2003 to October 2003, 5 patients were treated with this technique. The intraparenchymal renal arteries were embolized by injection of calibrated tris-acryl gelatin microspheres of increasing size (from 100-330 to 700-900 microm) and completed with the insertion of 5-mm-8-mm steel coils in the renal artery. The procedure was well tolerated in all cases; no major complications occurred. In 3 patients, the symptoms disappeared immediately. In 1 patient, it was necessary to perform a second embolization due to collateral circulation developing from a lumbar artery; this further procedure resolved the symptoms. In the last case, the patient underwent nephrectomy because of septic fever. In conclusion, patients with this syndrome refractory to medical treatment may be treated by the effective and minimally invasive procedures of percutaneous allograft artery embolization with no significant short-term or late complications.


Disease activity and pretreatment, rather than hypogammaglobulinaemia, are major risk factors for infectious complications in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia.
To identify patients at high risk of life-threatening infections, we retrospectively analysed the prevalence of infectious complications in 187 chronic lymphocytic leukaemia patients treated in our institution since 1999 and correlated them with clinical features. A questionnaire with detailed questions regarding infectious complications was mailed to patients and their general practitioners. Major infections (requiring intravenous antibiotics or inpatient treatment) were reported in 37 patients (19.8%) and minor infections (requiring oral antibiotics and outpatient treatment) in 113 patients (60.4%). Univariate analysis identified advanced disease (P = 0.02), gender (P = 0.01), duration of disease (P = 0.007), number of previous chemotherapy regimens (P < 0.001), previous therapy with purine analogues and monoclonal antibodies (P < 0.001; P = 0.019), massive splenomegaly (P = 0.03), low granulocyte count (P < 0.001), low serum immunoglobulin concentration (P = 0.005), low haemoglobin concentration (P < 0.001) and high serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) concentration (P < 0.001) as risk factors for major infections. In multivariable logistic regression analysis, only the number of previous chemotherapy regimens (risk ratio [RR] = 1.8; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2-8.0) and haemoglobin concentration (RR = 0.6; CI 0.5-0.8) remained significant for major infections. The number of previous chemotherapy regimens was the only independent risk factor for minor (RR = 7.6; CI 2.2-25.7) and varicella-zoster virus infections (RR = 2.1; CI 1.3-3.4). In untreated patients, the only risk factor for major infections was LDH concentration. Patients treated with purine analogues or autologous stem cell transplantation had a higher risk of developing viral infections. In conclusion, disease activity and pretreatment extent have a stronger impact on the risk of severe infectious complications than hypogammaglobulinaemia. Preferably, prophylactic strategies should be evaluated in patients defined by these parameters.


Red algae (Gelidium amansii) hot-water extract ameliorates lipid metabolism in hamsters fed a high-fat diet.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Gelidium amansii (GA) hot-water extracts (GHE) on lipid metabolism in hamsters. Six-week-old male Syrian hamsters were used as the experimental animals. Hamsters were divided into four groups: (1) control diet group (CON); (2) high-fat diet group (HF); (3) HF with GHE diet group (HF + GHE); (4) HF with probucol diet group (HF + PO). All groups were fed the experimental diets and drinking water ad libitum for 6 weeks. The results showed that GHE significantly decreased body weight, liver weight, and adipose tissue (perirenal and paraepididymal) weight. The HF diet induced an increase in plasma triacylglycerol (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. However, GHE supplementation reversed the increase of plasma lipids caused by the HF diet. In addition, GHE increased fecal cholesterol, TG and bile acid excretion. Lower hepatic TC and TG levels were found with GHE treatment. GHE reduced hepatic sterol regulatory element-binding proteins (SREBP) including SREBP 1 and SREBP 2 protein expressions. The phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) protein expression in hamsters was decreased by the HF diet; however, GHE supplementation increased the phosphorylation of AMPK protein expression. Our results suggest that GHE may ameliorate lipid metabolism in hamsters fed a HF diet.


Efficient in vitro and in vivo expression of covalently modified plasmid DNA.
The tracking of plasmid DNA (pDNA) movement within cells requires the attachment of labels to the DNA in a manner such that: (a) the pDNA remains intact during the labeling process and (b) the labels remain stably attached to the DNA. Keeping these two criteria in mind, we have recently developed a series of alkylating reagents that facilitate the one-step, covalent attachment of compounds directly onto nucleic acids in a nondestructive manner. Using these DNA-alkylating reagents, we have attached a wide range of both fluorescent and nonfluorescent reporter molecules onto pDNAs. We now show that even with the covalent attachment of various marker compounds, the pDNA remains expression competent. The ability to create labeled, expression-competent DNA allows for the simultaneous tracking of both pDNA location and reporter gene expression within living or fixed cells.


Selecting medical students for academic and attitudinal outcomes in a Catholic medical school.
To evaluate whether the four criteria used by the University of Notre Dame Australia (UNDA) to select medical students are successful in selecting for graduates with the desired outcomes of academic excellence and Catholic "mission fit". Prospective cohort study of medical students selected for 2008 and 2009 entry to UNDA in Sydney, New South Wales. The statistical association between the two academic selection criteria of the Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) and grade point average (GPA) compared with the outcome of medical school examination performance, and the two mission selection criteria of a portfolio score and interview score compared with the outcome of a positive attitude towards serving underserved communities as measured using the Medical Student Attitudes Toward the Underserved (MSATU) test. A total of 223 students were enrolled. GAMSAT section 3, GPA and the interview scores were significantly positively associated with academic performance (P < 0.05). However, none of the selection variables were significantly associated with a positive attitude towards serving underserved communities, as measured by the MSATU score. None of the four selection tools used were significantly associated with medical students who had a positive attitude towards serving underserved communities.


The role of third-generation beta-blocking agents in chronic heart failure.
Third-generation beta-blocking agents developed for the hypertension market are proving useful in the treatment of chronic heart failure (HF). These compounds share the ancillary property of vasodilation, which improves acute tolerability by unloading the failing left ventricle at a time when beta-adrenergic withdrawal produces myocardial depression. In the case of carvedilol and bucindolol, this allows for the administration of nonselective beta blockade. Because of blockade of both beta 1 and beta 2 adrenergic receptors as well as other properties, these compounds possess a more comprehensive antiadrenergic profile than second-generation, beta 1-selective compounds. For this and potentially other reasons, third-generation beta-blocking agents have theoretical efficacy advantages that have yet to be demonstrated in large-scale trials. Ongoing trials with either second- or third-generation compounds and one trial directly comparing a compound from each class will provide the answer as to whether third-generation compounds have an advantage in the treatment of chronic HF.


Adverse events in spine surgery: a prospective analysis at a large tertiary center in Germany.
Prospective study OBJECTIVES: The occurrence of adverse events (AEs) during surgery is a major cause of increased economic costs, disability, or even death. This study aimed to prospectively identify and quantify AEs in patients undergoing spinal surgery at a neurosurgical tertiary care hospital. Patients who underwent spinal surgery and were discharged between January 2019 and December 2022 were enrolled prospectively. Each patient underwent a peer-reviewed AE evaluation at discharge. An AE was defined as any event that occurred up to 30 days postoperatively and resulted in an undesirable outcome. Patients were allocated to four groups according to spinal pathology (degenerative, oncologic, traumatic, and infectious). During the study period, 1778 patients with a mean age of 55.4 ± 10.5 years underwent surgery. Elective surgery was performed in 90.8% (1615/1778) of patients, while emergency surgery was performed in 9.2% (163/1778). The overall rate of surgery-related AEs was relatively low (8.7%). Degenerative pathologies were the most frequent reasons for surgery (78.5%, 1396/1778). Wound infection was the most prevalent AE in patients with degenerative diseases (1.4%), of which 1.1% required revision surgery. Wound infection, dural leakage, and new neurological deficits had the same prevalence (2.1%) in patients with spinal tumors. Among patients with spinal trauma, two presented with postoperative epidural bleeding and underwent emergency surgery. Postoperative wound infection was the most prevalent AE in this group (9.5%), with 7.0% of affected patients requiring revision surgery. The overall rate of non-surgery-related AEs was 4.3%, and the overall mortality rate was low (0.4%). AEs in spinal surgery remained low, with a prevalence of 8.7%. Documentation of AEs as part of clinical routine may be a key tool for identifying the occurrence of surgery-related and non-surgery-related AEs.


