Recurrent erosion of COA1/MITRAC15 exemplifies conditional gene dispensability in oxidative phosphorylation.
Skeletal muscle fibers rely upon either oxidative phosphorylation or the glycolytic pathway with much less reliance on oxidative phosphorylation to achieve muscular contractions that power mechanical movements. Species with energy-intensive adaptive traits that require sudden bursts of energy have a greater dependency on glycolytic fibers. Glycolytic fibers have decreased reliance on OXPHOS and lower mitochondrial content compared to oxidative fibers. Hence, we hypothesized that gene loss might have occurred within the OXPHOS pathway in lineages that largely depend on glycolytic fibers. The protein encoded by the COA1/MITRAC15 gene with conserved orthologs found in budding yeast to humans promotes mitochondrial translation. We show that gene disrupting mutations have accumulated within the COA1 gene in the cheetah, several species of galliform birds, and rodents. The genomic region containing COA1 is a well-established evolutionary breakpoint region in mammals. Careful inspection of genome assemblies of closely related species of rodents and marsupials suggests two independent COA1 gene loss events co-occurring with chromosomal rearrangements. Besides recurrent gene loss events, we document changes in COA1 exon structure in primates and felids. The detailed evolutionary history presented in this study reveals the intricate link between skeletal muscle fiber composition and the occasional dispensability of the chaperone-like role of the COA1 gene.


Amino acid sequence of the heavy chain of bovine protein C.
The amino acid sequence of the heavy chain of protein C from bovine plasma is reported together with supporting data. The heavy chain contains 260 amino acid residues and it has three carbohydrate side chains. Its structure was determined by sequenator degradation of fragments obtained by enzymatic and chemical cleavage. The sequence is homologous with those of the other serine proteases. On activation, an NH2-terminal tetradecapeptide is removed.


One-step synthesis of protein-encapsulated microspheres in a porous scaffold by freeze-drying double emulsions and tuneable protein release.
A one-step method is developed to prepare BSA-encapsulated PLGA microspheres in porous chitosan via freeze-drying water-in-oil-in-water emulsions. Tuneable BSA release is demonstrated.


Nurse case manager effectiveness and case load in a large clinical practice: implications for workforce development.
Description of nurse case management experiences across different settings and patient populations is needed to define critical elements of the intervention and to help develop a workforce capable of responding to the growing diabetic population. In a clinic providing services to American Indian and Alaska Native people, a retrospective cohort design was used to assess outcomes of patients who did and did not receive case management services and to quantify the case load of a team of four nurse case managers. Patients with nurse case managers were more likely to have an eye examination [OR 2.9, 95% CI (2.1, 3.8)], diet and exercise instruction by a registered dietitian [OR 2.8, 95% CI (1.9, 4.1)], self monitor blood glucose [OR 2.1, 95% CI (1.5, 3.1)], dental examination [OR 1.7, 95% CI (1.3, 2.3)], foot examination [OR 1.6, 95% CI (1.2, 2.1)], and nephropathy screening [OR 1.6, 95% CI (1.2, 2.1)]. After adjustment for type of treatment, initial HbA(1c), and diet instruction by a registered dietitian, the change in HbA(1c) remained significantly greater among those patients with a case manager than in those without (-0.52 units with vs. -0.17 units without, P < 0.006). The case load used to achieve this outcome averaged one nurse case manager per 365 patients. In this setting, a case management team comprised of four nurses with varying degrees of clinical experience was effective in improving adherence with diabetes services and had a favourable effect on short-term glucose control trends.


Nontraumatic perforation of the small bowel.
Small intestinal perforation is an infrequent but often fatal complication of a variety of disorders. Treatment of 76 adults with nontraumatic perforation occurring during a 21 year period was reviewed. The majority of perforations were due to mechanical causes, malignancy, and Crohn's disease. An abdominal mass (53 percent, p less than 0.05) and fever (81 percent, p less than 0.01) were most frequently documented in patients with Crohn's disease, whereas a positive result on fecal occult blood testing (77 percent, p less than 0.025) was common in those with malignant perforations. Otherwise, clinical and laboratory manifestations, including radiographic evidence of free air, were inconstant. The overall mortality rate was 29 percent, with 65 (86 percent) of the patients undergoing operation. Survival was independent of diagnostic delay (p greater than 0.10). In general, despite various causes and delays in diagnosis, resection and primary anastomosis remains an effective treatment for perforation of the small bowel.


Low-light-level all-optical switching.
We propose an all-optical switch that utilizes the technique of storage and retrieval of light pulses. A single photon (probe pulse) switched by another (switching pulse) is feasible, and the on-off ratio can be as large as 10 dB. We have experimentally demonstrated that the energy of the retrieved probe pulse is reduced to about 10% because of the presence of a switching pulse with an energy per unit area of one photon per lambda(2)/(2pi). The achieved result does not depend on the coupling intensity, the atomic optical density, or the width and shape of the switching pulse.


Short-term memory, exploration and locomotor activity in aged rats.
Behavioral profiles of young (3-6 months) and aged (24-27 months) rats were compared in three respects: (1) short-term memory, (2) exploration and (3) locomotor activity. Compared to young rats, aged rats were impaired in the 8-arm radial maze acquisition, but not in the delayed reinforced alternation acquisition. They had lower scores of spontaneous alternation, of exploration of a novel object and of a novel environment. Their exploratory activity was lower in a simple environment but similar in a complex environment. Their spontaneous locomotor activity was lower during the dark part of the cycle (8 p.m.-8 a.m.) but not different during the light part of the cycle (8 a.m.-8 p.m.). These results suggest that with respect to short-term memory and exploration, differences between aged and young rats may be influenced by a "complexity" factor and may be secondary to differences in motivation and reactions to novelty.


Electrophoretic analysis of HLA-DR2 molecules isolated from HLA-Dw2 and HLA-Dw12 cell lines.
To answer the question of whether or not polymorphism exists among HLA-DR2 molecules derived from cells homozygous for HLA-DR2, but expressing different HLA-D specificities, HLA-DR2 molecules were isolated from HLA-Dw2 and HLA-Dw12 homozygous cells using a monoclonal antibody operationally monospecific for HLA-DR2, and were compared to each other by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. No electrophoretically discernible polymorphism was found in either the heavy or the light chain subunits of the HLA-DR2 molecules. These findings are in marked contrast with previous observations that each of the HLA-DR4-associated HLA-D clusters expresses an electrophoretically distinct HLA-DR4 light chain.


Comparison of sway meter and Kinovea software as a tool of measurement for the sway parameters during quiet standing: An observational study.
Several attempts have been made to quantify postural sway, from simple observational techniques to advanced computer technology. Measuring sway using commercial motion tracking devices and force plates are expensive and not feasible in evaluation on non-standardised surfaces. Video cameras can be used as an affordable alternative to perform human motion capturing, and this data can be analysed using motion tracking software like Kinovea; a free, reliable software that provides valid data, and an acceptable level of accuracy in angular and linear measurements. This study evaluated the reliability of Kinovea software to measure the sway amplitude in comparison with sway meter. Thirty-six young women were recruited by convenience to this prospective observational study. Sway amplitude of the participants were measured using a sway meter on three different surfaces, with eyes opened and closed conditions, using modified Lords sway meter and videography. Videos were later analysed using Kinovea motion analysing software. The quantitative data of sway parameters were analysed for reliability using intraclass-correlation co-efficient and Bland Altman plot. There was an excellent correlation (>0.90) between the sway measurement values obtained from both methods irrespective of the surfaces. But the reliability was greater for the medio-lateral sway on the pebbled surfaces (0.981), and least for the anterior posterior sway on the same surface. This study concludes that, there is an excellent reliability for the video based sway analysis using Kinovea software. Hence this method can be used as an affordable alternative to measure the sway parameters.


HLA-B5 associated with duodenal ulcer.
In a search for further genetic factors contributing to ulcer disease we undertook a study of the frequency of HLA antigens in patients with duodenal ulcer. Seventy-seven male patients (of two races) were typed for the HLA-A and-B loci. Thirteen of the 54 (24%) white males were found to have antigen B5 compared to 10% of controls. These results have a P value of 0.0016 which remains significant even when multiplied by the number of antigens tested (28). These results demonstrate a significant association between duodenal ulcer and HLA antigen B5 in white males, with a relative risk of 2.9, greater than that associated with the combination of blood group O and nonsecretor status.


Dataset for the estimation of costs for direct contact condenser.
The dataset on equations and procedures for the estimation of detailed capital and annual costs for direct contact condenser are presented. Full dataset on four design cases relevant to the comparisons on the costs of air and oxy-fuel direct contact condenser is given. The data are presented in this format to allow the comparison with those from other researchers in this field. The data presented are related to the article entitled "A comparative study on the design of direct contact condenser for air and oxy-fuel combustion flue gas based on Callide Oxy-fuel Project" (Liu et al., 2018) [1].


Impact of multi-micronutrient supplementation on lipidemia of children and adolescents.
Micronutrient supplementation has been extensively explored as a strategy to improve health and reduce risk of chronic diseases. Fat-soluble vitamins like A and E with their antioxidant properties and mechanistic interactions with lipoproteins, have potentially a key impact on lipid metabolism and lipidemia. The impact of micronutrients on lipid metabolism requires further investigation including characterization of plasma lipidome following supplementation and any cause-effect on circulating lipids. In this study, we elucidate the effect and associations of a multi-micronutrient intervention in Brazilian children and teens with lipoprotein alterations and lipid metabolism. Our analysis suggests a combination of short and long-term impact of supplementation on lipid metabolism, potentially mediated primarily by α-tocopherol (vitamin E) and retinol (vitamin A). Among the lipid classes, levels of phospholipids, lysophospholipids, and cholesterol esters were impacted the most along with differential incorporation of stearic, palmitic, oleic and arachidonic acids. Integrated analysis with proteomic data suggested potential links to supplementation-mediated alterations in protein levels of phospholipases and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1). Associations between the observed differences in lipidemia, total triglyceride, and VLDL-cholesterol levels suggest that micronutrients may play a role in reducing these risk factors for cardiovascular disease in children. This would require further investigation.