Kinetics of delayed chlorophyll a fluorescence registered in milliseconds time range.
Delayed fluorescence dark decays in the time interval from 0.35 to 5.5 ms are measured during dark to light adaptation in whole barley leaves and isolated thylakoid membranes, using a disc phosphoroscope. The changes in delayed fluorescence features are compared with variable chlorophyll fluorescence simultaneously registered with the same apparatus as well as in parallel by Handy PEA (Hansatech Instruments Ltd.), and absorbance changes at 820 nm. The registered delayed fluorescence signal is a sum of three components - submillisecond with lifetime of about 0.6 ms, millisecond decayed 2-4 ms and slow component with lifetime > >5.5 ms. The submillisecond delayed fluorescence component is proposed to be a result of radiative charge recombination in Photosystem II reaction centers in the state Z+PQA -QB -, and its lifetime is determined by the rate of electron transfer from QA - to QB -. The millisecond delayed fluorescence component is associated with recombination in Z+PQA -QB = centers with a lifetime determined by the sum of the rate constants of electron transfer from the oxygen-evolving complex to Z+ and of the exchange between the reduced and oxidized plastoquinone pool in the QB-site. On the basis of these assumptions and of the different share of the three components in the integral delayed fluorescence during induction, an attempt has been made to interpret the changes in the delayed fluorescence intensity during the transition of the photosynthetic apparatus from dark to light adapted state.


Preparation, characterization and photocatalytic activities of holmium-doped titanium dioxide nanoparticles.
Holmium-doped TiO2 nanoparticles with high photocatalytic activities were prepared by sol-gel method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and surface area measurement by nitrogen adsorption in this study. Experimental results indicated holmium doping could increase the surface area of TiO2 nanoparticles, and inhibit the growth of crystalline size and the anatase-to-rutile phase transformation. The results of photodegrading methyl orange showed holmium doping improved the photocatalytic activity of TiO2, and the reasons could be attributed to the synergetic effects of large surface areas, small crystallite size, lattice distortion and more charge imbalance of holmium-doped TiO2. In our experiment, the optimal doped amount was 0.3mol.% for the maximum photocatalytic degradation ratio when holmium-doped TiO2 was calcined at 500 degrees C, and the optimal calcined temperature was 600 degrees C when the doped amount was 0.5mol.%.


Can forensic science learn from the COVID-19 crisis?
This paper draws parallels between the current COVID-19 crisis and the apparent forensic science crisis. It investigates if shared approaches of the problem and solutions could emerge. Some relevant aspects of the medical system as it reacted to the pandemic crisis and the situation in forensic science are presented. Further, three main stages of the COVID-19 crisis and its impact on individuals and society are proposed, highlighting similarities to the effects of forensic science. Finally, some lessons from COVID-19 for forensic science are identified and discussed. It is concluded that forensic science's best assurance to address current and future challenges, particularly in an increasingly digital environment, remains a sound scientific approach, including critical thinking and inter-disciplinary collaborations.


The burden of invasive pneumococcal disease and the potential for reduction by immunisation.
Streptococcus pneumoniae causes invasive disease world-wide and in all age groups. The reported incidence varies geographically and is increased in certain population groups. The incidence is highest in children less than 2 years and is also increased in the elderly. Mortality remains substantial even in the developed world despite appropriate antimicrobial therapy. The emergence of penicillin-resistant pneumococci highlights the importance of immunisation as a means to prevent disease. This review discusses the burden of invasive pneumococcal disease, identifies high-risk patients and analyses evidence for vaccine efficacy and cost-effectiveness.


The passive permeability properties of in vivo perfused rat jejunum.
The polarity of the microvillus membrane of rat and rabbit jejunum, determined in vitro by the incremental free energy changes associated with the addition of -CH2 groups to fatty acids or -OH groups to bile acids, has been found to be more polar than other biological membranes. The reason for the difference in polarity is unexplained but could be due to artifacts caused by the in vitro conditions. In the current studies the apparent permeability coefficients were determined for a homologous series of fatty acids and bile acids in in vivo perfused rat jejunum. The true permeability coefficients were derived by correction for diffusion barrier resistance. The incremental free energy changes associated with the addition of a -CH2 group to a fatty acid and a -OH group to a bile acid were -619 and +2069 cal/mol, respectively. These values correspond to values determined in other biological membranes such as erythrocytes and adipocytes. Thus, the rat microvillus membrane is more nonpolar than previously observed in vitro. The reason for the discrepancy between the in vivo and in vitro results is most likely due to an underestimation of the permeability coefficients in the in vitro studies.


Myelin basic protein and multiple sclerosis.
Myelin basic protein (BP) has the capacity to induce experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) in animals as well as to prevent and suppress EAE. Immunoreactive BP or BP fragments appear in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in persons with multiple sclerosis in acute disease periods and in individuals with acute damage to central nervous system myelin. Humoral and cellular immune responses, especially in the CSF, may occur but are of uncertain effect in the etiology and pathogenesis of MS. Attempts to use BP to suppress MS have disclosed no therapeutic benefit.


Characterization of the lipidomic profile of BmN cells in response to Bombyx mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus infection.
Bombyx mori cytoplasmic polyhedrosis virus (BmCPV)that belongs to the genus Cypovirus in the family of Reoviridae is one of the problematic pathogens in sericulture. In our previous study, we have found that lipid-related constituents in the host cellular membrane are associated with the BmCPV life cycle. It is important to note that the lipids not only affect the cellular biological processes, they also impact the virus life cycle. However, the intracellular lipid homeostasis in BmN cells after BmCPV infection remains unclear. Here, the lipid metabolism in BmCPV-infected BmN cells was studied by lipidomics analysis. Our results revealed that the intracellular lipid homeostasis was disturbed in BmN cells upon BmCPV infection. Major lipids constituents in cellular membrane were found to be significantly induced upon BmCPV infection, which included triglycerides, phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, sphingomyelin, phospholipids, glucoside ceramide, monoetherphosphatidylcholin, ceramide, ceramide phosphoethanolamine and cardiolipin. Further analysis of the pathways related to these altered lipids (such as PE and PC) showed that glycerophospholipid metabolism was one of the most enriched pathways. These results suggested that BmCPV may manipulate the lipid metabolism of cells for their own interest. The findings may facilitate a better understanding of the roles of lipid metabolic changes during virus infection in future studies.


Cellular and Biochemical Analysis of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid from Murine Lungs.
Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a technique used to collect the contents of the airways. The fluid recovered, called BAL fluid (BALF), serves as a dynamic tool to identify various disease pathologies ranging from asthma to infectious diseases to cancer in the lungs. A wide array of tests can be performed with BALF, including total and differential leukocyte counts (DLC), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) or flow-cytometric quantitation of inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, chemokines and adhesion molecules, and assessment of nitrate and nitrite content for estimation of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity. Here, we describe a detailed procedure for the collection of BALF for a variety of downstream usages, including DLC by cytological and flow-cytometry-based methods, multiplex cytokine analysis by flow cytometry, and NOS activity analysis by determining nitrate and nitrite levels.


Complications of flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy. A conceptual approach.
This paper presents an overview of the potential risks associated with the use of the flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscope. A reasonable review of the literature on endoscopy reveals few instances of admitted complications. We draw upon a decade of personal observations and experience with over 10,000 examinations to substantiate the actual and potential hazards of flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy. A conceptual approach to recognizing and avoiding the consequences of complications is presented.


Overexpression of ginseng cytochrome P450 CYP736A12 alters plant growth and confers phenylurea herbicide tolerance in Arabidopsis.
Cytochrome P450 enzymes catalyze a wide range of reactions in plant metabolism. Besides their physiological functions on primary and secondary metabolites, P450s are also involved in herbicide detoxification via hydroxylation or dealkylation. Ginseng as a perennial plant offers more sustainable solutions to herbicide resistance. Tissue-specific gene expression and differentially modulated transcripts were monitored by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. As a tool to evaluate the function of PgCYP736A12, the 35S promoter was used to overexpress the gene in Arabidopsis. Protein localization was visualized using confocal microscopy by tagging the fluorescent protein. Tolerance to herbicides was analyzed by growing seeds and seedlings on Murashige and Skoog medium containing chlorotoluron. The expression of PgCYP736A12 was three-fold more in leaves compared with other tissues from two-year-old ginseng plants. Transcript levels were similarly upregulated by treatment with abscisic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and NaCl, the highest being with salicylic acid. Jasmonic acid treatment did not alter the mRNA levels of PgCYP736A12. Transgenic lines displayed slightly reduced plant height and were able to tolerate the herbicide chlorotoluron. Reduced stem elongation might be correlated with increased expression of genes involved in bioconversion of gibberellin to inactive forms. PgCYP736A12 protein localized to the cytoplasm and nucleus. PgCYP736A12 does not respond to the well-known secondary metabolite elicitor jasmonic acid, which suggests that it may not function in ginsenoside biosynthesis. Heterologous overexpression of PgCYP736A12 reveals that this gene is actually involved in herbicide metabolism.


Injection of recombinant interleukin 3 hastens worm expulsion in mice infected with Trichinella spiralis.
The effects of interleukin 3 (IL-3) on worm expulsion were studied in mice infected with Trichinella spiralis. C3H/He mice were treated with a total of 10(4) U IL-3 or saline by daily peritoneal injection from day-5 to day-1. Muscle larvae were given orally to both groups of mice on day 0. The muscle worn burden in infected mice was assessed on day 28. The worm burden in mice treated with recombinant IL-3 (rIL-3) was significantly suppressed as compared with that in control mice. A reduction in the worm burden was observed in mice treated with rIL-3 from day-5 to day-1 but not in those treated day 16 to day 20. This suggests that IL-3 could up-regulate the host defense response to intestinal worms but not to parenteral stage worms. When various doses of rIL-3 were given to mice and the intestinal worm burden was assessed on day 5, protection was observed only in mice treated with a total of 10(4) U rIL-3 but not in those given either 3.5 x 10(3) or 10(3) U. A kinetics study on the recovery of intestinal adult worms showed that rIL-3 treatment hastened worm expulsion. The mucosal mast-cell response observed in the small intestine of rIL-3-treated mice was induced earlier and was greater than that seen in the control. The host defense response induced by rIL-3 could not be inhibited by treatment with anti-IL-4 or anti-IL-5 monoclonal antibody. Under such an experimental condition in this study, at least, the numbers of mast cells per villus crypt unit observed in mice treated with rIL-3 and anti-IL-4 antibody were slightly lower than those seen in mice treated with rIL-3, but the difference was not significantly different. These results suggest that IL-3 can induce the expulsion of T. spiralis worms without the cooperation of IL-4 or IL-5 in mice.


Enhancement of isolated airway responses to bronchoconstrictive agonists by the slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis antagonist FPL 55712.
The activity of the SRS-A antagonist FPL 55712 against histamine, carbachol and ion-induced contraction of isolated airway smooth muscle was evaluated. FPL 55712 enhanced responses of guinea-pig trachea and parenchymal lung strips to histamine and carbachol. Enhancement was not obviously related to concentration. It is suggested that this effect may be the result of cyclo-oxygenase inhibition by FPL 55712. These observations may account for some of the anomalous findings regarding the antagonism of leukotrienes by FPL 55712 previously reported.


[Meningioma in pregnancy. Report of a case and review of the literature].
We present a case of a young woman who presented with meningioma and pregnancy association. This neoplasm is not frequent during pregnancy but when this association occurs, the neoplasma has a quickly growth because of the presence of estrogenic receptors. We observed the evolution of the product and the mother during pregnancy and puerperium. We made literature review.


Partial recovery of disturbed V-J pairing profiles of T-cell receptor in people living with HIV receiving long-term antiretroviral therapy.
Chronic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection not only causes a gradual loss of CD4+ T cells but also leads to a disturbance of the T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire. In people living with HIV (PLWH), monitoring TCR repertoire is challenged by the inconsistency of complementarity determining region 3 (CDR3) and limited cell numbers in clinical samples. Thus, a quantitative method is necessary for monitoring the TCR repertoire in PLWH. We characterized the TCR V-J pairing profile of naïve and memory CD4+ T cells in healthy donors, HIV-infected antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve patients and long-term (over 5 years) ART-experienced patients by performing TCR sequencing. We developed a V-J index with 18 parameters which were subdivided into five categories (expression coverage, cumulative percentage of the top tenth percentile, diversity, intra-individual similarity and inter-individual similarity). In ART-naïve patients, 14 of the 18 parameters were significantly altered. Long-term ART recovered ten parameters. The four unrecovered parameters were related to inter-individual similarity. Therefore, these findings indicate that long-term ART could only partially recover TCR V-J pairs and introduce newly impacted V-J pairs. Moreover, these results provide new insights into the V-J pairing of the TCR and into the disturbance of TCR repertoire in HIV infection.


The picture superiority effect in associative recognition.
The picture superiority effect has been well documented in tests of item recognition and recall. The present study shows that the picture superiority effect extends to associative recognition. In three experiments, students studied lists consisting of random pairs of concrete words and pairs of line drawings; then they discriminated between intact (old) and rearranged (new) pairs of words and pictures at test. The discrimination advantage for pictures over words was seen in a greater hit rate for intact picture pairs, but there was no difference in the false alarm rates for the two types of stimuli. That is, there was no mirror effect. The same pattern of results was found when the test pairs consisted of the verbal labels of the pictures shown at study (Experiment 4), indicating that the hit rate advantage for picture pairs represents an encoding benefit. The results have implications for theories of the picture superiority effect and models of associative recognition.


Plasma thymidine kinase 1 activity and outcome of ER+ HER2- metastatic breast cancer patients treated with palbociclib and endocrine therapy.
Previous cohort studies have reported plasma TK1 activity (pTKa) as a potential prognostic biomarker in estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) HER2-negative (HER2-) metastatic breast cancer (MBC). In this prospective study, we report here the prognostic impact of pTKa in ER+/HER2- MBC patients treated with endocrine therapy and CDK4/6 inhibitor. Patients were included into the prospective, ethics committee-approved ALCINA study (NCT02866149). Eligibility criteria were patients with ER+/HER2- MBC treated at Institut Curie with endocrine therapy and palbociclib. Plasma samples were obtained at baseline and after 4 weeks of treatment. pTKa was quantified by the DiviTum® assay (Biovica, Sweden). From May 2016 to August 2018, 103 patients treated with endocrine therapy and palbociclib were included. Patients had received a median of two prior systemic therapies for MBC (range 0-14). Median follow-up was 13.8 months (range 6-31), with median PFS and OS of 9.6 months (95%CI [7.0-11.3]) and 28 months (95%CI [23-not reached]), respectively. Median baseline pTKa was 292 Du/L (range 20-27,312 Du/L, IQR [89-853]). After adjusting for other prognostic factors, baseline pTKa remained an independent prognostic factor for both PFS (HR = 1.3 95%CI [1.1-1.4], p = 0.0005) and OS (HR = 1.3 95%CI [1.2-1.6], p < 0.0001), and 4-week pTKa was associated with OS (HR = 1.6 95%CI [1.3-2], p < 0.0001). That survival prediction was significantly improved by the addition of baseline pTKa to clinicopathological characteristics. Adding pTKa changes at 4 weeks to baseline pTKa did not further increase survival prediction. This study demonstrates the clinical validity of pTKa as a new circulating prognostic marker in ER+/HER2- MBC patients treated with endocrine therapy and palbociclib.