Genetic polymorphisms in the PACAP and PAC1 receptor genes and treatment response to venlafaxine XR in generalized anxiety disorder.
The pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP) and its receptor (PAC1) are involved in stress response and anxiety. Genotypes for PACAP/PAC1 were examined for effects on treatment response to venlafaxine XR in generalized anxiety disorder. The Asp54Gly (rs2856966) variant in the PACAP gene was associated with better treatment outcome.


Observation of an unusual electronically distorted semiquinone radical of PCB metabolites in the active site of prostaglandin H synthase-2.
The activation of the metabolites of airborne polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) into highly reactive radicals is of fundamental importance. We found that human recombinant prostaglandin H synthase-2 (hPGHS-2) biotransforms dihydroxy-PCBs, such as 4-chlorobiphenyl-2',5'-hydroquinone (4-CB-2',5'-H(2)Q), into semiquinone radicals via one-electron oxidation. Using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, we observed the formation of the symmetric quartet spectrum (1:3:3:1 by area) of 4-chlorobiphenyl-2',5'-semiquinone radical (4-CB-2',5'-SQ()(-)) from 4-CB-2',5'-H(2)Q. This spectrum changed to an asymmetric spectrum with time: the change can be explained as the overlap of two different semiquinone radical species. Hindered rotation of the 4-CB-2',5'-SQ()(-) appears not to be a major factor for the change in lineshape because increasing the viscosity of the medium with glycerol produced no significant change in lineshape. Introduction of a fluorine, which increases the steric hindrance for rotation of the dihydroxy-PCB studied, also produced no significant changes. An in silico molecular docking model of 4-CB-2',5'-H(2)Q in the peroxidase site of hPGHS-2 together with ab initio quantum mechanical studies indicate that the close proximity of a negatively charged carboxylic acid in the peroxidase active site may be responsible for the observed perturbation in the spectrum. This study provides new insights into the formation of semiquinones from PCB metabolites and underscores the potential role of PGHS-2 in the metabolic activation of PCBs.


In vitro effect of transfer factor on the cyclic nucleotide level of human lymphocytes in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and of mouse lymphocytes.
In the present study transfer factor (TF) failed to produce any change in the cAMP- and cGMP-levels of lymphocytes of patients with chronic lymphoid leukaemia (CLL). This is attributed to the malignant transformation of the lymphocytes or to a changed proportion of different lymphocyte populations in CLL. Human TF leaves the cyclic nucleotide levels of splenic lymphocytes of BALB/c mice unaffected.


Failure Rates and Complications After Multiple-Revision ACL Reconstruction: Comparison of the Over-the-Top and Transportal Drilling Techniques.
Multiple-revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) presents several technical challenges, often due to residual hardware, tunnel widening, malposition, or staged surgeries. To compare failure and complication rates between the over-the-top (OTT) and transportal drilling (TD) techniques in patients undergoing surgery for failed revision ACLR. Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. The medical records of patients with at least 2 revision ACLRs using either the OTT or TD technique were reviewed retrospectively. Data on patient demographics, graft characteristics, number of revisions, concomitant procedures, complications, and failures were collected. Between-group comparisons of continuous and categorical variables were conducted with the independent-samples t test and the Fisher exact or chi-square test, respectively. A total of 101 patients undergoing multiple-revision ACLR with OTT (n = 37, 37%) and TD (n = 64, 63%) techniques were included for analysis. The mean follow-up time was 60 months (range, 12-196 months). There were no significant differences in age, sex, body mass index, laterality, or follow-up length between groups (P > .05). Allograft was the graft used most frequently (n = 64; 67.3%) with no significant differences between groups in graft diameter (P > .05). There were no statistically significant differences between groups regarding rate of concurrent medial and lateral meniscus, cartilage, or lateral extra-articular procedures (P > .05). There was also no significant66 between-group difference in complication rate (OTT: n = 2 [5.4%]; TD: n = 8 [13%]) or graft failure rate (OTT: n = 4 [11%]; TD: n = 14 [22%]) (P > .05 for both). The results of this study showed notably high failure and complication rates in challenging multiple-revision ACLR. Complication and failure rates were similar between techniques, demonstrating that the OTT technique is a valuable alternative that can be used in a revision ACLR, particularly as a single-stage approach when the single-stage TD technique is not possible.


Localization and quantification of plasma membrane aquaporin expression in maize primary root: a clue to understanding their role as cellular plumbers.
Water movement across root tissues occurs by parallel apoplastic, symplastic, and transcellular pathways that the plant can control to a certain extent. Because water channels or aquaporins (AQPs) play an important role in regulating water flow, studies on AQP mRNA and protein expression in different root tissues are essential. Here, we quantified and localized the expression of Zea mays plasma membrane AQPs (ZmPIPs) in primary root tip using in situ and quantitative RT-PCR and immunodetection approaches. All ZmPIP genes except ZmPIP2;7 were expressed in primary roots. Expression was found to be dependent on the developmental stage of the root, with, in general, an increase in expression towards the elongation and mature zones. Two genes, ZmPIP1;5 and ZmPIP2;5, showed the greatest increase in expression (up to 11- and 17-fold, respectively) in the mature zone, where they accounted for 50% of the total expressed ZmPIPs. The immunocytochemical localization of ZmPIP2;1 and ZmPIP2;5 in the exodermis and endodermis indicated that they are involved in root radial water movement. In addition, we detected a polar localization of ZmPIP2;5 to the external periclinal side of epidermal cells in root apices, suggesting an important role in water uptake from the root surface. Finally, protoplast swelling assays showed that root cells display a variable, but globally low, osmotic water permeability coefficient (Pf < 10 microm/s). However, the presence of a population of cells with a higher Pf (up to 26 microm/s) in mature zone of the root might be correlated with the increased expression of several ZmPIP genes.


Construction of transgenic detection system of Brassica napus L. based on single nucleotide polymorphism chip.
Brassica napus L. is a vital oil crop in China. As auxiliary tools for rapeseed breeding, transgenic technologies play a considerable role in heterosis, variety improvement, and pest resistance. Research on transgenic detection technologies is of great significance for the introduction, supervision, and development of transgenic rapeseed in China. However, the transgenic detection methods currently in use are complex and time-consuming, with low output. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip can effectively overcome such limitations. In the present study, we collected 40 transgenic elements and designed 291 probes. The probe sequences were submitted to Illumina Company, and the Infinium chip technology was used to prepare SNP chips. In the present Brassica napus transgenic detection experiment, 84 high-quality probes of 17 transgenic elements were preliminarily screened, and genotyping effect was optimised for the probe signal value. Ultimately, a transgenic detection system for B. napus was developed. The developed system has the advantages of simple operation, minimal technical errors, and stable detection outcomes. A transgenic detection sensitivity test revealed that the probe designed could accurately detect 1% of transgenic samples and had high detection sensitivity. In addition, in repeatability tests, the CaMV35S promoter coefficient of variation was approximately 3.58%. Therefore, the SNP chip had suitable repeatability in transgene detection. The SNP chip developed could be used to construct transgenic detection systems for B. napus. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13205-021-03062-6.


Blood microRNA expressions in patients with mild to moderate psoriasis and the relationship between microRNAs and psoriasis activity.
In recent studies, microRNAs (mi-RNAs) have been shown to play an important role in psoriasis pathogenesis. However, studies evaluating mi-RNAs in the blood of psoriasis patients including a large number of mi-RNA panels are scarce. The authors aimed to assess mi-RNA expressions in blood samples of psoriasis patients, as well as to evaluate the association between mi-RNA expression and psoriasis severity. This was a case-control study on 52 patients with psoriasis vulgaris and 54 controls. Patients' medical history, psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) scores, and dermatology life quality index (DLQI) scores were recorded. The 42 disease-related mi-RNA primers were assessed by real-time PCR. In the patient group, 13.4% presented nail involvement and 8.2% had psoriatic arthritis. The mean PASI and DLQI scores were 7.90±8.83 and 8.13±5.50, respectively. Among 42 mi-RNA primers; hsa-miR-155-5p, hsa-miR-369-3p, hsa-miR-193b-3p, hsa-miR-498, hsa-miR-1266-5p, hsa-let-7d-5p, hsa-miR-205-5p, hsa-let-7c-5p, hsa-miR-30b-3p, and hsa-miR-515-3p expressions were significantly up-regulated, whereas hsa-miR-21-5p, hsa-miR-142-3p, hsa-miR-424-5p, hsa-miR-223-3p, hsa-miR-26a-5p, hsa-miR-106b-5p, hsa-miR-126-5p, hsa-miR-181a-5p, hsa-miR-222-3p, hsa-miR-22-3p, hsa-miR-24-3p, hsa-miR-17-3p, hsa-miR-30b-5p, hsa-miR-130a-3p, hsa-miR-30e-5p, and hsa-miR-16-5p were significantly down-regulated in psoriasis patients when compared with the control group (p<0.05). As the study included patients with mild to moderate psoriasis who mostly only received topical treatments, changes in miRNA before and after systemic treatments were not assessed. The detection of 24 mi-RNA expressions up- or down-regulated in psoriasis patients, even in those with milder disease, further supports the role of mi-RNAs in the psoriasis pathogenesis. Future studies should clarify whether mi-RNAs can be used as a marker for psoriasis prognosis or as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of psoriasis.


Health-related quality of life in adolescents at the time of diagnosis with osteosarcoma or acute myeloid leukemia.
Although measuring health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in adolescents with cancer helps clinicians to personalize care for their patients, no previous studies have included HRQoL measurement at the time of diagnosis of osteosarcoma (OS) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of measuring adolescents' HRQoL at the time of their diagnosis of OS or AML, and to compare their ratings with those of their parents and of similarly diagnosed but younger patients aged 8-12 years. Participants included 126 patients (79 adolescents) and 130 parents (78 parents of adolescents); most completed the HRQoL instrument/s within 48 h of the first chemotherapy cycle. Ninety-three percent of adolescents diagnosed with OS and 93% of those diagnosed with AML completed the HRQoL instruments. Agreement between the adolescents and their parents ranged from 0.29 to 0.71 (OS) and 0.44 to 0.62 (AML). In all domains, OS adolescents had significantly lower PedsQL v.4.0 scores than adolescents with AML. Our findings demonstrates the feasibility of measuring HRQoL in adolescents with OS or AML (and their parents) at the time of diagnosis, and thus their HRQoL ratings can be used to inform their cancer care from diagnosis forward.


Prevalence and grade of malignancy differences with respect to the area of involvement in multiparametric resonance imaging of the prostate in the diagnosis of prostate cancer using the PI-RADS version 2 classification.
The peripheral zone is histologically different from the transitional zone. The aim of this study is to analyze the differences between the prevalence and grade of malignancy of mpMRI-targeted biopsies that involve the TZ with respect to the PZ. A cross-sectional study of 597 men evaluated for PC screening between February 2016 and October 2022 was conducted. Exclusion criteria were prior BPH surgery, radiotherapy, 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors treatment, UTI, mixed involvement of PZ-TZ or doubts, and central-zone involvement. Hypothesis contrast test was used to study differences proportions of malignancy (ISUP > 0) and significant (ISUP > 1) and high-grade tumor (ISUP > 3) in PI-RADSv2 > 2-targeted biopsies in PZ with respect to TZ, and logistic regression and hypothesis contrast tests were used to study the influence of the area of exposure as an effect-modifying factor in the diagnosis of malignancy with respect to the PI-RADSv2 classification. 473 patients were selected and 573 lesions biopsied (127 PI-RADS3, 346 PI-RADS4 and 100 PI-RADS5). A significant increase was described in the proportion of malignancy and significant and high-grade tumor in PZ compared to TZ (22.6%, 21.3%, and 8.7%, respectively). Significant increase in proportions and malignancy were described in cores targeted to PZ with respect to TZ, highlight the differences between PZ and TZ for ST (37.3%vs23.7% for PI-RADS4, 69.2%vs27.3% for PI-RADS5, respectively). Statistically significant linear trend was described increasing for malignancy, significant and high-grade tumors with respect to the PI-RADSv2 scores (change > 10%). Although the prevalence and grade of malignancy in the TZ is lower than in the PZ, PI-RADS4 and 5-targeted biopsies should not be omitted in this location, but PI-RADS3 could be.


Does external funding help adaptation? Evidence from community-based water management in the Colombian Andes.
Despite debate regarding whether, and in what form, communities need external support for adaptation to environmental change, few studies have examined how external funding impacts adaptation decisions in rural resource-dependent communities. In this article, we use quantitative and qualitative methods to assess how different funding sources influence the initiative to adapt to water scarcity in the Colombian Andes. We compare efforts to adapt to water scarcity in 111 rural Andean communities with varied dependence on external funding for water management activities. Findings suggest that despite efforts to use their own internal resources, communities often need external support to finance adaptation strategies. However, not all external financial support positively impacts a community's abilities to adapt. Results show the importance of community-driven requests for external support. In cases where external support was unsolicited, the results show a decline, or "crowding-out," in community efforts to adapt. In contrast, in cases where communities initiated the request for external support to fund their own projects, findings show that external intervention is more likely to enhance or "crowds-in" community-driven adaptation.


Statistical-based system combination approach to gain advantages over different machine translation systems.
Every machine translation system has some advantages. We propose an improved statistical system combination approach to achieve the advantages of existing machine translation systems. The primary task is to score all the phrases of the outputs of different machine translation systems selected for combination. Three steps are involved in the proposed statistical system combination approach, viz., alignment, decoding, and scoring. Pair alignment is done in the first step to prevent duplication so that only a single phrase is chosen from various phrases containing the same information. Thus the alignment and scoring strategy are implemented in our approach. Hypotheses are built in the second step. In the third step, we calculate the scores for all the hypotheses. The hypothesis with the highest score is chosen as the final translated output. Wrong scoring can mislead to identify the best part from different systems. It may be noted that a particular phrase may appear in various ways in different translations. To resolve the challenges, we incorporate WordNet in the alignment phase and word2vec in the scoring phase along with the existing factors. We find that the system combination model using WordNet and word2vec injection improves the machine translation accuracy. In this work, we have merged three systems viz., Hierarchical machine translation system, Bing Microsoft Translate, and Google Translate. The broad tests of translation on eight language pairs with benchmark datasets demonstrate that the proposed system achieves better quality than the individual systems and the state-of-the-art system combination models.


Risky decision-making in suicide attempters, and the choice of a violent suicidal means: an updated meta-analysis.
Studies showed disadvantageous decision-making in suicide attempters. The present meta-analysis aims to examine the stability of these findings and related questions. EMBASE and Pubmed databases were searched for studies published between 01/01/2000 and 01/01/2020 with an additional search through bibliographical references. English or French articles published in peer-reviewed journals, reporting quantitative task-based measures of decision-making in suicide attempters were included: 3,582 records were identified, 33 full-text articles screened, and 21 articles finally included. All studies were conducted in mood disorders; 18 used the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT) and 3 the Cambridge Gamble Task (CGT). With the IGT, suicide attempters showed riskier choices than patient controls (Hedges' g=-0.28 95%CI (-0.44 - -0.12)) and healthy controls (g=-0.54 (-0.83 - -0.25)) with no significant difference between control groups. The difference between suicide attempters and patient controls was not related to age group, mood disorder type, author, or research center while an effect of time of publication was found (p=0.006). Poorer performance was also found in suicide attempters compared to patient controls when using the CGT (g=-0.57 95%CI (-0.82 - -0.31)). Suicide attempters who used a violent means showed poorer IGT performance than those who used a non-violent means (3 studies). Limited number of studies outside mood disorders. No data to calculate a gender effect. The present meta-analysis confirmed riskier decision-making in suicide attempters. Although group differences appear to be of modest effect size in general, they were particularly marked in the subgroup of those who used a violent suicidal means.


Immune System Disorders, Cancer and Viral Infections: A New Treatment Opportunity for the Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors.
The relationship between viral infections and cancer is well known and has been established for decades. Multiple tumours are generated from alterations secondary to viral infections 2 resulting from a dysregulation of the immune system in many cases. Certain causal relationships, such as that between the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in nasopharyngeal cancer or hepatitis C and B viruses in hepatocarcinoma, have been clearly established, and their implications for the prognosis and treatment of solid tumours are currently unknown. Multiple studies have evaluated the role that these infections may have in the treatment of solid tumours using immunotherapy. A possible relationship between viral infections and an increased response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has been established at a theoretical level in solid neoplasms, such as EBV-positive cavum cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV)-positive and oropharyngeal cancer. These could yield a greater response associated with the activation of the immune system secondary to viral infection, the consequence of which is an increase in survival in these patients. That is why the objective of this review is to assess the different studies or clinical trials carried out in patients with solid tumours secondary to viral infections and their relationship to the response to ICIs.


Disruption of Annexin II /p11 Interaction Suppresses Leukemia Cell Binding, Homing and Engraftment, and Sensitizes the Leukemia Cells to Chemotherapy.
The bone marrow microenvironment plays an important role in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell proliferation, maintenance, and resistance to chemotherapy. Annexin II (ANX2) is abundantly expressed on bone marrow cells and complexes with p11 to form ANX2/p11-hetero-tetramer (ANX2T). We present evidence that p11 is upregulated in refractory ALL cell lines and patient samples. A small molecule inhibitor that disrupts ANX2/p11 interaction (ANX2T inhibitor), an anti-ANX2 antibody, and knockdown of p11, abrogated ALL cell adhesion to osteoblasts, indicating that ANX2/p11 interaction facilitates binding and retention of ALL cells in the bone marrow. Furthermore, ANX2T inhibitor increased the sensitivity of primary ALL cells co-cultured with osteoblasts to dexamethasone and vincristine induced cell death. Finally, in an orthotopic leukemia xenograft mouse model, the number of ALL cells homing to the bone marrow was reduced by 40-50% in mice injected with anti-ANX2 antibody, anti-p11 antibody or ANX2T inhibitor compared to respective controls. In a long-term engraftment assay, the percentage of ALL cells in mouse blood, bone marrow and spleen was reduced in mice treated with agents that disrupt ANX2/p11 interaction. These data show that disruption of ANX2/p11 interaction results in reduced ALL cell adhesion to osteoblasts, increased ALL cell sensitization to chemotherapy, and suppression of ALL cell homing and engraftment.


Chilled storage of semen from Atlantic halibut, Hippoglossus hippoglossus L. II: effect of spermiation advancement, catheterization of semen, and production-scale application.
A method for in vitro storage of Atlantic halibut Hippoglossus hippoglossus L. semen can facilitate seed production. The study aimed at determining the effect of male spermiation advancement on viability of chilled stored spermatozoa. The use of catheterization of semen from the sperm duct was examined. Also, large volumes of semen were stored under sub-optimal production-like conditions in order to determine the suitability of the method into practical use. Semen was collected from two broodstocks: natural photoperiod males, being at the first phase of the reproductive season and 3-month advanced photoperiod males, being at the end of the reproductive season. Semen samples were diluted 1:5 (v/v) with modified Hanks' Balanced Salt Solution supplemented with antibiotics, and stored in Ziploc bags filled with air. Sperm motility parameters, assessed by computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA), were assessed weekly. Experimental and production-scale fertilization trials were performed. Sperm samples from natural photoperiod males showed significantly longer viability under in vitro storage conditions than sperm from advanced photoperiod males. In the natural photoperiod group, the decrease in spermatozoa motility, curvilinear velocity and straight-line velocity occurred on day 50, 14, and 28 of storage, respectively. Spermatozoa from one of five males were still motile on day 80 of storage, and fertilization rates and embryo survival rates obtained using semen stored for 70 days did not differ from control values and they were significantly higher than values obtained with the use of fresh semen of the same male, but being at the end of reproductive season. Catheterization of semen showed no advantage to stripping the semen without a catheter, even for samples stored undiluted for 1 day of collection, before dilution. Under sub-optimal conditions, spermatozoa stored in large volumes (10-100mL of diluted semen) without any special treatments except for weekly swirling, remained viable for more than 1 month. Production-scale fertilizations with samples stored for 5-21 days resulted in high survivals of embryos and hatchlings. Because of its simplicity and efficiency, the method shows a high potential for use in commercial Atlantic halibut farming. It has already been applied to a halibut breeding programme for the next reproductive season at our research station.