Right pneumothorax following fiberoptic oesophageal dilatation.
A case of spontaneous right pneumothorax following dilatation of an oesophageal stricture using the Eder-Puestow technique is reported.


Developmental features of the brain in preterm and fullterm infants on MR imaging.
Normal development and maturation in pre- and postnatal periods were studied using MR imaging. For this purpose, we performed MR imaging at a postmenstrual age of 37-44 weeks in both low-risk preterm and fullterm infants and assessed the myelination pattern and the dimension of the pituitary gland, corpus callosum, pons and cerebellar vermis. There were no differences in stages of myelination and the size of these structures in both groups. MR imaging was also performed in infants with various cerebral injuries. Focal or diffuse areas of hyperintensity on T2-weighted images and delayed myelination were the commonly observed abnormal findings in these infants.


Environmental Fate and Toxicology of Dimethoate.
The insecticide dimethoate, an organophosphate, was first introduced in 1962 for broad spectrum control of a wide range of insects including mites, flies, aphids, and plant hoppers. It inhibits AChE activity, resulting in nerve damage, which may lead to death. It is considered highly toxic to insects although dimethoate resistance has been observed. Dimethoate has both a low vapor pressure (0.247 mPa) and Henry's law constant (l.42x10(-6) Pa m3/mol), thus volatilization is not a major route of dissipation from either water or moist soils. Photolysis is considered a minor dissipation pathway. However, studies have shown that in the presence of a catalyst, the rate of photolysis does increase. The insecticide has high water solubility (39,800 mg/L) and under alkaline conditions, hydrolysis predominates representing a major degradation pathway. It has a low soil sorption capacity (Koc=20) which varies by soil type and organic matter content. Dimethoate is degraded by microbes under anaerobic conditions and bacterial species have been identified that are capable of using dimethoate as a carbon source. Although many intermediate by-products have been identified by abiotic and biotic processes, the major degradation product is omethoate. Dimethoate has been found to adversely impact many organisms. In plants, photosynthesis and growth are highly impacted, whereas birds exhibit inhibition in brain enzyme activity, thus sublethal effects are apparent. Furthermore, aquatic organisms are expected to be highly impacted via direct exposure, often displaying changes in swimming behavior. Toxicity results include inhibition in growth and more importantly, inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity.


Knowledge structures of scientific production on COVID-19 in the sphere of education: the case of publications indexed in the Web of Science during 2020.
This study seeks to explore the different knowledge structures in the sphere of educational research into COVID-19 during 2020. Using bibliometric methods, analysis was performed of a sample of 308 scientific articles retrieved from the Web of Science database. Using different data analysis techniques combining co-occurrence analysis, co-citation analysis and factorial analysis, All Keywords and Keywords Plus were used to achieve the main research objective: identification of the main themes and trends of production in the sphere of educational research into COVID-19. The main findings of this study in terms of the conceptual structure show that analysis of the centrality and density of the thematic trends points to a generalised structural change in the entire educational system towards methodological teaching-learning procedures oriented towards distance education. As for the intellectual structure, among the host of authors and sources of information involved only a select few have a greater influence on the scientific community. Finally, in terms of social structure, there is limited collaboration between authors and institutions from different countries. However, this collaboration is more intense within countries themselves and in terms of their own production, with the USA being the country with the strongest links.


A hybrid approach to mid-shaft clavicle fixation.
The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the strength characteristics of a hybrid uni-cortical construct for clavicle fixation. The technique reported aims to combine benefits of uni-cortical fixation with stability comparable to traditional bi-cortical fixation. The approach utilises long, oblique uni-cortical screws at the distal ends of the plate acting as surrogate bi-cortical screws. Locked uni-cortical screws positioned centrally provide bending and torsion strength to the construct. This alternative hybrid uni-cortical technique does not require far cortex screw or drill penetration required in bi-cortical fixation techniques, thus avoiding potentially catastrophic vascular and or neurologic injury. The purpose of this study was to compare the mechanical behaviour of the hybrid uni-cortical construct to standard bi-cortical fixations under both torsion and bending loads. Thirty osteotomized human cadaveric clavicles were randomly allocated to three surgical fixation techniques: bi-cortical locked screw fixation, bi-cortical non-locked screw fixation and hybrid uni-cortical screw fixation. Each clavicle construct was tested non-destructively under torsional loading, and then under cantilever bending to failure. Construct bending and torsional stiffness, as well as ultimate failure strength, were measured. There were no significant differences between uni-cortical or bi-cortical fixation constructs in either bending stiffness or ultimate bending moment (p>0.05); however, there was a trend towards greater bending stiffness in the hybrid construct. The uni-cortical hybrid fixation technique displayed a significantly lower mean torsional stiffness value when compared with the bi-cortical locked screw fixation (mean difference: 134.4 Nmm/degrees, 95% confidence interval [32.3, 236.4], p=0.007). A hybrid uni-cortical approach to clavicle plate fixation that may improve screw purchase and reduce risk of intra-operative vascular damage demonstrates comparable bending strength to current bi-cortical approaches.


Retinoids: a review.
The retinoids are synthetic derivatives of vitamin A. Isotretinoin (13-cis-retinoic acid) is now being widely used in the United States for severe acne and etretinate is available in Europe and other countries for psoriasis. These drugs are also effective for a number of other skin diseases. This is an attempt to review basic knowledge of retinoids with which the practicing dermatologist should be familiar, to review the current status of studies, and to speculate on the present and future roles of these drugs in dermatology.


Determinants of mental health among youths and adolescents in the digital era: Roles of cyber and traditional bullying, violence, loneliness, and environment factors.
Although the pathogenesis of depressive disorders is not fully elucidated, untreated adolescent depression can lead to serious sequelae such as impaired academic performance and social functioning, substance use disorders, poor self-esteem, and increased risk for suicidal ideation and attempts. Literature on adolescent mental health in Vietnam is limited, despite increased international awareness of this critical issue. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associations of depressive symptoms in Vietnamese adolescents. A cross-sectional, self-administered survey was conducted in five provinces of Vietnam among adolescents aged 14 to 24 years. In addition to collecting participants' demographics, a structured questionnaire was developed to examine depressive symptoms, suicidal ideation, loneliness, and cyberbullying victimization. Depressive symptoms and loneliness were assessed via the PHQ-9 and UCLA Loneliness Scale, respectively. Two-tailed Chi-squared, Mann-Whitney, and Kruskal-Wallis tests were performed to examine associations between variables. Multivariate Logistic regression models were conducted to examine the associations between prior-defined variables and positive depressive symptoms. Among 1,600 respondents, 31.8% of participants reported having mild-moderate or severe depressive symptoms. Participants within the moderate-severe depressive symptom group had significantly lower community cohesion scores than those of participants in normal and mild depressive symptom groups (p < 0.05). Youths living alone were more likely to have moderate-severe depressive symptoms (OR 2.16; 95% CI: 1.09-4.25). Cyberbullying had significant associations with depressive severity (OR 1.93; 95% CI 1.38-2.70). The findings of this study characterize various risk and protective factors for depression in Vietnamese youths and adolescents. The results highlight the importance of raising awareness and increasing access to educational resources for depression and other mental health illnesses. With the rising prevalence of depression, parents, teachers, and community leaders play a vital role in addressing mental health problems in adolescents.