Binding characteristics of humic substances with Cu and Zn in response to inorganic mineral additives during swine manure composting.
Composting is suitable for recycling livestock manure into valuable organic fertilizer, which can improve soil quality while mitigating potential risk of heavy metal pollution. Humic substances (HS) in compost have been demonstrated to play a key role in regulating the redistribution of heavy metal fractions. However, limited direct information have been reported on how different components of HS complexes with heavy metals to affect their bioavailability during composting. In this study, sequential extraction procedures (H2O, KCl, Na4P2O7, NaOH and HNO3) were used to assess the characteristics that HS bound with Cu and Zn during composting of swine manure and straw added either 5% boron waste (BW) or 5% phosphate rock (PR). Organically complexed fraction extracted by Na4P2O7 contained only 33-41% of the Cu but most of the Zn (81-87%). During composting, initially mobile fractions of Cu and Zn (extracted by H2O or KCl) changed into more stable fractions (extracted by NaOH and HNO3), and both organic matter and fulvic acids (FA) were identified as critical factors to explain this redistribution based on redundancy analysis. Over 80% of Cu and Zn were complexed with FA of HS. However, exogenous additives (phosphate rock and boron waste) enhanced Cu conversion by promoting humification (Humic acid/Fulvic acids, HA/FA) whereas they had limited influence on Zn, due to the relatively weak binding relationship between Zn and HA.


Human EEG slow-wave sleep increased by a serotonin antagonist.
Serotonin has been held to play a necessary role in EEG slow-wave sleep. A central serotonin antagonist, known as FU 29-245, 200 mg, was taken nightly for 6 nights by 10 volunteers, mean age 59 years. Compared with baseline sleep the drug significantly increased the duration of slow-wave sleep, with a significant rebound decrease below baseline after withdrawal. The drug also caused fewer transitions into stage 1 and less time in stage 1 and less time in stage 2. There were significant tolerance effects by the fifth and sixth nights. No subjective effects were present.


Anoxic dissolution of troilite in acidic media.
The anoxic dissolution of troilite (FeS) in acidic medium has been investigated at 50 degrees C using batch dissolution experiments. Two different progress variables were followed during solid dissolution, i.e., the amounts of dissolved iron (nFe) and formed hydrogen sulfide (n(H(2)S)). The experimental studies performed at hydrogen ion concentrations ([H+]) ranging from 0.04 to 0.2 mol L(-1) showed that anoxic dissolution of troilite is dependent on [H+]. The cumulative release of both Fe and H2S could be described by a diffusion-like rate law, with rate constants for Fe (k(p)(Fe) always greater than for H2S (k(p)(H2S). The surplus of dissolved iron over formed hydrogen sulfide was quantified by the n(Fe):n(H2S) ratio, and ranged from 1.21 to 1.46, higher than the specific n(Fe):n(H2S) ratio of troilite bulk, i.e., 1. Rate constants are linearly related to the pH with a slope of 0.66 +/- 0.23 (n(Fe)) or 0.63 +/- 0.13 (n(H2S)). The obtained results suggest that troilite anoxic dissolution is a process controlled by the diffusion of the reaction products across an obstructive layer, sulfur-rich layer (SRL), having a thickness that increases during reaction progress. The accumulation of H2S between the surface and the SRL, eventually leads to the mechanical destruction of this outer layer, a process that results an increased flux of reaction products.


Validity of total and segmental impedance measurements for prediction of body composition across ethnic population groups.
To test the impact of body build factors on the validity of impedance-based body composition predictions across (ethnic) population groups and to study the suitability of segmental impedance measurements. Cross-sectional observational study. Ministry of Health and School of Physical Education, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. A total of 291 female and male Chinese, Malays and Indian Singaporeans, aged 18-69, body mass index (BMI) 16.0-40.2 kg/ m2. Anthropometric parameters were measured in addition to impedance (100 kHz) of the total body, arms and legs. Impedance indexes were calculated as height2/impedance. Arm length (span) and leg length (sitting height), wrist and knee width were measured from which body build indices were calculated. Total body water (TBW) was measured using deuterium oxide dilution. Extra cellular water (ECW) was measured using bromide dilution. Body fat percentage was determined using a chemical four-compartment model. The bias of TBW predicted from total body impedance index (bias: measured minus predicted TBW) was different among the three ethnic groups, TBW being significantly underestimated in Indians compared to Chinese and Malays. This bias was found to be dependent on body water distribution (ECW/TBW) and parameters of body build, mainly relative (to height) arm length. After correcting for differences in body water distribution and body build parameters the differences in bias across the ethnic groups disappeared. The impedance index using total body impedance was better correlated with TBW than the impedance index of arm or leg impedance, even after corrections for body build parameters. The study shows that ethnic-specific bias of impedance-based prediction formulas for body composition is due mainly to differences in body build among the ethnic groups. This means that the use of 'general' prediction equations across different (ethnic) population groups without prior testing of their validity should be avoided. Total body impedance has higher predictive value than segmental impedance.


Correction to: Bioconversion of arachidonic acid into human 14,15-hepoxilin B3 and 13,14,15-trioxilin B3 by recombinant cells expressing microbial 15-lipoxygenase without and with epoxide hydrolase.
In the original publication of the article, some chirality of Fig. 1 was published incorrectly. The corrected figure is provided below.


The effect of short-term vitamin E against radioiodine-induced early lacrimal gland damage.
Radioiodine (RAI) is a well-known radionuclide which is used in vivo both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, particularly for the treatment of hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer. Vitamin E is a well-known antioxidant vitamin. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether there was a protective effect of short-term vitamin E on RAI-induced lacrimal gland early damage in experimental animal models. Twentyfour rats were randomly divided into two groups. The first group (RAI group) was administreted 3 mCi (131)I by gastric gavage and 1 mL physiological saline intraperitoneally. The second group (RAI + Vitamin E) was administrated 3 mCi (131)I by gastric gavage and 1 mL vitamin E intraperitoneally. After 24 h of the last dose being administered on the 7th day, the animals were decapitated. The lacrimal glands [Intraorbital (IG), extraorbital (EG) and harderian glands (HG)] of the rats were removed for histopathological examination. Periductal and/or periacinar fibrosis in all lacrimal glands were observed to be statistically significantly less frequent in the RAI + Vitamin E group compared to the RAI group. The existence of the abnormal lobular pattern and peripheral basophilia and irregular nucleus shape in IG and in EG, the poorly defined acidophilic cell outline and periductal infiltration in IG and in HG were observed to be statistically significantly less frequent in the RAI + Vitamin E group than in the RAI group. According to study results, histopathological examinations revealed that vitamin E protects rat lacrimal glands against RAI-related early damage.


A new approach to heel ulcers: dorsalis pedis neurovascular trans-interosseous island flap.
The most important requisite in the care of ulcers in the heel region is replacement skin cover with adequate sensation. The dorsalis pedis flap appears adequate, but the anterior subcutaneous approach gives a pedicle of inadequate length to enable the flap to reach the most important posterior weight-bearing area. It was therefore decided to short-circuit the course of the pedicle by passing the whole flap through the interosseous membrane between the tibia and the fibula to enable the flap to reach the weight-bearing area without tension. After 10 meticulous cadaver and two post-traumatic limb dissections with angiographic confirmation, it appeared that such a flap was feasible and would satisfy all basic requirements. Clinically this technique was tried in two patients who were provided with sensate, well padded skin cover for the whole of the heel region.


Sedimentary microbial oxygen demand for laminar flow over a sediment bed of finite length.
Dead organic material accumulated on the bed of a lake, reservoir or wetland often provides the substrate for substantial microbial activity as well as chemical processes that withdraw dissolved oxygen (DO) from the water column. A model to estimate the actual DO profile and the "sedimentary oxygen demand (SOD)" must specify the rate of microbial or chemical activity in the sediment as well as the diffusive supply of DO from the water column through the diffusive boundary layer into the sediment. Most previous experimental and field studies have considered this problem with the assumptions that the diffusive boundary layer is (a) turbulent and (b) fully developed. These assumptions require that (a) the flow velocity above the sediment bed is fast enough to produce turbulent mixing in the boundary layer, and (b) the sediment bed is long. In this paper a model for laminar flow and SOD over a sediment bed of finite length is presented and the results are compared with those for turbulent flow. Laminar flow near a sediment bed is encountered in quiescent water bodies such as lakes, reservoirs, river backwaters, wetlands and ponds under calm wind conditions. The diffusive oxygen transfer through the laminar diffusive boundary layer above the sediment surface can restrict the microbial or chemical oxygen uptake inside the sediment significantly. The developing laminar diffusive boundary layer above the sediment/water interface is modeled based on the analogy with heat transfer, and DO uptake inside the sediment is modeled by Michaelis-Menten microbial growth kinetics. The model predicts that the rate of SOD at the beginning of the reactive sediment bed is solely dependent on microbial density in the sediment regardless of flow velocity and type. The rate of SOD, and the DO penetration depth into the sediment decrease in stream-wise direction over the length of the sediment bed, as the diffusive boundary layer above the sediment/water interface thickens. With increasing length of the sediment bed both SOD rate and DO penetration depth into the sediment tend towards zero if the flow is laminar, but tend towards a finite value if the flow is turbulent. That value can be determined as a function of both flow velocity and microbial density. The effect of the developing laminar boundary layer on SOD is strongest at the very lowest flow velocity and/or highest microbial density inside the sediment. Under quiescent conditions, the effective SOD exerted by a reactive sediment bed of a lake or wetland approaches zero, i.e. no or very little oxygen demand is exerted on the overlying water column, except at the leading edge.