Host-Free Deep-Blue Organic Light-Emitting Transistors Based on a Novel Fluorescent Emitter.
Organic light-emitting transistors (OLETs), with the capability of simultaneously functioning as a light-emitting stack and a thin-film transistor, have received considerable attention for potential applications in active-matrix flat-panel displays. Here, we demonstrate host-free deep-blue OLETs based on a novel small-molecule fluorescent emitter, 10,10'-bis(4-(1-phenyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)phenyl)-10H,10'H-9,9'-spirobi[acridine] (SPA-PBI), and a high-k dielectric, cross-linked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) polymer. The deep-blue OLETs based on 2,2',2″-(1,3,5-benzinetriyl)-tris(1-phenyl-1-H-benzimidazole) (TPBi) as an electron-transport layer showed an extraordinarily high hole mobility of 4.6 cm2 V-1 s-1, a brightness of 570 cd m-2 under a low gate and source-drain voltages of -24 V, and an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 0.87% at 100 cd m-2. Besides, an electroluminescence peak was observed to be at 432 nm and the corresponding CIE coordinates were as deep as (0.16, 0.08). By replacing TPBi with TmPyPB as the electron-transport layer (ETL), the electron transport and hole blocking capability were greatly improved, which led to ∼60% enhancement of the EQE (1.39% at 100 cd m-2). These results suggest that using a highly twisted double-donor-acceptor emitter with rationally optimized charge injection could lead to highly efficient deep-blue OLETs.


H-type congenital tracheoesophageal fistula: Insights from 70 years of The Royal Children's Hospital experience.
The long-term outcomes of H-type tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF), an uncommon variant of esophageal atresia/tracheoesophageal fistula (OA/TOF), are rarely described in the literature. We reviewed our institutional experience of 70 years. The Nate Myers Oesophageal Atresia Database was queried for patients with an H-type TOF (1948-2017). Data included presentation, diagnostic workup, surgical management, and outcomes. Of 1088 patients with OA/TOF, 56 (5.1%) had an H-type TOF. The most common presenting symptoms were cyanotic episodes (68%), choking with feeds (52%), and aspiration pneumonitis (46%). The majority (82%) were symptomatic in the first week of life. Coexisting congenital anomalies were present in 46%: cardiac (13/56, 23%), genitourinary (10/56, 18%), and vertebral/skeletal (9/56, 16%). Patients were consistently diagnosed with prone contrast tube esophagogram (77% sensitivity on the first study and 96% after a second study). The fistula was most commonly approached through a right cervical collar incision. Right vocal cord palsy occurred in 22%, with one case of bilateral palsies. Other complications included leak (5.6%), recurrence (9.3%), stricture (1.9%), and diverticulum (1.9%). Although there was a trend towards a lower recurrence rate when interposition material was used, this was not statistically significant (3.3% vs 16.7%, p = 0.16). Survival in operative cases was 98.2%, and when all diagnosed cases were considered was 89.3%. We have reported the largest single-center series of H-type TOF. Diagnosis is challenging, and surgical morbidity remains high. Despite this, long-term outcomes are favorable. IV.


Clinical use of Hexabrix for radiological evaluation of leakage from the upper gastrointestinal tract based on experimental study.
The clinical use of Hexabrix (May and Baker) was started about 3.5 years ago for the radiological evaluation of patients in whom the possibility of leakage of contrast medium outside the upper gastrointestinal tract, particularly the oesophagus, was anticipated. The majority (greater than 70%) of the patients were in their early post-operative period. No adverse reactions because of the use of Hexabrix were encountered.


Synthesis and in vitro cytotoxicity of 3- or 4-dialkylaminomethyl-1-azaanthraquinones.
Six 3-dialkylaminomethyl-1-azaanthraquinones and five 4-dialkylaminomethyl-1-azaanthraquinones were synthesized and evaluated in vitro cytotoxicity against four human cancer cell lines. The compounds retained much of their cytotoxic activity against the multi-drug-resistant cell line (KB-V-1) as shown by resistance index.


A survey for the need of translational aids among Canadian ophthalmologists.
To conduct a needs assessment survey of Canadian ophthalmologists to determine whether there is a requirement for translational aids in ophthalmology, and if so, the content, format, and languages to include. Anonymous voluntary online needs assessment questionnaire. A total of 139 ophthalmologists completed the online needs assessment questionnaire. An anonymous voluntary online survey in English and French was distributed to 700 active members (practicing Canadian ophthalmologists) of the Canadian Ophthalmological Society. Data were collected regarding the potential utility of translational aids, as well as the contents and languages that should be included if such aids were to be created. Level of support for translational aids, as well as the contents and languages of potential translational aids, was assessed. The survey response rate was 19.9% (139/700). The majority of the respondents (130/139, 93.5%) have encountered difficulty in communicating with patients because of language barrier, and 88.5% (123/139) would benefit from having a list of ophthalmologic terms translated into several of Canada's most popular languages. The top 10 languages that the respondents indicated would be most beneficial are (in descending order): Chinese, Hindi, Spanish, Punjabi, Italian, Portuguese, Arabic, Greek, Cree, and Vietnamese. The survey responses provided a comprehensive list of the most useful ophthalmologic symptoms, instructions to patients, and diagnoses to be translated. Most respondents (120/139, 86.3%) believed that having basic information pamphlets on specific ocular conditions translated into several languages would benefit their practice; the top 3 conditions were cataract, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Producing the translational aids in both paper and electronic format was found to be the most favoured (89/139, 64.0%). Canadian ophthalmologists believe they would benefit from translational aids. The results of this survey provide a framework for the creation of such aids.


Association of intron 1 variants of the dopamine transporter gene with schizophrenia.
The dopamine transporter (DAT1) gene has been implicated in the pathogenesis of many neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. The present study aimed to investigate association of the DAT1 gene polymorphisms with schizophrenia in a Han Chinese population. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the DAT1 gene (rs2975223 and rs2455391) were tested in 368 patients with schizophrenia and 420 healthy controls, of whom 293 patients underwent an assessment of psychotic symptoms through the positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS). The chi-square test (χ(2)) showed disease association for rs2455391 (corrected p=0.023 for allelic association and p=0.034 for genotypic association, respectively). The rs2975223(G)-rs2455391(C) haplotype was associated with increased risk of the illness (p=0.0012, OR=2.09, 95% CI=1.28-3.42). Quantitative trait analysis showed that rs2455391 was associated with positive symptoms, general symptoms and global symptoms but not with negative symptoms. The present results suggest that the DAT1 gene may be mainly involved in the development of the positive symptoms in the Chinese population.


Evaluating the impact on patients of living with a leg ulcer.
Much research has been undertaken into the cost-effectiveness of leg ulcer treatments, dressing selections and patient compliance. However, comparatively little research has investigated the effect of leg ulcers on patients' quality of life. This article reviews the literature examining the quality of life of this patient group and the factors that have the greatest negative impact on them.


Management of temporomandibular joint ankylosis with temporalis fascia flap and fat graft.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ankylosis is a serious problem that restricts jaw mobility and causes disturbances in facial and mandibular growth. The purpose of this paper is to present an easy and versatile method for the treatment of TMJ ankylosis to decrease postoperative complications such as re-ankylosis. Eleven patients who presented with ankylosis of the TMJ underwent surgical release. After performing gap arthroplasty through a preauricular approach, the temporalis fascia flap was transposed to the gap. An autogenous fat graft was then obtained from the abdomen and used as interpositional material. The follow-up time was 3-5 years. Re-ankylosis did not occur in any of the patients, and all had satisfactory mouth opening. Surgical treatment of TMJ ankylosis with gap arthroplasty, interposition of the temporalis fascia flap and fat grafting is an effective and easily procedure for preventing of re-ankylosis. The autogenous nature and close proximity to the joint are the main advantages of the temporalis fascia flap when compared with other interpositional materials, and the fat graft provides additional support by reducing pressure.


Vitamin D receptor expression and hepcidin levels in the protection or severity of leprosy: a systematic review.
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease whose disequilibrium in the host's genetic, immunological and clinical mechanisms leads to distinct manifestations defining the type of immunological response. This review focuses its attention on the influence of the Vitamin D Receptor and hepcidin expressions that can suggest the protection or severity of leprosy.


A review of the effects of COVID-19 on food waste.
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant vulnerabilities in systems of production and consumption. In particular, the economic and social implications of the pandemic highlighted the urgent need for more sustainable and less impactful practices of food production and consumption. Through a systematic literature review, this paper seeks to assess how the pandemic affected the phenomenon of food waste, with the aim of assessing whether the pandemic stimulated changes amongst food system actors, especially consumers. The findings indicate that consumers generally reported behavioural changes during the pandemic and claimed to have adopted sustainable practices that could contribute to reducing food waste. The results also reflect the rapid diffusion of practices such as food delivery during the pandemic, which requires further investigation in terms of its effects on the environment. Simultaneously, supply-demand shocks and disruptions were reported in the areas of production, processing, and retailing, suggesting the occurence of ripple effects. A call is made for greater resilience in the food system, through the adoption of sustainable and less impactful practices, supported by policy.


Isoferulic Acid Action against Glycation-Induced Changes in Structural and Functional Attributes of Human High-Density Lipoprotein.
Glycation-induced high-density lipoprotein (HDL) modification by aldehydes can result in loss of its antiinflammatory/antioxidative properties, contributing to diabetes-associated cardiovascular diseases. Isoferulic acid, a major active ingredient of Cimicifuga heracleifolia, shows antiinflammatory, antiviral, antioxidant, and antidiabetic properties. Thus, this study investigated the antiglycation effect of isoferulic acid against compositional modifications of HDL and loss of biological activity of HDL-paraoxonase induced on incubation with different aldehydes. Protective effect of isoferulic acid was assessed by subjecting purified HDL from human plasma to glycation with methylglyoxal, glyoxal, or glycolaldehyde and varying concentrations of isoferulic acid. The effect of isoferulic acid was analyzed by determining amino group number, tryptophan and advanced glycation end-product fluorescence, thermal denaturation studies, carboxymethyl lysine content, and activity of HDL-paraoxonase. Concentration-dependent inhibitory action of isoferulic acid was observed against extensive structural perturbations, decrease in amino group number, increase in carboxymethyl lysine content, and decrease in the activity of HDL-paraoxonase caused by aldehyde-associated glycation in the HDL molecule. Isoferulic acid, when taken in concentration equal to that of aldehydes, was most protective, as 82-88% of paraoxonase activity was retained for all studied aldehydes. Isoferulic acid shows antiglycation action against aldehyde-associated glycation in HDL, which indicates its therapeutic potential for diabetic patients, especially those with micro-/macrovascular complications.


Association Between Recency of Immigration and Mammography Uptake: Results from a Canadian National Survey.
Despite the strong evidence for screening mammography in reducing mortality from breast cancer, uptake is hampered especially in recent immigrant populations. Although mammography screening behaviors of immigrant populations compared to the general population have been widely studied, evidence of the specific characteristics within the immigrant population in a universal healthcare setting, which explain differential uptake is lacking. The current cross sectional study used self-reported data from the 2011-2012 Canadian Community Health Survey to examine the association between recency of immigration and mammography uptake among 1825 immigrant women aged 50-69 years, using multivariable logistic model adjusted for confounders. In the adjusted analysis, non-recent immigrants had a nonsignificantly increased odds of recent mammography uptake, 1.19 (95 % CI 0.41, 3.44) compared to recent immigrants. In the face of evidence depicting differential health care utilization of recent immigrants compared to non-recent ones or the general population, findings from this study highlight further thinking into strategies for improving the health of immigrants.


Remote ballistic fractures in a gelatine model--aetiology and surgical implications.
Remote ballistic femoral fractures are rare fractures reported in the literature but still debated as to their existence and, indeed, their treatment. This study aimed to prove their existence, understand how they occur and determine which ammunition provides the greatest threat. In addition, fracture patterns, soft tissue disruption and contamination were assessed to aid in treatment planning. We filmed 42 deer femora embedded in ballistic gelatine and shot with four different military (5.56 × 45 mm, 7.62 × 39 mm) and civilian (9 × 19 mm, .44 in.) bullets, at varying distances off the bone (0-10 cm). Two remote ballistic fractures occurred, both with .44 in. hollow-point bullets shot 3 cm off the bone. These fractures occurred when the leading edge of the expanding temporary cavity impacted the femur's supracondylar region, producing a wedge-shaped fracture with an undisplaced limb, deceivingly giving the appearance of a spiral fracture. No communication was seen between the fracture and permanent cavity, despite the temporary cavity encasing the fracture and stripping periosteum from its base. These fractures occur with civilian ammunition, but cannot prove their existence with military rounds. They result from the expanding temporary cavity affecting the weakest part of the bone, creating a potentially contaminated wedge-shaped fracture, important for surgeons considering operative intervention.


Molecular genetics of exocrine pancreatic neoplasms.
Molecular genetic studies of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma have revealed the common co-existence of K-ras, p53, and MTS1 mutations. The finding of K-ras mutations in epithelial lesions of ducts suggests them as a precursor intraepithelial neoplasm. The clinical importance of this line of work can only be anticipated at present, and a fuller understanding of genetic alterations in these neoplasms is necessary.


Effects of maternal ethanol infusion during pregnancy on the growth and development of children at four to seven years of age.
Twenty-five children whose mothers had been given ethanol for the arrest of preterm labor were evaluated at 4 to 7 years of age and compared with matched control subjects. The group as a whole showed no major differences from control subjects. However, when a subgroup of children born during or within 15 hours of termination of the infusion was investigated, significant pathology in developmental and personality evaluations were noted. It is concluded that if ethanol infusion is to be used, the patient should be carefully evaluated during the infusion. If it appears that labor is progressing, the infusion should be discontinued so as to allow a maximal drug-free interval before delivery.


Smoking behavior, dysphoric states and the menstrual cycle: results from single smoking sessions and the natural environment.
A 2-way factorial repeated measures design examined the effects of menstrual cycle phase and smoking on: 1) smoking behavior, 2) mood state, 3) nicotine withdrawal symptomatology, and 4) menstrual symptomatology. Female smokers, aged 20-39, were followed for two consecutive menstrual cycles with two data collection sessions per cycle, which were conducted in the University's General Clinical Research Center (GCRC). Participants were randomly assigned to order of smoking condition, which included: 1) smoking ad libitum, and 2) 24-hour abstinence prior to data collection. Data were collected in the mid-to-late follicular (MLF) phase (between days 6 through to 11) and the four days prior to menses in late luteal (LL) phase. Participants completed the Profile of Mood States and Menstrual Symptom Severity List and recorded daily cigarette smoking rate in the natural environment during MLF and LL phases. Nicotine boost and carbon monoxide (CO) boost were measured and the Shiffman-Jarvick Tobacco Withdrawal Questionnaire was administered during GCRC data collection sessions. Results indicated that subjects smoked more cigarettes per day during the LL phase and CO boost was greater during MLF. No difference was noted in nicotine boost by condition or phase. No difference in mood state was noted by either condition or phase. Withdrawal symptomatology and craving for cigarettes were increased after 24 hours of abstinence. No difference was noted in menstrual symptoms by condition or phase. Further investigations are still needed to characterize the importance of cycle phase in the design of smoking cessation interventions for women of reproductive age.