Effects of Spectral Degradation on Attentional Modulation of Cortical Auditory Responses to Continuous Speech.
This study investigates the effect of spectral degradation on cortical speech encoding in complex auditory scenes. Young normal-hearing listeners were simultaneously presented with two speech streams and were instructed to attend to only one of them. The speech mixtures were subjected to noise-channel vocoding to preserve the temporal envelope and degrade the spectral information of speech. Each subject was tested with five spectral resolution conditions (unprocessed speech, 64-, 32-, 16-, and 8-channel vocoder conditions) and two target-to-masker ratio (TMR) conditions (3 and 0 dB). Ongoing electroencephalographic (EEG) responses and speech comprehension were measured in each spectral and TMR condition for each subject. Neural tracking of each speech stream was characterized by cross-correlating the EEG responses with the envelope of each of the simultaneous speech streams at different time lags. Results showed that spectral degradation and TMR both significantly influenced how top-down attention modulated the EEG responses to the attended and unattended speech. That is, the EEG responses to the attended and unattended speech streams differed more for the higher (unprocessed, 64 ch, and 32 ch) than the lower (16 and 8 ch) spectral resolution conditions, as well as for the higher (3 dB) than the lower TMR (0 dB) condition. The magnitude of differential neural modulation responses to the attended and unattended speech streams significantly correlated with speech comprehension scores. These results suggest that severe spectral degradation and low TMR hinder speech stream segregation, making it difficult to employ top-down attention to differentially process different speech streams.


Unsupervised discovery of dynamic cell phenotypic states from transmitted light movies.
Identification of cell phenotypic states within heterogeneous populations, along with elucidation of their switching dynamics, is a central challenge in modern biology. Conventional single-cell analysis methods typically provide only indirect, static phenotypic readouts. Transmitted light images, on the other hand, provide direct morphological readouts and can be acquired over time to provide a rich data source for dynamic cell phenotypic state identification. Here, we describe an end-to-end deep learning platform, UPSIDE (Unsupervised Phenotypic State IDEntification), for discovering cell states and their dynamics from transmitted light movies. UPSIDE uses the variational auto-encoder architecture to learn latent cell representations, which are then clustered for state identification, decoded for feature interpretation, and linked across movie frames for transition rate inference. Using UPSIDE, we identified distinct blood cell types in a heterogeneous dataset. We then analyzed movies of patient-derived acute myeloid leukemia cells, from which we identified stem-cell associated morphological states as well as the transition rates to and from these states. UPSIDE opens up the use of transmitted light movies for systematic exploration of cell state heterogeneity and dynamics in biology and medicine.


Successful COVID-19 Contact Tracing of Crew from Two Cargo Ships at the Morowali Seaport, Indonesia.
This study aims to report a successful systematic quarantine of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) to detect Omicron, a new variant of concern, among 2 cargo ships in the Morowali seaport, Indonesia. An international standard entry point protocol had been followed in this study for all crew. Rapid diagnostic tests and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) tests have been conducted to identify Omicron, the variant of concern. Individual characteristics, laboratory result, and vaccine status were collected in this study. On December 9 and 18, 2021, there was an increase of 21 and 22 new cases, respectively, from 2 ships in the seaport. Both ships came from abroad, 43 new cases with a positivity rate increase from 0 to 13.4% and 13.7% within 2 weeks. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) examination was carried out on all crews and obtained results 21 of the 22 positive COVID-19 crew (95.5%). The monitoring results showed that there was no fever in the entire crew, no symptoms of cough, runny nose, shortness of breath, and other symptoms pointing to COVID-19. Systematic quarantine has successfully contained the large clusters of COVID-19 in the crews of 2 ships and prevented further outbreaks in the local community.


Mechanism overview and target mining of atherosclerosis: Endothelial cell injury in atherosclerosis is regulated by glycolysis (Review).
Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic disease with a complex pathology that may lead to several cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases; however, further research is necessary to fully elucidate its pathogenesis. The main risk factors for AS include lipid metabolism disorders, endothelial cell injury, inflammation and immune dysfunction, among which vascular endothelial cell damage is considered as the main trigger for AS occurrence and development. Endothelial cell damage leads to enhanced intimal permeability and leukocyte adhesion, promoting thrombus formation and accelerating disease progression. The function of endothelial cells is affected by glycolysis regulation, since 80% of ATP in these cells is produced via this pathway. Genes associated with AS and endothelial cell glycolysis, including AKT1, interleukin‑6, vascular endothelial growth factor A, TP53, signal transducer and activator of transcription 3, SRC and mitogen‑activated protein kinase 1, were screened. Through integrated analysis, these genes were found to play a key role in AS by regulating multiple signaling pathways associated with cell signal transduction, energy metabolism, immune function and thrombosis. In conclusion, endothelial cell injury in AS may be alleviated by glycolysis and is a potential clinical treatment strategy for AS.


Low dielectric, nanoporous fluorinated polyimide films prepared from PCL-PI-PCL triblock copolymer using retro-Diels-Alder reaction.
The triblock copolymers with the majority phase comprising fluorinated polyimide and the minor phase consisting of poly (ε-caprolactone) (PCL) were synthesized through Diels-Alder reaction between PI-Maleimide and PCL-Furfuryl Amine. The chemical composition and structure of the copolymers were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), gel permeation chromatography (GPC), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Films of the copolymers were spined and microphase-separation of the thin film was achieved by solvent annealing in N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) vapor. The microphase-separation morphology was investigated by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Based on the microphase-separation structures, nanoporous fluorinated polyimide films were obtained after removal of the PCL block can removed via a retro-DA (Diels-Alder) reaction using a simple heating and immersing procedure. The nanoporous thin film was characterized by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The dielectric property of the nanoporous fluorinated polyimide films was investigated. It was found that the nanopores introduction could effectively reduce the dielectric constant from 2.82 of PI dense films to 2.10 of nanoporous PI films.


Thyroid hormone modulates apolipoprotein B gene expression in HepG2 cells.
We have investigated the modulation of apolipoprotein B gene expression in HepG2 cells by thyroid hormone. ApoB secretion rate in serum-free media was found to be significantly increased in the presence of the hormone in long-term cultures (48 h, 37%). This stimulatory effect was dose-dependent. The mechanisms underlying the stimulatory effect of triiodothyronine on apoB production were investigated. Triiodothyronine increased apoB mRNA levels by about 25-36% as determined by slot- and Northern-blot analysis of total RNA. ApoB synthesis rate was also found to be increased both in in vivo pulse-chase experiments (61%) and in in vitro translation studies (54.5%). Despite the 54.5-61% increase in apoB synthesis with triiodothyronine, only a 30% increase in apoB secretion was noted suggesting that part of the increase in the intracellular apoB pool may be lost by degradation. Overall, apoB gene expression appears to be modulated by thyroid hormone at both transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels.


Properties of phosphorylated 32 kd nonamelogenin proteins isolated from porcine secretory enamel.
Enamel proteins were isolated from specific locations of permanent porcine incisors at various developmental stages, namely, the outer (young) and inner (old) secretory, and maturing (chalk-like in appearance) enamel. The selective adsorption of these matrix proteins onto hydroxyapatite (HA) crystals was investigated in the presence of dissociative agents. The results showed that the proteins with the highest adsorption affinity were present at the highest concentration in the vicinity of the ameloblasts, i.e., in the outer enamel layer; a substantial reduction of these proteins was observed in the older (inner) secretory enamel and in the tissue in the maturing stage. An interesting finding was that a group of proteins having molecular masses of 32 kd present only in the inner secretory enamel, adsorbed strongly onto the HA crystals and were potent inhibitors of HA crystal growth. This 32 kd group contains phosphorylated glycoproteins; they are rich in Pro, Glu, Gly, and Asp and the N-terminal sequence was LXQVPGRIPPGYGRPPTP-, having no resemblance to the reported sequences of amelogenins. It was also found that the 32 kd moieties remained only as trace constituents in the maturing enamel, suggesting that most of them were removed as soluble constituents in the tissue fluid or further degraded by enzymatic activity during the late secretory stage. The results obtained support the view that amelogenetic mineralization is regulated by the presence of various organic matter and, importantly, that their efficacy as inhibitors of mineralization may be modulated through their degradation.


First record on Loxosceles laeta (Nicolet, 1849) (Araneae, Sicariidae) in the West Zone of São Paulo City, São Paulo, Brazil, and considerations regarding its geographic distribution.
Loxosceles laeta spiders were captured in the West zone of São Paulo City, this being the first record of the specie in this area. Since loxoscelism is an important public health problem in the South region of Brazil, it is necessary to investigate the presence of this spider in São Paulo City.


Studies of the metabolic fate of p-hydroxybenzoic acid in male and female cats.
Metabolic studies conducted on p-hydroxybenzoic acid orally administered at dose levels of 13 and 26 mg/kg to male and female cats have shown that the compound is rapidly excreted in the urine exclusively in the form of the glycine conjugate p-hydroxyhippuric acid. Similar results were obtained following either single administration or 7-day treatment. The metabolite in the urine was characterised by thin-layer chromatography, amino acid analysis and mass spectrometry.


A fatal presentation of dermatomyositis with facial swelling.
Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is the most common inflammatory autoimmune myopathy in children. Most common presentations consist of heliotrophic rash and/or gottron's papules in addition to proximal muscle weakness. A typical presentations have been reported. We present a 13-year-old African American male who presented with a two-week history of bilateral periorbital edema that was unresponsive to glucocorticoids. He had elevated transaminases but no detectable muscle weakness. A muscle biopsy was consistent with juvenile dermatomyositis. This case highlights the need to consider dermatomyositis in cases of facial swelling and the use of aggressive immunosuppressive therapies due to its associated vasculopathies.


Complete Genomic Sequences of an H3N8 Equine Influenza Virus Strain Isolated in China.
We report the complete genomic sequence of A/equine/Heilongjiang/1/2010, a strain of Florida sublineage clade 2 of H3N8 subtype equine influenza virus (EIV) isolated in northern China. This is the first announcement of a complete genomic sequence of EIV of such a clade in China.


Independent effects of liver disease and chronic alcoholism on thyroid function and size: the possibility of a toxic effect of alcohol on the thyroid gland.
In an autopsy study we found thyroid volume significantly decreased in alcoholics with liver cirrhosis as compared to matched controls: 15 mL (range, 7 to 37 mL) v 25 mL (range, 13 to 90 mL) (P less than .01). At the same time the amount of fibrosis of the thyroid glands was higher in the alcoholics as compared to the matched controls: 20% (range, 6% to 40%) v 12% (range, 6% to 23%) (P less than .01). In order to evaluate the relative importance of alcohol consumption and liver disease on thyroid function and ultrasonically determined size, three groups of patients and matched controls (sex, age, weight, and smoking habits) were investigated: group 1, 18 patients with nonalcoholic liver cirrhosis; group 2, 21 consecutive chronic alcoholics (greater than 100 g of alcohol daily for greater than 5 years) without liver cirrhosis (all had biopsy proven fatty change or normal liver); group 3, 31 nonalcoholic patients with chronic nonhepatic, nonrenal disease. In group 1 median thyroid volume and serum FT4I, FT3I, and TSH levels were unchanged compared with the controls. In group 2 median thyroid volume was 13 mL (range, 9 to 32 mL) compared with 27 mL (range, 12 to 44 mL) in the controls (P less than .005). Serum T3 and FT3I levels were reduced, while T4, FT4I, and TSH levels were unaltered. In group 3 serum T3 and FT3I levels were reduced while serum FT4I and TSH levels and thyroid volume were unaltered compared with the controls. It is suggested that alcohol may have a toxic effect on the thyroid gland independent of the degree of liver damage.