OsMADS5 interacts with OsSPL14/17 to inhibit rice root elongation by restricting cell proliferation of root meristem under ammonium supply.
Nitrogen (N) is a vital major nutrient for rice (Oryza sativa). Rice responds to different applications of N by altering its root morphology, including root elongation. Although ammonium ( NH 4 + ) is the primary source of N for rice, NH 4 + is toxic to rice roots and inhibits root elongation. However, the precise molecular mechanism that NH 4 + -inhibited root elongation of rice is not well understood. Here, we identified a rice T-DNA insert mutant of OsMADS5 with a longer seminal root (SR) under sufficient N conditions. Reverse-transcription quantitative PCR analysis revealed that the expression level of OsMADS5 was increased under NH 4 + compared with NO 3 - supply. Under NH 4 + conditions, knocking out OsMADS5 (cas9) produced a longer SR, phenocopying osmads5, while there was no significant difference in SR length between wild-type and cas9 under NO 3 - supply. Moreover, OsMADS5-overexpression plants displayed the opposite SR phenotype. Further study demonstrated that enhancement of OsMADS5 by NH 4 + supply inhibited rice SR elongation, likely by reducing root meristem activity of root tip, with the involvement of OsCYCB1;1. We also found that OsMADS5 interacted with OsSPL14 and OsSPL17 (OsSPL14/17) to repress their transcriptional activation by attenuating DNA binding ability. Moreover, loss of OsSPL14/17 function in osmads5 eliminated its stimulative effect on SR elongation under NH 4 + conditions, implying OsSPL14/17 may function downstream of OsMADS5 to mediate rice SR elongation under NH 4 + supply. Overall, our results indicate the existence of a novel modulatory pathway in which enhancement of OsMADS5 by NH 4 + supply represses the transcriptional activities of OsSPL14/17 to restrict SR elongation of rice.


Unusual case of a large midoesophageal diverticulum mimicking unstable angina pectoris.
We describe a 77-year-old lady who presented with progressive retrosternal pain radiating to the left arm and the back. After exclusion of cardiac causes a large midoesophageal diverticulum was found on oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy. Importantly, the retrosternal pain completely disappeared after endoscopic removal of impacted food from the diverticulum. After the surgical resection the patient became fully asymptomatic. This is the first example of angina-like chest pain which definitively resulted from a midoesophageal diverticulum. Therefore, midoesophageal diverticula should be considered as a rare differential diagnosis of exercise-induced retrosternal pain.


Delivery of miR-34a by chitosan/PLGA nanoplexes for the anticancer treatment of multiple myeloma.
The encapsulation of miR-34a into chitosan/PLGA nanoparticles in order to obtain nanoplexes useful for the modulation of the biopharmaceutical features of the active compound was studied. The nanoplexes were obtained through nanoprecipitation and were characterized by a mean diameter of ~160 nm, a good size distribution and a positive surface charge. The structure of the nanoparticles allowed a high level of entrapment efficiency of the miR-34a and provided protection of the genetic material from the effects of RNase. A high degree of transfection efficiency of the nanoplexes and a significant in vitro antitumor effect against multiple myeloma cells was demonstrated. The therapeutic properties of the nanoplexes were evaluated in vivo against human multiple myeloma xenografts in NOD-SCID mice. The systemic injection of miR-34a mimic-loaded nanoparticles significantly inhibited tumor growth and translated into improved survival of the laboratory mice. RT-PCR analysis carried out on retrieved tumors demonstrated the presence of a high concentration of miR-34a mimics. The integrity of the nanoplexes remained intact and no organ toxicity was observed in treated animals.


Characterization of O-methyltransferase ScOMT1 cloned from Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2).
The roles of O-methyltransferases (OMTs) in microorganisms are not well understood, and are suggested to increase antimicrobial activity. Studies on OMTs cloned from microorganisms may help elucidate their roles. Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2) produces many useful natural antibiotics such as actinorhodin. Based on sequence information from S. coelicolor A3(2) genome, it was possible to clone several methyltransferases. An OMT cloned from Streptomyces coelicolor A3(2), ScOMT1 was characterized by in vivo and in vitro assays. Of 23 compounds tested, 13 were found to serve as its substrates. Of the 13 substrates, the methylated positions of 7 compounds were determined by HPLC, NMR, and MS analyses. This OMT favored ortho-dihydroxyflavones. Among the compounds tested here, the best substrate is 6,7-dihydroxyflavone.


PGC-1α Promotes Breast Cancer Metastasis and Confers Bioenergetic Flexibility against Metabolic Drugs.
Metabolic adaptations play a key role in fueling tumor growth. However, less is known regarding the metabolic changes that promote cancer progression to metastatic disease. Herein, we reveal that breast cancer cells that preferentially metastasize to the lung or bone display relatively high expression of PGC-1α compared with those that metastasize to the liver. PGC-1α promotes breast cancer cell migration and invasion in vitro and augments lung metastasis in vivo. Pro-metastatic capabilities of PGC-1α are linked to enhanced global bioenergetic capacity, facilitating the ability to cope with bioenergetic disruptors like biguanides. Indeed, biguanides fail to mitigate the PGC-1α-dependent lung metastatic phenotype and PGC-1α confers resistance to stepwise increases in metformin concentration. Overall, our results reveal that PGC-1α stimulates bioenergetic potential, which promotes breast cancer metastasis and facilitates adaptation to metabolic drugs.


A nuclear post-transcriptional mechanism mediates the induction of fibronectin by glucocorticoids.
Treatment of the human fibrosarcoma cell line HT-1080 with glucocorticoids results in the induction of fibronectin (FN) protein and mRNA synthesis. We tested the contribution of transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms in the regulation of FN by the synthetic glucocorticoid dexamethasone (DEX). Using nuclear run-on experiments, we found that the DEX-dependent induction of FN occurs primarily at the post-transcriptional level. The half-life of total FN mRNA was not affected by hormone treatment indicating that the induction of FN gene expression is not due to stabilization of the mature message. Interestingly, the induction by DEX was present at the level of nuclear FN RNA. We found that polyadenylation and alternative splicing of the ED-B domain of the FN transcript were not affected by glucocorticoid treatment. However, DEX was found to increase the steady-state level of unspliced FN transcript. Our data indicate that DEX exerts its effect on FN expression predominantly at the post-transcriptional level by a mechanism that, unlike most examples of post-transcriptional regulation by glucocorticoids, acts in the nucleus. Furthermore, they suggest that glucocorticoids activate a mechanism to stabilize the unspliced FN RNA. In an attempt to localize the FN RNA sequences mediating the DEX-dependent induction, we performed transfection analyses of FN minigene constructs. We suggest that the DEX-dependent regulatory elements are located in the introns since no such elements were found in the 8 kb FN mRNA.


Host species as a strong determinant of the intestinal microbiota of fish larvae.
We investigated the influence of host species on intestinal microbiota by comparing the gut bacterial community structure of four cohabitating freshwater fish larvae, silver carp, grass carp, bighead carp, and blunt snout bream, using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) of the amplified 16S and 18S rRNA genes. Similarity clustering indicated that the intestinal microbiota derived from these four fish species could be divided into four groups based on 16S rRNA gene similarity, whereas the eukaryotic 18S rRNA genes showed no distinct groups. The water sample from the shared environment contained microbiota of an independent group as indicated by both 16S and 18S rRNA genes segments. The bacterial community structures were visualized using rank-abundance plots fitted with linear regression models. Results showed that the intestinal bacterial evenness was significantly different between species (P<0.05) and between species and the water sample (P<0.01). Thirty-five relatively dominant bands in DGGE patterns were sequenced and grouped into five major taxa: Proteobacteria (26), Actinobacteria (5), Bacteroidetes (1), Firmicutes (2), and Cyanobacterial (1). Six eukaryotes were detected by sequencing 18S rRNA genes segments. The present study suggests that the intestines of the four fish larvae, although reared in the same environment, contained distinct bacterial populations, while intestinal eukaryotic microorganisms were almost identical.


Worksite physical activity interventions and obesity: a review of European studies (the HOPE project).
Our aim was to review the effectiveness of physical activity promotion interventions in the worksite setting in Europe in order to identify those studies that had measured obesity-related outcomes and to evaluate how external validity of the findings had been assessed. We conducted a review of studies conducted in Europe, published up to December 2009. We assessed levels of evidence regarding effectiveness and analysed external validity using the RE-AIM framework. Studies included (n = 33) were divided in 6 intervention categories. Moderate evidence of effectiveness was found for physical fitness outcomes with exercise training interventions and for physical activity outcomes with active commuting interventions. There was no or inconclusive evidence for obesity-related outcomes for all intervention categories. For external validity, elements receiving the least attention (<20%) were representativeness of participants, setting-level inclusion/exclusion criteria and representativeness, characteristics regarding intervention staff, implementation of intervention, costs, long-term effects and programme sustainability. Active commuting and exercise training appear as promising approaches to promote physical activity or fitness in the workplace. The effect of interventions on obesity-related outcomes remains to be further investigated. There is a need to better report elements of generalizability and dissemination for translation into practice of worksite physical activity interventions.


Testosterone influences spatial strategy preferences among adult male rats.
Males outperform females on some spatial tasks, and this may be partially due to the effects of sex steroids on spatial strategy preferences. Previous work with rodents indicates that low estradiol levels bias females toward a striatum-dependent response strategy, whereas high estradiol levels bias them toward a hippocampus-dependent place strategy. We tested whether testosterone influenced the strategy preferences in male rats. All subjects were castrated and assigned to one of three daily injection doses of testosterone (0.125, 0.250, or 0.500 mg/rat) or a control group that received daily injections of the drug vehicle. Three different maze protocols were used to determine rats' strategy preferences. A low dose of testosterone (0.125 mg) biased males toward a motor-response strategy on a T-maze task. In a water maze task in which the platform itself could be used intermittently as a visual cue, a low testosterone dose (0.125 mg) caused a significant increase in the use of a cued-response strategy relative to control males. Results from this second experiment also indicated that males receiving a high dose of testosterone (0.500 mg) were biased toward a place strategy. A third experiment indicated that testosterone dose did not have a strong influence on the ability of rats to use a nearby visual cue (floating ball) in the water maze. For this experiment, all groups seemed to use a combination of place and cued-response strategies. Overall, the results indicate that the effects of testosterone on spatial strategy preference are dose dependent and task dependent.


Postoperative Hemidiaphragmatic Paralysis and Platypnea-Orthodeoxia Syndrome.
Long MT, Grate J, Bradley KV. Postoperative Hemidiaphragmatic Paralysis and Platypnea-Orthodeoxia Syndrome. Indian J Crit Care Med 2021;25(8):951-953.


Inhibition of uptake 2 (or extraneuronal monoamine transporter) by normetanephrine potentiates the neurochemical effects of venlafaxine.
Two distinct norepinephrine (NE) transporter mechanisms (uptake 1 and uptake 2) regulate extracellular NE concentrations. An association has been observed between the gradual improvement in patients treated with antidepressants that inhibit the NE transporter (NET/uptake 1) and increases in urinary normetanephrine, the O-methylated NE metabolite and potent inhibitor of uptake 2. These observations led to the hypothesis that increased levels of normetanephrine, and consequently inhibition of uptake 2, may partly be responsible for the clinical efficacy of some antidepressants. To investigate this hypothesis, we employed microdialysis techniques in the rat frontal cortex to monitor extracellular changes in normetanephrine following chronic administration of the clinically effective antidepressant, venlafaxine (a serotonin (5-HT) and NE reuptake inhibitor). We evaluated the neurochemical effects of inhibiting uptake 2 alone, or in conjunction with venlafaxine, on extracellular levels of NE and 5-HT. Chronic venlafaxine administration (14 days, 10 mg/kg, s.c.) elicited significant increases in cortical NE and 5-HT while producing a non-significant trend to increase cortical levels of normetanephrine. Additional studies revealed that combining normetanephrine with venlafaxine (10 mg/kg, i.p.), at a dose of normetanephrine (10 mg/kg, i.p.) that did not produce changes in extracellular levels of NE on its own, potentiated antidepressant-induced increases in extracellular NE. We also report mouse behavioral data involving the tail suspension test that complement the neurochemical observations. These preclinical findings, taken together, suggest that inhibiting both uptake 1 and uptake 2 via venlafaxine and normetanephrine, respectively, elicits a greater increase in cortical levels of NE than inhibiting either transporter alone.


Application of two-component neural network for exchange-correlation functional interpolation.
Density functional theory (DFT) is one of the primary approaches to solving the many-body Schrodinger equation. The essential part of the DFT theory is the exchange-correlation (XC) functional, which can not be obtained in analytical form. Accordingly, the accuracy improvement of the DFT is mainly based on the development of XC functional approximations. Commonly, they are built upon analytic solutions in low- and high-density limits and result from quantum Monte Carlo or post-Hartree-Fock numerical calculations. However, there is no universal functional form to incorporate these data into XC functional. Instead, various parameterizations use heuristic rules to build a specific XC functional. The neural network (NN) approach to interpolate the data from higher precision theories can give a unified path to parametrize an XC functional. Moreover, data from many existing quantum chemical databases could provide the XC functional with improved accuracy. We develop NN XC functional, which gives exchange potential and energy density without direct derivatives of exchange-correlation energy density. Proposed NN architecture consists of two parts NN-E and NN-V, which could be trained in separate ways, adding new flexibility to XC functional. We also show that the developed NN XC functional converges in the self-consistent cycle and gives reasonable energies when applied to atoms, molecules, and crystals.


Association between Fine Particulate Air Pollution and Daily Clinic Visits for Migraine in a Subtropical City: Taipei, Taiwan.
This study was undertaken to determine whether there was an association between fine particle (PM₂.₅) levels and daily clinic visits for migraine in Taipei, Taiwan. Daily clinic visits for migraine and ambient air pollution data for Taipei were obtained for the period from 2006-2011. The odds ratio of clinic visits was estimated using a case-crossover approach, controlling for weather variables, day of the week, seasonality, and long-term time trends. Generally, no significant associations between PM₂.₅ levels and migraine visits were observed on cool days. On warm days, however, for the single pollutant model (without adjustment for other pollutants), increased clinic visits for migraine were significantly associated with PM₂.₅ levels, with an interquartile range (IQR) rise associated with a 13% (95% CI = 8%-19%) elevation in number of migraine visits. In bi-pollutant model, PM₂.₅ remained significant after the inclusion of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) or ozone (O₃) on warm days. This study provides evidence that higher levels of PM₂.₅ increase the risk of clinic visits for migraine in Taipei, Taiwan.