Temporal arteritis and renal disease. Case report and review of the literature.
Renal abnormalities have been described in a small percentage of patients with temporal arteritis. Transient microscopic hematuria is the most common finding. In rare instances, widespread vasculitis involving renal arteries or microscopic polyarteritis nodosa can be seen. This case report describes the association of temporal arteritis with membranous glomerulonephropathy and the nephrotic syndrome in an elderly patient, an occurrence not previously reported. Whether this association is coincidental or pathogenetically linked remains to be determined.


Challenging times: prevalence of psychiatric disorders and suicidal behaviours in Irish adolescents.
Against a background of a lack of systematic epidemiological research in Ireland in the area, this study set out to determine prevalence rates of psychiatric disorders, suicidal ideation and intent, and parasuicide in a population of Irish adolescents aged 12-15 years in a defined geographical area. All 12-15-year olds attending eight secondary schools were eligible for inclusion. A two-stage procedure was used involving a screening and an interview phase. Those scoring in the clinical range on the screening measures were interviewed, along with a comparison group matched for gender, school and school year. 19.4% of the 723 screened were identified as being 'at risk'. This 'at risk' group was interviewed along with a comparison sample. 15.6% of the total study population met the criteria for a current psychiatric disorder, including 4.5% with an affective disorder, 3.7% with an anxiety disorder and 3.7% with ADHD. Significant past suicidal ideation was experienced by 1.9%, and 1.5% had a history of parasuicide. Binge drinking was associated with both affective and behaviour disorders. Rates of psychiatric disorders and suicidal behaviours are similar in young Irish adolescents to those in other Western cultures. Mental health promotion should be given priority in schools.


Melatonin reversed tumor necrosis factor-alpha-inhibited osteogenesis of human mesenchymal stem cells by stabilizing SMAD1 protein.
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) plays a pivotal role in inflammation-related osteoporosis through the promotion of bone resorption and suppression of bone formation. Numerous drugs have been produced to treat osteoporosis by inhibiting bone resorption, but they offer few benefits to bone formation, which is what is needed by patients with severe bone loss. Melatonin, which can exert both anti-inflammatory and pro-osteogenic effects, shows promise in overcoming TNFα-inhibited osteogenesis and deserves further research. This study demonstrated that melatonin rescued TNFα-inhibited osteogenesis of human mesenchymal stem cells and that the interactions between SMURF1 and SMAD1 mediated the crosstalk between melatonin signaling and TNFα signaling. Additionally, melatonin treatment was found to downregulate TNFα-induced SMURF1 expression and then decrease SMURF1-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of SMAD1 protein, leading to steady bone morphogenetic protein-SMAD1 signaling activity and restoration of TNFα-impaired osteogenesis. Thus, melatonin has prospects for treating osteoporosis caused by inflammatory factors due to its multifaceted functions on regulation of bone formation, bone resorption, and inflammation. Further studies will focus on unveiling the specific mechanisms by which melatonin downregulates SMURF1 expression and confirming the clinical therapeutic value of melatonin in the prevention and therapy of bone loss associated with inflammation.


Conformation of corticotropin. An infrared spectrometry study of hydrogen exchange kinetics.
1H--2H exchange kinetics of the peptide hydrogens in corticotropin have been examined in 2H2O and CF3C2H2O2H solutions by means of infrared absorption measurements. In aqueous solution, around pH 3, the experimental data suggest a partially ordered structure, since in the two corticotropins 1--24 and 1--32 about 6 slowly exchanging peptide protons are numbered. These might belong to the N-terminal part of the molecule. The C-terminal 25--32 octapeptide segment appears to be unordered and slightly destabilizes the overall hormone conformation. For corticotropin1--24 in CF3C2H2O2H, the qualitative interpretation of infrared spectra and the quantitative analysis of exchange data give evidence of a strong stabilization: a predominantly alpha-helical structure is induced by trifluoroethanol.


Accurate interpretation of genetic variants in sudden unexpected death in infancy by trio-targeted gene-sequencing panel analysis.
In sudden unexpected death in infancy cases, postmortem genetic analysis with next-generation sequencing potentially can extract candidate genes associated with sudden death. However, it is difficult to accurately interpret the clinically significant genetic variants. The study aim was to conduct trio analysis of cases of sudden unexpected death in infancy and their parents to more accurately interpret the clinically significant disease-associated gene variants associated with cause of death. From the TruSight One panel targeting 4813 genes we extracted candidate genetic variants of 66 arrhythmia-, 63 inherited metabolic disease-, 81 mitochondrial disease-, and 6 salt-losing tubulopathy-related genes in 7 cases and determined if they were de novo or parental-derived variants. Thirty-four parental-derived variants and no de novo variants were found, but none appeared to be related to the cause of death. Using trio analysis and an in silico algorithm to analyze all 4813 genes, we identified OBSCN of compound heterozygous and HCCS of hemizygous variants as new candidate genetic variants related to cause of death. Genetic analysis of these deceased infants and their living parents can provide more accurate interpretation of the clinically significant genetic variants than previously possible and help confirm the cause of death.


Mycoplasma contamination in human leukemia cell lines. II. Elimination with various antibiotics.
19 suspension cell lines were treated with antibiotics for elimination of chronic contamination with mycoplasma. We compared the efficiency, cytotoxicity and cross-resistance of the commercially available antibiotics MRA (Mycoplasma Removal Agent, a quinolone derivative and DNA gyrase inhibitor), Ciprobay (ciprofloxacin, also a quinolone derivative and DNA gyrase inhibitor), and BM-cyclin (a combination of tiamulin, a pleuromutilin derivative, and minocycline, a tetracycline derivative, both inhibitors of protein synthesis on ribosomes). Contaminants were eliminated in all 19 cell lines by BM-Cyclin. Only 74% of the cell lines were cleared of contamination by both MRA and Ciprobay. Successful treatment was monitored by three mycoplasma detection assays. Cross-resistance was noted between MRA and Ciprobay in four of the five cell lines not cleared by either reagent. This resistance could, however, be overcome by consecutive exposure to BM-cyclin. Employed at the recommended concentrations, the antibiotics did not cause marked cytotoxicity, but the growth of the cells was affected to various degrees by some antibiotics. The elimination of mycoplasma from chronically contaminated cell lines is an effective alternative to other treatment protocols, but is cost-intensive and time-consuming; lasting damaging effects of the treatments on the eukaryotic cells cannot be excluded. Long-term post-treatment monitoring is mandatory, since contaminants may only be suppressed and then recur.


Histological examination of bone regeneration achieved by combining grafting with hydroxyapatite and thermoplastic bioresorbable plates.
In this study, we present a novel guided bone regeneration (GBR) concept that consists of combining Boneject, a bone substitute containing atelocollagen and bovine hydroxyapatite particles, with thermoplastic, bioresorbable plates (DeltaSystem) known to resist mechanical loading. In rat calvariae, standardized bone defects were filled with Boneject and covered with a convex DeltaSystem plate. Tissue from rats at 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks postoperation were fixed with an aldehyde solution, and the new bone formed at the defects was histologically assessed. At 1 week, alkaline phosphatase (ALP)-negative cells deriving from the bottom region of the defect could be found up to half the height of the cavity. Boneject particle surfaces in the bottom region revealed an intense osteopontin immunopositivity whereas those in the upper region did not. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive osteoclasts accumulated on the surfaces of osteopontin-coated particles. A newly formed, woven-like bone featuring ALP-positive osteoblasts extended from the native bone. At the second week, the newly formed woven bone had surrounded the Boneject particles. Cement lines, which indicate active bone remodeling, could be observed in the new bone despite its immaturity. Four weeks after surgery, the new bone had reached the height of the DeltaSystem plate, and just beneath it a periostin-positive fibrous layer covered the mix of new bone and Boneject particles. By then, despite having acceptable histological features, electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analyses revealed that the new bone could not be regarded as compact bone. At 8 and 12 weeks, the new bone showed compact bone-like features according to TEM and EPMA assessments. Summarizing, the combination of a bone substitute such as Boneject and a rigid, bioresorbable plate appears to be osteoconductive and to promote bone remodeling, leading to the genesis of a tissue similar to the one that is regarded as the "gold standard" for bone regeneration: the compact bone.


Challenges of diagnosing and managing pre-fibrotic myelofibrosis: A case-based and practical approach.
Pre-Fibrotic Myelofibrosis is a frequently under-recognised entity that has distinct features separate to those of both Essential Thrombocythaemia and overt Primary Myelofibrosis. Misdiagnosis is relatively common due to subtle differences in bone marrow trephine morphology and multidisciplinary approaches are required. The clinical phenotype and disease course is heterogeneous and hence management approaches tend to vary widely. Although patients may initially be asymptomatic, disease-related complications can include troublesome symptom burdens, increased incidence of both arterial and venous thromboses, haemorrhage, anaemia and an inherent risk of disease evolution to either overt myelofibrosis or blastic phase disease. Specific prognostic tools with high discriminatory power are lacking. Within this review we use case-based approaches to review the current literature, highlight challenges in both diagnostics and disease management and suggest contemporary approaches to improve patient outcomes.


Nail-biting, scab-picking, and tattooing as nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI): A deviant case series analysis of the proposed NSSI disorder diagnostic criteria.
This study explored the boundaries of the proposed diagnostic criteria for nonsuicidal self-injury disorder (NSSID) as outlined in the Conditions for Further Study section of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Fifth Edition. We sought to falsify the exclusion of certain NSSI behaviors from a diagnosis of NSSID (Criterion D), arguing that these exclusions are inconsistent with the broader phenomenology of the disorder outlined in the other criteria. METHOD: We describe three case studies involving NSSI (Case 1: scab-picking; Case 2: nail-biting; Case 3: tattooing) that cannot be diagnosed as NSSID because the behaviors are explicitly listed in Criterion D. Despite exclusion as a relevant NSSI behavior per Criterion D, each examined behavior is consistent with the intentionality, functionality, and distress/impairment of NSSID that represent core features of the disorder. The case studies presented here suggest that Criterion D should be revised or removed from the NSSID criteria.


Recovery from medial prefrontal cortex injury during adolescence: implications for age-dependent plasticity.
Focal cortical injuries generate various behavioral deficits associated with different morphological changes. The age and the area of the injury determine the nature and extent of recovery represented by the level of performance in various behavioral tasks. Previously, we have shown that motor cortex injury in early (but not late) adolescence leads to behavioral deficits that do not recover spontaneously with time. Considering the fact that the pace of brain maturation differs in different brain areas, we undertook to examine the pattern of spontaneous recovery following medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) lesion in early or late adolescence. A battery of motor tasks (postural asymmetry, skilled reaching, sunflower seed manipulation, forepaw inhibition in swimming) was used to investigate the pattern of behavioral recovery following mPFC lesions. Golgi-Cox analysis was used to examine dendritic reorganization of the relevant brain areas. The results indicated that rats perform poorly when receiving mPFC injuries in late adolescence in contrast to when they receive the lesion in early adolescence. Almost opposite pattern of recovery following motor cortex and medial prefrontal injuries in early and late adolescence will be discussed as an age-area dependent model for prognosis of brain injury during adolescence.


Anastrozole (Arimidex) versus tamoxifen as first-line therapy for advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women: survival analysis and updated safety results.
We present an initial survival analysis and an update of the safety data of the North American and Tamoxifen or Arimidex Randomized Group Efficacy and Tolerability (TARGET) double-blind, randomised, multicentre studies which compared anastrozole with tamoxifen as first-line treatment in postmenopausal patients with oestrogen receptor and/or progesterone receptor-positive (ER+/PR+) or receptor-unknown advanced breast cancer (ABC). At a median follow-up of 43.7 months, 56.0% of patients in the anastrozole group and 56.1% of patients in the tamoxifen group had died. The proportion of patients dead at 2 years was 31.1 and 32.0% in the anastrozole and tamoxifen groups, respectively. In the ER+/PR+ subgroup, 55.1 and 55.9% of patients had died and median time to deaths (TTD) were 40.8 and 41.3 months in the anastrozole and tamoxifen groups, respectively. Both agents remained well tolerated, with fewer reports of vaginal bleeding (anastrozole versus tamoxifen, 1.0% versus 2.5%) and thromboembolic events (anastrozole versus tamoxifen, 5.3% versus 9.0%) in the anastrozole group versus the tamoxifen group. Hot flushes and vaginal dryness were reported marginally less in the tamoxifen group compared with the Anastrozole group. Although no improvement in survival was observed, the favourable profile of anastrozole with respect to efficacy (TTP) and tolerability [Cancer 92 (2001) 2247] support the use of anastrozole in advance of tamoxifen as the first-line therapy choice in postmenopausal women with ABC.


Characterization of cytokine-induced hyperalgesia.
Agents which induce symptoms of illness, such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), cause diverse effects including hyperalgesia. While previous studies have examined central pathways mediating LPS hyperalgesia, the initial steps in activating this system remain unknown. Since LPS induces the release of various cytokines and eicosinoids from immune cells, the present series of experiments examined the potential involvement of these substances in LPS hyperalgesia. This work demonstrates that: (a) Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) can produce hyperalgesia following either intraperitoneal or intracerebroventricular injection. In contrast, IL-1 beta delivered intrathecally did not affect pain responsivity. (b) Liver macrophages (Kupffer cells) appear to be critically involved, and relay signals to the brain via hepatic vagal afferents. (c) Both IL-1 beta and tumor necrosis factor appear to be critical mediators of LPS hyperalgesia. In contrast, prostaglandins do not appear to be involved. Taken together, these studies suggest that substances classically thought of as products of the immune system may dynamically enhance pain responsivity via actions either on the hepatic vagus or at central sites.


Effect of the systemic immune-inflammation index on postoperative complications and the long-term prognosis of patients with colorectal cancer: a retrospective cohort study.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common malignant tumors of the digestive tract. Surgery is the main way to cure CRC, but the postoperative complication rate and recurrence rate remain high. The systemic immune-inflammation (SII) index reflects a patient's systemic inflammatory state and immune state. Postoperative recurrence and the occurrence of complications are closely related to the inflammatory state and immune state. Thus, the SII index may have some value in predicting postoperative complications and the long-term prognosis of CRC patients, but relevant studies are currently lacking. The present study sought to examine the effect of the SII index on the postoperative complications and long-term prognosis of patients with CRC. From January 2014 to January 2017, the data of 440 patients with CRC who had been admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University were retrospectively collected, and the patients were equally divided into the high and the low SII groups according to their preoperative SII index levels. The postoperative complication rate and postoperative progression-free survival (PFS) and mortality between the 2 groups were compared. Compared to the low SII group, the incidence of postoperative infection in the high SII group was significantly increased (15.45% vs. 9.09%, P=0.042), mortality was significantly increased at 5 years postoperatively (20.91% vs. 7.27%, P<0.001), and PFS was significantly shortened (P<0.001). The SII index had certain predictive value for postoperative infection in CRC patients, and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.645 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.559-0.731, P=0.001]. The SII index also had certain predictive value for the progression of CRC patients within 5 years of surgery, and the AUC was 0.670 (95% CI: 0.610-0.729, P<0.001). Additionally, the SII index had certain predictive value for death within 5 years of surgery in patients with CRC, and the AUC was 0.660 (95% CI: 0.593-0.726, P<0.001). CRC patients with postoperative infection had a significantly shorter PFS period than those who did not develop postoperative infection (P=0.029). The SII index has certain predictive value for the diagnosis of postoperative infectious complications and the long-term prognosis of CRC patients.


Computational predictions suggest that structural similarity in viral polymerases may lead to comparable allosteric binding sites.
The identification of ligand-binding sites is often the first step in drug targeting and design. To date there are numerous computational tools available to predict ligand binding sites. These tools can guide or mitigate the need for experimental methods to identify binding sites, which often require significant resources and time. Here, we evaluate four ligand-binding site predictor (LBSP) tools for their ability to predict allosteric sites within the Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) polymerase. Our results show that the LISE LBSP is able to identify all three target allosteric sites within the HCV polymerase as well as a known allosteric site in the Coxsackievirus polymerase. LISE was then employed to identify novel binding sites within the polymerases of the Dengue, West Nile, and Foot-and-mouth Disease viruses. Our results suggest that all three viral polymerases have putative sites that share structural or chemical similarities with allosteric pockets of the HCV polymerase. Thus, these binding locations may represent an evolutionarily conserved structural feature of several viral polymerases that could be exploited for the development of small molecule therapeutics.


Rabbit model of ocular indirect photodynamic therapy using a retinoblastoma xenograft.
The goal of this project was to demonstrate the feasibility of coupling the indirect ophthalmoscope laser delivery system with the 690 nm wavelength diode laser used to perform photodynamic therapy (PDT) in the treatment of retinoblastoma. For phase 1, a total of six pigmented rabbits were treated with the indirect laser delivery system. The laser source was provided by the Lumenis Opal 690 nm laser unit, delivered through a 810 nm Indirect ophthalmoscope headpiece and a hand-held 28-diopter indirect lens (1.0 mm spot size). Four rabbits received intravenous verteporfin at doses of 0.43 or 0.86 mg/kg, and two rabbits did not receive verteporfin (controls). A second phase of the study involved eight rabbits using a retinoblastoma xenograft to determine the effect of indirect PDT on subretinal tumors. For phase 1, a total of 20 laser treatments were performed in the right eyes of six rabbits. Laser power levels ranged between 40 and 150 mW/cm2 and treatment duration ranged between 1 and 3 min. In the four rabbits that received verteporfin, focal retinal scars were noted at 40 mW/cm2 and higher power levels. In the two control rabbits that did not receive verteporfin, thermal burns were confirmed at 75 mW/cm2 and higher power levels. Histopathology showed focal retino-choroidal scars at the site of PDT treatment, without evidence of generalized ocular damage. Using the retinoblastoma xenograft, the indirect PDT system was shown to cause areas of tumor necrosis on histopathology. The results of this pre-clinical study suggest verteporfin may be activated in the rabbit retina with the indirect delivery system and the 690 nm laser unit (i.e., Indirect PDT). Using verteporfin, treatment effects were observed at 40-50 mW/cm2 in the rabbit retina, while photocoagulation was achieved at 75 mW/cm2 and higher power levels. Fundoscopic and histopathologic examination of treated areas showed circumscribed areas of retinal damage and a lack of generalized ocular toxicity, suggesting that this modality may represent a safe and localized method for treating intraocular retinoblastoma.


Activation in stored platelet concentrates: correlation between membrane expression of P-selectin, glycoprotein IIb/IIIa, and beta-thromboglobulin release.
By using two distinct measurements of alpha-degranulation (surface P-selectin [alpha-granule membrane protein-140] expression and beta-thromboglobulin [beta-TG] release) and quantitation of glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa surface density, stored platelet concentrates were evaluated to determine a) which method of measuring platelet alpha-granule release was more sensitive in detecting early platelet activation; b) whether Day 1 levels of activation predicted the extent of activation or cell lysis on Day 5 of storage; and c) whether changes in surface GPIIb/IIIa density were primarily dependent on platelet activation. By using samples from paired and unpaired units stored for 1, 3, and 5 days, four observations could be made. 1) A flow cytometric assay for the percentage of P-selectin-positive platelets was more sensitive for early detection of platelet activation than was measurement of beta-TG release. This finding was most likely due to enhanced sensitivity in detecting platelets that had undergone partial alpha-granule release. 2) Total P-selectin expression correlated with beta-TG release, which indicated that the extent of alpha-granule membrane fusion with the external platelet membrane was proportional to the amount of alpha-granule contents released into the supernatant. 3) All of the activation measurements on Day 1 predicted the activation values, but did not predict the degree of cell lysis (measured by lactate dehydrogenase discharge), on Day 5 of storage. 4) Surface GPIIb/IIIa density was increased on the subset of P-selectin-positive platelets as compared with the P-selectin-negative subset at all times during storage, but, within each subset, GPIIb/IIIa surface density did not significantly increase over the time of storage.


[MRI contribution in diagnosis of acute bone infarcts in children with sickle cell disease].
We analyse MRI findings of nine children with sickle cell disease having painful osseous attacks. The diagnosis of vaso-occlusive crisis was confirmed by negative bacteriology. MRI is useful for determining the anatomic site and the extent of acute infarcts. It gives a global view of osseous abnormalities, and contributes to differentiating acute infarcts from acute osteomyelitis.


Freeze-etch study of the teleostean pituitary.
The structure of membranes in the pituitary of several teleostean species was studied with the freeze-etching technique. Nuclear pore density is higher in hormone-secreting than in stellate cells, suggesting a higher rate of nucleo-cytoplasmic interactions in the secretory cells. The perinuclear endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in the MAS-secreting cells has a large number of fenestrae, whereas in the ER whorls of the prolactin-secreting cells the fenestration occurs only rarely. Three different types of membrane specializations are described, presumably related to exo-endocytotic events at the level of the plasmalemma.


Monitoring industrial wastewater by online GC-MS with direct aqueous injection.
An online GC-MS-system for automated monitoring of crude wastewater at a complex chemical production site is presented. The modular system is, in principal, based on commercial equipment, but utilizes a special, two-stage injector, which consists of a splitless vaporization chamber on top of a PTV injector filled with Tenax. This set-up enables direct injection of wastewater. Almost 140 volatile and semi-volatile compounds are calibrated down to 1 mg L(-1), which is sufficient for analysis of the influent of the wastewater-treatment plant. Two instruments analyze alternately, every 20 min, and the instrument cycle time is 40 min. The quantitative results are transferred to a database which is connected to a process-control system. Depending on the nature and concentration of a compound, an alarm can be generated and the wastewater stream can be diverted into an "off spec tank" if necessary. The GC-MS-system operates quasi-continuously with a system availability >98%. Data quality is automatically controlled in each run and by daily analysis of a quality-control sample. The development of a novel stacked PTV-PTV injector design to expand the range of analytes to selected basic compounds is described.


Tridimensional finite element analysis of teeth movement induced by different headgear forces.
This study aimed to simulate the actions of low-pull (LP), high-pull (HP), and combined pull (CP) headgears (HGs) and to analyze tooth movement tendencies through finite element analysis. Tomographic slices of a human maxilla with complete permanent dentition were processed by reconstruction software, and the triangular surface mesh was converted into non-uniform rational B-spline (NURBS) curves. An HG facial bow was also modulated in 3D. The teeth and bone were considered to have isotropic and linear behavior, whereas the periodontal ligament was considered to have non-linear and hyperelastic behavior. Data regarding the application points, directions and magnitudes of forces were obtained from the literature and from a dolichofacial patient with class II, division 1 malocclusion, who was treated with a CP HG. The CP HG promoted 37.1 to 41.1 %, and the HP HG promoted 19.1 to 31.9 % of LP distalization. The HP HG presented the highest intrusion, and the LP HG presented the highest extrusion of the first molar. The LP HG contracted the distal side, and the HP and CP HGs contracted the lingual and distobuccal roots of the second molar to a lesser degree. The LP HG promotes the greatest distalization, followed by the CP and HP HGs; the LP HG causes greater extrusion of the first molar, and the HP HG causes greater intrusion of the first molar. The LP HG causes greater contraction of the second molar than the HP HG.


Identifying common core outcome domains from core outcome sets of musculoskeletal conditions: protocol for a systematic review.
Core outcome sets (COSs) aim to reduce outcome heterogeneity in clinical practice and research by suggesting a minimum number of agreed-upon outcomes in clinical trials. Most COSs in the musculoskeletal field are developed for specific conditions. We propose that there are likely to be common core domains within existing musculoskeletal COSs that may be used as a starting point in the development of future COSs. We aim to identify common core domains from existing COSs and to facilitate the development of new COSs for musculoskeletal conditions. As a secondary aim, we will assess the development quality of these COSs. A systematic review including musculoskeletal COSs. We will search Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) database, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, Cochrane Methodology Register and International Consortium for Health Outcome Measurement (ICHOM). Studies will be included if related to the development of a COS in adults with musculoskeletal conditions and for any type of intervention. Quality will be assessed using the Core Outcome Set-Standards for Development (COS-STAD) recommendations. Data extracted will include scope of the COS, health condition, interventions and outcome domains. Primary outcomes will be all core domains recommended within each COS. We define a common core outcome domain as one present in at least 67% of all COSs. All findings will be summarized and presented using descriptive statistics. This systematic review of COSs will describe the core domains recommended within each musculoskeletal COS. Common domains found may be used in the initial stages of development of future musculoskeletal COSs. PROSPERO CRD42021239141.


Effects of chronic administration of doxorubicin on plasma levels of prostaglandins, thromboxane B2, and fatty acids in rats.
The effects of multiple doses of doxorubicin (DXR) on hematocrit and plasma levels of prostaglandins (PG), thromboxane B2 (TxB2), total lipid, esterified and free fatty acids, and proteins were investigated in male rats. The rats received DXR (2 mg/kg) or vehicle weekly by the subcutaneous route for 2, 4, 8, and 13 weeks and were killed 1 week after their last dose. Another group of rats treated for 13 weeks was sacrificed at 19 weeks, 6 weeks after the last dose. No changes in hematocrit or plasma PG, TxB2, or total levels of fatty acids were noted between control and DXR-treated rats at either 3, 5, or 9 weeks. The hematocrit was slightly depressed from control levels at 14 and 19 weeks. Plasma PGE, PGF2 alpha, and TxB2 were elevated over control levels at 14 and 19 weeks. Plasma 6-keto-PGF1 alpha was increased over the control level only at 19 weeks. Total plasma lipid and esterified fatty acids were highly elevated over control levels at 14 and 19 weeks. Plasma free arachidonic acid was elevated over control levels at 14 and 19 weeks, while levels of other free fatty acids were unchanged. Plasma protein levels were slightly depressed from control levels at 3, 9, and 14 weeks. Elevations of plasma free arachidonic acid, PG, TxB2, esterified fatty acids, and total lipid might be involved in cardiotoxicity and nephrotoxicity found with chronic administration of DXR.


Synergistic effects of nanosecond pulsed plasma and electric field on inactivation of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro.
Nanosecond pulsed atmospheric pressure plasma jets (ns-APPJs) produce reactive plasma species, including charged particles and reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS), which can induce oxidative stress in biological cells. Nanosecond pulsed electric field (nsPEF) has also been found to cause permeabilization of cell membranes and induce apoptosis or cell death. Combining the treatment of ns-APPJ and nsPEF may enhance the effectiveness of cancer cell inactivation with only moderate doses of both treatments. Employing ns-APPJ powered by 9 kV, 200 ns pulses at 2 kHz and 60-nsPEF of 50 kV/cm at 1 Hz, the synergistic effects on pancreatic cancer cells (Pan02) in vitro were evaluated on cell viability and transcellular electrical resistance (TER). It was observed that treatment with ns-APPJ for >2 min disrupts Pan02 cell stability and resulted in over 30% cell death. Similarly, applying nsPEF alone, >20 pulses resulted in over 15% cell death. While the inactivation activity from the individual treatment is moderate, combined treatments resulted in 80% cell death, approximately 3-to-5-fold increase compared to the individual treatment. In addition, reactive oxygen species such as OH and O were identified at the plasma-liquid interface. The gas temperature of the plasma and the temperature of the cell solution during treatments were determined to be near room temperature.


A comparative analysis of amlodipine and felodipine in a military outpatient population: efficacy, outcomes, and cost considerations.
This retrospective study compared the efficacy, tolerability, and cost of two dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers. Charts of patients who had been on continuous antihypertensive therapy with amlodipine or felodipine for at least 6 months were reviewed. Analyses include mean changes in blood pressure, percentage of patients achieving blood pressure (BP) < 140/90 mm Hg, average dose, and cost per day of the two calcium channel blockers, average cost of additional medication, total medication cost per day, and cost to achieve BP control. Eighty-seven percent of amlodipine-treated patients achieved BP control compared with 33% of felodipine-treated patients. Total medication cost to achieve BP control was 0.87 dollars per day for patients on amlodipine compared with 1.79 dollars per day for patients on felodipine. Amlodipine produced BP control in a greater percentage of patients than did felodipine at a lower total cost to achieve BP control. When evaluating the total cost of antihypertensive treatment, the cost of a drug alone can be misleading.


Rotating night shift work is associated with an increased risk of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms among workers in China: A cross-sectional study.
Increasing studies suggest a significant association between night shift work and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity and other metabolic disorders. However, the available evidence of the association of rotating night shift work with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is limited. Herein, we hypothesised a link between the GERD risk and rotating night shift work among workers in China. A total of 2027 workers who completed a comprehensive health checkup were included. Logistic regression was used to investigate the link between rotating night shift work and the risk of GERD symptoms. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the multivariable model's diagnostic value for identifying GERD symptoms among workers. In total, 556 (27.4%) individuals had GERD symptoms among 2027 workers. Multivariate analysis showed five independent factors for GERD: rotating night shift work (OR = 3.66, 95% CI: 2.52-5.40), age (OR = 2.53, 95% CI: 1.67-3.78), smoking (OR = 3.70, 95% CI: 2.63-5.21), Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection (OR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.48-0.96) and obesity (OR = 3.04, 95% CI: 2.43-3.83). A five-variable model based on five independent factors provided an area under a ROC curve (AUROC) of 0.80 (95% CI: 0.78-0.81) for identifying GERD symptoms among workers. Rotating night shift work is independently associated with an increased risk of GERD symptoms. Moreover a five-variable model (rotating night shift work, age, smoking, H pyori infection and obesity) can help identify individuals at high risk for GERD symptoms among workers in China.